James Barker Band coming to Petrolia for minor hockey fundraiser
Former Oil Springs mayor, Lambton warden Byers ‘valued community, friendship and service’
August 11, 2026
The Independent
Long-time Oil Springs Mayor and Lambton County Warden Owen Byers has passed away.
Byers, his family said in his obituary “valued community, friendship and service, leaving behind many lasting connections and memories.”
Byers, who was a driver with Suncor, began his political career as a councillor in 1976. After a three-year-term, he became the community’s reeve until 1991, when the title changed to mayor. He served 14 years as the leader of the community.
Byers was elected by his political peers in 1993 to be Warden of Lambton County, two years after a massive shift in county government when Sarnia returned to the county fold.
After he left politics, Byers passion became supporting Charlotte Eleanor Englehart Hospital, chairing its foundation board until 2023.
Byers passed away Monday at the age of 86, leaving behind his children, Jeff, Brian and Rebecca and five grandchildren.
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James Barker Band coming to Petrolia for minor hockey fundraiser
October 20, 2026
The Independent Petrolia will play host to one of Canada’s rising stars in country music. The James Barker Band is coming to the Greenwood Recreation Centre May 15 as a fundraiser for Petrolia Minor hockey. The band is know for songs such as Keep It Simple, Over All Over Again, There’s a Drink for That and New Old Trucks. The
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OPP look for info on stolen e-bike in Corunna
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The Independent Lambton OPP are looking for a thief after an e-bike was stolen in Corunna. The OPP were called to a home on Argyle St. Oct. 16 around 11 am after the e-bike was stolen from a garage at the home. Police say the theft occurred around 4:30 am; surveillance footage shows someone entered through the side man door
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One man charged after assault
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The Independent A Sarnia man is facing charges after an assault near NOVA Chemical. Monday, police were called to on Ladysmith Road near Petrolia Line after a report of an assault. The OPP Emergency Response Team and Canine Unit went to the scene. Police say two people were talking when one man drew a weapon before leaving the area. There
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Traffic delays expected as Grand Bend bridge work continues
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The Independent There will be some slowdowns in Grand Bend as the asphalt work on the new Ontario Street Bridge in continues. Tuesday, Lambton Shores officials say there will be increased traffic control and delays on the bridge but traffic will be able to move through. Wednesday, Main St. West from Kitchener Ave to Ontario St. and Main St. East
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