The Lake Erie Beacon Feb 20 2015 by Linda Hibbert

Serving Lake Erie’s North Shore Friday February 20, 2015

INSIDE Books 2 GO Elgin County Public Library is partnering with the West Elgin Community Health Centre (WECHC) Support Services to offer a mobile Library service. STORY PAGE 2

Grain Processor IGPC to Benefit from New Technology

Legislation to Protect the Great Lakes Ontario is protecting the Great Lakes with proposed legislation that recognizes the importance of the environment, economy and health of Ontarians. STORY PAGE 2

New cruise ship to sail the Great Lakes A luxury cruise ship named the Saint Laurent will embark this July from Montreal to Chicago, STORY PAGE 3

Above: The Integrated Grain Processors Cooperative (IGPC) on Progress Drive, Aylmer.

Andrew Hibbert

Port Bruce Report Again this year ice has formed along the shoreline. STORY PAGE 3

Sparta Report The Sparta & District Historical Society are hosting a fun evening for everyone. Joins us at the Forge (46316 Sparta Line) at 6:30 on Saturday, March 7. STORY PAGE 4

Keep Your 911 Address Signs Visible If your 911 sign has been damaged or is missing please contact your local Municipality or Township office to have it replaced. STORY PAGE 6

LOOK AHEAD Community Events

Page 6

Classifieds & Service Directory Page 7 Business Roladex

Page 4 & 8

Your ad in the Lake Erie Beacon will reach 6800 Homes, Apartments Farms & Businesses From Port Burwell to Port Stanley and Port Glasgow. We also Email over 700 PDF’s of the Beacon & are on Facebook & issuu.com Call Linda at 519.782.4563

If you like to drive the back roads of South Western Ontario you will see field after field of corn being grown in the summertime. You might wonder what all that corn is used for. Obviously some of the corn is for human consumption, who doesn’t love corn on the cob? Some of the corn is also used as animal feed. Livestock producers often use corn and soy as a base for their animal feed because these protein-rich grains help bring animals to market weight faster, and because they are cheaper than other feed options as a result of government subsidies. Ethanol fuel Another use for the corn is to produce ethanol. If you look up ethanol on the web you might find the following: Ethanol fuel is ethyl alcohol, the same type of alcohol found in alco-

Left: Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz was in Aylmer to announce an investment loan of $3.7 million by the Government of Canada

holic beverages. It is also used as a motor fuel, mainly as a biofuel additive for gasoline. World ethanol production for transport fuel tripled between 2000 and 2007 from 17 billion to more than 52 billion liters. From 2007 to 2008, the share of ethanol in global gasoline type fuel use increased from 3.7% to 5.4%. In 2011 worldwide ethanol fuel production reached 22.36 billion U.S. gallons (84.6 billion liters),

Ethanol fuel is widely used in Brazil, and the United States, and together both countries were responsible for 87.1% of the world's ethanol fuel production in 2011. Most cars on the road today can run on blends of up to 10% ethanol and ethanol represented 10% of the North American gasoline fuel supply derived from domestic sources in 2011. Most fuels that we use contain at least 5% ethanol although it does not say so on the pump. In some locations blender pumps allows a customer to choose between E20, E30, E85, or any other preselected blend. Continued On Page 5

The pier was where we swam and fished An early image of the pier at Port Stanley.

Jim Taylor Saw a couple strolling on the pier today. A strange sight in these times. Yet it was not so long ago that a stroll on the pier was the highlight of a summer visit to the village of Port Stanley. A place of free fun and entertainment for citybound tourists. But for many of us who lived in the village the pier was much more than that. It was where we swam and fished and, well, took in the wonders of the waters of Lake Erie. It was a time when the picnic hill played host to mammoth picnics that dotted the summer calendar. And freighters delivered goods from around

the world .... olives, wine, marble, cars ... And there was the pier. There were no barriers back then. No fences. No warning signs. Everyone, locals and tourists, were free to walk it to their heart's content. When their parents weren’t around Port Stanley kids would climb up on the roof of the

lighthouse, take a run and leap over the concrete deck into the warm water below. Well, those with the nerve did. And there was no bigger thrill than running out on the pier on a stormy day dodging between the monster waves that would wash over the concrete looking for careless thrill seekers. It was a right of passage for many of us. And there are other stories. Like one my father told me about two boys daring the waves one day and one didn't make it. His companion picked up his clothes and went to his friend's nearby Continued On Page 4

Page 2 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday February 20, 2015

Books 2 GO -

LETTERS Pickleball in St Thomas

OPP arrest in Port Stanley

This is in reply to Susan Metzger’s letter in the February 6/15 Beacon about pickleball in Port Stanley. I agree with Susan that pickleball is an extremely fun way to get exercise and stay fit and sure it would be wonderful if Port Stanley had Pickleball here, I would love it too. The good news is that it's only 10 minutes away and I know of at least 20 people from Port Stanley who are taking advantage of this already. Almost 2 years ago drop in pickleball was started at the Timken Centre in St Thomas by Dave and Helen Hall who had recently moved here from Manitoulin Island where they had started it up there too. In the beginning there were only 4 people playing the sport once a week at the Timken Centre but through word of mouth and Dave and Helen’s hard work, perseverance and patience teaching people how to play such a fun sport, we now have about 150 people involved playing at different levels 7 times a week. 75 of those people belong to the St Thomas Pickleball Club. Anyone interested in learning how to play pickleball can certainly go to our website at www.stthomaspickleball.ca and contact us. We would be glad to tell you how to get involved and about upcoming lessons available to you. Jan Nicholson, Port Stanley, Secretary/Treasurer of the St Thomas Pickleball Club

A week ago the OPP made an arrest in Port Stanley for “obstruction of traffic”. Moses was placed under arrest, put into the cruiser and taken to the Animal Impound. Yes, Moses is a dog, and yes the OPP took him into custody. Pretty sure he didn’t resist arrest but have no idea whether he was read his “rights” or “paw” printed. When I first heard of this, I was thinking I’d missed several months, for surely this was one great “April Fools” joke. We’ve all seen Moses on the grass or the sidewalk or even occasionally the street in front of his home. Walkers, joggers, children, kids in strollers and dogs alike stop to exchange pleasantries. In all seriousness, as a dog owner I’m aware of the legalities of being one and ensure (as best I can) no harm comes to my beloved pets BUT in the spirit of this community, maybe this could have been handled differently with less cause of stress to Moses and his owner (and best friend) Cam. Vicki Wood, Port Stanley PS. This weekend Moses passed away. We are all sorry that his last few days caused him and his owner so much stress.

Ontario to Introduce Legislation to Protect the Great Lakes “When you ask people about Ontario’s greatest assets, inevitably Ontario’s lakes, beaches and parks are mentioned. As we strive to grow the tourism industry in Ontario, a safe and clean Great Lakes is an important asset to attract international visitors to discover Ontario. The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario is pleased to participate in the discussion about protecting the Great Lakes for Ontarians and the millions of visitors we welcome annually, now and in the future."— Beth Potter, President and

CEO, Tourism Industry Association of Ontario

Keeping the Great Lakes Drinkable, Swimmable and Fishable Ontario is protecting the Great Lakes with proposed legislation that recognizes the importance of the environment, economy and health of Ontarians.

The Great Lakes Protection Act

Continued On Page 5

A Mobile Library Service for Residents of Western Elgin Elgin County

CD, and Magazines.

Elgin County Public Library is partnering with the West Elgin Community Health Centre (WECHC) Support Services to offer a mobile Library service, “Books 2 GO”, to individuals that are currently part of the WECHC “Friendly Visitor Program”. Over 130 persons with mobility and transportation challenges currently receive weekly visits from the WECHC program volunteers. These home visits promote healthy communities and help to alleviate loneliness, especially in the winter months. As of March, volunteers will also be able to provide library services to their clients.

“We are thrilled to be offering the “Books 2 GO” program,” said Sandra Poczobut, Elgin County Manager of Programming and Community Development. “Partnering with WECHC has provided us with a unique opportunity to offer a service that directly meets the needs of the communities we serve. We are looking forward to extending our service to those who would benefit greatly from our collection and resources. We hope in the future to find a similar collaboration in the eastern end of the County.”

Elgin County Library staff at the Rodney, West Lorne, and John Kenneth Galbraith Reference Library – Dutton branches will be working with participants and volunteers to create bags of materials to suit the interests and needs of each participant, in addition to giving them the option of ordering specific materials from the online catalogue. Participants will not only have access to books; but, all Elgin County Library collection items including DVDs, CDs, Playaway Packs, Books on

Grants Available For Local Festivals and Events Elgin County

Published by Kettle Creek Publishing Ltd. 204 A Carlow Road Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C5 Telephone: 519.782.4563

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

Letters to the Editor andrew@lebeacon.ca

Elgin County recognizes that local festivals and events help to shape vibrant communities and contribute to an area’s overall quality of place. Elgin is pleased to present the Festival and Event Partnership Program (FEPP) again in 2015 for local groups that take it upon themselves to develop festivals and events that will meet the County’s tourism goals:

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 6800.

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

The Advertising Deadline is: Friday Noon Prior to Publication. Member: Member: Member: Member: Member:

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

Increase the amount of people that visit Elgin; Increase the length of stay of visitors; and, Increase the amount of money that visitor’s spend.

In 2015, the FEPP will provide up to $4,000 of funding to support several qualifying festivals and events in Elgin County. The FEPP funding will not be limited to a predetermined number of festivals or events or amount per festival or event. A copy of the FEPP application can be downloaded by visiting: www.elgintourist.com/fepp. Applications must be submitted by Tuesday April 7, 2015 to qualify.

The Elgin County Library has many rich online resources. With an Elgin County Library card patrons can stream movies using IndieFlix, learn a new language with Mango Languages, access e-books using Overdrive, and search through numerous databases. Participants of the “Books 2 GO” program with an Internet connection at home will also have an opportunity to learn how to access these services. To find out more please visit www.elgincounty.ca/library

2015 Festival and Event Partnership Program The County of Elgin is please to present the FEPP for 2015. The program consists of a total of $4,000 in contributions for qualifying festivals and events. For more information please visit www.elgintourist.com/ FEPP or call 519-631-1460 x 164

Application deadline: Tuesday, April 7th, 2015

The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday February 20, 2015 • Page 3

PORT BRUCE REPORT Cathy Crane

Unsafe Ice Conditions Again this year ice has formed along the shoreline. While the piles of ice that have accumulated close to shore look beautiful in the sunshine, everyone is reminded that the ice is very dangerous. There are holes and very unsafe areas. While you may be willing to take the risk, remember, if you encounter problems you could endanger others who try to rescue you. For everyone’s safety, enjoy the view from shore!

Port Bruce Ratepayers

New cruise ship to sail the Great Lakes this summer Samantha Edwards / Cottage Life A luxury cruise ship named the Saint Laurent will embark this July from Montreal to Chicago, hitting up several cottage country destinations along the way. Visiting all five of the Great Lakes, the Saint Laurent cruise is an ideal trip for limnology experts, locks enthusiasts, and lovers of Canadian history. Specially designed to sail the Great Lakes, the Saint Laurent’s smaller size means it can travel to smaller ports than many other luxury cruise ships. For its maiden voyage, the ship will embark from Montreal and sail via the St. Lawrence Seaway and Lake Ontario through to the historical Welland Canal, which was first built in 1824.

After a viewing of Niagara Falls, the ship will then travel through Lake Erie to Lake Huron, with a stop in Windsor and Detroit. The ship then sails through Lake Huron up to Manitoulin Island.

With four levels and 105 rooms, the Saint Laurent features multiple decks for sunbathing, elevator service, a spacious dining room and lounge, plus a full-service boutique and salon.

After experiencing the rich history of Manitoulin, the ship travels to Sault Saint Marie and then to the Victorianera Mackinac Island, located between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. The island has a no-car policy—meaning all transportation is by horse and bicycle—and is rife with charming historical buildings. After cruising across Lake Michigan, the ship disembarks in Chicago.

decks for sunbathing, elevator service, a spacious dining room and lounge, plus a full-service boutique and salon. Onboard, the cruise offers afternoon tea, cocktail hour, live entertainment, cooking classes, and seated breakfast, lunch, and multicourse dinners.

Boasting four levels and 105 rooms, the Saint Laurent features multiple

Longwoods March Dedicated to Four-year-old Everleigh Pierce Upper Thames Military Re-enactment Society The Bicentennial of the War of 18121814 will soon be over with the 200th anniversary of the ratification of the Treaty of Ghent, which brought an end to the war by late February of 1815. This year, Saturday February 28 and Sunday March 1, 2015 special programs will be conducted by the Upper Thames Military Re-enactment Society, which portrays the Light Company of the Royal Scots, and the Glencoe and District Historical Society to commemorate the 201st anniversary of the Battle of Longwoods in different and unique ways. The Battle of Longwoods represents the only major conflict fought in Middlesex County during the War of 181214. It was fought at Battle Hill, in Mosa Township on March 4, 1814 between the British Light Companies of the Royals Scots, the 89th Regiment, assisted with Caldwell’s Western Rangers, the British Indian Department, the Kent Loyal Volunteers and First Nations warriors against entrenched soldiers of the United States from Kentucky and Ohio. The battle ended with an American vicContinued On Page 7

For more information, or to book your stay on the ship, go to www.greatlakescruising.com/saintlaurent.

You may have recently seen a few people sporting bright green toques with the Ratepayers new logo. There are toques, hats and golf shirts available for sale with the new logo. Previous supplies of t-shirts are still available at discounted prices! For more information contact either Cathy at (519) 773-3323 or Linda at (519) 7732664.

A bit of History As noted on the Elgin Tourism website, one of the historical attractions in Eastern Elgin County is located in Wonnacott Park (north of the pavilion) in Port Bruce. There, a plaque identifies that the history of Port Bruce dates back to 1761 with the arrival of Sir William Johnson, who was the “Superintendent of Indian Affairs”. Other historical sources identify that Sir Johnson was travelling from Johnstown, New York to Detroit in August, 1761. Reportedly it was on the Port Bruce beach that on August 25, 1761 a passing boat brought news to Continued On Page 7

HealthTalk Wear Hats & MittensDon’t get Frostbitten What do you get when you cross Frosty the Snowman with Dracula? A bad case of frostbite. Cold temperatures are nothing new to residents of Elgin County. All too often we hear dreaded phrases such as extreme cold warning, wind chill or my personal favourite- polar vortex. While many heed these warnings and bundle against the elements, some still are willing to chance hypothermia and frostbite Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 35°C. (Normal temperature is 37.5°C) It is usually more prevalent in the very young and the very old. Symptoms of hypothermia include: Shivering, dizziness hunger, nausea, faster breathing, trouble speaking, confusion, lack of coordination, fatigue and increased heart rate. As the temperature continues to drop, the pulse will weaken, breathing becomes more shallow and the person may become unconscious. Treatment for hypothermia depends on the severity. Mild hypothermia is treated by removing the person from the cold and warming slowly (start with the trunk- not the extremities). For severe hypothermia, a call to 911 is warranted. Frostbite is a condition whereby the skin (usually in the extremities) freezes. Frostbite happens when the body's survival mechanisms kick in during extremely cold weather. To protect the vital inner or-

Steve Bond, BScPhm, RPh, CDE Pharmacist/Manager

gans, the body cuts circulation to your extremities: feet, hands, nose, etc., which eventually freeze. Frostbite occurs in several stages: The first stage of frostbite is frostnip where the skin pales or turns red and feels cold. This can progress to prickling and numbness in the affected area. Frostnip doesn't permanently damage the skin. The second stage of frostbite appears as reddened skin that turns white or pale and is called superficial frostbite. The skin may remain soft, but some ice crystals may form in the tissue. The skin may begin to feel warm. A fluidfilled blister may appear 24 to 36 hours after rewarming the skin. As frostbite progresses, it affects all layers of the skin, including the tissues that lie below (a condition known as severe or deep frostbite) This is accompanied by numbness, loss of all sensation of cold, pain or discomfort in the affected area. Large blisters form 24 to 48 hours after rewarming. Afterward, the area turns black and hard as the tissue dies. So unless your name is Olaf or Princess Elsa of Arendelle (if you don’t get the reference ask any girl ages 2-12), protect yourself from the cold and if you suspect hypothermia or frostbite, seek help.

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 February 20, 2015

SPARTA REPORT Sally Martyn

to 12 noon at the Sparta Community Hall. We will be registering children from age 5 up to the end of Grade 6. If you are unable to come that day please call Sally Martyn 519-775-2292 to register.

Sparta Community Hall Furnaces Pizza now available in Sparta The Sparta Village Market is now offering fresh homemade pizza Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Check them out. You can order set pizzas or design your own from a great variety of toppings. This is a welcome new venture for the village. Come and support it. Call 519775-2536 to place your order or for more information. Menus can be picked up at the store.

Pot Luck Dinner and Country Dancing

Trillium very generously provided $10 000 for our new furnaces. They are installed and working well. Our first fuel bill was about 1/3 of our previous oil bills. The money raised in the community will go towards the fuel. Thanks to everyone for all their help. Our hall is now in great order and being well utilized every night of the week and Tuesday afternoons. Every Tuesday evening, we have two groups using the hall, one up one down. We're very thankful to have this great facility in our community.

Historical Lighting for Sparta

The businesses appeared before Central Elgin Council last week hoping that Sparta could receive some help in The Sparta & District Historical putting in Victorian style lighting for Society are hosting a fun evening for downtown. It is difficult as our the everyone. Joins us at the Forge (46316 Hydro is provided by Hydro One and Sparta Line) at 6:30 on Saturday, they have full control over the poles. March 7 for a pot luck meal followed have been approached before They by country dancing or cards for those and have refused to allow any banners not wanting to dance. All ages are on their poles. Council asked the welcome. Please bring your own plates, cutlery and cup as well as one Physical Services Department to look into solar powered historical style food to share. Coffee, tea and water lampposts and lamps for the core of will be provided. If you wish another the village and bring it to budget debeverage please bring it. This is alliberations. The council has made ways a fun evening for the whole fammany improvements to the downtown ily. of Port Stanley and the Sparta businesses would like to also receive help. Several Members of the council spoke Children's baseball registration in favour of helping and felt Sparta will be Saturday, March 7 from 10 am was a unique historical village.

Baseball

The Port Stanley Lioness Clubs' Black & White Revue raised funds for the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital for laparoscopic bowel surgery. Accepting the gift of $2,500 is (L) Joanne Beaton, Foun-

dation Coordinator - Personal & Corporate Giving. Joining in are club members (L-R) Penny Tolmie, Event Co-Chair; Melsa Winger, Event Co-Chair; and, Wendy Thomson, Social Services Chair.

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Call for Tenders for Port Stanley New Boat Launch

Andrew Hibbert

Port Stanley Village Association Port Stanley Village Association (PSVA) member Dave McKee is rebuilding the PSVA web site to provide information about the village and ongoing events. You can visit the web site at www.psva.ca. The site has photos of village activities, upcoming events, contacts for local activity groups, meeting minutes as well as past meeting minutes and articles about the village. The web site will be updated regularly and any new information or suggestions for the web site can be sent to PSVA Board Chair Linda Easton at easton.linda@gmail.com.

Call for Beach Vendors The Municipality of Central Elgin is now accepting vendor applications for the 2015 beach season. If you are interested in selling your

The pier was where we swam and fished Continued From Page 1 home. When his mom answered the door he said: "Here's Jerry's clothes. He drownded (cct).”

Central Elgin is now accepting tenders for Tender CE-005/15 Port Stanley New Boat Launch. Tenders will be accepted until 11:00 a.m. local time Tuesday February 24th, 2015. Please find complete Tender information on our Tenders and RFPs page. The work includes supply of all materials and construction of a new boat launch at the end of the west harbour pier, as specified in the tender package plans and specifications. Printed Bid Documents may be obtained at the office of the Owner, The Municipality of Central Elgin, 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, ON, N5R 6K7, for a non-refundable fee of $30.00 (including HST) payable to The Corporation of The Municipality of Central Elgin. Bid Documents can also be obtained electronically at no charge upon request to Riggs Engineering Ltd., 205-1240 Commissioners Rd. W, London, ON, (519) 657-1040.

once assigned to cover the annual smelt run, a major phenomenon that has also passed into village history. I was very new to the business and was a writer, not a photographer so I had no idea what to do. Particularly in the dark. Take pictures? Take pictures of what? I noticed the shore was dotted with big bonfires as would-be fishermen waded into the water with nets in search of the tiny fish. And, yes, they were good eating fish. So I walked out on the pier for a different view. It looked like an invasion with the shore dotted with bonfires. I sat the big speed graphic camera on the concrete, opened the lens, and took a picture….I hoped.

But passing years brought a new era, a more litigious era that spawned not only political correctness but, well, rules and more rules. And those in charge ultimately ordered that a fence be erected and the pier closed. It was a baby/bathwater decision and a sad day for locals, many who thought they were paying a price. A price for the folly of careless tourists who would sometimes Turned out to be a photo that ran wander out in stormy weather ignoring across the top of Page 1 in the paper the obvious dangers. And some didn’t the next day. That was about 75 years come back. ago. How I'd love to have that picture. If you were born and raised in the So you can see when they closed the village you were miffed. It was, after all, pier there were people who missed the only place where we could actually those walks out into the lake. “dive” into the water. Was it too dangerous? It was where my father, a life-long Try walking across Edith Cavell in commercial fisherman and tug owner, traffic. summer taught me how to fish with a rod and reel. For once, it seems tax money is

being spent on something that we will And the pier had other, uses. If you were on a date there wasn't much to do all enjoy. or places to go back then. But you could Cheers, Jim Taylor take your date out on the pier and be (Jim Taylor is a freelance writer and columalone to….well, enjoy the view. As a journalist who began his career at the St. Thomas Times-Journal I was

T H E LAKE ER I E B EACON

Bonnie Mudge

product or providing a service at the beach in Port Stanley this summer, please contact Chandra Dougall, Policy and Communications Analyst, cdougall@centralelgin.org for the Vendor Application and Policy.

PORT STANLEY REPORT

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The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday February 20, 2015 • Page 5 50 full-time staff at its plant in Aylmer. Minister Gerry Ritz said during the announcement: "Our Government is proud to support the adoption of this first-in-Canada technology that will enable IGPC to improve the efficiency of its production processes and boost output of a renewable fuel such as ethanol. This expansion will boost the local economy while creating further demand for our corn producers' crops."

Grain Processor IGPC to Benefit from New Technology Continued From Page 1 Bioethanol is a form of quasi-renewable energy that can be produced from agricultural feedstocks. It can be made from very common crops such as sugar cane, potato, cassava and corn. There has been considerable debate about how useful bioethanol is in replacing gasoline. Concerns about its production and use relate to a fear of increased food prices due to the large amount of arable land required for crops, as well as the energy and pollution balance of the whole cycle of ethanol production, especially from corn. Recent developments with cellulosic ethanol production and commercialization may allay some of these concerns.

At the IGPC announcement were LtoR: Karen Vecchio Executive Assistant to Joe Preston, MPP Jeff Yureck, IGPC Chief Executive Jim Grey, Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, Adrian Op`t Hoog, IGPC Board President and Chairman and Greg Currie Aylmer Mayor. other important chemicals. Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz in Aylmer On Tuesday, February 10, 2015 Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz was in Aylmer, Ontario, to make an announcement in support of the grainprocessing sector. The location of the announcement was the Integrated Grain Processors Cooperative (IGPC) on Progress Drive.

Following the announcement Jim Grey, CEO of IGPC Ethanol said: “Funding such as this shows the government's commitment to innovation in agriculture, including renewable fuels production. This investment will help us bring new technology to our Aylmer facility, allowing us to greatly improve the efficiency of our plant, while laying the foundation for further investment in new technologies and new products." The Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz continued on his tour of Ontario with additional announcements of funding: At Brampton, Ontario, Minister Ritz announced an investment of $3.4M for Italpasta Limited to assist in the purchase and installation of pasta packaging and production equipment required for the manufacture of Macaroni and Cheese and long goods (pasta). At Mississauga, Minister Ritz announced an investment of $3 million to support a new research cluster led by the Canadian Food Innovators (CFI). This investment will help the food and beverage processing industry in developing new processes that enhance quality while managing food safety risks.

The announcement was an investment loan of $3.7 million by the Government of Canada to help Integrated Grain Processors Cooperative (IGPC) Ethanol Inc. install Canada's first Fiber Cellulosic ethanol offers promise be- Separation Technology™ (FST) system In Scarborough, the Minister ancause cellulose fibers, a major and uni- to help boost production through opernounced an investment of $4.9 milational efficiencies. versal component in plant cells walls, lion to help Tradition Fine Foods can be used to produce ethanol. AcThis loan will enable IGPC Ethanol Limited become one of the leading cording to the International Energy to have a higher output of ethanol, corn laminated and frozen pastry makers Agency, cellulosic ethanol could allow oil and distillers' grains, develop new ethanol fuels to play a much bigger role higher value animal feed products and in North America. This investment will be used to expand the comin the future than previously thought. lower the plant's energy consumption. pany’s existing bakery and for the The introduction of FST at the IGPC If you see a car with a “FlexFuel” purchase and installation of newplant allows for the early separation of logo on the back it can use a high perto-Canada pastry processing techfibre from corn prior to its fermentacentage ethanol fuel. Over 20% of cars nology. This will allow the firm to tion, increasing the efficiency of the in Brazil are able to run on 100% respond to incremental market opdistillation process and producing a ethanol fuel. portunities in North America. cleaner fibre product. Other uses of Ethanol Minister Ritz also attended the The investment will also help IGPC Canada Pork International Annual Ethanol is used in antiseptic and Ethanol to purchase approximately 18 Meeting in Toronto with an investsome antibacterial soaps and wipes. million bushels (up from 16 million ment of nearly $2 million to Ethanol is effective against viruses, currently) of corn grain from local strengthen traceability and biosecufungi and most bacteria but is ineffecfarmers for use as feedstock, thereby rity in Canada’s pork industry. tive against bacterial spores. Ethanol is boosting producers' bottom lines. occasionally used to treat poisoning by To wrap up the tour Agriculture This project builds on an earlier other alcohols that are more deadly and Agri-Food Canada is set to re$6.09 million investment under the (methanol is one particular example). lease the 2015 Canadian AgriculecoAgriculture Biofuels Capital Initiatural Outlook on Friday, February As ethanol is soluble in water, it can tive (ecoABC) which helped the cooper- 13, 2015. The Outlook provides a be used in a variety of different prodative build the Aylmer plant and begin forecast of the economic situation ucts. These include paint, permanent commercial operation in Dec. 2008. of the Canadian agriculture sector markers, perfumes and deodorants. and highlights the trends that are 780 farmers and agri-businesses Ethanol may also be used as a solvent in expected to influence global agrifounded IGPC Ethanol in 2002. It is a cooking, such as vodka sauce. Ethanol culture and agri-food markets over division of IGPC Inc. and is one of Onis considered a ‘feedstock’ into the chemical industry as it is used to make tario's largest cooperatives, employing the medium-term (2015 to 2024).

Ontario to Introduce Legislation to Protect the Great Lakes Continued From Page 2

if passed, would: • Help fight climate change, reduce harmful algal blooms, and protect wetlands and other coastal areas. • Monitor and report on the health of the lakes. • Bring people together to take action on priority issues. • Build on Ontario’s leadership in protecting the Great Lakes, including our Great Lakes Strategy and partnerships with Canada, Quebec, U.S.A., and the Great Lakes states. Protecting the Great Lakes supports the government's economic plan for Ontario. The four part plan is building Ontario up by investing in people's talents and skills, building new public infrastructure like roads and transit, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives and building a secure savings plan so everyone can afford to retire.

QUOTES “Today we celebrate the Great Lakes that are vitally important to the people of Ontario for our drinking water, quality of life, and prosperity. We need to restore them now to continue to enjoy their benefits for this and future generations.” — Glen Murray, Minister of the Environment and Climate Change Ontario is home to all of Canada's Great Lakes, so it is vital that we get it right for the economy, environment and the community. I am pleased to see a new initiative to protect the Great Lakes is proposed. Improving the health of our unique Great Lakes and St Lawrence River basin needs an integrated, co-ordinated, watershed approach. The 1600 kilometre Great Lakes Waterfront Trail is a reflection of what can be done when we work together. — David Crombie, Founding Chair, Waterfront Regeneration Trust “The Great Lakes, which 80 per cent of Ontarians rely on for drinking water, are finally getting the attention they need. Ontario is stepping up to the plate by making safe drinking water and a healthy lakes ecosystem a priority. We look forward to working with all parties to clean up toxic pollution, protect wetlands, restore fish and wildlife habitat, and reduce harmful algal blooms.” — Tim Gray, Executive Director, Environmental Defence

Why We Need to Protect the Great Lakes “The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Region, which comprises the provinces of Ontario and Quebec as well as eight American states, is undeniably one of the most important regions in the world. With an annual GDP of roughly $5.2 trillion, it represents the fourth largest global economy and accounts for over half of the total trade in merchandise between Canada and the United States. The Continued On Page 7

Page 6 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday February 20, 2015

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

E V E N T S

Dutton & District LIONS LIONS Charity Bingo: Wed., March 4, 7 pm, Dutton Dunwich Community Centre; featuring $500 Jackpot; Progressive (over $800) and several special games. Dutton & District LIONS famous, full breakfast: Sunday; March 8, 9 am- 1 pm, in LIONS DEN (behind Dutton Dunwich Community Centre) Adults $7.

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. Children’s Programs Maker Mondays, 6-6:45pm Calling all makers - Explore the bounds of materials and technology . Please pre-register! Pajama-Rama Mondays, 6:30-7pm. Stories & songs for all ages. No registration required, please drop in! Pre-School Story Time Tuesdays, 10:15am-11am . Songs, stories & crafts for children aged 0-5 with their caregiver. Please pre-register! Games Night Thursdays, 6pm, Come and meet new friends & get your game on! All ages are welcome - please drop in! Itty-Bitty-Knitty-CommitteeThursday, February 26, 7-8pm Come for an informal meeting - learn from others & pick up new tricks and patterns. All levels are welcome, please drop in! Scrapbooking Monday, February 23, 10am-12pm Bring your photos for a creative scrapbooking session $5 person please pre-register! Free-Film-Friday February 27, 2pm. "Bean to Bar - a film about Artisan Chocolate" Join us for our featured indie-flix film, in partnership with the PSFT - 1st come, 1st seated! Special Programs Winter Reading Club. "Once Upon a Winter" Now till March 21. Receive a ballot when you check out books -1/day Weekly draws for adults! Grand Prize for Kids! Arm-Knit an Infinity Scarf! Thursday, February 26, 7pm Learn how to arm knit an infinity scarf in just 30 minutes! Please bring 4 skeins of super bulky yarn in your choice of colour. Please ask for details! Quilting in the Library Come on in and try your hand at quilting for a good cause. Everyone is welcome to participate! Thread and needles provided - please bring your own thimble. 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. February 22, 2015, annual

FINGAL 2015

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.

SHEDDEN 2015

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 Fridays, 1111:45am. Songs, stories & crafts for children ages 0-5 with their caregiver - please pre-register! Games Day Saturdays, 2:30-4:30 pm Drop in and bring your family to play traditional card & board games as well as Wii! Maker Saturdays February 28, 3:00-4:00pm Calling all makers! Explore the bounds of materials and technology please pre-register! Arm-Knit an Infinity Scarf! Saturday, February 21, 3pm Learn how to arm-knit an infinity scarf in just 30 minutes! Please bring 4 skeins of super bulky yarn in your choice of colour. No registration required. Winter Reading Club "Once Upon a Winter"Now till March 21. Receive a ballot when you check out books (limit 1 ballot per day) Weekly draws for Adults! Grand Prize for Kids! Shedden Soccer Registration NO TRAVEL – ALL games in Shedden, February 28 9am-12noon, March 4 6:30-8:30pm $65 /player. Shedden Complex, Youth 4-18, Ladies 19+. info: www.sheddensoccer.ca Michelle Lackey, 519-636-1521

SPARTA 2015

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). AA Group Meetings: Tuesdays at 8 pm in the lower hall at the Community Centre.

meeting after church at St. John's Presbyterian Church.

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 Youth Group at St. John's Presbyterian Church will be holding their annual Spaghetti Supper, February 20, 5 pm-7 pm. Please support the youth. Tickets $10 call 519-782-3971. VON Foot Care Clinic February 26 at The Villa Apts, 289 Frances Street 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Call 519-782-4089 for appointment. Sponsored by Port Stanley Lioness Club. 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. Heritage Port will meet February 26th, 1:30 pm at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre. Post Card books Vol. 1 & Vol 2 now available, $90 each, only 1 set remaining. Port Stanley the First 100 Years, $25. Get yours at the Lake Erie Beacon, 204-A Carlow Road, side door, 1-5 pm. Proceeds to Heritage Port. 519 782-4563. 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! Port Stanley Legion Port Stanley Karaoke, Every 3rd Friday of the month, 7pm - 11pm. Come for the fun.

ST. THOMAS 2015

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 Trinity Anglican Church presents February 25, 12 pm, Lenten Lunch Concert Series featuring Catherine Gray, Soup, Sandwich, Dessert following Concert $8, 519-631-7000. Trinity Anglican Church presents March 4, 12 pm, Lenten Lunch Concert Series, featuring Gerald Vreman, Soup, Sandwich, Dessert following Concert, $8, 519-631-7000.

TYRCONNELL 2015

Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Line, 519-762-3072.

UNION 2015

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

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.

WEST LORNE 2015

The Treble Makers Women’s Choir Women 14 and up who love to sing! Join us for a 3 month FREE trial! Have you thought it'd be fun- but didn't want to make the commitment? Be a part of our group, learn to sing and read music. Sing with us at our next concert! You’re invited to join us for rehearsals on Wednesdays from 7-9 in the WESES music room, West Lorne. For details about this offer, please contact Jane: 519-768-1717. The Arts & Cookery Bank March 10 – Fest-a-Month: Ireland Dining Experience 519-768-9986, – www.theartsandcookerybank.com The Arts & Cookery Bank March 12 – The Lost Arts Makin’ Homemade Marshmallows 519-768-9986 – www.theartsandcookerybank.com

PORT BURWELL/VIENNA 2015

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 Legion Br. 524 Mixed Dart Tournament, Everyone Welcome. Sign up 10:am Start 11:00am. Teams & Doubles. $40:00 per team. 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 519-874-4028 for information. 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. 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.

The Port Stanley Community Food Bank at Christ Anglican Church PLEASE!!! We are servicing more clients this year than ever before! We need you to drop off non-perishable items at Foodland or call 519 782-3122 for pick-up. The food bank is open the third week of the month: Tues. 3:30-6 pm Thurs. 10 - Noon For cheque donations please send to: Port Stanley Foodbank, c/o Christ Church, 283 Colborne St. Port Stanley, On. , N5L 1A9

AYLMER 2015

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 2015

Dexter United Church Dexter Line. Service of Worship at 9:15 am followed by a time of fellowship.

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PORT STANLEY 2015

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

Keep Your 911 Address Signs Visible

Lake Erie Beacon on facebook and www.issuu.com

Elgin County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) along with other emergency service responders in Elgin County is asking all residents to check their 911 signs to ensure that they are clear and visible from the roadway. The 911 signs are the blue and white signs outside the front of your residence and is registered as your municipal address. Emergency service responders rely on these 911 signs to quickly and effectively locate the dispatched address of the emergency. Time is wasted when responders can-

not see the signs which are sometimes covered by brush, obscured by large objects in front of them, have been knocked down, damaged or completely removed. If your 911 sign has been damaged or is missing please contact your local Municipality or Township office to have it replaced. If your sign has been moved from its original location for any reason, please have it returned to its original location. Time can make the difference between life and death; please help Elgin County Emergency Responders get to you quickly in an emergency.

The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday February 20, 2015 • Page 7

Longwoods March Continued From Page 3 tory in which over 20 soldiers of both sides were killed, and 80 were wounded out of a total of 400 participants. In honour of the Twenty Mile march conducted by the Royal Scots and 89th Light Companies from Delaware to the Battle Hill Site on March 4, 1814, members of the UTMRS and supporters are re-enacting this march on Saturday, February 28, 2015 with the “20 mile march” to raise funds for the Pulmonary Hypertension Association of Canada to find a treatment and cure. Pulmonary Hypertension is a disease, which effects young and old. It is a constriction in the lungs, which makes even simple activity difficult, causing other organs to be over-

worked. The funds raised will be donated to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association of Canada in honour of four –year- old Everleigh Pierce of West Lorne who is afflicted with this condition. We are asking anyone who wishes to support this worthy cause to contact Glenn Stott either by phone (519 828 3843) or by e-mail (gstott@xcelco.on.ca) leaving your name, phone number and address. On Sunday, March 1, the 15th annual Memorial Service will be conducted at the Battle of Longwoods Site at 2945 Longwoods Road at 2:00pm. Following the service a luncheon will be held at Wardsville United Church at 2:45 pm. Following the luncheon, a special preview of a film about the Bicentennial of Longwoods will be held at the old Community Centre in Wardsville, 1788 Longwoods Road (Crocodile Productions) at 4:00 pm. All are welcome!

North Shore Community Classified Serving over 7000 Homes, Apartments, Farms & Businesses HELP WANTED

Advertising Sales Reps • For St.Thomas area & • For Western Elgin area • Must have own car • Experience preferred but will consider qualifications. Please reply to

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Port Stanley Public School Activities February 2015 350 Carlow Rd., Port Stanley, Ontario, N5L 1B6 Phone: 519-782-3983 Principal: Ms. Sheila Pinder Secretary: Mrs. Debbie Sutherland February 25 Hot Lunch Day (School), Chicken Nugget Meal Day February 27 Spirit Day (School) Super Hero Day Assembly (School) Character Recognition Assembly 9:15 am. March Break 16th-20th

LOOKING FOR A “FOREVER HOME”!!!

Help Wanted ASSISTANT PROPERTY MANAGER The Assistant Property Manager, under the direction of the Property Manager, is responsible SCAMMERS for coordinating all aspects This ofad apartment was community operations posted in our and tolast act as main point issue. of contactyou in theto absence Thank the ofindividual the Property Manager who The right candidate must applied for the be a team player with a position and positive can-do attitude. let Resume us know Send to: that

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Ramelia Animal Aide has a policy that requires an adoptive family to keep our cat indoors. Some people still feel that if the cat wants out or it's just too much trouble to keep it indoors that everything will be ok. Cat will be fine, nothing can happen, it always comes back. Ramelia begs to differ. One year old Ramelia became ours Jan.11, 2015 after she made her way to the home of the person who brought her in. She had either

Animal Aide Association 333 Talbot St. St. Thomas

been hit by a car or tossed out the window. Either way, she suffered a broken hip and nerve damage to her tail resulting in it's amputation. They believe her hip injury happened some time ago, which means she has been suffering with it for some time. It is also likely that she spent a great deal of her life outside, fendin for herself. She is sweet and shy, but still loves to be petted and needs a quiet, understanding home. Upcoming events: We are planning a garage sale for March 7 at St. Andrew's Church.

Ontario to Introduce Port Bruce Report Legislation to Protect Continued From Page 3 the Great Lakes Continued From Page 5 region is also home to some of world’s most unique ecosystems and supplies approximately 21 per cent of the world’s freshwater. Because of these attributes and the region’s vastness, we must work collaboratively - across sectors and across the border - to find sustainable pathways that help preserve our environment in the Great Lakes while building a strong economy. Ontario can lead the way!” — Mark P. Fisher, President and CEO, Council of the Great Lakes Region

QUICK FACTS • The Great Lakes provide more than 80 per cent of Ontario’s drinking water and are important for the province’s economic prosperity. • Over 95 per cent of Ontario's agricultural land is in the Great Lakes basin. • Since 2007, Ontario has committed more than $125 million to over 1,000 Great Lakes projects.

The Royal Salute plaque in Port Bruce. Sir Johnson of the recent surrender of Belle Isle and that the English had been victorious in the war. He then gave orders for three volleys to be fired as a Royal Salute. According to historical reports Sir Johnson continued his voyage to Detroit, arriving on September 2, that year. In a booklet of the 1933 ‘Letters of Levi Young to the Aylmer Express’ it is reported that from the time of the Royal Salute until the first of the nineteenth century, Port Bruce remained a wooded valley with occasional voyageurs in canoes or small boats stopping along the shore. Much has changed in over 250 years!

North Shore SERVICE DIRECTORY For Businesses Located Near You!

Paul F. Lépine LAW OFFICE Working Together To Serve Port Stanley

VEDOVA & CHAMBERLAIN Purchases & Sales of Property Mortgages Wills & Estates Powers of Attorney Family Law

Tel: 519.782.4562 or 226.658.4155 221 Colborne St., Port Stanley N5L 1C2

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The Port Stanley Promotional Brochure In the early spring of this year, 2015, we will again be publishing and distributing the Port Stanley Map Brochure. This tourism brochure is delivered to US/Canada border crossings from Port Huron to Niagara. To Information stands along the 401 from Toronto to Windsor as well as in Hotels and Motels in London, Brantford and Hamilton. The brochure also goes to every other information stand in Southwestern Ontario.

If your business would like to be part of this advertising campaign please contact Linda at 519-782-4563 This is the only stand-alone brochure that promotes Port Stanley

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Page 8 • The Lake Erie Beacon • Friday February 20, 2015

County Budget Initiatives to Improve Resident Quality of Life Lodge long-term care home;

Elgin County At its February 10, 2015 meeting, Elgin County Council approved a $63,128,000 operating budget, with a 6.5 per cent levy increase in County taxes representing a 5.4% increase on the average home or approximately $73 more for the year. An average cost home with no increase in assessment will see a $33 or 2.5% increase in County taxes. Council’s focus on efficiencies combined with the low to moderate use of reserves has allowed Elgin to maintain and in some cases improve service levels while maintaining an affordable tax increase, even in the face of declining revenue from the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF) and the Ford property tax.

for Terrace Lodge residents, investment in high speed fibre broadband and a Community Improvement Plan (CIP). These initiatives will improve quality of life for residents while investing in the future of the local economy.

In 2015, Council will focus on sev"Previous Councils have invested in eral initiatives including a new building quality care for Elgin's residents when

Bobier Villa and Elgin Manor were rebuilt in 1996 and 2003 respectively, it is now time to bring that kind of investment in care to Terrace Lodge," said Elgin County Warden Paul Ens.

Highlights include:

•

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$1.5 million for economic development initiatives (high speed broadband and CIP);

•

Paramedics added in the east end of the County to improve response times in 2014, will continue in 2015, and will enhance services by additionally providing home visits to seniors at risk;

•

County roads will receive $8.1 million in 2015 capital budget funding including;

•

Dexter Line ($5.2 million), John St. and Bradley Creek culvert ($1.2 million), Road 45 Rehabilitation ($2.5 million), and Plank/Vienna Reconstruction ($3.9 million); and,

•

$2.4 million investment in accessibility improvements.

$29.7 million for a new Terrace

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