PETROLIA FARMERS’ MARKET EXTENDED BY TWO WEEKS – FRESH PRODUCE AND MAKERS MARKET PLANNED!
Petrolia, ON – With autumn approaching quickly, and the end of the 2023 Petrolia Farmers’ Market in sight, our Farmers’ Market vendors have agreed to extend the popular Market in Petrolia by two weeks!
For more than ten years, the Petrolia Farmers’ Market has closed on Thanksgiving weekend, but for 2023, there will be two extra weeks to stock up for winter – Saturday, October 14, and Saturday, October 21. Not only will the vendors you are all familiar with be there, but added vendors and crafters will be there also.
“Think of it as a Fall Market with a large variety of delicious fall foods but also one with many makers and crafters available.” Said Dave Menzies, Director of Parks and Recreation and Facilities.
Should you plan to attend, the Market will proceed on Saturday, October 14 and 21, from 7:30 a.m. – noon at 396 Fletcher Street, behind the library.
The Petrolia Resident Tree Program Will Return October 10
Petrolia – Each year, the Town of Petrolia Parks and Recreation department hosts a tree giveaway program where residents may request one tree (while supplies last) that they can plant on their property at no charge to the homeowner.
The trees are traditionally native trees, trees that provide a large canopy for shade, and/or trees that show off their bright colours in the autumn.
“This is always a successful program, and we are grateful for the number of residents that participate each year.” Said Director of Parks and Recreation and Facilities, Dave Menzies.
Residents are limited to one tree per Petrolia address. Only residents of Petrolia may participate in this program. Trees are available on a first come, first-served basis.
This year there are four varieties available:
Autumn Blaze Maple
Fire-red Fall colour, virtually keyless, up to 50 feet tall.
Sugar Maple
The shape of the sugar maple leaf is well known, as it’s found on the Canadian flag and is the national tree of Canada. Sugar maple gets its name from the sweet sap it produces, which is used to make syrup. Other maples can be used as well, but their sap is not nearly as sweet. It takes about 40 litres of sugar maple sap to make 1 litre of maple syrup. Sugar maples can live for more than 200 years. Typically grow to 35 meters tall.
The Flowering Crab tree is a small, deciduous tree found primarily in the temperate zone of the Northern Hemisphere. These trees typically grow to be 4-12 m tall, and possess distinct white, pink, or red petals when in bloom.
Sienna Glen Maple features showy clusters of red flowers along the branches in early spring before the leaves appear. It has green deciduous foliage. The lobed leaves turn outstanding shades of orange, red and burgundy in the fall. The furrowed gray bark and brick red branches add an interesting dimension.
Residents are advised that trees will be available by telephone only on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, starting at 8:30 a.m. while supplies last. Residents are asked to call (519)882-2350.
Tree certificates will be available for pick up on Wednesday, October 11 through Friday, October 20, 2023, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the Municipal Office. Trees are available for pick up with the certificate starting on Friday, October 20, 2023, from Windover Nurseries.
The Town of Petrolia has been working on a strategic plan for 2024-2028 to help guide decision-making and define the vision for the future and identify the Town’s goals and objectives. The process includes establishing the sequence in which those goals should be realized so that the Town can reach the stated vision.
As part of the development of the 2024-2028 Town of Petrolia Strategic Plan, residents are being asked for their feedback through a short survey https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PetroliaStrategicPlan, by video chat submission through Video Ask https://www.videoask.com/fcvtqgtni or by a printed survey that is available at Town Hall and the Petrolia Farmers’ Market.
Chief Administrative Officer, Rick Charlebois calls the process, “…both interesting and important. It is the roadmap that staff use continually to ensure that the goals and objectives outlined in the strategic plan are met in the established timelines. The development of the strategic plan is also a good opportunity to revisit the vision for the town and the future of Petrolia.”
The questions are open-ended and allow for feedback on a variety of questions and ask the resident to think about 4 years in the future. Traditionally, a strategic plan for the municipality is for the 4-year term of Council. The strategic plan is referred to each time a report is sent to Council from staff for consideration, and Council use the document to guide decision making.
Kate Graham, Senior Advisor with Colliers Project Leaders is assisting with the development of the Strategic Plan and has added that “The best Strategic Plans are those developed through collaboration and by parties that are passionate about the organization. This process has been very successful so far as the Council for the Town of Petrolia and the staff are all very engaged and want the very best for Petrolia. The resident feedback is incredibly important to the process as the plan impacts them directly, and we want something that is the very best direction for Petrolia for the next four years.”
PETROLIA ANNOUNCES YOUTH ENGAGEMENT SUMMIT (#YES)
Petrolia’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) is calling on all youth ages 12 to 18 to attend their first annual Youth Engagement Summit (#YES) on October 14!
The Committee of Council is brand new for the Town of Petrolia and are already making some big moves to engage youth in the area. The idea of a youth summit has been floated for several years in Petrolia and with this energetic and engaged committee it is coming to fruition.
The day promises to be full of fun, meaningful and interesting opportunities for attendees and includes some key subjects including career workshops, information from community partners, games, prizes, guest speakers and a free lunch provided by the Lions Club of Petrolia!
Acting Mayor Joel Field said, “This is great for the youth. What a great idea to bring so many things together in one place where it’s easy for them to learn and access information.”
The list of sponsors is growing daily, and the event is pleased to have the support of the Petrolia YMCA, the Town of Petrolia, the Lions Club of Petrolia, and the Rotary Club of Petrolia so far.
Co-Chairperson for the Petrolia Youth Advisory Committee, Ava Horwood, said, “The #YES Event will be one to remember! I am so excited to be a part of the YAC committee and work alongside some fantastic people to host the first annual event that will spark leadership, encourage collaboration, and promote positivity in Petrolia youth!”
Registration opens on Tuesday, August 15 at 10:00 a.m. online at www.thevpp.ca/tickets by phone at (519)882-1221 or in person at the Victoria Playhouse Petrolia Box Office, 411 Greenfield Street, Petrolia. Tickets are $10 each, and financial aid is available by contacting the committee at petroliayouthadvisorycommittee@gmail.com.
For those that register between August 15, 2023, and September 15, 2023, your name will be entered in a draw to win a 3-month YMCA pass from the Petrolia YMCA.
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PETROLIA MAYOR CELEBRATES VOLUNTEERISM FOR 2022
Petrolia, ON- Mayor R. Brad Loosley was pleased to honour all Town volunteers tonight at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. More than eighty volunteers were present to celebrate their accomplishments in 2022.
This recognition event, generally held in February of each year, follows an event that was held in September 2022 to honour recipients for 2020 and 2021.
Service Club members, Town Committees, Victoria Playhouse Petrolia volunteers, and many other groups were recognized at the event. The evening culminated with Mayor Loosley awarding the Volunteer of the Year Awards to two individuals and reserved a third award for a separate presentation when the, as of now, unnamed recipient is available.
Town of Petrolia – Volunteer of the Year 2022 – Community Partner – LARRY LECKIE
- St. Paul’s United Church
- Petrolia Community Refrigerator
- Petrolia in Bloom
Town of Petrolia – Volunteer of the Year 2022 – Community Service – TERRY SYER
A third, unnamed at this time, volunteer will be recognized later, as they were unable to attend the event.
Mayor R. Brad Loosley couldn’t thank each volunteer enough and stated, “It is a true joy to see so many people so actively invested in the Town of Petrolia. Words do not simply describe the depth of appreciation that we have for each of you. Thank you for sharing generously of your time and for being such proud community supporters.”
Each of the honouree’s was awarded a framed certificate from the mayor, and a glass award with the Town’s clock tower on the face, and bouquets of flowers.
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Attachment: Photo: From left to right: Larry Leckie, Mayor R. Brad Loosley, Terry Syer
2023 GREEN LEADER PROGRAM Open for Applications
In partnership with WM and the Town of Petrolia
February 22, 2023
The “Green Leader Program” is part of WM Canada and the
Town of Petrolia’s ongoing efforts to encourage the development of local
community engagement and environmental solutions that build sustainable
communities. The program is centered
around a grant opportunity that is available to applicants living, working and
learning in the Town of Petrolia or benefitting Petrolia and its residents.
WM and the Town of Petrolia are inviting businesses, organizations and institutions to apply for this funding opportunity. The program is inclined to support initiatives that highlight the following:
Environmental Conservation: With a commitment to sustainability and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, we give priority consideration to organizations and programs that preserve and/or enhance renewable resources.
Environmental Education: We’re committed to enhancing communities through programs that make them cleaner and better places to live.
Community Vitality: When we ensure that our neighbourhoods and communities are safe and sustainable, we provide the best living environment for customers, employees and stakeholders.
SUCCESSFUL 2023 Applicants Included:
Hillcrest Public School (School Council) – $5,000
The Rotary Club of Petrolia – $5,000
Petrolia Heritage Advisory Committee – Special North Street Cemetery Project – $2,500
IODE Margaret Stokes Chapter – $2,500
Applicants may request up to $15,000 in program/project funding. This funding is a one-time, non-repayable, fully funded grant. Applications will be reviewed by a committee. Successful applicants will be announced on April 21, 2023, as Earth Day falls on a Saturday.
Questions? Please contact us at lfurtado@wm.com or dmenzies@petrolia.ca.
APPLY BY MARCH 30, 2023
To begin the application process, visit: http://town.petrolia.on.ca/town-hall/forms/green-leader-grant/
The Town of Petrolia is pleased to share information regarding the renewal of a multi-year sponsorship agreement for the 2023 Olympia ice resurfacing machine. The cost of the new Olympia will be partially supported by three long-term partners of the town.
Bluewater Power Corporation, Damar Security Systems, and the Margaret Stokes IODE, have each signed a five-year deal that will see advertising revenue placed into a reserve to offset the replacement cost of new Olympia ice resurfacing machines into the future.
Mayor R. Brad Loosley was thrilled that staff had renewed the sponsorship agreements with two outstanding companies, and the Margaret Stokes IODE, to help with a necessary and expensive asset at the Greenwood Recreation Centre. He added that, “… The Bluewater Power Group of Companies and Damar Security Systems are great partners, and true community-minded businesses. The Margaret Stokes Chapter of IODE continues to show their support to our community, and we appreciate their generosity.”
The town is a shareholder with Bluewater Power Corporation and has been working with the town to further develop green initiatives and to encourage energy savings in our community.
Janice McMichael-Dennis, President and CEO of the Bluewater Power Group of Companies said, “The Bluewater Power Group of Companies is an always proud to support valuable local projects through our Community Fund. We love our Friends in Petrolia and are thrilled to play a part ensuring our arenas are full of energy!”
Damar Security Systems has worked with the town for close to thirty years to help keep the town safe with their monitoring systems, security systems and cameras.
Chris Currie, President of Damar Security Systems said, “As a family-owned business that has been operating in Lambton County for over 50 years, Damar Security Systems is proud to sponsor the new Olympia Ice Resurfacer at Petrolia’s Greenwood Recreation Centre.
Supporting the communities that we live and work in is extremely important to Damar Security Systems. By sponsoring the new Olympia Ice Resurfacer, we are helping ensure that the community of Petrolia and surrounding areas have access to public skating, figure skating, senior and minor hockey as well as the associated health benefits and entertainment of these activities.
Damar Security Systems is thankful for the opportunity to partner with the Town of Petrolia and Bluewater Power to support the local community.”
Margaret Stokes IODE have also sponsored the new Olympia, and their logo appears on the new resurfacer as well. This service club is a longtime partner of the Town of Petrolia and President, Wendy Loosley said, “…We are pleased to able to support the Town in purchasing items that benefit our community.”
Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities, Dave Menzies said “Although these two great companies, and the local service club, are returning sponsors, the new Olympia has a fresh look with brand new graphics, and we cannot wait for everyone to see it. We appreciate the ongoing support.”
Representatives from Bluewater Power Corporation, Damar Security Systems, and the Margaret Stokes IODE helped Mayor R. Brad Loosley and staff unveil the new Olympia at Greenwood Recreation Centre on February 14.
Following nearly three years of online meetings during the pandemic, the Town of Petrolia has continued to broadcast Council meetings throughout 2022 once Council returned to in-person meetings. At this time there is a need for equipment upgrades should council continue to do so. Please help us by providing feedback so that the report can include public input regarding interest and opinion on spending. The survey is short, and it should take approximately one minute to complete. Thank you in advance for your feedback and assistance.
Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RC296HB
Background for the nature of this survey:
– to make its public meetings as accessible as possible to all residents
-council takes seriously its commitments and obligations to be accountable and transparent to all residents -council strives to utilize best practices in delivering services to its residents which includes the use of current technologies to improve and enhance such services – Council of the Corporation of the Town of Petrolia directed staff to investigate the potential use and costs of various methods and technologies available for the purposes of providing Audio-Visual streaming and archiving of all public open and in camera council meetings including regular and special meetings of council and report back to council its findings and recommendations moving forward.
Rotary Club of Petrolia Helps Light Up Victoria Park, Petrolia
Petrolia, ON – If you have visited downtown Petrolia this month, you can’t help but notice the beautiful lighting displays in Victoria Park, Petrolia. This is with thanks, in part, to the Rotary Club of Petrolia and their ongoing commitment to providing improvements for the community.
Four large deer, covered in lights, stand either side of the walkway leading into Victoria Park, regally welcoming visitors and adding to the festive atmosphere.
Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities, Dave Menzies said, “We are truly grateful for the new additions to the park. They are a great photo opportunity for families and visitors, and they look fantastic too.”
Acting Mayor, and Parks, Recreation Advisory Committee Council Representative Bill Clark added, “This is the kind of thing that makes Petrolia special. The community working together to provide these generous additions to our downtown, and to our events. On behalf of Council, staff, and the Committee, we would like to thank the Rotary Club for their continued support and for these beautiful displays.”
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Attachment: Photo from left to right, back row – Rotarian Dave Tetreault; Acting Mayor/Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Council Representative, Bill Clark; Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities, Dave Menzies. From left to right, front row – Rotarian Omer May, Rotary President Steve Lichty, and Rotarian Doug Clark.
PETROLIA YMCA
FARMER’S MARKET
VICTORIA PLAYHOUSE
COMMUNITY FUND
CONTACT US
411 Greenfield Street, Petrolia, ON N0N 1R0 | TEL: (519)882-2350 | petrolia@petrolia.ca
The Corporation of the Town of Petrolia 2016 | PRIVACY POLICY
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