Vol. 8, Issue 1 Newsstand Price $1.50 per week Thursday, September 3, 2020 Half turned away 75 years of hard work and happiness Heather Wright are still higher than the provin- The Independent cial average. And even more telling is how Half of the people looking for many people are being turned a residential program to kick away. Reaume-Zimmer says drugs or alcohol in Sarnia and they recently started tracking Lambton County are turned how many callers they could away. not find residential treatment That from Paula Reaume-Zim- programs. “We decline almost mer, Bluewater Health’s vice 50 per cent of the callers for president of mental health and residential withdrawal manage- addictions. ment.,” she says. “So with the As the hospital marked over- demand, people are reaching out dose awareness month, Reaume- now, and so it’s really maxing Zimmer says there were fewer out what our capacity has avail- people coming to the emergency able.” room and calling an ambulance Reaume-Zimmer says the because of fears over being statistics underscore how critical infected with COVID-19 at the a new residential program is in hospital. Sarnia. It has been in the hands ER visits dropped 21 per cent of the provincial government over the same time last year and for years. Reaume-Zimmer says ambulance calls dropped 11 per they are still working through cent. Lambton’s emergency de- approvals and hope to select a partment’s opioid related visits site soon. No masks in Dawn-Euphemia Heather Wright Broad told council some The Independent people gave the impression Dawn-Euphemia was “ignoring There won’t be a mandatory the issue...that’s not the case.” mask bylaw in Dawn-Euphemia. With three council members Mayor Al Broad held a special at the meeting passed a motion meeting Tuesday to get the saying council recommended thoughts of council on the issue. wearing a mask and keep their In July, Lambton County physical distance to stop the councillors decided against a spread of COVID-19. county-wide bylaw to mandate Broad, and Councillors Leslea masks to limit the spread of Williams, and Mark McGuire COVID-19. Councillors voted agreed education was the against the idea some citing the best way to handle the issue. advice of the medical officer “Families, out of the abundance of health who said mandatory of caution, are making the best wasn’t necessary at this time decision for their families,” says since almost all of the cases of Williams. COVID-19 could be traced to McGuire says he wears a mask close contact not spread in the but “if someone has a deep community. seated belief or a physical prob- In the wake of the decision, lem wearing them, I don’t think Sarnia, Petrolia, Lambton we should be forcing them.” Shores and Point Edward each Municipal staff added 95 per pass a mandatory bylaw while cent of people coming into the Plympton-Wyoming and St. building have been wearing a Clair turned the idea down. mask. Heather Wright Photo Wednesday, Sarnia Mayor Broad says he wanted the com- Wilfred Mitchell gives his wife, Betty, a little kiss on the porch of their St. Clair Township home Friday. The Mike Bradley is expected to ask munity to know where council couple celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary Sunday with cake and family; mirroring the celebration county councillors once again to stood and will vote against a they had in 1945 at his parent’s Oil Springs farm. For more on the story see page 2. implement a county-wide bylaw. county wide mask bylaw.

for all your back Shop to s hool Localbrought to you by the Petrolia Volunteer Business Groupc needs 2 – The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton Thursday, September 3, 2020 Seventy five years of hard work and happiness Heather Wright she went to the Hillman Hotel in than he was in town.” The Independent Petrolia where she worked for $7 a “I had a check in my pocket and week and a room, cleaning rooms I wouldn’t have to pull it out,” In 1942, when Wilford Mitchell and serving at the restaurant six says Wilford. and his friend met Mary Betty St. days a week. Their little family grew to six John and her friend at the Brigden By 1945, just months after Betty children and they worked the Fair, he could not have know he turned 18, they were married. farm together. By 1960, the job would share nearly eight decades Betty wore a light pink dress at Sarnia Bridge ended and they of his life with her. and Wilford a sharp suit to the expanded their farm operation. It was the beginning of many ceremony at the ministers house. Their daughter, Rosemary meetings between the 16 year-old The celebration was small. Betty’s George, says her dad and mom Wilford and 15 year-old Betty as mother had saved her sugar rations worked hard together. she was known. to make a cake to celebrate. They had chickens initially - up The spent time together with Afterward, the couple took to 1,000 of them which kept Betty friends and before long Wilford Wilford’s Model A and headed to busy sometimes until the early was hitchhiking to Petrolia to see a Detroit for a honeymoon at her hours of the morning. show and to see Betty at the Dairy uncle’s. It proved to be a more dif- By 1964, they started buying Bar where she worked. ficult trip than expected, changing cattle raising 300 head a year. Wilford says Betty made an several flat tires along the way. Wilford raised cattle as he had as impression. It was a good time away and the a young man in Oil Springs and “She made a good hamburgs,” Mitchell’s still have the mirror fixed farm equipment with his he says with a slight smile while their uncle made for them as a welding skills. sitting at the table of the Brigden wedding gift. The couple became involved area farmhouse Friday. When they returned home, they in the Lambton Cattlemens’ Wilford kept coming back. Even- went to work on the family farm. Association and were soon Heather Wright Photo tually, he had his own car to drive. By 1948, the couple decided to travelling around Canada and Wilford and Betty Mitchell share a laugh at their home near Brigden. He would come into Petrolia to strike out on their own buying a the United States on trips for the The couple celebrated their 75th anniversary Sept. 1. The couple take her home to the end of Maude farm west of Brigden. organization. have six children, 14 grandchildren 32 great grandchildren and one Street at the end of her shift. “We had a dollar in our wallet They continued chicken farming great, great grandchild on the way any day now. When Betty turned 16, Wilford when we moved over there...and until 1980 and cattle farming until gave her a ring with her initials en- we had two little ones,” says Betty. 2018 before they retired. Today, the couple still live on Betty still cooks their meals graved on it - BSJ. She still wears Wilford went to work at the Sar- “They were both hands-on one of their farms. and Wilford still appreciates her it on her pinky. nia Bridge Company while Betty farmers,” says George. “Betty Wilford has had some health cooking, although he jokes her They soon realized they shared stayed home with the kids and was a hard worker gathering eggs issues recently spending a week hamburger is not quite as good as the same work ethic. During the worked the farm. every day from their laying hens.” in hospital, but the 92 year-old is it used to be. Second World War, Wilford’s “I had 500 hens west of Brigden Betty was also active in the fine now. Sunday, they had a simple father petitioned to have him stay and I had two cows and I raised Brigden Do-R Best Women’s Their life is not as busy now, celebration - coffee and cake home to work on the farm; Betty veal on my two cows,” she says. Institute. It just dissolved last year. says Betty. They watch Wheel of with family - mirroring that first worked in a munitions factory “He was getting a dollar an hour George says Betty loved music Fortune and then Jeopardy every celebration 75 years ago in Oil in Sarnia making bombs for the and I was getting more money and the couple often went to local night. Then, they play the card Springs when they started their life war effort. After she was laid off, with my cows and my chickens dances and Fiddlers Contests. game SkipBo until 11 at night. together. Staggered start for back to school Heather Wright Tues. Sept. 15. The Independent At the secondary level, Grade 9 students are the first back to school on Sept. 14. 22020 Peettrroolliiaa There will be a few extra days of summer Grade 10 to 12 students will be in class vacation for students in Lambton. Tues. Sept. 15. The Lambton Kent District School Board The first day of at home learning will be CCoommpost DDaayyss and the St. Clair District Catholic School Sept. 14. on Saturdays! Boards have just released the start times “The staggered entry of students in ele- on Saturdays! for the new school year as parents brace mentary and secondary schools will provide WWaassttee MMaannagement Petrolliia ssiittee,, themselves for a school year of pandemic staff with additional time to become more 44448855 Progress Drive protocols. familiar with school health and safety rou- Officials say senior kindergarten to Grade tines and complete training to support a safe PPEETTRROOLIA RESIDENTS JJuunnee 66,, 2200 8 students will be back in class Thursday and healthy return to school. The staggered FOR 2020 THERE IS Sept. 10. But only half the students will be entry will also allow LKDSB and SCCDSB FOR 2020 THERE IS JJuullyy 1111,, 2255 there the first day. Sept. 11, the other half to hire additional staff to lower class sizes in NNOO PPAASS PURCHASE AAuugguusstt 88,, 2222 of the students will go to school for the day. schools and support Learn at Home instruc- REQUIRED. Parents will be notified by the school which tion. REQUIRED. SSeepptt.. 1122,, 2266 day of the week their student will attend to “Additional time is also required to Acceptable Materials: Oct. 3, 17, 24 learn all about the new protocols. reorganize staff and student schedules to AYacrcde Wpatsateb l e Materials: Oct. 3, 17, 24 Y• arLde aWveasste Junior Kindergarten students return to support both in-class and Learn at Home •• LGeraavsess clippings school using a staggered approach starting instruction,” say board officials. •• GGraarsdse cnl iwpapsinteg s • Garden waste 8:00 a.m. - NOON Brush 8:00 a.m. - NOON B• ruHsehd g es TIPS • Hedges TIPS Mayor cancels appreciation luncheon • Shrubs 1. Yard Waste and Brush will be separated •• SWhoruobdsy plants (e.g. vines or rose bushes) 1. Yard Waste and Brush will be separated • Woody plants (e.g. vines or rose bushes) in to two bins— please do not bag it together. NOT Acceptable Materials: in to two bins— please do not bag it together. Heather Wright Napper thanked all NOT Acceptable Materials: 2. Please use paper bags or reusable bins. The Independent • Waste and recyclables 2. Please use paper bags or reusable bins. those who helped out •• WSaosdt,e s aoinl da nredc syacnladbles 3. Brush m ust be of reasonable size and length. with event saying over •• SBoudil,d sinogil manadte sriaanlsd 3. Brush m ust be of reasonable size and length. •• BSutioldniensg materials 4. Residents will be asked to take unacceptable Another Plympton-Wyoming is going the years between 150 •• STtroenee Lsimbs/Branches not exceeding 4” i4te. mRse shiodmenet.s will be asked to take unacceptable by the wayside because of COVID-19 and 200 people were •i n Tdrieaem Leitmerbs/Branches not exceeding 4” item s hom e. restrictions. recognized and over in diameter Mayor Lonny Napper told council Aug. CURBSIDE WOOD CHIPPING! $10,000 was raised for CURBSIDE WOOD CHIPPING! June 22 & 23 26 that he is “wrapping up” his annual local charities. - branches can be no more than 4” in diameter, and placed June 22 & 23 Mayor’s Appreciation Awards Lunch. He “It’s something that I -i n b ara nnecahte psi lcea ant bthee n cou mrbo (rPe itleh asniz 4e” minu sdti anmote teexrc, eaendd placed July 20 & 21 i4n’ alo nnega xt p1i0le’ waitd teh ex 5cu’ hrbig (hP)ile size must not exceed July 20 & 21 says restrictions because of the COVID-19 hate to do,” he says of 4-’ Iltoenmgs xt o1 0b’e w pildaec exd 5 f’o hr icghi)pping no earlier than 4pm the day before Aug. 10 & 11 pandemic mean the Camlachie Community pulling the plug on the Lonny -a Intedm nso tloa tbeer tphlanc e7da mfo ro cnh tihpep icnhgi pnpoi nega rdlaieter sthan 4pm the day before Aug. 10 & 11 Centre likely won’t be available for a large event “but I just can’t do Napper and no later than 7am on the chipping dates Sept. 14 & 15 crowd to use this year. And he says with his it anymore.” Sept. 14 & 15 wife, Carolyn, locked down in a nursing Napper vows to find home during the pandemic, they can’t work another way to recognize the good in the For more information: (519)882-2350 or visit www.town.petrolia.on.ca on the project as easily. “It was something community. For more information: (519)882-2350 or visit www.town.petrolia.on.ca we loved to do together.” Thursday, September 3, 2020 The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton – 3 Alvinston is the only station needed says consultant Can you hear me now? Heather Wright their newly created fire department. • pre planning fire plans with owners The Independent With no significant development on the of industrial, commerical, agricultural PW to spend investigate a more perma- near horizon, a single fire station cur- and institutional buildings nent system which would Brooke-Alvinston is well served by rently in service in Alvinston should be • performance plans and appraisals for $25k on new allow residents at home to its newly created fire department and able to provide emergency coverage to all firefighters hear what was being said. a single station in Alvinston can serve the entire community for the foresee- • modifying the women’s washrooms video system Tripp came back to coun- the entire municipality. able future.” to provide showers for female mem- cil Aug. 26 with a system That’s one of the man findings of a The consultant offered 23 recommen- bers Heather Wright which would provide both fire consultant’s report up for discus- dations - the main one being enhancing • create a capital plan and put away The Independent clear audio and video. sion Wednesday by Brooke-Alvinston public education about fire prevention. money for future capital and equip- “It’s three cameras in the council and members of Brooke Fire The report says that while firefighters ment purchases Plympton-Wyoming room to catch that (coun- Rescue. can respond to any fire in the muni- • charge a fee for burn permits council has been having cil and the audience) and The municipality hired Firehouse 33 cipality within the industry standard • install a fire gear washing station a rough time at council audio would be through- to look at the efficiency of the depart- guidelines, a house can go up in flames Members of the Brooke Fire Service, meetings. out the room to catch all ment after months of turmoil. In May in the three minutes, so residents have including new chief Steve Knight, Aside from the issues voices,” says Tripp. 2018, 16 firefighters in Inwood, includ- to know what to do before firefighters have gone through the consultant’s council faces, it has been Council agreed to spend ing the station chief, resigned after a arrive. report and will be providing comment struggling with vir- almost $26,000 on a series of disputes about training with The consultant also recommends on what they see as important items to tual meetings since the system from Avolution the new chief. It left the 70 year old creating an Emergency Medical move forward on. COVID-19 pandemic Media. “The clerk and department with a skeleton crew and Responder Team made up of Brooke In a report to council, Chief Knight forced council meetings treasurer feel that this is meant firefighters from Alvinston filled Fire Rescue members for the Inwood says; “The status of the Inwood Station online. something that we can the gap. By 2019, the municipality area. The members would be properly has been a constant discussion of the Frequently, residents put under the COVID needed to renew a lease on the firehall, trained and outfitted to respond to community and BFR for many months. attending the meetings can accounts and hopefully which is owned by the Inwood Fire- medical emergencies, and accidents to A decision of council needs to be made be seen on video straining receive money faster,” men’s Association. Months of conflict stabilize a scene. to determine the need for a fire pres- to hear what was being says Tripp. The province is ended with the municipality removing And the report says money should ence in Inwood or to move forward said. Other times, people giving municipalities cash the trucks Jan. 1 and placing them in a be put into a capital reserve for a time with having one station in Alvinston to who were speaking to to cover expenses related rented drive shed in the community. when there was enough development respond to calls in the municipality,” council would not be able to COVID-19. She added Recently, the municipality tried to by in Inwood to justify a new station. he writes. to answer a question be- there is other money which the building back, but that effort also There were 24 recommendations in “The interim report utilized past cause they couldn’t follow was not spent this year or failed. all including: emergency and fire call data, response the conversation. reserves which could be Firehouse 33 looked at the com- • using technology, including software times and drive time maps to establish That prompted Council- used. munity’s service and in its final report already in use, to advance the depart- that the Inwood area and municipality lor Tim Wilkins to ask Avolution will install a concluded “The Municipality of ment including tablets to help control as a whole is currently well serviced Chief Administrative temporary system until the Brooke-Alvinston is well served by some of the apparatus with the Alvinston Station.” Officer Carolyn Tripp to correct equipment arrives.

STARTING SEPTEMBER 8 SERVICES WILL EXPAND TO INCLUDE

Origins of Fairbank concrete a mystery CONTACTLESS CURBSIDE PICKUP Heather Wright The name is unmistakable but there is The Independent some question about the date - Fairbank AT BRIGDEN LIBRARY believes it was likely 1888 but pieces of Charlie Fairbank has a bit of a history the stone had chipped away over the years; & GRAND BEND LIBRARY mystery on his hands after a piece of con- Brand says it seems to be 1893. crete with his family name was discovered Either way, Fairbank isn’t sure where it by a Petrolia area farmer. came from, speculating it may have been SCHEDULED APPOINTMENTS Trevor Brand has been accepting concrete at “The Big House” at one time. “I was from contractors for years hoping to some- responsible for my grandmother’s wood- day crush it into stone. But recently, Brand box, so I was all through the house and all AT 14 LOCATIONS dropped a large chunk of concrete and the through the orchard. I don’t remember that Fairbank name was revealed. stone...I wish I could tell you where it came “It was actually upside down (on the pile) from but I don’t recall it.” and I dropped it; otherwise it could still be Fairbank will bring it to the Oil Springs in the pile. And who is to say - there could homestead and place it at the entrance on be more in there.” Drury Road. “For now, I will accept it as Brand called Fairbank who came down it is and then try and puzzle out where it to take a look at what may have been an is from,” he says adding “there are other archway supported by posts with a square people in town who should remember what piece on the top. this is from.” COMPUTER USE WI-FI USE SPACE FOR ACADEMIC STUDY / RESEARCH Aamjiwnaag man arrested after lockdown Saturday TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT: Alex Kurial Police asked residents of Aamjiwnaag Local Journalism Initiative to stay inside for several hours while they 519-337-3291 EXT. 5900 / 1-866-324-6912 EXT. 5900 searched for the shooter. LCLIBRARY.CA/APPOINTMENTS Sarnia Police have arrested a man Maness was arrested at his Beaver Circle following a shooting at Aamjiwnaang First house shortly after midnight. Police found AT SELECT LOCATIONS Nation on Aug. 29. a number of firearms during a search of his Alvinston | Brigden | Bright’s Grove | Corunna | Florence | Forest | Grand Bend Marshall Maness, 46, is alleged to have home. Oil Springs | Petrolia | Point Edward | Sombra | Thedford | Watford | Wyoming entered a Wahboose Circle residence around Maness faces 14 charges, including a pair 8:45 pm and fired several shots at a pair of of weapon assault charges and seven counts people inside. One person was hit in the arm of uttering death threats. VISIT WWW.LCLIBRARY.CA FOR FULL DETAILS and treated at Bluewater Health. - The Independent of Petrolia 4 – The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton Thursday, September 3, 2020 Editorial Labour lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic Our Story Our world of work has been set on its head in 2020 and as Labour Day approaches, there are Labour Day lessons to be learned. In March, over three million Canadians were laid off as provincial governments ordered all non-essential workers to stay home. Those non-essential workers would have been in a precarious state if they were left to themselves.. The federal government stepped in with the Canadian Emergency Response Benefit - $2,000 a month for those whose job had disappeared overnight. Over seven million people took advantage of it. There needs to be an accounting of how this program rolled out, but we believe many will recognize how important it was at the time to keep food on the table and ease fears. It may even prove to lessen the long- term economic impact of the pandemic. This Labour Day we recognize the vital importance of government investing in people who are in need. We watched as health care workers cared for the ill in hospitals and nursing homes and learned many are not properly compensated for the work they do. Personal support workers have long been in short supply and underpaid, and COVID-19 shone the spotlight on that. Today, as the restrictions are easing, those PSW “pandemic pay” is over and there is still too much work for too few people. This Labour Day we need to urge the province to increase their wages, 10 per cent a year for five years is one suggestion, and attract new people into the industry. Health care workers also still have important parts of their collective agreements suspended in health care. PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK The province allows their work schedules and places to An interesting shot of the GTR Station in Petrolea. There is no indication of the date of this photo but the change without notice. And workers are still restricted building was erected in 1903. Today, it is the town’s library. to one workplace which likely decreases their earning power. This Labour Day, we say the province needs to remove those emergency orders. If it wants trained health care workers to work in one place only, it should Choosing the suds over the gag inducing hand sanitizer make their jobs full-time and pay an appropriate wage. The pandemic has opened our eyes to nature of work I have become a hand sanitizer alcohol usually coming from an to a “potentially in Canada and much of it is precarious and part-time. connoisseurs, a sommelier if you will improvised spray bottle. Armageddon of all gel-based alcohol. The water sanitizer is not that scenario” of super If we don’t want our government’s to bail out people From the beginning of the COVID-19 effective in my mind - it dries to bugs. It seems in trouble, we need to encourage the creation of full pandemic, hand sanitizer was a hot quickly and I can’t apply it over my hand sanitizer time jobs with good wages so people can stay afloat in commodity, the price of hand sanitizer whole hand. doesn’t kill troubled times. skyrocketed, you couldn’t find it in a Then there is the ewwey-gooey hand everything and store near you and distilleries started sanitizer - that glop of gel that does not what’s left is food Letters to the Editor making their own version of the ethyl seem to absorb into your hands. I’ve for seriously nasty The Independent welcomes Letters to the Editor. alcohol based wonder gel. actually scrapped it off on the edges of bugs. They feast Our preferred methods to receive letters are via email Every store I would walk into to tables because even a little dab is way on what’s left and to [email protected] (please use deliver papers would have at least too much. It also smells like dog barf. we have more Letter in the subject line) or through our website www. one bottle. In the early stages of the And that lovely odour lingers telling problems - bigger petrolialambtonindependent.ca pandemic I must have used hand reminding you that you have killed problems than Heather You can also deliver letters to The Independent at 4156 sanitizer about 50 times a day. You germs and likely your sense of smell can be solved by Wright Petrolia Line, Petrolia or drop them in the mail at The can believe me when I say not all are as well. I did find one gel that was not sanitizers. So, Independent, Petrolia, ON, NON 1R0. created equal. There are some that are too bad, but I’d still rather use soap I will put away The Independent reserves the right to edit letters for brevity not completely disgusting, and that’s and water. my pocket sized and clarity. about the most positive thing I can say. Today, I found another reason to protector and search for a sink from All letters need to be signed and must have a phone number You have the hand sanitizer “water” search for a sink; British scientists say now on. It will be better for me and for verification. which is basically a mist of ethyl too much hand sanitizer could lead likely less gag inducing.

The contents of this newspaper are protected by copyright. www.petrolialambtonindependent.ca No material from this edition may be reproduced without expressed written consent of The Independent of Petrolia & Central Lambton © Publisher / Editor: Heather Wright [email protected] Reporters: Alex Kurial Sales Associates: [email protected] Classi eds / Graphics: Sarah Hills / Julli Archibald o[email protected]

4156 Petrolia Line, Petrolia, ON N0N 1R0 • 226-738-0728 Publications Mail Registration No. 42663514 Proud host of the Local Journalism Initiative Subscription Rates: $55.00/year within 50 kms of Petrolia Post Oce $65.00/year outside of 50 km radius $75.00/year other provinces (HST included on all prices) Subscriptions are non-refundable Thursday, September 3, 2020 The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton – 5

Former federal ag minister Ralph Ferguson dies • Emery Huszka Dealer - Florence ON, 226-373-6244 Heather Wright Whip 1982 to 1984, and parliamentary • Julie Maw The Independent Dealer - Courtright ON, secretary to the Minister of Finance 519-384-2281 from March to June 1984. • Dave Foulon The Alvinston farmer who was Ferguson was involved in several Dealer - Tupperville ON, the Agriculture Minister in the John trade missions, championing the idea 519-683-2136 • Dave Emery, Territory Manager Turner government has passed away. of export market expansion. He played South Lambton ON, Ralph Ferguson died Aug. 30 after a role in the creation of the Canadian 519-360-6072 www.maizex.com a long struggle with Alzheimer’s Agricultural Export Corporation • Kirk Van Will, Territory Manager 4488 Mint Line, North Lambton ON, RR#2 Tilbury, Ontario according to a Facebook post from his which was disbanded by the Mulroney 519-899-3255 N0P 2L0 son, John. government. Ferguson farmed and conserved his One of his most important acts as the family’s land in Brooke Township Minister of Agriculture was to the first for years and was active in farm controlled environment seed bank in politics long before he was elected an effort to protect parent seed stocks. 3.33x2 Pet_Lambt_Ind_Dealer Ad.indd 1 10/15/19 2:51 PM to the House of Commons. He was In his first speech in the House of the co-founder of the Lambton Pork Commons, Ferguson told the story of Producers Association and in the his riding, including the rich oil history 1950s, he was the chairman of the of the region. Lambton County Egg Producers. He also talked about his hopes for a 4578 Victoria Street From 1972 to 1976 he was a charter new, renewable energy source being member of the National Farm Products OIL SPRINGS developed in Lambton-Middlesex from Former Lambton-Middlesex MP and Marketing Council in Ottawa; and was waste. Here is a low priced home one of the “founding fathers” of supply Agriculture Minister Ralph Ferguson for you! This 2 bedrm Ferguson was an early promoter of passed away Aug. 30 management in Canada. using corn for ethanol fuel. He also home, with an open The long-time Liberal was first promoted fair payment for farmers. concept feeling, has large elected to the House of Commons And, he recognized a problem all have a common bond-the bond of rooms, new oversized deck. in March 1980 in the Pierre Trudeau which still exists today – the regional being a Canadian. Whether we were Move-in condition, close to government wrestling the seat from differences between Canada’s east and elected to represent a constituency all amenities, & low taxes. Sid Fraleigh – the local Conservative west. $ in the east or in the west, we were 269,900 MLS#20009926 Won’t last long! MP at the time. The two would fight “I am aware of the traditional elected to the Parliament of Canada. for the Lambton-Middlesex Riding differences which historically have This institution is Canada, and if we SHANAHAN REALTY INC. BROKERAGE for four elections over a span of eight developed between the east and the are to fulfill our duties as elected 7963 Egremont Road, Watford • 519.849.6783 www.shanhanrealty.com years. west as well as between individual representatives we must work for a Leo Shanahan Sales Representative Ferguson was in power with the regions, misunderstandings which common objective, and part of that Direct: 519-878-5981 • [email protected] • Fax-519.849.6683 Liberals from 1980 to 1984 including unfortunately seem to be increasing in objective is a better understanding of a two-and-a-half month stint as intensity rather than decreasing,” he our fellow Canadians and the problems agriculture minister when John Turner said. that are unique to the respective briefly formed government after the “Perhaps it is due to the nature of regions.” BUYING FOR CASH resignation of Trudeau. But Fraleigh modern day communications that we Ralph Ferguson – who is the father of GOLD, SILVER, ALL COINS - came to power in the 1984 Tory sweep are instantaneously aware of regional the current Brooke-Alvinston Mayor, MINT SETS + LOOSE COINS that brought Brian Mulroney to power. advantages and disadvantages. It Dave Ferguson – was just two weeks Ferguson returned to power in 1988 as sometimes seems we have forgotten away from his 91st birthday. WINDUP WATCHES, MILITARY a member of the opposition and served the hopes and dreams of the Fathers He’s survived by his wife, WE’RE BACK! until 1993. of Confederation as they struggled to Delores, and his five children and Ferguson served as parliamentary unite this vast and diverse land into grandchildren. Thurs Sept 17 9am-4pm secretary the Minister of State for one great nation. A celebration of Ferguson’s life Petrolia Lions Hall Small Business and Tourism from “If we are to fulfill our duties in this will be planned after COVID-19 541 Huggard St. Petrolia 1980 to 1982, Deputy Government House we must not forget that we restrictions have eased. Previously at the Petrolia Legion Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 53 yrs Exp. House calls now available Family, friends and strangers finish Lori’s ride 519-818-1805 Heather Wright The Independent

Friends of Lori Neville and hundreds of strangers across Canada finished what the Wyoming woman could not. About 200 people walked and biked down the Reece’s Corner to Wyoming Trail Wednesday night in honour of the 34 year-old who was killed while cycling on Petrolia Line Saturday morning. Neville was part of the Great Cycle Challenge Canada to raise money for childhood cancer and was completing rides around Lambton County for the cause. She was on a ride for the challenge when she was killed. Family and friends, including a large Heather Wright Photo Looking for a dentist close to home? contingent from A Village FirePlace An estimated 200 people gathered in Wyoming to honour the memory of Lori Neville, a 34 year-old mother who died while cycling to raise money Petrolia Dentistry offers dentistry for the where Neville worked, gathered at the whole family, from cleanings and exams to Lambton County building Wednesday to fight childhood cancers. Other members of the Great Cycle Challenge night, some wearing shirts saying “I Canada rode with the family in Wyoming and over 400 people across natural looking fillings, crowns, bridges & more. Ride for Lori” and travelled the trail in Canada completed a memorial ride as well Wednesday night. With convenient hours and a clean modern office, her memory. Neville’s death and invited people to to always know his Mom mattered and you’ll feel completely comfortable. The ride was lead by Neville’s wife, finish Lori’s ride on Aug. 26. Over what she did made a difference to so Natalie. Before the event took place 400 people from 10 provinces and one many people.” Dr. Mike Hoben she was trembling and admitted to territory rode 11,099.53 kilometres in People have also been showing being overwhelmed by the support her honour. support for the Neville family by Dr. Rudha Al-Rohani from her community. “Being a part of this effort was donating to her Great Cycle Challenge The ride in Wyoming was just one of inspiring,” wrote Bryck on Facebook page. Saturday, she had raise just under Dr. Rebecca Phillips hundreds across Canada. after completing his 50 km ride $1,000. Today, $12,547 has been raised Mike Bryck, from Toronto who is Wednesday. to fight childhood cancers in Neville’s 519-882-0520 also part of the challenge, heard about “I want nothing more than for Oliver name. 430 Albany Street • petroliadentistry.com 6 – The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton Thursday, September 3, 2020 Petrolia man charged with hit and run Community spirit Alex Kurial Sarnia Police say on Aug. 21 family of 24 year-old Clayton Local Journalism Initiative on Elizabeth Ave. in Sarnia, Ball of Sarnia set up a Go Fund a pickup truck struck a man. Me page identifying him as A 20 year-old Petrolia man Officers arrived and found the the victim of the hit and run. turned himself in to Sarnia victim on the ground. He was The new father is now in stable Police after a hit-and-run inves- taken to Bluewater Health with condition in a London hospital, tigation. significant injuries. where he is recovering from Noah O’Dwyer Bristol faces Sarnia Police found the truck many serious internal and exter- multiple charges including abandoned nearby. The Traffic nal injuries including a broken causing injury with a vehicle, Unit and Criminal Investigation jaw. assault with a weapon and Branch used it to identify the The ‘Help Support Clayton failure to stop at an accident. suspect. Ball And His Family’ page He was held in custody Tuesday Police have not identified had raised nearly $15,000 by pending a bail hearing. the victim, but after the crash Tuesday. Not enough school custodians says union Jenna Cocullo classrooms and “high-touch” will work perfectly. That Local Journalism Initiative areas, need to be cleaned twice everyone will wear masks, a day. socially distance, and that all A local union leader says there It takes approximately 15 staff will be there. If you don’t are not enough extra custodians minutes to clean one room, and have all those pieces working to meet enhanced cleaning 20 minutes for a washroom. together properly, and not protocols as kids are preparing “A small school has six to enough custodial time properly, to go back to school. eight classrooms, and two you could have a school more Dave Geroux, president of washrooms. So that’s your extra potent to carry that infection,” CUPE Local 4168, representing two hours already. he said. the non-teaching staff at St. “If you are trying to contain Some clerical staff are back to Clair Catholic School Board, a virus, you have to clean a work Wednesday and they have Submitted photo said the funding received by washroom after every time it not yet received a shipment of Members of the Florence IOOF had one of their best chicken dinners on the provincial government is used. All those things being personal protective equipment record, selling 310 dinners this weekend. Dinners went through a drive-thru is inadequate for the job that touched constantly per day: from the government. “We to pick up their meal. Organizers say the dinner went off without a hitch. needs to be done. door knobs, handrails, eating don’t even know if it’s going to The plan only allows for two areas. That is not enough to be enough,” he added. hours extra cleaning time per maintain the level of cleaning Despite his concerns, Geroux school per day. “If you look per school.” said he remains optimistic at the workload for custodians Some additional unspent things will open up safely. For in normal circumstances, they money from last year’s the most part, everything is The Olive Tree already don’t have time to do Education Worker Protection ready to go, and school board everything they need to,” he Fund is being rolled over into officials are taking their new said. this year’s budget for the extra obligations under COVID-19 The Ford government custodians. “The government very seriously. announced $75 million in AT HOME answer to all this is to take Staff are already familiar funding to hire more than money from the reserve funds. with the enhanced COVID-19 pick up and local delivery 900 additional custodians and But there is a reason for those cleaning protocols from purchase cleaning supplies for funds, like capital projects and working throughout the We will still stock your favourite schools. St. Clair Catholic will future obligations. We will still summer. Provincially mandated brands and your “NOW” loyalty receive $216,050. have to find those monies in health and safety training is also cards will be honoured. The government funding was the future because we still have scheduled during the first week enough to hire 5.5 additional those obligations to pay for.” of school. NEW Phone Number custodians for all Catholic Geroux said the issue is not “I feel cautious. We’re schools across Chatham-Kent unique to his school board, but going to do our absolute best and Lambton. rather it is being felt province- and I am optimistic that we 519-464-3879 Under normal circumstances, wide. can do it safely, but there is classrooms are to be cleaned “When you look at the a real possibility of seeing a once a day, and washrooms provincial government plan, it resurgence,” he said. several times a day. Under is premised on the assumption the new enhanced protocols, that every piece of the plan - The Chatham Voice St. Clair’s pool and halls will remain closed until October we no longer have a storefront location Alex Kurial their usual duties. The issue Stage 3. Council will now talk Local Journalism Initiative will be revisited at the Oct. 5 with museum workers and council meeting. make a reopening decision at Community halls in St. St. Clair residents will also the next meeting on Tuesday, Clair Township will remain have to wait until at least next Sept. 8. closed for at least another month to use the pool at the If St. Clair’s museums do month following consultation Mooretown Sports Complex. reopen they will join a number with volunteers who run the The pool is scheduled to of other Lambton County buildings. open on Oct. 19 with several museums scheduled to open “The volunteers have restrictions. This includes soon. The Lambton Heritage expressed they do not want limited change room time, no Museum will be the first of the responsibility that comes spectators aside from a parent/ these on Sept. 2. The Oil with opening, such as added guardian assisting their child Museum of Canada will open cleaning and policing their with lessons, COVID screening, on Sept. 9, with the Judith users and guests to ensure they contact tracing, and mandatory & Norman Alix Art Gallery are safe and acting according masks in all areas aside from following on Oct. 2. The to COVID-19 regulations,” the pool deck and in the water. Lambton County Archives also says Director of Community Township residents may see open by appointment on Sept. Services Kendall Lindsay in some recreation return this 9. a letter to council during their month though in the form of Various safety measures will August meeting. museums. be in place at all museums, and The alternative would be to In July, council decided to include altered hours, timed have township staff perform hold off on opening the Moore ticket entry, contact tracing and the enhanced safety measures. and Sombra Museums until mask use where required by Junnee 2 277 to t oO cOt c10t 10SatuSrdaatuy rmdaoryn imngosrnings Lindsay says this falls outside Lambton County had reached law. Thursday, September 3, 2020 The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton – 7

‘Absolutely outrageous behavior’ gets just two months in jail Help support your local Legion Alex Kurial Gagliardi fought off the officer and and ran toward the street. He was cut Local Journalism Initiative ran back to his car to lock himself in. off by one officer. When he ran back Several officers had now arrived on toward the garage the officer’s partner A series of incidents spanning more scene. Gagliardi refused to unlock the made the arrest. than two years caught up to Alesandro doors until officers said they would “The facts give rise to concern Gagliardi in Sarnia court. break the windows. When he did open about public safety in relation to Mr. Oil Springs Stunt driving, resisting arrest and the door, he started fighting and cling- Gagliardi’s conduct toward motor ve- assault were just some of the charges ing to the inside of the car when offi- hicles, his conduct toward police, and Br#535 Gagliardi, 49, plead guilty to on Aug. cers attempted to get him out. Officers his conduct toward his partner. Lack PROCEEDS TO GO TOWARDS BUILDING UPGRADES 25, in what Justice Deborah Austin were finally able to remove Gagliardi of adherence to court orders as well,” Contact any Legion member with questions | Thank you for your support. called “absolutely outrageous behav- and arrest him. says Austin. ior.” 2020 saw more serious incidents. Despite Gagliardi’s many pleas, However a joint submission from On July 24, Gagliardi and the same Crown attorney Melanie Nancekievill LOOKING FOR Crown and defense attorneys resulted woman got into an argument at a and defense lawyer James Guggis- in much less punishment time than the Sarnia home. The fight between the berg settled on a joint position of just judge believed the crimes deserved. common law couple started inside two months in jail. With time served, Hall RentalFOR YOUR NEXT MEETING? The charges date back to May 2018. but spilled onto the front lawn. When Gagliardi only had three days re- VIDEO KITCHEN While already under a bail condition the woman tried to leave Gagliardi maining behind bars. Gagliardi also PROJECTION not to drive, Gagliardi was clocked by grabbed her hair and threw her to the received a $2,000 fine and license 10’ SCREEN FACILITIES an OPP officer at 10:30 am travelling ground. He then tried to drag her inside suspension for the vehicle offenses. 146 km/h in an 80 km/h zone along the garage. In “deciding to reluctantly respect FREE CAPACITY Kimball Rd. A pair of witnesses saw the fight and the joint submission,” Austin acknow- For Inquiries call: WIFI 350 PEOPLE The officer made a traffic stop. As intervened, despite Gagliardi yell- ledged that the woman wouldn’t testify 595 MAIN ST., WYOMING 519-845-3571 he approached the car a woman had ing at them to get off his property. against Gagliardi, and that he had moved into the driver’s seat and said They helped the woman away and some health concerns. www.plympton-wyomingfair.com she had been the one driving. Gagliardi phoned police. Officers arrived to find “In my view the sentence that would was seen in the backseat with the Gagliardi hiding in a bedroom closet, ordinarily flow for this combination of woman’s teenage daughter. The officer and he was arrested. offenses would certainly be… much led the woman to his cruiser while Two weeks later Gagliardi was seen higher and much longer than the joint Gagliardi yelled at her not to answer outside the woman’s house late at submission,” Austin says. “His time in any questions. night. He had been ordered to stay custody… is something that will hope- NEEDS As the officer and woman began talk- away from her. When police arrived fully have some kind of helpful and ing Gagliardi became upset and exited Gagliardi was gone, but his vehicle stabilizing impact.” the vehicle. He clenched his fists and was there. Gagliardi is on probation for the YOUR advanced on the pair despite orders When Sarnia Police went to next 18 months. He can’t contact the to stop. When Gagliardi got closer Gagliardi’s residence they found him woman, must take counselling for an- HELP! the officer struck Gagliardi in the mid in the driveway and told him he was ger management and substance abuse, Jam • Manwich • Soda Crackers • Small section with his knee, dropping him to under arrest. Gagliardi swore at the of- provide a DNA sample, and is banned Soups • All Canned Veggies • Canned the ground. ficers shouting “I’m not under arrest” from having weapons for 10 years. Potatoes • Side Kicks • Canned Fruit Large And Small • Mixed Canned Meats • Instant Potatoes • Dry Pastas • Rice • Canned Pasta • Cake, Cookie And Muffin Sarnia man believe break-ins part of a treasure hunt Mixes • Cookies • Pancake Mix & Syrup • in three days. treasure hunt to find the contents of a Baking Supplies • Jello Mix • Mr Noodles Two year sentence The first occurred late on Apr. 24 family will during this time period. • Juice Crystals • Household Cleaning when Lefaive broke into the One Tooth “That’s how messed up his thinking Supplies • Laundry Pods / Detergent Etc will be spent in facility clothing store on Front St. by smashing was while he was going through these • Lunch Snack, Snack Foods to help with mental the front door with a stone. He stole charges that are before the court,” Any items not listed are accepted, two t-shirts before being startled by says Craig. “He’s advised me that he’s if you use it in your home our a car outside and fleeing out the back happy he got caught and that he wants health issues door. to get cleaned up.” clients will use it in theirs Heather Wright The same night an officer on patrol “The damage that I did, I apologize The Independent found the door of the Wine Well on and it won’t happen again. It will never Trudeau Dr. smashed apart. happen again with me, it’s ridiculous,” David Lefaive listened as the clerk The officer entered and found a rock says Lefaive. in Sarnia court read a litany of eleven inside, along with rummaged items and A joint position of two years less a charges to which he plead guilty. a kicked in office door. While investi- day was decided on for all of Lefaive’s The charges, including five break and gating the surrounding area the officer crimes. enters, were laid in a five month span. entered a TD Bank. He found it had no Craig asked that he spend his remain- In December 2019, police received power because someone tampered with ing time at the St. Lawrence Valley a call of a man jumping on cars at the breaker box above the ATM. Correctional and Treatment Centre Progressive Auto Sales on Exmouth St. Surveillance footage from the bank in Brockville so he can access drug The man then went next door to A&W showed a man entered the ATM area addiction and mental health programs. and smashed the front window in with of the bank and slept for about 20 min- Justice Krista Leszczynski agreed . a tire iron. utes. At 1 am he woke up and suddenly “It’s clear that your substance abuse When officers arrived they found climbed up the ATM to destroy the has significantly contributed to your Beautiful location, quality Lefaive exiting the back door and ar- breaker box. The officer recognized the criminal conduct and has had a signifi- coffee and amazing staff. rested him. man as Lefaive. cant impact on your disordered think- The Cottage Petrolia Coffee He had destroyed three order termin- The same man was seen on surveil- ing at the time that you were commit- Shop offers a vast array of als and another computer monitor lance at One Tooth and the Wine Well. ting these offenses,” says Leszczynski. scrumptious treats including while inside. The damage totalled The spree finally came to and end “Unless you receive treatment sir, sandwiches, salads, daily more than $5,000. two days later. you can expect that these types of soups and baked goods. Lefaive’s next target was the Sarnia Lefaive broke into the Mufflerman on consequences are going to follow. It’s Library at the end of February. Lefaive Exmouth St. at 4:30 am and found the imperative that you take that counsel- Located across from keys to a truck. He took off in the Ford ling and that you take it seriously.” Victoria Park in downtown removed a computer stick from the Petrolia. Stop in to back of a computer. He covered his Ranger, but a witness already called With time served, Lefaive has just police. under 18 months left to spend in jail. enjoy amazing lattes, face and attempted to avoid cameras as cappuccinos and java! he left the library. Officers found the truck a short After release he will be on probation Police were at the library the next distance away on Alexander St. with for two years. 4190 Petrolia Line Lefaive standing in the driveway. He He must stay away from all of the day reviewing the surveillance foot- Petrolia age when Lefaive came back. He was was arrested on the several outstanding places he broke into, pay restitution to Located across from quickly arrested for the theft, and warrants from two nights before. several of the businesses, and continue the VPP theatre for failing to attend court three days Defense lawyer Elizabeth Craig says counselling for mental health and earlier. Lefaive is dealing with serious mental substance abuse. 226-738-0881 Lefaive’s spree hit its climax at the health and substance abuse issues. She He’s also banned from having Monday - Saturday end of April with four break and enters says her client believed he was on a weapons for 10 years. 9:00am - 3:00pm 8 – The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton Thursday, September 3, 2020 $3.6M of $120M Catholic budget spent on COVID-19 Wyoming Lions Alex Kurial 400 staff days lost. Janssens expressed surprise that the Local Journalism Initiative The board will be hiring 10 new board would not be receiving any 554 Main Street elementary school teachers at a total provincial money to assist with virtual Reception Hall Rentals The St. Clair Catholic District School of around $800,000. New high school class. This means the $268,000 must Weddings Board has approved a $120 million teachers are also being considered with be taken entirely from the contingency Anniversaries budget for the upcoming school year. $50,000 has also been set aside in case fund. Funerals But all talk at the Aug. 25 board retired teachers need to be called upon A health promotion officer is being Business Meetings Up to 150 seating capacity meeting was about the additional $3.6 to work. hired at an estimated $223,000 to help Fully licensed by AGCO million dedicated to COVID-19 costs. Several new custodians will also with increased mental health issues Bookings and information With a projected 8,750 students be brought on board to assist with due to the pandemic. TM call: (519) 845 0011 or 845 3333 returning to St. Clair Catholic schools enhanced cleaning protocols at a Technology is a big focus especially this year, preparations are on to cost of $216,000. Additional special for virtual class. ensure a safe experience. To help education workers should run $84,000. Webcams to assist with online cover increased costs the school board The need for additional supervision learning and 50 mobile hotspots for received $787,000 from the provincial will cost about $431,000, with students with poor internet at home government in pandemic funding. The $395,000 of this going to elementary will cost $10,000 each. ‘ board will pull another $1.3 million schools. The board is also trying to order from the board’s own contingency Every elementary school will have more laptops and other devices for funds, while the remaining $1.5 an extra adult supervisor working up students and teachers, but face lengthy million will be taken out of the board’s to six hours a day watching kids at delivery times. Total tech costs will be surplus stock. lunch, recess, and in the isolation room around $62,000. Treasurer Amy Janssens gave a if necessary. The board’s nine largest Janssens says so far parents are detailed breakdown of anticipated elementary schools will have two new indicating most kids will return to COVID costs saying maybe needed. supervisors. school but there was a noticeable drop “The board does not assume that Cleaning supplies are another major in the expected return rate of junior COVID-19 or the associated costs expense. Janssens estimated it will cost kindergarten students though. of COVID-19 will disappear during $652,000 to buy hand soap, sanitizer, The board is also looking for rural 2021,” says Janssens. “We consider disinfectants, and other cleaning and remote school funding from the this a best case scenario, and advise products for the year. Personal province for the local high schools. the board additional costs are likely protective equipment costs will run Nearly half the total St. Clair necessary as planning continues.” around $263,000. Catholic secondary students are For now the board has estimated The board hired a full-time principal, considered rural, and almost 80 per they’ll spend an additional $3.3 million secretary and administrative team cent take the bus to school. If the bid in 2020-21. dedicated to online learning for this is successful both schools will be The largest chunk - $1.4 million – year’s online classes. The group will able to share in the fund’s total pot of Take 20 minutes to make learning will go toward staff costs. Janssens address any needs of at-home students. $245,439. together part of your everyday. says they are planning for a possible This team would cost $268,000. - The Independent of Petrolia Ontario teachers say province have not made schools safe Alastair Sharp workers not be able to expect at least as well as parents and others. Play with your food and Local Journalism Initiative the same standards and precautionary “The anxiety Ontarians are feeling write words with alphabet measures as have been put in place in around reopening schools is directly cereal and soup. Unions representing Ontario’s school stores, offices, and other spaces across related to the government’s lack teachers will each file a complaint the province?” he said. of leadership and their haphazard, with the province’s labour relations Premier Doug Ford, asked about the incomplete planning,” says OECTA tribunal over what they say is the Ford legal move, portrayed his government President Liz Stuart. “The Premier government’s failure to take “every as having given the unions everything and the Minister of Education say reasonable precaution” to protect they sought. they will do everything possible to See all Take 20 learning activities at education workers with its back-to- “You wanted ventilation, we got make sure schools are safe. All we are www.FamilyLiteracyDay.ca school plan. ventilation. You wanted more money asking is that they make an honest, The escalation of their dispute with for teachers, we got more money for exhaustive effort to follow through on the government comes after a meeting the teachers, we went out and got the this promise.” last week between Labour Minister reserves,” he said at a news conference “The accusation that teachers and Monte McNaughton (Lambton-Kent- Monday, referring to the government education workers are not willing NOTICE OF THE PASSING Middlesex MPP) and the heads of allowing school boards to dip into their to step up and get back to schools is OF A HERITAGE DESIGNATION REPEAL BY-LAW the four unions representing 190,000 contingency funds to pay for safety preposterous and insulting,” OSSTF “THE BLANCHE HOUSE” teachers and education workers in measures, and to a federal government president Harvey Bischof said. “No TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Town of Petrolia passed public English-language elementary top up announced last week. worker in the province of Ontario By-Law No. 37-2020 on the 10th day of August, 2020, pursuant and secondary schools, Catholic to the provisions of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, “I don’t want to fight with you.” should be expected to sacrifice their c.0.18 as amended. schools and French-language schools He said the teachers unions were health and safety, especially when across the province. at odds with individual teachers, and there are such obvious measures THE BY-LAW RESCINDS the Town of Petrolia’s by-law 57 of 2002 designating the Blanche House, as being of architectural The unions asked for assurances contrasted their complaints with the the government could be taking to and historical value or interest. Located at 4281 Discovery Line that class sizes would be capped at heroic efforts of health care and other reduce the risk and prevent potential in the Petrolia Discovery 20 students and that no one attending frontline workers. tragedies.” THE KEY GRAPHIC shows more particularly the subject school in-person comes into contact “At the peak of this, and it was McNaughton, the labour minister, property with more than 50 people, as well as running rampant, PSWs (personal said he would ensure that workers PURPOSE AND EFFECT OF THE REPEAL adherence to ventilation standards and support workers) walked into long- are safe from workplace hazards, The purpose of By-Law 37 of 2020 is to repeal By-Law 57 of the ability for school boards to delay term care homes like firefighters including COVID-19, and that his 2002 which was adopted to designate the subject property as a reopening until it is safe to do so. walking into a burning building, and ministry has been in touch with every property of cultural heritage value and interest. While secondary schools are largely they don’t say a word, they’re heroes,” school board in the province and is EXPLANATION OF THE REPEAL being restricted to 15-student classes Council approved the request of the Petrolia Heritage Advisory Ford said. “The frontline health care training both school boards and staff Committee to repeal on June 22, 2020 on the basis that the conducted part-time, elementary workers are heroes, the doctors are on how to be safe at school. Blanche House has fallen into a state of disrepair, due to schools will retain their pre-pandemic heroes, how about the grocery store “This is no different than our work previous years of neglect, with the current Petrolia Discovery Board of Directors not able to expense the repair, with an sizes, in many cases that means rooms clerks at the peak of this checking out with employers of the millions of opportunity arisen for a third party to complete salvage at no with 30 students seated less than two hundreds and hundreds of people. Ontario workers who remained on cost. metres apart. “Then we create the safest the job during the pandemic, as well Please note there is no appeal to this by-law. This decision They say the demands are in line environment we possibly can for as those who have since returned to of the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Petrolia is with measures put in place in other everyone and the teachers’ unions just work,” he said in a statement. final. workplaces and public spaces in want to fight,” he said. “They want to “In every case, including construction Dated at the Town of Petrolia this 26th day of August, 2020 Ontario. fight with everyone. I don’t want to sites, supermarkets, retailers, “Smaller class sizes would help make fight with you, I want the cooperation manufacturing and more, workers, Mandi Pearson schools safer,” Sam Hammond, the like every single person in this country industry, labour and government Clerk Town of Petrolia president of the Elementary Teachers’ has been cooperating, except the worked together to create safe 411 Greenfield Street Federation of Ontario (ETFO), said in teachers unions.” workplaces,” he added. “That spirit of PETROLIA, Ontario a joint statement with the other unions. The unions say they are reflecting the cooperation was effective.” N0N 1R0 “Should teachers and education widespread concerns of their members Source: National Observer Thursday, September 3, 2020 The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton – 9 Sports Raaymakers, Lovegrove win Kingswell club championship Petrolia’s Kingswell Glen Golf Course held its first club championship last weekend since the sale of the club earlier this year. Corey Raaymakers had a two-day score of 148 to capture the men’s title by two shots over Jason Lovegrove. Jeff Simpson was third, four shots off the pace. Shirley Lovegrove’s total of 181 took the ladies crown by a comfortable margin. Heather Hewitt was second and Anita Podolinsky placed third. About 80 golfers took part in the SUBMITTED PHOTOS event. The next event on the docket Kingswell Glen’s Director of Golf, Travis Mcmurphy, presents Shirley is the Ryder Cup-style Kingswell Cup Lovegrove and Corey Raaymakers with the club championship trophies. scheduled for the weekend of Sept. 12 and 13. Petrolia’s Whiteye wins academic award in Florida Petrolia product Abby Whiteye is An athlete must have a grade point Tournament in March and were headed one of 41 recipients of the Division average of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale to for the NCAA Division 2 Regional 2 Athletic Directors Academic qualify. Tournament in Tennessee when the Achievement Award at Eckerd College Whiteye, a Northern grad, averaged season was cancelled due to the in Florida. 11.1 points and 5.3 rebounds this past COVID-19 pandemic. The award recognizes the academic season. Eckerd had a 24-5 record This coming campaign will be accomplishments of student-athletes at overall. Whiteye’s senior season at the St. the Division II level. They had won the Sunshine State Petersburg school. MP Marilyn Gladu Fryfogle shines in Colorado Eagles intrasquad game Sarnia-Lambton Brayden Fryfogle is making an signed with the Eagles of the USPHL The Eagles, based about an hour We Are Here To Serve You immediate impact with his new team. in June. north of Denver, open their regular The 17-year-old from Wyoming was Last season, Brayden played “AAA” season Sept. 18. Northern Colorado 1000 Finch Drive, named the second star of the Northern hockey with the Komoka-based Elgin- is coached by Sarnia’s Steve Haddon. Sarnia, Ontario Colorado Eagles Black and White Middlesex Chiefs, while Bayly was The Lambton Junior Sting grad played N7S 6G5 game. a member of the GOJHL’s Strathroy a handful of games with the Petrolia Brayden and his older brother Bayly Rockets. Squires during the 2005-06 campaign. 519-383-6600 Oil Springs woman gets top job at North Bay curling club [email protected] Stacey Dobbin has taken over the I am looking forward to leading an a job,” she added. The LCCVI grad www.mpmarilyngladu.ca top position at the North Bay Granite amazing team into a new era,” she had previously been the office manager Curling Club. posted on social media following the at the club for the past two years. The Oil Springs native has been announcement. Recognizing the upcoming season named the new general manager at the “Working with our team, our could be challenging due to COVID-19 northern Ontario facility. members, our volunteers, and this restrictions, Dobbin is excited about “I have super huge shoes to fill, but sport is way too much fun to be called the new opportunity. HAVE YOU McCormick played a variety of sports but was drawn to curling HEARD? Steve McGrail He made six appearances For The Independent in the Ontario Men’s Curling Championships and EDITOR’S NOTE: This is finished as Runner Up in At Lambton Audiology Associates, we believe that providing one of a series of stories on 2003. exceptional audiological care should be the rule, not the athletes from the region. In 2012, McCormick, exception. That’s why we work extra hard to provide the highest Heath McCormick was having dual citizenship, was level of patient care and customer support in our community. born in 1976 in Lansing, the US Men’s Champion After all, We’re here to help YOU hear better! ® Michigan but was raised and represented USA at the in Brigden and attended World Championships in OUR SERVICES Brigden Public School Basel, Switzerland. • Hearing assessments for all ages • Home visits • Hearing aid batteries • Convenient Saturday appointments before attending LCCVI. Representing USA for and accessories • Caring for Sarnia- He enjoyed playing curling provided him the • Assistive listening devices Lambton since 1988 a variety of sports but opportunity to be part of • Tinnitus treatment program • Balance Assessment gravitated towards the the United States High • Hearing help classes and Rehabilitation curling rink. McCormick Performance Program from was part of the curling 2015-2018. PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK CALL US TODAY TO BOOK team at high school and also He played in the 2014 and Health McCormick at the US Olympic Trials YOUR APPOINTMENT! when he attended University 2018 US Olympic Trials and Western Ontario Kings was runner up in 2018. has won multiple World wife Natalie and has two College. Twice McCormick was Curling Tour Event children, Astrid and Hazel. In 1996, McCormick crowned Continental Cup SARNIA PETROLIA Championships. He works at McCormick was the Ontario Junior of Curling Champion 519-542-0569 226-738-0401 Heath is the son of Wayne Insurance Brokers Ltd. in Curling Champion and in (Tournaments were held in 102-1433 London Rd. 4-4119 Petrolia Line and Elsbeth and is brother to Brigden and enjoys golfing 2004 he was a member Las Vegas and Penticton, Ian and Blyth. He currently and curling and staying Sarnia, ON Petrolia, ON of the Ontario Mixed BC). lives in Sarnia with his active with his family. www.lambtonaudiology.com Championship team. Over the years McCormick 10 – The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton Thursday, September 3, 2020

Word Classifieds: $10 plus tax for up to 40 words Classified Deadline: Stop in at the office 9a-5p Mon-Fri Monday @ 12 noon 4156 Petrolia Line – Call 226-738-0728 Classifieds or email: [email protected] In Memory Obituary Obituary Obituary

- IN MEMORY - TAYLOR FERGUSON Trevor K. Ralph Peacefully on August 26th, The family of Hon. Ralph Hugh 2020; Trevor K. Taylor of Brooke- Duncan Ferguson regret to September 2, 2014 Alvinston passed away at the announce his passing on August age of 66. Survived by his 30, 2020 at Watford Quality Care. Sadly missed along life’s way beloved partner and best friend Beloved husband of Dolores Roberta Blackburn, loving (Garrod). Ralph will be sadly Lovingly remembered every day daughters Jennifer (the late missed by his son Doug, his No longer in our lives to share Darryl) Weeks and Rebecca (Max wife Laurie Lashbrook and their But in our hearts you’re always there. Davies). Proud grandpa of Chloe children Sarah McCabe (Jamie), and Nile Weeks and of Holly, Duncan and Erika; son David, With love from Don Moore Jack and Daniel Davies. Also his wife Gabrielle and their son Jan, Leigh, Laurie & Rob, and their families survived by extended family Nichol; daughter Susan McCaw, Colin and Margaret Blackburn her husband George and their of Abbotsford, B.C. Predeceased children Scotty and Jenna; year but winning re-election in SMITH by his parents Jim (1991) and and son John and his children 1988. His “Compare the Share” In Memory Stephen David Elsie (1997) Taylor. At Trevor’s Matthew and Lauren. Proud study was a popular manifesto request, all arrangements are great-grandfather to Mary and for farmers and consumers, On Wednesday, August 19th, James McCabe. Predeceased by 2020, Stephen David Smith, private. Arrangements entrusted comparing prices at the farm to In memory of our dear wife, mom, grandmother and great grandmother to DENNING’S OF FOREST, his brothers Donald, Kenneth those at the processing and retail loving husband and father of and Alex, and sisters Mary two, passed way at the age of 53 www.forestfuneralhome.com. level. A highlight of Ralph’s time in Gilroy and Jean Lehrbass. Also Ottawa was accompanying Prime at Windsor Regional Hospital - predeceased by his daughter-in- Bernice Hunter Ouellette Campus. Stephen was Minister Pierre Trudeau on a trade who passed away August 31, 1993 Notice law Anne (McColl). Born in Mosa mission to several Asian countries born on November 13th, 1966 Township in 1929 to parents in Sarnia to David and Barbara in 1983. Ralph retired in 1993 but ADVERTISING POLICY - The Annie (MacDonald) (1978) continued to take on projects (Thomson) Smith. Dear brother and Hugh Ferguson (1966), he In our home she is fondly remembered, and brother-in-law of Sandra Krall publisher of this newspaper, The dear to him. His interest in local Sweet memories cling to her names. Independent of Petrolia and Cen- farmed most of his life in Brooke history and pride in his Scottish (Jim), Jamie Smith (Mary Ellen), Township; first on Petrolia Line Those who loved her in life, Michael Handsor (Donna) and tral Lambton, reserves the right to roots resulted in a film, The Early clarify or refuse any advertisement East, and later moved to his Scot Pioneers of Lambton and Sincerely still love her in death just the same. Blaine Handsor (Lisa). Loved son- based on its sole discretion. The maternal grandparents’ home in-law of Jim Handsor (Deb Duke) West Middlesex, made primarily Forever in Our Thoughts. publisher reserves the right to re- on Old Walnut Road. He was for use in local schools. He also and Linda Handsor. Stephen is a ject, discontinue or omit any adver- a progressive farmer, building Missed by Dick Hunter and Family proud graduate of Wilfrid Laurier led a community cancer survey tisement without notice or penalty his operation over the years to and delved into the problems University. On August 21st, 1993, to either party. Liability for errors include cash crops, eggs, pork, he married Tina Marie Handsor. of impurities in imported foods. or non-insertion is limited to the and beef. In early years, Ralph was Over the years he planted Together, they raised two sons amount paid for the cost of space active in many farm organizations Card of Thanks Sebastian and Ethan. Stephen was hundreds of trees on the family occupied by the error. Claims of er- from Junior Farmers and various farm. Ralph was a former elder a member of Maple City Country rors must be made prior to the next marketing boards to the Egg Club for 19 years. To say he was an publication date. in Guthrie Presbyterian Church, Producers. From 1972 to 1976 Alvinston, a former Mason and avid golfer is an understatement. he was a charter member of the A private family service was Rotarian. He was inducted Thank You National Farm Products Marketing into the Ontario, Middlesex, held at the Badder Funeral Wanted to Buy Council in Ottawa; and was one of The family of the late Jeannette Bourque of Home & Reception Centre. and Lambton Agriculture Halls the “founding fathers” of supply of Fame. Due to COVID-19, a Petrolia extend a heartfelt thanks for the many A Celebration of Life will be WANTED TO BUY - ANYTHING OLD including signs, bottles, can- management in Canada. Ralph private burial will take place. kind offerings of condolence and donations. The organized for a later date. If worked with other farmers to desired, donations may be made ning jars, jewelery, tins, paper A celebration of Ralph’s life supports offered to mom and our family over items, pottery, old lighters, old promote clean burning ethanol- will be arranged at a later date. to Heart & Stroke Foundation blended fuels and, espousing that the past few years have been appreciated. The of Ontario. Online donations razors, rustic pieces, etc. Single Memorial contributions can be items to entire estates. CALL cause, was elected as the Liberal made to the Alzheimer Society of compassionate care from Bluewater Health, Dr. and condolences may be left at MP for Lambton-Middlesex www.badderfuneralhome.com CHAD 519-639-9102. Canada, London Health Sciences Crombeen, and the Palliative Care Team allowed in 1980. He held positions as Foundation - Transplant Unit, our mother to know peace and feel the love of Deputy Whip, and Parliamentary or any charity of your choice. family at her side. We are grateful to Dr. Susan Secretary to the Ministers of Small Arrangements entrusted to Mather for her years of gentle care to mom and Business and Finance. He became DENNING’S OF WATFORD (519 DEADLINEfor all classied ads is Minister of Agriculture briefly in 876-2218). Share a memory at to the entire team at Lambton Meadowview Monday at 12 noon 1984, losing the election of that www.watfordfuneralhome.com View who lovingly supported and cared for her. for the paper that prints and distributes Wed-Thurs You ALL made a difference and we thank you.

Notice August 23 - August 30, 2020 Death NoticesThis information is provided as a community service. AWALK-IT for Parkinson’s For detailed information, please refer to the funeral home website listing. - Despite COVID-19, the needs of people living with Parkinson’s have SUNDAY, AUGUST 23 TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 COULL, Corinne not disappeared. This year “WALK-IT Age 76, of Sarnia for Parkinson’s” has become “WALK BRUNTON, John LeBLANC, Linda InLocal events LAMBTO that have been cancelled or postponedN because of the Age 70, of Sarnia Age 72, of Sarnia McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home THE BLOCK for Parkinson’s”. You coronavirus outbreak. can register online, take part as an Smith Funeral Home Smith Funeral Home CORRY, Joyce individual or a team, collect cash, CANCELLED Events BARTSCH, Brigitte ANTOINE, Nina Age 84, of Sarnia cheque and online donations and Age 78, of Forest Age 74, of Sarnia Smith Funeral Home then walk on September 12th or DATE LOCATION EVENT Gilpin Funeral Home D.J. Robb Funeral Home 13th around your own community Sept Petrolia Petrolia Enniskillen Fall Fair FRIDAY, AUGUST 29 block 4-6 MONDAY, AUGUST 24 BATTLE, Mary HARRISON, Graydon Age 77, of Sarnia Sept 5 Lambton Annual Lambton County Plowing Match Age 86, of Sarnia ZELASKO, Ann Marie D.J. Robb Funeral Home Smith Funeral Home Sept Petrolia Southwest Ontario Tractor Pullers Association Petrolia Pull Age 71, of Sarnia Notice Smith Funeral Home McCAFFREY, Kathleen SATURDAY, AUGUST 30 11 Age 81, of Sarnia McNEIL, Marvin “Moe” McKAY, Donald TERRY FOX RUN - This year, the Sept Wyoming 2020 Plympton Wyoming Fall Fair McCormack Funeral Home 18-20 Age 80, of Sarnia Age 64, of Sarnia Run’s theme is “One Day. Your Way.” Smith Funeral Home POSTIL, Wilfred Smith Funeral Home Due to public health concerns, we Sept Forest 150th Forest Fall Fair Age 85, of Point Edward will participate in spirit, not in per- 25-27 SCACCIA, Mario D.J. Robb Funeral Home WELCH, Bonnie Jean son this year. On Sunday Septem- Age 80, of Sarnia Age 66, of Sarnia ber 20th, we ask that you continue Oct Alvinston Brooke-Alvinston Watford 2020 Fall Fair McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home TAIT, Norma Steadman Brothers Funeral Chapel to support cancer research by par- 2-4 Age 91, of Sarnia McCRIE, William Smith Funeral Home Van DINTHER-JACKSON, ticipating in and fundraising for your Oct Brigden Brigden 2020 Fall Fair Age 90, of Sarnia Leola Virtual Run. We leave it up to you to 9-12 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26 choose how to celebrate your Terry Smith Funeral Home Age 69, of Sarnia Fox effort – walk, run, dance, hike – Dec Watford 2020-2021 Watford Regional Peewee Silverstick Tournament WHITELY, Lawrence TAYLOR, Trevor Smith Funeral Home on a favourite route and with your 10-20 Silverstick.org Age 91, of Sarnia Age 66, of Brooke-Alvinson TRUMBLE, Reta favourite people. Most importantly, Dec Alvinston 2020-2021 Alvinston Regional Atom Silverstick Tournament Smith Funeral Home Denning’s of Forest Age 87, of Sarnia we need you to honour the day by 27-30 Silverstick.org D.J. Robb Funeral Home fundraising for cancer research. O’HAGAN, Joseph THURSDAY, AUGUST 27 please visit terryfox.org to donate. Dec Petrolia 2020-2021 Petrolia Regional Midget Silverstick Tournament Age 96, of Sarnia SHAWNOO, Franklin FERGUSON, Ralph 27-30 Silverstick.org McCormack Funeral Home Age 91, of Brooke Township Age 52, of Kettle Point Denning’s of Watford Jan Forest 2020-2021 Forest International Silverstick Tournament. Atom, Denning’s of Forest 8-24 Peeww, Batam, Midget Silverstick.org Thursday, September 3, 2020 The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton – 11

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PLEASE CALL AHEAD TO CONFIRM DATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE COVID-19 Events are listed FREE for non-profit groups in Petrolia and Lambton County (space permitting). SOCIAL DISTANCING To be included in this listing email the requiredof informationevents to [email protected] Subject: FREE EVENT LISTING. MAINTAIN A DISTANCE OF AT LEAST 6 FEET Upcoming Events (2 METERS) FROM START OTHERS & remember to DATE TIME LOCATION EVENT CONTACT INFO Sept 3 6-8pm Petrolia Petrolia Lions Meat Raffle at Haywood’s Tap & Grill 519-882-8728 WEAR YOUR MASK! Sept Sarnia Sarnia Rib & Craft Beer Fest at Hiawatha Horse Park. Live Music, 4-6 Craft Beer & Food. Friday 4-11pm, Saturday 12noon -11pm, Sunday 12noon - 7pm Sept 5 7:30- Petrolia Petrolia Farmers’ Market directly behind the Petrolia Library 12noon Sept 5 noon- Petrolia Live Music at the Crabby Joe’s Beer Garden featuring Rock Ridje, 11pm Brad Holbrough, Colt & Dave, Mike Gallant and Demi Krall. Walk-in crowd only. Business & Service Directory Sept 5 2pm Forest Forest Legion Weekly Meat Raffle. Doors Open at 2pm. Raffle starts at 3:30pm. 519-786-5357 Sept 8 7pm Petrolia LCDS Annual General Meeting online Bluejeans. Link on Social Media Sept 9 6:30pm Watford Watford Legion General Meeting 519-876-2360 PRO-TAX Professional INCOME TAX SERVICES Sept 6-8pm Petrolia Petrolia Lions Meat Raffle at Haywood’s Tap & Grill 10 Sept 7pm Lambton Branch of Ontario Ancestors “Using Social Media for 10 Genealogy” with Ben Dawson The Registration Link 519-882-2966 - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUvfuusqD8jHtVgLOYr 3927 Petrolia LineAppointment rbOxnJiun6ZjG1Fh [email protected] Only ...... Sept 6pm Watford Watford Legion Meat Raffle 519-876-2360 Joanne Jamieson Pick up & Delivery 11 (Pro-Tax is a division of Teogotha Inc.) Available Sept 7:30- Petrolia Petrolia Farmers’ Market directly behind the Petrolia Library www.protaxpetrolia.com 12 12noon Sept 9a - Oil Springs Oil Springs Legion Bottle Drive. All proceeds t go towards building 12 12noon upgrades. Sept 2pm Forest Forest Legion Weekly Meat Raffle. Doors Open at 2pm. Raffle starts 12 at 3:30pm. 519-786-5357 Sept 5 - Watford Watford Rotary ‘s 18th Annual Fish Fry at Watford Centennial 12 7:30p Hall. Advanced tickets only. $20 per person. Drive -thru take out. Pickerel, French Fries/Onion Rings, Coleslaw. Tickets Available at Watford Home Hardware or any Rotarian. Sept 8-11pm Petrolia Live Music at the Crabby Joe’s Beer Garden featuring Sarah Smith. 12 Walk-in Crowd only. Sept 1-3pm Lambton The Sacred Heart Food Bank will be collecting non-perishable 13 food and personal hygiene items from residents living between Bickford Line and Bentpath Line (St. Clair Parkway to Kimball Road). Leave on your porch or in driveway before 1 pm. For more info Frank: 519 677-5428 Claudette: 519 677-5609. Sept 6-8pm Petrolia Petrolia Lions Meat Raffle at Haywood’s Tap & Grill 17 Sept 6pm Watford Watford Legion Meat Raffle 519-876-2360 18 Sept 7:30- Petrolia Petrolia Farmers’ Market directly behind the Petrolia Library 19 12noon Christ Church Anglican St. Andrew’s Sept 2pm Forest Forest Legion Weekly Meat Raffle. Doors Open at 2pm. Raffle starts 414 Oil Street, Petrolia 19 at 3:30pm. 519-786-5357 All worship services in the Prebyterian Church Sept 4-7pm Petrolia LCDS & Petrolia Lions 3rd Annual Beer & Wing Night. $15 each at 416 Queen Street, Petrolia 19 the Lions Hall Petrolia. Take out Available. Live Music by Demi Krall. Anglican Diocese of Huron are suspended until further notice. (Behind the Post Office) Sept 4:30-7p Wyoming Plympton & Wyoming Agricultural Society Broasted Chicken In this time of Social distancing 19 Dinner. ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY. Pick-up only. Adults $20, Kids $10. Please continue to hold one we invite you to join a virtual For Tickets Call 519-845-3161 or 519-845-0302 another and our communities in congregation and watch the Sept 8-11pm Petrolia Live Music at the Crabby Joe’s Beer Garden featuring Eric Robert- your prayers. Sunday morning worship at Knox 19 son. Walk-in crowd only. Presbyterian Church in Thedford. 9:30am Service - Live Sept 6-8pm Petrolia Petrolia Lions Meat Raffle at Haywood’s Tap & Grill Rev. Michelle Collins-Wongkee 24 Church Office 519-882-1430 www.kpcthedford.com [email protected] www.standrews-petrolia.ca Sept 6pm Watford Watford Legion Meat Raffle 519-876-2360 25 Sept 7:30 - Petrolia Petrolia Farmers’ Market directly behind the Petrolia Library 26 12noon St. Paul’s United Church Wyoming United Church To have your event included in the 4169 Petrolia Line at Centre Street First Baptist Church 730 Second Street, Wyoming above Calendar of Events the following 418 Greenfield Street, Petrolia information is required: We invite you to join a virtual SERVICE SUSPENDED Due to the COVID-19 virus will be congregation and watch the Sunday until further notice Date: ______morning worship on our in compliance with Ontario Corona closed until further notice. Time: ______Facebook Page & Website. Virus meeting guidelines Pastor: Alex Craig We will keep you Town: ______Please Stay Safe! Church Office 519-882-2480 updated about any changes. Event Title: ______Rev. Susan Cameron email: [email protected] www.firstbaptistpetrolia.ca Phone # / website: ______10:30am Service Join Us for Worship - All are Welcome You can drop this off at our office or email Church Office: 519-882-1390 Find us on Facebook! Church Office 519-845-3963 the information to us at www.facebook.com/First-Baptist-Church-Petrolia [email protected] stpaulsunitedpetrolia.net Find us on Facebook events is Mondays at noon.** is Mondays events **Deadline for submitting free free submitting **Deadline for 12 – The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton Thursday, September 3, 2020 Activist can’t interfere with livestock now Province enacts first section was proclaimed today … We see this legislation as being the first part of act to protect meaningful tool toward addressing the harassment that our drivers face farmers from activists when they are confronted by animal activists,” says Susan Fitzgerald, As more businesses Max Martin executive director, Ontario Livestock Local Journalism Initiative Transporters’ Alliance The activists, on the other hand, have and services reopen, A section of a controversial agri- criticized the legislation, calling it an food bill that cracks down on animal “ag-gag” bill that muzzles their right to rights activists is coming into force protest, or collect evidence to expose we must all continue Wednesday, making it illegal to stop or animal cruelty and unlawful activity. obstruct a truck carrying farm animals. “I believe this provision is Monday, the Ontario government unconstitutional. It directly targets our e orts to protect announced it proclaimed Section 6(1) the Animal Save Movement … it’s of Bill 156, the Security from Trespass to prevent people from exposing the and Protecting Food Safety Act, 2020. suffering that animals on transport Under the new law, as of Wednesday trucks are enduring,” says Camille each other. it’s an offence to “stop, obstruct, Labchuk, executive director, Animal hinder or otherwise interfere with Justice. a motor vehicle transporting farm Section 6(1), along with three other animals.” related sections, come into effect less The maximum fine for a first offence than three months after an animal is $15,000, with repeat offenders rights activist was killed during a Continue to potentially drawing fines up to demonstration in Burlington. practice physical $25,000. June 19, long-time activist Regan Ontario’s Agriculture Minister Ernie Russell was killed after being hit by a distancing, stay two Hardeman says the new law is coming transport truck full of pigs outside of a 2 m into effect to help protect the public’s Burlington processing plant. metres apart even in safety and the provincial food supply. A 28-year-old North Perth man was “(We want) to make sure we keep all charged with careless driving causing gatherings. the people safe; the people who are out death. demonstrating and the people who are “It’s important to recognize that driving the trucks, and the livestock,” since the original passing of the Hardeman says. bill, the intensity of the protesting Hardeman added trespassing on agri- has increased quite dramatically,” food establishments or interfering with Hardeman said. Wear a face livestock transport can cause undue Groups will still be able to protest stress to animals and risks introducing in public places, so long as they don’t covering where diseases or contaminating the food obstruct traffic. A change to Regulation physical distancing supply. 950 of the Provincial Offences Act Warwick Mayor Jackie Rombouts, a will allow police to immediately issue is a challenge or pork producer, was one of the first to tickets to those who block or interfere push for the legislation. with trucks. where required. The contentious bill has drawn praise The remaining parts of the act are from Lambton County politicians open for public input, with regulatory who championed the bill, farmers provisions yet to be finalized. Other and truckers, who say they need more sections in the bill would introduce avenues to protect themselves from harsher fines for trespassing on farms animal rights activists. and agri-food processing facilities. “I was thrilled to hear that particular Source: London Free Press Conditional sentence for swampy crash Continue to wash hands frequently. Alex Kurial the house. Local Journalism Initiative The woman went to sleep, but later awoke to the sound of her truck A British Columbia man was given starting and taking off. She was a 12 month conditional discharge upset and said she had not given him following an early morning drive permission to drive the truck. which ended with a dive into a Port Defense lawyer James Guggisberg Franks swamp. says the accident resulted from “an Sarnia court heard David Heintz, odd night that I understand to be an Get tested if you 33, and his fiancé recently moved to aberration for an otherwise healthy Ontario from BC. relationship.” are worried you may On Jan. 16 this year witnesses awoke He says the couple remain together have COVID-19, or to find a truck had gone off the road and Heintz’s fiancé doesn’t want him and crashed into a tree in a marshy to go to jail. The pair are planning to have been exposed stretch of Outer Dr. in the Port Franks move back to BC soon. community. Justice Krista Leszczynski called to the virus. A man was wandering around asking the events “a very troubling set of for help towing the vehicle out of the circumstances.” swamp. She says the single count of taking Police arrived and found Heintz the truck without consent “does appear to be inebriated. He had trouble not necessarily capture all of the standing, was slurring his speech, and circumstances that occurred,” noting making animated body movements. Heintz was not facing charges for the Inside or out, stay safe. After dropping his phone and breaking crash or possibly being inebriated. the screen, Heintz was asked for ID. But she says jail time was not in the Save lives. He instead pulled out several baggies public interest, and Heintz’s fiancé of pills. wasn’t pursuing more serious charges. Heintz was arrested. As part of his year-long probation When police spoke with Heintz’s Heintz will have to take counselling Visit ontario.ca/coronavirus fiancé she said the couple had argued for domestic violence and substance Paid for by the Government of Ontario the night before, and after drinking a abuse. whole bottle of scotch, Heintz had left -The Independent