The Sarnia Journal - June 16, 2022 by The Sarnia Journal

Vol. 9, Issue 16

Good stuff

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Thursday, June 16, 2022

Bad stuff

Welcome to Sarnia

Research study approved

Sewage lagoons at centre

TARA JEFFREY THE JOURNAL

to test cannabis therapy on local folks with dementia

new research study into the impact of cannabinoid therapy on local residents with dementia could be a ‘game changer’ says Dr. Blake Pearson. “We are officially up and running, which is exciting,” said Pearson, who, in partnership with Lambton College and Steeves & Rozema Nursing Homes has been awarded a three-year, $360,000 research grant by the National Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). “There was a lot of leg work just to get to this point, so now we can actually start the study, and we’ve enrolled our first patient.” The study will involve residents at three local Steeves & Rozema homes — Trillium Villa, Twin Lakes Terrace, Afton Park Place, and a fourth home in Windsor — to investigate the impact of cannabinoid therapy on dementia symptoms, behaviours and even caregiver distress. "This study has the potential to be a real game changer," said Pearson, the co-principal investigator with Lambton College lead researcher Dr. Mikelle Bryson-Campbell. "Not only are we excited by the impact this study could have within our community, but also on the millions of individuals living with dementia worldwide. "This is a real opportunity to showcase our leadership and innovation on a global scale.” Pearson, a Corunna native and family physician, is internationally recognized for his work in cannabis medicine and efforts to legitimize cannabinoid therapy as a safer alternative to opioids and anti-psychotic drugs.

Continued on 3

of odour complaints were sold by Sarnia in 2020

wo smelly sludge lagoons that have sparked countless complaints about a foul smell over the city were sold by Sarnia to a private company for $1 just two years ago. Sarnia council not only sold the 30-acre Scott Road Sewage Lagoon site to Brantford-based Wessuc Inc. for a buck, it also gave the company $1.7 million for remediation work, and another $100,000 towards an environmental assessment. A sewage stench arising from the site and described as “gaggingly bad” has had residents and politicians alike up in arms in recent weeks.

For more on the “big stink” please see page 4

CAMILA LOZOYA, 3, gets a high-five from Sarnia Sting mascot "Buzz" at the YMCA Learning & Career Centre during an 'All Are Welcome Here' celebration and BBQ on June 10. Lozoya and her mom Sonia Meave, looking on, arrived in Sarnia one month ago and say they love their new home. TARA JEFFREY The Journal

The lagoons were used to treat Sarnia’s municipal sewage until the treatment plant was upgraded in the early 2000s, confirmed David Jackson, the city’s manager of engineering and operations. The lagoons were never formally decommissioned and sat unused for about 20 years, he said. The property was originally an industrial dumpsite before Sarnia purchased it from Polymer Corporation in 1961. Contamination from the original dump was discovered near the surface in 2019, sparking “significant environmental concerns,” Jackson said. “There was the potential for very significant costs to deal with that contamination. That's when the idea came up to try to dispose of the site to avoid the financial risk related to that,” he said. Wessuc Inc.’s purchase of the property included the pipeline from the lagoon to the wastewater treatment plant. Continued on 3

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The Sarnia Journal

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Big Stink:

Continued from 1 The deal came with conditions. Sarnia agreed to pay $1.7 million over three years to remove existing biosolids from the lagoon, and $100,000 to complete an environmental assessment of the contamination.

Dementia:

Continued from 1 “Traditionally, anti-psychotic medications are used to manage the behaviours of dementia, and they’re just terrible drugs with very severe, well-known side effects,” he said. “And so the idea is, we improve the patients’ symptoms with cannabinoid medicine, and we’re able to reduce the anti-psychotics, which is a big win for the patients.” Pearson closed his family practice in 2018 to focus exclusively on cannabis-based medicine, becoming one of

The Sarnia Journal

“As part of the sale, we did contribute funds to remove the sludge material that was the city’s there before,” Jackson said. “And then why it was sold for a dollar, is, we were passing on that additional environmental study and remediation work to the new property owner to deal with.” Wessuc Inc. and its affiliated Shire Corporation specialize in the first doctors in Canada to do so. Locally, he treats dozens of elderly patients in long-term care each week, and fields referrals from across Ontario, which he’s able to do virtually. The study, he stressed, is not about healing or halting dementia. It’s about managing the behaviours associated with the disease — such as mood, calling out, agitation and trouble sleeping. “I’ll be treating the patients and practicing the medicine, while the research team collects the data with the long-term care home and the patient families,” he explained. They will also monitor the

Page 3

Local

the management of biosolids and tank and lagoon cleaning services for agricultural, municipal and industrial clients. The Sarnia operation is a waste disposal and transfer site. It includes two lined lagoons approved to receive and temporarily store organic waste materials, including sludge from human sewage. Wessuc was convicted last

Dr. Blake Pearson

caregiver burnout that often accompanies dementia patients. “We’re also hoping that with

Bright’s Grove farmland tagged for future housing development

JOURNAL STAFF

arnia council has designated a huge piece of land just south of Bright Grove as a settlement area for future housing in the city’s new Official Plan. The roughly 530 acres (215 hectares) lies south of Lakeshore Road between Waterworks and Brigden side roads, and includes large tracts of farmland and part of Huron Oaks Golf Course. Neither city staff nor the consultant preparing the Official Plan recommended the move. But a majority of councillors, supportive of the landowners, have said that Bright’s Grove is where people want to live.

“I’m not suggesting that 500 acres is going to be plowed under tomorrow and is going to be filled in. This is a gradual process.”

— George Vandenberg

Coun. George Vandenberg, a strong proponent, said it would be years before any development takes place there. “I’m not suggesting that 500 acres is going to be plowed under tomorrow and is going to be filled in. This is a gradual process,” he said. The agreement in principle was approved with two conditions - that a public meeting be held to hear from residents; and

August for three violations under the Environmental Protection Act for transferring soil conditioners to unapproved sites. It was fined $60,000 plus a victim surcharge of $15,000. The company has come under fire in recent weeks following complaints of an unbearable smell arising from the Scott Road site. Wessuc said it’s working with

the Ontario’s Environment Ministry to resolve the problem. “The odours are unacceptable,” said Jackson, noting it’s a provincial, not a municipal issue. “We are still doing our part to pressure the company to quickly implement mitigation measures to stop the odour.”

more data, that [cannabinoid therapy] will be covered for dementia patients. Right now, the families have to pay out of pocket… and that cost is a barrier to treatment.” “My hope is that this will just be even more evidence for what I see clinically — which is, that patients can improve their symptoms — those responsive behaviours,” he said. “And to build awareness within healthcare in general, about the safe, natural alternative to anti-psychotics.” While Pearson has seen an increase in physician uptake in recent years, the human endocannabinoid system still isn’t taught in medical school, Pearson noted.

“There’s still a long way to go. There’s some fundamental changes that need to happen in the curriculum to support more physical adoption as well,” said Pearson, who is committing $100,000 of his own funds to the project. “I’m just very passionate about this… I’ve seen the benefits first-hand,” he added. “It’s really exciting to be partnering with the college, and a local company like Steeves & Rozema, to do research that is going to be viewed on a global scale. “And to be able to do it from home — it’s pretty cool.”

that the priority for new housing there be mixed-use development to increase density and create more affordable housing. Council will host the meeting at City Hall on Monday, July 11 at 1 p.m., when residents can comment on the draft Official Plan. Comments can also be sent in writing via email to sarnia@ planpart.ca. City council is expected to vote on adoption of the new Official Plan on July 25 before forwarding it to Lambton County council, which has final approval authority. SARNIA COUNCIL HAS agreed, in principle, to designate the area in yellow for future housing development in Bright's Grove. City of Sarnia map

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Page 4

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, June 16, 2022

Local

Company says it’s working on sewage smell complaints

TARA JEFFREY THE JOURNAL

cott Williams hasn’t been able to open his windows for weeks. “It’s gaggingly bad here at times,” the Sarnia resident said of the persistent, foul odour linked to the Scott Road sludge lagoon and upsetting residents since April. “You can walk down the street and people are kind of turning their noses, not sure what’s going on,” Williams said. “If you open the windows and it hits you it’s like, literally, someone’s port-a-john dumped inside your home.” Complaints of the intense sewage odour have poured in to both the City of Sarnia and Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. The smell has carried across most of the city at some point, depending on wind direction. Brantford-based Wessuc Inc. and its affiliate Shire Corporation own the 30-acre Scott Road property and operate a waste disposal and transfer site there. It recently addressed resident concerns. “We do not take these complaints lightly and apologize for odours caused by our operations,” vice president

THE LAGOONS ARE located just off Scott Road, south of the CN Railyard.

Hank VanVeen stated in a letter to Mayor Mike Bradley and Sarnia council. “Organic waste operations can lead to odour.” The site is approved to receive and temporarily store organic waste. That includes treated sewage solids and spent corn syrup from a fermentation process, which can be applied to farmland as fertilizer, according to the Ministry. Sewage biosolids come from municipal wastewater treat-

ment facilities, which separate the liquid from the leftover solids. Solids go through an additional treatment process to reduce potentially harmful organisms, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. Sewage biosolids that don’t exceed the regulatory limits for contaminants, pathogens and odour are called non-agricultural source material (NASM) and can be applied to farmland. “The material is being stored at the lagoon facility until it can be moved to an agricultural site,” the company said. “Crop scheduling, crop type, growing period and water all play a role in determining when NASM is moved from storage to the agriculture site.” The lagoons were originally used as an industrial dump before the city purchased them from Polymer Cor-

City of Sarnia image

poration in 1961. They were converted to sludge lagoons for Sarnia’s wastewater treatment plant, but, following upgrades to the plant in the early 2000’s, were no longer required and the city never formally decommissioned them. In 2020, Wessuc Inc. agreed to purchase the property for $1, with the condition the city pay $1.7 million in remediation costs and $100,000 toward an environmental assessment. Spokesperson Gary Wheeler said Environment Ministry staff has been in regular contact with the company since April to address odour complaints, and were onsite as recently as June 5 to confirm odours were present. Recent efforts to reduce the smell include using straw coverage, limiting the number of loads coming in, and removing 11,000 cubic metres of material from the site. A storage tank was expected to arrive late last week, to be used to accept material and mix it to control odours before entering the

Since 2004

lagoons. Wessuc added they’ve applied one dose “of a product that reduces odour generation to both lagoons” and planned to repeat the process. “Additional plans include increasing the biodiversity on site, such as increased tree coverage to minimize surface to air interaction, and sourcing new pumping equipment to minimize material mixing during removal,” the company said. The issue was raised at last week’s Sarnia council meeting when Coun. George Vandenberg said he visited the area. “Whatever’s going on back there — the smell was overwhelming,” he said. “And there’s a lot of people talking about it and a lot of people don’t even want to sit on their porches anymore.” Williams, meanwhile, has sent complaints to the city, the ministry, and reached out to the company for answers. “I’m not trying to make a big stink about it,” he said. “I get it — business is business. “But a good community partner treats the area in which they operate as if it’s their own backyard — and that’s not happening here.”

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The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, June 16, 2022

Local

International students eyed as key to Sarnia’s future

TARA JEFFREY THE JOURNAL

arnia’s population is not getting any younger — or larger — and that’s a big problem, says Judith Morris. “We’re not growing at the rate the rest of the province… not even close,” said the interim CEO of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership and chair of the newly formed President’s Immigration

Taskforce. “The issue at hand is, how do we move that population dial up? And how do we keep our young people?” New Statistics Canada census data indicates Sarnia’s population grew just 0.6% from 2016 to 2021, with a median age of 46 compared to Ontario’s median age of 41.6. What’s more, 24.5% of Sarnia residents are aged 65 and over, compared to just 18.5% provincially.

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“The working age of 16-to-64 is about 63% for Sarnia-Lambton and 67% for Ontario — which is not great,” Morris added. “And we have a lot of young people, aged 18to-24, migrating out of Sarnia-Lambton, at a rate of -26%. That’s significantly higher than most places.” Such numbers spurred creation of the Task Force earlier this year. Its goal is to grow and diversity Sarnia-Lambton by integrating International students and attracting immigrants to help fill labour shortages. More than a dozen leaders have come together from local government, industry, business, trades, healthcare and education, and they include Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley, Lambton College president & CEO Rob Kardas, Kel-Gor director Matt Gordon, NOVA Chemicals VP Rob Thompson and others, Morris noted. “These are some folks who have a real influence… people who can make change and certainly get the word out,” she said. Yes, previous local efforts have tried to attract and retain new residents, she said. “But it’s not enough. It’s not changing the dial,” said Morris, noting the area needs net growth of 1,400 people annually just to keep up

A STRATEGY IS being developed to encourage international student graduates to continue living and working in Sarnia. Seen in this file photo are former Lambton College students Nandani Aggarwal, left, from India, and Andres Bustamante, from Venezuela. Troy Shantz file photo

with the province. “And when you look at areas like the trades, health and technology, we are in some really significant skills shortages. “So we looked to the college,” she added, noting half of Lambton’s students are young people from other countries. “These are very bright students, coming from a variety of places, most with degrees and diplomas already. So why wouldn’t we want to keep them here?” Surveys have found more The SarniaJournal than 90% of international LOCAL grads SPORTS Lambton would like stay SUBMIT YOUR and work in Your Local Independent Newspaper

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Page 8

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, June 16, 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

Support the new ‘war effort,’ support Save Ukraine STEPHEN BRIGHT

y first time seeing charity in action was the winter of 1957, while having a hot chocolate and Danish pastry with my mother in a coffee shop. Seeing a shabbily dressed man drinking coffee at the lunch counter, she called over the waitress, passed her a handful of change, and said, “Here, give that old Johnny a sandwich and a bowl of soup.” “Old Johnny” was a term for a vet; one of the many men broken from time fighting in the Second World War. Today we say “disabled.” At that time in Canada we also saw many Hungarian refugees escaping an invasion of their homeland by the Soviet Union. I thought these people came from a

country called “Hungry,” hence their immigration to Canada. I learned early in life that Canada was a sanctuary for people fleeing war, a safe patchwork quilt of nations united in peace. So it came as no surprise when my mother said for her 90th birthday, “No gifts please, let’s all donate money to a Ukrainian refugee fund.” It was an appropriate gesture for a woman who spent the war waiting for her father, Sergeant Frank Proctor, to return home after liberating the Netherlands from Nazi occupation. This continuing narrative of Canadians stepping up to “be the change you wish to see in the world” (Mahatma Gandhi) has resurfaced in the group known as Save Ukraine – Sarnia and Lambton County. A young Finnish wom-

STEPHEN BRIGHT, and his painting entitled Russian Warship.

an armed and fighting from the front lines in Ukraine said, “If you’re not doing something to support Ukraine, you’re complicit with the Russian invasion.” Powerful words from a brave soldier, but true.

A Jewish teenager, Anne Frank, wrote in her diary: “No one ever became poor by giving.” My grandfather, Frank Proctor, said to his wife: “I’m going to Europe to stop a bad man from killing the Jewish people,” and

the next 55 years, with time gaps devoted to university and chasing girls. Primarily I collected rare stamps in mint (unused) condition, buying from many companies. It was a constant source of amazement to my work colleagues that the value of stamps sent to me “on approval” often amounted to thousands of dollars. “Stamp dealers are trusting people,” I would explain to those surprised by the practise. The most skeptical, however, turned out to be Canada Customs. In the days before 9/11 I kept a large post office box at a U.S. post office. I would pop over every few weeks and recover a mountain of mail, which I’d toss onto the back seat, leaving it to be sorted once I got home. But one morning I was

directed into Secondary at Customs and an officer began combing through my mail. “What’s this?” he demanded, holding aloft a fat manila envelope. As it turned out, the envelope contained more than $10,000 worth of stamps “on approval.” Attempts to explain the process to Customs officers proved futile. “No company would be that trusting,” I was told. The officer was convinced he had captured a major smuggler in the act. Twenty years later I am no longer a stamp collector – although I still get suspicious looks when I cross the border.

Submitted Image

left her and five children for five years to serve in the Canadian Medical Corp. My father’s brother died when his Corvette was sunk in the North Atlantic while escorting a convoy of grain ships bound for England.

In those days it was called “the war effort.” Today we have an opportunity, a challenge, and an obligation in a new war effort, to punch Putin the face, to sink a battleship, give a middle finger to Russia’s invasion of a free and democratic country, and to protest the rape and murder of innocent civilians by supporting the Save Ukraine task force. As Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of committed people change the world. In fact, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Slava Ukraini! For more, and to help, see the 1,900-member Save Ukraine – Sarnia and Lambton County, on Facebook. Stephen Bright is a Sarnia artist who supports a number of charities through the donation of his art.

Postage stamp dealers the world’s most trusting people

hen I was nine or ten and living near Christina and Devine streets I would often trade comic books with a pal named Pat Ryan. Pat lived across from Sam Lampel’s junkyard (now Rainbow Park), on Christina Street. It was inside one of Pat’s comic books that I discovered the Garcelon Stamp Company, located in St. Stephen, New Brunswick. An ad from Garcelon advertised a free bag of 1,000 used postage stamps to anyone who wrote to the company – which I promptly did. My father had collected stamps for years and, back in the 1950s, many of my schoolmates were also collectors. Ralph Garcelon had discovered he enjoyed buying and selling stamps more

PHIL

EGAN

than just collecting them, and started his business in 1932. It began in a room on the family farm, and by the 1950s he had his own building and more than 60 employees. At its peak, Garcelon employed 150 in a town of 3,500 residents. Along with my 1,000 free stamps came a selection of “stamps on approval.” This included multiple glassine sets of stamps from various countries. Each glassine was overprinted with information about the stamp and the price. You selected the ones you wanted to keep, and returned the rest with payment for those you were keeping. I collected stamps for

Journal

The Sarnia

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Published by The Sarnia Journal PO Box 22045, 322 Christina St N. Sarnia, ON N7S 6J4 Telephone: 519-491-5532 • Fax: 519-491-2352

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Got an interesting tale? Contact columnist Phil Egan at philegan@cogeco. ca

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Thursday, June 16, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

Page 9

Letters

Health tax applied unevenly, low-income earners pay more

Sir: A significant (but unrecognized) inequity exists in the Ontario Health Premium (tax) introduced back in the Dalton McGuinty era, one that penalizes those in the most vulnerable category. Most taxpayers won’t recognize the inequity if they have third-party tax preparation or do their taxes electronically.

For some reason, there are eleven different taxable categories with varying percentage rates that cause those who can least afford it, to pay the

Sir: I am baffled by the reluctance of City Hall staff, their consultant, and some councillors to allow development of a parcel of land in Bright's Grove and expand Sarnia's urban boundary. Yes, I understand the concept of urban sprawl, but to me this move is actually the opposite. It provides opportunities for creating a more viable, walkable community in Bright's Grove, one accessible for all ages and income levels, especially with the

Sir: The daily reports of death and destruction in Ukraine evoke a righteous anger in many, and a desire to do something to help ease the suffering. At a meeting in March, Bethel Pentecostal Pastor Tim Gibbs, MP Marilyn Gladu and Dr. Cassandra Taylor highlighted local connections to Ukraine, and the opportunity to assist families fleeing the war to relocate in Lambton County. The experience of bringing Ukrainian families to Canada has been slow and tedious, but the Canadian government has lowered the bar to expedite resettlement of this unprecedented wave of displaced people. At Trinity Anglican Church in Sarnia, Rev

most. For example, someone earning taxable income between $20,000 and $25,000 contribute in the range of $240 to $300 per year. As each category increases by taxable ranges, the percentage they pay decreases exponentially. For example, someone earning taxable income between $48,000 and $72,000 pays a flat rate

of $600. But if they paid the same percentage rate as the lowest category, they would pay $864 – a difference of $264. Our MPPs currently earn $116,500. Assuming that is their taxable income, they contribute $750 per year. If they paid the same percentage rate as the lowest category they would pay $1,398 – a difference of $648 a year.

Incidentally, Premier Doug Ford, who is paid $208,974, pays only $900, the top rate for anyone earning over $206,000 annually in Ontario. It’s about time this inequity is addressed (eh, Bob Bailey). Reduce the percentage to a single rate so that all taxpayers pay according to their taxable income. Also consider raising

the minimum rate for taxation on the most vulnerable to $35,000 to $40,000. This would include young wage earners who could put the money toward affordable housing, food, etc., and those seniors on a fixed income.

introduction of mixed-use residential housing. As for the city’s consultant predicting Lambton County planners won’t be happy about council’s decision, I would note those same planners had no problem allowing what seems like unfettered growth in Plympton-Wyoming. The lack of corresponding commercial development there also encourages car dependence. I would also point out this added development area in Bright's Grove

creates an opportunity for new infrastructure, such as a wastewater treatment plant that could potentially serve Lakeshore Road homes currently on septic systems, which we know are a risk to the health of Lake Huron. Therefore, this expansion of Bright's Grove should be looked upon as an opportunity long overdo. Respectfully submitted,

longer. It’s surprising there’s any biodiversity left, given the constant strife inflicted by the most consuming species that’s ever existed. When visiting a cottage or camping we marvel at the wonder: fireflies, tree frogs, snakes, praying mantis, etc. But all these creatures once lived where our homes now sit. Our landscapes look pretty, but for birds and insects they are akin to a buffet at which plates and cutlery are provided,

but no food. There are countless opportunities for integrating native material into a yard, regardless of the space available. And while some native plants might be considered unattractive or invasive, many are not. I challenge all members of our community to give our impact on the environment half the attention given to watching gas prices.

Canon Vicars Hodge brought the need to the Parish Council and the congregation. The result was an overwhelming desire to contribute financially, and two families offered to share their homes. Although Canada has allowed Ukrainians to stay and work for three years, the financial obligation is borne by local sponsors. About $25,000 of the estimated $35,000 needed to house, feed and support two families for the first year has been promised. An appeal for a microwave and fridge to set up a basement kitchen was met overnight, and the first family, a mother and two pre-teen boys, arrived June 1. Marilyn Gladu’s office

has been helpful, and Johnathan Verroen a Sarnia man on the ground in Ukraine, has made contacts and facilitated biometrics and paperwork. We are looking for additional donations and volunteers to drive and help families navigate Canadian systems and integrate into society. If you would like to help, or make a financial donation, contact Trinity Church at 519-542-9261, or email trinity@trinitysarnia.org. All donors will be issued a tax receipt. We can’t stop the war, but we can make a difference in the lives of some of those impacted.

Sir: Imagine leaving your home for a vacation and returning to find it gone, levelled, cleared out. We’d lose our minds and demand answers. But the piles of trees and vegetation we see piled up along our roads and highways with alarming frequency were also once homes. Maybe not semi-detached or condos, but homes nonetheless. Subdivisions are pushed over and piled and prepared for burning. Take a moment and think about that. They were homes for others that share the planet. As a result, returning birdlife finds only emptiness. They can’t stay with relatives or be put up in a motel while the insurance company sorts out restitution. I find it distressing how detached society has become from nature, and our impact on it every day. Why is it that activities we deem progress come at the expense of the ecosystem. We fill ditches, push down woodlots, “thin” out large trees, spray for weeds, and then wonder why we don’t see frogs, turtles and swallow any

— Paul Hornblower Sarnia

Bright’s Grove development long overdo Humans causing tsunami of habitat loss

— Susan MacFarlane Bright’s Grove

Church assisting Ukrainian immigrants

— Mike Tanner Sarnia

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Page 10

The Sarnia Journal

Local

SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER

Municipal Act, 2001 Ontario Regulation 181/03 Municipal Tax Sales Rules THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF SARNIA TAKE NOTICE that tenders are invited for the purchase of the lands described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time on July 12, 2022 in the Customer Service Centre located on the first floor in Sarnia City Hall. The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day as soon as possible after 3:00 p.m. at City Hall, 255 Christina Street North, Sarnia in the Council Chambers. Bidders are encouraged to submit tenders in person at the Customer Service desk at City Hall, by registered mail or by courier. The following properties were subject to previous advertising for a tax sale that was scheduled for tender openings on May 10, 2022 but was subsequently postponed in accordance with the Municipal Act, 2001, Ontario Regulation 181/03, Municipal Tax Sale Rules, Section 22(1). This is a rescheduled tax sale as per section 22(2) under the Municipal Tax Sales Rules. Description of Land(s): Roll #38 29 200 035 03600, PIN 43140-0182 (LT) PT LT 42-43 CON 9 AKA FRONT CON SARNIA TOWNSHIP AS IN L755981; SARNIA; municipally known as 1616-1620 Blackwell Road, Sarnia Minimum Tender Amount: $344,113.61 According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $200,000 Roll #38 29 400 004 05000; PIN 43270-0048 (LT) LT 9 E/S CHRISTINA ST PL 16 ½ SARNIA CITY; SARNIA; municipally known as 252-256 Christina Street South, Sarnia Minimum Tender Amount: $118,987.80 According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $97,000 Roll #38 29 400 021 05400; PIN 43275-0035 (LT) PT LT 7 RANGE 8 PL 16 ½ SARNIA CITY AS IN L832404; SARNIA; municipally known as 419 Confederation Street, Sarnia Minimum Tender Amount: $13,961.87 According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $29,500 Roll #38 29 400 018 04500; PIN 43255-0163 (LT) W 35 FT LT 56 PL 77 SARNIA CITY; SARNIA; municipally known as 390 Devine Street, Sarnia Minimum Tender Amount: $23,849.72 According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $85,000 Roll #38 29 300 006 02600; PIN 43262-0034 (LT) PT LT 3 BLK D PL 3 SARNIA CITY AS IN L696338; SARNIA; municipally known as 114 Dundas Street, Sarnia Minimum Tender Amount: $22,222.45 According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $127,000 Tenders must be submitted in the prescribed form along with the address or roll number of the property noted on the outside of the envelope and must be accompanied by a deposit of at least 20 per cent of the tender amount, which deposit shall be made by way of a certified cheque/bank draft/ money order payable to the municipality. Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to, existing interests in favour of the Crown, environmental concerns or any other matters relating to the lands to be sold. Any existing Federal or Provincial Crown liens or executions will remain on title and may become the responsibility of the potential purchaser. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers. The assessed value, according to the last returned assessment roll, may or may not be representative of the current market value of the property.

Thursday, June 16, 2022

Weekly trivia challenge

- The Florence Nightingale Med1which al is presented to members of Pride Rock is a location in profession? 82019-which 1994 Disney film and its remake? As of June 1, Derek Davis as2-sumed what position in Sarnia? - What Belgian book series 9 became a long-running cartoon - Condensation is the conversion series about blue people who were 3of matter? of a vapour or gas to which state only “three apples tall”? - Which mountain range - Corunna native Rob Thomson 10straddles the border between 4was recently named the manager France and Spain (and shares its of what Philadelphia sports team?

“Black gold” is a nickname of 5-which beluga roe delicacy? - Which singer's song “Shape 6be streamed of You” is the first song to three billion times on Spotify?

What virus is often called “The 7-Kissing Disease”?

name with a dog breed)?

— Tom St. Amand (Column #358) ANSWERS: 1 – Nursing; 2 Police Chief; 3 – Liquid; 4 - Philadelphia Phillies; 5 – Caviar; 6 Ed Sheeran; 7 – Mononucleosis; 8 - Lion King; 9 - The Smurfs; 10 – Pyrenees.

Music Festival winners announced

welve participants at this year’s Lambton County Music Festival were chosen to advance to the provincial competition. The festival’s 91st competition attracted 81 contestants and 170 entries, and awarded more than $10,000 in awards and scholarships. Adjudicators advanced six local vocalists to the Ontario Music Festival Association finals: Zoey Ryan, Karissa Kern, Noah Leonard,

Meghan Taylor, Joshua Gibson and Shayanne de Boer. Four pianists were selected: Samuel Courtney, Olivia Courtney, Kyle Charlton and Lin Qi Core; as were two string players: Hannah Colquhoun and Daniel Gomez. For a full list of results visit www. lambtonmusicfest.org/Schedule The local festival was held virtually but is planning a return to in-person competition in 2023.

Sarnia not growing, but the sign is

proposed waterfront “SARNIA” sign has been upsized after council approved larger, illuminated letters for the fixture coming to Centennial Park. The block-letter style design, made popular in cities like Toronto and Ottawa, will now have six-foot letters – up from four-foot - made of polycarbonate, internally illuminated, and able to be programmed for different events and functions. The upgraded design and instal-

lation will cost about $130,000. Imperial Oil is providing $55,000, and the difference will be funded from an entrance sign budget, staff noted. Public consultations on the final design and location will begin soon, via Speak Up Sarnia. Council also approved the removal of two community sign boards, located at Front and Exmouth Streets, and the Sun Avenue Curve.

Seasonal Power & Sailboat Dock Rentals

This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. The successful purchaser will be required to pay the amount tendered plus water arrears, accumulated taxes and any taxes that may be applicable, such as a land transfer tax and HST. The municipality has no obligation to provide vacant possession to the successful purchaser. A copy of the prescribed form of tender is available on the web site of the Government of Ontario Central Forms Repository under the listing for the Ministry of Municipal Affairs. Further information regarding this sale and a copy of the prescribed form of tender can be viewed on the City of Sarnia web site www.sarnia.ca/living-here/my-taxes/tax-sales/ or if no internet access available, contact: Angie Dixon, Law Clerk, The Corporation of the City of Sarnia 255 Christina Street North, P.O. Box 3018, Sarnia, ON N7T 7N2 (519) 332-0330, Ext. 3333 angie.dixon@sarnia.ca

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Page 12

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, June 16, 2022

Local

New, bigger Humane Society approved on parkland CATHY DOBSON THE JOURNAL

t’s paws-itively good news for Sarnia’s strays. City council’s unanimous support for a new animal shelter clears the way for a larger facility with services not possible at the current one, says Donna Pyette, manager of the Sarnia & District Humane Society. The shelter at the corner of Exmouth Street and Harbour Road is 39 years old and too cramped to serve the 3,000 animals that come into care each year, she said. The building has structural problems, high maintenance costs, heating and cooling issues, and is on a lot too small for expansion, council was told last week. Following a public meeting, council approved regulatory amendments to permit the new shelter immediately east of the current one in Centennial Park. What’s proposed is a land swap that will see the current shelter demolished – at the

Human Society’s expense - and the empty lot returned to the city. In return, the city will enter a lease agreement with the Society for 8,862 square metres (2.19 acres) of currently empty parkland just to the east, fronting Exmouth and between Front Street and Harbour Road. The current design is for an L-shaped, one-storey building. It would provide new amenities, such as a pet supply store selling gently used donated items, a cat café, a veterinary surgical unit for shelter animals, a self-serve dog grooming station, and indoor/outdoor dog kennels for day use only. A third party would operate the cat café and offer coffee and snacks to patrons as they watch cats behind a glass wall, Pyette explained. Cat cafes are proven stress-relievers and can help increase adoptions. The existing shelter was built in 1983 and has served the community well, said Pyette. But it lacks space for animals, volunteers, staff, and visitors. While its air quality meets minimum standards the risk of airborne disease is high,

ARTIST CONCEPT OF the new and larger Humane Society building proposed for Centennial Park. Courtesy, Robert E. Dale Engineering Consultants

she said. “In short, our facility is busting at the seams…how we treat animals is a direct reflection of our community and our humanity,” Pyette added. Mayor Mike Bradley said he had reservations about leasing city-owned parkland and asked if the Humane Society has considered other locations. Several other sites were assessed including Germain Park and lands in the Modeland Road area, Pyette said. “But they did not pan out.” Centennial Park also provides

volunteers with a safe space to walk shelter dogs, she said. The site is currently parkland but is identified for development in the waterfront masterplan, according to a staff report that recommended approval. “I support this with some reluctance, because of the parkland,” Mayor Bradley said. “But the arguments are quite compelling and I don’t see any (other) viable options.” The number of animals served by the shelter has doubled over the past 10 to 15 years and could increase again when

the Glencoe animal shelter shuts down, noted Coun. Bill Dennis who read a statement in support. A new lease agreement must be reached first and a site plan approved for buffering, landscaping, exterior lighting and drainage. Construction costs in 2021 were estimates at $2 million to $2.5 million. Shelter officials said a public fundraising campaign would begin once final approval is received.

seafood.

formed last month and so far has the support of 14 downtown business owners, said Service. About half are in retail and the others own bars and restaurants. The International Symphony Orchestra (ISO), which is headquartered downtown, took a lead role in providing entertainment on Christina Street walkabouts during the pandemic and is involved in the new effort. The Chamber of Commerce recently sent letters to all downtown merchants to gather more feedback, Service said. “Our goal is that all will participate and I’m quite sure that, when they see the benefits, they will participate.” The committee sees this summer’s walkabouts as the first step toward much larger annual tourism events, he said.

Coun. Mike Stark was the lone councillor to vote against the street closure. It’s reasonable to hold a downtown event on the sidewalk but it’s not “appropriate” to ask residents to give up access to a main downtown street, Stark said. Others praised the new committee and supported the approach. “I like that it’s only three weekends as opposed to the whole summer,” said Coun. Terry Burrell. “It’s a good move and should work out well.” Coun. Bill Dennis commended the group for trying something different. “Yes, in the past it wasn’t an overly huge success but that doesn’t mean we give up. Giving up is for those without vision or commitment,” he said in a prepared statement.

New-look weekend walkabouts return to downtown Sarnia

Each weekend will feature live music, First Friday cultural activities, Saturday theme events, and Sunday car shows. arnia’s tradition of weekThe concept is a new version end walkabouts is getting a of the weekly summer street reboot, with a trio of events closures that took place during planned for the downtown this the pandemic, which proved summer. unpopular with some business Council voted 8-1 last week owners who found closing to allow Christina Street to be Christina Street discouraged closed to vehicle traffic one retail shopping. weekend each month to allow The three Saturday themes family-friendly activities and this summer are: live entertainment organized by * Dog Days of Summer, July downtown business owners and 9, a pet-welcome day with play the local Chamber of Comareas, displays and vendors, the merce. Humane Society, and Fox and Hound. * Market and Art Walk, Aug. 6, featuring artists and crafts. REG No. 50025867 * Sarnia Food Festival, Plan to Travel in 2022 Sept. 3, offering local signath ture foods, cultural fare and July 7

CATHY DOBSON THE JOURNAL

Walters Theatre - Country Classics

Aug 18th

Walters Theatre - Tribute to ABBA

Oct 4 - 6 th

Shipshewana Featuring Daniel O’Donnell

Oct 24th - 31st

Pigeon Forge and Nashville

Mike Service, the owner of Night Life Bistro and Jazz Lounge on Christina Street, spoke to council last week on behalf of the 2022 Summer Walkabout planning committee. “We lost a lot during COVID, “ he said. “Businesses are not where they were – I know mine is not.” Service said weekly street closures of the past had limited success at encouraging businesses to expand onto the road and bringing more people downtown. “There were a lot of lessons learned,” he said. Each walkabout weekend this summer will see Christina Street closed from 4 p.m. Friday to 6 p.m. Sunday. The planning committee was

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Page 13

Page 14

The Sarnia Journal

Local

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.

THURSDAY, JUNE 16 Golf Tournament The Brain Injury Association of Sarnia-Lambton is holding its annual Charity Golf Tournament at Widder Station Golf, Thedford, 8395 Decker Rd. 10 a.m. shotgun start. $225 individual or $750 foursome. Includes cart, swag bag, lunch, dinner, prizes, contests, and silent auction. For info and registration, visit sarniabiasl. ca or the BIASL Facebook page Ham Dinner Last day to order London Road West United Church’s Ham Dinner. Includes ham, beans, baked potato, coleslaw,

What’s Happening strawberry shortcake. $20 adults, $8 children 5-12. Curbside pickup or delivery upon request on June 24, 2092 London Line, 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. To order, call Susan 519-869-6281, email lrwunitedchurch@gmail. com or leave a message at 519-542-2084 Estate Planning Chelsea Cooper and Sarah Craig of Great Lakes Law will speak about legal considerations for estate planning and estate administration. Q&A to follow. St Giles Presbyterian Church, 770 Lakeshore Rd., 7 p.m. To register, call 519-5422253 SATURDAY, JUNE 18 Yard Sale Yard sale and hot dog stand, with partial proceeds to support the Humane Society. Green Haven Estates, 1940 London Line, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more, call Joyce at 519-542-4803

You're Invited!

Garage Sale The Terry Fox Committee is hosting a garage sale, rain or shine. 623 Esser Dr., 8 a.m. For more information or to donate, call 519-332-9886 SATURDAY, JUNE 18 Museum Exhibits Plympton-Wyoming Museum presents two new military exhibits: Canada’s raid on Dieppe and Canada’s Role in the five-Year Battle of the Atlantic. 6745 Camlachie Rd. Open Saturdays, June to August, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Sundays, July to August, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. For more, visit www. plymptonwyomingmuseum.ca

Bike Safety Optimist Club of Moore holding a free Bicycle Rodeo and Safety Day for children up to age 12. Corunna Legion, 350 Albert St., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Includes bike inspection, obstacle courses, hot dogs, firetruck, OPP. cruiser, and free draw for new bikes. For more, visit www.MooreOptimist. com Garage Sale The Children’s Auxiliary of Bluewater Health is hosting a Charity Garage Sale with proceeds to the Maternal/Infant/Child Unit. 610 Highbury Park, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. For more, call 519-464-4408 SUNDAY, JUNE 19 Boys’ Home events The Huron House Boys’ Home annual Run/ Walk/Skate/Bike returns as an in-person event on

Fathers Day at Mike Weir Park. Run, walk, rollerblade or bike various distances. Pancake breakfast and free events for children. Remote option available. For more or to register visit hhbh.ca/ events, email hvallinga@ hhbh.ca or call 519-8694000 Father’s Day BBQ At the Point Edward Service Club, featuring hamburgers, hot dogs, salad, baked beans and strawberry shortcake. All welcome. 5 p.m. Tickets $12, kids under 7 free. On the patio weather permitting. Take out available. For more, call 519-3379822 after 1p.m. MONDAY, JUNE 20 Open Stage Hosted by local singer-songwriters, Gregger Botting and John Pilat, Open Stage offers musicians, poets, storytellers and writers a chance to perform in a quiet, intimate setting. House piano and guitar available. Audience members welcome. 7 p.m., the Lawrence House, 127 Christina St. S. Free admission, for more, call 519-337-0507, https:// lawrencehouse.ca Sounds of Summer Sarnia’s outdoor Concert Series, featuring Rob Dickson (Classic Rock/ Blues)! Beginning at 7 p.m. at the Seaway Kiwanis Wedding Pavilion in Canatara Park. Free admission. Bring your own lawn chair. For more, visit https://calendar.sarnia.ca/. Hard copies of the full schedule available at City Hall. TUESDAY, JUNE 21

criedstra@cmhalambtonkent.ca

Petrochem Event Two-day forum in Sarnia bringing together industry, government and academic leaders, at the Sarnia Pat Stapleton Arena. Speakers, conferences and exhibitions, addressing the issues of climate change and sustainability.

Thursday, June 16, 2022

For a full list of activities, visit petrochemcanada. com Aquarium Society The Sarnia Aquarium Society has resumed in-person meetings at the Sarnia Christian School, 1273 Exmouth St. (enter off Pontiac Drive), 7:30 p.m. Enthusiastic fresh-water aquarium hobbyists gather to share knowledge and information. Open to all. For more, visit www. sarniaaquariumsociety. com or call Bob at 519331-0568 or Jack at 519542-8282 Health Programs West Lambton Community Health Centre offers a variety of free health promotion programming open to everyone. Includes low impact exercise, yoga, tai chi, mental wellness, nutritious eating programs, and more. For more, contact 519-344-3017 ext. 237 or adinell@nlchc. com, or visit www.nlchc. com or Facebook 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

https://calendar.sarnia. ca/. Hard copies of the full schedule available at City Hall Walking Group Twin Bridges offering a walking group for those looking for social movement and a view of the waterfront path. Wednesdays until June 29. Weather dependent. 153 Christina St. S., 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. To register, visit www.tbnplc.com THURSDAY, JUNE 23 Sounds of Summer Sarnia’s Outdoor Concert Series, featuring Little Town (Blues/Rock). Beginning at 7 p.m. at Paul Blundy Park (located across from Coffee Culture on Front Street). Free admission. Bring your own lawn chair. For more, visit https://calendar. sarnia.ca/. Hard copies of the full schedule available at City Hall FRIDAY, JUNE 24 Stress Management Rapids Family Health Team presents a free, twohour workshop on how to effectively manage stress. 1150 Pontiac Dr., 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. To register, call 519-339-8949 SATURDAY, JUNE 25

Fashion Show Last day to RSVP for the June 28 Wellings of Corunna Fashion Show. 180 Bunker Ave. Open for shopping 11 a.m., fashion show 1 p.m. $5 entry or $20 lunch and entry. Featuring fashions, licensed bar, door prizes. Petite and plus sizes available. Tickets available on Eventbrite or call 226778-0539

Canada Day Bright’s Grove Optimist Club celebrating Canada Day at Wildwood Park with food, kid’s rides and live music from the Celtic Hillbillies, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Parade from Wildwood Park to Kenwick Park begins 11 a.m. For more, visit the club’s Facebook page or www. brightsgroveoptimists. com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22

Book Sale Laurel Lea-St Matthews Church holding a book sale featuring a variety of children and adult paperbacks and hardcovers, magazines, VHS and DVDs. 9 a.m. to 12 noon, 837 Exmouth St, 519337-7078

Sounds of Summer Sarnia’s Outdoor Concert Series, featuring Joan Spalding and Doug Springstead. Beginning 7 p.m. at the Gazebo in Kenwick Park. Free admission. Bring your own lawn chair. For more, visit

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Thursday, June 16, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

School rallies to fix playground

TARA JEFFREY THE JOURNAL

he smallest of King George’s ‘Knights’ deserve much more in a schoolyard, says Adam Carswell. “I’ve been a principal since 2006 and I’ve never seen a worse playground,” he said of the outdoor kindergarten area. “It’s just a mud pit out here some days. A lot of the time the kids can’t even come out at all.” The kindergarten play area is largely packed dirt with no play equipment and drainage problems that leave it in poor condition throughout the school year. “This yard does not meet the needs of all our little Knights — both physical and developmental,” said kindergarten teacher Freya Bartelen, who has pushed for improvements for years. The Sarnia school’s growing kindergarten population is expected to reach 60 this fall, and some students require walkers and VON nurse support. “But if it rains or snows — these kids, they’re just stuck,” she said. After arriving in January, Carswell, Bartelen and other teachers formed a committee to address the need for both a new kindergarten

playground and an outdoor classroom. “We approached the (Lambton Kent District School) Board and they said, ‘If you can fundraise for the actual play equipment, we’ll help with the rest,” said Carswell. Drainage improvements and the installation of artificial turf are set to begin this summer. The group began fundraising in March and set a lofty goal of $40,000. A Spring Celebration was held in May, featuring live bands, vendors, classic cars, prizes and more. Students from each class assembled gift baskets for auction while donations poured in from local businesses. Nearly $20,000 was raised that day alone. “I challenged our staff to get involved and we’ve had 100% participation,” said Carswell. “This whole fundraising campaign is just indicative of the generosity of the whole school community.” Planning is also underway for the proposed K-8 outdoor classroom. With new outdoor Wi-Fi access, it will be a place where students can “write, read, present a math lesson, or conduct a messy science demonstration,” Carswell said. “There’s a lot to benefit from just being outside. Not just physically, but especially for our mental health.”

STUDENTS AND STAFF at King George VI Public School in Sarnia are working hard to fundraise for much-needed playground upgrades, as well as a new K-8 outdoor classroom. Pictured are, from left, student Easton Oetting, teacher Freya Bartelen, student Reese Dasilva, principal Adam Carswell and student Kingston Johnston. TARA JEFFREY The Journal

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Page 15

Local

AN OPEN LETTER TO:

Antler River Watershed Regional Council The United Church of Canada PO Box 100 Carlisle, Ontario, L0R 1H0

AND

St. Paul’s United Church 360 Devine Street Sarnia, Ontario N7T 1V1

Re: Tom Hennessey – South Sarnia Church and Enrichment Centre and the Evolution of St. Paul’s United Church located at 360 Devine Street, Sarnia, Ontario With respect to your article “Historic South Ward Church about to close its doors” by Phil Egan, page 8 of your Thursday, May 8, 2022 Sarnia Journal, I want to share an idea. It is not my idea. It is my friend’s idea. Mr. Tom Hennessey envisions evolving the St. Paul’s United Church on Devine Street at the corner of Emma and Devine Street to the South Sarnia Church and Enrichment Centre, a South End diversified Church and youth enrichment center where all are welcome. Tom is no stranger to South End Sarnia. Much of his youth was spent growing up on Queen Street and later 390 Devine Street, just five doors east of St. Paul’s. Tom moved to Sarnia with his parents in 1969 from his birthplace of Bishop’s Falls, Newfoundland. When Tom’s family arrived in Sarnia, they resided in Sarnia’s South End. Tom worked at the Drawbridge Inn, in Sarnia from the time he was 13 years old until he was 19 years old, learning the value of hard work and determination. Tom was employed at Fiberglas from 1977 to 1989 and Ethyl from 1990 to 1995. While there, he served as a substance abuse counsellor through the Union at both Fiberglas and Ethyl. Tom demonstrated support for his co-workers. In 1995, Tom started TGH Safety Consulting, which is located on Campbell Street, Sarnia. Tom operated this business until he retired in 2020. Between 1995 and 2010, Tom, together with Paul Theriault, under the management of John Barnfield, developed programs and taught courses for the Industrial Education Centre (IEC). The IEC continues to operate to this day. Tom has been involved in many other organizations over the years including being a substance abuse counsellor, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counsellor, volunteer coach for the Sarnia Minor Athletic Association (SMAA) Baseball and Hockey, member of the Lambton St. Clair Boxing Club, founder of the Bluewater Boxing club, volunteer at the Rebound Organization, volunteer at Huron House Boys Home, co-chair of the Sarnia Power Boat Races, Logistics Chair at Sarnia Tall Ships, and co-chair of Relay for Life. These organizations all benefited from Tom’s involvement and dedication. Tom has been very involved in the community throughout his life and is very driven to be a support for all members of the community. He has demonstrated a passion for helping others. Tom believes, and I agree, that his proposed project will benefit the children and youth of the South End of Sarnia, and the community as a whole. Tom is passionate about youth development through athletics. More than that, Tom knows that while we don’t all start life on equal footing, we share a mutual desire for equal opportunity to achieve our dreams and pursue personal growth in the sciences, arts, trade skills, music, athletics, or whatever our dreams might be. To be clear, Tom is not looking for a handout. He has offered to pay up to $500,000.00 or the appraised value of the property to the United Church of Canada in exchange for the property. It is Tom’s wish that the United Church of Canada will in turn donate these proceeds, or at least a substantial portion of such proceeds to the Aamjiwnaang First Nation. Such would be yet a further demonstration of the United Church of Canada’s apology (being the first in Canada to do so) to the First Nations for its role in operating 15 residential institutions and of course a great assistance to Aamjiwnaang First Nation’s affordable housing initiatives. And remember, that when the Church burned down in the sixties it was primarily through the efforts of the local members that it was rebuilt. Their legacy should remain in our community. The long-term interests of In support of Tom’s Vision, please take a moment to sign corporate developers and below, print your name, take a picture of this signed private equity firms are not the same as Tom’s vision. support, and send it via text to 519-331-2551 OR email Don’t let St. Paul’s Church to SouthSarniaCEC@outlook.com OR sign the petition at become another High Park, https://chng.it/m8XLpbRp9Q. a property sold by the United Church to R4 DevelopTO: Antler River Watershed ment Inc. almost 4 years Regional Council ago that sits vacant awaiting the developer’s pleaAND TO: St. Paul’s United Church, sure. Sarnia, Ontario Tom wants to help our South End. He wants to do it now! Help Tom help our South End community. DATE SIGNATURE Respectfully D. John Kirby, originally from Brock and Confed., In the South End.

PRINTED NAME

Page 16

The Sarnia Journal

Lives Lived

Death N Death Notices otices Recent Passings Up To June 8, 2022

D.J. ROBB FUNERAL HOME • • • • •

Guggisberg, Nancy (June 8, 2022) Barr, Stewart (June 5, 2022) Cox, John (June 4, 2022) Warner, Evelyn (June 3, 2022) White, Gail (June 2, 2022)

• •

White, Richard (June 6, 2022) Vail, Howard (June 3, 2022)

•

Weinmann, Shirley (June 7, 2022)

• • • • • • • •

Henderson, Bennie (June 6, 2022) Langis, Rene (June 5, 2022) Sipkens, Jesse (June 5, 2022) Stathis, Akrivi (June 4, 2022) Daigneault, Evelyn (June 3, 2022) Plain, Karen (June 2, 2022) Grant, Shirley (June 2, 2022) Lacey, Billy (June 2, 2022)

MCCORMACK FUNERAL HOME

MCKENZIE & BLUNDY FUNERAL HOME SMITH FUNERAL HOME

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

In Loving Memory on Father’s Day

KENNETH CONROY July 31, 1928 - Jan 24, 2020

Sending our love to you Dad on Father’s Day. We are ever grateful for your loving guidance and encouragement, wisdom and sage advice, and your dedication to family always. Your love and legacy lives on. You are dearly missed and always in our hearts, Love Your Family

Ricky

Your life was a blessing, Your memory a treasure… You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure…

Happy Heavenly Father’s Day Love Karen, Dave and Jenn, Lyns and Kev, Jamie and Danielle and all your precious Grandkids

IN LOVING MEMORY ON FATHER’S DAY

Antonio Tudino

The world changes from year to year, and our lives from day to day. But the love and memory of you, shall never pass away. Sempre vivi nei nostri cuori. Always alive in our hearts. ~ Your wife, Rocca & family

Obituary

MACINTYRE, John February 8 1949 – May 28 2022

John Macintyre, 73, of Sarnia, Ontario, passed away peacefully Saturday, May 28 2022, at St. Joseph’s Hospice surrounded by his loving family. He was born February 8, 1949 in Glasgow, Scotland to Iain and Ann, married Susan in Barbados in 1990 with beloved friends Dave and Oriel Macintosh in attendance and soon after welcomed two beautiful daughters. Jmac was a big personality with endless entertaining true stories to tell (living in Africa as a boy, memorable stays on the Isle of Skye, his days playing competitive soccer, touring with famous bands, etc.). John had many an “adoptive” daughter and son among his own two daughters’ friends, always sharing his music, laughter and his home. In the community, he was instrumental in the development of the Sarnia Girls Soccer Club and was a founding member of the Young Theatre Players. John will be dearly missed by his wife and soulmate, Susan and his daughter Mairi. Loved by sisters-inlaw, Jill Macintyre, Kay Mott, Cindy Garrett, brothersin-law, Rex (Marnie) Garrett, Paul (Ann) Garrett, Mike (Wanda) Garrett, and Keith Squires. Treasured Uncle John to many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his daughter Eilidh, brother Duncan, parents Iain and Ann, in-laws Rex and Ivy Garrett, brother-in-law James Mott, sister-in-law Sylvia Blain, nephew Jimmy Mott, and niece Susan “Sam” Meston. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses of the St Joseph’s Hospice, his oncology team, and all who loved Johnny Boy. We know he will be enjoying his “cheeseburger in paradise” while looking out at the “stars on the water”. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice [1] and The Huron House Boys Home. [2] Arrangements entrusted to Life Transitions Burial and Cremation Service .

HISLOP, Mary St. Clare 20 March 1929 – 21 March 2022

Well known and respected Sarnia artist and community activist Mary Hislop passed away peacefully on March 21 2022, one day after her 93rd birthday. Mary was born in Stratford, Ontario in 1929 and was predeceased by her spouse of 65 years, Donald (2015), as well as her parents Cecil (1975) and St. Clare Packham (1979), and her brothers Jack (1982 ) (Marjorie - 2018), and Bob (2018), her sister Anne Bain (2014) (Allan – 2001) and her great granddaughter Isla Steadman (2019). She left behind her four children, John (Nancy), James (Laurie), Mary Ellen Graham (Sam (2019)) and Robert (Julie), and grandchildren Gregory (Amanda), David (Neda), Geoffrey, Michelle, Robert (Samantha), Joel (Polina), Dana Steadman (Adam), Meghan Sauve (Brent), Kristen and great grandchildren Emma, Allison, Abigail, Robbie, Lucy, Genevieve, Hugh, and Charlie. Mary is also missed by sister Ruby Elder (Doug - 2018) and sister in law Grace Packham and many nieces and nephews and cousins. A Celebration of Mary’s life will be held at Smith Funeral Home on Saturday, June 25th at 11 AM. Visitation is scheduled for one hour prior to the ceremony (10 AM), also at the funeral home. The ceremony will be available to be viewed on Mary’s memorial page on the Smith Funeral Home website https://smithfuneralhome.ca/ memorial/mary-st-clare-hislop-0. A reception will be held immediately after the ceremony at the Family Centre and the family has requested that if you wish to attend the reception, you are asked to confirm your attendance at this link: https://signup.com/go/TobVoCk. Mary is sincerely missed by her family and friends. Cremation has occurred and in lieu of flowers, donations to Gallery In The Grove (VALS) or Literacy Lambton would be appreciated.

Thursday, June 16, 2022

WEINMANN, Shirley Evangeline Velma May

It is with saddened and broken hearts the family regrets to announce the passing of their beautiful Mama, Nana, Nanny, Gigi, sister and aunt. Shirley went to be with her Lord, passing away at Vision Nursing Home on Tuesday, June 7, 2022 at the age of 83. Beloved wife of the late Edward Weinmann, Michigan/ Florida. Cherished Mother of Deborah Last, Sarnia, Cheryl Urquhart (Martin), Dresden and Tim Reid (Carol), Mooretown. Cherished Second-Mother to Nephew Danny Boyd (Shirley), Petrolia. Beloved Step-Mother of Paul Weinmann (Carol), Michigan, and Lynn Swain (Bill), Michigan. Treasured Nana and Nanny of Christopher Klauke, Joel Bissonnette (Amy), Tara Spence (Tyler), Jesse Bissonnette (Megan), Courtney Reid (Eric), Jasmine Reid (Mike), Erika Last (Kevin), Blayne Reid and Bryce Reid (Ashley). Step Grandmother Nanny to Bobbie Pfeiffer, Stacey Aulph (Brandon), Leah Webster (Nick), Evan Weinmann (Devon), Laura and Andrew Hartman. Treasured Great-Grandmother Gigi of Zachery, Kaleb, Brody, Maliyah, Bryker, Brock and Dawsynn. Step Great Grandmother to Kaleigh and Emmalyn Aulph, Claire, Olivia and Hannah Webster, Preston, Aubrey and Kenzie Weinmann. Sister of David Boyd (Shirley), Sarnia. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents Daniel & Velma Boyd, sister Evelyn Swartz and brothers Elvis and Donald Boyd. Shirley lived in Michigan/Florida for the past 30 years. Florida was a dream State for her where she loved the warmth and sunshine. She returned to Sarnia in 2016, missing Florida immensely. Mom was a fashionista, always loving to have her hair styled, her makeup done and being dressed to the nines. She loved decorating, crocheting and sewing. Shirley also loved collecting teddy bears where her and hubby Ed would visit nursing homes and passed them out for several years. Her family would like to give a special thank you to those loving caregivers and staff at Vision Nursing Home. At Mom’s request cremation has taken place and she wished for no funeral service. Arrangements entrusted to the McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 519-344-3131. As an expression of sympathy, friends who wish may send memorial donations to the charity of your choice. Messages of condolence & memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com.

DAVE TAYLES OUR FAVOURITE “GIRL DAD”

HAPPY HEAVENLY FATHER’S DAY DAD!

Love Deb, Karen, Margo, Mary Jo Guess you were a pretty good “Boy Dad” too! (Love Mark & Brad)

THINKING OF YOU THIS

FATHER'S DAY AND EVERY DAY.

Miss You, Love From All of Us Mom, Marlene, Joan, Murray, David and families.

Thursday, June 16, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

Page 17

Community Graduation

NOTICE NORTH LAMBTON COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Congratulations Matthew!

Will be held on Thursday, June 23, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. at the North Lambton Community Health Centre, 59 King Street West, Ontario.

The Praill, Tejero and Carr families are proud to announce that Matthew Praill, son of Vicky and Ian Praill graduated from the University of Ottawa Faculty of Engineering, Class of 2022. Matt earned his BASc in Mechanical Engineering with Engineering Management and Entrepreneurship. We are so thrilled to have another engineer in the family legacy.

The purpose of the Annual General Meeting is to: i. hear and receive the reports and statements of the Auditor and of any other person that the Directors require to make a report. ii. authorize the Board of Directors to set the annual remuneration for the Auditor. iii. elect Directors. iv. accept the revised by-laws v. address any other matters properly brought before the meeting. Proxy voting forms can be obtained by contacting the Executive Assistant at 519-786-4545, ext. 261 or via email to lminielly@nlchc.com. Because of space limitations, please confirm attendance to the Executive Assistant at 519-786-4545, ext 261 or via email to lminielly@nlchc.com.

Class of

On behalf of the Board of Directors – May 24, 2022 Krista McCann, President

Thinking of you this Father’s Day Love from all your family. xoxo

IN LOVING MEMORY OF MY FATHER ON FATHER’S DAY From Daughter Deborah

Joseph Paul Fauteux Love and Miss You Always IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Wayne Bishop January 27, 1947 June 16, 2021

One year ago today you left us so quickly we didn’t get to say our goodbyes. So, how do we capture all the moments we shared in our lifetime and know there isn’t enough words to express how much you were loved and how much you are missed? We talk of you often and reminisce of all the times you made us laugh and all the times you protected and loved us. I was supposed to spend the rest of my life with you - and then I realized you spent the rest of your life with me. Always in our hearts, Brenda, Jamie, Olivia, Mya, Leanne, Dwayne, Alexa, & Laila

E EX XT TR RA A !

Memoriams

2022

PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY!

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Page 18

The Sarnia Journal

Fun Stuff

Thursday, June 16, 2022

Notice To Journal Home Delivery Customers VIA CANADA POST The Journal is discontinuing the program due to a lack of demand for our paid home delivery option via Canada Post. Delivery to existing pre-paid customers will continue. However, The Journal will not be accepting renewals or new customers. Copies of the Journal are available for pick-up at over 65 locations throughout Sarnia and Lambton County. A detailed listing of locations is available on our website www.thesarniajournal.ca We regret the inconvenience this may cause and hope that you will be able to switch to a pick-up location close to you.

For the answers to this week’s puzzles, see page 14

We have our world covered.

Thursday, June 16, 2022

The Sarnia Journal

Page 19

Sports

Thomson takes reins of Phillies, makes baseball history

TARA JEFFREY THE JOURNAL

ob Thomson practically grew up on the ball diamonds of Corunna. “I was always the bat boy,” he said with a laugh, recalling a youth spent following around older brothers Tom and Rick — and their teams — each summer. So it was only natural he’d pick up a glove of his own and follow in their footsteps. “I was just around the ball parks all the time,” he said of Corunna’s Duggan and Stewart fields on Hill Street. “My father was a pretty good baseball guy too, and he coached for many years. Being around the game all the time — I just fell in love with it.” It’s been a whirlwind recently for the 58-yearold, who on June 3 was named interim general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies — the first Canadian to become a full-time manager in Major League Baseball in nearly 90 years. His promotion from bench coach came after the firing of long-time friend and colleague Joe Girardi. “It’s bittersweet for me,” Thomson told The Journal. “I feel good and I feel excited about the ball club and what we’re doing so far. But you know, the Phillies letting Joe go is tough to see. “Joe and I have been through so much — a lot

CORUNNA NATIVE ROB THOMSON shakes hands with Philadelphia Phillies player Rhys Hoskins on June 3 at Citizens Bank Park, in what was his first official game as Interim General Manager of the ball club. Photo: courtesy of The Phillies/Miles Kennedy

of great times — World Series, playoff games, and grinding through a lot of tough stretches, too,” he said. The pair spent a decade spent together in the New York Yankees organization. “He and I will always have this bond together that will never be broken. But the schedule doesn’t stop, and you have to keep moving forward.” And that’s exactly what he did with a 10-0 win over the Los Angeles Angels that same night. “My father always taught me to think about

today and take care of what’s in front of you, and not really look too far ahead.” Thomson said his first goal is get his players to compete at a high level each and every game. “It’s one day at a time, really.” His father Jack spent his working career at Sarnia’s Cabot Carbon plant while raising the family on Lyndoch Street in Corunna — where Antonio’s Pizza now stands. When Thomson reached Bantam age he played in Sarnia for Larry Lecour and the late Glenn Lecour.

“It couldn’t happen to a nicer or more dedicated person,” said Larry Lecour, who coached lived near the family in Corunna. “He was a hard worker, never missed a game, always showed up and was ready to go. “And he used to babysit my kids,” he added with a laugh. Lecour has followed Thomson’s journey through the baseball ranks and says it’s about time he was promoted to the top job. “In my opinion, it’s well overdue,” he said. “He’s a baseball lifer, and we’re

glad it finally happened.” Thomson played for the Stratford Hillers in the early 1980s before recruiters drew him to St. Clair Community College in Port Huron. A year later he transferred to the University of Kansas. The catcher and third baseman represented Canada at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, before the Detroit Tigers drafted him in the 32nd round. In 1988, Thomson set his sights

Baseball bench approved for Stan Slack Field

arnia council waived the rules last week to permit the installation of a bench in memory of a longtime contributor to local baseball. The exemption will

allow a memorial bench to be placed in Errol Russell Park (Stan Slack Field) to commemorate Marnie Slack’s own contributions and support of baseball in Sarnia.

The proposed bench — depicting the Brigade baseball colours and emblem — wasn’t in compliance with the Commemorative Asset Policy & Procedures recently approved by

council, which among other things limits the number of benches installed annually. Marnie Slack was the wife of Stan Slack, and her tireless fundraising supported local youth

sports and helped teams travel to tournaments.

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on managing and served as Detroit’s minor league coach for two seasons. He then joined the Yankees and spent the next 28 years in various roles including bench coach and third base coach — earning five World Series rings in the process. He made history in 2008 when in Girardi’s absence he led the Yankees for three games. It was the first time since 1934 that a Canadian had managed a Major League team in regular season play. He joined the Phillies as bench coach in 2017, and was named to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame two years later. These days, the father of two grown daughters calls Stratford home in the offseason, but still makes the drive to Corunna to see how things have changed — or stayed the same. He’s pleased to see more Canadian kids coming up through the baseball ranks, he said. “I think there’s more baseball players [from Canada] on college scholarships to the U.S. than hockey players,” he said. “I understand that there’s more baseball schools than hockey schools, but I think that’s a fascinating thing. “It just goes to show you how much baseball in Canada has grown, and I’m kind of proud of that.” • Home Repairs/Odd Jobs • Home Improvements • Painting • Cleanups & Junk Removal

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Page 20

The Sarnia Journal

Thursday, June 16, 2022

is not just a saying in business. Advertise today and let your business be in sight and in the minds of your customers.

The Sarnia Journal can help you reach the majority of residents in the Sarnia area, with your message. Contact our office and one of our Sales Reps can show you how! Telephone: 519-491-5532