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The Independent wins provincial honours

April 18, 2023

For the fourth time in five years, The Independent of Petrolia and Central Lambton has been named the top small newspaper in the province.
The Ontario Community Newspaper Association handed out its 2022 awards Friday and The Independent was named the Best Newspaper among those with circulation under 2,000.
The judges praised The Independent’s “extensive coverage, strong photography, clean design and effective advertising…providing the people the information they need about their community.”
The Independent also placed second in Sports Photography for Heather Wright’s photo at the Alvinston Pro Rodeo and third for a story about racism in hockey in the Sports and Recreation category.
“We’re excited to be recognized again for the work we love to do,” says Publisher Heather Wright.

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Sarnia police say it’s never too late to report sexual assault

September 24, 2026

The Independent Sarnia Police are pointing to the conviction of a former Sarnia Observer sports reporter to remind victims of sexual assault it is never too late to call police. Sept. 18, Miller, who now lives in Penticton, BC, was found guilty of four counts of sexual interference and one count of invitation to sexual touching. The convictions stem from

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Mural of ‘iconic Sarnia images’ on Indian Road complete

September 24, 2026

The Independent Drivers taking Indian or Plank Roads in Sarnia have something new to see – a giant mural of what Imperial Oil officials call some of the most iconic images of Sarnia-Lambton. Local artist Kennady Osborne of Seventh Rayn Design. Co created the work first on canvas. Then, the art work was transformed into a 95-foot by 30-foot mural,

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Young people urged to stay involved in municipal politics

September 24, 2026

Cathy Dobson/The Independent Getting good jobs for youth and ensuring they can afford to buy a house are top priorities for numerous Sarnia council candidates hoping to be elected Oct. 26. “I’m new and I don’t have all the answers, but my fear is that I’ll have to die in order for my children to own a house and I

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Dennis leaves all-candidates forum before it begins

September 23, 2026

Cathy Dobson/The Independent An abrupt departure by Bill Dennis at a youth-led all-candidates forum Wednesday means the five Sarnia mayoral candidates have not yet faced off during this municipal election campaign. Numerous people witnessed a verbal altercation between Dennis and a youth prior to the event held at the Lambton College events centre.   He left shortly after, according to Michelle

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