Serving Lake Erie’s North Shore Friday April 1, 2011
INSIDE Port Stanley Report The Port Stanley Village Association (PSVA) is holding a rain barrel fundraiser. STORY PAGE 2
Heir to Talbot fortune In 2008, a student of history at Dublin University was researching the family of Thomas Talbot when he discovered that the founder of the Talbot settlement may have left an heir. STORY PAGE 3
Port Burwell Report The question of the evening was how to provide sufficient draft in the Port Burwell harbour to land the submarine Ojibwa. STORY PAGE 4
Central Elgin Officials visit Cleveland Central Elgin meeting with Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority officials about launching a cross-lake ferry service. STORY PAGE 5
Festival of Birds The park’s annual Festival of Birds is April 30 – May 23. The Friends of Point Pelee and Point Pelee National Park welcome "birders" each spring. STORY PAGE 8
Winter on the bay See part 2 in the next edition of The Lake Erie Beacon.
LOOK AHEAD Community Events
Page 6
Classifieds & Service Directory Page 7 Business Roladex
Pages 6 & 8
Lake Erie Yellow Perch and Walleye Catch Limits for 2011 The Lake Erie Committee
number of fish.
Ypsilanti, MI – The Lake Erie Committee, a Binational Board of fishery managers from Michigan, New York, Ohio, Ontario, and Pennsylvania, recommended a 2011 total allowable catch (TAC) of 12.651 million pounds of yellow perch and 2.919 million walleye1. The yellow perch and walleye TACs are similar to last year’s levels. These recommendations are based on extensive biological assessments and analyses by Canadian and American fishery agencies. For both yellow perch and walleye, the committee is moving forward on a revision of fisheries policies and guidelines for the future. The intent is to fully engage all stakeholders throughout that process.
Said Lake Erie Committee chair Don Einhouse of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, “The relative constancy of both the walleye and yellow perch TACs reflects the committee’s interest in providing stability to fisheries as we develop revised walleye and yellow perch harvest policies, with input from stakeholders. We understand that in certain areas, the biological risk at these levels of harvest may increase, but will not threaten the sustainability of the resource as we transition to new policies.”
Yellow perch are allocated in pounds; walleye are allocated by
Yellow Perch Overall, yellow perch stocks in Lake Erie are on the decline, though the stocks are stronger in the lake’s eastern part than in other areas of the lake. For 2011, the Yellow Perch Task
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Given the state of the Lake Erie yellow perch fishery, the committee recommended a 2011 TAC of 12.651 million pounds, a small decrease from last year’s allocation of 13.137 million pounds. The consensus among committee members is that weak year classes may lead to lower allocations in some management units in the future. The five jurisdictions on the lake divide the lakewide allocation of Continued On Page 4
Lake Erie shipwrecks are favourites among divers Shannon M. Nass
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Group estimates the presence of 130 million yellow perch in Lake Erie, a 28% reduction from 2010 and a reduction from more than 400 million fish in the mid-2000s. The decline is due to a weak year class in 2009. The fishery is currently sustained by older fish from some good recruitment during the past decade.
Historic schooner wreck in Lake Erie.
The marine forecast is perfect. Winds are southwest at 5 knots and waves are 1 foot or less. The surface of Lake Erie is almost placid, beckoning a local diver to don his gear and dive 200 feet to the lake floor below. He begins his descent through tepid water, but as he passes through the thermocline the water temperature drops 30 degrees, cold water envelops his body and visibility is limited.
the 1800s is unveiled perfectly preserved in all her glory.
Suddenly, out of the darkness the mast of a ship comes into view, beckoning from its watery grave. The diver's doubt is replaced by exhilaration as the wreckage of a ship from
For centuries, Lake Erie has been a bustling thoroughfare. But weatherrelated sinkings, collisions and other calamities claimed many vessels, leaving the lake floor littered with
their remains. It is estimated that the Great Lakes are home to 8,000 shipwrecks, with approximately 2,000 located in Lake Erie. Most of the wrecks have yet to be discovered, drawing divers from all over the world in hopes of being the first to uncover a lost piece of history. "I can imagine standing at the pier on Lake Erie over 150 years ago. It must have been just a massive traffic jam of ships on the horizon," said Jack Papes, a diver from Akron, Ohio. Papes has been documenting and Continued On Page 7
Page 2 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday April 1, 2011
LETTERS The Green Legion Did you miss the St. Patrick’s party at the Last Post last Saturday afternoon (March 19)? No, it wasn’t a bunch of Celtic’s by the sea, but there were some real “ wanna” be Irish sailors of the “Port”! We saw wonderful Irish dancing girls, listened to some good Celtic tunes on the old squeeze box and even tasted a really good Irish stew made from tasty young lamb. Saturday regulars still gambled on the meat draw and 60/40 for that extra pot of gold! Many thanks go out to all the volunteers at the legion who put together such a great afternoon for all the locals. How lucky are we to be able to walk or stumble home. (Some of us feel obligated to keep the character of “Port Stumbley” alive and well.) Thanks again Last Post Volunteers for another great St. Patrick’s Day! Vicci Coughlin Port Stanley
Ferry…sink or swim? Dear Editor: Sean Hurley wants to put the idea of a ferry for Port Burwell to bed once and for all. I for one, do not accept the premise of Sean’s argument. There is demand. Captain Blais commissioned a feasibility study, which indicated a suitable market for one car and truck ferry. The U.S. side, in fact all four levels of government, cannot wait to facilitate an international crossing between Ohio and Ontario. No ferry operator can be expected to maintain a harbour, let alone restore one. It is the responsibility of the government of the day. The U.S. side has already allocated the funds to accommodate a cross lake ferry. Both sides provided a navigable harbour for the Ashtabula’s 52 year run.
The development of a ferry service would create the ultimate harbour solution, a new harbour, an outer harbour. The presence of a consistent channel capable of hosting deep draught vessels would provide an additional shot in the arm for our local economy, long term. Allan Spicer, Port Burwell
Volunteer fire fighters Hello, did you know that over 70% of firefighters in Canada are volunteers? These brave men and women drop everything at a moment’s notice to protect their communities from fire, saving homes and lives. Many of Ontario’s fire departments are staffed by volunteers who count on their equipment to work so they can do their jobs. Communication devices and life-saving equipment like flashlights, thermal imaging cameras, chemical detectors, and defibrillators are just some examples of the battery-powered tools that firefighters use to protect the communities they serve. This is why the Canadian Volunteer Services Association has partnered with Duracell to support Canada’s volunteer fire fighters. Through the new Power Those Who Protect Us campaign, Canadians can support volunteer firefighters by purchasing specially-marked AA20 packs of Duracell batteries. For every pack sold, Duracell will add two batteries to a donation that will be divided among volunteer fire departments across Canada. To see which volunteer fire departments in Ontario have already signed up, visit www.duracell.ca/protect. Robyn Hunt , Porter Novelli Toronto
Published by Publisher/Editor Kettle Creek Publishing Ltd. Andrew Hibbert andrew@lebeacon.ca 204 Carlow Road Advertising Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C5 Linda Hibbert linda@lebeacon.ca Gloria Wilson gloria@lebeacon.ca Telephone: 519 782-4563
PORT STANLEY REPORT Andrew Hibbert
Rain Barrel Fundraiser The Port Stanley Village Association (PSVA) is holding a rain barrel fundraiser. They are doing this with the support of the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority and the Municipality of Central Elgin. Proceeds will be put towards future harbour developments as Central Elgin’s new harbour lands are cleaned up and prepared for use over the coming years.
barrels in the Olmsteads building, next to the bridge on the west side of the Port Stanley Harbour for several days between delivery and their sale date. Council has noted the environmental benefits of water conservation. The Association is planning to sell the rain barrels on the same day as the Legion Community Yard Sale in May 15th but you can pre-order online at www.rainbarrel.ca/portstanley starting April 5th. Barrels are $60 each (compare at over $100). Each rain barrel includes a filter basket, overflow and interconnectivity outlet, overflow hose, nipple and spigot. Full event details can be viewed at www.psva.ca
ACO to tour Port Stanley Serge Lavoie secretary of the St. Thomas-Elgin Architectural Conservancy (AC)) announced that their executive committee will conduct a tour of Port Stanley’s the historic downtown core on Tuesday, April 19 @ 7 pm. Their Annual General Meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 17 @ 7pm in St. Thomas. This will include a presentation by Paul Baldwin on noted local architect Robert Findlay. Port Stanley Village Association President Nigel Howcroft met with the ACO at the end of March to discuss the concept of a Heritage Conservation District for the core area of Port Stanley.
Spearheading the effort is PSVA Vice President Eric Salin. Eric says “whether it be a splash pad, pertinent repair or an amphitheatre, the PSVA is committed to make these things happen for the Village and the people of Port Stanley”. Eric believes that “not only will you contribute to water conservation in our fragile ecosystem but you will save water costs at home by watering your plants with rain water!” The barrels will be available of Sunday May 15th at the Port Stanley Olmstead Building across from the legion. On the day of barrel pick-up, enjoy live music and lunch. The Port Stanley Village Association was given permission by Cental Elgin Council to store rain
Port Stanley Clean Up Day April 21 In partnership with the Port Stanley Public School, the Kettle Creek Conservation Area, the Municipality of Central Elgin and The Wharf Restaurant, the Port Stanley Village Association (PSVA) has organized a Clean Up Day to take place on April 21 beginning at 1 PM. The PSVA will work with students from Port Stanley Public School to clean up the Berm and other areas of the village. We are hoping that volunteers from the community will assist beginning while the children available (from 1-3 pm) and carrying on throughout the afternoon. Joe Gordon of the Kettle Creek Continued On Page 6
Fax: 519 782-4725 Email: beacon@lebeacon.ca
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The Lake Erie Beacon is a community newspaper published every second Friday by Kettle Creek Publishing Ltd. Over 5800 copies are delivered by Canada Post to homes, apartments and businesses along the north shore of Lake Erie. The Beacon is also available through Variety Stores, Restaurants, Inns and B&B’s in Erieau, Glencoe, Blenheim, Wardsville, Tilbury, Dutton, West Lorne, Rodney, Talbotville, St. Thomas, and Port Stanley bringing our distribution to 7200. 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. Letters to the editor 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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The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday April 1, 2011 • Page 3
Heir to Talbot fortune found Allan Kirk A simple DNA test has made Victoria Pollard $50 million richer. And it’s a story that will change the history books forever. In 2008, a student of history at Dublin University was researching the family of Thomas Talbot when he discovered that the founder of the Talbot settlement may have left an heir. Andy Pipkin was preparing a doctoral dissertation on the Irish aristocracy when he stumbled across a treasure trove of documents. “The first clue we had known for a long time – that a ‘Thomas Talbot’ had been married at Dublin in 1799. But it had
farmland. For each settler that Talbot placed on a 50 acre parcel of land, Talbot received 200 acres for himself. Yet the land gained to Talbot in this way was often in isolated areas far from the colonization roads that had been constructed. Therefore, while his holdings were vast, it would be years before the settlement would be large enough for Talbot to be able to develop his own land and make a profit. Adding to the confusion was Talbot’s habit of poor record keeping. Often the only record of settlement was a pencil scrawl on a map. Officials in the Capital of York (now Toronto) were often frantic at not knowing what Talbot was up to. In 1850, an elderly Talbot split his estate between his nephew, Captain Richard Airey and his servant George Macbeth. No part of the will mentioned any other parties, nor did it specifically exclude any other heirs. And what exactly Talbot owned, and who got what was never fully put to rest. After the will was settled, there was still land not accounted for. It was assumed that Talbot owned it – but the heirs could not prove ownership.
And that’s where things get interesting.
Dr. Andy Pipkin Dublin University always been assumed that it was a different person from the man who founded the Talbot settlement in 1803. This new information proves that Talbot married before he ever left Ireland for the new world.”
The issue of these ‘orphaned’ lands became a problem as development of Southern Ontario expanded in the 1860’s. At Confederation, crown lands and ‘other lands’ were transferred to the federal government. Twenty years later crown lands became a responsibility – and a liability – to the provinces. The government was reluctant to settle families on to land that they did not hold clear title to. The
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Pabst Blue Ribbon “Killer” Pool Ms. Victoria Pollard Heiress to the Talbot Estate The revelation comes in the form of a diary entry from the Anglican priest that officiated at the ceremony. Other documents include a love letter written by Talbot to his future bride. That marriage produced at least one child, and a line that survives to this day. Using Census data, Dr. Pipkin was able to track the family lineage to Ms. Pollard who is a mother of 6 and resides in council housing on the outskirts of Luton, England. But Ms. Pollard’s windfall may come at the expense of local taxpayers due to a strange twist of history. At its height, Thomas Talbot’s land holdings stretched over 29 townships and 1000’s of acres of land. By 1821, Talbot owned 65,000 acres of prime
heirs of the Talbot estate could not prove title either. To get around this road block, an act of the provincial legislature gave the land to the local municipalities to make up for the loss in property taxes and to encourage the building of roads – with the proviso that the land would revert to the rightful owner if ever identified.
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Enter Ms. Pollard. With the discovery of the “Talbot maps” in the Ontario archives in the 1960’s, a much better picture of who owned what has been known for 40 years. But by then there was no one to claim ownership.
Now the bill is due Much of the land was sold for as Continued On Page 5
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Page 4 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday April 1, 2011 and Michigan 0.170 million fish. The walleye fisheries of eastern Lake Erie remain outside the quota management area and harvest limits in that area are established by Ontario, Pennsylvania, and New York.
Lake Erie Catch Limits for 2011 Continued From Page 1 yellow perch based on allocation formulas by management unit. For 2011, Ontario’s allocation is 6.182 million pounds, Ohio’s allocation is 4.991 million pounds, and Michigan’s allocation is 0.188 million pounds. New York and Pennsylvania will receive 0.246 million pounds and 1.044 million pounds, respectively. In 2010, actual lakewide yellow perch harvest was 9.69 million pounds or 74% of the TAC. 2
Walleye The Lake Erie Committee recommended a binational TAC for walleye in 2011 of 2.919 million fish, compared to the TAC of 2.200 million fish in 2010. Actual walleye harvest in 2010 was approximately 2.0 million fish, or 91% of the TAC. The Committee’s Walleye Task Group— comprising scientists and field biologists—reported that walleye recruitment in recent years has been moderate, particularly the 2007 year class. Fish from the 2007 year class and the exceptional 2003 hatch remain the major contributors to the fishery. The increased TAC recommendation for 2011 reflects the committee’s consensus that walleye status in Lake Erie appears better than previously forecasted. The TAC is recommended by the Lake Erie Committee and is allocated to Ohio, Michigan and Ontario by an area-based sharing formula of walleye habitat within each jurisdiction in the western and central basins of the lake. Under a 2011 TAC of 2.919 million fish, Ohio will be entitled to 1.492 million fish, Ontario 1.257 million fish,
Said Committee Chair Don Einhouse, “The Lake Erie Committee is aware that the 2011 TAC recommendation, while an increase from last year, is still lower than TACs of five to ten years ago and substantially lower from TACs of the 1980s and 1990s. Abundance of walleye in Lake Erie today is estimated to be 21.2 million fish, compared to highs of between 70 and 80 million fish in the past.” Einhouse added: “The committee remains committed to promoting sustainable walleye fisheries while allowing for the careful allocation of the fish based on annual biological assessments, modeling, and deliberation among the jurisdictions, with continued input from our valued stakeholders.”
Lake Erie Committee The Lake Erie Committee comprises fishery managers from Michigan, New York, Ohio, Ontario and Pennsylvania. The
PORT BURWELL REPORT
Money was borrowed to study the environmental, manure management and water analysis implications of large-scale hog production. Several prospective companies were interviewed. Big Sky Corp, was selected to
Allan Spicer
Decision Time On March 30, The Municipality of Bayham held a public meeting at the Vienna Community Centre. The question of the evening was how to provide sufficient draft in the Port Burwell harbour to land the submarine Ojibwa. The sub’s arrival is anticipated this summer. One time dredging cost is estimated at $400,000. The Harbour Committee has proposed the purchase of a dredge for $700,000 with various financing options.
The little town that could, we could too! committee’s work is facilitated by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, a Canadian and U.S. agency on the Great Lakes. Each year the committee recommends a total allowable catch for walleye and yellow perch. Total allowable catch represents the number or weight of fish that can be caught by sport and commercial fishers without putting the stocks at risk. The individual agencies implement the recommended total allowable catch. For more information, visit the Lake Erie Committee online at www.glfc.org/lec.
All across the prairies, rural communities have been disappearing with the mechanization and consolidation of grain farms. Grain terminals and rail lines serving them, the lifeblood of these communities, are being closed. Country Guide (03/15/11) describes how the small town of Ogema Sask., 140 km due south of Regina, bucked the trend. Population had declined from 360 to 292. The local school enrolment was down to 53 students. It seemed that the writing was on the wall. In 1989, an ad hoc economic development committee got together to generate ideas to save the town. Hog farm expansion was rampant
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Workers were imported from the Philippines. The off shore workers and their families were welcomed with open arms, Ogema today has seen its population rebound to 360, There are 103 students at the 1-12 school. An 8,000 sq. ft. grocery store thrives. An 11,000 NAPA Auto Parts store has been built. A famous Spa with six registered massage therapists draws people from afar. Minor Hockey teams have been revitalized and a Senior team is back. There is a property boom projecting population growth to 770 within ten years. There is a need to invest in local infrastructure to serve the now growing community.
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operate a sow barn for 2,500 hogs. Big Sky purchased the assessments gathered by SCHC. In the end, the hog barn was constructed to house 5,000 hogs. The 55 jobs created were a huge boon to a community on the ropes.
Continued On Page 7
T H E L A K E E R I E B E AC O N
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The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday April 1, 2011 • Page 5
Heir to Talbot fortune found Continued From Page 3 little as $3 an acre. That doesn’t seem like much, but the interest has been piling up since 1854. Exactly who is going to pay Ms. Pollard is not totally clear. If left up to local taxpayers, the bill could be astounding. The 29 townships in question could have to pay an average of $1.3 million each. Yet neither the provincial or federal government is eager to step up and offer help. And while taxpayers may be left wishing that Andy Pipkin had never
Central Elgin officials visit Cleveland
opened this can of worms, historians will have a field day. The diary entry that Mr. Pipkin discovered did not directly prove that Talbot was married but the wedding is described as “…A shocking display. The drunken bridegroom lacking all civility and conducting himself in a shamefully arrogant manner…” “As soon as I read that passage, I knew that we must be dealing with the same man”, says Pipkin. As for Ms. Pollard, she is unfazed by her newfound wealth. She is planning to buy a new tracksuit and start smoking a better brand of cigarettes. When asked if she will one day visit the area, Ms. Pollard declined saying, “Just bugger off and give me my dough”.
The Corporation of the Municipality of
Talks progressing on cross-lake ferry service between Cleveland and Port Stanley, Ontario Press Release March 30, 2011 A delegation of officials from Central Elgin, Ontario spent last Friday in Cleveland meeting with Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority officials and others about launching cross-lake ferry service. Officials from both sides are eager to explore the opportunity and agreed to craft a memorandum of understanding outlining their shared vision and next steps. If a ferry service results it would begin on a pilot basis, operating between Cleveland and Port Stanley with a focus on tourism and other passenger demand. “We were quite pleased with our discussions and impressed by Cleveland’s many tourist attractions,” said Central Elgin Mayor Bill Walters. “I believe this proposed ferry service would create a wonderful international gateway and cultivate new opportunities for travel and economic development.” Joining Mayor Walters for the Cleveland visit were: Central Elgin Councillors Russell Matthews and Dan McNeil, Don Leitch, the municipality’s chief administrative officer, and Kate Burns, marketing & communications coordinator for Elgin County. The Municipality of Central Elgin is a rural municipality comprised of a number of communities, including Port Stanley. Port Authority President and CEO Will Friedman reopened ferry discussions with Central Elgin officials last fall. The service had been contemplated for years, but did not materialize, in part because the Canadian government had not completed a long-awaited transfer of the waterfront property to local control. Initially the concept was to create a service primarily serving as a short cut for cross-border trucking. The focus is now on tourism, recreation and other passenger demand, with only limited truck traffic. That would allow for a smaller more fuel-efficient ferry that could accommodate passengers and cars as well as bicycles and tour buses. The concept fits with a broader vision for the uses of Port Stanley’s harbor. Ferry service could also result
The Lake Express shown above is a midspeed catamaran style ferry that runs between Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Muskegon, Michigan carrying primarily tourist traffic. It has operated since 2004. in increased tourism for other Ontario destinations including London, St. Thomas, Kitchener-Waterloo and Stratford – as well as other destinations in Northeast Ohio. “Friday’s meeting was a great start toward creating a possible new border crossing connecting downtown Cleveland and Ontario,” Friedman said. “We still have a good deal of work to do to make the service a reality. But we share the same goals and vision for the service – and see terrific opportunities for leisure and business travel by boat that we believe residents of Northeast Ohio and Ontario would embrace.” Friedman and Mayor Walters said a Memorandum of Understanding would establish guiding principles and set out next steps. During their visit to Cleveland, the Central Elgin officials also met with other local officials and community leaders, toured downtown Cleveland and heard a presentation from HMS Global Maritime, Inc., a ferry service management company based in New Albany, Indiana. Gary Seabrook, HMS executive vice president, showcased the type of vessel that could most efficiently be used; mid-speed catamaran with a large passenger cabin, an open air deck and a vehicle deck for up to 50 cars and a limited number of trucks and buses. This type of vessel is in widespread use around the globe due to its very high level of capacity in relation to its size as well as fuel efficiency, ease of maintenance and acceptable crossing speed. The vessel can be designed to be very green by today’s standards. “This type of vessel provides a mini-cruise experience, with access to internet, movies and comfortable seating,” Seabrook said. “It hits the sweet spot between large conventional ferries and large high-speed crafts that have higher operating costs and require deeper harbors.”
WASTE RECYCLING STRATEGY/WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN
Register for Public Workshop – We Want your Input The Township of Malahide, the Municipality of Bayham, and the Municipality of Central Elgin are jointly completing a Waste Recycling Strategy and Waste Management Plan (Plan). This joint approach has been taken to consider waste management planning on a broader scale and because it is more cost effective. As a part of this Plan, we will be consulting with the residents to get your thoughts and ideas. This consultation will include an on-line survey and public meetings. The first public workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, April 27, 2011 at 7:00 pm. In order to organize the workshop, we are asking interested participants to pre-register by calling the Municipal Office at 519-6314860 or emailing civiccentre@centralelgin.org . The municipalities have retained environmental consultants 2cg (www.2cg.ca), out of London, to assist us with this project. Currently, the municipalities primarily offer garbage and blue box collection and depot days for household hazardous wastes and large items. The current waste diversion rates range from 1030%. The Province’s waste diversion goal is 60%, however, very few municipalities in Ontario have yet to achieve this goal. The intent of this project is to review the current waste management systems and develop a Plan for the next 20 years. There are a number of questions that need to be addressed as a part of the Plan development, including this key question: 1. What is an appropriate waste diversion rate target for the 3 municipalities? The answers to the following questions will help answer the key question: 2. Can the existing programs be enhanced or are completely new programs required? 3. What types of new programs could be added to the current waste management system that could reduce waste disposal and improve waste diversion; and 4. Should each municipality continue to operate its own garbage and recycling programs or is it worth working together to operate and manage one garbage and recycling program? To start with, and on an ongoing basis throughout the project, please feel free to share your thoughts with the project team by emailing: RJohnson@malahide.ca Rob Johnson, Township of Malahide KKruger@bayham.on.ca Kyle Kruger, Municipality of Bayham Lloyd Perrin, Municipality of Central Elgin LPerrin@centralelgin.org RAIN BARRELS FOR SALE
Do Your Part to Conserve Water Central Elgin supports efforts to conserve water - a resource that we all take for granted. One thing that each homeowner can do to reduce water consumption is to use a rain barrel to catch rainwater from their eaves troughs. For this reason, Central Elgin is supporting the efforts of the Port Stanley Village Association to sell rain barrels at a cost of $60 each. Barrels can be pre-ordered and picked up on Sunday, May 15th. For more info, visit http://www.psva.ca/PSVA.ca/Rain_Barrel.html .
Tender PW-11-007 Fine Grass Cutting 2011 The Municipality of Central Elgin invites bids for the supply of all labour, equipment, and materials necessary for the performance of the 2011 Fine Grass Cutting Program. For further information, visit www.centralelgin.org. Tenders will be received until 11:00 am on Thursday, April 14, 2011. Tenders may be obtained from Lloyd Perrin, Director of Physical Services, 519-631-4860 Ext 277 or lperrin@centralelgin.org . The Municipality may not accept the lowest or any other tender.
Tender Pw-11-014 2011-2012 Pavement Marking Program The Municipality of Central Elgin invites bids for the supply of all materials, equipment, labour, supervision, traffic control and all things necessary to complete the work as described for the Municipality of Central Elgin, Township of Malahide, and the City of St. Thomas. For further information, visit www.centralelgin.org . Tenders will be received until 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 12, 2011. Tenders may be obtained from Lloyd Perrin, Director of Physical Services, 519-631-4860 Ext 277 or lperrin@centralelgin.org . The Municipality may not accept the lowest or any other tender.
Page 6 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday April 1, 2011
North Shore Community Events F E S T I V A L S
PORT STANLEY 2011
Port Stanley Library 782-4241 304 Bridge St. Mon, Tues, Thurs, 10 - 8:30 Fri 1 - 5, Sat 9 - 1. Closed April 22 for Good Friday & April 25 for Easter Monday Adult Book Club April 19th & 28th 7 pm. Preregister. Kid’s Korner Monday Nights from 5-6:45 pm. Must be grade one or older. Register at the library. Spring card stamping with Adriana Van Boven Monday, April 4th 10-12 $5 10 per class, pre-register. PD Day at the Library Friday April 8th, Come and play the Wii. Port Stanley/Sparta Girl Guides Youth Dance (grades 4-8) Port Stanley Arena upstairs, Thursday April 7th, 2011 (PD Day is on Fri 8th) 7 pm - 10 pm $5.00 at the door *Sponsored by the Port Stanley/Sparta Girl Guides Donna 519 6378448. Port Stanley Community Choir Spring Concert "It's The 70's" Sunday April 17 2:30 & 7:30 pm Port Stanley Festival Theatre Admission tickets $5 Call Judy 519 782-3498 or Evelyn 519 782-3919. Port Stanley & Community 55+ Club Meets every Monday from 1:30 -4 pm to play Euchre at the Port Stanley Arena Everyone over 55 is welcome. For information call 519-631-6504 or 519-782-4801. Port Stanley Volunteer Gardeners Annual Geranium Drive. The Gardeners raise money to buy and plant flowers for our public gardens. Please order your Geraniums directly from them to support their good work Call 519 782-4148. Cost are $2.25 per plant with 6 colours to choose from. Port Stanley Heritage Port meets at 2 pm on the FOURTH Thursday of each month in the Festival Theatre Building Harbour View Room. For further details call 782-4532. Port Stanley United Church 239 Colborne St. Service of Worship at 11 am followed by a time of fellowship. Come join us. Christ Anglican Church Beef or Turkey Pies are now available. $3.00 each. Call the church 519 782-3122 to place an order. Christ Anglican Church Sunday Morning Service, 9:30 a.m. with Eucharist. 283 Colborne St. We invite all to join in worship with us. Coffee follows downstairs. St. John's Presbyterian Church Tom Jeffrey Pastor. Sunday Service of Worship 10 am followed By Fellowship Hour. The Door is always open. Why not join us? St. John's Presbyterian Church Youth Group will be discussing how we can help to protect our environment from pollution. You can make a difference. Meet at the church Fri, April 15, 7-9pm. The Optimist Club of Port Stanley Minor Ball last Registration Date Saturday April 9, 2011 10am to 12Noon at Port Stanley Arena. Port Stanley Legion Branch #410 Monday Closed, Tues.& Wed. 2-10, Thurs. 2-7, Fri. 2-10, Sat. 2-7, and Sunday 12-6. Port Stanley Legion Branch #410 Don’t forget the Legion offers the following: Seniors: Bridge, Tues. night, Euchre: Wed. night Legion Darts Tues, Men’s 7:30, Fri. Mixed 7:30 pm Saturday Afternoon Meat Draws 3-5 pm Port Stanley Legion Bottle Returns Mon & Thurs- Closed, Tues, Wed., Fri, Sat 12-4 pm.
PORT BURWELL/VIENNA 2011
St. Paul’s Port Burwell /Vienna Sunday Church Services St. Paul's P.B./Vienna United 11:00 am Port Burwell Trinity Anglican 11:15 am Port Burwell Lighthouse Gospel Church 10:45 am Port Burwell /Vienna United Church Indoor Yard Sale, Saturday, April 16 th. 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Port Burwell Legion, Wellington Street, don’t forget the Legion is serving breakfast and would like to see you there. Ottervalley Naturalists meet the second Monday of each month. All levels of interest are welcome, especially young people. Call Ron 519-874-1343 for meeting location. Photographers of the Otter Valley (POV) meets the last Monday of the month at 7 pm at the Bayham Public Library in Straffordville. All are welcome, bring your camera, and feel free to bring photos either printed or on a flash drive. Call Sean at 519-200-9319 for info.
DUTTON 2011
KNOX-StAndrew's Presbyterian Church Interdenominational Easter events Maundy Thursday Communion Service,April 21st, 7:30pm, 167 Nancy Street, Dutton Good Friday Service, April 22nd, 9:30 am St Peter's Anglican Church, Lakeview Line,Tyrconnel Easter Sunrise Service, April 24th,7am at Pearce Park, Lakeview Line, followed by Breakfast at St John's
The Lake Erie Beacon 204 Carlow Road Port Stanley, Ontario N5L 1C5 Phone: (519) 782-4563
&
E V E N T S
United Church, Nancy Street, Dutton. Easter Sunday Service, April 24th,10:30am Knox-St. Andrew's Presbyterian, Everyone welcome to all events contact: 519 762-2965
DEXTER 2011
Dexter United Church Dexter Line. Service of Worship at 9:15 am followed by a time of fellowship. Small community church made up of people with a big heart! We would love to have you join us.
EAGLE 2011
Eagle Community Centre Spring Craft Sale Sun., May 29 10am-4pm Eagle Community Centre FREE admit - Donations accepted for Hall upkeep. Many unique vendors...always something new!
FINGAL 2011
Fingal United Church Service of Worship at 9:15 am followed by a time of fellowship. Small community church made up of people with a big heart! We would love to have you join us.
LAWRENCE STATION 2011
Lawrence Station Hall Breakfast, Sunday, April 3, 8:30 am - 1 pm. Enjoy bacon, sausages, eggs pancakes, toast with jam, and coffee!. $6/adult and $2.50 children 5-10 years old.
SHEDDEN 2011
Shedden Library Hours: Tues. 2:30-8:30, Thurs. 2-5, Fri. 10 - 5, Sat. 2 - 5 764-2081 Shedden Library Preschool Story Time, Ages up to 6 yrs accompanied by an adult. Fridays from 11 am - 12 noon, April 1st - June 24. No class April 22nd for Good Friday. Shedden Library Friday April 8th, Come and play the Wii. Shedden Library Help decorate the Library for Elgin County’s 75th Anniversary. Shedden Library Elgin County Museum Display, Southwold’s Harvest of Memories at the Library.
SPARTA 2011
Sparta Community Centre Dancercise. A fun way to exercise. Monday 7 - 8:30 p.m. The cost is $5.00 per night, featuring salsa, jazz and tap dancing. Call Gayle Maurer (519-775-2574) for more information or just show up on a Monday. Sparta Stitchers Every Tuesday from 1 - 4 pm at the Sparta Community Hall. We quilt, tat, knit, embroider, smock, crotchet, etc. Everyone welcome. Cost is $5. per session. Come learn a new skill. Call Sally Martyn (519-775-2292) for more information or just show up. Easter Bunny is visiting Sparta April 16th and 17th, from 12 to 3 in the side room of the Sparta House Tea Room. Have your picture taken . Donations to the Caring Cupboard. Let's hope it stops snowing by then so he doesn't have to borrow Santa's sleigh.
Port Stanley Report Continued From Page 2 Conservation Authority has committed the KCCA to provide trucks, gloves, and some instructions concerning potentially hazardous materials. Central Elgin will provide dumpsters and a port-a-potty. The Wharf Restaurant will provide hot dogs and pop. Depending on how much we get done by the time we are all exhausted, we will decide on the day whether the effort will spill over to Earth Day, April 22 as well. Watch out for more details closer to the date for the event.
Tourist Cabins Proposed for Port Stanley A public meeting will be held on Monday April 18, 2011 at the Elgin County building to present a zoning by-law amendment to permit ten tourist cabins east of the Green Roof Restaurant at 4980 Sunset Road under a temporary use by-law for a period of up to three years. The applicant wishes to service the cabins with a sewage holding tank while approvals are sought for a sewage force main to service the individual property.
Chili Cookoff a fun fundraiser for the Lioness Friday March 25th saw another night of festivities at the refurbished Port Stanley Arena and Community
ST. THOMAS 2011
Royal Canadian Legion -- 24 John St. Quilts on Parade, April 16 1 pm, Admission $5 p.p. Celebrate our 10th Anniversary -- The Elgin Nimble Thimble Quilt Guild -- Advance tickets 519 -866-3955 or 519 - 6441407or 519-762-2990. Dispose of electronic waste safely at The CASO Station at 750 Talbot St, behind Giant Tiger, April 23, from 9 am to 12 noon. There will be a collection bin to dispose of electronic waste safely. To finish off the day, volunteers will be cleaning the railway lands between the station and the museum, so please join us.
UNION 2011
Union Community Centre PD Day on April 8th from 9 - 4 p.m. Call to register by April 2, 519-631-3840 or Joy at 519-633-6403. Union Community Centre Babysitting Course April 16th 9 - 3 p.m. and April 29th - 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. Instructor: Joy Dawdy Call to register by April 11th 519-631-3840 or 519-633-6403 Union Community Centre Family Easter Event April 23rd 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. - No Cost Easter egg hunt, crafts, Visit from the Easter Bunny and performance by "Puppet Folk" - sponsored by the Union South Yarmouth Optimist Club.
Peoples choice Left Green Roof Restaurant, Port Stanley Foodland and Kettle Creek Inn. centre, where the Port Stanley Lioness Club hosted the 16th Annual Great Chili Cook Off. The event was well attended with plenty of prizes and draws for children and adults. 12 participating chefs created a tremendous variety of chili flavours ranging from sweet to extra spicy. It’s truly amazing that you can take the common bean and create so many different aromas and tastes.
The Port Stanley Community Food Bank at Christ Anglican Church Tues. & Thurs.10 am Noon. The food bank is open the third week of the month. If you are able to contribute, please drop off non-perishable items in the Foodbank Box at Foodland or call 519 782-3122 for pick-up. For cheque donations please send to: Port Stanley Foodbank c/o Christ Church, 283 Colborne St. Port Stanley, On. , N5L 1A9. Cheques payable to Christ Church with Foodbank in memo section please.
Patrons were asked to taste each selection and judge which they preferred for flavour and which had the best presentation. As well a panel of three judges, Linda Hibbert, Dr. John Hofhuis and Jimmy Colbeck were kept busy tasting the entries from contestants around the village.
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 please contact us at:
The judges awards were, First Prize: The Legion Branch 410, Second Prize: The Port Stanley Youth Group, Third Prize: The Pierside Pub And Grill. The People Choice Awards went to, First Prize: The Green Roof Restaurant, Second Prize: Port Stanley Foodland, Third Prize: The Kettle
519 782-4563 or linda@lebeacon.ca
Creek Inn. The awards for Best Table Presentation went to, First Prize: Russell House Apparel, Second Prize: Port Stanley Foodland, Third Prize: The Pierside Pub. An estimated 200 adults and children came to sample the chili and enjoy the entertainment. The Girl Guides along with clowns from the Shriners helped keep the kids busy with colouring contests and making balloon animals. Proceeds from the Chili Cook Off got to community groups and services in Port Stanley and area.
Busy Ladies Only one day later on Saturday and Sunday of March 26 & 27 the Lioness were busy again with their annual Pancake Breakfast held at Palmers Maple Syrup farm on Lake Line Road. An estimated 700 adults and 200 children came for breakfast, that would be about 3000 pancakes.
PSTR Looking for volunteers! From a recent PSTR Newsletter: Over 27 years ago the L&PS rail line from St. Thomas to Port Stanley was saved from destruction by a group of volunteers who saw a future for the seven miles of abandoned rail. Many have kept the rail line alive for train rides since those early days by working and helping to maintain the right of way and equipment for the enjoyment of train rides. The many have become few over the years and the future health of the PSTR is in need of a transfusion of new blood. For 2011 the directors have reduced the operating days after careful study of rider habits to reduce the expense and crew needs. However the need for more volunteer help is greater than ever. Many of our volunteers are still committed but for various reasons are unable to devote the time to help as they once did. Here in Ontario and elsewhere in Canada the endemic abandonment of rail lines is distressing to those of us who enjoy trains. If you are of this mind then come help us keep the PSTR on the rails. We are scheduling a volunteer information meeting for April 16th in the dinning car at 9:30 am. Come join us and learn all the exciting information for 2011. Train ride to follow. An additional meeting will be held later for those who can’t make this one. TBA “All Aboard” Generally work days are on Saturdays but other days are also available. For train operating days & times please consult our web pages. Send an E mail to any of the directors listed: Mike McIlwaine 519 326 2166 lstc@sympatico.ca – Al Howlett 519 455 7527 alhowlett2424@execulink.com – Al Montgomery 519 773 8286 afmontg@amtelecom.net – Dan Vernackt 519 637 0827 danvernackt@sympatico.ca If your interest is train crewing Bill Turvey is your contact 519 631 0936 mariebill@golden.net
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday April 1, 2011 • Page 7 communities in decline. The Spirit of Ogema prevailed.
Port Burwell Report Continued From Page 4 Local farmers snapped up a CP rail line, now under the auspices of the Ogema Heritage Railway Association. An antique locomotive will serve as a tourist attraction to provide summer jobs for local young people. The town of Ogema participated in a global liveable community competition recently, coming away with a silver medal for Most Liveable Community and a gold for Heritage Management. This little Saskatchewan community, with quite limited natural assets in the middle of nowhere, should be an inspiration to rural Ontario
The Port Burwell Harbour was first developed by a private consortium. The new Bayham Council appears to have a whole community attitude and a willingness to invest in our harbour. Surely a community of nearly 7,000, with priceless natural assets and a rich heritage, can develop a can do attitude. The time has passed for petty squabbles and insular attitudes. The shot gun political amalgamation has been an unmitigated disaster. We need a new amalgamation of spirit, creativity and cooperation in Bayham, to capitalize on our bountiful assets, to create a thriving community with a quality of life, bar none.
North Shore Community Classified Serving over 7000 Homes, Apartments, Farms & Businesses AUTO REPAIRS Auto Repairs of all kinds For all auto Parts & Service, motors & transmission parts for most vehicles please call: McGregor Auto Parts, 44267 Elm Line, St Thomas 519 631-4835
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Thank you to everyone who helped celebrate my 85th Birthday. I enjoyed all the cards, best wishes and birthday hugs.
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LEGION EVENTS Yard & Craft Sale Sunday May 15, 2011 Breakfast 9:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. Yard Sale 9:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. Tables Cost 6 FT. - $12:00 8 Ft. - $15.00 Limited Tables Available Contact Paul Caldwell 519-782-3189 or Legion 519-782-3118
Smart Serve Certification a requirement of employment. Send Resume to Port Stanley Legion, Br. 410 310 George St., Port Stanley Ontario, N5L 1C5 Attn: President Ron Hillman
POSITION AVAILABLE Commissioned Sales Position Available. We are looking for a creative sales person familiar with marketing and advertising. If you enjoy working with people and would like to work in the St. Thomas area please call or forward your resume to: The Lake Erie Beacon 204 Carlow Road Port Stanley, Ontario N5L 1C5 519 782-4563
Request for Proposals Part-time Administrative Position The Port Stanley Business Improvement Area (BIA) is looking for an individual to provide contracted, parttime administrative services. Interested candidates should submit a three-page or less proposal outlining their qualifications, experience and expected hourly fees to provide the following support: taking minutes at meetings; organizing and maintaining all files, paperwork and correspondence; room and meeting arrangements; basic event research (e.g., web searches, vendor contacts); regularly maintaining/updating the BIA's Facebook and Twitter accounts; and, other related duties. Responsibilities would generally require between 8 and 10 hours of work each week with a flexible work schedule. Please submit your proposal to: Port Stanley BIA 350 Edith Cavell Blvd. Port Stanley, ON N5L 1E2 or via email to carolgates@gtsportstanley.ca by April 15th, 2011
Lake Erie shipwrecks
are "preservationists." The few instances when artifacts were taken were met with outrage in the diving community.
Continued From Page 1
"People are pretty much playing by the same rules. They'll keep their hands off the wreck and keep it as they found it," said Stoebe. "That's a big draw, because if you take stuff off, the next person won't be able to see it."
photographing the wrecks of the Great Lakes for the past 10 years and has visited nearly 120 of them. He's traveled all over the world to dive to shipwrecks, but he prefers the ones close to home. "People have asked me, if you could have an all-expense paid trip to anywhere on the planet, where would you go," said Papes. "I tell them, well, I'd be up on the west coast of Lake Huron diving. I think that's some of the best shipwreck diving there is." Many of the shipwrecks located along the East Coast have eroded from years in salt water. But the cold, fresh water of the Great Lakes preserves these lost pieces of history. Among the diving community, they're considered world class, offering opportunities to visit an underwater museum that most people will never see.
Shipwreck divers are considered highly skilled, able to navigate shipwrecks, use specialized equipment and endure the harsh water conditions of the Great Lakes. For 20 years, Captain Jim Herbert of Osprey Charters in Westfield, N.Y., has shuttled divers out to the wrecks of Lake Erie. In a typical season, which runs
"I love the shipwrecks on the Great Lakes. They're very diverse and very well preserved," said Papes. "A lot of the artifacts are there, which isn't the case in many places. They are very intact time capsules down there." Diver Dave Stoebe of Washington, Pa., is drawn north to Erie by the relics. "You'll have glass intact on windows, tools on the deck, lifeboats still in place, and stoves on the wreck," he said. Stoebe has been diving for 25 years and says he has witnessed the disintegration of the saltwater vessels and the preservation of the freshwater wrecks. Because saltwater wrecks are subject to decay, divers frequently take artifacts with them, he said, to keep them from being lost forever. In freshwater, the condition of the wrecks depends upon the divers who visit them.
Well suited for diving the Great Lakes. from April to October, he and his son Jim Herbert Jr. and Captain Mike Cochrane charter approximately 1,500 divers. "This is different diving than you would do in the Caribbean or Florida," said Captain Herbert. "Our diving is more strenuous and it's cold water, so you have to be a dedicated diver and have some experience. "I always say if you can dive the Great Lakes, if you can dive Lake Erie, if you can dive these shipwrecks, then you can dive anywhere in the world."
Many freshwater divers, he said,
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Page 8 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday April 1, 2011
Point Pelee Festival of Birds
SPARTA REPORT Mary Muscat
12 people maximum for each hike, so advanced registration is recommended.
Andrew Hibbert
Easter Bunny to visit Sparta Once again the Easter Bunny is visiting Sparta. He is coming early this year on April 16th and 17th and you can see him from 12 to 3 in the side room of the Sparta House Tea Room. Have your picture taken. We would appreciate a donation to the Caring Cupboard. Let's hope it stops snowing by then so he doesn't have to borrow Santa's sleigh.
Be part of spring bird migration at Point Pelee National Park! Lush forest meets expansive wetlands, offering up opportunities to find a wide variety of bird species. Park staff are excited about the renewal and improvements to the park’s visitor facilities and services, including the new shuttle system and are looking forward to sharing them with visitors this spring.
about our park by registering for guided bird hikes at 8:30 am, 1:00 pm from the Birder's Roost at the Visitors Centre or the evening twilight hikes at the DeLaurier Homestead. New for 2011 are the 1:30 pm NorthEnd Hikes meeting at the Marsh Boardwalk area. Observe the daytime movement of the migrants as they funnel northward through the park.
The park’s annual Festival of Birds is April 30 – May 23 2011. The Friends of Point Pelee and Point Pelee National Park welcome "birders" each spring to experience the avian migration phenomenon from Canada's southernmost mainland.
Register online through the Friends of Point Pelee, http://friendsofpointpelee.com or by phone 888707-3533 or 519 326-6173. There are
Learn birding techniques and identification and interesting facts
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