Lake Erie Beacon December 16, 2016

Serving Lake Erie’s North Shore Friday December 16, 2016

LEB HOLIDAY SCHEDULE This will be our final edition for 2016.

We will be closing for the first four weeks in January. Our first New Year edition will be mailed Friday February 3, 2015

Elgin County Ambassador Program Winners

We wish all our readers, writers, friends, family and especially our advertisers the very best for the holiday season and for the coming year.

Andrew, Linda and family.

INSIDE Letters On behalf of the Port Stanley Lion and Lioness Clubs, we would like to extend sincere thanks to all the folks that participated in the Port Stanley Dicken’s Day Parade.

STORY PAGE 2

Allan Spicer Allan Spicer has been a long time contributor to the Lake Erie Beacon with his Port Burwell Reports.

STORY PAGE 2

Bayham Historical Society Report to Council The ultimate goal of the group is to establish a museum on the lands on Plank Road.

STORY PAGE 3

Tis The Season Of Giving Donation of $3,000 to the STEGH Foundation, for the Hospital’s Great Expansion.

STORY PAGE 5

LOOK AHEAD Community Events

Page 6

Classifieds & Service Directory

Page 7

Business Roladex

Economic Development Assistant County of Elgin

On December 1, 2009 the Elgin County Economic Development and Tourism department launched the Elgin County Ambassador Program.

The launch event had numerous business owners in attendance, including the very first ambassador, Etienne Borm, owner of ETBO Tool and Die Inc. The Ambassador Program was launched with a goal of creating a team of local business owners, volunteers and executives to act as ambassadors to promote Elgin County as a progressive community to live and to do business in.

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Above Left: Alan Smith, Economic Development General Manager (left) presents the Award for Ambassador Of The Year to Richard Haddow of Port Stanley.

Above Right: Ryan Harris was the winner of The 2016 Enterprise Elgin Award for his new company startup, Century Chocolates, which he operates out of West Lorne. organization’s services. The 2016 Enterprise Elgin winner, Ryan Harris from Century Chocolates also presented on the experience of competing in this contest and how it has helped with the success of the business.

The end of every meeting is reserved for ambassadors to share updates and successes of their businesses with other members and time to network with other ambassadors. Ambassadors are encouraged to share Continued On Page 4

New Elgin County Warden for 2017 Katherine Thompson Elgin Marketing &

Mayor James McIntyre.

Communications Coordinator

Jones has represented Elgin County on the Elgin Economic Development Advisory Group and the Social/Entertainment Committee. He is a cabinet maker and a life-long Southwold resident who lives in Boxall.

Grant Jones was acclaimed Warden of Elgin County at a session of Elgin County Council held on December 6, 2016.

Jones, the Mayor of Southwold, was unopposed in his bid for the one-year position. He had declared his intention to seek the office at the September 13, 2016 County Council meeting.

Centre City Realty Inc

business owners, County Councillors, and local services including the Elgin Business Resource Centre and Elgin – St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre.

Meetings of the Ambassador Program are held quarterly (March, June, September & December) at various venues throughout Elgin County, to highlight Elgin’s diverse yet progressive community. The meetings are comprised of updates from the County’s Economic Development and Tourism department, updates from County Council, and a guest speaker who touches upon current opportunities and assistance available to local busiNow, seven years later, the program ness owners. Guest speakers for 2016 included Andrew Gunn from Fanshawe still progresses with the same original goal in mind. The program has approxi- College and Gordon Hall from Employmately 45 active members from across ment Services Elgin who provided ambassadors with updates on their the County. These members include

Pages 4 & 8

Wishing You A Merry Christmas

Independently Owned and Operated

Jessica DeBackere

Jones was elected to Southwold Council in 2003 and again as Deputy Mayor in 2010. He was elected Mayor of Southwold in 2014. This is Warden Jones' first full term on Elgin County Council. He first served on Council in 2014 in the absence of then Southwold

Warden Jones thanked and congratulated outgoing Warden Bernie Wiehle for “a very successful year as Warden,” and commended his ability to lead Council with “dignity, humour and a sense of unity.”

“The role of Warden has many responsibilities and duties,” said Jones.

“All of which must be accomplished by Council and staff working together as a Continued On Page 4

Page 2 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 16, 2016

LETTERS Thank You! We would like to thank the Port Stanley Fire Department for their quick response!

Every one of you that were in our home were amazing.

You went far beyond your call of duty!

Thank You so much!

Don & Connie Arnold, Port Stanley

Dicken’s Day Parade Thank You On behalf of the Port Stanley Lion and Lioness Clubs, we would like to extend sincere thanks to all the folks that participated in the Port Stanley Dicken’s Day Parade on November 25th. Many thanks to those that came out and supported us on our village’s special night.

There are too many participants and organizations to mention by name; however, special thanks must go to the members of Central Elgin Council for your support and joining in, the Port Stanley Firefighters, the Sailor’s Junior C Hockey team, and the associates of the Port Stanley Post Office for collecting more letters than ever for Santa, who was once again present during his busiest time of the year. Thanks to all for your invaluable help.

Category prizes were handed out for entrants in the parade were as follows…

Most Victorian/ Christmas…Railway City Brewing Company.

Winter Wonderland…Port Stanley Optimist.

Best Youth…1st Sparta Beaver and Cubs.

Best Illuminated Float… Verburggen Trucking.

Honorable mentions go to Jim’s Lawn Care P.S, and a 1937 Fire Truck that was stated as Port Stanley’s first fire truck.

Thanks to parade judges, Linda Hibbert and Richard Haddow.

A big thank you to our major sponsors this year, (the BIA, 55 Plus Club, P.S. Home Hardware, P.S. Optimist, K.C. Marina, Frank & Nancy Prothero), and others who either financially and or donated items towards the parade, that helped make it the success it

was. It should be noted the parade is not a fund raiser for either the Port Stanley Lion or Lioness Clubs. All monies raised go directly towards the cost of running the parade with any residue monies left over, applied to next years start up costs. Thanks also to the Port Stanley Summer Theatre, for supplying hot chocolate to those gathered in the centre of town.

Once again Mackie’s made a big contribution to the parade, by having their doors open (despite normally being closed this time of year on Friday’s), and provided free hot beverages, cookies, and photos with Santa. So, a big, big thank you, goes to all the folks at Mackie’s, for a job well done and appreciated by all.

This year, the Sailor’s Junior C Hockey team collected a record 833 pounds of non-perishable goods and sundry items.

What a wonderful way to get the community into the holiday spirit and to help some local families at this special time of the year.

Season’s Greetings to you all from the Port Stanley Lion and Lioness Clubs, along with club members Bev and Ray Filewood, Parade Organisers.

Letter To The Editor The closing this Friday December 16th of Harding Smith Line cost $450,000.00 This pales as compared to the “NEW” Dexter Line of $7 Million.

Mrs. Anne Smith lived in her home with husband Harold (Erie Poultry Farm) for 60 years. We lost Harold 3 years ago.

On October 17th, Anne received a letter from “Central Elgin” as per Section 4AIII to Vacate by December 16th, “All items to be removed from the home.”

Allan Spicer Andrew Hibbert Allan Spicer has been a long time contributor to the Lake Erie Beacon with his Port Burwell Reports. Always well written, concise and informative they have been a mainstay of the Beacon. It is with great sadness that I must inform our readers of the passing of Allan Spicer on Sunday December 4th.

Allan had just returned from a vacation and was preparing his next Port Burwell Report for our December 16th edition. Allan seemed to have an endless knowledge of Bayham and the communities within the Municipality especially Port Burwell.

Allan Mervin Spicer of Port Burwell passed away at his residence on Sunday, December 4, 2016 in his 72nd year. Beloved husband of Mary (Vanderweegen) Spicer. Loving father of Jacynta Spicer of Victoria B.C., Dylan Spicer of Port Burwell and Alexandra Spicer of Port Hardy B.C. Dear brother of David Spicer (Pat) and Robert Spicer. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Born in Fergus, Ontario on December 15,

1944, son of the late Mervin Spicer and the late Muriel (Harrington) Spicer.

Allan was a graduate of the University of Western Ontario and graduated from the University of Louisiana where he specialized in agronomy. He worked in agricultural sales and in later years with Can Grow Crop Solutions.

Allan had passion for everything but, his family always came first. He still played Old Timers Hockey every Thursday after stopping by for his daily morning coffee at Sunshine’s Restaurant, to see who he could talk up, and, visit with friends. He was crazy for baseball as well.

Allan’s political views were at all levels... municipal, county, provincial, federal and international, and he was deeply passionate and knowledgeable when he spoke about it.

His often strong opinions mattered and people listened. He mentored many people through his wisdom and experience.

Thank you for your service to the Lake Erie Beacon and the community. Allan Spicer will be missed

The lack of compassion overwhelms me — Who cares how, or where Anne should go? No personal visits.

Anne was fortunate to move to the new Aylmer Retirement Home — Her 100 year old “Gimmel Piano” has followed her.

All those who have dirtied their hands, my God have mercy on their souls.

David Harding 46975 Harding Line, Sparta

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing "Glory to the new born King".

Christmas Eve Saturday, December 24th Published by Kettle Creek Publishing Ltd. 204 A Carlow Road Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C5 Telephone: 519.782.4563

Publisher/Editor Andrew Hibbert andrew@lebeacon.ca Advertising Linda Hibbert linda@lebeacon.ca

Letters to the Editor andrew@lebeacon.ca The Lake Erie Beacon is a community newspaper published every second Friday by Kettle Creek Publishing Ltd. Over 6000 copies are delivered by Canada Post to homes, apartments and businesses along the Elgin County north shore of Lake Erie.

The Beacon is also available through Variety Stores, Restaurants, Inns and B&B’s in Dutton, West Lorne, Rodney, St. Thomas, Copenhagen and Port Stanley bringing our distribution to 7000.

The Lake Erie Beacon shall not be liable for changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of advertisements or other similar material that has been included in this publication. We reserve the right to edit all submissions including letters to the editor which must be signed and include your name, address and phone number, be in good taste and follow the laws of libel and slander. Anonymous letters will not be published. Articles written by freelance writers do not necessarily reflect the views of The Lake Erie Beacon.

The Advertising Deadline is: Friday Noon Prior to Publication.

Member: Member: Member: Member: Member:

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

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7:15 p.m. Carol Sing 7:30 p.m. Holy Eucharist - Hymns Featuring Lauren York Readings & Carols 9:30 a.m. Sunday, December 25th

All are welcome to join us at the "The Little Church with the Big Heart".

Come celebrate the gift of Emmanuel - God with Us!

Christ Anglican Church 283 Colborne Street Port Stanley, ON (beside Foodland)

May the Peace and Joy of this Christmas Season be with you and your family.

The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 16, 2016 • Page 3

PORT BURWELL REPORT Allan Spicer

Bayham Historical Society Report to Council fied as 14 Snow Street in Vienna to the Society.

Darya Rousseau, President Bayham Historical Society

Mayor Ens and Council

Allan’s Last Port Burwell Report This is how a local business owner recently described the status of the state of business and commerce in Port Burwell.

Thank you for the opportunity to update you on the activities of the former "Friends of Edison" who have become the moving force behind the Bayham Historical Society.

At a meeting held on November 8, the former executive of the Bayham Historical Society resigned and elections were held to form a new executive. I was duly elected President and the positions of VicePresident, Treasurer and Secretary were also filled.

This means that the former "Friends of Edison" are now a legal entity, the Bayham Historical Society, which means they have standing with the Canada Revenue Agency as an organization with charitable status.

There is only one building left unsold on Robinson Street. Business plans of several new businesses have not been made public, as yet. The new owner of the coal flat property is a good example. The face of the Marine businesses on the Otter is changing.

The North Erie Marina has taken over the lease of the Bradfield’s Marina. The Martin Fish Market will continue to lease the property just south of the bridge. The Big Otter Marina property has been listed for sale by the LPRCA for a minimum of $801,000. The Municipality of Bayham has still to execute on the legal judgement obtained against the Elgin Military Museum, namely the default on the $6,000,000 loan against the Sub Ojibwa. Divestiture is still on the table. Burwell Cove building has been sold. The new pharmacy appears as if it will open very soon. The Sweet Spot, now under operation by Rick Henry intends to stay open over the winter months.

Lots up in the air... nothing has landed yet but, the runway is most certainly open!

The move means that to answer Councilor Ketchabaw's question of October 6 Ih - "Do they even want the stuff, the response is twofold.

First the "they" is the Bayham Historical Society and secondly yes they want the stuff.

The group has been searching and has a pending opportunity for a rental agreement on storage space for the artifacts, which means discussions can commence on the transfer of the artifact and document collections. The selected site meets with the support of the current Municipal Curator.

The ultimate goal of the group is to establish a museum on the lands on Plank Road. It is going to be an ambitious undertaking and at the current time the group is endeavouring to ascertain the costs of constructing phase one, which would be approximately 1800 square feet with a basement. The vision of the committee is a building designed so the majority of the exterior visible upon approach would reflect the period of the Edison's settlement of

Merry Christmas and HappyNew Year

Jenn, Maggie & Jeff Yurek

Constituency Office: 750 Talbot Street, Suite 201, St. Thomas, ON, N5P 1E2 Office: 519-631-0666

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the area. The second feature would be to allow for easy expansion if need and finances are available.

There was a museum feasibility study done in 2008 by Vilnis Cultural Design Works which discussed the feasibility and the viability of an Edison Museum in Vienna. The Society has the options to investigate the cost of updating the report, the cost of a scaled down or an abbreviated version, which may include construction / operating costs, fundraising opportunities and timelines.

The Society would appreciate suggestions from the Municipality in this regard, and requests consideration for municipal staff support to assist in the feasibility study update.

We ask that Council offer appropriate support for grant applications/ and / or funding requests to senior levels of government and other sources.

We respectfully request that the Municipality meet with the Society to discuss transfer of the current Edison Museum reserve funds to the Society. According to the most recent report to Council the 2015 balance is in excess of $86,000.

Also, the Society and the Municipality need to discuss transfer of the lands at 6342 Plank Road and Lot 7 beside the current Museum property identi-

The Society is seeking the support of the Municipality on an ongoing basis, for events such as Edisonfest. This would involve waiving of fees, transfer and use of picnic tables, use of Vienna Memorial Park, Bayham Community Centres, etc. and other actions that have been carried out in the past.

Further in depth discussion regarding other matters, including an ongoing waiver of municipal property tax and support for waiver of County portion for properties for five years is requested.

We ask to be included in promotion of Edison museum display sites in municipal tourism and promotion and advertising material and brochures for a minimum of five years.

Plans are being developed for the 2017 Edisonfest, which in combination with Canada's 150t' celebrations could make for the largest event ever. Guest lists are being finalized, exhibitors are being examined and fundraising plans during the festival are being developed.

We trust this provides a sufficient update for Council so they may show their support to the Bayham Historical Society. This could be as direction to staff, or a motion, reiterating their support for the continued efforts of the Bayham Historical Society towards the ultimate goal of constructing and operating a museum dedicated to such an important period in Bayham's history.

We thank you for your time and look forward to continuing, ongoing, mutually beneficial discussions with the Municipality of Bayham.

HealthTalk What’s the Deal with Christmas Seals?

Christmas brings family gatherings, shopping and the Lung Association’s Christmas Seal campaign.

While the lung association supports a wide range of lung conditions via their December drive, its roots focused on funding for a disease that was rampant in the early part of the 20th century- Tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis (TB) is infection caused by a germ called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While we often think of TB’s effects on the lungs, it can also affect other parts of the body such as the brain, kidneys or spine. There are two types of TB: Latent or inactive where a person is infected with TB but the bacteria remain in an inactive state and the person shows no symptoms; and Active TB where symptoms are present and a person can infect others. Latent TB can turn into the Active TB, so it is still important to treat it.

Symptoms of Active TB can be seen weeks after being infected or even years later. These symptoms include: coughing that lasts three or more weeks; coughing up blood; chest pain, or pain with breathing or coughing; unintentional weight loss; fatigue; fever; night sweats; chills; or loss of appetite. If TB is found in other parts of the body, then those organs can also be affected – for example TB in the kidneys may lead to blood in the urine.

Steve Bond,

BScPhm, RPh, CDE Pharmacist/Manager

TB is spread from droplets in the air usually when someone with Active TB coughs or sneezes. A person who receives appropriate antibiotics for two weeks or more is no longer contagious. Similarly you cannot be infected by someone with Latent TB. A skin test is the first tool to diagnose TB. The test involves injecting a small amount of TB protein under the skin. The site is examined 48 to 72 hours later and a positive test indicates that at some point you have been exposed to TB. If this test is positive, you will likely be sent for a blood test and an x-ray. A sputum test may also be used for diagnosis and to determine which antibiotics would be most effective.

Treatment for TB usually involves between 2 to 4 antibiotics and lasts for 6 to 9 months. The types of medications and length of treatment depends on risk factors and sensitivity of the bacteria to the antibiotics.

So when you send those Christmas Seals, you support all the good work that the Lung Association does and now you know where the campaign originated.

Take care of yourself and each other.

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Page 4 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 16, 2016

TAYLOR MADE Jim Taylor Speaks Out

Welcome Another Winter Here we are, about to “welcome” another winter. The season every true Canadian loves.

Well, OK. Maybe not all of us.

Still, some must be looking forward to skating on the Anglican Church pond. Smooth ice, room for shinny and enough light at night from nearby streetlights to skate after dark.

way!

When you reach a certain age it’s hard to believe how much times, not to mention your world, have changed. Trust me on this. Maybe you had to be there.

Then again that “there” is, well, no long there. If you know what I mean.

Thing is back then when winter arrived, I mean really arrived, the area we still call the beach, now cluttered with condos, cottages, bars and restaurants, was, well, deserted. As in empty. Shut down. Closed.

A veritable ghost town. It was almost creepy.

Yes, times have changed. That same stretch of road today is lined with, well, you tell me. But I think they’re inhabited year round. Some of them.

Elgin County Ambassador Program Continued From Pg. 1 information learned from these meetings and help connect other businesses to the services and assistance offered by the County, in addition to the services highlighted by the guest speakers. Ambassadors are also encouraged to help bring business to the local community in the form of tourists and consumers and assist in attracting businesses looking to expand in Elgin County. “We consider our Elgin County ambassadors to be our eyes and ears on the ground,” said Alan Smith, General Manager of Economic Development “they are able to gather information and report it back to help us understand the needs of our local business community.”

These efforts do not go unnoticed; the December meeting is about recognizing the hard work and support of Elgin County’s ambassadors. Each year, staff honours one ambassador as the Ambassador of the Year based on a points system, which are awarded through completing the above duties, as well as recruiting new Elgin County

Or under the light of the moon. I remember holding hands while skating with the first girl I saw as more than a nuisance.

What? Oh, I forgot. That pond is gone now. Pretty much.

Well, there’s always Kettle Creek.

Then again it does take a while for the creek to ice over so we can shovel off a snow-covered rink. That rink was usually across from where my friend Sam Vary lived and, as I recall, his dad would often see to it a rink was cleared of snow.

I still think of those tiny rinks that often dotted Kettle Creek. Sometimes way above the lift bridge. After a game of pickup hockey I’d skate north to the Warren Street bridge. My home was on Warren Street. Imagine how much it hurt to walk home on feet, once numb, that, now skateless, were stinging from the cold. I don’t know what hurt worse.

Frozen feet or the pain when they began to thaw.

What? No one does that anymore?

Too dangerous? Global warming? No

And does anyone skate on the creek anymore? If they tried they’d probably be shooed off.

I still recall having a cold one at the Elgin hotel. It was on the corner of Edith Cavell and William Street.

You know. Where that multi-story condo was going to be built.

It served us all for many years. A great spot. The hotel’s owner sponsored our (very good) fastball team.

Bought us team sweaters and generally saw to our well-being. If you know what I mean.

Then the department of highways came along and told the hotel owner the road was going to be widened right through where his business stood. It had to come down so he had to sell. I still miss the place.

Let’s see that was, oh, 40 or more years ago. And in case you are wondering, we are still waiting for that road to be widened.

Now, let’s see. How many days until spring?

business owners to join the program.

The following Elgin County business owners have been named as Ambassadors of the Year: 2011 – Grace McGartland, The Arts & Cookery Bank 2012 – Adrian Peters, A & M Sounds 2013 – Eric Salin, Sport in Port 2014 – John Robinson, Stan Portley’s 2015 – John Tschirhart, Tschirhart’s Custom Billiards 2016 – Ambassador of the Year, awarded to Richard Haddow, Realtor for ReMax on December 1, 2016.

Businesses that are located within the County of Elgin are welcomed to join the Ambassador Program in March of 2017 and are encouraged to become members. More information about the program and the benefits of joining can be found on the department’s website http://www.progressivebynature.com/business-resources/ elgin-county-ambassador-program.

Businesses can also contact our office by emailing info@elgin.ca or calling (519) 631–1460 x168.

New Elgin County Warden for 2017

CAO Selection Committee: Grant Jones, Dave Mennill, Bernie Wiehle

Continued From Page 1

Elgin County Museum: Sally Martyn

team. I promise to respect the timehonoured traditions of this office and I look forward to working to serve the great people of Elgin County. ”

Elgin St. Thomas Public Health: Greg Currie, Dave Marr, Bernie Wiehle

Jones identified the start of construction on the new Terrace Lodge and Elgin County Museum facility, the transfer of Wonderland Road, and succession planning for senior staff as priorities for 2017.

Health Recruitment Partnership: Cameron McWilliam

Jones also noted that Economic Development remains a priority of County Council. The County-lead Community Improvement Plan continues to see a great deal of success with a significant positive impact on the local business community.

Committee appointments for the rest of Council were approved:

T H E LAKE ER I E B EACON

Dispute Resolution: Grant Jones, Paul Ens, Bernie Wiehle

Green Lane Community Trust: Dave Marr

Joint Elgin/Central Elgin Accessibility Advisory Committee: Sally Martyn Rural Initiatives: Grant Jones, Paul Ens, Cameron McWilliam Social/Entertainment: Dave Marr, Mike Wolfe St. Thomas – Elgin Public Art Centre: Greg Currie Terrace Lodge Building Committee: Grant Jones, Greg Currie, Dave Mennill, Mike Wolfe Waste Management/Liaison: Committee of the Whole Water Advisory Committee: Mike Wolfe

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The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 16, 2016 • Page 5

T’is The Season Of Giving

Port Stanley Lioness Club Above

Port Stanley Optimist Club Below

Donation of $3,000 to the STEGH Foundation,for the Hospital’s Great Expansion

The Memorial Angel Tree Service was held at the Port Stanley Library December 10 at 11 am. This year the total amount raised for The Children’s Cancer Bravery Bead program was $965.00.

Friday, December 2nd 11:00 a.m. in the Foundation Office

On behalf of the STEGH Foundation, we are pleased to share a recent donation from the Order of the Eastern Star – ADAH Chapter 276 Wallacetown. The OES Wallacetown Chapter has made a generous donation of $1,553 to STEGH’s Great Expansion.

In the photo (L to R) are members: John McIntyre, Sally McIntyre, Debbie Armstrong and Craig Armstrong.

Linda Hibbert

care at STEGH.

At this particular time of year we find that many of the various volunteer organizations are getting ready to donate to their favourite charities.

The services, which the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital provide are exemplary. During the year they have been given donations by many organizations and it is at this time we truly appreciate the generosity of these groups and the hours of volunteer time taken to make those donations possible.

In Elgin County and St. Thomas, we really must congratulate The St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Foundation, which is a registered charity that independently raises funds to acquire patient care equipment, support educational endeavours, and upgrade the hospital’s physical facilities. The Foundation plays a fundamental role in supporting excellence in patient

This is the second donation from the OES, and they have generously given over $2,500 this year.

Be it $5.00 or $5,000.00, your donation does make a difference to the people in our community. Thank you for your generosity!

Page 6 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 16, 2016

North Shore Community Events F E S T I V A L S

Melissa Schneider

E V E N T S

DUTTON 2016

PORT STANLEY 2016-17

Dutton & District LIONS Charity Bingo Wed., Jan. 4, 2017, 7 pm Dutton Dunwich Community Centre$500 Jackpot and several Specials.

Dutton & District LIONS Famous Breakfast Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, in the DEN; behind Dutton Dunwich Community Centre. Adults $7; FULL breakfast done your way.

Serving: 9 am till 1 pm.

Port Stanley Community Policing Requires volunteers. To help protect your village, call 519-782-3934 or email pscp@rogers.com Port Stanley Library 782-4241 304 Bridge St. Mon, Tues, Thurs, 10 - 8:30 Fri 1 - 5, Sat 9 - 1.

Holiday Hours: Saturday, Dec.24: 9am-1pm Closed Dec. 25 - Jan. 2, Tuesday, Jan. 3: 10am-8:30pm Food for Fines - December 1 - 20. Each item donated = $2 in overdue fines. Bring in non-perishable, unopened and unexpired goods (personal hygiene items are also welcome!) All donations will benefit local food drives!

Christmas Movie in the Library Monday, December 19, starting at 6:00pm. Drop in to see How the Grinch Stole Christmas (rated G) All ages welcome! *Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.

Adult Book Club Tuesday, December 20, 7:00pm New members are always welcome! Discussing: The Orchardist

by Amanda Coplin.

Port Stanley Optimists meet the first and third Wednesday of the month, 7 pm at the Port Stanley Library. Everyone welcome. We are looking for new members.

Christ Anglican Church Sunday Morning Service, 9:30 am with Eucharist. We invite all to join in worship with us.

Coffee follows downstairs.

Christmas Eve, Sat., December 24 7:15 p.m. Carols Christmas Day Sun., December 25 9.30 a.m. Full Service.

All welcome to participate in the service.

St. John's Presbyterian Church Tom Jeffrey Pastor.

Sunday Worship 10 am followed by Fellowship Hour.

The Door is always open, why not join us?

Port Stanley United Church Service of Worship at 10:30 am followed by a time of fellowship. Come join us. We are now wheelchair friendly and barrier free.

Port Stanley United Church Christmas cheer is guaranteed when you listen to the cantata JOY sung by the Port Stanley United Church Choir and friends under the direction of Lindsay Traichevich Smith. All are welcome 11 am Sunday, December 18 at the Port Stanley United Church.

Heritage Port meet the 4th Thursday of the month.

During the months of January - April please check with a Heritage Port member for location. Time is still 1:30 pm. Port Stanley the First 100 Years Book, $25 at the Lake Erie Beacon, 204-A Carlow Road, side door, 1-5 pm. All proceeds to Heritage Port. 519 782-4563.

Port Stanley Village Association meets the second Thursday of the month 7- 8:30 pm at the Legion. All welcome.

Al-Anon Meeting, Christ Anglican Church 7:30 pm every Friday. If there is an alcohol/drug problem of a family member or friend that is affecting you, the Alanon Family Groups may be able to help you.

Port Stanley & Community 55+ Club Meets every Monday 1:30 -4 pm to play Euchre at the Port Stanley Arena. For info call 519-782-4801 (John Brenders) or 519-685-2101 (Marie Geerts).

Port Stanley Legion Branch #410 Winter Hours: Sat., Sun., 12-7, Mon. 12-7, Tues., Wed., Thurs., Fri., 12-10.

Don’t forget the Legion offers the following: Seniors Bridge, Tues. night, Euchre:Wed. night Legion Darts Tuesday night 8 pm Men’s Darts Saturday Afternoon Meat Draws 3-5 pm Port Stanley Legion Bottle Returns Mon & Thurs- Closed, Tues, Wed., Fri, Sat 12-4 pm.

Port Stanley Legion Ladies MahJongg, Fridays 1:30pm. We are looking for beginners as well. If you like to play MahJongg come on out!

Port Stanley Legion Port Stanley Karaoke, Every 3rd Friday of the month, 7pm - 11pm. Come for the fun.

FINGAL 2016-17

Knox Presbyterian Church Rev. Jon Van Den Berg Worship 10 am. Coffee, cookies, fellowship follows: Sunday school/nursery 10 am. For info (519) 769-2157. Come and worship with a warm and friendly group of people, we are barrier free.

Knox Presbyterian Church, Christmas Eve Service, 7:00 p.m. Minister: Rev. Jon Van Den Berg; church accessible for all. Please join us.

Knox Presbyterian Church, Christmas Day Service, 10:00 a.m. Minister: Rev. Jon Van Den Berg; church accessible for all. Please join us.

Knox Presbyterian Church, New Year's Day Service, 11:00 a.m. Minister: Rev. Jon Van Den Berg; church accessible for all. Please join us.

Artisanal Bread Maker Sparta’s own artisanal bread maker Seth Wiggin is preparing for his last few trips to market before enjoying a Christmas break. Seth, owner

In addition to offering baguettes and croissants, Seth’s breads include sourdough, seeded bread with sunflower, sesame, flax and pumpkin, spelt, raisin, walnut, sage and different kinds of rye bread, to name a few. While he isn’t able to sell his bread in restaurants and stores, he doesn’t find it limiting.

“I just basically sell the ways I can for now. I wouldn’t say it’s limiting, really, I mean I have my clientele base that’s quite loyal. My 100 percent spelt bread probably has the most loyal clientele base because it’s hard to find in a true sourdough.”

RODNEY 2016-17

Rodney Legion Branch 525 The first Friday of every month is our Friday Luncheon The second Sunday of the Month is our meat bingo doors open 12. Bingo starts at 1 Must be 19 Yrs to play The third Sunday of the month is Brunch 9 am-12pm The fourth Sunday of the month Money Bingo 1pm Must be 19 Yrs to play Every Saturday meat draw Early bird 4:30pm Regular 5pm.

Rodney Legion is hosting a levee celebrating with a Dj and pot luck. DJ starts at 2-6 pm, with Pot luck folowing.

ST. THOMAS 2016-17

Parkinson's and Care Partners Monthly Support Group Meeting meets the second Tuesday of the month, 2-4 pm. Knights of Columbus Hall 265 Wellington St. Call (519) 782-4533 Masonic Centre, 42703 Fruit Ridge Line [at Sunset] New Year's Day Levee, January 1, 2017, 12:00 noon - 4:00pm Light Lunch Provided, Cash Bar, Everyone Welcome.

Masonic Centre, 42703 Fruit Ridge Line [at Sunset] Christmas Dinner, December 17, Dinner 6:30pm, $25pp. Turkey & Ham, for tickets 519-637-1606, Everyone Welcome Masonic Centre, 42703 Fruit Ridge Line, [at Sunset] Hi Ro Shrine Club, Christmas Cakes, now available, Call 519-637-1606 The Rotary Club of St. Thomas is announcing the 2017 Music Festival , to take place February 21,22,23,24, 2017 .

The Syllabus can be found at www.rotarystthomas.org.

Registrants are urged to plan for the entry by December 15, 2016, the deadline. Some printed copies of the Syllabus are available at schools, St. Thomas Public Library and Maestros Music Academy in St. Thomas.

SHEDDEN 2016-17

Shedden Library Hours: Tues. 2:30-8:30, Thurs. 2-5, Fri. 10 - 5, Sat. 2 - 5 764-2081.

Library Holiday Hours: Friday, December 23: 10am - 5pm (drop in to stock up on reading materials for over the break!) Closed December 24 - January 2, Tuesday, January 3: 2:30 - 8:30pm.

Food for Fines - December 1 - 20. Each item donated = $2 in overdue fines. Bring in non-perishable, unopened and unexpired goods, (personal hygiene items are also welcome!) All donations will benefit local food drives!

SPARTA 2016-17

Sparta Stitchers Every Tuesday 1- 4 pm, Sparta Community Hall. We quilt, tat, knit, embroider, smock, crotchet, etc.

Everyone welcome. Cost is $5. session. Come learn a new skill. Sally Martyn (519-775-2292).

PORT BURWELL/VIENNA 2016-17

Port Burwell Legion, Branch 524, Christmas Craft and Bake Sale, December 10, 9am-4pm. Light Lunch available.

1st Port Burwell Scouting Groups will be collecting food items and new toys for the area CHRISTMAS CARE BASKETS, during the Annual Christmas Parade, Dec 3, 6:30 pm. Look for the wagons!A huge Thank You to all those who help make Christmas special for everyone!

Port Burwell Trinity Anglican 11:30 am Port Burwell Lighthouse Gospel Church 10:45 am Trinity Anglican Perish Hall 25 Pitt St. Port Burwell Order of the Eastern Star Areme Chapter #15, OES meets the first Tuesday of every month, at 7:30 pm at the Vienna Community Centre, Vienna.

Otter Valley Naturalists Monthly Meeting is the second Monday of the month, 7 pm to 9 pm. Please call 519 8744028 for information.

Museum Bayham meet the 2nd Wednesday of the month 7pm, Municipal Office in Straffordville. Call 519 874-4135.

Port Burwell - Bayham Horticultural Society, Meets Every 3rd Monday, 7 pm at the Periscope Playhouse Cultural Centre, 42 Wellington St. Info 519 874-4260.

Oriental Masonic Lodge meets the 4th Tuesday of the month at the Vienna Masonic Hall, 7:30 pm. New Members Welcome! Call 519 874-4135.

UNION 2016-17

Union United Church, 6008 Stonechurch Rd., Rev. David Mitchell leads worship with Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Everyone welcome and we are barrier free. 519631-0304 www.unionunitedchurch.ca Christmas Eve Service, December 24, 7 p.m. at Union United Church, Everyone welcome.

Christmas Day Service, December 25, 9:30 a.m. at Union United Church. Everyone Welcome.

VIENNA 2016-17

Bayham Historical Society meets the 2nd Thursday of the month, 7:30 pm at the Vienna Community Centre. All are welcome. Call Bruce at 519 874-1822.

Photographers of the Otter Valley (POV) meet the last Monday of the month, 6:30 pm, Vienna Community Centre.

All are welcome. Call Bruce for details at 519 550-1822.

WEST LORNE 2016-17

The Treble Makers Women's Choir is presenting "Christmas in the Village" on Friday, December 16, 7:30 pm, West Lorne United Church, 273 Graham Road, (chair lift available). The concert features a wonderful collection of Christmas songs as they celebrate their Tenth Anniversary Season. This will be their final Christmas concert.

Call 519-768-1717 for information & tickets.

AYLMER 2016-17

Aylmer 50 + Seniors Welcome you to join them for Euchre or Bridge Every Monday 1 - 3:30 pm upstairs at Aylmer Legion Admission $2.

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

&

SPARTA REPORT

owners Ken and Martha Laing to see about apprenticing on their farm. When the pair suggested Seth bake bread the three set out to build a wood-fired oven on the farm for him to bake with.

The Lake Erie Beacon is pleased to support your local community events. We will make every effort to post promptly and accurately. If you would like to have your event posted on this page contact us at: See The

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of the La Houlette de Vie Bakery teamed up with Orchard Hill Farm to create organic, wood-fired sourdough breads that he sells both through the farm and at markets in St. Thomas and London.

Settling in Sparta after spending four years learning his craft in France, Seth approached Orchard Hill Farm

Baker Seth Wiggin shows off his woodfired oven at Orchard Hill Farm.

Photo Melissa Schneider While he’s used to hand mixing and kneading, Seth just installed a mixer and a sheeter in the last month, getting them ready to use over the winter in preparation for a busy 2017.

The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 16, 2016 • Page 7 The majority of grain he uses comes from the Orchard Hill Farm, where Ken and Martha grow and mill it.

“They helped me get the project off the ground,” Seth said. “When I came home I wasn’t sure what I was going to do whether I was going to work in a more conventional bakery somewhere, I wasn’t sure.” His association with the Laings helped springboard his idea to see if there was a market for his product.

“Certain cereals like spelt are 100 percent sourced from the farm right now, and rye, so it’s really interesting to keep the food even more local. I mean I still use a bit of other flour, like the white flour for croissants comes from Quebec, but they’re also a small scale producer using local grains.”

He said growing, milling and baking are three different crafts and he is grateful to Orchard Hill Farm for meeting him in the middle – growing the grain he bakes with while teaching him the basics of milling.

Anyone interested in purchasing Seth’s bread can contact him via email at lahoulettebakery@gmail.com or by

calling 519-319-3517.

Annual Christmas Concert In other local news, Sparta Public School will be holding its annual Christmas concert titled Sounds of the Season on Tuesday, December 20.

The same concert runs twice – once at 9:30 a.m. and again at 12:15 p.m.

The event is free to the public. In addition, the school is collecting nonperishable canned food items for Christmas Care until school closes for the holidays December 23.

Wishing You A Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year

Customer Appreciation Sale Bear Friend Factory and their artist collective the Whistle Stop Peddlers at 46349 Sparta Line will be holding a Christmas Customer Appreciation Sale December 17-18. The event features refreshments, secret guests and lots of great specials for those who need any last-minute gift ideas.

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December 19-23, 2016 Spirit Day (School) December 23, 2016 Last Day of School January 9, 2016 School Starts, Welcome Back January 13, 2016 P.A. Day, School Closed

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Steve

Captain Hook

A few generations ago, people tended to stay put and keep their homes for their entire adult lives.

Now, I think more tend to move more frequently, sometimes not because they want to but, because things change so drastically that they have no choice.

Three wonderful, black cats were surrendered in late November just for that reason. All are very friendly, can be held and purr up a storm.

Steve is quite a bit shyer and more sensitive than his friends.

He does enjoy being petted but, does not go out of his way to be noticed. Steve is also a bobtail.

Animal Aide Association 333 Talbot St. St. Thomas

519 633-3788

Portia

Captain Hook is so named because he has a kink in his tail that resembles a hook. Super friendly with big golden eyes, Captain Hook is right there when he thinks attention will come his way.

Portia is also front and centre, hoping for love, when she sees someone coming her way. She has a more elegant and exotic appearance with small, delicate paws. Our vet has estimated Steve and Captain Hook at 6 years old and possibly brothers and Portia at 5 years old (although, I believe them to be younger). These sweet cats would love to be back in a home.

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Page 8 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 16, 2016

Embrace Music Through the Ages take us through the earliest years into the December has arrived and with it twenty-first century, a thoughts of Christmas and of course trip through history. We Christmas Concerts. How many of you will begin with hymns remember a Concert from the past? such as Ding Dong MerPerhaps one you were in years ago or rily on High and Sing We viewing a loved one perform on stage. I Now of Christmas, certainly remember many from my music from the 14th childhood, in a small country schooland 15th centuries. We house. The excitement of practising, will move into the 16th preparing and ultimately the performcentury with the English ance night. Now, as adults we are still Christmas carols Covenperforming in Christmas Concerts and try Carol and What loving it! You will be able to join The Child is This. A move a four-week hiatus; what a trooper!

West Elgin Choral Society, Friday, Dethrough the 17th and 18th century will cember 16 at 7:30 at Dutton Town Hall Hence it seems appropriate to connect bring us to God Rest Ye Merry Gentlethe idea of handing down traditions and for “Christmas Through the Ages”. men, and Handel’s O Thou That Tellest particularly Christmas music. As Victofrom The Messiah. We will end the first The choir meets weekly at the hall ria and Zach will be passing their tradihalf of the concert in the 19th century in Dutton and is conducted by Victoria tions, customs and favourite Christmas featuring Whence O Shepherd Maiden Rondinelli. Victoria and Zach obviously music on to little Dante, we see the next and Angels We Have Heard on High. It is feel getting an early start, in music is generation experiencing Christmas our hope that this concert will reveal important as baby Dante Anthony through the ages. the timeless beauty in these ancient arjoined us at our practice November “Christmas Through the Ages” will tifacts and showcase their continued in29th, at the age of 21 days. Victoria took

Leslie Carroll-Frey Picture/Article

T H E L AKE ER I E BEAC ON

spiration in more recent musical compositions. In the second half of “Christmas Through the Ages” the choir will focus on music from the twentieth and twenty-first century. We hope that we will touch upon many Christmas favorites including I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Holly Jolly Christmas, White Christmas, and Merry Christmas Darling. At the end of the night we hope you can recall these songs as your grandparents’ favorites, your child’s favorite or maybe even your own favorite Christmas song. These are the songs of yesterday and today, but these are also the songs of tomorrow, the songs that our future children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren will continue to sing and treasure. Music is timeless and will continue to connect us through the years.

Please join us December 16th at 7:30 Dutton Town Hall Ticket $12 in advance/ $15 at door

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