September 12, 2012

Smell defers expansion request at Seacliff Energy

By Bill Chaplin, Municipal Correspondent

A report presented to Leamington Council recommending endorsement of Seacliff Energy’s planned expansion was put on hold for a month due to concerns from members of Council about just how well the company is coping with odours escaping from its operation.

Seacliff Energy diverts tonnes of waste from the regional landfill by treating it in anaerobic digesters. The methane produced in the process is used in a diesel engine to generate electricity, while the waste heat is used to heat a greenhouse operation. To assist the company’s plan to expand, it was hoping to get municipal council’s endorsement of a ministry-worded resolution supporting their efforts on Monday, Sept. 10.

However, a 32-page addendum to Council’s agenda contained e-mails indicating that odours have, in the past, caused neighbours discomfort. Councillor Rick Atkin characterized these complaints as “pretty damning”. There was no doubt that Roger Tiessen and Dennis Dick, partners in the enterprise, had made serious efforts to address these odours.

“We have worked very hard to mitigate and extinguish them,” stated Mr. Dick.

To be certain of the status of the remedial measures, Leamington Council voted to defer consideration of the resolution to its October 22nd meeting, by which time information from the Ministry as well as documentation from the company will have been received.

Mulholland on horseracing future...

By Bryan Jessop

Those with ties to horse racing — locally and otherwise — apparently have plenty of reason to fear the unknown.

Dresden Raceway and Hiawatha in Sarnia recently closed their doors to harness racing for the 2012 season, and as explained by longstanding Leamington horse trainer Reg Mulholland, nobody is certain that they’ll reopen them for 2013. The well being of 17 horse racing tracks across the province has been up in the air since the Ontario government announced in March its decision to discontinue a slot machine revenue system it has shared with these facilities over the past decade and a half.

Queen’s Park’s choice not to renew the slot revenue agreement has already forced the closure of tracks in Windsor and Fort Erie. The impact is already being felt at the Leamington Fairgrounds and if Dresden and Hiawatha suffer the same fate as Windsor Raceway, the trickle down effect will most likely worsen further still.

In the 1990s, the provincial government formed a partnership with the 17 tracks across Ontario to install slot machines and split the profits generated by these machines. Mulholland described the system as a ‘win-win‘ situation that benefited everyone involved. He pointed out, in fact, that similar partnerships were soon formed in nearby American states such as Ohio, New York and Pennsylvania.

“It turned out great,”

Mulholland said. “We were doing so good, everyone wanted a piece. Gaming revenue was very progressive and all partners came out ahead.”

With the slot machine partnership scheduled to officially end in March of next year, Mulholland explained that breeders of both thoroughbred and standardbred horses are terrified by what the results of the upcoming auction season will bring. Insight into what will happen regarding standardbred sales will come to light dur-

ing a Sept. 15-16 yearling sale at Flamboro Downs in Dundas. About four or five horses stabled at Leamington Fairgrounds will make this journey to Flamboro.

“It’s been a devastating effect on the Fairgrounds,” Mulholland said. “Nobody knows what to do with their horses.”

Prior to the closure of the Windsor track, Mulholland was training as many as 20 standardbred horses at one time. Currently, he is training five. With the closure of nearby tracks, he noted, lo-

cal jobs will also be lost. Standardbred horses, more durable than thoroughbreds, can be trained yearround, although training and other full-time jobs pertaining to the immediate care of these horses are not the only jobs at stake. Feed depots as well as businesses selling equipment, trailers and trucks will also feel the impact, Mulholland said. He explained that the trickle down effect will also be felt by farmers who grow

(Continued on Page 2)

Reg Mulholland begins removing the harness on St. Lads Moxie after a few training laps at Leamington Fairgrounds.

(SUN Photo)

(Continued from front) and sell hay used by race horses.

“Windsor was a haven for us,” he explained. “We really needed and relied on that track. We’re in limbo now. We need help and we need to know where we’re going — we need some certainty.”

Mulholland grew up in a family involved with horses, an interest he has actively pursued for nearly half a century. He also coached the Leamington Flyers to a Great Lakes Junior ‘C’ championship in 1982 and has been an active member of the Leamington and District Agricultural Society for the past several years. Mulholland’s wife Janette Mulholland died in December of 2010 and has since had the Janette Mulholland Activity Centre built on Fairgrounds property in her honour.

Reg, who moved to Leamington from Kingston about 35 years ago, attended two rallies at Queen’s Park in an effort to force answers from government officials regarding the discontinuation of slot revenues. He came home on both occasions without any such information.

Ontario’s horse racing facilities represent about seven per cent of the tracks across North America, a portion that Mulholland said is certain to drop in the coming months. Without a new agreement with the government, he stated, all 17 tracks will probably close permanently.

Although Mulholland’s dedication to the Leamington Fairgrounds and horses stabled there is well known through the community, he is not the only person disturbed by the Ontario government’s decision in the spring of this year.

“For them to do something like this without any consultation, the kindest word to describe it is ‘unfair’,” said Robert Lee, a co-owner of standardbred horse Trek Seelster. Lee noted that the financial impact of slot revenue losses will be worsened by the soaring price of hay. With the added costs of stall rental, feed, blacksmithing and other expenses, he explained that many owners will be unable to keep their horses once there is nowhere for them to race.

“It’s practically a perfect storm,” Lee said.

Lee, Mulholland and several other horse enthusiasts in the area fear that the discontinued slots partnership between the government and Ontario tracks will lead to the slaughter of thousands of horses and the loss of thousands of jobs.

Reg Mulholland brings St. Lads Moxie back to her stable after a few laps around the Leamington Fairgrounds half-mile track on the morning of Tuesday, Sept. 4. (SUN Photo)

Bikesmart collects bikes in Leamington

By Bryan Jessop

Bicycling as affordable transportation just got even easier on the wallet for anyone living near Kingsville.

The Youth and Family Resources Network launched Bikesmart in April of this year, a program designed to make bicycling an affordable transportation option for youth and adults alike across Essex County. With its sales and repair/maintenance facility at 23 Mill St. West in Kingsville, Bikesmart has also set out to teach youths valuable skills that can be utilized throughout an individual’s personal and professional life.

On Saturday, Sept. 8, Bikesmart set up locations in Essex and Leamington to set up Bikedrive, an event where local residents donated unused bicycles at the Essex Recreation Centre and the Kinsmen Recreation Complex in Leamington. About half a dozen bikes were donated at the Essex location with another 10 being dropped off in Leamington.

Adding to Bikesmart’s inventory, however, wasn’t the main objective of Bikedrive.

“We’re not really worried that much about getting a lot of donations today,” said Bikesmart program coordinator Michael Cervi during the Leamington visit. “What we’re more concerned about is getting the word out that this service is available.”

Bicycles donated to Bikesmart are refurbished and repaired by volunteers and in turn sold at a price of $40 per adult bike or $20 per youth bike. The facility, located at Kingsville’s former Lions Hall, also repairs customers’ bicycles at about half the rate of most bicycle shops. Bikesmart has access to a full range of replacement tires, tubes, cables, gears, brake kits and chains. The shop is able

to repair a wide range of models, from high-end road bikes to common mountain bikes for users of all ages. Tune-ups are offered for a price of $25. Armed with all necessary tools and accounts with parts companies, Bikesmart can also replace bearings, straighten wheels and perform minor to moderate frame repairs.

Bikesmart is open from noon to 7 p.m. Tuesday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. High school students looking to fulfill their community service hours may take on duties at the shop, where they can learn mechanical skills as well as accumulate customer relations and retail experience as well as inventory management. Apprenticeship programs are also available at Bikesmart.

The organization’s building holds about 150 bikes in storage with another 80-plus on the showroom floor. The facility’s grand opening took place in April of this year and will receive financial support from The Ontario Trillium Foundation over a three-year period. Cervi explained that the goal of Bikesmart is to become self-sustainable at the end of the Trillium grant.

Bikesmart is the only bicycle repair shop available in Essex County with the exception of one such facility in Windsor.

“We’ve heard from a lot of people who said they were sad to see Dixie (Lawn and Cycle) in Leamington close up,” said Cervi. “We want to reach out to everybody across Essex County to offer affordable transportation.”

Co-op student Michael Tilley (left) and Bikesmart co-ordinator Michael Cervi place a donated bicycle on a trailer during a Bikedrive at the Kinsmen Recreation Complex, held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8. (SUN Photo)

Co-op student Michael Tilley (left) and Bikesmart co-ordinator Michael Cervi show off the Bikesmart banner during a Bikedrive at the Kinsmen Recreation Complex Saturday, Sept. 8.

Letters to the Editor

Re: Waterfront giveaway

Interestingly enough, after circulating invitations to numerous area residents to make comment and/or appear before council to discuss the future use of this 15 foot wide piece of property (technically an alleyway from the old Mersea Township days), no-one not even Mr. Rice made any effort to do so. Council asked that this notice be circulated because there were a few of us who saw it as an opportunity to use it as a pathway and viewing point for residents and the general public.

We wanted to know how the residents felt. Their silence sealed the fate of this property and while not everyone on Council supported the decision, the majority did and that is how it stands.

with it would be to set a picnic table on it. And since the abutting property owners are not obligated to purchase it, there really is no value. Thus performing a valuation on it, listing it for sale, handling all the legal work involved in selling it, would simply be a waste of taxpayer funds.

Retaining Municipal ownership and turning it into a privacy-fenced pathway and viewing station was also considered. But with the vandalism problems already experienced on our pathways, the cost of fencing, building a secure viewing platform and the regular maintenance, the cost and issues to do so was considered unreasonable.

The fact that this alleyway will be transferred to the new property owner will increase the value of that existing property and increased taxes will be paid to the municipality. So in the end, taxpayers win.

If one looks at it as Council did, the question needed to be answered, “as no-one can build on a 15 foot wide piece of property, what value is there to anyone other than the abutting property owners?” Listing it for sale to the general public would most certainly not command Mr. Rice’s quoted $3,000 per foot price as the best anyone could do

It is unfortunate that if Mr. Rice and others felt so passionately about that 15 foot piece of land, they did not reply or make an attempt to appear before Council to state their case. It may have garnered one more vote in favour and thus the outcome of the decision.

Leamington Mayor John Paterson

Re: Mayor John Paterson’s letter

His letter was simply a deflection away from the issue. Council gave away the taxpayer’s Waterfront Right-ofWay to a neighbour for just $0.07 per ft.

Shame on the Mayor for blaming the taxpayers for not showing up to ensure their elected officials did their job. It’s obvious there was no issue with the Right-of-Way being sold or the residents would have said so. No, the issue was with the way the Right-of-Way was sold. Appraisals should always be done before disposing of taxpayer’s property - period. We elected you and you were voted Mayor because you promised to change the way things were done. Giving our property away without so much as an appraisal is just more of the old way of doing things. Whatever is quick and easy.

If a Councillor wanted to sell off 15’ of their own excess property, we are sure they would not take the easy way out and sell it to a neighbour for a dollar. Instead, they would first obtain appraisals to ensure they were getting maximum price for their land. The taxpayers of Leamington deserve no less from their elected representatives, when it comes to OUR Municipal land or any of our assets.

The Mayor disagreed with my figure of $3,000 per ft.

selling price for waterfront property. How does he know? He didn’t have an appraisal done! Even if you cut the current selling rate in half and make it $1,500 per ft., $0.07 per ft. is “Free”. You did not try to obtain the maximum price for the taxpayers of Leamington. This would also help minimize our taxes. Not a high priority apparently. Council seems to have forgotten - You represent the interest of the taxpayers.

Deputy Mayor Charlie Wright called for an appraisal, more than once, before Council voted to sell the taxpayer’s land. He was ignored. Even the Minutes of the Council meeting fail to document his clear calls for an appraisal. Why? At least the reporters heard his calls loud and clear, as witnessed by their press reports for all to read. Example: “Deputy-Mayor Wright was quite adamant that Council should have the land in the 15-ft-wide alley appraised before disposing of it.”

Despite the election promises, our new Council is still doing things the old way and this under Mayor John Paterson’s leadership. Shame on our new Council. Mr. Mayor, take responsibility and ownership for your leadership and do not shift the blame onto others.

Greg Rice, Leamington

Wheatley Harbour - Summer 2012

Our Story – His Story

Reading. I love to read in the fall, the spring and the other two seasons as well! What I find on the pages opens up doors to places I can only dream of and knowledge that I crave to learn. Presently, the ‘Biography of Detroit’ is keeping me busy and out of trouble, away from some other ‘shady’ books I’ve been avoiding.

SHANNON MATHESON

While turning the historical pages of this biography, familiar names pop out as if they were people I once knew. Up until this point, they were simply the names of streets, boulevards and avenues I have traversed on many occasions. Their names are more than ‘just names’, as they reflect the people who mentored and helped many others create the city of Detroit. These people, Cadillac, Dodge and Cass, Brush and his children, Adelaide, Alfred, Edmund and Eliot, are a few of the names noted.

Lifestyles...

So many things that I have learned in life can be traced back to the people who have had an influence on me, those who helped create the person I’ve become. Most of us, when thinking back throughout our years, can remember a number of key people who have left lasting impressions on us.

Oprah Winfrey says, “A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself.” This statement opens up an opportunity for each of us. Our mentors can be anyone — a teacher, a friend, a boss, a stranger — but the most important one is yourself. You hold the responsibility and the power to encourage or discourage yourself from making your next decision or following a specific bend in the road.

Recently, my niece, Tara, won the Leamington Tomato Fest Scholarship Pageant. I believe she won because she followed her heart and portrayed her true self. Although she willingly asked for direction and opinions from the people around her, she, in the end, made the perfect decisions for herself regarding the appropriate dress to wear, what song she wanted to sing and whether or not she should even enter the pageant. Listening to others is a gift, but listening to yourself is the key.

“Luctor and Emergo” is a Latin term meaning “Struggle and Emerge”. In the midst of reading my Detroit biography, I sensed both the struggling and the emerging that this city has gone through. This has taught me to recognize that every town, city and country, in fact, every person has to struggle and emerge.

Detroit has character and to read about how, in spite of innumerable challenges, it has set itself apart from other cities in very positive ways is a fact I find to be astounding. It’s interesting and quite remarkable to discover the impact Detroit has had on industry and technical minds around the world.

A similar quality makes each one of us unique. Learning about other places and people helps us individually. Choosing to read or explore how others have managed can help us map out our own lives. The paths we follow impact our destiny.

Someday, when we are no longer here, the stories that are told won’t only be about the ‘one person’ we were, but about all of those people we were influenced by and hopefully, about those we had a positive influence on.

If you work at it, you can make your biography a great one!

20th annual Apple Bowl to support Community Living

The Ruthven Apple Festival Steering Committee is pleased to announce the 20th annual Apple Bowl.

The Apple Bowl, a fundraising bowling event, is part of the annual Ruthven Apple Festival and will be held at Empire Lanes in Ruthven on Sunday, October 14 at 2 p.m.

Everyone is invited to participate in a couple of hours of fun for a great cause. Simply put together your own group of four or five friends, collect a minimum of $20 each in pledges, and bowl. It’s that simple!

Participants can look forward to great prizes for top pledges collected, two games of bowling, and refreshments. For more information or to register your team, call Tony DeSantis, Manager of Community Relations with Community Living Essex County, at 519-7766486, ext. 246.

The 33rd Annual Ruthven Apple Festival will be held on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 29-30 at Colasanti’s

24 hours for Brady

The Athletic Club in Kingsville has organized a special 24-hour event in memory of 17-year-old Brady Rogers who lost his life this summer after suffering an asthma attack at his high school graduation party that his parents Mark and Susanne put on for him earlier this summer.

On Friday, September 21, the fundraiser will start at the Kingsville Athletic Club at 4 p.m. The goal is to keep a variety of cardio machines going for 24 hours straight. For a $10 donation you can help by doing 30 minutes on one of the machines. Money raised from the event will go towards the Brady Rogers bursary fund to help other Kingsville District High School students. All participants will receive a ballot for a draw for a one-year free membership at The Athletic Club. “We are setting aside eight cardio machine for this, depending on how many sign up,” said Lyn Robinet, Manager of The Athletic Club in Kingsville where Brady was a member.

At 10 p.m. on Friday night there will be a Memorial Walk from the Athletic Club to Kingsville District High School and back to the Athletic Club. All are welcome and donations to the Brady Rogers Bursary would be appreciated. “This is for people who just want to support the family,” said Robinet.

The Athletic Club participates in various fundraising activities. “This really hit home for everyone here. We just wanted to do something for the family and for the community… It’s so hard when it’s a young person; it’s so sad,” said Robinet. For more information or to book your 30-minute time slot, call 519-733-1100.

Tropical Gardens. For more information go to www. communitylivingessex.org To date, the Ruthven

Apple Festival has raised $685,000 on behalf of Community Living Essex County.

Brady Rogers

Fundraising plans in full swing for LDMH Women’s Centre

By Bryan Jessop

The Leamington District Memorial Hospital Foundation’s fundraising drive for the new Women’s Centre managed to gain momentum before it even officially began.

Sponsors and contributors to the centre began stepping forward several weeks ago to help the foundation reach its goal of $1.1 million — the funding total necessary to turn the hospital’s plans into a reality.

One week after the drive’s Thursday, Sept. 13 kick off, Dr. Shelly Lalani will present the Dinner and Fashion Show Fundraiser, to be hosted by Leamington’s Portuguese Club — the same venue for tomorrow’s noon kickoff. The dinner and fashion show will begin at 6:30 p.m. and much like the Women’s Centre fundraising drive that it supports, started with a promising response from the community. Tickets, selling at $65 each for both the dinner and fashion show, are already well on their way to being sold out. The Portuguese Club can host about 400 guests.

Lalani, an orthodontist who owns her own practice in Leamington, approached LDMH Foundation director of development Ross Barnwell when she heard of the fundraising drive for a new Women’s Centre and asked how she could help. She presented him with the idea for the fashion show and dinner, which Barnwell and the rest of the foundation were eager to see become a reality.

“Shelly and the staff at her practice are really going full throttle with this,” said Barnwell. “She’s really set out to wow the community with the dinner and show, which I’m sure is exactly what she’ll do.”

Although Lalani has not established an official fundraising target for the dinner and fashion show, she is making strides to ensure the event generates as much funding as possible. Her goal is to sell out the venue, which according to Barnwell, she has already nearly achieved. In order to purchase tickets to the dinner and show, contact Lalani’s practice at 519-326-6189.

The show will also include a silent auction, which has been greeted by numerous item contributions by local businesses and organizations.

“The community has really been coming up to bat for us,” said Barnwell. “Not just Leamington, but Kingsville as well.”

To help offset costs, Lalani has recruited a team of volunteer models for the show, some of whom have stepped forward on behalf of the outfit-offering clothing stores where they are employed.

If any tickets are remaining, Lalani will have them for sale during the Women’s Centre fundraising kick off at The Portuguese Club tomorrow (Sept. 13). The kickoff will be attended by mayors representing the hospital’s service area, including those from Leamington’s John Paterson, Kingsville’s Nelson Santos and Essex’s Ron McDermott. Fundraising supporters have also been invited, including the title sponsor TD Canada Trust.

“Groups like this have really allowed us to start with some momentum,” said Barnwell, who will announce during the kick off the amount of funding collected so far. Although he will not divulge the monetary figure prior to the official launch, he explained that it is a significant portion of the $1.1 million needed.

“The assistance we’ve received so far will really show the community that this is something we can accomplish with its support,” Barnwell explained.

The Women’s Centre will be located on the lower level of LDMH and will feature a digital mammography unit for breast cancer diagnosis. Currently, the only such device in Essex County is located in Windsor.

“It will be nice for patients to be able to make a five-minute drive for services like this,” Barnwell said.

The centre will also include a digital mode biopsy machine, based primarily on a large needle that removes a portion of the suspect lump that will allow the presence of breast cancer to be detected without surgery. A bone densatometre will also be a part of the Women’s Centre. While lying on a

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The local improvements dilemma derails Bevel Line Sewer

By Bill Chaplin, Municipal Correspondent

Ontario Regulation 586-06 sets out the rules for a municipality recovering the cost of project that is a local improvement. It is a regulation that, without a doubt, was crafted by a city lawyer for use in an urban setting. When it is applied to a rural situation it can be a nightmare, and in the case of the Bevel Line sewer it is a nightmare.

In town, the application of the rules is pretty simple and reasonably fair. The cost of a sewer (for example) is shared by the properties it services according to how wide the frontage of your lot happens to be. Property owners along the street pay pretty much the same (unless somebody owns a really wide chunk of property, in which case it is more expensive). What’s more, there aren’t great stretches of distance where the sewer has to run before anybody gets some benefit from it.

In the country, however, although each property (in theory) can receive the same benefit from the sewer, the size and shape of properties varies wildly, and there are often great stretches of vacant land past which the sewer must travel, but from which nobody seems to benefit.

On Bevel Line you have to travel all the way from Seacliff to Mersea Road B before the sewer even starts. The properties abutting that northern portion of the road will not even be able to use what is proposed because that entire

distance will be a force main pumping effluent uphill to the pollution control plant. It is the lower portion (from Mersea Road B to the Sturgeon Creek bridge) that will be a gravity sewer servicing the lands on the east side of the Bevel Line. Moreover, the properties vary hugely in dimension from a low of just over 18m wide to a high of more than 220m wide. What is worse, the width of the properties is not really related to either their gross area, nor to their developable area (even though all of the properties are zoned commercial). Nonetheless, the regulation insists that assessment must be based on frontage. Any adjustment for lot shape or for unusable land that is made to make the assessment more “just and equitable” comes off the individual assessments and goes onto the municipal share of the cost.

What is the result? In an attempt to mitigate the expense of this million dollar project, the municipality has shifted over $175,000 onto its shoulders, $82,000 into over-sizing costs to be recovered some day when the Point Pelee Drive sewer is built, and has left just under $700,000 in costs to be borne by properties comprising a kilometre of the total length this project will cover.

There is no easy solution when trying to address this pressing need for sewers — that is why Leamington administration have already spent almost three years working at it. Further, there is no way to make the project affordable to the approximately ten landowners who would have to pay the local improvement special charges: even doing their utmost to adjust costs, the individual charges would range from a low of over $13,000 to a high of over $125,000.

That is why at Monday night’s council meeting, Leamington councillors voted to defeat a motion to apply for permission to proceed under the local improvements provisions of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs. Rather, they have sent the matter back to administration asking them to brainstorm alternatives (if any), and have recognized that construction is unlikely to ever start unless substantial funds become available from senior levels of government.

CILISKA EXCAVATING

Council Shorts for September 10

25th Anniversary Celebration

BILL CHAPLIN

Monday evening, Sept. 10, Leamington Municipal Council granted Cardinal Carter Secondary School a noise by-law exemption for the evening of Saturday, October 6. The school is celebrating its 25th anniversary that weekend, and will be having outdoor music in their rear courtyard as part of the festivities.

Municipal Correspondent

Blanket Resolution Passed

To assist the process of getting non-residential rooftop solar panels Feed in Tariff contracts from the Ontario Power Corporation, Leamington Council endorsed a Ministry-worded resolution supporting all such projects in the municipality.

Under the FIT Program, proposed projects are rated on a points system that prioritizes applications for approval. A municipality’s endorsement carries two points, while Aboriginal support, project readiness, an Education or Health Host, and a system benefit also contribute points. The more points a project has, the higher it goes on the list of priority projects. So, Municipal Council decided that it would follow the lead of other municipalities and extend blanket support to all proposed projects in its jurisdiction.

Skateboard Park Committee

Mid-October, last year, a delegation of students petitioned Leamington Municipal Council to consider the feasibility of a skateboard park.

Monday evening, Sept. 10, Amanda Smith, Manager of Culture and Recreation, presented council with proposed terms of reference for a Skateboard Park Committee. Basically, the committee would be charged with determining the degree of support for such a park in Leamington. When the committee reports to Council, if there seems to be sufficient support, the committee would then continue to investigate more closely the specifics of what such a park should have, what it would cost to create, and what it would require to maintain with reasonable risk management.

The report was adopted by Council, and advertising for the committee can be expected very soon.

Fish die-off a natural occurrence

An investigation by the Ministry of the Environment points to the cause of the widespread Lake Erie fish kill to be a natural occurrence.

The testing has revealed no pollution or spill. It appears there was an up-welling of organic debris and unoxygenated water from the bottom of the lake into the surface layer, creating a sewage-like smell and killing the fish.

Chatham-Kent Public Utilities, as a precaution, increased sampling of the water since the occurrence. Dr. David Colby, Chatham-Kent Medical Officer of Health, notes that results indicate no need for additional treatment of the water and that the quality of the drinking water has never been impaired.

In terms of potential human hazard, Dr. Colby believes this to be primarily an environmental, not health, issue and no special precautions are advised.

Two Creeks Memorial Sunday to feature The Laws

Nearly 20 trees will be dedicated Sept. 16 during the annual Two Creeks Conservation Area Memorial Sunday.

All are invited to attend the 2 p.m. ecumenical service under the pavilion, which will feature music by The Laws.

The groves commemorate important events and people in the lives of residents, and help with the reforestation of the conservation area by planting native Carolinian tree species (www.carolinian.org/index.htm).

Species include sugar maples, tulip trees, red maples, Kentucky coffee trees and cucumber magnolias.

Marjan Willett, who coordinates the program, said more trees need to be planted everywhere, and that Two Creeks provides “yourself, our community and future generations with a beautiful and useful Memorial Grove. Furthermore, trees generate clean air, provide climate control and watershed management and are a haven for wildlife. And last but not least, trees are beautiful.”

Those being remembered this year include: Harry and Mary Lynn, Carl Epplett, Janet Gordon, Tim Reidy, Shirley Catherine Inrig, Marilyn Jane Pearce, Edith and Dick Overholt, Fred Omstead, Ann and Kay Matheson, Ken Dick, Jim Spring, Ken Snider, Don Reid, Ken Whitesell, Floyd Harris, Albert Taylor, Alf Williams and Jack Baker.

For more information on Two Creeks or the program, call Marjan Willett at 519825-7369; e-mail info@ twocreeks.ca; or visit the website at twocreeks.ca

The conservation area is just north of Wheatley on Kent Rd. 1.

Project X Christian music fest at UMEI this weekend

YouTube Singer Marc Martel and Downhere, his band of 10 years, will be featured as a headliner at the 5th Annual Project X Festival, September 14-16, at UMEI Christian High School.

Also appearing at this year’s event are speaker Paul Dabdoub, Aaron Gillespie (former drummer of hardcore band Underoath), alt-rock band The Almost, Grammy winners Jars Of Clay, hip-hop artist KJ-52 and London’s ToTell, a featured performer at Sarnia’s Bayfest.

Essex County talent at the event includes worship leader Brianne Danter, Faithful Unto Death and the Weapons Dance Team.

Visit www.project-x-online.com for a wristband and ticket information for attendees over 10 years of age. Children 10 and under admission is $5 and available at the gate only.

Project X is underwritten by a group of Essex County businesses, ministries and churches who share the vision to provide a positive event that reinforces the spiritual values of the next generation.

Project X offers a message of hope in a difficult time. “We want people of all ages to leave Project X with a clear sense of direction and purpose that is found in the teachings of Jesus,” says organizer George Bergen. “We just aim to say it in the language they understand.”

HIGH QUALITY LICENSED CHILD CARE

Offered at 4 schools in Leamington & Kingsville. Ages 18 months - 12 years 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. • Subsidy available. For details call 519-733-8202 www.discoverychildcareschools.com

THE LEAMINGTON KIWANIS CLUB IS A SERVICE ORGANIZATION. Meetings are held twice a month, the first and third Thursday. If you are a non-profit organization and would like a meeting place on weekdays, or if you are interested in learning more about our organization, or to have us involved in your community, please contact Leo at 519 325-0953.

SEPTEMBER 11 - OCTOBER 16 - FREE 6-Week

Just for Moms and Babies Class. WindsorEssex County Health Unit, 215 Talbot Street East, Leamington, ON N8H 3X5. Tuesdays –10:00 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. New mothers face many challenges when they bring a baby home from the hospital. To help mothers with their new babies and the transition to motherhood, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit will be holding a 6-week “Just for Moms and Babies” series in Leamington. Mothers meet with other new mothers and share and learn from each other’s experiences. These free, informal groups are facilitated by a Public Health Nurse and are for mothers with new babies up to 6 months of age. To register, call 519-326-5716 ext. 2100.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 - Eldercollege Open House and Registration, from 1:00-1:30 p.m. at Pelee Island Winery, 455 Seacliff Dr., Kingsville. Over 50 course including winery education, exploring lost and ghost communities, art, politics, health, recreation, music, photography, politics, and much, much more. Registration also available online anytime during fall semester Sept. 17 to Dec. 7. For info contact Catherine Fettes 519-253-3000 ext. 4944 or fettesc@uwindsor.ca

3rd annual Innovation Showcase

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 - 4:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Broasted Chicken Dinner at Olinda-Ruthven, 1907 Queen Blvd., Ruthven. Adults $14, children $7, under 5 free. Support persons for people with special needs FREE. Takeout available. No tickets necessary. Air-conditioned. Call 519-3262506 or 519-326-4570.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 - the final meeting of the year for the Ontario Purple Martin Association will be held at the Orchard View Golf Course, 1357 County Rd. 34, north of Ruthven at 9 a.m. Please bring your colony stats. For further info call 519-776-5777.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 - The Migrant Worker Community Program is hosting FIESTA PARTIAS

– Celebration of Two Cultures (Mexico & Canada) from 3-7 p.m. on Queens Avenue in Uptown Leamington. Entertainment, Mariachi band, ethnic food and fun. Free event. Everyone welcome. Bring a lawn chair. In case of rain, event at Leamington United Church, 9 John St. W.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 - The Essex County Orchid Society meeting, 1:30 p.m., St. Stephan’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave., Windsor. Guest speaker: Eric Lee of Newmarket. Topic: Growing Cattleyas for Success. Orchids available for sale. Bring a friend and enjoy a great afternoon with other orchid enthusiasts. More info at www.essexcountyorchidsociety.webs.com.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 - LAERC

(Leamington Area Ecumenical Refugee Committee) Golf Tournament at Erie Shores Golf Club. Prize of hole-in-one $10,000, straightest drive, closest to pin, closest to golfer. $80 includes 18 holes, power cart, dinner and a $25

Driver suffers medical issues; spike belt deployed

On Sept. 7 at about 3 p.m., a 68-year-old Cottam man was travelling northbound on Essex County Road 31 in Leamington, near Leisure Lake Campground. Police were alerted to his erratic driving by another motorist and attempted to stop him.

The man was travelling at a very low speed but would not stop for police. A spike belt was deployed and was effective in stopping the vehicle. Investigation revealed that the man was having a medical issue and was taken by ambulance to hospital for treatment.

There were no injuries, public safety was not at risk and no charges will be laid. Two police cruisers were minimally damaged in the incident.

tax receipt. Cheques payable to LAERC. Tee times start at 12:30 p.m. Sign up by Mon. Sept.17, please. Dinner only tickets also available. For info call Roby Dyck 519-322-6868, Carolyn Reid 519-326-6776 or register with Joel at Erie Shores.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 - WEF is launching an extended chapter of The Women’s Economic Forum for Leamington and area. There will be a Membership Drive September 19 from 5:30 -7:30 pm at Pelee Island Winery. Light appetizers will be provided along with wine available for purchase by the glass. Our first meeting will be held October 17 at Pelee Days Inn Conference Centre where an interview with Patty Meuser-Kristy (Nature Fresh Farms) will follow our opening dinner/networking meeting. Check out www.womenseconomicforum.com for more information or call Rose Marie Roach 519-324-9536.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 - The Pelee Past Questers is a local organization whose purpose is the study of antiques, preservation and restoration of artifacts, existing memorials, historical buildings, landmarks and education. Drop-ins are encouraged to attend the next Questers meeting, 7:30 p.m., 884 Talbot Road, Wheatley. Program: mustard pots. Info: Jackie 519-326-1361.

SATURDAY,

Art enthusiasts enjoy the works of local artists during the third annual Art and Innovation Showcase, held at the UMEI cha-

pel Sunday, Sept. 9. Many of the admirers of the show made the short trip from the school’s gymnasium after the annual fish fry dinner. (SUN Photos)

Edgar Konrad’s ‘A New Robe’ was one of the Art and Innovation Showcase woodworking entries this year. (SUN Photo)

Preparing your compost for next year

Compost increases fertility, buffers pH and improves soil structure, so here is my secret formula to compost. First thing, never use bones, meat scraps, dairy products, seedy weeds or diseased plants, dog manure and especially kitty litter.

In the back yard...

In the fall, dried leaves, hay, straw, sawdust, woodchips, and shrub and tree pruning waste are acceptable but will take a longer roasting period. Always cut larger material into pieces 2 inches or smaller, or use a wood chipper if available.

During the rest of the year, green matter breaks down the best. Fruit and vegetable scraps and grass clippings will promote heat quickly, breaking down the waste, as will coffee grounds, tea bags and uncomposted manure from cows, goats and horses or poultry.

Compost this manure only if you combine it with lots of vegetable waste. Use a 3 to 1 ratio, making the vegetable waste the greater amount. Cover the pile with straw and let the pile heat up for 10 to 15 days. When the temperature inside reaches 140º to 150º Farenheit, pull off the straw cap and turn the pile by pushing it over and dividing it. Reassemble the pile and cover with straw. When the centre temperature reaches 140º to 150ºF, turn again. Repeat this 3 to 4 times during a 6-month period. A barbecue thermometer works well to check the compost temperature. If necessary, add water if the material becomes dry. This also helps the process.

The more often you turn the pile, the quicker it will break down into compost. The smaller the pieces, the faster it will compost. I use my push lawnmower over larger pieces and leathery leaves before adding them to the pile.

If this is your first year, picking up bagged compost seems simple enough. The problem is, not all compost is created equally. Some manufacturers use sewage sludge or bio solids. This material can be laced with virtually anything that homeowners, hospitals and industrial plants put down their sinks. Who wants to grow vegetables in that?

Municipal composting or bagged compost sold in stores is best used for mulching and top dressing in flowerbeds. I prefer my own homemade compost for the vegetable garden. The good news is thatsewage sludge is strictly banned in organic agriculture. However, many non-organic farmers do use it to grow food crops, as long as it passes

government guidelines.

Composting household vegetable scraps and yard waste is a great way of making a dent in the problem of landfills and creating a healthier lifestyle. Your comments and questions are always welcome. Email inthebackyard74@yahoo.ca

Registration open for Taking Steps Against Breast Cancer Walk

Registration is open for the Canadian Cancer Society’s Taking Steps Against Breast Cancer Community Walk – every step makes a difference.

The walk — taking place Sunday, October 14 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon — is a fun and easy way to raise funds to support breast cancer research by walking a 1-5 km outdoor loop from the Kinsmen Recreation Complex, along Erie Street and the beautiful Seacliff Drive in Leamington.

Celebrate at the Breast Cancer Survivor Tribute. Register as a team, individual or survivor. There is no fee, but participants raising $100 in pledges receive a t-shirt. Pets are welcome but must be leashed.

Register now at www.takingsteps.ca or call Deb at 519-326-6199 or 254-5116.”

BILL PLUMB

Shawn Rodger of Bayfield, Ont. starts the evening with Farmer’s Fun in

Mod Farm division during a Southwestern Ontario Trator Pullers Association event at Leamington Fairgrounds

Sept. 8. (SUN Photo)

Ken Elliott of Wheatley performs his first pull of the night in Southwestern Ontario Tractor Pullers Association’s 9,30010,000 Super Farm class. The Saturday, Sept. 8 event was hosted by The Leamington Fairgrounds. (SUN Photo)

Cardinal Carter Corner

Welcome back! The staff at Cardinal Carter extends a warm welcome to all students as they return for the 20122013 school year. They especially welcome students new to the school and sincerely hope that they enjoy their high school experience at CC. There are also a few new faces on staff this year. Welcome to the new Vice Principal, Mr. Jim. Kittl, as well as Ms. Bernadette Raffoul in English, Ms. Melissa Danese in English, Mr. John D’Amore in Co-op, Mr. Charbel Taouil in Math, Ms. Margherita Vespa in English, and Mr. John Zanutto in Co-op. Mr. Keith Rowland is the new computer technician, and the new Educational Assistants are: Ms. Lisa Dick, Ms. Erin Dancey, Ms. Christina Caetano, Ms. Maureen Gillanders and Mr. Clarence Weiler. Everyone as CC wishes Mrs. Mamie Diab all the best in her retirement and would like to congratulate Mr. Jeff Tellier on his appointment as Guidance Department Head. Joining Mr. Tellier in guidance is Mr. Rick Gori. Ms. Katie Logan will be taking on the role of Student Success Teacher this year.

CC’s major fundraising initiative, the Cardinal Carter Lottery, will kick off Sept. 13 and wrap up Oct. 9. Please support the lottery and the programs it helps to fund at CC.

Parents are encouraged to attend the School Council meeting and elections on Sept. 19 at 6:30 p.m. in the school library. A special invitation is extended to parents new to the school to join the School Council Committee.

Parents of grade 9 students are reminded of the grade 9 open house to be held Thurs. Sept. 20 at 7 p.m.

What else is happening at Cardinal Carter?

Local greenhouse honoured for innovation

Ontario’s agri-food industry is leading the way with innovative products and ideas that are bringing more locally grown food to the dinner table.

These innovations were celebrated Aug. 29 at a ceremony in Ridgetown honouring 10 regional winners of the Premier’s Awards for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence — recognizing innovators who contribute to the success of Ontario’s agri-food sector.

Among the recipients was Great Northern Hydrophonics of Kingsville. Great Northern Hydroponics delivers the fresh taste of homegrown tomatoes year-round. The company expanded its 50-acre facility by building a new 14-acre tomato greenhouse, the first of its kind to use high-density light fixtures in Ontario. These fixtures create photosynthetic energy to sustain production. The combination of innovative greenhouse and light design is yielding improved production, efficiency, and high quality tomatoes. As a result, more people can enjoy tomatoes that are grown here at home 12 months of the year

A total of 50 regional awards are being handed out across Ontario this summer. From these, five recipients will be chosen and awarded with a Premier’s Award, a Minister’s Awards and three Leaders in Innovation Awards at the Premier’s Summit on Agri-Food in October.

The Cardinal Carter community is excited about the upcoming 25th anniversary reunion celebration. Homecoming 2012 will be held Sat. Oct. 6. There will be an open house from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. featuring a light lunch, mass, special presentations, clowns and face painting, displays from the past 25 years and alumni/student sports activities. Evening events will run from 6 p.m. to midnight and include a gourmet tapasstyle dinner, musical entertainment and photo booth. Tickets may be purchased at the CC main office, or at Jose’s Noodle Factory. For further information and to register as a CC alumnus, see the website: www. cchomecoming.com.

Correction

Re: “Cake Boss Comes to Leamington”. Lori Taylor of the Transportation Department at Westmoreland Sales arranged for pick-up of MacKenzie Mastronardi’s birthday cake from Hoboken, New Jersey, not Louis Taylor as stated in the story.

PRESENTS

CELTIC�THUNDER

Sunday, September 16

JANN�ARDEN� Friday, September 21

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK Friday, October 5

BELLATOR���� Friday, October 12

TRIBUTE��A�SALUTE�TO THE�SUPERSTARS

Tributes to Neil Diamond, Garth Brooks, Rod Stewart and Tina Turner. Thursday, October 18

FOREIGNER� Friday, October 19

THE�AUSTRALIAN� PINK�FLOYD�SHOW A Spectacular Tribute Show! Saturday, October 27

VINCE�GILL� Saturday, November 3

WANDA�SYKES� Friday, November 9

SO�YOU�THINK�YOU�CAN�DANCE TOUR������ Saturday, November 10

SUPERTRAMP’S ROGER�HODGSON� Sunday, November 18

CESAR�MILLAN Friday, November 23

THE�BRIAN�SETZER�ORCHESTRA Christmas Rocks! Extravaganza Saturday, November 24

Tickets on sale now!

MOSCOW�BALLET’S� GREAT�RUSSIAN�NUTCRACKER Friday, November 30

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ERCA applauds signing of Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) is encouraged by and strongly supports the recent changes to the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. The Great Lakes are a very important resource for many reasons: they are a source of drinking water for over nine million Ontarians, they provide significant ecological functions, and they are an invaluable economic asset enabling important activities in shipping, fishing, tourism, and energy production.

The original agreement was signed by Canada and the United States in 1972 to tackle water quality issues in the Great Lakes, especially nutrient loadings which were causing harmful algae blooms in Lake Erie. Changes to the agreement in 1987 brought a greater focus to toxic contaminants, especially in 43 Areas of Concern, including the Detroit River.

“Most people would suggest that the agreement is one of the most successful international environmental agreements of all time,” explains Richard Wyma, ERCA’s General Manager.

Investments in municipal sewage treatment plant upgrades and detergent regulations in the 1970s dramatically reduced algae in the lakes. Substantial effort and investment has been made to clean up the Areas of Concern, resulting in the successful cleanup of Wheatley Harbour and its removal from the AOC list in 2010. Good progress has also been made on many of Detroit River priorities including water quality and habitat improvements.

However, more work remains to be done. “In the last several years, there has been a worrisome trend about the increase of phosphorus loadings to Lake Erie and elsewhere, which has resulted in a worsening of algal blooms,” Wyma goes on to say. “Collectively, we can’t let our guard down, but must continue to focus on water quality enhancement and habitat restoration priorities.”

The amended Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement signed by both Canada and the United States on Friday, September 7 is the first change to the agreement in 25 years. “The enhanced emphasis of the agreement on the overall Great Lakes ecosystem is encouraging,” said Wyma. “A sharpened focus on managing phosphorus and other nutrients from rural and urban land uses will lead to a reduction in the environmentally damaging harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie and elsewhere.”

The new agreement goes into areas the previous one did not, which will help to address the significant challenges that remain to fully restoring the Great Lakes ecosystem. “For the first time, the agreement includes a very specific focus on broader ecosystem health priorities such as aquatic invasive species like Asian carp, habitats and species, and climate change,” added Matthew Child, Director of Watershed Restoration. “The agreement envisions progress being made on these priorities by working collaboratively on a watershed basis by combining good science with practical solutions.”

Some of the actions outlined in the agreement include: developing achievable, science-based phosphorus reduction targets for Lake Erie to take action in combating the algae issue; developing and implementing an early invasive species detection and rapid response system; and lake-wide habitat and species protection and restoration conservation strategies for each of the Great Lakes.

Completing the job of Great Lakes cleanup will rely heavily on landowners and residents. “Coordinating our activities across levels of government and working together with our communities is essential to making additional progress,” Wyma emphasizes. “In our region, because so much of our land base is held in private ownership, the large majority of actions and decisions that affect Great Lakes water quality and habitat are those of each resident. We all need to take personal responsibility for impacts at the local level, with appropriate assistance from our public agencies.”

The Essex Region Conservation Authority is a community-based organization dedicated to protecting, restoring and managing the natural resources of the Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island region.

Leamington Br. 84 Legion news

Please Note: There will be a SPECIAL MEETING on Wed. Sept. 19 at 7 p.m.

Sports: Everyone is welcome to join Friday night fun darts, starting at 8 p.m. Cost is only $2. Winners from Aug. 31 were Spanky and Craig. There is a Dart Tournament (Mixed) Doubles, draw for partners, on Sat. Sept. 22. Cost is $5. Registration is at noon and play begins at 1 p.m. Come one, come all!

On Sat. Oct. 6, Leamington Br. 84 is hosting the first Zone Progressive Euchre Tournament. Teams of 4, cost $20. Registration deadline is Sept. 22. Dayof-tournament registration

By Lisa Cowen-Tehonchuk

is 11:30 a.m. with play beginning at 12:30. You must be a member in good standing to participate. There is a sign-up sheet at the Branch.

Junior Darts start Oct. 13 at 9:30 a.m. Cost is $2 and includes a hotdog and pop. Ages 7 to 18 years of age welcome. Come have fun and learn a new activity. If a child does not have darts, the Branch will supply them with some to use.

Branch Happenings: The hypnotist scheduled for Sept. 29 has been cancelled and rescheduled for Sat. Nov. 24. Roast beef dinner at 6 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Make sure you get your ticket

New national report card says Canada’s municipal infrastructure “at risk”

Canada’s municipal infrastructure is at risk, with more than half of municipal roads requiring significant repairs and one in four wastewater plants needing major upgrades. This was the key finding of the first-ever Canadian Infrastructure Report Card, a major study released Sept. 11 by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and three industry partner organizations.

“The report card shows that core municipal infrastructure like roads and water systems, assets critical to Canada’s health, safety and economic prosperity, are at risk,” said FCM President Karen Leibovici, speaking Sept. 11 at a news conference in Ottawa. “Investments in infrastructure over the last few years have helped, but without long-term action we are still headed for a crisis.”

The report card, which surveyed more than 120 municipalities representing 60% of the Canadian population, says more than half of municipal roads are falling apart beneath our tires. One in four roads is over capacity, transporting far more people and goods than it was designed to handle. And one in four wastewater treatment plants needs to be upgraded or replaced to meet new federal standards introduced this summer, at a cost of at least $20 billion.

Without immediate improvement and ongoing maintenance, the cost of fixing or replacing the assets studied will explode over the next decade.

“Two billion dollars in federal funding for local governments is going to lapse by March 2014,” Leibovici said. “The new federal long-term infrastructure plan is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to put our essential infrastructure back on solid ground. Municipalities are ready to work with all partners — federal, provincial, territorial, and the private sector — to fix the problem once and for all.”

The FCM partnered with the Canadian Construction Association (CCA), the Canadian Public Works Association (CPWA) and the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE) to deliver the report card. This marks the first time a group of national stakeholders worked together to measure the state and performance of municipal infrastructure from one end of Canada to the other.

This first edition of the report card measured the condition of municipal roads, drinking

water, wastewater, and storm water systems. Future studies, which the FCM and its partners plan to release on a regular basis, will look at other assets such as housing and transit.

The full report card, as well as background information and supporting documents, can be viewed at www.canadainfrastructure.ca

Source: Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

early. For more info, stop by the Branch at 27 Erie. St. N. or call 519-326-0073.

Membership has gone up $5 across the board. Come on out each and every Saturday for the weekly meat draw. First draw is at 3:30 p.m. and the last one is at 5 p.m. There is now something extra and new at the meat draws. Come on out to find out what’s going on. Everyone is welcome.

First Annual Leamington Fairgrounds Car Show

One of the most unique entries of the first annual Leamington Fairgrounds Car Show was this 1969 Lotus Europa, owned by George Fast.

RIGHT: Mark Ouellette puts the shine on his 1922 Ford Model T.

ABOVE: Representing the renowned muscle car era was this 1965 Impala SS, powered by a 327 cubic inch small block V8 Chevrolet engine.

Camaro of Paul and Anne Reid, beside the 1968 Ford Mustang of Shannon Dresser. (SUN Photos)

Tropical plants flourish in warm southwest climate

You don’t have to live in the Caribbean to enjoy heat, sunshine and tropical plants. One Wheatley area resident has a three-year-old banana tree, which has reached about 16 feet tall. The tree has been left outside year-round and although it does not bear fruit it’s a beautiful addition to the usual Carolinian landscape. She also has a three-year-old fig tree, which is bearing fruit this year for the first time. Another tropical plant that has fared well in the southern climate is the Mimosa tree or silk tree, which produces large cotton candy-like balls of pink fuzz. It is found in Mexico, Uruguay and Central America, but is widely cultivated in warm climate areas for its curiosity value. (SUN Photos)

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Above: The brilliant Mimosa or silk tree flower.

Right: A banana tree growing between Wheatley and Leamington.

The Southpoint Minor Hockey Association officially began over the past weekend, which included an atom major travel game against the visiting Riverside Rangers Saturday, Sept. 8. The quick and agile Rangers won the game 7-0. Brady Bunda battles two Riverside players just after a first period face off for a bouncing loose puck.

The Churches of Leamington and District Welcome You

ANGLICAN

St. John The Evangelist

60 Erie Street N., Leamington

519-326-3111

Sunday Worship Services

8:30 & 10:30 a.m.

St. Mary’s Church

East West Road, Pelee Island

1st & 3rd Sundays from June to September at 10 a.m.

Calvary Church

North Shore Road, Pelee Island 1st & 3rd Sundays from October to May at 10 a.m.

BAPTIST

Calvary Baptist Church 475 Bevel Line Road, Leamington 519-326-0876

Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

First Baptist Church

3 Fox Street, Leamington 519-326-4372

Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m.

CONGREGATIONALIST

Faith Everlasting Congregational Church 589 Hwy 77, Leamington 519-322-2994

Sunday Worship 11 a.m.

L

220 Erie St. N., Leamington 519-322-1644

Saturday Services: Bible Study 9:30 am Worship 11:00 am

LUTHERAN

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

311 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-3966

Sunday Worship Services

9:30 a.m. (German), 10:30 a.m. (English)

Sonshine Lutheran

194 Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-398-8179

Thurs. Bible Study 7 p.m.

Worship Sercvice Every Sunday 10:00 am

MENNONITE

Faith Mennonite Church

269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-6391

Sunday Worship Services

10:50 a.m. (Summer 10 a.m.)

Leamington Evangelical Mennonite Mission Church 1408 Deer Run Rd, Leamington 519-326-9734

Sunday Worship Services 9:15 a.m. (German), 10:45 a.m. (English)

Leamington Evangelical Mennonite Church 108 Mersea Rd 3, Leamington 519-322-9915

Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

Leamington United Mennonite Church 78 Oak Street East, Leamington 519-326-2727

Sunday Worship 9:45 a.m.

Summer Worship Services

9:30 a.m. (German), 10:15 a.m. (English)

Meadow Brook Fellowship 219 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-326-3605

Sunday Worship Services

9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.

North Leamington United Mennonite Church 625 Mersea Rd 6, Leamington 519-326-7928

Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m.

South Point Community Church 55A Talbot St. W., Leamington 519-322-1858

Sunday Gatherings 10 a.m.

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Iglesia La Buena Semilla 269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-733-0342

Sunday Worship 6:30 p.m.

Leamington District Memorial Hospital

194 Talbot St. W., Leamington 519-326-2373, Chaplain’s Office ext. 4443

PENTECOSTAL

FGT Family Church

285 Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-322-2316

Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m.

Leamington Christian Centre 98 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-322-1504

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 a.m.

English/Spanish 6:30 p.m.

Templo Christiano De Leamington

39 Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-325-9654

Sunday Worship Services 3 p.m.

Mount Zion Full TabernacleGospel

6 Mill Street, Leamington 519-252-0031

Sunday Worship 7:30 p.m.

United Pentecostal Church

312 Erie St. St., Leamington 519-326-7056

Sunday Worship Services 11 a.m.

PRESBYTERIAN

Knox Presbyterian Church

58 Erie St. S., Leamington 519-326-4541

Sunday Worship Services 11 a.m.

ROMAN CATHOLIC

St. Michael’s Parish

29 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-326-2643

Sunday Masses: 7:30 a.m. (English) 10:30 am (English/Children’s Liturgy) 10:30 am (OLBS, Wheatley, English)

3 pm (Spanish), 7 pm (Youth)

St. Joseph’s Church

310 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-2643

Saturday Mass: 5 p.m. (English)

Sunday Masses: 9 am (Italian, English) Noon (Portuguese, English)

St. Anthony’s Parish (Maronite Rite)

280 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-322-2282

Sunday Masses 9:30 & 11 a.m. (Lebanese, English)

SALVATION ARMY

The Salvation Army Citadel

88 Setterington Street

Leamington 519-326-4901

Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA

Leamington United Church 9 John Street, Leamington 519-326-9461

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 a.m.

Mersea United Church 1301 Mersea Road 8, Wheatley 519-825-4157

Sunday Worship Services 9:30 a.m.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

Unitarian Universalist Church of Olinda 2953 Olinda Sideroad, Ruthven 519-326-4352

Sunday Service 10:30 a.m.

Drag racers wrap up points chase

The Grand Bend Motorplex wrapped up their points chase Labour Day weekend and Essex County can boast three champions. Mark and Carol Gubinski from Essex have captured the Mod ET title with their Expert Auto Glass sponsored 1972 Ford Gran Torino. LaSalle’s Ed and Liz Smith are the Top ET champs in their Amherst Quarries sponsored 2011 American chassis dragster. And son Benny Smith is the Extreme 32 champion with his Lizard Racing 2002 Undercover dragster.

Meanwhile, in racing action on Sat. Sept. 1, Amherstburg’s Chelsie Duffy won the junior dragster class over point champ Ryan Paquette from Strathroy. Joe Piper from Harrow settled for second place in Mod ET with his 1974 Mercury Comet. The winner was Strathroy’s Shawn Laughton in a 1991 Chevy S10. Top Et saw recently crowned champ Ed Smith

run 7.36 seconds at 174 mph to dispose of Dustin Brighton’s 1972 Plymouth Duster out of Wingham.

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Tecumseh’s Ken Hebert found himself in two final rounds on Sun. Sept. 2. In Mod ET he was runner-up in his 2005 VW Beetle to first-time winner Brian Heans from Fergus in a 1978 Chevy Malibu. In Top ET, another first-time winner, Michigan’s Dani Quesnelle used her 1996 RaceCraft dragster to beat the 1995 Spitzer chassis dragster of Hebert. In the Junior Consi class Windsor’s Luca Pizzo was runner-up to London’s Chase Brown. Points champ Madison Bishop from Petrolia defeated Carlie Duffy from Amherstburg in the finals of junior dragster. Also at the Mid-Michigan Motorplex near Stanton, Michigan Windsor’s Meighan Bonnett won the junior dragster title over Adam Walters.

CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL

2012 Top ET Champion Ed Smith (right) and 2012 Extreme 32 Champion Benny Smith (left).

2012 Mod ET Champion Mark and Carol Gubinski.

Sharks lose home opener to Dresden

By Bryan Jessop

The Wheatley Sharks may have lost their season opener, but head coach Ken Galerno wasn’t completely discouraged by what he saw against the visiting Dresden Kings.

The Sharks, carrying a large rookie contingent of rookies, got their 2012-13 Great Lakes Junior ‘C’ season started Monday, Sept. 10 against the Kings. The hosts surrendered a pair of two-goal leads in what eventually became a 4-3 regulation loss.

“We looked like a very young, inexperienced team,” said Sharks head coach Ken Galerno. “We’ve got 12, 13 rookies, which is a lot of guys playing their first-ever junior hockey game. I believe they’ll learn from it — this is a smart group of kids.”

Both teams played the first period with a great degree of caution, consistently trading power play opportunities, but very little in the way of scoring chances. The Kings had a 9-7 shots advantage at the first buzzer.

It appeared as though two different teams in the same jerseys took to the ice for the second period, as the game became faster and more physical. Seconds after the Kings nearly opened the scoring, Brett Bowman did the honours of netting the first Sharks goal of the season, knocking a loose puck past Kings netminder Brent Paxton. Kevin Sawatzky earned an assist.

The Sharks struck again about three-and-a-half minutes later, when Jon Woelk fired a shot that was deflected before crossing the goal line for a 2-0 Wheatley advantage. Eric Rivard and Zach Wilson drew assists. Jeremy Griffore of the Kings pulled his team to within a goal before Brendon Anger re-established the Sharks’ two-goal cushion after taking a perfect pass from Bowman.

The 3-1 score stood for only 15 seconds however, as Dylan Mertz pulled Dresden to within one for the second time. The teams took fewer penalties during the middle frame, but scoring chances were abundant, as suggested by the 12-11 shots on goal totals, favouring the Kings.

Inexperience started becoming evident in the third, when the Sharks struggled to clear their own zone of the puck. The Kings, most notably Macks Holmes, took advantage of the ongoing situation, netting the game-tying and winning goals about five minutes apart. The final marker was the only power play goal of the game — the Sharks went zero for five while the Kings managed one for five. Total shots on net were 32-27 favouring Dresden.

“It looked like we got over the rookie jitters after a 0-0 first period, but it was actually some veterans that started taking liberties after that,” said Galerno. “We didn’t use the opportunities to get the puck out of our end and it became a feeding frenzy for the other team. That’s something we’ll work on at our Wednesday practice.”

The Sharks’ second game will also be at home, slotted for Monday, Sept. 17 against the Mooretown Flags. The next day will bring the Sharks to Essex for their first road game of the season. The challenging road trip will continue Friday, Sept. 21 in Belle River against the Canadiens before the Sharks return home Monday, Sept. 24 for a 7:30 p.m. start against the Blenheim Blades.

ABOVE: The line-up for the 2012-13 Wheatley Sharks is introduced to a crowd of 220 fans for the team’s season opener, held at Wheatley Area Arena Monday, Sept. 10. The Sharks lost 4-3 to the Dresden Kings.

LEFT:

BELOW: Jon Woelk of the Wheatley Sharks is upended by a Dresden defenseman while carrying the puck towards the Kings net. Wheatley lost the season and home opener 4-3.

Brendon Anger (19), Kevin Sawatzky and Brett Bowman (partially hidden) celebrate the Sharks’ first goal of the season, against the Dresden Kings, during Wheatley’s home opener Monday, Sept. 10. The Kings won 4-3.

(SUN Photos)

Flyers edge out 4-3 win over Sarnia

Fans who attended the 201213 home and season opener for the Leamington Flyers weren’t expecting much of a cliffhanger by mid-game, but that’s what they received.

The Flyers jumped out to a commanding 4-0 lead against the visiting Sarnia Legionnaires during the Thursday, Sept. 6 contest, but ended up squeaking by with a 4-3 victory. Leamington controlled the game’s pace through most of the first period and dominated the first half of the second stanza. Legionnaires head coach Dan Rose, however, must have offered some effective words to his players during a mid-game timeout, as Sarnia’s offense heated up through the reminder of the contest while its defense slammed the door on Flyer attackers from that point onward.

By Bryan Jessop

Tony Spidalieri accomplished the rare feat of earning his team’s first goal and first assist of the season, starting by breaking up a zone clearing attempt by the Legionnaires defense that ended in a backhand shot to solve netminder Sean Parker. The unassisted goal was the only mark on the scoresheet through the opening 20 minutes, where the Flyers enjoyed a 17-9 shots on net advantage.

Leamington’s team captain and 2011-12 points leader Alex Seguin scored on a perfect cross-crease pass from Spidalieri early in the second. David Dalby was also credited with an assist. Riley Babkirk opened his team’s lead even further with the Flyers’ only power play marker of the game, taking passes from Brett Langlois and Kyle Bowman. With about twelve-and-a-half minutes left in the second period, Leamington defenders Nick Beaune and Cole Chevalier set up Bryce Doan with a scoring opportunity that ended with Doan sliding an ice-level backhander past Parker’s left pad. Most of the 397 spectators attending the game probably didn’t expect the Doan marker to become the gamewinner, but Sarnia forwards, with some help from Leamington penalties, took control of the game’s tempo from its midway point. Both of the Legionnaires‘ second period goals were scored during power plays — by Zack Tuchklaper and Brent Sauve — to pull the visitors within two at the 40-minute buzzer. Shots on goal through the middle period were even at nine apiece. Sarnia kept the pressure on through most of the third frame, although their efforts were not rewarded until Matt Cimetta beat Flyer goalie Matt Mancina for the final time with just over four minutes on the clock — again during a Legionnaire power play. Leamington’s penalty killing unit did come through at a crucial moment however, as it successfully fended off a Sarnia fiveon-three advantage for a minute and 38 seconds. Sarnia took the shots on net advantage through the third, 13-9.

Western Conference volunteer of the year award and the Windsor Essex Sports Person of the Year award for male volunteer. Holland performed the ceremonial season-starting puck drop between Leamington and Sarnia team captains.

There was little time for the Flyers to enjoy their first win of the season, as the team packed its equipment for its first road game of the year the next day against the Lincolns in St. Marys. The Flyers won the game 5-4, bringing Leamington’s early-season record to 2-0-0 — good for first place in the Western Conference.

“Overall, I thought we were alright,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski.

“We heard early on that they’re (St. Marys) a big, physical and experienced team, so we knew we had our work cut out for us,” said Piroski. “It’s a small rink and a lot of our new guys have never played in a building like that.”

Langlois, Dalby and Spidalieri responded to an early Lincolns goal for a 3-1lead going into the second period.

From there, the teams traded goals, beginnning with a St. Marys tally 89 seconds into the middle frame. Joe Manchurek scored late in the second while defenseman Dakota Olvin provided the Flyers with the game winner. Olvin also added two assists on the night in a game where Leamington outshot its host 41-37. The Flyers were three-for-nine on the power play while the Lincs went two-for-12. Austyn Roudebush earned the win in net for Leamington, in ad-

“Overall, I thought we were alright,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski. “We started off really well, but then got into a defensive shell — forwards wanted to play defense, defense wanted to play net. We’re a little rough around the edges, but we can work on that. Fortunately, Mancina made some big saves to keep us ahead.”

The game’s opening faceoff was preceded by a tribute paid to Scott Holland, earlier saluted with the GOJHL

dition to assisting on the Manchurek goal.

Although the Flyers have nearly completed their 2012-13 roster, Piroski plans to modify the lines as the season progresses. He explained that most experimentation with the lines could be primarily completed by Christmas.

“I always like to shuffle the lines a bit,” Piroski said. “If you don’t try, you’ll never know what your team’s best matchups will be.”

Although most Ontario Hockey League teams have not yet made their final cuts, Piroski said he doesn’t anticipate the need for major alterations to his team’s roster once OHL line-ups have been finalized.

“They could make a few more releases, but it’s not like we’re going to be sitting by the phone waiting,” he explained.

Around the league

Elsewhere in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Western Conference, the LaSalle Vipers fell 85 to the St. Thomas Stars while the Strathroy Rockets nipped the Western defending champion London Nationals 6-5 on Wednesday, Aug. 5. On Saturday, Sept. 8, the Vipers visited the Lambton Shores Predators and left with a 4-3 loss. The next day, London won 5-1 in St. Marys while the Chatham Maroons defeated Strathroy 3-1.

The next game for the Flyers will be played at Heinz Arena Thursday, Sept. 13 against the St. Thomas Stars with a 7:10 p.m. start.

Seguin Named Captain

Last week the Leamington Flyers announced that Alex Seguin has been named team captain for the upcoming season.

“He has great leadership qualities,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski. “He leads by example and he’s well liked by his teammates.”

Seguin is in his third year with the team and is coming off an outstanding season last year where he tallied 73 points in 43 regular season games including a 24 game point streak that tied him with former Flyer’s captain Jason Baclig for the second longest pointstreak in Flyers history (Adam Edinger holds the record with 29 games).

“It’s an honour for Tony to pick me,” Seguin said. “I feel very privileged. We have a great bunch of guys and I think it’s going to be a great year.”

This year’s assistant captains will be Brett Babkirk, Kyle Bowman and Troy Cox.

Upcoming Home Games: THURS, SEPT 13 vs ST. THOMAS 7:10PM THURS, SEPT 20 vs ST. MARYS 7:10PM

Upcoming away Games:

Sarnia’s Hunter Tyczynski goes airborne in an attempt to avoid a hip check from the Flyers’ Dakota Olvin during the second period of the 2012-13 season opener at Heinz Arena Thursday, Sept. 6. Leamington won 4-3. (Sun photo)

In an unassisted effort, Tony Spidalieri sends a backhand shot past Sarnia goalie Sean Parker for the Leamington Flyers first goal of the 2012-13 season. The Flyers went on to win the Thursday, Sept. 6 home and season opener 4-3. (Sun photo)

Kyle Bowman crosses the Legionnaires blueline under the watch of Sarnia defenseman Chad Beauchamp during the first period of the Thursday, Sept. 6 home opener for the Leamington Flyers. Leamington built a 4-0 lead before the game’s half-way point and held on for a 4-3 victory. (Sun photo)

Alex Seguin, Team Captain

Peewee Lakers fall in extra innings

The Leamington South Essex Fabricating Peewee Lakers lost a tough 16-15 extra inning decision to the Belle River Braves in the title game of the OBA “C” championship Sunday afternoon, September 2.

The game was exciting and action-packed as Leamington battled back from an early 11-2 deficit to tie the game at 14-14 after seven innings. But the ending proved both disappointing and controversial when with bases loaded and two outs the umpire announced that the Braves batter had been hit by a pitch and awarded him first base, forcing in the winning run. This despite the fact the umpire had initially called the pitch a strike.

Lucas Lamotte and Emilio Gomez swung big bats for the Lakers, pounding out four hits each. Brett Enns, Jessica Jeffery and Ryan Wall had three hits, while Aiden Massad, Kameron Wall, Kyle Wall and Anthony Fehr had two hits each.

Trailing 14-12 in the top of the seventh, the locals scored the tying runs in dramatic fashion when Gomez tripled and scored when Jared Klein singled. Klein was replaced by pinch runner Devin Mills, who stole second and then scored on a Belle River overthrow

The fleet-footed Gomez combines speed and power to make every at-bat an adventure. “He is one of the fastest I have ever coached,” said Chris Lamotte. “He led us in stolen bases this year. He was perfect, never getting thrown out all season when swiping a base.” Enns, Derrick Antunes, Jeffery and Lamotte handled the pitching duties. Lamotte recorded the loss.

Belle River, who also hosted the 10-team tournament, defeated Kingsville to advance to the finals of the provincial championship.

The Leamington coaching staff has contacted Baseball Ontario looking for an explanation of the ruling that ended the game. Rule 6.08 (b) states a player struck by a pitch in the strike zone shall not be considered a hit batsman and not awarded a base. Since the pitch was cleanly caught by the catcher and originally called a strike, Lakers brass feels the umpire erred in awarding him the base and had misinterpreted the rule.

As of Southpoint Sun press time, coaching staff were awaiting a response.

Scott Holland has the honour of dropping the first puck of the season

Leamington Flyers statistician Scott Holland conducts a season-starting puck drop between Leamington Flyers captain Alex Seguin (right) and Sarnia Legionnaires captain Jeff Paulley. The Flyers are perfect so far this season with a 2-0 start, defeating Sarnia at Thursday’s home opener and slipping past St. Marys 5-4 on Friday night. (SUN Photo)

Rookie

ABOVE: Stephen Croley of the Wheatley Sharks bumps into a Belle River Canadiens forward during a Friday, Aug. 31 exhibition game at Lakeshore Arena. Belle River hung on to win 3-2. (SUN Photos)

AT LEFT: Logan Percy begins carrying the puck out of the Wheatley Sharks’ zone during first period action of a Great Lakes Junior ‘C’ exhibition game against the hosting Belle River Canadiens, Friday, Aug. 31. Belle River won 3-2.

Sharks team cutting their teeth in exhibition

By Bryan Jessop

The Wheatley Sharks may have been on the wrong side of a 3-2 decision from an Aug. 31 exhibition game against the Belle River Canadiens, but they certainly didn’t come across as pushovers.

Sharks head coach Ken Galerno explained that the game served its purpose of allowing his bench staff to evaluate both returning players and rookie hopefuls, as well as proving what the team will likely have to focus on during the rapidly-approaching season.

“It proved what our vulnerabilities will be this year,” Galerno said. “We’ll have to be a strong defensive team.”

The Sharks only had two chances to test their penalty killing unit in their one and only pre-season match against the hosting Canadiens, and did a respectable job of it, keeping Belle River off the scoresheet while on the man advantage. Wheatley’s power play was slow out of the gate, but improved as the game progressed.

The Canadiens struck first on a Mike Ditty wrist shot that beat Sharks goalie Rob Vrabel within the final five minutes of the opening period. About a minute-and-a-half into the second frame, Kevin Sorascu took passes from Mitchell Prudence and Nikko Sablone blasting a slap shot past Brandon Cowell from just inside the blue line. The deadlock stood for more than 15-anda-half minutes, after which point Belle River’s Jordan

REC ROUND-UP REC ROUND-UP

Youth Sports – check out the Activity Guide to read more about: Volleyball Academy, Youth Indoor Soccer, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, and Jr. Racquetball. Register in advance - don’t be disappointed!

P.A. Day Camp: Fri. Sept. 21. Kids love spending their day being active at Complex Camp.

NEW Indoor Cycling Studio is now open and offers 15 different spin classes each week! An entire room dedicated to spinning with 4 Schwinn certified spin instructors to lead you through the paces. Check out the adult fitness class schedule. Come try a class and stay for the session!

New Moms: Stroller Fit and/or Mom & Tot Aquafitness in the pool. The new mom gets the benefit of exercise and your baby will sleep good at night! Complex instructors will help get you back into pre-baby shape!

Splash Zone Swimming Theme Day: Sun. Sept 23 from 1-3 p.m.

Rock ’n Swim: Fri. Sept. 14 from 7-9 p.m. with all your favourite music sponsored by Dr. K. Archer Family Dental Care.

Leamington’s Largest Fitness Class FREE of CHARGE! We’re doing it again. Join us as we bring back this crowd favourite on Wed. Sept. 26 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Let’s fill the Complex Gymnasium! Newcomers welcome, plus all regular Complex members are invited. The hour-long session will be BIG on variety — some cardio, some conditioning exercises, and we’ll finish with a Bold Zumba Party workout!

Much Music Video Dance Concert: Sat. Sept. 29 from 7-10 p.m. in the Complex gym. Tickets $10, cash only, available at the Complex front reception desk. Dance contests, prizes, swag, meet and greet athletes and games mascot, with proceeds to the International Children’s Games Windsor/Essex 2013.

The Girls’ Night Out program for girls grade 6-8 takes place on Monday nights from 6-8 p.m. Register in advance. Meet new friends, learn new skills, develop new interests! Participants choose the theme nights and activities like: Spa Night, Games Night, Hawaiian Night, swimming and other sports, scrap booking, Movie Night, cooking, and self-esteem building – just to name a few of the choices. Register in advance .

Family Life ’n Style Expo: Fri. Oct. 19 and Sat. Oct. 20. Over 45 vendors displaying everything for your families’ life ’n style! Interested vendors contact Brenda Fischer to reserve your booth space. Demonstrations, fashion show, samples, presentations and prizes galore!

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Sherk St., Leamington 519-322-2337 email: bfischer@leamington.ca www.leamington.ca

Luciw became the first player to solve Brett Glasier. Glasier replaced Vrabel in net at about the half-way point of the second period.

Tyler Turner officially put the game away with just over a minute remaining in the third period, although the Sharks refused to throw in the towel until the final buzzer announced the game’s completion. Jesse Magerisan pulled his team back to within a goal after a display of fancy stick work that allowed him to beat Belle River goalie Brett Tremblay. Wheatley pushed hard for the following 33 seconds to tie the game, but were unable to solve Tremblay for a second time.

Galerno made a few cuts after the game and a couple more after the first session of main camp held at Wheatley Area Arena on Wednesday, Sept. 5. The camp wrapped up with skates on Sept. 7 and 9 and although the season officially began Sept. 10 with a home game against the Dresden Kings, Galerno noted that the roster will not likely be completed until the end of the month.

“We’re looking at the first seven or eight games as our preseason,” he said. “The exhibition schedule was too short and there’s a big difference between practice players and game players.”

During the offseason, the Sharks picked up forward Dylan Impens and defenseman Mike Reid from the Belle River Canadiens. Last season, Impens tallied eight goals and nine assists in 25 games with the Canadiens, while Reid collected four assists in 22 games.

About 15 players had signed cards by the time the Sharks completed their only exhibition game, although Galerno explained that some of those players could be bumped from their positions depending how future opportunities unfold.

“We’ve got a lot of work to do,” said Galerno. “We’ll be a younger team than usual, but I’ve got as good a coaching staff with me as anyone else to

these players.”

Junior Cougars to start against Saints

With any good high school senior football program comes a strong junior system, and Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School is no exception.

The junior Cougars football team began preparing for the 2012 season a week prior to Labour Day weekend in an effort to improve on its already impressive five wins, two losses records of both 2010 and 2011. About 36 players and coaches Mark Renaud, Andrew George and Leo Obeid will represent the Cougars, one of four teams assigned to the Windsor Essex County Secondary School Athletic Association’s Eastern Division.

Prior to the introductory Aug. 27 practice, several junior players gathered sans coaching staff to conduct conditioning exercises and go through a series of plays with which they were already familiar. Renaud again takes on the duties as head coach while Obeid will oversee the team’s offensive and defensive lines and George assumes the responsibilities of defensive coordinator.

“We’re looking pretty good so far,” Renaud said following a Friday, Sept. 7 practice. “We’ve got quite a few returning players who were in Grade 9 last year — I expect us to do well.”

Each team plays a regular season made up of a round robin schedule against the other seven teams of their respective divisions. The Cougars will start the season at home Wednesday, Sept. 19 at 4 p.m. against the St. Anne Saints. The top four teams of each division will advance to the Janiesse playoffs, with first place in the west taking on fourth place in the east and vice versa. Second and third place teams will do the same crossover for the other Janiesse quarter finals. Fifth through eighth place teams will undergo the same format in the Miller playoffs.

The Cougars finished third in 2010 and 2011, setting up quarter final matches against the West’s second place team each time. Last year, the Cougars were eliminated by Catholic Central in the first round.

“Every player on our team agrees that they would rather have tougher games in the top playoff group than having an easier time trying to win the championship in the other group,” Renaud explained. “Our kids want to play the best.”

Almost without exception, Herman and Belle River have proven themselves the teams to beat in WECSSAA junior football, where no scheduling considerations are made for each school’s ‘A through AAAA’ ranking. Holy Names and Villanova have also developed reputations as high school football powers.

Key junior Cougars this season will include Josh Van Roie as middle linebacker, Chris Tanoose as running back and safety, Noah Nassif as quarterback and a group of other starters that includes C.J. Church, Kyle Jennings, Zack Benson and Joe Slikboer. Many junior Cougars also play in the Essex Ravens minor football system, exposing them to as many as seven months per year playing on the gridiron.

“This group has been really good and responsible,” said Renaud. “If they come out here every day (the team practices five times per week) and do what they’re told, they make the team. They’ve got it into their heads that they can’t be part time. The parents are very supportive with transportation, which helps a lot.”

The junior Cougars will undergo the following regular season schedule in the eight-team East Division:

Wednesday, Sept. 19 — home against St. Anne, 4 p.m.; Wednesday, Sept. 26 — away against L’Essor, 4 p.m.; Wednesday, Oct. 3 — home against Essex, 4 p.m.;

Wednesday, Oct. 10 — home against Brennan, 4 p.m.;

Wednesday, Oct. 17 — away against Belle River, 4 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 24 — away against Tecumseh Vista Academy, 4 p.m.;

Wednesday, Oct. 31 — home against Herman, 4 p.m.

ing a passing

a

BELOW: Cardinal Carter junior football team players took part in a speed and endurance drill to complete a practice Thursday, Sept. 6. The team will start the regular season at home with a 4 p.m. start Wednesday, Sept. 19 against St. Anne. (SUN

Mennonite Savings and Credit Union (MSCU) is currently seeking a family who would like to walk the journey of faith and finances with us, up close and personal. By inviting us into your lives in 2013, we can share in your interactions with each other and with MSCU. It will be a learning experience that will enrich our members’ view of faith, finances, and their credit union.

Conversations and interactions will be shared through a variety of media. As with everything we do, MSCU’s approach will be respectful and reflect our core values: integrity, compassion, and responsible stewardship.

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LEFT: Junior Cougars receiver Ray Van Braeckel makes a leaping catch dur-

exercise at

Thursday, Sept. 6 practice at Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School.

Photos)

Senior Lions, Cougars ready to hit gridiron

By Bryan Jessop

Local sports fans seeking proof that autumn has arrived need look no further than the Windsor Essex County Secondary School Athletic Association senior football season, which begins tomorrow.

The 2012 campaign for the Leamington District Secondary School Lions and Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School Cougars kicks off Sept. 13, although the cross-town rivals won’t meet until the end of the regular season. Tomorrow, the Lions will host Riverside while the Cougars get things started on their home turf against General Amherst.

The two Leamington teams will again play the regular season in round robin format within their respective divisions — the Arnott Division for LDSS and the Wilson Division for Cardinal Carter. The only cross-divisional contest for the two local teams will be played against each other Friday, Oct. 26 at Cardinal Carter — the final regular season game for both squads. WECSSAA schedules a cross-divisional game for each team every season as a ‘bowl’ game, known as the ‘Tomato Bowl’ between the Lions and Cougars.

The regular season schedules for the two teams are as follows:

Tyler Getty

perform an offensive line

during an LDSS senior

ball practice Wednesday, Sept. 5. Just over half of the team’s 32 players began practice two weeks prior to the start of the 2012 WECSSAA season.

Carter

Thursday, Sept. 13 at 3 p.m. — home versus General Amherst; Friday, Sept. 21 at 3 p.m. — home versus Massey; Friday, Sept. 28 at 7 p.m. — away versus Holy Names at Windsor Stadium; Friday, Oct. 5 at 5 p.m. — away versus Villanova at Tecumseh Vista Academy; Thursday, Oct. 18 at 6 p.m. — home versus Essex at University of Windsor; Friday, Oct. 26 at 3 p.m. — home versus Leamington.

Leamington

Thursday, Sept. 13 at 3 p.m. — home versus Riverside; Friday, Sept. 21 at 3 p.m. — home versus St. Joseph’s; Thursday, Sept. 27 at 3 p.m. — home versus Assumption; Friday, Oct. 5 at 3 p.m. — away versus Forster at Tecumseh Vista Academy; Friday, Oct. 19 at 3 p.m. — away versus L’Essor; Friday, Oct. 26 at 3 p.m. — away versus Cardinal Carter.

Last season, the Cougars finished the regular season with an even 3-3 record, scoring 143 points while allowing 97. The record was good enough for fifth in the 12-team Wilson Division. The Lions played in the same division, finishing with a record of two wins and four losses, during which time they accumulated 31 points while allowing 125. They finished ninth and were eliminated by L’Essor in the first round of playoffs in a hard-fought 7-4 decision. The Cougars advanced to the WECSSAA championship game, where their line-

The Lions’ 2012 season will not be without challenges, as only about a dozen of their 32 players are returning from last year. Key players include Todd Jones, Tyler Getty, Justin Hicks, Colin Seng, Andrew Levesque and quarterback Matt Chamberlin, who will also serve as starting linebacker. Several Lions will be taking on ironman duties this season.

“We’re very young,” said Lions head coach Greg Wood. “We might not be throwing the ball a lot, but we’ve got a pretty good back field. We’re hoping to improve our offense this

(Continued on page 25) up of only 19 players was defeated 22-12 by Kennedy.

Cardinal

Left: Cardinal Carter senior football starting quarterback Andrew Valle (second from left) takes the snap during a positional exercise Friday, Sept. 7. (SUN Photos)

Below:

(left) and Thomas Livingstone

drill

foot-

Lions, Cougars

(Continued from page 24)

year — that should really help.”

Wood is being joined on the sidelines by fellow coaches Jimmy Lynn, Ethan Britton, Jason Primeau, Ross Spettigue and Wayne Churchill. Churchill, a retired chemistry teacher, won an OUA title along with Wood and had signed with the CFL’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers as a defensive tackle. Wood, in the meantime, played for the Ottawa Roughriders and Toronto Argonauts.

Spettigue, instrumental in starting the Essex Ravens football program, previously coached high school football in Essex and Belle River, where he coached Tie Domi. Domi later went on to become the notorious physical force for the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs.

Both Britton and Primeau played for

the Cardinal Carter Cougars and Essex Ravens and will direct the Lions’ offensive line and serve as offensive coordinator, respectively. Spettigue will oversee quarterback, receivers and special teams duties while Lynn and Churchill coach the defensive line.

Meanwhile, on Ellison Avenue, the senior Cougars have been preparing for the upcoming season under the leadership of coaches Chris Church and Wojciech Ficon. The team of about 30 players began full-fledged practices a week prior to the school year’s introduction and prior to that, players gathered via the leadership of team captains.

“We’re not just a team now, we’re more like a family,” said senior Cougars starting quarterback Andrew Valle. “We have a lot of talent on both sides of the ball. Our receiving core is solid — we’ll be putting more air under the ball this year than we have in past years.”

Key players for this year’s senior Cougars will be receiver Matteo DelBrocco, running back Matthew Gayer (the team’s only fifth-year player), receiver Joseph Daoud and Valle. Although receiver Mike Mastronardi

new to football, his team is eager to have him catching passes once the season begins.

“He’s just a natural-born athlete,” Valle said.

Valle spent last season as the backup quarterback for the junior Cougars, but has spent a great deal of the off-season training and practicing for 2012. Most of this year’s senior Cougar football players are either moving up from last year’s junior division, have played for the Essex Ravens or both.

A pass is nearly intercepted during a Cardinal Carter senior football team practice.

(SUN Photos)

Todd Jones carries the ball towards the ‘opposition’s’ end zone while being pursued by Greg Konrad during a senior football practice at LDSS Wednesday, Sept. 5. Jones will take on duties as both defensive back and fullback this year while Konrad will actually play centre on the offensive line. Several Lions will take on ironman duties this season. is

Cardinal Carter senior football head coach Chris Church explains a drill to his players during a practice Friday, Sept. 7.

Overcast day doesn’t cloud T.T. golf

By Bob McLean

On an overcast Tuesday, September 4, 60 senior golfers challenged the Talbot Trail golf course. Some great scores were posted by many golfers who enjoyed playing on this almost windless day. Four golfers who earned special mention for their terrific low rounds of 40 were Jim Pearson, Neil Adamson, Tom Hyatt and Joe Vertel.

In the 80-86y division, Bill Galloway and Dave la Bonte played like young, talented rookies as they came in with masterful 42s. Murray Knox played very well scoring an impressive 47. Gerry Becigneul and Hal Wigle earned very solid 48s. Satisfying 52s were scored by Bob MacWilliam and Harvey Wiltshire. Other commendable scores of 58 or less were merited by Ray Allen, Jim Ascott, Bill Westrop and Murray Cascadden.

The super seniors are congratulated as they all achieved results less than 60. Leading the way once again was Dick Mackenzie who produced a superb 49. Linus Bachmeier, as usual, played very commendably scoring a nifty 50. Bill Hutchinson and Al Stockwell also achieved very commendable scores.

The 70-79y division had many outstanding results. Three players who posted excellent results of 40 were Neil Adamson, Tom Hyatt and Joe Vertel. A mere one shot back, with his outstanding 41 score, was Homer Vandervecht. Bob Patchett earned a superb 43. Ken Womack, playing his best round this year, tied Paul R. Brown with impressive 44 results. Andy Orsini played very well achieving a very satisfying 45. Very commendable results of 46 were produced by Bill Adams and Dave Pilmer. Pete Daudlin deserves praise for his commendable 47. Two players with satisfying 48s were Larry Hillman and Carl Robinson. Bill Parr and Clarence Ware shot steady rounds of 49. At nifty 50 were Eugene Abbruzzese and Fred Takaki. Four golfers who merited fine 52s were Iggy Arner, Walter Balsam, Wayne Cowan and Lyle Douglas.

The youngest division was led, once again, by Jim Pearson who fired an outstanding 40. He was followed by Kevin Jordan, Bill Ward and Bob McLean who each achieved solid 42s. Jim Omstead merited a praiseworthy 43. Three golfers who fired very commendable 44s were Dave Clark, Bob Shaw, and Larry Schmidt. At satisfying 45s were Mike Getty, Lloyd Symons and Ray LaPierre. Ron Will and Don Riley played well to earn their 46s. Also

achieving scores that were less than 50 were Richard Humber, Andy Gould and Dave Overholt.

Note: Our final league scramble is Tues. Sept. 25! Plans are being made to return to Blenheim on Thurs. Sept. 27. The last time we played at Blenheim we had ten groups. So if you are interested get your group ready as quickly as possible to assure you get in on this great deal. The price will once again be $25.

Team Watson’s lead unreachable

By amassing an amazing number of 151 points to-date, Team Watson extended their overall lead in the Men’s Thursday Night League at Erie Shores Golf Club to an unreachable 27 points over second place contenders Team Nelson.

With their 124-point tally, Team Nelson remains 11 points ahead of Team Player’s 113 points and will most likely win the runners-up honours.

Standing alone in fourth place with 111 points, Team Hogan still has a very good chance of catching Team Player during the last three weeks of play.

Team Jones is another 20 points back at 91 and likely to finish in fifth place just ahead of Team Sarazen who are stuck in sixth place with 84.

Teams Ballesteros and Nicklaus are tied for seventh with 82 points, while Team Vardon is next at 81 and Team Palmer is in ninth position with 67.

In individual play, Mike Morin lead all shooters with a two-under par 33, while Ryan Harder and Mike Ferreira were each a stroke back at one-under par 34.

Low net honours went to Larry Stull with a 30.5, while Paul Bunnett-Jones was right behind him with a net 31. Andrew Dick was closest to the pin on the third hole, while Ron Tiessen hit it closest to the hole on #5.

All players are reminded to let the Pro Shop know if they are coming out to the Closing Night Awards Dinner on Thursday, October 4. Cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m. with dinner and awards follow at 6:30. For more details, call the Pro Shop at 519-326-4231 ext. 22.

SOUTHPOINT SUN

1 BEDROOM CONDOfor rent - 44 Robson Rd. Leamington, $750 + utilities. No pets! Call 519-326-4491. se12-19

TWO BEDROOM DUPLEX in Leamington. Fridge and stove, laundry room available. $600 per month plus utilities. First and last required. Available now. Call 519-326-8015. se12-tf

Security Building Fridge & Stove Utilities included For viewing please call 519-322-1924

by

Will service all stringed instruments. Over ten

experience, custom

available as well. Next day pickup upon request. Cell: 226-344-1142 Home: 519-825-4707. ma30-tf

Business envelopes, invoices, flyers, business cards, custom print jobs, whatever your printing needs, call Rick at The Wheatley Journal for quick and economical service. 519-825-4541. tf

FOR SALE

CARTOP RACKS ANDtwo bicycle carriers. Fits Volkswagen. Like new, used twice. $650 value, asking $300. 519-326-7881. tf

ST. BERNARD PUPPIESReady now, $500. Call 519825-7299 or 519-999-7299. se12

MUSIC LESSONS

NEW MUSIC STORE in Kingsville! Lessons, instrument sales, repairs. 49 Main St., E. 519-997-7777 www.rebelcowboymusic.com

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GENERAL LABOURER NEEDEDfor local Abattoir. Must be able to do heavy lifting. Please bring Resumé to 643 Hwy.77 se12

- Take Off Pounds Sensibly. Weigh in from 6 pm - 6:45 pm, meeting from 6:45 pm - 7:30 pm every Monday at Wheatley United Church. Call Cheryl at 519825-9194 or Ellen at 519326-0730 or visit website: www.TOPS.org. Everyone welcome. tf

MUSIC LESSONS IN WHEATLEY! All ages, all styles, all instruments and vocals. We sell guitars, keyboards, pianos, accordions, violins, saxophones ... you name it, and we can get it for you at a great price!! 519825-3330, 15 Talbot Rd. West, beside Jack's Coffee. www.rebelcowboymusic.com

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ANTENNA SPECIALIST - HDTV antenna systems, satellite dishes, aiming & accessories, specialty and non-denominational free religious programming. TBN 3ABN 7th Day, etc. on G19 satellite, burglar alarms, telephone, paging, intercom and background music systems. Sales and service. Prewire your new house. 519-326-8973, ricci@mnsi.net. se5-oc31

We are currently recruiting in Leamington, Belle River, Essex and Kingsville

Days/Evenings/Weekends

Must be available 20 hours per week. Must have own transportation. We offer a competitive salary, benefits, paid training/orientation & education opportunities. Apply online @ www.homecarejobs.ca or send resume to 215 Eugenie St. W., Suite 106, Windsor ON N8X 2X7 We thank all applicants, however only those to be interviewed will be contacted.

Thank you to the many people who came to visit for my 90th birthday. Thank you for the well wishes and the support given to the meat canners. Uncle Jack Tiessen

Bike tour will celebrate World Heart Day

September 29 is World Heart Day, and to mark the occasion the Windsor Cardiac Centre has become the lead sponsor of the Canada South Coast Bike Tour.

“Cardiovascular diseases are the world’s largest killers, claiming 17.3 million lives a year,” says Dr. Wadea Tarhuni, MD, President and CEO of the Windsor Cardiac Centre. “Physical inactivity is a key risk factor for heart disease and stroke. This event and partnership continues to build on our Healthy Planet-Healthy Heart initiative.”

The Canada South Coast Bike Tour includes three cycling events across the region – there is a route available for every age and fitness level. The event will include a 15-kilometre family ride and 42-kilometre intermediate ride along the safe Chrysler Canada Greenway trail, with the 15-km event beginning and ending at Schwab Farm Community Entrance on the Arner Towline. The 42-km intermediate ride will begin and end at the Harrow Community Entrance.

The 106-kilometre advanced road ride will begin and end at the Ciociaro Club of Windsor and stretch along beautiful urban and rural roads. Rest stops with water, snacks and washrooms will be available approximately every 20 kilometres along this route. All funds raised will be used to help construct the Essex-Amherstburg Greenway, another heart-healthy trail for the Essex Region.

Tourism Windsor-Essex –Pelee Island and the Windsor Islamic Association are also sponsors of the event.

All routes will lead to the Kingsville Train Station Community Entrance/Mettawas Station Restaurant for lunch, which is included in the registration fee. Costs range $25 to $30 per participant, with a family maximum of $75. There is no charge for children in bike trailers. Commemorative bike jerseys and youth and adult t-shirts are also available to purchase online, but those who wish to have them for the ride need to order before Sept. 14.

Those wishing more information can check out www. erca.org and click on the September events calendar. Online registration can be accessed at www.onlineregistrations.ca/cscbiketour.