The Sarnia Journal - February 24th, 2022 by The Sarnia Journal

Vol. 9, Issue 4

FREE OF CHARGE

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Diversity

Say What?

Hostile councillors

bring abrupt end to Sarnia’s diversity and equity training GEORGE MATHEWSON & CATHY DOBSON THE JOURNAL

PHOTOGRAPHER RONNY D'HAENE looks on as flocks of ducks, geese and swans feast on schools of fish gathered in open water near Corunna, a wildlife spectacle that's been drawing visitors from across Southwestern Ontario this month. Two of these predators, however, did not actually join the party and were added in just for fun. For more on the fish feeding frenzy please see pages 18 & 19. Altered photo, courtesy of George Rosema

Residents feel pinch of soaring food prices CATHY DOBSON THE JOURNAL

ore and more people are feeling the impact of sharply rising food prices, says the manager of the St. Vincent de Paul food bank. “We’ve got more seniors,

more families, more people who work, coming to us for help,” Sue Platt said. At the Davis Street shop, demand has doubled since October, and even people laid off from high-paying work in the Chemical Valley are seeking help. “They’re telling us that their

projects were cancelled or postponed because of COVID and they can’t cover their bills,” said Platt. “They are used to paying a big mortgage, a car payment and all the rest of it and now they can’t make ends meet. It’s really sad.” The cost of groceries soared 5.7% in January, contributing

consultant providing diversity training at City Hall was so upset by the hostility from some Sarnia councillors at a closed-door training session that she has refused to work with the city, The Journal has learned. Toronto-based KOJO Institute was hired to provide city councillors with training on diversity, inclusion and equity. But after the Nov. 15 training session on Zoom, principal consultant Kike Ojo-Thompson and the company cancelled other agreements it had to train City Hall management and Sarnia Police. “The undisputed, uncorrected, and unabated hostility demonstrated by some members of Council toward our Principal Consultant Kike Ojo-Thompson was wholly inappropriate,” KOJO director of client services Craig Peters wrote in a Dec. 2 letter to Sarnia CAO Chris Carter.

to the fastest rise in the cost of living in 30 years, according to Statistics Canada. “Everything is going up in price, but people who are on Ontario Works got a $5 raise,” she said. “That’s just wrong.” Continued on page 6

Continued on page 3

DEAR READERS:

The Journal will not be publishing on March 3. The next regular print newspaper will be on March 10. For the latest local news, visit the website at www. thesarniajournal.ca or on Facebook.

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Page 2

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, February 24, 2022

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Thursday, February 24, 2022

Diversity: Continued from page 3

Multiple members of council reached out after the meeting to independently apologize and express regret for the actions of their colleagues, Peters said. But the company won’t be back. “We believe the environment is unsafe for KOJO Institute and Ms. Ojo-Thompson to provide the upcoming training sessions. “We will not be countersigning the other agreements.”

The Sarnia Journal

Page 3

Local

When contacted, Peters told The Journal that Ojo-Thompson encountered “a lot of resistance” during the two-hour session. “There were things that were said in that meeting - that we won’t divulge - that led us to believe that it wasn’t in the organization’s best interest to continue,” he said. Ojo-Thompson, who is black, founded the Institute in 1999 and today provides public and private sector clients with expertise and training in equity, human rights and social justice. She was senior facilitator for Ontario’s carding review team and project lead of an initiative

addressing anti-Black racism in the child welfare system. When contacted, Ojo-Thompson confirmed the training session created an unsafe environment for her and her company. “Safety isn’t always physical. There is emotional and mental harm that can be done,” she said. Council debated whether to release the letter and publicly acknowledge the cancelled training during a recent closeddoor meeting and decided again it, The Journal has learned. One of those who personally apologized was Mayor

Mike Bradley, who initiated the diversity training for city personnel. He said the consultants were concerned about the comments and actions of several council members. “I have to be very careful about what I say, but I will say I was highly disappointed by how the meeting unfolded and that they (KOJO) decided they did not want to continue,” Bradley said. It was a training session and not a council meeting so the mayor did not chair it, Bradley said. “Or I would have disrupted what they were trying to do.” Councillors and staff need

diversity training to help understand the values of newcomers to the community, he said. As an immigration task force member, he sees the positive benefits international students have brought to Lambton College and the city, the mayor added. Ojo-Thompson and Peters both said they hope Sarnia pursues diversity training - but only with another company. “I encourage Sarnia to continue doing this work,” said Ojo-Thompson. “We’re rooting for them.”

“But there’s a lot of name calling. It’s been brewing for a long time and finally it’s starting to boil over,” Dennis said. At least a dozen Code of Conduct complaints have been sent to Sarnia Integrity Commissioner Paul Watson about one councillor or another. Watson has upheld just one of them. On Feb. 7, the Commissioner told council via Zoom he had investigated and ruled Dennis violated the Code during Bill Dennis a Sept. 16 meeting when, during a heated debate about vaccine mandates, Dennis laughed and directed a swear word at Stark. Watson recommended council reprimand Dennis for

his “inappropriate behaviour.” But following another acrimonious debate at which other potential Code of Conduct violations occurred, council voted to take no action. In his defence, Dennis said he isn’t tech-savvy and didn’t realize his mic was on when he swore. He said he is the victim of a “smear campaign” that has involved “a litany” of complaints against him. “Mike Stark – there’s a history there and he attacked me…,” Dennis said. At the same meeting, Coun. Nathan Colquhoun revealed he had filed a complaint in December with the Integrity Commissioner stemming from two closed-door meetings. “Horrific language (was) coming out of Coun. Bill Dennis’ mouth,” Colquhoun said. “It is who you are. Own it,”

Colquhoun said to Dennis during the open session. “It’s actually hurting the City of Sarnia.” Colquhoun said Watson chose not to investigate his complaint because Dennis’ comments were made during a closed meeting. That shouldn’t matter, Colquhoun said. “The public can hear what’s said in open meetings. It’s what’s said during closed meetings that has to be monitored.” Colquhoun, who is serving his first term on council, said despite “the tabloid side” of things he’s impressed with council’s accomplishments, including a new rec centre initiative, waterfront master plan, and “our ability to deal with NIMBYism,” he said. Dennis, who is also a firstterm councillor, said despite it

all he is able to focus on policy and forget about personality differences. The ill will on council has even spilled over into social media. Shortly after the last council meeting, a local trucker taking part in the Freedom Convoys threatened Dennis’ council opponents in a Tik Tok video. “If you fxxk with my friend Bill Dennis, I promise you won’t be sitting in that office very long,” said the man, who has 30,000 Tik Tok followers. “If I were you, I would back the fxxk off real fast.” Dennis quickly distanced himself from the video. “When I saw that, I was embarrassed,” he said. “That’s just nuts. It’s crazy. I’ve never even met the guy before.” The post was later taken down.

Infighting, bitter attacks plaguing Sarnia council

CATHY DOBSON THE JOURNAL

long with its accomplishments this term, the current city council is also dogged by a sideshow of personal insults and infighting, several councillors say. “It’s disturbing to see some members don’t think their conduct, or how they treat one another, is importMike Stark ant,” said Coun. Mike Stark. “This has been going on for the entire term.” Coun. Bill Dennis, who has clashed repeatedly with Stark, said that when he was elected three years ago he expected to be making decisions about road repairs.

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Page 4

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Local

Though too young to drive, this teen already flying than Nauta has been watching the skies since he was little. “I’ve always been a fanatic for airplanes,” said the 15-year-old, recalling a plastic toy plane he carried around for years. “My earliest memory is from when I was really, really, young. I was with my grandma in the car and I would just look up at every plane I saw.” His fascination with the science of flight grew, and when he was 12 begged his mom to attend a summer camp at the Huron Flight Centre. “I told him, ‘You get me all the info and I’ll take you there,’” mom Lisa Nauta recalled. “He was totally hooked.” Officials at the flight centre took note of the boy’s keen interest and suggested lessons. “And it kind of went from there,” she said. Nauta logged flight hours alongside chief instructor Jason

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Brent, and when he turned the minimum age of 14, was ready to qualify for a solo flight licence. But he had to wait for Transport Canada to provide medical, and just as the pandemic arrived. “There were some extra steps that they had to take to assure that I could be a pilot because I have autism spectrum disorder,” said Nauta, whose medical clearance application was submitted in March 2020. “I was confident he would and so were all the people who supported him,” his mom said, “But there was that trepidation with him, wondering if he would be able to take that first flight.” After waiting nearly two years, Nauta’s certification was approved and last month he took off and landed a plane by himself. “It was fairly surreal,” said Nauta, who took one quick loop around the Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport before landing

TARA JEFFREY THE JOURNAL

ETHAN NAUTA, 15, on the day of his first solo flight over Sarnia last month from the Huron Flight Centre. Submitted Photo

— where he was greeted by the flight centre team and a good old-fashioned water soaking. “They were super celebratory about it — they’re the ones that taught me to be able to do all those things.” Nauta plans to work towards his recreational licence, and has bigger dreams of attending the Royal Military College of Canada. Last summer,

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he met Col. Chris Hadfield when he visited the flight centre, but was a little too star-struck to mention his own achievements. “I don’t know,” Nauta said modestly. “He meets so many people in a day, and there was a huge lineup.” “He was speechless,” added Lisa Nauta, who recently moved from Sarnia to Petrolia. Dennis Ryan of the Huron Flight Centre said only a handful of teens have obtained a solo licence over the years. “It’s a lot of work to get there,” he said. “A lot of grown ups will

quit before the solo, because it’s too much.” These days, it’s Nauta’s mom who’s beaming up at the sky. “It’s just amazing to be able to watch him fly the aircraft — with that level of responsibility — it’s so surreal,” she said. When he turns 16, and with a recreational licence, Nauta will be able to bring a passenger along. “I’ll have to drive him to the airport,” she said, “but he can fly his date out to Thunder Bay for lunch.”

Local surgeries to resume JOURNAL STAFF

luewater Health is preparing to resume some routine surgeries, the hospital said last week. Patients in the coming

days will be notified of opportunities to reschedule their surgeries and other appointments. Non-urgent surgeries were paused when Ontario’s health system was strained by another surge in

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Thursday, February 24, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

Page 5

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Page 6

The Sarnia Journal

Food Price: Continued from page 3

Dairy products are up 6.8% from a year ago, vegetables and baked items 5% to 7%, and fruit 3% to 5%, according to a recent Food Prices Report prepared by researchers at the University of Dalhousie, University of Guelph, University of Saskatchewan and the University of B.C. For those who can, dining out is 6% to 8% more expensive. Experts blame a range of challenges, including rising commodity prices, increases in worker salaries, transportation costs, pandemic-related supply chain disruptions, and the impact of fires and floods caused by climate change.

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Local

It’s a perfect storm, said Myles Vanni, executive director at The Inn of the Good Shepherd, Sarnia’s largest food bank. “Folks who are employed have lost a lot of income through COVID,” he said. “And if you are a person on assistance, there’s been no real increase since 2018. How do you make that stretch with the rising cost of living?” Before the pandemic, the Inn generally spent $3,000 to $5,000 a month buying for the food bank, Vanni said. “We’re now spending $30,000 a month. Donations are down and food is costing more,” he said. The Inn’s food bank serves an average 1,850 people a month. Vanni said rising prices are impacting donations, because families that normally donate food are having trouble cov-

ering their own expenses this winter. Finding affordable housing already made things hard, said Platt. “I don’t think some people could survive without going to all three food banks in Sarnia.” Each of Sarnia’s three food banks needs donations and each has its own rules for client access. • Inn of the Good Shepherd food bank: Every 3 weeks. Open Mon-Fri 9:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Grocery store model. 115 John St. Visit www.theinnsarnia.ca for details.

SUPPLY CHAIN problems have contributed to rising food prices and empty shelves, like these at a city grocery store last week. Journal Photo

• St. Vincent de Paul food bank: Every 4 weeks. Open Fridays. Call 519337-1058 for an appointment. 228 YOUR Davis St. Visit www. ONGOING

SUPPORT IS APPRECIATED

• Salvation Army food bank:

Garbage collection times JOURNAL STAFF

S Through the generous support from community organizations, individuals, business and industries; The Inn of The Good Shepherd is able to make a difference in the lives of thousands of individuals and families. Whether its focusing on providing most needed food items or a hot meal, providing shelter, helping that family stay housed with Rent/ Utility assistance or providing school supplies to children, your financial donation allows The Inn to help in so many ways!

Food Donations: Food items can be dropped off at the following locations: • The Inn: 115 John St – between 8:30 am & 4:30pm, Monday to Friday • The Lodge: 950 Confederation St – anytime • Firehalls (during the Christmas, Easter and Thanksgiving food drives)

MOST NEEDED ITEMS: Cereal, School Snacks, Juice Boxes, Large Soups & Stews, Canned Fruit/Jams, Kraft Dinner, Dish Soap, Sugar, Coffee We are very happy to receive fresh and frozen items such as milk, meat, fruit & vegetables etc. For health reasons, they would have to be dropped off directly at The Inn at 115 John St.

Financial Donations: MAIL: The Inn 115 John St. Sarnia, ON N7T 2Z1

WEBSITE: www.theinnsarnia.ca/donate Fill out the donation form on our Donate Page

PHONE: Call The Inn at (519) 344-1746 x301 by Visa or Master Card

Thank you for allowing The Inn to be your caring hands in the community!

Call 519-344-1142 for an appointment. 970 Confederation St. www.salvationarmy.ca for details.

ssvpsarnialambton.ca for details.

arnia residents may notice their garbage picked up at a different time of the day after the city’s waste contractor updated its routes. The collection dates haven’t changed, but residents are reminded to set out materials after 6 p.m. the night before, or before 7 a.m. the

day of collection. Large items will be picked up the first full week of every month. During large item/bulk collection week, the three-garbage bag limit still applies. Assembled bulk items like chairs, couches, tables, mattresses, and bed frames can be placed at the curb for collection. Unacceptable large items include electronics, commercial and industrial-sized

RETIREMENT ANNOUNCEMENT I, David A. Elliott, am announcing my retirement effective February 28, 2022, after practising law for 54 years in this community. I would like to extend my appreciation and gratitude to all of my clientele over the years. In the future, please contact Melanie Hockin of George Murray Shipley Bell, LLP, at 519-336-8770 or Spencer Houlihan at 519-491-2136 as my legal practice will be continued by both of them in different aspects. My legal assistants will continue working in my clients’ best interests for Melanie Hockin as of March 1, 2022.

items, auto parts, building and construction materials such as toilets, sinks, vanities, windows, drywall, lumber, ceramic tile, broken concrete, asphalt and doors. Unacceptable items are the responsibility of the homeowner to dispose of. They can be brought to local drop-off locations. Contact Transco Recycling 519-332-4045; Waste Depot 519-333-8252; or Curran Recycling 519-332-0849. More information can be found at the City of Sarnia website.

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Thursday, February 24, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

Page 7

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Page 8

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Editorial

Published by The Sarnia Journal, A division of Sarnia Media Group Inc.

P.O. Box 22045, 322 Christina St N., Sarnia, ON, N7S 6J4

Stately home rich in local history about to be sold

t dates from a time before Sarnia was a city, built by a man who served as its mayor. The gracious home at 115 Christina St. South was constructing in 1900 or 1901 by Thomas Doherty, the president and owner of the Doherty Stove Works on Wellington Street. But not long after Dohertywho would die in office as mayor in 1916- sold the Queen Anne-style home to Harry Loughead. Loughead manufactured munitions during the First World War and later, as part of the Loughead-Seagrave Company in the 1920s, made early motorized fire engines. The Loughead family was well known throughout Sarnia-Lambton. Harry’s father had been an Oil Springs resident since 1860 and was one of the oil industry’s early executives. Harry Loughead died in 1958 and the home passed to his son, Brock, who was still living there in 1983 when the

Sarnia Heritage Committee compiled a list of historic homes. The property became a bed and breakfast, a women’s clothing shop, and a tearoom. It was acquired in 2005 by Louise and Dougall Meloney, and it was Mr. Meloney’s recent passing that resulted in it now going on the market. At press time, a listing was expected any day. Inside, the High Victorian style is evident throughout with lofty ceilings, intricate woodworking and an overall sense of quality. History pervades the four-bedroom, two bathroom residence, which features a parlour, family room, kitchen and a large, three-storey bell-topped tower featuring a top-storey bandshell verandah. It’s a gem, but the grand old

lady does need work. Historic artifacts abound throughout and they are being offered for sale with the property. Among them are 100-year-old, unopened bottles of wine and liquor. Multiple cellar door locks attest to a rumour the home had a rum-running past during Prohibition. In the parlour, a tin ceiling is said to hide bullet holes from one of Harry Loughead’s accidental ammunition firings gone awry. Period photos line the walls. This writer, an amateur local historian, was struck by one large family portrait displayed on a THE LOUGHHEAD HOUSE at 115 Christina St. South, beside the Post reception-area wall. It’s an Office. early 20th century portrait Journal Photo of the Reid family. Jim Reid was a Sarnia-based sailor and tug-man Phil Egan is editor-in-chief book, The Salvager. who towed log rafts and salof the Sarnia Historical SoThe sale of 115 Christina St. vaged shipwrecks. Son ThomS. is expected to draw interest ciety. Got an interesting tale? as, also pictured, was another from as far as the GTA and go Contact him at philegan@ salvage captain famed through- for a price in the mid-six figure cogeco.ca out the Great Lakes. His many range or higher. exploits are described in the

and treats any chance they could. My spouse and myself showed him how to integrate and Tali become an McGovern important member of the family. Note: I do not recommend “potty” training a young puppy in the dead of winter. (I spent many hours waving from the warmth of the living room window as my spouse shivered outside hoping to avoid accidents in the house). Our youngest learned what it feels like to be corrected and reprimanded during an instructor’s “clicker” obedience classes, while Mattie reaped the benefits of the never-ending lessons - delicious treats over

and over again. I’m not even sure we passed the class. As our children grew, so did our dog’s loyalty and responsibility: claiming the top of the couch as a personal perch to look for what I can only assume was potential burglars, placing himself with impeccable timing in the same room when dating began, and most recently, sniffing out a possum living in a closet. One of the biggest roles Mattie had to master, without any formal education, was that of therapist. You can imagine the stories my spouse, a paramedic, unloaded on our four-legged therapist, who would lie on his lap lending a furry ear for scratching. For myself, our furry child helped talk me through the

PHIL

EGAN

An ode to Mattie, our loyal and loving family dog TALI MCGOVERN

ur family dog passed away a few weeks ago after spending 14 years as a constant and loyal listener, snuggle buddy, cleanup crew, travel partner, and so much more. The operative word here is family because Mattie, a white and fluffy Bichon Frise, was uniquely important to each individual and the overall dynamics in our household. It’s difficult to write about, how important this fifth member of the family was, but my observations can offer a glimpse of the lessons we all learned. My children, as 6-and-7year-olds, welcomed him with excitement and enthusiasm - offering cuddles, kisses, toys

because my assistant never complained about taste testing or unwrapping gifts. Just whispering, “Do you wanna go for a ride?” would result in toys getting dropped, tail wagging, and a race to the door. That phrase multiplied as the number of drivers in our home increased, which meant more toe-tapping adventures to feel the wind in your hair, smells all around and smiles on your face. Thank you Mattie, for allowing us to be your family for one of the best rides of our lives.

day-to-day, from cooking to vacations to event planning. I can’t really tell you if I’m successful at anything

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Tali McGovern is a Sarnia native who recently moved back home with her family.

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Thursday, February 24, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

Page 9

Letters

Time to wake up and realize our rights are being denied

Sir: As Canadians, it is easy to be filled with fear or anger right now. But people need to educate themselves on what is actually happening to our country. Today’s government is not the government of our forefathers. We are losing our democracy, and we are oblivious to it happening right under our noses. Research Brian Peckford, the former Premier of Newfoundland and the last living premier who

helped draft Canada’s Constitution and Charter of Rights and Freedoms. He recently filed suit against the federal government, saying its COVID-19 vaccine requirements for air travel are unconstitutional and

infringe on all Canadians’ charter rights. As Peckford notes, Section One of the Constitution, which allows government to limit charter rights in some cases, was meant for war or insurrection, not for a virus from which 99% of Canadians recover. Propaganda and fear mongering and control tactics from the World Health Organization, the federal government, and most mainstream media are causing social division

in Canada. Their agenda is unethical and immoral, and I hope some day they will all be held accountable. Canadians are too trustworthy. We don’t recognize that our prime minister holds too much power, and he has no intention of ending mandates. Is this how we want to live forever? Research the Declaration of Canadian Physicians for Science and Truth. Thousands of citizens and doctors are

upset by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, which has forbidden doctors from questioning or debating official pandemic measures. Look up Dr. Robert Malone, one of the scientists who invented mRNA vaccines, and his concerns about the safety and ethics of how COVID-19 vaccines were developed and forced upon the world. He and 17,000 experts have requested the ending of mandates.

The government has used the Emergencies Act to make us totally obedient and remove our rights, while the mainstream media supports the government’s one-sided narrative. Wake up Canadians, and show your solidarity for our country!

the day. No double-doubles at this facility, boys. How long do you think a “F*ck Xi” flag would fly in a country that banned Disney’s Winnie the Pooh film because memes likened the dictator to a cuddly yellow bear? Tyranny is an easy word to throw around in a country that is anything

but. Screaming obscenities at politicians and bureaucrats while shutting down major trade routes with little consequence demonstrates our Charter rights are doing just fine. The protest mobilized and made its point loud and clear (something to be very proud of), but can we please move on?

History is full of examples of actual tyranny, and we’d all be better off learning what real fascist rule looks like before taking to the streets to oppose a free, effective and safe vaccine. Which, let’s be clear, you aren’t forced to take. We’re all exhausted with Covid-19 mandates, but

Canadians would be best advised to unify under legitimate and democratically elected leaders - regardless of party - and save our gripes for election day. It may come sooner than we think.

— Sonya Hicks Sarnia

Comparing Canada to communist China? Give me a break Sir: “F*ck Trudeau” is a flag seen at almost every Freedom Convoy gathering. Its vulgarity is often accompanied by claims the current P.M. should be tried for treason and COVID-19 mandates are tyrannical. Some placards liken Canada to “Communist China.” Interesting.

How well might these diesel-fueled demonstrators do if they mobilized under the rule of President Xi Jinping, storming Beijing in their 18-wheelers? I’m guessing most would find themselves on a highway to the nearest re-education camp before lighting their first dart of

— Troy Shantz Sarnia

Vaccines have been godsend Doing away with plastic appreciated

Sir: Regarding Greg Hamilton’s letter of Feb. 10, “Fed up with government controls, pandemic mismanagement.” I am very disappointed the Sarnia Journal published it. At NO time was it ever claimed by the medical community that getting vaccinated would protect someone from getting the virus. It was ALWAYS claimed that the symptoms would be less severe. That has now been proven. The writer is right that the ICU’s are full of unvaccinated and vaccinated citizens. However, what he chooses to ignore is that 90% of Canadians are vaccinated, and the 10% that are not are occupying up to 50% of the ICU beds. Do the math! The government is not discriminating against the unvacci-

nated. If you don’t want to get a vaccination, fine. Just remember that your choice has consequences. The government is using the available science to ensure that the rest of us are protected, and trying to keep the hospitals clear for patients that have more severe medical problems. To John Parker (in same edition) I would say this. I am sorry that he had an adverse reaction to the vaccine. But at no time did the medical community guarantee that the shot would not adversely affect any of the population. The vaccines have been a godsend, particularly for my 85-year-old mother.

— Blake Stevenson Bright’s Grove

Sir: I would like to commend the Sarnia Journal for its pickup and delivery options. I appreciate how readers can decide how to get the issues, because they actually want to read them. I would also like to thank The Journal’s staff for being easy to contact and very responsive. But what I love most was its decision to stop delivering the paper in soft plastic bags! I have been in contact with a different newspaper since December, requesting that they stop delivering to my neighbourhood in plastic bags for environmental concerns. Many newspapers tossed in driveways are simply driven over until they are mush or

But since then, the driveway deliveries have stopped, and I’m grateful for the refreshing change of scenery of not seeing weeks of unread issues rotting in their plastic bags. I do appreciate this reduction of waste. Sincerely,

tossed directly into the blue box - still untouched in their soft plastic bags. I suggested through emails and photos that they consider alternatives, and after weeks of no response, called Sarnia’s bylaw enforcement to inquire about littering laws. Apparently, the delivery person was concerned about COVID and coming into contact with others.

— Melissa Cataford Sarnia

Letters to the Editor We welcome letters to the editor on any subject but reserve the right to edit for clarity, brevity and libel. All letters must be 350 WORDS or less and include your full name. An

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Page 10

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Letters

Where was the party for P.M. Mackenzie? Blaming government easy, but not helpful

Sir: A great Sarnians had a birthday back on Jan. 28. And a significant one too, one that ends with a zero and feels like both an ending and a new start. Where was the party? There wasn’t one. No music, no streamers, no cake and ice cream. Nothing. That’s both surprising and sad, considering Alexander Mackenzie was well known not just here but all across the country. The guest of honour was a local stonemason and building contractor who became Canada’s second Prime Minister after Confederation And the day – Jan. 28, 2022

– marked the 200th anniversary of his birth. I suppose we could blame COVID for the lack of celebration, but there may have been other factors as well. It was a long time ago. But I thought I might have missed it. Had there been some quiet and modest commemoration somewhere? So I asked around, and eventually found that Lambton County’s Cultural Services Division had marked the day with a social media post (Lambton Heritage Museum - Facebook) and slide show, which provided a very satis-

factory outline of Mackenzie’s life and career. Well-written, easy to read, and very nicely illustrated, it’s a great way to get better acquainted with the Sarnia-Lambton citizen who made it to the top. Why should his birthday matter? One reason is Mackenzie’s position in history; another is his association with this community, which gives us a distinction few other places in the country can claim. A reason to be proud.

— Bryan Trothen Sarnia

Sir: This is in response to Greg Hamilton’s Feb. 10th letter, “Fed up with government controls, pandemic mismanagement.” I appreciate the letter as I can relate to his anger and frustration with this ongoing pandemic. But I just don’t see how blaming the government, or anyone else for that matter, is very helpful. In fact, it can make matters worse. What helps is to remember that some of the world’s governments could care less if you or I lived or died. Ours seems to care. Yes, what it has told us has not always been correct, but that doesn’t mean it lied. Government is only as good as the information it receives, and that information can change on an on-going basis. That doesn’t make it a lie.

Scientists and health organizations are trying their best to help us, but it’s pretty hard to stop an enemy like this virus when you don’t know or understand it. It’s been a learning curve for everyone. As the writer said, the vaccinated and unvaccinated are both getting sick, but at least the vaccines are slow the death rate. There are over 300,450 people who work for the government of Canada. A Lot of them protect us. COVID is here to stay until a cure is found, and focusing on everything that the government did wrong will get us nowhere. A wise man once said, Don’t pray the problem, pray for the solution.

Sir: Regarding the Feb. 11 letter, “City council loves big dream projects – in an election year,” and the proposed waterfront redevelopment. If I could pile on, there is nothing wrong with our waterfront the way it is. Theodore Tugboat made an appearance but many waterfront venues have been reduced by COVID-19. We lost the Highland Games, Ribfest relocated, and the big music concerts moved to under the Blue Water Bridge. If it couldn’t support these venues why pour more money into the waterfront? With an estimated cost of $55 million, isn’t there a better option for these funds, such as Sarnia’s

infrastructure? When I walk the pup or bike along the waterfront I see no need for improvement. Let’s leave it natural. Skip the concrete and proposed “market district” and support our existing downtown shops and their services. We paid $200,000 for this ‘re-envisioning’ of our waterfront? Regarding a “Sarnia” sign to welcome boaters. Please, if you’re navigating a watercraft you should already be aware of your destination! Let’s save the concrete and cost and do the right thing for our community. Respectfully,

— Mary Jane Foley Sarnia

Waterfront plan too expensive, not needed

— Michael Murray Sarnia

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Thursday, February 24, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

Journal earns five award nominations

JOURNAL STAFF

Local

T:13.5"

he Sarnia Journal, your independent hometown newspaper, has been nominated for five Ontario newspaper awards - including best community newspaper in the province. The Journal is one of three finalists in its class for the General Excellence Award, the highest honour bestowed by the Ontario Community Newspaper Association. The award recognizes outstanding achievement based on the overall quality of a newspaper’s news and sports, photography, advertising and layout. It marks the third time The Journal has been judged one of Ontario’s best community newspapers. Reporter Cathy Dobson was nominated in the highly competitive category of Best News Story. Her piece on the Sarnia-Lambton Children’s Aid Society described how it was the first in Ontario to phase out group homes, thus improving living conditions and outcomes for children.

Photographer Ronny D’Haene’s elegant front-page shot of a great egret landing in Lake Chipican with wings outstretched earned a nod for Best Feature Photo. Editor George Mathewson and D’Haene teamed up on a nomination for Best Photo Layout, a two-page story and photo spread of unusual wildlife, all recorded within the boundaries of the City Of Sarnia. And finally, the Remembrance Day insert, Sarnia Remembers: a special tribute to our local heroes was nominated for Best Special Section. The 24-page package contained never-before-told stories that honoured the lives and sacrifices made by residents in Canada’s military campaigns. The five OCNA nominations in 2021 matched the highest number in a year for the Journal, which is one of more than 200 newspapers in the non-profit industry association. The winners will be announced during a virtual presentation scheduled for April 29th.

Page 11 T:5.7"

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The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Local

Today’s youth more open about mental struggles: advocate rience, and explored how to keep hope and maintain mental health during these challenging times. indsay Kirkland says it’s Kirkland draws on her perthe younger generation sonal journey to advocate for that gives her the most struggling youth, and founded hope when it comes to tackling the Stigma Survivors social the youth mental health crisis. media campaign. Last year she “I sit back — just in awe of was awarded the YMCA Peace these kids,” the mental health Medal for her community worker and advocate said advocacy. during a provincial panel disShe spoke about the need cussion for Bell Let’s Talk day. for a different approach when “I am mind-blown at their it comes to helping youth who need mental health support. “There’s a shift in trying to move away from the ‘clinical’ aspect,” said Kirkland, who sits on the youth advisory group for Access Open St. Joseph’s Hospice is a compassionate and supportive community of Minds Sarnia-Lambton staff, volunteers, and donors dedicated to making living and dying as — a new mental health comfortable and as meaningful as possible at the end of life. Since 2009, facility set to open this St. Joseph’s Hospice has served nearly 2,100 residents. Hospice services

TARA JEFFREY THE JOURNAL

self-awareness and their willingness to talk about their mental health and their struggles. “I was 13 when I lost my first best friend to suicide,” she added. “And when I reflect back to that age, those conversations of mental health and well-being, and what suicide was — (they) were not happening at all.” The virtual event, moderated by CMHA Ontario, included roundtable discussions featuring mental health experts and individuals with lived expe-

are an essential component of our health care system, focusing on individualized care and comfort. Dignity and comfort are the cornerstones of care at St. Joseph’s Hospice. We welcome people of all backgrounds, cultures, and religions. We also offer a variety of supportive services to address the unique needs of those in our community who have a life limiting illness, their family members and those grieving the death of a significant person. Some of our supportive services include bereavement support for adults and children. All services are offered FREE of charge to the Sarnia-Lambton community.

Lindsay Kirkland

summer. “I can still remember going to my appointments — walking into hospitals or office buildings, filling out a stack of forms and disclosing all this vulnerable information, some

Weekly trivia challenge

Sophomore refers to a . For over a hundred . What is the seventh 1year.student 5 who is in what years, what breed of dog 6planet from the sun? of study? has been the firefighters’ . “Edchup” is a Heinz unofficial mascot? . 18-year-old twin sisters, 7 Tomato Ketchup named 2Fiona and Hannah Elafter which contemporary liott, from Sarnia are rising athletes in what discipline?

English musician?

. What major Canadian 8“Hollywood city has been dubbed North” owing

. What word is both a hand tool and the last stone advantage to a team in curling?

St. Joseph’s Hospice receives partial funding for nursing care costs through the Ontario Ministry of Health. To bridge the funding gap, St. Joseph’s Hospice

must raise over $1.6 million each year ($133,000 per month - $4,384 per day)

to ensure that all programs and services are available at no cost to residents, community clients or their families.

WAYS TO GIVE: Memorial Gifts: You can make an in-memoriam gift to Hospice or name St. Joseph’s Hospice as the charity of choice when a loved one dies. Monthly Contributions: Monthly giving is a great way to invest in palliative care annually while dividing your support over easy monthly donations. Your support ensures stable funding for St. Joseph’s Hospice to continue to meet the future needs of our clients, their families, and our community. Your monthly gift can be made using VISA, or MasterCard, or by EFT (withdrawn monthly from your account). Planned Giving: A planned gift to Hospice permits you to organize your philanthropic giving to support your personal values while minimizing the after-tax costs. Planned giving is most commonly arranged through a will bequest, life insurance, RRSPs and RRIFs, and/or gifts of securities. One Time Donation: In person, by Phone or by Mail • Drop by our office at 475 Christina Street North, Sarnia • You can call and make a donation over the phone by credit card (519-337-0537) • You can mail a cheque (payable to St. Joseph’s Hospice) to our address at 475 Christina Street North, Sarnia, ON, N7T 5W3 If you would like the convenience of donating online, please go to www.stjosephshospice.ca/make-a-difference/donate.

Thank you for your continued support! Care… Compassion… Community

of it I didn’t even want to admit to myself at that point,” she recalled of appointments with counsellors, psychologists and psychiatrists over the years. “Because there’s nothing harder than walking in and having to disclose such a big part of yourself to someone who you can’t see yourself in.” That’s why she can’t wait for Access Open Minds to open in downtown Sarnia, she said. “We’re going to have the clinical supports in place but our goal is to make sure that the space is welcoming for youth and parents and caregivers and anyone else who really needs the support,” she said. “Sometimes it’s nice to know that the person on the other side who you’re having to disclose to… is also a human… they also have their own struggles.”

to its thriving film industry?

. Which two-word nick9family name for England’s royal is also the title of a

. On Saturday, Feb. 26th, the fundraiser “Coldest Night of the Year” will benefit what local organization?

John Grisham novel?

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The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, February 24, 2022

International Women’s Day

March 8, 2022 #breakthebias www.internationalwomensday.com

How to celebrate International Women’s Day

nternational Women’s Day takes place every year on March 8. On this day, many organizations and companies around the world celebrate the role of women in society. Here are five ways you can mark this special occasion.

1. REFLECT ON THE HISTORY OF FEMINISM Take a moment to remember all the people who fought for societal change and helped advance women’s rights throughout history.

2. BRAINSTORM WAYS TO TAKE ACTION Consider ways to help combat feminist issues like violence against women

and gender inequality in the workplace. Ask your friends and family to help you come up with things you can do to make a lasting difference.

3. HIGHLIGHT THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF OTHERS Mark the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Celebrate the important steps that have been taken to create a more fair and just society.

5. CHALLENGE DECISION MAKERS Call on elected officials and other influential people to join the fight for gender equality and take action to advance women’s rights.

4. CHAMPION GENDER EQUALITY There are many ways you can make a difference for women. You can wear a purple ribbon, participate in feminist rallies or take action to fight

In addition, you can look for initiatives in your community that promote the role of women in society and contribute to the feminist struggle.

for gender equality.

Why gender equality is important

on March 8 and is the perfect time to highlight how gender equality benefits everybody.

International Women’s Day is celebrated

MULTIPLE INEQUALITIES In many places, women have fewer employment opportunities than men and are denied fair access to health care and education. In fact, on average, women still earn 24 per

s of 2014, 143 countries guaranteed equality between men and women in their constitutions. However, legalizing gender equality doesn’t necessarily mean that in practice women have the same opportunities as men.

We are proud to support International Women’s Day! - MARCH 8, 2022 -

cent less than men.

Every day, nearly 37,000 girls under 18 are forced into marriage, jeopardizing their education. In 2020, 32 million girls were unable to attend primary school. SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES A lack of education means that young wom-

en aren’t equipped with the skills needed to compete on an equal footing with men. However, giving women greater economic empowerment significantly increases economic growth.

AN ESSENTIAL BALANCE Gender equality is a fundamental right. In fact, advancing gender

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Thursday, February 24, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

Page 15

International Women’s Day

#breakthebias

March 8, 2022

www.internationalwomensday.com

Huge tournament win for local team of ‘Girls Who Game’

CATHY DOBSON THE JOURNAL

local girls’ eSport team has won international recognition with a firstplace finish at the annual Girls Who Game STEM tournament. “It’s just amazing,” said cocoach Melissa Dent, a Grade7 virtual teacher with the Lambton Kent District School Board. “We were just astounded to be honest. All the other teams had more gaming experience than us. We really entered to have fun.” The team of Grade 7 and 8 students, known as the Digital Divas, are not only the GWG STEM eSports Event Melissa Dent Champions, they also received this year’s Citizenship Award for Canada after submitting a five-minute video they made about connecting and belonging to their community. “I am very proud of them,” Dent said. “They worked so well together.” The Feb. 3 online tournament pitted the local team against five others from across North America. Each had 10 minutes to build a virtual world and solve a problem – a decline in the bee population. The Digital Divas formed in 2020 when Dent learned about Girls Who Game (GWG) and started an extracurricular GWG online club. It was an ideal fit during the pandemic and proves that there is a positive side to virtual learning, she said. “We know that 83% of North American girls aged 13 to 25 play video games, so why not engage them in something they like where they gain an appreciation for STEM subjects?” STEM is the acronym of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The local club meets weekly with support from Dent, co-coach and P.E. McGibbon principal Melissa Holmes, and a few Grade 9 students. They’re assisted by Dell Technologies with partners Microsoft and Intel. None of the team members have met physically and live

throughout the school board, said Dent. But they accomplish big things together using Mindcraft to build virtual worlds. “Every single one of these girls has gained a lot of self-confidence,” she said. “They are usually the quieter students and they have learned how to communicate respectfully, how to be team players and how to be creative.” Dent said she’d like to see more GWG clubs start locally because it’s a good way to introduce potential STEM careers and find online solutions to real world problems. “We know they are gaming anyway, so why not build on that and give students voice and choice, to demonstrate their learning to us and display their skills?” said Dent. The idea of engaging girls to pursue science and tech through eSports was started by Dell Tehnologies in 2019 with about 50 participants. Today, more than 2,200 girls from three countries are in 221 clubs. “These girls are our future innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders,” said Katina Papulkas, Dell’s senior education strategist. “Our hope with Girls Melissa Holmes

A GROUP OF Grade 7-8 girls known as the Digital Divas recently won a North American eSports tournament. Submitted screen capture

Who Game is to spark an everlasting interest in STEM needed to solve society’s most pressing problems for future generations.” The Digital Divas who took part in this year’s competition included Asha Shoaib, Salem Billings, Izabelle Williams, Hailey Pfile, Emma Richardson, Emily Veenkamp, Melissa Veenkamp, Emma Wellington and Zoe Williams.

Support International

Women’s Day

Celebrating International Women’s Day! March 8, 2022 Mayor Mike Bradley & Sarnia City Council

For Guidance & Expert Advice REALTOR® & Transitional Specialist

Call Carla 519-464-3230

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Page 16

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, February 24, 2022

International Women’s Day

#breakthebias

March 8, 2022

www.internationalwomensday.com

Six inspiring women who made history

hroughout history, countless women authors, scientists, artists, activists and philosophers have accomplished amazing feats and changed the world for the better. To mark International Women’s Day on March 8, here’s a brief look at six inspiring women.

1. Rosa Parks (1913 – 2005) famously refused to give up her bus seat to a white man in Alabama in 1955. This action triggered a major turning point in the fight against racial segregation.

2. Emmeline Pankhurst (1858 – 1928) was a militant champion

of women’s suffrage in Britain and had a huge impact on women gaining the right to vote.

3. Simone de Beauvoir (1908 – 1986) was a French philosopher and writer. Her work has inspired many feminist movements and contin-

ues to empower women from all walks of life.

4. Simone Veil (1927 – 2017) was elected as France’s Minister of Health in 1974 and fought hard to pass a law permitting voluntary termination of pregnancies.

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5. Wangari Maathai (1940 – 2011) was a political and environmental activist. She was the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for her contributions to democracy, peace and sustainable development.

6. Malala Yousafzai (1997 – present) is the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner in history and has advocated for girls’ education in Pakistan since she was 11.

Take time to learn more about these and other remarkable achievements made by women.

Gender inequality worldwide

hen the United Nations member states adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, they established gender equality as one of 17 distinct components vital to worldwide peace and prosperity. Here are some of the many ways in which gender disparities are problematic. • More women live in extreme poverty than men. This discrepancy is most acute during women’s peak childbearing years, when they’re 25 per cent more likely to live in extreme poverty than men. • More women are food insecure than men. On average, women are 10 per cent more likely to experience food insecurity than men worldwide, particularly in times of crisis. • More girls are excluded from education than boys. An estimated 15 million school-age girls worldwide will grow up illiterate, compared to 10 million boys. As of 2016, two-thirds of illiterate adults

were women. • More women are the primary procurers of water than men. Women and girls are responsible for collecting water, often travelling long distances, in 80 per cent of households without access to water on the property. • More women live in slum-like conditions than men. Women are overrepresented in 70 per cent of slums in 61 developing countries, where they lack access to clean water, proper sanitation facilities and/or adequate housing. • More women are the victims of human trafficking than men. Women and girls account for three-quarters of human trafficking victims, who are predominantly intended for sexual exploitation. Gender equality can’t be achieved in isolation. Only by addressing the world’s most pressing occur- rences of deprivation and discrimination can the global community hope to attain gender parity.

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Constituency Office: 805 Christina St. North Suite 102 • Point Edward www.bobbaileympp.com Tel: (519) 337-0051 bob.baileyco@pc.ola.org

Thursday, February 24, 2022

hat’s happening events must be open to the public or virtual, of general interest, 60 words or less, and received at least two weeks prior to the event. Please include ticket prices, if any, and a phone number or website where readers can obtain more information. Email notices to info@thesarniajournal.ca. With pandemic cancellations common, we recommend you verify before attending any community event. SATURDAY, FEB. 26

Art Exhibit Gallery in the Grove opens the year with a fourman exhibit featuring Irvin Hawkes, J. Allison Robichaud, Dan Ryan, and Bill Walters. Runs until March 26. COVID protocols in place. For gallery hours and information, visit www. galleryinthegrove.com or call 519-869-4643 SUNDAY, FEB. 27 Music Concert Bluewater Chamber Players are performing at Sarnia Library, 124 Christina St. S., 2:30 p.m. Tickets $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and students, free for ages 14 and under. Proceeds donated to Noelle’s Gift. COVID protocols in place. For tickets, contact principalcello@gmail.com or 519-331-4196 or visit the group’s Facebook page MONDAY, FEB. 28 50/50 Draw In recognition of National Human Trafficking Awareness Day 2022, the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Centre is holding a 50/50 draw. Proceeds will support anti-human trafficking

The Sarnia Journal

Page 17

Community What’s Happening program. Draw at 12 p.m. For tickets, email info@ sascsl.ca Genealogy The Lambton County Branch of Ontario Genealogical Society holding a virtual drop-in. 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. For Zoom link and information, contact lambton@ogs.on.ca TUESDAY, MARCH 1

THURSDAY, MARCH 3 Compassion Fatigue Lawrence Murphy, founder of Worldwide Therapy Online, to speak on managing compassion fatigue and stress in online service delivery. 8:30 a.m. Free and virtual. Hosted by Sexual Assault Survivors’ Centre and St. Clair Child & Youth Services. Register on Eventbrite. Link available at sexualassaultsarnia. ca. Self-Compassion Twin Bridges NPLC offering an interactive series

Card Games Point Edward Service Club hosts Cribbage every Tuesday, 1:30 p.m. and Euchre every Thursday, 7 p.m. 503 Michigan Ave. All are welcome. For more, call 519-337-9822

Art Exhibition The Lawrence House is featuring local artist Jane Hunter’s solo exhibition “From Then Until Now,” and a members’ exhibit “Motion and Movement.” 127 Christia St. S., Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more, call 519-337-0507

Meditation Group Twin Bridges NPLC offering a meditation program suitable for anyone interested in guided mindfulness practice in a group format. Fridays until March 25. Held on Zoom. 11 am. to 11:45 a.m. To

register, visit www.tbnplc. com Day of Prayer St. Luke’s United Church hosting a World Day of Prayer event for Zone 1 churches. The subject is England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. 350 Indian Rd. S., 1:30 p.m. Accessible building. COVID rules in place. The service also streamed on St Luke’s Facebook and YouTube pages. For more, call 519344-1781

FINAL DEADLINE

MARCH 9!

Pancake Supper Point Edward Service Club serving all-you-caneat pancakes, sausage, coffee, tea, and juice. 503 Michigan Ave., 5 p.m. $8, children 5 and under free. For more, call 519-3379822 after 1 p.m.

Concert Sarnia Concert Association presents “Sophisticated Fusion: From Chopin to Jazz,” an evening of light classical and jazz music. Peter Stoll on clarinet/ saxophone and Adam Zukiewicz on piano. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $40 adults, $25 students, available at box office. For more, visit www. sarniaconcertassociation.ca

FRIDAY, MARCH 4

Gentle Yoga Twin Bridges offering a slow, gentle yoga program suitable for most abilities. Yoga mat and strap recommended. Fridays until March 25. Held on Zoom. 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. To register, visit www.tbnplc. com

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Chair Yoga Twin Bridges offering a yoga program of seated and standing positions and support of a chair to help with balance and flexibility. Tuesdays until March 29. Held on Zoom. 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. To register, visit www.tbnplc.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2

to help practice self-compassion and strengthen resilience. Thursdays until March 31. Held on Zoom. 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. To register, visit www.tbnplc.com

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Page 18

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Local

A FISH LEAPS from the water, spraying an arc of water as it tries to evade a group of hungry redhead ducks.

Ronny D’Haene

Fish feeding frenzy produces nature wildlife spectacle JOURNAL STAFF

uge numbers of birds have gathered on the St. Clair River near Corunna this month in scenes that might have been lifted from a National Geographic documentary. The ducks, geese and other hungry birds – as many as several thousand some days – are feasting on massive schools of shad fish swarming in open water at the mouth of Talfourd Creek, near the Shell Canada refinery. “There’s been a constant feeding frenzy for weeks and it’s made no difference in the number of fish still there,” said Sarnia photographer Ronny D’Haene, who has documented the spectacle.

ABOVE: A MALE canvasback duck dispatches a morning snack. RIGHT: REDHEAD DUCKS tussle each other for fish caught in the relatively warm water of Talfourd Creek, where it enters the St. Clair River near Corunna. Ronny D’Haene

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He’s recorded 10 species of ducks eating the silvery, herring-like shad and 13 individual bald eagles and three species of swans in the area. Though all the birds are proficient at fishing themselves they spend much of their time attempting to steal each other’s catch and quarrel over the spoils, he said. And it’s not just birds. D’Haene has watched at least one large tiger muskellunge, an apex predator of the fish world, scooped up both the shad and unsuspecting ducks as meals. His photos, shared online, have drawn people from across Southwestern Ontario to see the gathering. “It is a display of life at its fullest,” he said.

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Thursday, February 24, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

A MUTE swan snags a meal.

Local

Ronny D’Heane

Page 19

ABOVE: HEY YOU! A trumpeter swan reacts loudly after a duck snuck in and swiped back a fish it had originally caught and lost. LEFT: ONE MATURE bald eagle drives off another in a territorial dispute over fishing at the mouth of Talfourd Creek. Ronny D’Heane

A LARGE TIGER muskellunge surfaces in the open water of the St. Clair River with a mouthful of fish. Ronny D’Heane

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Page 20

The Sarnia Journal

Lives Lived

Death N Death Notices otices Recent Passings Up To February 16, 2022 D.J. ROBB FUNERAL HOME • • • • • •

Manchester, Linda (Feb 13, 2022) Loxton, Ronald (Feb 10, 2022) Randall, Alma (Feb 9, 2022) Dayman, Gerald (Feb 6, 2022) Gale, Helen (Feb 5, 2022) Hicks, Emily (Feb 4, 2022)

McCORMACK FUNERAL HOME • Thorpe, Toni-Lynn (Feb 8, 2022) • Hoffman, Donna (Feb 7, 2022)) McKENZIE & BLUNDY FUNERAL HOME • • • • • • • •

Ferrera, Giuseppe (Feb 16, 2022) Leal, Eduino (Feb 15, 2022) Loosemore, Bertha (Feb 14, 2022) Beauregard, Andree (Feb 11, 2022) McCauley, Barbara (Feb 10, 2022) Bouck, Bryan (Feb 10, 2022) Wood, Peter (Feb 9, 2022) Krasinkiewicz, Henry (Feb 9, 2022)

SMITH FUNERAL HOME • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Routliffe, Betty (Feb 16, 2022) Crossett, Bonita (Feb 15, 2022) McKinnon, Eleanor (Feb 14, 2022) Tomlinson, Gordon (Feb 14, 2022) Ellis, Audrey (Feb 14, 2022) Lakey, Lloyd (Feb 13, 2022) Marshall, Charles (Feb 11, 2022) Hamill, Geraldine (Feb 11, 2022) Grant, Kenneth (Feb 11, 2022) Bourgeois, Charles (Feb 10, 2022) Jackman, Jennifer (Feb 10, 2022) Barr, Cheryl (Feb 10, 2022) Fekken, Richard (Feb 10, 2022) Dubreuil, Christopher (Feb 10, 2022) King, Helen (Feb 9, 2022) Havelka, Peter (Feb 7, 2022) Burns, Phyllis (Feb 6, 2022) Rowcliffe, Ronald (Feb 6, 2022) McLaughlin, Scott (Feb 6, 2022) Yates, Robert (Feb 4, 2022) Mack, Linda (Feb 3, 2022)

SARNIA CREMATION SERVICES •

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Wigle, Betty (Feb 8, 2022)

This information is provided as a community service. For detailed information on the lives lived, please refer to the funeral home website listing.

Thank You Thank You

IN MEMORY OF MARK. L. NICKELS who passed away Jan 17 of this year

Many thanks to Bluewater Health Hospital on the 5th floor for their care and comfort shown to Mark on his final days. Special thanks to D.J. Robb Funeral Home for their outstanding help and support during that sad time. Also to the many friends and families for their cards, floral arrangements, e-mails, visits and donations to the Humane Society. A special thank you to Mayor Mike for your extended support and care . Thank you Mark for all the wonderful memories.

- Mary-Lou

Obituary

THORPE, Toni-Lynn

One-of-a-kind Toni-Lynn Thorpe passed away peacefully at the age of 71, with her soul mate by her side on February 8, 2022. She ultimately succumbed to the cancer, which is... well, cancer. The ferocity that she displayed through life remained ever present to the end. This is not a message to say goodbye; instead, it is a message of encouragement and embracing wonderful memories. Whether she was a kid pestering passing cars on a country road, out West searching for life's great questions, hobnobbing with Jersey's underworld... or just dancing with the love of her life in the kitchen, she was really out for one thing: to have a good time and make the most of this crazy thing we call life. A social chameleon of sorts, she found a way to touch many from all walks of life. She was a celebrator of differences, never judgmental, always loving, supporting, and encouraging. We like to measure accomplishments in our society, but her accomplishments transcend those typical indicators and are known in the lives that she touched. Toni, you will be truly missed and loved. So now is the time we celebrate you and your uniqueness as you would ours. The family wishes to thank the incredible staff on the 5th floor, Palliative Care Ward at Bluewater Health. Sooo much compassion and natural ability to comfort. There will be plans for a celebration later in the year. In the meantime, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Joseph's hospice: https://www.stjosephshospice. ca/make-a-difference/donate. "Thank you to Cameron of McCormack Funeral Home for his assistance and service."

MacLEOD, Gloria (nee Gloria Gail Barter)

March 04, 1943 - February 17, 2022

Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family. Born in Sherbrooke, QC to the late Avery Barter and Lillian King she is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, James; son Ryan (Lisa Britton); daughter Tanya (Christopher Sterparn); four precious grandchildren Ian, Evelyn, Connor and Caitlin; as well as loving siblings, aunt, nieces and nephews. A special thank-you is extended to Dr. Julie Lebert and Dr. Evan Lily as well the Palliative unit at Bluewater Health for their compassionate care. She appreciated daily visits by Theresa Thibert, R.N. Cremation has taken place. Celebration of Life will be held in Bury, Quebec. Neighbours and wonderful friends provided delicious meals/desserts along her cancer journey. Sympathy would be appreciated through donations to St. Joseph's Hospice, 475 Christina Street N., Sarnia, ON, N7T 5W3 (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia. Memories and condolences may be entered online to www.smithfuneralhome.com

Memoriam In loving memory of a cherished daughter, precious sister, and an ‘angel’ aunt, CASSIE LYNN MCNALLY, MCNALLY, who left us to live with Jesus, 5 years ago, on February 27, 1987. She was 5 1/2 years old. Dear Cassie, As the years have passed, our memories have not dimmed. We ache to see you and hold you tight. You are in our hearts, but we miss you so much It still hurts. But one day Jesus will make it all right. We are so thankful that God gifted us with you. Our lives are richer because you are ours. We hear your happy laugh. We see your beautiful smile, That still shines as brightly as the stars. God has blessed us with courage and strength. We have a life filled with joy and love. But our family circle won’t be quite complete Until we are with you in Heaven above. In Heaven there are only tears of joy. In Heaven there is no pain. We will share your pictures and stories, Until God calls us home to be with you again.

We miss you and love you so much - Daddy, Mommy, Candice, Chris, Charity, Shane, Maleah, Braxton, Alayna, Levin, Celina, Atticus and Shepherd.

In Loving Memory

Eugene “Gene” Smith July 8, 1941 - February 17, 2021

Gene, husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, leader, teacher, adventurer, story teller and friend to so many. Never to be forgotten and loved by many. Linda, Patrick, Tearza, Taryn, Owen, Hunter, Jim, family & friends

In loving memory of our dear little friend,

Kristel Leighann Lucan,

(daughter of Rick and Rita) who left us to live with Jesus, 35 years ago on February 22, 1987. She was 5 1/2 years old. Dear Kristel, The years have passed, but time cannot take away our memories. You are always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by Jim, Marie, Candice, Charity and families.

In Memory of

Terry McGowan May 21, 1941 - February 24, 2019 There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of you and miss you. I’ll always love you.

- Anne

July 26, 1960 - February 28, 2019 We miss you so much, especially when we see a turtle. Rest in Peace. Your Friends, Anne & Brenda

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Lives Lived

The Sarnia Journal

Community

Memoriam

JOHN MACZKO January 6th, 1941 - February 20th, 2015

In Loving Memory of a Dear Husband, Father and Grandfather who left us suddenly 7 years ago.

Page 21

Birthday

Happy 81st Birthday Sunny SONDRA WYONCH Wishing you a birthday as bright as your smile, as sweet as your love and as joyful as your spirit. We are so grateful to have a mom as wonderful as you. You are truly a gift to us all.

Remembering you is easy, I do it everyday. It’s just the pain of losing you that never goes away. Love and Miss You Marg, Mike, Doug, Derek & their Families

Y O U ARE FORE VE R YOUNG! Born April 7th, 1970 On Wednesday, February 13, 2019 Connie Lynn McDonald-Cook passed away at the age of 48 years. She is survived by her son Adam; her parents, Larry & Joyce McDonald; her brother, Wayne McDonald & nieces, Jamie McDonald, Jessica McDonald; nephews, Nicholas McDonald and two great nephews Ethan and Brody and one great niece, Leah; numerous Aunts, Uncles and cousins. She shall always be loved and missed by all.

With love and admiration your family and friends.

Free

Notice NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the estate of SHIRLEY ILONA HANAK

First come, first served Just help yourself!

Prayer PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN:

(Never known to fail): Oh most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me you are my Mother, Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (three times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you. Grateful thanks. A.M.

They are stacked near the loading door at: 322 Christina Street N, Sarnia, ON

Late of Sarnia, Ontario. Creditors and others having claims against the above estate are required to send full particulars of such claims to the undersigned Estate Trustee on or before the 31st day of March A.D. 2022 after which date the estate’s assets will be distributed, having regard only to claims that have been received. JAMES JOSEPH CARPENETO Barrister and Solicitor Estate Trustee 316 Christina St N, Sarnia, Ontario N7T 5V5

Spirit lifter

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN:

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE: May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved, throughout the world, now & forever. O Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us, St. Jude Worker of Miracles, Pray for us, St. Jude Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us, Amen. Say prayer 9 times a day, by the 8th day, the prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publishing must be promised. Z.P.M

THE IODE’S Honourable Malcolm Cameron Chapter in Sarnia recently dropped off a donation of chocolate and balloons to help raise the spirits of Bluewater Health staff in difficult times. Seen here are member Jan Casbour, left, and president Jayne Little. Submitted Photo

Page 22

The Sarnia Journal

Fun Stuff

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Brighten Someone’s Day

746 Exmouth St. - Sarnia 519-337-5491

Website:

flowersplus.com

We’re located: RIGHT X HERE!

For the answers to this week’s puzzles, see page 23

The Journal now offers a convenient home delivery option using Canada Post The cost for this option will be $1.50 per delivery, taxes included, with the paper delivered by Canada Post. This charge is a delivery fee to cover the cost of preparation, administration and mailing. Call our office at 519-491-5532 or email us at distribution@thesarniajournal.ca to get started!

There is a minimum commitment of 6 editions per order, non-refundable, at a cost of $9 taxes included.

Thursday, February 24, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

Page 23

Sports

Cricket club ponders future after pitch opened to others

TARA JEFFREY THE JOURNAL

he Sarnia Cricket Club is worried about the future of the sport locally following news it’s losing primary access to its longstanding home field. Sarnia Council agreed this month to finalize a new lease agreement with the Lambton Kent District School Board, which owns the land near Bright’s Grove that’s been home to Sarnia’s only cricket pitch for 35 years. The new lease requires that the field be open to other user groups in the community. “They weren’t very forward in their plans, and we were not involved in the negotiations,” club vice president Daniel Ostojic said of the city’s Outdoor Working Group. The group is responsible for the Outdoor Sports Field Allocation Policy — developed to support fair and equitable access to all publicly owned sports fields. “This group failed us in delivering its mandate and living up to its mission statement — excluding us from the decision-making process,” Ostojic said. The property is a five-acre plot beside Mike Weir Park and bound by Brigden Side Road and Lakeshore Road. It was

leased to the City in 1986, and subsequently sub-leased to the cricket club in 1987. The club has had first-right to use the facility, at no charge, and over the years has been the field’s sole user. “Given that the lease was entered into over three decades ago, (the school board) wishes to enter into a new lease agreement with updated terms and conditions to reflect current and future use of the property,” a staff report noted. “One of the terms included… is that the property be available for use by the whole community and not exclusively used by a single group or organization.” The current agreement is not in line with the best interests of the community, staff noted, “as it creates an inequity among cricket clubs/groups within the city and does not allow the one cricket field in the city to be accessed by any other use.” It isn’t the first time the club has been bumped from its home field, Ostojic said. “The club was forcefully removed form Germain Park and Blackwell Park in the ‘70’s. This type of behaviour is familiar to us.” Ostojic stressed the club has no problem sharing the field but felt excluded from the discussion. “We just wouldn’t mind [the city] being open with us first,”

SOME OF THE 2021 Sarnia Cricket Club members, next to the club’s pavilion. Back row, from left: Jomon Augustian, Akshaj Sachdevaa, Swaraj Senapati, Lucius Richard, Raif Khan, Srinath Palacharla, Anil Mathew, Kanish Ajj, Manpreet Singh, Sahil Salaria. Front row: Midhun Mohandas, Rajeev Radhakrishnan, Domin Sebastian, Aamir Khan.

he said. The 40-member club has grown over the years, especially among newcomers and international students at Lambton College Membership has increased since joining the United Friendly Cricket League in 2014, Ostojic said, pointing to championship titles in 2017, 2018 and 2020.

“Prior to this notice, the club planned to continue league play and use the groups, cooperating with Parks and Recreation for scheduling the pavilion for home games,” said Ostojic. “Any limitations placed on the club’s access to the field will restrict our availability to offer the game and service the community, as laid out in our constitution.”

City staff said they are working with Lambton College to determine future needs for the sport within the city, including whether additional cricket fields are required. “We will continue to work with the city and the school board,” Ostojic said. “Provided they’re interested to encourage more spaces for the game to be played.”

Arena capacity limits coming to an end

JOURNAL STAFF

arnia Sting home games at the Progressive Auto Sales Arena were expected to be at full capacity starting March 1. Ontario is planning to lift all capacity limits along with the provinces vaccination passport system on that date, provided public health indicators continue to improve.

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The Sting’s Feb. 25 home game against Flint was set for 50% arena capacity. Individual ticket and season ticket holders not able to attend previous games due to capacity restrictions will have a credit on their account for the value equal to those tickets, the organization said. Fans can

use that value to attend remaining 2022 regular season home games, subject to availability. Credits can be redeemed by contacting the Box Office in person or by phone at 519-541-1717, ext. 1.

Sarnia Girl’s Soccer Club 2022 Outdoor Registration

Online Registration NOW OPEN! U4/5 - U7: $125.00 U8 - U16/17/18: $160.00 Women’s 19+: $175.00

If interested in Team Sponsorship: $175.00 (Contact us by email)

In-person registration/Open House March 5 from 10am-1pm

CRF50F

MSRP $2,149+f/p+tax+lic

honda .ca

Email: info@wckhonda.com

584 St. Clair Parkway, Corunna

KEY REALTY

Independently Owned and Operated

Mario Fazio Wendy Fazio

Cell: 519.383.2566 | Home: 519.541.1344 E: wmfazio@outlook.com | W: www.mariofazio.on.ca

Sarnia Girl’s Soccer Club - P.O. Box 22062 Twin Lakes Postal Outlet - Sarnia, ON, N7S 6J4 Veterans Memorial Field

1540 Lottie Neely Park Rd., Sarnia - sarniagirlssoccer@gmail.com

See website for full details!

Page 24

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, February 24, 2022

BUSINESS OWNERS If you are interested in having your business as a pick up location for The Journal and be featured on this page, please give our office a call or email us at distribution@thesarniajournal.ca

PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY!

The Journal is available at these City locations: SARNIA, PT. EDWARD & BRIGHT’S GROVE LOCATIONS Pick Up a copy where you have Coffee

Pick Up a copy where you shop for Groceries • Real Canadian Superstore (located at customer service counter) • Food Basics • Kyle’s No Frills • Metro London Road • Metro Exmouth Street • Brights Grove Foodland • Davy Jones Confederation • Davy Jones Point Edward • Sarnia Produce Marketplace NEW

Pick Up a copy when you are Shopping • • • • • • • •

Giant Tiger London Rd Bluewater Home Hardware London Rd Wilson’s Rona Hardware Colborne Rd Rexall Pharmacy Cathcart Blvd vanGoozen Music Mitton St Flowers Plus Exmouth St Pharmasave London Rd North End Appliance Cathcart Blvd

• • • • • • • •

Coffee Lodge Exmouth Coffee Lodge Finch & Wellington Coffee Culture Front St Coffee Culture London Road Blackwater Christina St. Blackwater London Road Coffee Time Christina St John’s Restaurant London Line

Pick Up a copy when you are getting fuel or service • • • • • • •

Pioneer Gas Murphy Pioneer Gas Confederation Esso 189 Capel St Esso 1114 London Rd Esso 2097 London Line Mackenzie Oil Shell 1486 Plank Rd Krown Rust Control, Campbell St NEW

Pick Up a copy where you get food to go • Vick’s Corner Deli Christina St • Perry’s Fish & Chips East St N

Pick Up a copy when you are in a Rush • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

North Convenience Lakeshore Rd Rosedale Mini Mart Rosedale Ave Milk Mart Murphy Rd Milk Mart Indian Rd Uptown Variety Point Edward Variety SEO Mini Mart Colborne Mini Mart Big A Express Mart Star Mini Mart Vidal Variety Confederation Variety Wellington Convenience Sam’s Mini Mart Ontario Convenience London Rd Food Mart NEW Circle K Vidal & Confederation NEW

Copies are also available at • The Journal Office • The Sarnia Main Library

The Journal is available at these County locations: CORUNNA

PETROLIA

WYOMING

• Corunna Foodland 420 Lyndoch St • Chris’s No Frills 175 Bunker Ave • Corunna Home Hardware 372 Lyndoch St • Kens Mini Mart 572 St. Clair Pkwy

• Coffee Lodge 4119 Petrolia Line • Heidi’s Independent Grocer 4136 Petrolia Line • Hogan Pharmacy 4177 Petrolia Line • Family Discount Depot 4219 Petrolia Line • Hwy 21 Shell & Variety 4496 Petrolia Line • Heritage Variety & Esso 4495 Petrolia Line

• Wyoming Foodland 610 Broadway St • Paul Marley Pharmacy 607 Broadway St • Wyoming Dairy Mart 642 Broadway St

FOREST • Main Street Variety 10 Main St S • Forest Foodland 88 King St E • Pro Stop Convenience 91 King St E

REECES CORNERS • Petro Canada & Convenience 4509 London Line

The Sarnia Journal 519-491-5532 • 322 Christina St N. www.thesarniajournal.ca

PORT FRANKS/ KETTLE & STONY POINT • MacPhersons Restaurant 8512 Lakeshore Rd • Kettle & Stony Point Gas and Convenience 7119 Lakeshore Rd