Serving Lake Erie’s North Shore Friday December 4, 2015
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 STORY PAGE 2 Dicken’s Day Parade.
Hang Up On Telephone Scams It has been reported by one of our readers that he is the victim of an ongoing telephone scam. STORY PAGE 2
Port Stanley Report This year’s Dickens Day Parade was held on Friday November 27th. STORY PAGE 3
Dredging Up The Past Dan McNeil
MP Karen Vecchio Karen Vecchio was named critic/ deputy critic for Families, Children and Social Development. STORY PAGE 4
“You Can Bank On It” Whoever said you can bank on it has never been a client of a chartered bank. STORY PAGE 6
Gifting your time through volunteerism VON Community Support Services offers a way to alleviate some of the gift-giving stress STORY PAGE 6
Guard The Fort If a pipe bursts at home and no one is there to see it, did it really happen? STORY PAGE 9
$2,500 Fine for Careless Hunting Another party member was on the edge of the corn field and was struck in the leg with a buck shot pellet. STORY PAGE 9
LOOK AHEAD Community Events
Page 10
Classifieds & Service Directory Page 11 Business Roladex
Pages 8 & 12
LEB Circulation The Lake Erie Beacon is delivered free of charge to over 6000 homes, apartments and businesses along the north shore of Lake Erie. In addition copies are available at selected locations in Rodney, West Lorne, Dutton, St.Thomas, Copenhagen and Port Stanley for a total print run of 7000.
The historic harbour that was created at the end of Kettle Creek about 1820 always needed dredging. A provincial statute of 1827 authorized the initial construction of wharfs and the dredging of the shallow harbour. That dredging requirement was also always controversial because of the waxing and waning of the commercial viability of the port. After many years the harbour is now being dredged by its new owner, the municipality of Central Elgin (MCE). The harbour property was divested to MCE in September 2010. Transport Canada largely discontinued their responsibility for dredging operations across the country when the “Harbour Divestiture” program was started in 1996. This decision was somewhat problematic with a federal program that was intended to keep harbours viable for commercial use. To keep it accessible to big ships Port Stanley did receive its last complete dredge (to a depth of 22 feet) in 2001. This allowed ships to once again come alongside the silos to load grain. However, that condition lasted only until 2004 before it was, once again, too shallow to be economical for Lakers to call. From then on the Transport
Above: Dredging the harbour has been ongoing for several months and will continue until freeze-up. Left: A graphic from the Riggs Engineering web site showing the heavy sediment deposits in red. Canada strategy for divestiture seemed to change from “commercial viability” to “potential abandonment”. Dredging cost estimates are highly variable and dependant on how the dredged material is disposed of: barged out into the open lake; dumped or pumped onto trucks or directly onto land; or, trucked to an appropriate industrial site for disposal or for further treatment. “Approvals” are required from a variety of government authorities for any decisions made. The conditions and process for approval changes regularly. As a result of the complexity of these decisions project costs are high and difficult to predict. However, in a 1999 study it was determined the average annual cost to keep Port Stanley open was in the range of $500,000 per year. This, plus ongoing infrastructure repair costs, and not being to Seaway depth, made it impossible for Port Stanley to continue being a industrial/comContinued On Page 5
Victoria Rondinelli & The West Elgin Choral Society Helen VanDyk, secretary WECS Victoria Rondinelli is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario, where she completed both her four year Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education (with a specialty in Voice Instruction studying under renowned Canadian Mezzo-Soprano, Anita Krause-Wiebe), as well as her Bachelor of Education at Althouse College (UWO) with Honors and Distinction. Victoria began piano training at age four and voice training at age seven in Niagara Falls, Ontario. She has participated in frequent Kiwanis Music Festival competitions (for both voice and piano) as well as the annual NATS competition here in London. To compliment her love and passion for teaching, Victoria has participated in
various performances in Niagara as well as with the UWO Opera at Western. She began teaching voice privately in Niagara Falls with a small studio in 2007 comprised of voice and piano students and has continued into her current teaching with Sound in Motion studio in London. Victoria’s passion for choral music has provided her the opportunity to conduct children’s choirs, church choirs, high school choirs and community choirs in both Niagara Falls and London which culminated this year when she was recognized by Western University with the 2013 Dawson Woodburn Memorial Award for Excellence in Vocal/Choral Pedagogy. Currently, she is assistant conductor to Dr. Continued On Page 8
Page 2 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015
LETTERS Kudos Linda and Andrew, Thank you for 11 years of great reportage and informative journalism, unbiased and enjoyable. We have read most if not all issues cover to cover. I am re-building a Bunky cabin out back and have stapled several issues to the walls inside the insulation. You will be famous some day. Thanks Brion and Heather Lumley Port Stanley
Dicken’s Day Parade 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 last Friday night. 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, a special thanks must go to the members of Central Elgin Council for your support and joining in, the Port Stanley Firefighters, the Sailors Junior C Hockey team, and the associate’s of the Port Stanley Post Office for collecting more letters than ever to Santa. Thanks to all for your invaluable help. Category prizes were handed out for entrants in the parade were as follows… Best Novelty Float… Port Stanley Optimist Winter Wonderland… Kathy and Jerry Koolen Best Youth… 1st Sparta Cubs Judges Choice… Tomato Soup Band Many thanks to this year’s parade judges, Linda Hibbert and Richard Haddow. A massive thank you to those who either financially or donated items towards the parade, that helped make it the success it was. Thanks also to the Port Stanley Summer Theatre, for supplying hot chocolate to those gathered in the centre of town. Once again we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the major contribution that Mackie’s made to the parade. Instead of a parade fizzling out at the end of the route, every year, Mackie’s have opened their doors, (despite normally being closed this time of year on Friday’s), and provided free hot beverages, cookies, and photos with
Santa. This affords the opportunity for both participants and spectators, to enjoy the camaraderie the parade brings, and sometimes to reacquaint old friendships. 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 726 pounds of non-perishable goods and sundry items during the parade, of which has already been distributed to our local food bank. What a wonderful way to get the community into the holiday spirit. We may be a small village, but each year we prove we are big in heart… Season’s Greetings to you all from the Port Stanley Lion and Lioness Clubs, along with club members Bev and Ray Filewood, Parade Organisers. Bev and Ray Filewood, Parade Organisers, Port Stanley
Provincial Government Program EAT Andrew, I would like to propose that there is an article done on the new Provincial Government Estate Administration Tax (EAT). I have talked to many people and they know nothing of this program. At death (if no spouse is alive) an estate tax is imposed with only 90 days to complete and pay. The penalties for not doing so makes a difficult situation worse. Often the executor is a family member and to add to their burden at a time of bereavement takes a lot of time and is emotionally demanding. It's not a guessing game either. The Province requires you be able to backup what your filing so if you are not sure what the current market value is of a home, for example, it is up to the executor to hire an appraiser. The EAT appraisal includes anything that is not passed directly to a spouse or passed through joint ownership. Assets to charities also need to be included in the valuation. The Tax is then calculated and needs to be paid immediately to the Province of Ontario as a deContinued On Page 9
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Publisher/Editor Andrew Hibbert andrew@lebeacon.ca Advertising Linda Hibbert linda@lebeacon.ca David Crober West Elgin beacon@lebeacon.ca Gloria Wilson East Elgin beacon@lebeacon.ca Letters to the Editor andrew@lebeacon.ca
The Lake Erie Beacon is a community newspaper published every second Friday by Kettle Creek Publishing Ltd. Over 6000 copies are delivered by Canada Post to homes, apartments and businesses along the Elgin County north shore of Lake Erie. The Beacon is also available through Variety Stores, Restaurants, Inns and B&B’s in Dutton, West Lorne, Rodney, St. Thomas, Copenhagen and Port Stanley bringing our distribution to 7000. The Lake Erie Beacon shall not be liable for changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of advertisements or other similar material that has been included in this publication. We reserve the right to edit all submissions including letters to the editor which must be signed and include your name, address and phone number, be in good taste and follow the laws of libel and slander. Anonymous letters will not be published. Articles written by freelance writers do not necessarily reflect the views of The Lake Erie Beacon.
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Hang Up On Telephone Scams Andrew Hibbert It has been reported by one of our readers that he is the victim of an ongoing telephone scam. Over the last couple of weeks, our reader has been called repeatedly by someone claiming to be from Revenue Canada but this caller never uses his name. The caller is very threatening and alleges that our reader owes over three thousand dollars. The caller has left messages threatening serious consequences if the amount is not paid. Our reader has contacted Revenue Canada, who says they know nothing about this problem. He has also spoken to the Ontario Provincial Police who say there is nothing they can do about the calls but referred our reader to their Fraud Centre.
The caller’s phone number seems to be from the Kingston area. We suggested that the reader have the number blocked by his phone service. The OPP said this is a common scam and our reader should just ignore the call. Sometimes this is hard to do when the calls become annoying.
More Fictitious Phone Calls In this note Carol Taplay tells about another phone scam. “Hi folks, Just had a call from a gal telling me that there were three warrants out for me and I was to call this number or they would take legal procedures....the number 613-366-5130. Called the police and she said that they had received 300 calls in the last two days concerning this and NOT to respond, But please pass the word around to everyone.”
$3,000 Fine for Over-Limit of Yellow Perch Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry A Caledonia man has been fined for illegal fishing activities. Robin Urekar pleaded guilty and was fined $3,000 for possessing 58 yellow perch over his possession limit. His fishing licence was suspended for one year. Court heard that on July 28, 2015, a
conservation officer was conducting inspections of vessels as they returned to a boat launch in Port Burwell, Ontario. Upon inspection, Urekar produced a cooler that contained approximately 40 yellow perch. Further investigation revealed a second cooler on the boat containing yellow perch. Urekar was only permitted to possess 100 yellow perch over a two-day period, but was found Continued On Page 9
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015 • Page 3
Continued On Page 8
PORT STANLEY REPORT Andrew Hibbert
Dickens Day Parade Winners This year’s Dickens Day Parade was held on Friday November 27th. The parade was enhanced this year with more than 35 floats including several new entries. The winners of this years judging were “Winter Wonderland” Float: Cathy and Jerry Koolen 1916 Wurlitzer Military Band Organ. “Best Novelty” Float: Port Stanley Optimists Pirate ship. “Best Youth” Float, The 1st Sparta Beaver and Cubs. “Judges Choice” Float: The Tomato Soup Band. We also wanted to congratulate the Port Stanley Sailors Hockey Club for their float and their interaction with the crowd and candy for the kids. Plus several other great floats like, the Barnacles float, The St. Thomas Optimists Snoopy plane, The Port Stanley Leo Club for their Christmas boxed set, The Port Stanley Waves Synchronized Skating float and as always the Mocha Love Bugs. This years Judges were Linda Hibbert from The Lake Erie Beacon and Richard Haddow with Re/Max Centre City Realty. The Lions and Lioness just keep outdoing themselves every year. Congratulations! Port Stanly Dickens Day Parade and the Light Display along Kettle Creek make Christmas. See the “Thank You” letter from Bev and Ray Filewood, Parade Organisers.
Holiday Light Show For Make-A-Wish® In the spirit of the holiday season Dennis Taylor and Raymie Jewell are once again inviting visitors to their home at 291 Selbourne Drive in Port Stanley for a display including lights synchronized to music as well as a tour
Top: Always a winner, Santa’s float. Above: The 1st Sparta Beavers and Cubs. Above Right: The Wurlitzer Organ. of the backyard, which has lights surrounding ponds and up in the trees over 72,000 lights in total! From November 28th to December 31st. Sunday to Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 6 to 10 p.m. Donations to Make-A-Wish® Southwestern Ontario will be gratefully accepted. Please see the attached media release for further details. Continued On Page 7
HealthTalk Steve Bond,
The Common Cold: Which Drug to Treat Your Bug We can put a man on the moon; we can design a handheld device that holds the entire works of William Shakespeare; we can microwave a dinner in 3 minutes. Despite all the advances in human history, one advancement still eludes us — the cure for the common cold. Since ancient times, humans have battled itchy eyes, runny nose and coughs using a variety of home therapies, herbs and medications. But what is effective? What is safe to use? The common cold is an infection of the upper respiratory tract - the nose, nasal passages and the throat. It can be caused by over 200 viruses, but the most common is a family known as the rhinoviruses (“Nose” virus from the Greek Rhino). Symptoms usually show up a couple of days after we become infected. A sore, scratchy throat, sneezing, and a runny nose are early signs of a cold. Later symptoms include headache, stuffy nose, watering eyes, hacking cough, chills, muscle aches, and general malaise (ill-feeling) lasting from 2 to 7 days. Some cases may last for two weeks. Naturally, rest and fluids are the cornerstones
BScPhm, RPh, CDE Pharmacist/Manager
for treating a cold. Fluids such as water, juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey help loosen congestion and prevent dehydration. It is best to avoid alcohol, coffee and caffeinated beverages, which can make dehydration worse. A variety of over the counter (OTC) products exist to treat symptoms. While they do not alter the course of the cold, they may help to relieve symptoms. By using an OTC medication, you can get over a cold in a week; without them it will take 7 days. One of the most common questions asked is “which product is right for me?” With so many products on the market, wading through the cough and cold aisle may seem like a difficult task. A couple of suggestions: Only treat the symptoms you are experiencing; check for conditions such as high blood pressure/diabetes/thyroid disease; and finally ask your pharmacist to select a product that is best for you. Health Canada no longer recommends OTC meds for children under 6. There is limited evidence that these products work in young children and the risk of side effects and overdose outweighs any minute benefits.
Take care of yourself and each other. For more information, check out our blog: yurekpharmacy.wordpress.com 519 Talbot Street, St. Thomas 631-3330 PROFESSIONAL CONSULTATION AVAILABLE CONVENIENT HOURS: Monday to Friday 9 am - 9 pm, Saturday 9 am - 6pm, Sunday 10 am - 4 pm
Page 4 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015 • Page 5
Dredging Up The Past Continued From Page 1 mercial port. Academic studies of the costs of dredging operations on the east coast after divestitures showed those operations cost less than half what the federal government paid when they owned the harbours. This can be attributed to more flexibility and innovation with smaller owner/operators making the decisions about how and when to dredge. MCE’s vision for the harbour includes a healthy commercial fishery and economic development with tourism and recreational activities, with the emphasis on small water craft. This would require a notional depth of only 12 feet. For many years CE has employed Riggs Engineering of London Ontario to do its marine project analysis. If you go to their web site at: http://www.riggsengineering.com/proj ects/PortStanley.asp you will be able to see an animated representation of the sediment settlement patterns in the harbour and at the harbour entrance.
feet depending on other factors like weather and wave conditions. If the entrance to the harbour was dredged to 18 feet the littoral drift of sediment would probably fill it in within one season. When the project was put out to tender there were seven bids. They varied from the low of $3 Million to the highest at $9 Million. This reflected the previously described complexity of the dredging process. The contract also includes elements of the new park. The winning, lowest, bid from Huron District Contracting (Goderich) was based on efficient use of excavators on both sides of the harbour. Your may have seen the yellow marking on the excavator arm so the operator can see it scrape the material from the bottom at the appropriate depth. They also have a barge for the excavator to reach into the center portion of the harbour. Fortunately, the Environmental Risk Assessment on the water portions of the harbour property done in 2009 showed that the bottom sediments are relatively clean. Therefore no special treatment of them is required. The “muck” you see excavated from the harbour is being used to create a new
MP Karen Vecchio Named as Official Opposition Critic for Families, Children and Social Development effective member of such a dynamic team. My 11 years of Constituency Office experience dealing with the genKaren swearing in ceremony eral public on issues such as the Guaranteed Income Supplement, Old on Monday, November 30th Age Security, Canada Child Tax BeneThe Hon. Rona Ambrose, Leader of fit and the Universal Child Care Benethe Official Opposition and Interim fit will be a great asset. My own Leader of the Conservative Party, anpersonal experience as a mother of 5 nounced today the Official Opposition children and daughter of senior citiShadow Cabinet. With the announce- zens will also give me further insight ment, Karen Vecchio was named to the needs of families.” critic/ deputy critic for Families, ChilKaren Vecchio MP Elgindren and Social Development.
Kaylie Vansevenant Member’s Assistant
"I believe the team we have assem- Middlesex-London Public Events bled will be the strongest Official Oppositions this country has ever seen," • Saturday, November 21st said Ms. Ambrose. “I am proud to lead St. Thomas Santa Claus Parade this team of talented and respected inJudging @445 dividuals from across Canada. Together, we will ask the Government the • Saturday, November 21stSt. Thomas Santa Claus Parade tough questions and hold them to acParticipant @6pm count.” Over 5.6 million Canadians voted for the Conservative Party on October 19, leading to one of the strongest oppositions to a majority government in Canadian history. The Conservatives will form a strong opposition and ensure hard-working Canadians and their families are protected and the country's finances kept in check. “I was happy to receive the call from Ms. Ambrose asking if I would serve in the Shadow Cabinet for the Official Opposition as Critic for Families, Children and Social Development” stated MP Vecchio. “. I look forward to my new role and being an
• Tuesday, November 24th – London Caucus Round Table AM980s studio @2pm • Tuesday, November 24th – Anxiety & Your Child event St. Thomas Library @6:30 • Friday, November 27th – Vienna Warden’s Banquet @6pm MP Vecchio will be heading to Ottawa on Saturday, November 28th to prepare for her swearing in ceremony on Monday, November 30th and will then follow with her first week in Ottawa.
There are two separate processes going on: settlement of silt from Kettle Creek; and, sediment from the littoral drift from west to east across the south end of the breakwater. Riggs Engineering has also done the floodplain analysis and mapping for the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority (KCCA). It is not surprising that there is a relationship between the size of the dredged basin in Port Stanley’s harbour and the risk of flooding in the creek and in the harbour. The ability to accommodate more water to avoid flooding is “hydraulic capacity”. The KCCA has developed a partnership with MCE to remediate the risk by monitoring the sedimentation and basin depth and conducting a dredge to increase hydraulic capacity when necessary. Therefore, the current dredging was designed to remove 61,000 cubic meters of material south of the King George VI bridge, but currently not out to the entrance of the harbour. This translates to a depth of about 18 feet below chart datum. This should be sufficient to last 10 to 15 years depending on what decisions may be made about more regular maintenance dredging. The area at the entrance to the harbour will likely remain shallow. The survey from 2013, when the lake was at a very low level, showed depths as low as 10ft below chart datum (“Chart Datum” for Lake Erie is 173.5 meters above sea level). The actual water level was 2 feet above chart datum, therefore depths are 12
A barge tied up in Port Stanley harbour used as part of the dredging operation. piece of MCE property – Hofhuis Park. I will say more about that in a future article. Daniel McNeil is a retired Rear Admiral in the Canadian Navy and, along with his wife Kathy, a resident of Port Stanley. Dan is also the Municipal Councillor for Port Stanley)
December 3 (Preview*) and 4, 5, 11 and 12 ... Pre-show 7:15 PM, Show 7:30 PM December 6 ... 1:45 PM Pre-show 2 PM WEDS Arts Centre 199 Currie Rd, Dutton Adults – $15, Seniors (65+) Students- $10 Family of 4 – $30 *Special Prices for Dec 3 Preview Night- Adults- $10, Seniors and Students -$5 Tickets at the door. Reserve seating 519-762-3487 email weds.ca@gmail.com
Page 6 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015
Gifting Your Time Through Volunteerism
“You Can Bank On It” Jim Taylor Whoever said you can bank on it has never been a client of a chartered bank. Okay, that’s not fair. Banks are, after all, in the business to make money ... by using your money, and mine. Although they won’t get far
Why was it removed? I’ve heard several reasons. One had to do with Mac’s Milk. I’m not making this up. So who cared? I did. It meant I couldn’t simply walk down the Picnic Hill from my condo to get cash to splurge at one of the village’s great eateries and drinkeries. What to do? Well, after a little experimenting we found that a little drive in the country to Shedden on an uncluttered country road was quite scenic and even good for the pastoral soul and all.
VON Community Support Services
Donating just 30 minutes of your time per week =
VON Community Support Services offers a way to alleviate some of the gift-giving stress while providing support to the seniors and adults with a disability on your list. Gift certificates for programs such as Meals On Wheels and Home Help services offer your loved ones some additional assistance with the added benefit of helping them also to remain independently in their own home.
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Donating and gifting your time through volunteerism is a worthwhile way to impact the community and helping others in need. Time is a valuable commodity and one that rarely people feel comfortable giving away. However, volunteering isn’t about giving all your time and dedication, it’s just about giving some. With the holiday season approaching and New Year’s Resolution-making on the horizon, think about how just a small investment of your time can translate into an impact for a better community and the people in it. For example:
5 telephone visits and 5 clients who have had their day brightened.
Donating just 1 hour of your time per week = •
1 Meals On Wheels delivery and approximately 8 clients who were provided with a nutritious meal, a caring smile, and have received a safety check to ensure their wellbeing, or
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1 SMART Exercise class taught and 10 – 20 clients who received not only an amazing high or low mobility work-out, but tips and education on how to prevent falls, or
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1 visit to an isolated senior or client with a disability who now has something to look forward to every week
For more information on gift certificates and/or giving the gift of time through volunteerism and the opportunities available, contact the VON Community Support Services office: 519-637-6408 or toll free: 1-800-201-0909.
Of course winter snows had yet to arrive. I thought I was the only person in the village who was ....disappointed at the axing of the ATM. But judging, from complaints from other Portsiders I was wrong. using mine. Maybe a round for the staff. Assuming it’s a small staff. Okay, that’s a little simplified, but you get it. Take the CIBC ATM at the variety store in Port Stanley. Oh, wait a minute. Somebody already did. When the CIBC ATM was removed from the store recently its owners were distressed. Seems the machine, besides giving you your own cash, brought in customers.
So good news. Finally, a new ATM has been installed. Only with this one you have to pay to retrieve your own money. Really? Who would have thought a missing money machine could be such a pain in the pocket? So to speak. So I was delighted to discover that a new ATM has arrived on the local scene ...at Foodland. A longer walk for me but, hey, at my age I need the exercise. Now, what was that password?
Strengthening Regional Tourism Organizations model is that each RTO across the province sets its own specific objectives The thirteen Regional Tourism Orrelative to the unique offering of the ganizations (RTOs) established by the area represented,” says James Murphy, Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture executive director of RTO12. “Key perand Sport (MTCS) are working collabo- formance indicators (KPIs) established ratively on the implementation of a with MTCS also help drive the business ‘strategic framework for tourism’, of the RTOs to produce measurable rewhich is being developed by the Minsults and optimal ROI; the development istry as part of its ongoing efforts to of a new strategic framework by MTCS build the tourism industry in the will further strengthen alignment beprovince. tween tourism stakeholders, including One outcome of the 2009 Tourism RTOs, to help identify new opportuniCompetitiveness Study Report (Discov- ties to collaborate for maximum impact.” ering Ontario: A Report on the Future of Tourism) was the creation of a reWhile no date has been set for the gional tourism model in the province. launch of the strategic framework by In 2014, the Tourism Industry Associa- MTCS, the 13 RTOs continue to introtion of Ontario was contracted to con- duce innovative and diverse projects in duct a 5-year review of the Ontario to build provincial tourism. For implementation of the Discovering On- a brief summary of region-specific suctario recommendations (20 in all) and, cesses, see below: based on stakeholder feedback, MTCS RTO12 (Explorers’ Edge): Representwill lead the development of a strategic ing Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highframework that will iterate the “key prilands, Loring-Restoule, Muskoka, Parry orities and specific actions both government and industry can take to grow Sound tourism in the province.” This strategic Unique to the RTOs, RTO12 (known framework will be key to fostering in the marketplace as Explorers’ Edge) greater collaboration across the has evolved into a leading content and province by stakeholders, and will allow social media travel marketing organizathe established RTOs to strengthen tion, not only within the province of Ontheir already significant contributions tario, but arguably within the Canadian to the development of tourism in Ontourism industry. tario. As one of the lower-funded RTOs, Ex“What is of note with the regional Continued On Page 11
Erika Navarro Public Relations
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015 • Page 7
Continued From Page 3
Top: The Lion and Lioness Organizers. Second: The Optimist Pirate Ship Float. Above: The Tomato Soup Band.
PSVA Annual General Meeting
Above Right Top: Linda Easton Outgoing PSVA Board Chair and Central Elgin Mayor David Marr Speak At The Meeting.
Port Stanley Report
The Port Stanley Village Association held their AGM on Thursday November 26th at the Port Stanley Legion. Although the turnout has been better in the past there were approximately fifty people in attendance. Guest speakers included Sheila Pinder, Principal of the Port Stanley School who reported on current activities at the school, Central Elgin Mayor David Mar talked about what is happening currently in Central Elgin and Port Stanley Councillor Dan McNeil discussed current issues and happenings in the village. The speakers then answered questions from audience members. After reports from PSVA Board Mem-
Above Right: Port Stanley Councillor Dan McNeil Speaks At The Meeting. bers on current and ongoing projects elections were held for the 2015 Slate of Officers. Elected were Janet Kennedy, Chair, Andrew Hibbert Vice Chair, with Harry Bishop Treasurer and Board Members Dave McCarthy, Gail Lamb, Dave McKee, Fred Heintz, and Wendy MacMillan. Doug Chateauneuf, Bruce Fox, Linda Easton Past Chair and Dan McNeil Central Elgin Rep. Current activities and report are available for viewing on the PSVA Web Site at
www.psva.ca.
Page 8 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015
Victoria Rondinelli & The West Elgin Choral Society Continued From Page 1 Wayne Carroll at Knox Presbyterian Church in St. Thomas, Ontario. Victoria is currently pursuing her Masters of Music Therapy at Wilfrid Laurier University and is very excited to begin her
third year with the West Elgin Choral Society as conductor for the 2015/2016 year.
music to people.”
Join The Choir
Over the years the choir has used Catholic, Presbyterian and Baptist churches in the area for its concerts.
The choir, which works with Wayne Carroll, an acclaimed organist from St. Thomas, aims to sing with approximately 25-30 members.
“We present a total variety of music, sacred, secular, popular,” said Rondinelli. “We think a variety of music is important.”
“We're there for community people who like to sing,” Helen Van Dyk said. Her son, Joel, is a tenor in the choir. “We do our best to provide quality
The choir is open for anyone who loves music to come out to a rehearsal. “We welcome all levels of profi-
ciency,” Van Dyk said. “All you need is your love of music to join.” Over the years the West Elgin Choir has had members of all ages. The choir is inviting anyone interested in singing to come out to the West Elgin Dramatics Society theatre in Dutton. Anyone interested in the choir Call Helen Van Dyk, president of the West Elgin Choral Society in Talbotville,
519-633-1259.
Applications Open for Ontario’s New Connecting Links Program Ministry of Transportation New $15 Million Program Part of Largest Infrastructure Investment in Province’s History The province is opening applications for Connecting Links, a new $15 million annual local infrastructure program, on November 19. The new program will help municipalities pay the construction and repair costs for connecting links – municipal roads that connect communities to provincial highways and border crossings. There are 352 kilometres of connecting links, including 70 bridges, in 77 Ontario municipalities. The program will help to cover the
costs of bridge replacements, pavement rehabilitation, storm sewer construction and intersection improvements. Projects will be funded up to 90 per cent, to a maximum of $3 million.
improve quality of life. Connecting Links projects will build on that progress.
Investing in roads and bridges is part of the government’s plan to build This funding is part of the largest in- Ontario up. The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and frastructure investment in Ontario’s skills, making the largest investment in history — more than $130 billion over public infrastructure in Ontario's his10 years, which is making 110,000 jobs possible every year across Ontario, with tory, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, projects such as roads, bridges, transit and building a secure retirement savsystems, schools and hospitals. ings plan. Ontario is building safe, reliable in“We know that these highways frastructure to help create jobs and enserve as essential links in many comsure a bright future for the province. munities; they carry our loved ones, Between April and September, the our goods, and they keep our economy province announced support for more than 200 projects that will keep people growing. By supporting communities with Connecting Links funding, we’re and goods moving, strengthen the helping to reduce a financial burden economy, connect communities and
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on municipalities, while making the travel and quality of life better for Ontario families.” – Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation “We consulted municipalities across Ontario and heard the need to introduce a new Connecting Links program, and we listened. Our government is committed to working closely with our municipal partners to ensure this program is stronger than ever, so we can improve infrastructure across the province and sharpen Ontario’s competitive edge.” – Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure Funding for the new Connecting Link program is expected to begin in the spring of 2016.
R OLAD EX
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The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015 • Page 9
Radon Gas Health Canada, Ontario Region As Canadians, we all want the cleanest, safest, most secure home environment to live in and raise our families. One way to do this is to monitor our homes for the quality of the air we breathe. Radon gas is not something we hear about every day in Canada; however, radon exposure is a leading cause of lung cancer – second only to smoking.
• Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in the ground and is undetectable by smell, sight, or taste.
• It can seep into a home through cracks in the foundation, pipe openings, and other places where a house is open to the ground.
• All homes have some level of
Guard The Fort – Protect your home before a trip for peace of mind Jon Koidis RSA Canada If a pipe bursts at home and no one is there to see it, did it really happen? I assure you did and it isn’t something anyone wants to find when they return home. While travel insurance is an important pre-vacation purchase, it is also important not to forget the potential issues that may arise at home while traveling. Whether it is preventing damage from a burst pipe or guarding against thieves and vandals, homeowners need to consider the risks that leaving their home unattended presents. RSA Canada, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, offers the following tips for Canadian families before departing on holiday vacations, or any other travels:
No Social Updates – A selfie on the beach may seem like the perfect post, but it advertises an empty home. Save the photos for when you return home or make sure your profile is private
Sound the Alarm (company) – It’s a good protective measure to have a home alarm system. Before you go on vacation, advise your provider and ensure they have an updated call list
Neighborhood Watch – Arrange to have someone check your home regularly, especially if you are going to be away for longer than three days. Have someone check to ensure the heating system is working and pipes have not frozen. Home Activity – Have someone pick up your mail, shovel the driveway and put your lights on timers. By making it look like there is someone home, thieves are less likely to strike Protect the Pipes – It may be worthwhile to turn off the water while away to prevent against ruptured pipes An RSA representative is available to discuss these and other protective measures to take prior to traveling. If you are interested in speaking with him, let me know and I will happily arrange.
$2,500 Fine for Careless Hunting Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry A London area man has been fined for careless hunting. Gerald Bakelaar pleaded guilty and was fined $2,500 for discharging a firearm without due care and attention for people or property. He is prohibited from hunting for three years and must successfully complete the Ontario Hunter Education Course before hunting in the province again. Court heard that on November 4, 2014, Bakelaar was party hunting for deer in the area of Thompson Drive, Middlesex County. Two members of the party entered a standing corn field in pursuit of a wounded deer while Bakelaar and the rest of the group waited close by for the deer to come out. He then fired a shot at the deer as it exited the corn field. It was determined that Bakelaar had fired in the direction of two party members who were in the standing corn. Another party member was on the edge of the corn field and was struck in the leg
with a buck shot pellet. A joint investigation of the incident was conducted by the Ontario Provincial Police, conservation officers and the ministry’s canine unit. Justice of the Peace Jamie Shortt heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, London, on November 9, 2015. Hunters are reminded to be sure of their target and beyond before shooting at wildlife. A conservation officer must be notified as soon as possible if an injury requiring treatment by a physician is caused by the discharge of a firearm while hunting or trapping. For further information on hunting regulations, please consult the Hunting Regulations Summary available at ontario.ca/hunting. To report a natural resources violation, call the MNRF TIPS line at 1-877847-7667 toll-free any time or contact your local ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222TIPS (8477).
radon, the only way to know if it is there is through a simple and inexpensive test. You may purchase a "do it yourself" kit, or hire a professional (consult the National Radon Proficiency Program to find out more).
• Health Canada recommends that homes be tested for a minimum of three months, ideally between September and April when windows and doors are kept closed.
• If your home tests above the Canadian Radon Guideline of 200 Becquerels per cubic metre (200 Bq/m³ ), it is recommended that you take action to reduce your exposure.
• There are techniques to lower radon levels which are effective and can save lives. Radon levels in most homes can be reduced by more than 80% for about the same cost as other common home repairs such as replacing the furnace or the air conditioner.
• The risk from radon is long-term (over decades). The higher the level and the longer a person is exposed, the higher the risk of lung cancer, especially if they smoke. Thank you for helping us in making Canadian homes safe and healthy.
LETTERS Continued From Page 2
posit. The calculation goes like this… $5 for each $1000 of the first $50,000 and then $15 for each $1000. of the estate over $50,000. When a loved one dies and you are named as the executor of the estate you apply for a certificate of Appointment of the Estate Trustee and then you only have 90 days to file the Estate Information Return. As soon as you file, you have to pay the tax as a deposit and if you don't pay, there are serious consequences. The website to go to for more info is: www.fin.gov.on.ca/en/tax/eat. This would seem like just another tax grab. We work and pay income tax, we buy things with our earnings and we pay HST, and when we die we have to pay tax on what we own. I guess the old adage that the only thing to be sure of is "Death ad Taxes" is true. It would seem that the lawyers will benefit too, pay this tax because now we have to decide the legalities of how to overcome this imposed tax. Many have saved to leave trust funds for grandchildren etc. and now what will become of that. Sincerely, Susan Goguen
$3,000 Fine for OverLimit of Yellow Perch Continued From Page 2 with 158. Justice of the Peace Anna Hampson heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, St. Thomas on November 18, 2015. The ministry reminds the public that fishing limits are in place to maintain a sustainable fishery so that anglers and other users may enjoy the resource in the future. For more information on fishing regulations, please consult the Ontario Fishing Regulations Summary available at ontario.ca/fishing. To report a natural resources violation, call the MNRF TIPS line at 1-877-847-7667 toll-free any time or contact your local ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Page 10 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015
North Shore Community Events F E S T I V A L S
PORT STANLEY 2015-16
Port Stanley Community Policing Requires volunteers. To help protect your village, call 519-782-3934 or Carroll at 519-782-7616, email pscp@rogers.com Port Stanley Library 782-4241 304 Bridge St. Mon, Tues, Thurs, 10 - 8:30 Fri 1 - 5, Sat 9 - 1. Holiday Hours: Dec. 24: 10 am-1 pm, Dec. 25, Jan. 1: closed. Jan. 2: 9 am-1 pm. Children’s Programs Read with Maggie! Tuesday, December 8, 6-6:30 pm Sign up for a reading session with our special friend Maggie! For reluctant readers ages 6-12. Please preregister as space is limited! Maker Mondays Monday, December 7, 5:30-6:15 pm Calling all makers! Come for a hands on maker session as we explore a multitude of mediums! For ages 6-12, please preregister. PajamaRama Monday, December 7, 6:30-7:00 pm Stories and songs for all ages & their caregiver please preregister PreSchool Story Time Tuesday, December 8, 10:15 am11:00 am. Join us for songs, stories and crafts! For ages 0-5 and their caregiver please preregister Adult Programs & Events IttyBittyKnittyCommittee Thursdays, December 10, 7:008:00 pm. Bring your knitted or crochet project for an informal meeting. Share projects & patterns, learn from others & pick up new tricks! Card Making Monday, December 14, 10:00 am- 12:00 pm Create a handmade card with Jean. $5 / person please preregister, prepayment is required! Adult Book Club Tuesday, December 15, 7:00-8:00 pm Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel. New Members always welcome! New glasses? Drop off your old ones (even in pieces!) and cases to the library, which works with the Lions Club to send to people in need. Christ Anglican Church Sunday Morning Service, 9:30 am with Eucharist. We invite all to join in worship with us. Coffee follows downstairs. St. John's Presbyterian Church Tom Jeffrey Pastor. Sunday Worship 10 am followed by Fellowship Hour. The Door is always open, why not join us? Sunday School starts at 10:20 am. 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 Cantata The Jesus Gift Cantata will be sung by a 23 voice choir led by Lindsay Traichevich on December 6, 10:30 am. A perfect beginning to the Christmas season. Wheelchair accessible. Heritage Port Christmas Meeting.... The meetings this month is December 17th, 1:30 pm at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre. Get your Port Stanley the First 100 Years Book, $25 at the Lake Erie Beacon, 204-A Carlow Road, side door, 1-5 pm. Proceeds to Heritage Port. 519 782-4563. Heritage Port January 2016 meeting is also the Annual General Meeting. The meetings are now being held the 4th Thursday of the month at 1:30 at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre. Get your Port Stanley the First 100 Years Book, $25 at the Lake Erie Beacon, 204-A Carlow Road, side door, 1-5 pm. Proceeds to Heritage Port. 519 782-4563. Port Stanley Village Association meets the 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: Mon. 12-7, Tues., Wed., Thurs., & Fri., 12-10, Sat. & Sun., 12-7. Port Stanley Legion Branch #410 Don’t forget the Legion offers the following: Seniors Bridge, Tues. night, Euchre: Wed. night Legion Darts Tuesday night 8 pm Men’s Darts Saturday Afternoon Meat Draws 3-5 pm Port Stanley Legion Bottle Returns Mon & Thurs- Closed, Tues, Wed., Fri, Sat 12-4 pm. Port Stanley Legion Ladies MahJongg, Fridays 1:30pm. We are looking for beginners as well. If you like to play MahJongg come on out! Port Stanley Legion Port Stanley Karaoke, Every 3rd Friday of the month, 7pm - 11pm. Come for the fun.
E V E N T S
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 Port Burwell School, Strachan Street. For more Info 519 874-4260. Port Burwell Historical Society meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month, 7 pm at the Marine Museum. Call 519 874-4135. Oriental Masonic Lodge meets the 4th Tuesday of the month at the Vienna Masonic Hall, 7:30 pm. New Members Welcome! Call 519 874-4135. Photographers of the Otter Valley (POV) meet the last Monday of the month, 6:30 pm, Bayham Public Library in Straffordville. All are welcome. Call Bruce at 519 874-1822.
AYLMER 2015-16 Aylmer 50 + Seniors Welcome you to join them for Euchre or Bridge Every Monday 1 - 3:30 pm upstairs at Aylmer Legion Admission $2.
DUTTON 2015-16 Dutton & District LIONS Sunday, Dec. 13, LIONS famous, full breakfast; in Lion’s DEN; just behind the Dutton Dunwich Community Centre. Adults $7 with eggs cooked to order; plus, toast, coffee, juice; bacon or sausages, home fries & pan-cakes. Serving 9 AM till 12 noon. West Elgin Choral Society presents A Picturesque Christmas, Dec. 18, 7:30 pm. Upper Town Hall Dutton,Tickets $12 adv. $15 at the door, under 16 free, $7 students. Tickets 519 768-3491 or 519 762-2862.
FINGAL 2015-16
"The downturn in global financial markets resulted in a disappointing reduction in the revenue available for grants this year." , said Terry Campbell, Chair of the Foundation. “Nonetheless, our focus on helping the needy in our communities continues with twenty two charitable organi-
The Forever Legacy Foundation is managed solely by unpaid volunteers. Expenses are restricted to endowment investment fees and an annual audit required by Canada Revenue Agency. 100% of net annual earnings on endowment funds are granted for charitable purposes. The Foundation's asset base of over $6 Million continues to grow with donations and pledged bequests.
2015 Charitable Grants Charity
Purpose
$
Port Stanley Public School
Breakfast Program
1,250
Merrymount Children's Centre, London
Child Nutrition
1,250
The Maycourt Club of London
School Nutrition Program
1,250
Christmas Care, St. Thomas
Food & Clothing
1,250
St. Thomas Elgin Second Stage Housing
Operating Costs
1,000
Port Stanley Food Bank
Food
1,000
Port Stanley Cat Rescue
Spay & Neuter Program
500
Port Stanley Gardeners
Community Development
500
Port Stanley Festival Theatre
Youth Theatre Program
1,000
London Humane Society
Animal Food & Medication
9,000
New St. James Presbyterian Church
Operating Costs
9,000
Women's Community House - London
Emergency Transportation
18,000
Mission Services of London
Children & Family Support
35,000
St. Joseph's Health Care - Parkwood
Veterans’ Care Equipment
35,000
Food & Clothing
28,000
St. Vincent de Paul Society
Food & Clothing
18,000
SHEDDEN 2015-16
St. Thomas Caring Cupboard Food Bank
Food & Clothing
17,000
Sparta Stitchers Every Tuesday 1- 4 pm, Sparta Community Hall. We quilt, tat, knit, embroider, smock, crotchet, etc. Everyone welcome. Cost is $5. session. Come learn a new skill. Sally Martyn (519-775-2292). Qigong will run every Sunday from 1:00 till 2:30 pm. Call Christine for more information 519-775-2748.
ST. THOMAS 2015-16
Abundant Life Fellowship Join us at the Timken Community Centre - Doug Tarry room (2 Third Ave.) at 6 pm on Saturdays for a free meal followed by our celebration service. For more info call 519-633-9207 or go to www.abundantlifestthomas.ca Annual Christmas Carol Sing at the Old St. Thomas Church, 55 Walnut St. St. Thomas is being held Sunday, December 6, 2015 @ 3:00 PM. Emcee Steve Peters, Guest Speaker Rev. Canon Nick Wells, Church shaped cookies, hot cider and mince tarts served. Free will donations to Salvation Army Family Services. Dress warmly. Central United Church, Carols by Candlelight - Sunday, Dec. 6th at 7:00 p.m. Join us in singing Christmas Carols, and also enjoy some special music presented proceeds to The Talbot Teen Centre. For Information call 519-614-3249.
TYRCONNELL 2015-16
Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Line, 519-762-3072. Backus-Page House Museum Monthly Clubs! 4th Tuesday, Family History Club 7pm THS Members free or $5/person. 2nd Wednesday, Textile Arts Club (bring your own project or hand quilt with us) 7pm THS Members free or $5/person
UNION 2015-16
Union United Church, 6008 Stonechurch Rd., Rev. David Mitchell leads worship with Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. We are welcoming friendly Family of Faith and are barrier free. For info 519-631-0304 and our website: www.unionunitedchurch.ca
VIENNA 2015-16 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.
The Lake Erie Beacon is pleased to support your local community events. We will make every effort to post promptly and accurately. If you would like to have your event posted on this page contact us at: See The
519 782-4563 or
Port Stanley, Ontario - The Forever Legacy Foundation will grant $218,500 in the communities of London/Middlesex and Elgin/St. Thomas this year.
zations and projects funded.” , added Mr. Campbell.
Salvation Army, London & St. Thomas
SPARTA 2015-16
Port Burwell Trinity Anglican 11:30 am Port Burwell Lighthouse Gospel Church 10:45 am Trinity Anglican Perish Hall 25 Pitt St. Port Burwell Nativity Display Over 300 hundred Nativities from many countries on display Dec 4 and 5, 1-8pm. Dec 6, 1-6 pm. Admission is free. All Are Welcome. Donations accepted. Port Burwell Legion Br. 524 Trivia on Monday evenings, start 5pm. In the club room, all welcome. Port Burwell Legion Br. 524 December 5 Breakfast with Santa 8 am till 11 am. Port Burwell Legion Br. 524 December 5th All you can eat Spaghetti Supper 3:30 pm till 5:30 pm, $10 per person, Kids half price. Have your supper before going to Santa Parade.
Board of Directors
Knox Presbyterian Church Worship 10 am. Coffee, cookies, fellowship follows: Sunday school/nursery 10 am. For info (519) 769-2157. Come and worship with a warm and friendly group of people, we are barrier free. Knox Presbyterian Church - Christmas Eve service at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Shedden Library Hours: Tues. 2:30-8:30, Thurs. 2-5, Fri. 10 - 5, Sat. 2 - 5 764-2081. Holiday Hours: Dec., 22 2:30-8:30 pm. Dec. 23, Jan. 1 closed. Jan. 2, 2-5 pm. Children’s Programs PreSchool Story Time Friday, December 11, 11:00-11:45 am. Join us for songs, stories & crafts! For children ages 0-5 with a caregiver. Please preregister. Adult Programs & Events *NEW* Book of the Month! The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd. Sign up to read our book of the month chosen by your librarians! Christmas Card & Craft Making Tuesday, December 8, 6:00 7:00 pm. Join us to make a Christmas card and snowman craft with Karen! $5 / person please preregister. Knitting and Crochet Group Tuesday, December 8, 7:00-8:00 pm. Join us with your latest project for an informal group to sit and share, learn from others and pick up new tricks!
PORT BURWELL/VIENNA 2015-16
The Lake Erie Beacon 204 A Carlow Road Port Stanley, Ontario N5L 1C5 Phone: (519) 782-4563
&
The Forever Legacy Foundation
linda@lebeacon.ca
Lake Erie Beacon on facebook and www.issuu.com
WOTCH Community Mental Health Services Food & Clothing
18,000
Glen Cairn Community Resource Centre
Food & Clothing
10,000
YOU - Youth Action Centre
Mother & Children Program 10,000
Boy's & Girl's Club of London
MAP Program
840
Salvation Army, Westminster Park
iRead Program
830
London Health Sciences Foundation
FEMAP Program
830
TOTAL
$218,500
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015 • Page 11
North Shore Community Classified Serving over 7000 Homes, Apartments, Farms & Businesses COTTAGE FOR RENT
PORT STANLEY OPTIMIST - ANGEL TREE
Port Stanley The Beach House – 2 bedroom Beach. Artist Cottage – 1 bedroom Beach. Available: 1 December 2015 – 31 May 2016. No smoking, no pets. See
The Optimist Club of Port Stanley will once again sponsor their Christmas Angel Tree at the Port Stanley Library.
www.westharbouronthebeach.ca
or for further details call 519-434-2229.
CONDO FOR RENT Three bedroom condo in Port Stanley with two large decks (one facing Kettle Creek and the other facing the pool), one and a half bathrooms, walk in closet in master, all new flooring and paint, new appliances (fridge, stove, washer, dryer) and dishwasher, air conditioning and gas fireplace and much more. $1450 plus utilities. Email
Our Angel Tree Service will be in the Library on Saturday, December 5th, 11 am If you would like to purchase a Remembrance Angel for a family member or friend please call Linda Hibbert at 519 782-4563 for details. Please make cheque payable to: Optimist Club of Port Stanley. The cost for an Angel is $10 each. You may drop your cheque off to the Lake Erie Beacon Office, 204-A Carlow Road, Port Stanley, side door. Behind LCBO. Angels are to celebrate the lives of family members or friends who are no longer with us.
Port Stanley Public School 350 Carlow Road, Port Stanley N5L 1B6 Phone: 519-782-3983
School Activities December 2015 December 8 - Holiday Concert 2:15 PM Holiday Concert 6:30 PM December 9 - Hot Lunch Day (School) Pizza Day December 16 - Hot Lunch Day (School) Christmas Lunch December 18 - Assembly (School) Character Assembly 11:30 AM December 18 - Assembly (School) Character Assembly 11:30 AM
Strengthening Regional Tourism Organizations Continued From Page 6
monthly record in September 2015, with 29K referrals being achieved • Since the introduction of the lead nurturing strategy, open rates for customer emails have increased to between 47-61% (from 29% average), and click rates have increased to between 11-22% (from 4.5% average). Additionally, 2K names of potential travelers have been added to the database since the introduction of lead nurturing, primarily from content marketing.
plorers’ Edge relies on the guiding mantra of “do more with less” to set measurable objectives and to build new audiences for its respective subregions. To that end, the organization has seen great success in abandoning • The introduction of the Jack Rabbit the traditional outbound marketing booking engine has seen an addiactivities it engaged in for the first few tional success in diverting visits to years of operation (e.g. OOH, radio, the Explorers’ Edge site to tourism print), to developing innovative inoperators (30K outbound referrals bound strategies, including content since September 2014) marketing and (new in 2015) a lead nurturing program using Hubspot • Explorers’ Edge annually invests software. $160K in matching funds to support collaborative projects in the region, The results of this strategy including the What’s Cooking Braceinclude: bridge event, the Kearney Dog Sled • Explorers’ Edge has the secondRaces, Resort of North Muskoka, highest followers on Facebook of Golf Muskoka and more. the RTOs (second only to Toronto), Additionally, Explorers’ Edge has with 89K fans made significant investment in sup• Explorers’ Edge has seen substantial year-over-year visits to its con- porting and promoting product development in the region, including the Ice sumer website, including a Trail at Arrowhead Provincial Park, fat record-setting month in Septembiking on Georgian Bay, snowmobiling, ber 2015, when 122K visits to the the innovative Group of Seven and site were achieved (a 34% inOutdoor Gallery self-guided mobile crease) tour – the first in a ‘Signature Suite’ of • Outbound links to individual self-guided tours for visitors to take on tourism operators and stakeholdtheir phones and tablets. ers by site visitors reached a
December 18 - resumes January 4, 2016 Winter Break
joannazietek@hotmail.com
Have a Safe and Happy Holiday!
CHRISTMAS TREES
LOOKING FOR A “FOREVER HOME”!!!
Christmas Trees
Garfield is declawed and of a slightly timid nature? He's a sweet boy, looking for love for Christmas.
Create a memory! Leos Tree Farm, 24484 Silver Clay Line West Lorne Any size or type of tree $36. Free Hot Chocolate. Leashed pets welcome! www.leostreefarm.com
Only 20 days till Christmas! Merry Christmas Everyone!!!
Garfield Garfield is, as you can imagine, a rather chubby (and I'm being kind), orange tabby boy. He came to us Sept. 1, 2015 and it was quite apparent that he had not missed many meals. Garfield is currently on a diet food and will probably need to remain on it unless he has a lot of stairs or an exercise regime in his new home. Did I mention that
Garfield is just one of 776 cats and kittens rescued by Animal Aide in the first 10 months of 2015 with more coming since then. Yes, that is correct. 614 have been adopted in the same 10 months, all have been spayed or neutered with shots. As you can imagine, vet bills have been stratospheric. This Christmas, for that special someone who says they don't need or want anything, maybe you would consider a donation to your favourite rescue group in their name, whether that be Animal Aide, All Breed Canine Rescue, Charity Cat or any number of other groups, all if whom desperately need funding. All rescue groups are struggling and all would really appreciate your support. Give a meaningful gift this Christmas and help to save a life.
Animal Aide Association 333 Talbot St. St. Thomas
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Page 12 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday December 4, 2015
Scouts Canada Ensures “No One Left Behind” Scouts Canada Do you know a family that needs a little extra help this holiday season? Scouts Canada has a program called No One Left Behind that helps reduce the economic barriers to participation by subsidizing membership fees and related costs such as uniforms, program equipment and activities, for youth whose families are experiencing financial hardships.
Scouts Canada relies on the support of public donations to help ensure that any child who wishes to participate in Scouting will not be left behind. To help Scouts Canada assist even more families and give a child the gift of Scouting, donate at scouts.ca/nolb.
the best in themselves in a social environment, experience personal growth and enjoy experiences they wouldn't have elsewhere such as international trips, white water rafting, rock climbing and rappelling. Registration for Scouts Canada programs is open year-round at scouts.ca.
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519-782-3392
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This Full colour book by authors Bob Burns and Craig Cole available now at The Lake Erie Beacon, The Village Square Coffee Shop & The PSTR Gift Shop. $25. Book size 8.5” X 11” A Heritage Port publication