Serving Lake Erie’s North Shore Friday October 31, 2014
INSIDE Port Stanley Report Great entertainment, Penny table and 50/50 draw, Door prizes other draws, finger food and Decadent cheese cakes finished off the evening. STORY PAGE 2
Port Burwell Report We often talk about Citizen of the Year. In the case of the sale of the old fire hall, Susan Start might be nominated for Citizen of the Century. STORY PAGE 2
Central Elgin Unveils Plans for Hofhuis Park Central Elgin Council members were present as well as several staff members who had worked with Sylvia Hofhuis. STORY PAGE 3
Save A Silo Campaign! The Silos (grain elevators) are located on the west side of the harbour and have been a familiar sight in Port STORY PAGE 5 Stanley.
Stories For Halloween Andrew Hibbert The History of Halloween David Harding
A victory celebration in Bayham. Photo: By Cliff Dickinson
Local Municipal Election Results Across Southwestern Ontario, many smaller communities are moving from paper ballots in favour of digital or electronic vote counting, what has come to be known as e-voting.
Halloween is a holiday celebrated on the night of October 31.Traditional activities include Trick-Or-Treating, costumes, Haunted Houses and Carving Jack-O-Lanterns. My father came from Ireland and Irish immigrants carried versions of the tradition to the new world in the 19th Century. The Samhain (pronounced Saahwin) is a Gaelic festival marking the end of the harvest season and the be-
ginning of winter or the "darker half" of the year. It includes taking stock of supplies at the end of growing season and preparing for the long cold nights ahead. The festival is also known as All Hallow’s Eve. Masks and costumes were worn in an attempt to mimic evil spirits and appease them and bonfires were lit (not suggested today). The Trick or Treat aspect is a threat to play a trick on a homeowner’s property if a treat of candy or apples is given. So remember, turn on your porch light, stock up on goodies, enjoy the evening, or suffer the consequences!
larger communities including London have stayed with paper ballots. We now have the results of the
Community Events
Page 6
Classifieds & Service Directory Page 7 Business Roladex
Page 8
Richard & Helen Haddow Sales Representatives
Centre City Realty Inc Brokerage
Independently Owned and Operated
Thinking of buying or selling... We can help!
519-495-0789 Richard Direct
We Live in Port Stanley You Should Too!
Whyte’s Station is a quiet spot away from local homes or farms. Whyte’s is a flag stop on the PSTR between Port Stanley and St. Thomas. Over twenty years ago now I was working by myself building a switch, work that involved cutting the rails, installing tie rods and bolting the new structure in place. About a month later, I was at the same switch doing some additional work when I had the distinct impresContinued On Page 4
Local Municipal Election Results
STORY PAGES 1, 6 & 7
LOOK AHEAD
The Ghosts of Whyte’s Station Robert Weare
Andrew Hibbert Congratulations to all those who voted in this Municipal election. The Polls were busy and the numbers of voters seemed to be up over the previous election, although percentages were not available at press time. Across Southwestern Ontario, many smaller communities are moving from paper ballots in favour of digital or electronic vote counting, what has come to be known as e-voting. The reasoning is to boost low voter turnout and speed up manual vote counting. In the future the fully electronic, clicka-vote and dial-a-vote may be implemented. It’s interesting that some
October 27 election. Votes in most communities were tabulated electronically. When your ballot was inserted Continued On Page 6
Thank You For Your Support Looking forward to the next four years.
David MARR Mayor Central Elgin 519-782-3836 grvalley@rogers.com
Page 2 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday October 31, 2014 no different in 2014 than it was in 1814, Start declared.
PORT STANLEY REPORT
PORT BURWELL REPORT
Andrew Hibbert
Allan Spicer
Lioness Wine and Cheese evening Friday, October 24/14
Port Burwell heritage kept in tact, so far!
We had a very successful event with over One Hundred and fifty ladies being entertained for the evening. Plus all the Lioness that acted in skits and modeled clothing from Studio Style of Port. Our Musical Entertainer was Bob Finlay, who this year is celebrating 45 years of professional entertainment with performances that include Scotland, the US and Canada. His claim to fame is opening for Celtic Greats including, The Rankins, Barra McNeils and Natalie McMaster. He held our ladies in the palm of his hand during
October 27th was the Port Stanley Legion Awards Night where Legion volunteers were honoured. Above Legion President Paul Caldwell awards the “Legionnaire Of The Year” plaque to Joan Smith. his two 25 minutes segments. Great entertainment, Penny table and 50/50 draw, Door prizes other draws, finger food and Decadent cheese cakes finished off the evening. This year our major donation will be to the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital in support of ( Laparoscopic bowel surgery) and our other community projects. Many Thanks to all the Local Business’s and our greater community, that support this fund raising event every year. Thanks to Lioness Penny Tolmie (MC for the event) for this report.
We often talk about Citizen of the Year. In the case of the sale of the old fire hall, Susan Start might be nominated for Citizen of the Century. On Oct. 21, Susan and 23 supporters attended the Elgin County Council meeting in St. Thomas. Susan told County Councillors that she represented 100 neighbours. She made a presentation pertaining to the OP amendment and rezoning to accommodate the sale of the old Fire Hall property,
Tickets $17 advance; $20. at the door Available at: Berry Hill & Apropos
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For Tickets &/or Info call 519-633-0838
Publisher/Editor Andrew Hibbert andrew@lebeacon.ca Advertising Linda Hibbert linda@lebeacon.ca Diane Sura diane@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 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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The Race is On!
I am available at all times to help with concerns and appreciate your confidence in me.
“TOUR of HOMES”
WARD 2 Councillor
LETTERS
for supporting me in this election.
Christmas in St. Thomas November 14th, 15th &16th Friday “Candlelight Preview” 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Continued On Page 3
Thank You Central Elgin
Presents its 19th Annual
DENNIS CREVITS
This fact drove home Susan's contention that Col. Burwell deliberately left Market Square to the citizens in perpetuity.
Good afternoon, Mr. Hibbert. I just wanted to take a moment to personally Susan did not view this rezoning at all thank you for the absolutely wonderful arminor. Susan Start is an historian who has ticle you wrote in the latest edition of The written several articles. Her power point Lake Erie Beacon entitled The Race is On! presentation caught the rapt attention of Thankfully, your choice of words are the County Councillors, showing 200 much more eloquent and certainly diployears of maps, clearly showing the Fire Hall as part of the four comers, the histor- matic than mine would have been at this point in my rising level of non-voter frusical designation of Market Square. Susan pointed out that Market Square is listed trations -- so well done! in the National Archives. Market Square is Hugely appreciated, Margot Pieters Vienna
Rotary Club of St.Thomas Thank you Ward 2 for your support
Susan described Market Square and Trinity Anglican Church as part of Col. Burwell's lasting legacy bequeathed to Port Burwell. Market Square is Registered Plan 12. There are no individual properties listed in Plan 12, confirmed by the Elgin Land Registry in 1985. She added, Market Square is a single contiguous entity. In 2007, the Market Square property was listed as 0011, Registered Plan 12, 1836.
tcg@execulink.com 519-775-2292
Remembrance Day Parade We will be observing our annual Remembrance Day Parade on Sunday November 9th. The Parade will form on Main Street near the Wharf Restaurant at 10:30 and march to the Cenotaph for the 11:00 A.M. service. Everyone is welcomed and we encourage children to attend.
Poppy
Campaign
The members and friends of the Port Stanley Legion will conduct their annual Poppy Distribution Campaign on Friday October 31st, Saturday November 1st, 2014. Any business or individual wishing to donate can make cheques payable to the Port Stanley Legion Branch 410 Poppy Fund. A tax receipt will be issued upon request. Volunteers Welcome! November 9th at 10:30 am There will be a Memorial Service at Veterans Park in front of the Legion If you wish to have a box of Poppies at your location please contact Betty Kennedy Poppy Chair for Branch 410
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 410 310 George Street, Port Stanley
(519) 782-3118
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday October 31, 2014 • Page 3
Central Elgin Unveils Plans for Hofhuis Park in Port Stanley Andrew Hibbert
saw the Municipality acquire the harbour in 2010. Unfortunately, she passed away before the actual transfer of land. Hofhuis Park will commemorate Sylvia’s many contributions to Central Elgin, and celebrate the vision that she had for the Port Stanley harbour.”
Friday October 24th was a bright, if somewhat blustery day in Port Stanley. On the West Harbour walkway a large group of dignitaries and guests were gathered beside the outer harbour. They were present to hear an announcement that commemorated the work and vision of former Central Elgin Mayor Sylvia Hofhuis. Sylvia’s many years of commitment to the community, which included acquisition of Port Stanley’s Main Beach as public land, culminated in the acquisition of the Harbour Lands as municipal property. Both Central Elgin’s Mayor Walters and Don Leitch CAO, referenced Sylvia Hofhuis’s involvement in acquiring the Main Beach. Sylvia served on the Council (as Councillor and Deputy Reeve) that acquired the Main Beach from private interests.
Sylvia was the wife of John Hofhuis, a family physician serving Port Stanley and Elgin area for over 35 years. She held many positions throughout her political career, being elected to the Village of Port Stanley Council as Councilor, Deputy Reeve and Reeve, and later elected as Deputy Mayor and then Mayor of the Municipality of Central Elgin. She also served on Elgin County Council, and was Warden in 2008.
In 1989, approximately 7 acres of the Port Stanley beach was conveyed to the then Village of Port Stanley as parkland dedication for the Newport Beach and Mariners Bluff condominium developments. The Municipality also negotiated, at that time, an option to purchase the balance of the beach (approximately 3 acres). The Village exercised this option in 1991 bringing the current limits of the Main Beach under municipal, public ownership.
members who had worked with Sylvia Hofhuis. Also present were colleagues from several other Municipalities and representatives of the Port Stanley Harbour Vision Committee who have worked with council on the vision for Amongst the invited guests were Joe the future of the harbour. Preston Member of Parliament for At the ceremony held on Friday afElgin-Middlesex-London and Jeff Yurek ternoon, the Council of the Municipalour provincial MPP who both spoke at ity of Central Elgin unveiled plans for the ceremony as did Elgin county war- the design and construction of Hofhuis den and Central Elgin Deputy Mayor Park, which will commemorate the David Marr along with Dr. John years of service dedicated by Sylvia Hofhuis. John noted that it was Sylvia’s Hofhuis (1954-2010) and Dr. John vision to make Port Stanley a jewel in Hofhuis to the community. Hofhuis southwestern Ontario, and that she Park will be located inside the west wanted this to become one of those breakwater, developed upon material destination places. dredged from the harbour. The containment cell to hold the dredged maCentral Elgin Council members terial will be constructed throughout were present as well as several staff
Port Burwell Report Continued From Page 2 Susan and David Start now own the Hughes House. They are very careful to maintain any historical features of the house abutting the Cenotaph. The Bodsworth Library, the basketball courts and the Fire Hall round out the four pillars of Market Square at Pitt and Erieus. Col. Burwell included an important codicil in the Market Square in the property description. In essence, the good burghers of Port Burwell were the heirs or inheritors of Plan 12, Market Square in perpetuity! The historic site was to be used for the good of Port Burwell. Susan saw confirmation of Market Square as an historically and legal entity, by virtue of the following:
squared or 3363 in. square. Susan painstakingly uncovered Col. Burwell's genius in protecting a pubic legacy for Port Burwell, She cautioned County Council, a proper rezoning requires both the road allowance to be stopped up and public notice of a sale. She concluded, Market Square has existed 185 years as a public trust. The Elgin County Planner recommended approval of the rezoning. Central Elgin Mayor Bill Walters, quickly moved to defer a zoning decision to investigate the very new, important information, the road allowance. Malahide Deputy Mayor Jim Jenkins seconded the motion, describing Susan's report as clearly the finest presentation he had witnessed in his four years as a County Councillor.
Provincial Policy, Elgin County, the Municipality of Bayham Policy, the 2005 Cultural Plan and the 2014 Master Plan.
Bayham Mayor Paul Ens applauded Susan's presentation, adding, the rezoning was not a unanimous decision (3-2 recorded vote). Ens also supported the Walters motion.
Susan related our vision of the Fire Hall parcel, providing 12 parking spaces, landscaped with Carolinian species, and historical recognition and depiction. It's good planning, Start added, implying that a private sale was not.
It appears that County Council may not approve the Fire Hall rezoning as it stands, pending investigation of Susan Start's information pertaining to the road allowance nature of the Market Square, a single contiguous entity!
Susan went on. Market Square was not included in Col. Burwell's will. In fact, no land, per se, was mentioned. New information shows that Market Square was a road allowance, 66x3 in.
A shot over the bow for the incoming Council. - you will be watched by an informal group of well informed, talented, progressive and energetic individuals in Port Burwell and Bayham proper.
the winter of 2014/2015. Dredging will commence fall of 2015. After allowing time for the dredged material to settle, the Park itself is projected to be developed in 2017. The containment cell and dredging will be funded from the $13.5 million Transport Canada contribution when the harbour lands were acquired. The park amenities will be funded by the income earned on this contribution. There is no intention to fund the development of the park from tax dollars. Mayor Walters said, “Sylvia was an early supporter of the vision to acquire and redevelop the Port Stanley harbour and waterfront, and she played a very important role in bringing the Blue Flag to Port Stanley Main Beach. She was involved in the negotiations that
PORT BRUCE REPORT Cathy Crane
Leaf Collection
Retiring Mayor Bill Walters speaks to the Hofhuis family and invited guests. The Municipality is currently waiting for final approvals on the work from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. In the upcoming months, the Municipality will call for tenders for the development of the containment cell and construction of the boat ramp to be built at the end of Carlow Road. Plans unveiled at the ceremony can be viewed on signage at the south end of Carlow Road, here, or on the Municipal website at www.centralelgin.org. Malahide is providing leaf and yard waste collection for Port Bruce and Springfield residents. Yard waste, such as grass clippings, leaves, garden plants, pine needles and cones etc., must be placed in paper leaf bags and set out on your regular garbage day starting the week of November 3rd through to the week of December 1st. In addition to the large brown leaf bags, brush and tree
Again this year, the Township of
DAN
Continued On Page 7
McNEIL
Thank You Port Stanley for your support and confidence. It will be an honour to continue working as your Councillor. Expect exciting and positive changes in Central Elgin and Port Stanley. Councillor Ward 1 Port Stanley Email: dkmcneil@rogers.com
Phone: 519-782-4339
Page 4 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday October 31, 2014 rence all across the beachfront of Lake Erie in both Pennsylvania and Ohio for a phantom ship to appear on the horiTyrconnell was also somewhat famous Continued From Page 1 zon just for a few minutes before it for its whiskey. The first distillery was fades away into a haze. Now ore carriers sion of a northbound train speeding by. built in 1826. Many typical businesses, are still a common site on most of Lake church and school followed as TyrconIt was kind of all white and very quiet Erie, and it is not unusual to see them and I could see the faces of young chil- nell grew in size. In 1861 a 500 X 30 foot pier was constructed out into the lake to slowly crawl across the horizon as you dren in the windows, but they weren’t relax on a Lake Erie beach during a hot smiling, just staring down at me as I accommodate larger ships. (The resummer day. But no ore carrier of today stood beside the track. mains of a pier can be seen in the athas that old configuration and belches tached photo.) In the 1850's the railway Years later I was talking to a dark smoke from two forward smoke age began. Eventually Port Stanley and stacks. And none of them just fade away Yarmouth Township employee. I told him about my run-in with the supernat- Port Burwell (both to the east) got rail into the horizon. The usual beach goer ural at Whyte’s Station. He looked at me service. As with many settlements of may be too caught up to take much noquite matter-of-factly and said oh yeah this era, the lack of rail service caused a tice, but I have heard on more than one steady decline in population and other occasion where someone was taking in that section of track is haunted! I have than the farms in the area the village often wondered why! the panorama of Lake Erie to simply see eventually became a ghost town. a distant ship in the shape of the MarThe Ghosts of Barnums Gulley quette & Bessemer No 2 just blinks out Robert Weare of existence. My grandfather, an “Ojibwa” native, Now these of course could just be vitold me of a Halloween evening tragedy sual tricks or hallucinations, but James in 1769 that took place near Barnum’s Donahue in his article “Ghost Ship MarGully. The gully is located between Port quette & Bessemer No. 2”, relates that Stanley and Port Bruce one mile south “Adding to the mystery is that the wreck of Sparta and just south of Dexter Line. has reportedly been seen from the air on clear days. It has been sighted about Two elders and two young braves, in eight miles northeast of Conneaut, in a birch bark canoe, were on a return trip about 10 fathoms (60 feet) of water. Yet down Lake Erie from a visit to the petrono one has located it by boat”. Old dock at Tyrconnell glyphs on Curve Lake near Peterborough. The evening was clear and cold, To this day divers of the Great Lakes the stars were twinkling and the moon yearn to find the mystery wreck of the The Ghost ship the Marquette was full, over a very calm Lake. SudMarquette & Bessemer No 2. It has denly an unexpected rogue wave of nine & Bessemer No 2 often been hailed as “The Mount Everfeet capsized their canoe. of Great Lake shipwrecks”. est Since it sank below the icy waves of The shrill, yelling, hooting and holLake Erie on that dark December night But perhaps all these divers and relering was eerie, with all four of the in 1909 the Marquette & Bessemer No 2 searchers have to do to find the old ship canoe’s occupants drowning a horrible has been seen and heard on multiple is to sail out in a lonely dark night and death. They did not wear life preservers occasions. wait to hear the mournful wail of the in those times. whistle to echo across the Lake’s surMany times since its untimely deface. And if they hear it, perhaps they Believe it or not, if you venture down mise sailors have heard the ghostly Barnum’s Gully to this day, always on moaning whistle of the ship when they can track it down to find old No 2? Or Halloween eve, you can hear their are the only vessel for miles around. An their own chilling fate? screams, and find remnants of their old fashioned whistle that seems to The Ghosts of Sparta House birch bark canoe on the shoreline the struggle in a mournful wail that beNorma Roberts didn’t believe in next day. moans its fate. Much as the same sound the Captains wife had reportedly heard ghosts – at least not until she and her The Ghost Town of Tyrconnell that December night as the ship gave in husband, Ken Roberts, moved into the Sparta House Tea Room & Restaurant. to her struggle with the pounding Tyrconnell is a Ghost Town on the The couple migrated from Liverpool, waves. north shore of Lake Erie. Having had a England to the sleepy village of Sparta good natural harbour, Tyrconnell was a It also seems to be a common occur- in 1996, taking ownership of the Sparta busy port in pioneer days. The first setHouse – a landmark building that had, since its construction in 1836, undergone a series of transformations from hotel to a funeral home to a general store. tlers arrived around 1809. The first grist Stories For Halloween mill was built on the creek around 1817.
HealthTalk
No Infection Control Will Take Its Toll
The week of October 19-25, 2014 is dedicated as International Infection Prevention Week (IIPW). IIPW, which takes place the third week of October each year, raises awareness of the role infection prevention plays to improve patient safety. This year’s theme is on antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in some way that reduces the effectiveness of the antibiotics that we use to treat common infections. The bacteria survive and continue to multiply producing offspring that are also resistant to antibiotics. So what causes resistance? Every time a person takes antibiotics, the sensitive (or weaker) bacteria are killed, but the stronger, more resistant bugs may be left to grow and multiply. Repeated and improper use of antibiotics is one of primary causes of the increase in drug-resistant bacteria. While antibiotics should be used to treat bacterial infections, they are not effective against viral infections like the common cold or the flu. Using antibiotics when they are not needed, increases the chances that they won’t work when they are needed. As patients, we need to be concerned about resistance as increased resistance means that newer, more expensive antibiotics may be
Steve Bond,
BScPhm, RPh, CDE Pharmacist/Manager
required to treat infections. In some cases, bacteria can become resistant to multiple antibiotics so that only a few or perhaps only one antibiotic is effective. If that one fails, we have no other options. These ‘super bugs’ are a growing concern in the community. What steps can we take to prevent antibiotic resistance? Do not take an antibiotic for a viral infection like a cold or the flu. If prescribed antibiotics for a bacterial infection complete the full course-don’t keep some around ‘just in case’. Also, take the dose as prescribed- don’t skip doses. Never take antibiotics prescribed for someone else. Taking the wrong medicine may delay correct treatment and allow bacteria to multiply. If your doctor determines that you do not have a bacterial infection, ask about ways to help relieve your symptoms. Do not pressure them to prescribe an antibiotic. In many cases, colds will resolve in 7 days with an antibiotic and in a week without. (Yes, 7 days is the same as a week. To reduce the chance of infection, talk to us about the flu shots. Our pharmacy will be holding convenient clinics and taking walk in appointments as well.
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
Initially, the Roberts were able to look past the oddities that occurred as early as the day they moved into their
Sparta House Tea Room & Restaurant new home, which is located on Sparta’s Main Street. Inexplicable occurrences included a radio flying from a night table; the constant crashing of glasses from the kitchen table and framed photographs falling from their moorings on a wall; and the sound of revellers in abandoned rooms late at night. Almost twenty years and dozens of sightings later, Norma’s opinions have changed. Norma and Ken encourage skeptics and believers to judge for themselves. In the heart of the towering building, a stretch of corridor no more than 10 feet long connects the main lounge to a smaller dining nook. The hall adjacent to a doorway separating the staircase and the Roberts’ loft above from the commotion of the business below. This particular stretch, fully enclosed, dark and somewhat eerie, is the location of the majority of ghost sightings. To date, there have been multiple reports of at least two spirits haunting the hall. The first is a woman in a bonnet and blue dress seen by Norma’s father, Tom Gillman, on his first visit to his daughter’s new establishment. The second has been described as a “scruffily dressed” man who, by many accounts, was a caretaker of sorts in his lifetime.
Port Burwell’s spooky decorations In Port Burwell Allan Spicer reports that Addison Street, which runs along the Port Burwell Provincial Park boundary to the Ball Park, is ready for Halloween. The quiet street is somewhat off the beaten track in Port Burwell but there are several nice homes and quaint cottages, a mix of permanent residents and part time residents. Several property owners have gone all out this year for Halloween.
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday October 31, 2014 • Page 5 It still appeared that some of the Councillors might be willing to consider the request to save at least one grain silo although there were many questions. Council directed municipal staff to investigate the proposal further and come back with a report.
Andrew Hibbert The Silos (grain elevators) are located on the west side of the harbour and have been a familiar sight in Port Stanley for many, many years. That will not be true for much longer as Central Elgin council is currently drafting a tender for the demolition of the six silo towers. The tender to carry out the demolition work was supposed to be put forward by the middle of November.
Some of the questions and reservations that were voiced by Council. • As a public facility the remaining tower would need two means of access.
Many people consider the towers to be part of Port Stanley’s Great Lakes heritage. The Save a Silo committee sees a possible saved silo as a potential landmark and tourist attraction for Port Stanley as well as an observation tower and gathering place. At the Central Elgin council meeting on Tuesday October 14th a group of concerned residents, including John Morrow, speaking for Heritage Port, David Harding, Chair of Heritage Port, member Ron Koudys and Ted Halwa a property owner of Port Stanley and a Municipal Planner, presented a proposal to council suggesting that one of the silos should be saved as a landmark in the community. John Morrow and Ted Halwa made the presentation. Mr. Halwa suggested to council, “that one of the towers could be made
• Rubble from the remaining tower may be required for the containment bed to finish the new park. • The cost to save one tower might be too expensive - some estimated as much as $500,000 to pull off.
Save a silo campaign! quite attractive and it would be an asset to the village and to the municipality”. He also presented an illustration showing how the tower could be decorated. In other communities silo towers have been saved and used as retail spaces, observation towers, museums and even residential units. Central Elgin Director of Physical Service Lloyd Perrin suggested that a
complete refurbishing could push the cost to about $400,000 to make the structure accessible. It was also noted that a detailed engineer’s report with budget estimates would probably be in the magnitude of $7,500. He noted that the municipality would have to look at changing the land use from an industrial, to make it one for public occupancy. There may be a need to have a risk assessment done, he added.
• The time is too short – the demolition tender is about to be put out. • The municipality has not budgeted funds to determine the feasibility or other costs. • If a tower is saved it would need to be enclosed to protect users from the elements. • Mayor Bill Walters said that if an elevator was installed there would need to be stairs for accessibility and a barrier around the top.
Page 6 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday October 31, 2014
North Shore Community Events F E S T I V A L S
PORT STANLEY 2014
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. MENS BOOK OF THE MONTH Starting this fall, sign up to read our selected book each month! CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS Kidz Korner Mondays from 66:45pm, Ages 6-12 — please pre-register! Pajama Rama Monday evenings from 7-7:30pm, Stories and songs for all ages & their caregiver. No registration required, please drop in! Preschool Story Time Tuesday Mornings from 10:15-11am Songs, stories & crafts for children ages 0-5 with a caregiver. Girls Club Girls in grades 4-6: Sign up now for our fall session! Every other week on a Thursday 4:30-5:30pm. Lego Boys Boys in grades 3-8: Sign up now for our fall session! Thursday Evenings 6-7pm. Adult Programs Itty-Bitty-Knitty-Committee Adults bring your knitted or crochet project for an informal meeting. Share projects & patterns, learn from others & pick up new tricks! All levels are welcome 78pm. Nov 6 & 20, Dec 4. The Optimist Club of Port Stanley will have the Christmas Angel Tree. The tree will be set up in the Library on Wednesday Nov 19 and the celebration will be Saturday Dec 13 at 10AM. Make cheque out to Optimist Club of Port Stanley for Angels you want, which is $10 each. Call Angela Howie for more info 519-782-3272. Angels are for deceased family member or friend. The Port Stanley Lions Club is having a free Diabetes Screening Clinic at the Port Stanley United Church, Saturday, November 15th – from 10 to 2. We are also holding a Diabetes Tag Day throughout the village. “PLEASE HELP FIND A CURE”. Port Stanley Community Christmas Bazaar Port Stanley Arena Saturday, Nov. 15 9am - 1pm. Lunch Room available Free admission. Christmas gifts, Baked Goods, Hand-crafted items. Sponsored by Community Non-Profit Groups. Port Stanley "Dickens Days' Parade Friday, Nov. 28, Parade starts at 7pm from Kettle Creek Villa, Parade ends Mackies. Come and meet Santa and bring him your letters. Canned goods collected by Port Stanley Sailors Hockey Team. The Parade is sponsored by the Port Stanley Lions and Lioness Clubs. For more info call 519-782-4308. Christ Anglican Church Sunday Morning Service, 9:30 am with Eucharist. We invite all to join in worship with us. Coffee follows downstairs. 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. 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. St. John's Presbyterian Church Annual Turkey Dinner on November 7. Two sittings 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Eat in or take out. Adults $12. 519-782-3971 for tickets. Port Stanley Youth Group & St. John's Presbyterian Church Nov 14, Preparation for Dicken’s Day Parade. Port Stanley United Church Service of Worship at 11 am followed by a time of fellowship. Come join us. We are now wheelchair friendly and barrier free. 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 Summer Hours: Mon. & Thurs., 12-7, Tues. & Fri., 12-10, Wed. 11-10. 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! Call 519 7823189 or 782-3118. Port Stanley Legion Port Stanley Karaoke Sing It To Win It! Every 3rd Friday of the month, 7pm - 11pm Chicken Wings on Special. Come for the fun.
PORT BURWELL/VIENNA 2014
St. Paul’s Port Burwell /Vienna Sunday Services St. Paul's P.B./Vienna United 11:00 am Port Burwell Trinity Anglican 11:30 am Port Burwell Lighthouse Gospel Church 10:45 am Port Burwell - Bayham Horticultural Society, Meets Every 3rd Monday, 7 pm at the Port Burwell School, Strachan Street. For more Info 519 874-4260. Otter Valley Naturalists Monthly Meeting is the second Monday of the month, 7 pm to 9 pm. Please call 519-874-4028 for information. 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. 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. Port Burwell Historical Society meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month, 7 pm at the Marine Museum. Call 519 874-4135. Museum Bayham meet the 2nd Wednesday of the month 7pm, Municipal Office in Strafforville. 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.
The Lake Erie Beacon 204 A Carlow Road Port Stanley, Ontario N5L 1C5 Phone: (519) 782-4563
&
E V E N T S
AYLMER 2014
Aylmer 50 + Seniors Welcome you to join them for Euchre or Bridge Every Monday 1 - 3:30 pm upstairs at Aylmer Legion Admission $2.
DEXTER 2014
Dexter United Church Dexter Line. Service of Worship at 9:15 am followed by a time of fellowship.
DUTTON 2014
Dutton & District LIONS Charity BINGO, Wed., Nov. 5, 7 pm, in Dutton Dunwich Community Centre, featuring $500 Jackpot and several other special games. Dutton & District LIONS famous full breakfast; Sunday, Nov. 9, 9 AM till 1 PM, in the LIONS DEN (behind Dutton Dunwich Community Centre): Adults $6 Poinsettia Bazaar Dunwich United Church, 179 Nancy St., Nov 15, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Baking, "good-as-new" table, crafts, preserves, soup mixes for sale. Noon luncheon available.
FINGAL 2014
Knox Presbyterian Church Lay Minister Mr. John Van Eyk. 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.
SHEDDEN 2014
Shedden Library Hours: Tues. 2:30-8:30, Thurs. 2-5, Fri. 10 - 5, Sat. 2 - 5 764-2081. Children’s Programs Preschool Story Time Friday mornings from 11-11:45am Songs, stories and crafts for children ages 0-5 with a caregiver. Adult Programs Itty-Bitty-Knitty-Committee Join us for an informal meeting Tuesday, November 18th, 7pm. Learn from other and pick up new tricks & patterns. All ages and levels are welcome! Please pre-register. The Optimist Clubs of Fingal-Shedden and Talbotville present a Murder Mystery fundraiser for the new Southwold Library on Saturday, November 15. Begins 6pm, dinner 7pm at the Keystone Complex, Shedden. Come dressed as your favourite author or well-known character. Bring a trivia question and qualify for a prize. Tickets $40 each. Call Ray or Barb at 519-769-2013 for more info.
PLAINS 2014
The Plains Candy Cane Bazaar (corner of Fairview & Sparta Line) Saturday, Nov. 08, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Refreshments served in Oak Hall. Craft Table; Bake Table; Books; Attic Treasurers, etc.
SPARTA 2014
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).
ST. THOMAS 2014
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 Knox Presbyterian Church Tartan Bazaar Hincks Street, Nov 8th 8:30 -12:30. Coffee break 8:30-10:30 am; lunch 10:30-12:30. Homemade baking, preserves, Christmas pudding, mincemeat, books, jewellery, knitting, sewing, crafts, Christmas revisited and floral boutique. Gospel & Elvis Favourites Concert Friday, Nov 7th - 7:00 pm. Roy LeBlanc & Central United Junior Choir Central United Church, Refreshments Available tickets $20. at OK Tire, 18 Elgin St., Wind N'Willow,435 Talbot St. Church Office Tues - Friday 8am - Noon 519-631-3503 Central United Church Bazaar Sat, Nov 1 - 8:30-12:30 pm Gift Baskets, Bake Table, Stocking Stuffers, Christmas Arrangements, Harvest Deli, Coffee Corner Soup & Sandwich Lunch 11am Wheelchair Accessible Credit-Debit Machine Available
TYRCONNELL 2014
Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Line, 519-762-3072.
UNION 2014
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 Holly Berry Market Nov 8th, 9-12 noon, Union United Church, Crafts, bake table, preserves and vendors/artisans. Christmas Bazaar Union Community Centre. Nov 1st, 912 noon. Many craft vendors, Loonie table, Bake table and Light lunch. Yuletide Bazaar Caressant Care, 15 Bonnie Place. Nov 8th , 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Many craft vendors, Loonie table, Bake table, Tea Room and Raffle. Holly Fair First United Church, Nov 15th, 9 a.m. - 12 noon. Coffee Shop, Holiday Entertainment, The Pantry, Just Gifts'n Things, Bake Shop, Adult and Children's book rooms, Attic Treasures, Blind Auction and Draw Table.
VIENNA 2014
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. See The Lake Erie Beacon on facebook and issuu.com
The Lake Erie Beacon is pleased to support your local community events. We will make every effort to post promptly and accurately. If you would like to have your event posted on this page please contact us at:
519 782-4563 or linda@lebeacon.ca
Local Municipal Election Results Continued from page 1 into the vote tabulating machine your choices were instantly recorded and added to the final result. On voting day, Polls were open for the electors to vote from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Because of the electronic vote counting all poll results were available shortly after the 8:00 pm closing of the polls.
DEPUTY MAYOR: Mike Wolfe
The Final Results
WARD 3: Rick Cerna
BAYHAM
WARD 4: Mark Wales
MAYOR: Paul Ens
WARD 5: Ghester Glinski
DEPUTY MAYOR: Tom Southwick WARD 1: Randy Breyer
CENTRAL ELGIN
WARD 2: Wayne Casier
MAYOR: David Marr
WARD 3: Ed Ketchabaw
DEPUTY MAYOR: Sally Martyn
MALAHIDE MAYOR: Dave Mennill
WARD 1: Mark Widner WARD 2: Max Moore
WARD 1: Dan McNeil WARD 2: Dennis Crevits
The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday October 31, 2014 • Page 7
WARD 3: Stephen Carr WARD 4: Harold Winkworth WARD 5: Fiona Roberts
DUTTON DUNWICH
SCHOOL BOARD Trustee
MAYOR: Cameron McWilliam
English Public Chris Goodall, James Todd
DEPUTY MAYOR: Robert “Bob” Purcell Ward 1: John (Ian) Fleck
English Separate Bill Hall
The new Mayor of Central Elgin David Marr with his home team: Wife Sandy and Son Rob who was Dave’s campaign manager.
SOUTHWOLD
branches are also accepted provided they are tied in bundles not more than 3 feet in length. There is no limit to the number of paper bags that can be sent at a time, but the tops of the bags should be rolled shut to avoid rain getting in the bags. In the past this has been a success. In 2013, 7.4 tonnes of leaf and yard waste was diverted from landfill. Let’s keep the trend going this year!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 6th at 7:00 p.m. This is the date for the annual tree lighting and Santa visit in Port Bruce. Plans are underway for Santa’s arrival in the park at the north end of the pavilion for the tree lighting. Stay tuned for further details!
Pierre Lambert French Separate
WEST ELGIN
Continued From Page 3
Santa is Coming to Town
French Public Ward 2: Michael Hentz Daniel McKillop
Port Bruce Report
George Le Mac
MAYOR: Bernie Wiehle DEPUTY MAYOR: Mary Bodnar Ward 1: Joe Seman Jr.
MAYOR: Grant Jones
Ward 2: Jonathan Wolf
DEPUTY MAYOR: Ian R. Chard
Ward 3: Richard Leatham
Councillor: Gayle Bogart Robert Monteith Peter North
North Shore Community Classified Serving over 7000 Homes, Apartments, Farms & Businesses
Keystone Complex SHEDDEN
Remembrance Service
CLASSIFIEDS or FLYERS
Did you know we can insert your flyers? Call Linda at 519 782-4563!!!
Sunday, November 9 at 9:30 a.m. Speaker: Steve Peters Topic: War 1812-1814 Attack on The Talbot Settlement November 11, 1814
Classified Ads are an inexpensive way to get things noticed. Our classifieds are $1.55 per line, based on 25 characters or spaces per line.
Laying of wreaths at 11:00 a.m. Displays and refreshements.
Call Linda at: The Lake Erie Beacon Office 204-A Carlow Road, Port Stanley, On for details
COTTAGE FOR RENT Port Stanley The Beach House – 2 bedroom lakefront fully renovated. Artist Cottage – 1 bedroom. Available: 1 September 2014 – 31 May 2015. No smoking, no pets. See www.westharbouronthebeach.ca
or for further details call 519-434-2229.
519 782-4563
Port Stanley Public School Activities November 2014 November 3 Field Trips (School) JK-Gr. 3 Sharon & Bram Trip November 5 Hot Lunch Day (School) PIzza Day November 12 Building Event Book Fair (Nov 12-Nov 14) November 14 Report Cards go home November 15 Building Event Holiday Extravaganza Shopping Event 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
North Shore SERVICE DIRECTORY For Businesses Located Near You!
Allergy season is here Stock up on atoma Pharmacist Approved allergy fighting products. Weekdays 9 am-6 pm Sat. 9 am - 3 pm Sun.- Closed FREE Local Delivery
20% Off Wednesdays for Seniors 222 Colborne Street Port Stanley 519 782-3324
Page 8 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday October 31, 2014
OPP Halloween Safety Tips PC Troy Carlson Elgin County OPP Media Relations
Most parents with younger children are well aware that Halloween is almost upon us. Others will be quickly reminded as the little ghosts, goblins and super heroes start appearing on the streets and at their doors. In any case, whether out with your child, at home, or on the road driving. Elgin County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to pass along some safety tips to help keep everyone safe this Halloween.
Tips For Children See and be seen! Wear bright clothing, wear reflective tape and take a flashlight or glow sticks to help light you up and light your way. Walk, don’t run! Plan your route in neighbourhoods you know and don’t approach homes that are in darkness.
Use sidewalks; don’t cut across yards or driveways and walk, single file, facing traffic at the edge of the roadway when sidewalks aren’t available. Don’t eat on the go! Wait until you get home and have a look at your treats with your parents before you start to eat them.
Tips For Parents Feed your children their favourite meal that night and give them seconds! Stuffed children won’t be as tempted to dig into their treats and eat them before they get home. Although tampering is rare, an inspection with your assistance is wise. Do you know where your children are? Insist older children provide a route and timeline with an agreed upon finish time. A cell phone is an added bonus. If you go along they’ll probably
share some candy with you! Very young children should always be accompanied by an adult. Aunts, uncles, grandparents or trustworthy friends can step in if you can’t make it.
Tips For Homeowners Trust me; your dog won’t like trick or treaters! Even normally friendly dogs can get a little testy with unidentified goblins taking things away from their house. Best to keep them away from the door or other paths the children might use. Turn the lights on! Although lights seem to ruin the ambiance on such a ghoulish night, a little light can go a long way to keep children from tumbling off the front porch or having other potentially dangerous mishaps on your property. Tidy up just a little! Car ramps, flower pots, hoses, wheel rims, lawn
T H E L AKE ER I E BEAC ON
mowers and the like represent a hazard to children as they move from home to home. Take a few minutes to remove potential hazards. If you use real candles, keep them clear of the trick or treaters! If you insist on using candles instead of bulbs don’t forget the fire hazard and especially remember to keep them distant from the children.
Tips For Drivers Slow down and watch for children! Drive like you are going through a community safety zone in front of a school. A child could dart out at any time. If you drink don’t drive! Let’s keep everyone safe out there. If you are drinking then just stay home. Elgin County O.P.P. will be running RIDE checks to apprehend those who don’t get the message.
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Port Burwell Periscope Playhouse presents …
“The Cemetery Club” by Ivan Menchell
Preview night/gala 8:00 pm October 16 Suggested donation members $10, non-members $15. 8:00 pm Oct. 17, 18, 24, 25; 2:00 pm Oct. 19 and 26
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