Mennonites learn about their history
By Mark Ribble
This area has a large contingent of Mennonite families, and while many know the history of their arrival from Europe, some of the younger members may not know the story behind how or why many of them came to this region of Canada.
nonite heritage today.
Many of the Mennonite families in this area came from the Schonfeld Settlement in southern Russia, which is now part of Ukraine.
decisions they needed to make when considering emigrating to Canada and ultimately to the Leamington area,” said Konrad.
ing on this educational series format and launching several new events in the coming months.
The Essex Kent Mennonite Historical Association (EKMHA) held the first in a series of presentations to help those who may not know the history on Saturday, March 29 at the Mennonite Heritage Centre on Pickwick Drive in Leamington.
The Mennonite History and Stories Evening included a tour of the Mennonite Museum and a gathering to hear stories about some of the area’s families.
Hosted by EKMHA Chair Jim Konrad, who took the audience through the history of the Mennonites, the evening featured some historical photos and tales that connected the original Mennonite colonies of the 1500s to the modern families who share their Men-
The trials and tribulations of the Mennonites and their persecution over the years eventually led them to emigrate — most to North America. Many of those families came to Canada and settled in the farming communities of Ontario and the prairie provinces.
Three local speakers were able to share their family history and stories passed down from their ancestors. Herb Enns, Ken Enns and Ernie Neufeld each did a fantastic job of relaying stories of their families’ past to the 55-orso people in attendance for the evening.
In their own way, each painted a picture of Mennonite life around the turn of the last century and their subsequent arrival in Leamington.
“This was a deep dive for me personally into our forefathers’ history and some of the difficult
“It helped me recognize how blessed we truly are and hearing from people that lived through it was a real eye opener for me.”
EKMHA will be build-
“We are excited to host Aileen Friesen for an upcoming Historical Presentation evening in June,” added Konrad. Friesen is the Associate Professor, Author and Executive Di-
rector of the Plett Foundation at the University of Winnipeg. This is the next step in EKMHA’s efforts to provide meaningful education-based events that assure the preservation and sharing of local Mennonite History and supporting stories.
Herb Enns, right, holds a piece of the Berlin Wall as he shares stories with a couple of local youngsters, Kara Dick and Joshua Dick. Photo courtesy of EKMHA
Jim Konrad presents the history of the Mennonites. SUN photo
The evening’s keynote speakers, from left, Ernie Neufeld, Herb Enns, Ken Enns. SUN photo
Former Olympian pays a visit to schools in Leamington
By Paul Forman
Having competed on the international stage in both the Olympics and the Pan-Am Games, Charmaine Reid now spends her time encouraging kids to be physically active and to believe in themselves as they go after their dreams.
Reid travels the province with her motivational program called “S’COOL MISSION” and impressed kids with her badminton skills at both Margaret D. Bennie Public School and Queen Elizabeth Public School during 40-minute sessions on March 25.
Reid teamed up with former St. Clair College badminton coach Clovis McLaughlin for the visits that hit upon technical skills, but more importantly shared her stories of perseverance as she made her way up the ranks and the joys of competing around the world that resulted from her tenacity.
Students from the two schools not only enjoyed the motivational address, but also received a class set of racquets, birdies and goggles provided by funds from Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart program.
Aamir
Students at Margaret D. Bennie Public School were thrilled with the opportunity to wear Charmaine Reid’s international medals and Olympic jacket at the conclusion of the first “S’COOL MISSION” session. Pictured from the left, former St. Clair College badminton coach Clovis McLaughlin, Grace Diemer, Dale Wallace, Layla Hammond, Maleek Cameron, Bryan Villanueva-Turcois, Blake D’Amico, Cadence Bonnett and former Olympian Charmaine Reid.
Former Olympian Charmaine Reid, along with former St. Clair College badminton coach Clovis McLaughlin, provided some helpful advice before giving some lucky students a chance to take on Reid.
Charmaine Reid provided instructional tips to many students at Margaret D. Bennie Public School, including Charlotte Carriere pictured here. SUN photos by Paul Forman
Leamington road reconstruction and sewer separation project
Contractors working on behalf of the Municipality of Leamington will be undertaking a sewer separation and road reconstruction project on multiple streets as part of ongoing infrastructure improvements.
Construction is scheduled to begin in April 2025 and is expected to be completed by November 2025, weather permitting.
Affected Roads:
• Queens Avenue (Selkirk Avenue to John Street)
• John Street (Queens Avenue to Elliott Street)
• Albert Street (Talbot Street West to Cul-de-sac)
• Baird Avenue (John Street to Selkirk Avenue)
• Elliott Street (Talbot Street West to Smith Avenue)
•Otton Lane
The project includes: installation of new sanitary and storm sewers; updat-
ed street lighting; and full road construction with traffic calming and new sidewalks.
Detour routes will be in place, and access through the construction zone will be maintained for local traffic where possible. However, motorists should expect periodic road closures and delays.
For more information, visit: leamington.ca/Projects
Ask for Angela campaign underway
Chatham-Kent Victim Services is partnering with Loblaws to launch the ‘Ask for Angela’ campaign in the Chatham-Kent region. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and well-being of individuals who feel unsafe – particularly those experiencing intimate partner violence, or who feel vulnerable or threatened in public spaces.
The Ask for Angela campaign, originally established in the United Kingdom in 2016, provides a discreet way for individuals to seek help by using the code-phrase “Is Angela here?” When someone asks for Angela
at participating venues, trained staff will assist them by connecting them with Chatham-Kent Victim Services, enabling help quickly.
Participating Loblaws stores in the Chatham-Kent region include Real Cana-
dian Superstore, Shoppers Drug Mart and No Frills.
Staff at participating venues will receive comprehensive training to ensure they can effectively respond to individuals in need.
MAKING MAPLE SYRUP
The Jack Miner Maple Syrup Open House was held on Friday, March 28 where visitors were able to learn about the maple syrup production from tapping to sap to grading systems and beyond. The event was dampened a bit by rain in the afternoon, but Jack Miner Executive Director Matt Olewski said that the morning had been busy with lots of inquisitive visitors. Here, Bill Boldt of Leamington stands alongside his maple syrup evaporator as he waits for all of the sap in the tote to be filtered through and boiled down to the proper water content.
SUN photo
Mike Rita leaves them laughing
By Paul Forman
Winding his way across North America, Mike Rita made a stop on March 29 at The Bank Theatre in Leamington to the delight of a sold-out, raucous crowd.
The Wasaga Beach-based comedian/writer, having made many appearances at the Just For Laugh Comedy Festival in Montreal, made extensive use of his experiences growing up in a working-class Portuguese family and had hilarious back and forth banter with an audience comprised of many from an Azorean descent.
The comedy show included opener Rob Serra from Oshawa and was sponsored by the Municipality of Leamington, along with Chances Gaming Lounge.
For those interested in another evening of laughs, The Bank Theatre hosts an Improv Battle on April 12 at 7 p.m.
Calling all poets and poetry fans
The Bank Theatre is set to present their first Poetry Night on Saturday, April 5.
The night will feature local poets reciting their favourite original poems as well as other speakers reciting their favourite poems written by others.
“I’m really looking forward to this night,” says host Sumaya Black. “Bring your friends and your poems for an unforgettable night of poetry.”
Black says that she welcomes all kinds of poetry, even song lyrics and thinks that it will be an enjoyable evening for all.
Doors open at 6:30 pm and the poetry starts at 7 pm. There will be a passthe-hat admission fee and you’ll need to sign up online or via email to manager@banktheatre. com.
You can also check out banktheatre.com for more information.
Tasha Slater
®
Realtor
A sold-out crowd turned out for Wheatley Legion’s first Trivia Night at Joe’s Bar on Thursday, March 27 with Howard’s Huddle taking home top prize with 45 correct answers out of 62. The next Trivia Night is schedule for Thursday, April 10 at 7 p.m. sharp at Joe’s Bar.
There were 18 players out for Friday Night Fun Darts on March 28.
Recording five wins were Virginia Bartelt, Neil Handspiker and Larry Evoy. Four wins: Jean Teylouni, Karl Bartelt and Darryl Newman; Velma Hope, Dan Backmeier and Jim McClellan. Three wins: Lynn Scott, Ben Baltzer and Rob Baker; Julie Reid, John Balkwill and Dave Vermeiren. Two wins: Bonnie Evoy, Dennis Kiss and Gord Crook. Lady doublers were Virginia and Velma (2).
Anyone who would like to come out and play Fun Darts is welcome. Don’t have darts? Don’t worry, some will be found for you. Next Fun Darts Night is Friday, April 4 at Kingsville Legion. Sign-up is at 7 p.m. and play begins at 7:15.
The March 29 Meat Draw winners were Julie Reid (3), Donna Corlett, Dick Whittle, Bill Hyatt, Bill Sutherland, Candis Hyatt, Brenda Hyatt, Gloria Sheldon and Karen St. John. The L.A. 50/50 draw was won by George Church.
The Legion’s Meat Draws continue every Saturday at Joe’s Bar, next door to Lucky Wok. Ticket go on sale at 3 p.m. and the draws begin at 3:30. Everyone welcome.
Comedian Mike Rita took to The Bank Theatre stage on Saturday, March 29 and left the sold-out crowd laughing all the way home. Paul Forman photo
TOURISM WORKSHOP
The Leamington Chamber of Commerce presented their 2025 Tourism Workshop on Tuesday, April 1 at The Bank Theatre, in partnership with Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI), Municipality of Leamington, Town of Kingsville, Parks Canada and Dream BnB Hospitality. The morning session featured a breakfast and keynote speakers Gordon Orr (TWEPI), Sue Rice (Kingsville Economic Development), Jilda Rose (Dream BnB) and Monique Oltrop (Parks Canada). Each speaking session focused on tourism and how attendees can use the information to draw more tourists to their area and keep them coming back. In the photo above, Sue Rice of the Town of Kingsville, goes through her presentation. SUN photo
St. Clair College
Seeks Community Representatives for the Board of Governors
St. Clair College’s Vision is “Excellence in All We Do”. This is demonstrated through our diploma and new degree programs, as well as our student services, dedicated faculty and staff, and our new state-of-the-art facilities in Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent.
We enable our students to “Rise Above the Ordinary”.
St. Clair College is seeking applications for the Board of Governors for a three-year term beginning on September 1, 2025 The College Board is comprised of 17 members, including 12 appointed from the community, the College President and an additional four members who are elected from the College’s student, faculty, support and administrative groups.
Board responsibilities include policy setting and contributing to the College’s Strategic Directions. Board members are required to attend monthly Board meetings (normally scheduled on the fourth Tuesday of the month) between September and June, with meetings beginning at 5:30 p.m. Additional meetings are scheduled on an as needed basis. Board members are also asked to participate in College and community events.
St. Clair College serves the Windsor and Essex County areas as well as the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Community representatives are drawn from this region. St. Clair College welcomes applications from representatives of the diverse multicultural communities that surround and enrich the College. St. Clair College serves over 15,000 full-time students and part-time learners.
Potential candidates are welcomed from a broad and diverse spectrum of industries and community segments. Experience on community boards and/or knowledge of governance processes will be considered as important assets. Interested individuals are asked to send a resume, emphasizing their strengths in these asset areas, by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 11, 2025
St. Clair College values Diversity, Inclusivity, Collaboration, Integrity and Respect and is committed to ensure the dignity and uniqueness of each individual and to providing an inclusive and supportive environment for all members of the College community
Ms. Kristen Adams, Secretary, Board of Governors 2000 Talbot Road West (Box 30) Windsor, Ontario N9A 6S4
Fax: (519) 966-3763
email: kadams@stclaircollege.ca For additional information call (519) 972-2704
opinion ~ expression ~ and other musings
Just some random ramblings this week
Do you remember the commercial that said “It’s not nice to fool Mother Nature”?
I guess turnabout is fair play because it’s not nice for Mother Nature to fool us either.
The annual tease of warm, almost summer-like days has come and gone for now and we’re in a period of chilliness that just seems to drag on and on.
They had major ice storms just a little north and east of us this past weekend. My spring jacket has been in and out of the closet several times already and my winter coat is always on standby.
This week’s rain will certainly — and literally — put a damper on any outdoor activity and it doesn’t
appear those 60-70 degree temperatures are going to grace us with their presence anywhere in the extended forecast.
I’m not sure what has happened in the world of soup in recent years, but enough with the puréed soups already.
I’ll take a nice creamy potato and bacon soup almost any day of the week but lately when I order what I believe is going to be a creamy soup, it’s just a bowl of warmed up puree. Hey, maybe it’s me, I don’t know. Maybe I just never noticed that there was a distinct difference between potato soup and ‘cream of potato’ soup. Either way, I’m over the puree.
I suppose in the coming years, if I make my way into a long-term care facility, staff will be serving up pureed soup, I’ll be grateful for it. These choppers won’t last forever.
But in a restaurant — nope. I’m actually boycotting restaurant soup until the soups of yesteryear return.
I grew up on canned soup, usually Campbells but sometimes Heinz. While I was never a great fan of canned chicken noodle, I’ll take a good cream of tomato or cream of mushroom out of a can any day.
Even the ready-to-serve clam chowder is a friend of mine. All those chunks of potato and clam allow my aging teeth a good
He drove his ’46 Ford to see Elvis
Bob Lindsay’s first car was a 1946 Ford coupe:
“I was working at the John Inglis washing machine plant in Toronto when I saw it for sale at a car lot on Danforth Avenue. It had a 1952 Ford V-8 engine and cost $400 in 1956. I paid for it through a finance company at $28 a month.
“I had no way of telling what kind of mileage I was getting per gallon because the speedometer didn’t work. Gas at that time was only 2527 cents a gallon. I used about $6 a week worth of fuel while driving to work. With no credit card, you only drove as much as the money in your pocket allowed.
“I owned my ’46 Ford coupe for three years
and the most memorable time was when I drove with my friends to the Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto to see Elvis Presley live on April 2, 1957.”
THE OLD CAR DETECTIVE
Bill Sherk
I also was there to see Elvis, and Bob and I may
have been sitting in the same row. The screaming was non-stop!
workout. Mmmm-Mmmm good.
Soon the crack of baseball bats will fill the air down at the Kinsmen ball diamonds and it always brings back some fond memories for me.
Watching the OBA championships last year was a trip down memory lane for me.
As a player, I was lucky enough to win two Ontario championships and as a coach I was lucky enough to win two more.
Watching the subtle differences in the game compared to 20 years ago when I coached and then 50 years ago when I played, is interesting to observe.
But baseball remains fairly unchanged — unlike hockey, which has changed a whole lot.
I’m looking forward to the upcoming Western Ontario Drama League Festival being hosted by The Bank Theatre in May. They were chosen to host the 2020 Festival, but it got shelved when the pandemic hit. Now the first in-person festival after COVID is being held right here.
RIB’S RAMBLINGS
It’ll be exciting to see all of the things a theatre festival brings to Leamington.
Mark Ribble
The improvements at The Bank Theatre over the years are second-to-none and the greater theatre community across Ontario is about to witness that.
Speaking of gems, I see the new playground structure at the Leamington Marina is coming along. By the time this weather finally stays warm it’ll be well on its way to being the place to be for kids in the area. It’ll join the new improved playground at Mersea Park as the top destination for families.
A new splashpad at Mersea will be the highlight of the summer, leaving local kids and visitors the options of Seacliff Park, Mersea Park, Cottam Ridgeview Park, Lakeside Park and Wheatley Arena if they want to soak up some H2O.
The beavers have been busy at the park’s Marsh Boardwalk and if you’ve never seen one up close, it’s a sight to behold. I grew up inside the park and often asked my dad why we never saw beavers around here. He always said we were simply too far south, but did say that beavers, bears and wolves used to be common in these parts. Now they seem to be in every waterway, joining other animals we never saw around here years ago.
Possums, turkeys, chipmunks, groundhogs are just a few of the “new to us” creatures we see regularly.
Add in a few sandhill cranes and white pelicans and it shows you just how small the world really is. Now I’m just waiting to see a bear or cougar and life will be complete.
Good to see the tower at the tip of Point Pelee open and thriving after a few years of uncertainty. Being the acrophobe that I am, I made one trip up there a few weeks ago for work, snapped a couple pictures and made my way down with no intention of going back up.
Tommy used to work on
Back in the day, when “The Boss”, Bruce Springsteen, was kicking up noise throughout the U.S. and Canada, little did he know there was a very talented teenager growing up in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. This teenager, who looked up at his idol in the 1980s as his inspiration to become a rock star, was born John Francis Bongiovi Jr. on March 2, 1962.
Raised by his parents, Carol and John Bongiovi, Jon Bon Jovi knew in his early teens that he wanted to be a rock star. By the time he was 16, he was hanging out and playing at local clubs. He met keyboardist David Bryan in high school and the two of them formed a 10-piece rhythm and blues band called the Atlantic City Expressway.
In 1980, Jon recorded his very first single, “Runaway”, at his cousin’s studio, with back-up by its studio musicians that included a guitarist. A local radio station included the song on a compilation tape and it began to get frequent airplay. This success got Tico Torres and guitarist Richie Sambora signed to PolyGram. It was here that record executive Derek Shulman “anglicized” John
Bongiovi’s name to Bon Jovi.
Bon Jovi’s self-titled debut came out on January 21, 1984. It was quite the production, filled with their now signature power ballads that were now underscored by soaring guitar riffs and well-crafted melodies. It helped lead the album to gold status.
the docks
FLASHBACK RADIO
with Chuck Reynolds
more than 14 million copies, putting it in the same league as Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”.
In April 1985, Bon Jovi released the follow-up album, 7800º Fahrenheit, which was popular with fans but not so much with critics who were turned off by the hard-band’s manicured image and formulaic style.
Opening for the Scorpions, Kiss and Judas Priest on tour truly helped Bon Jovi build up a considerable fan base that really appreciated the group’s rugged, soulful collection of songs about how tough it was to be a teenager.
Bon Jovi responded to weak critical praise with the arrival of its third album, “Slippery When Wet”, which went gold and platinum simultaneously within six weeks of its release. Powered by songs like “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “Wanted Dead or Alive”, the album sold
After the band went into temporary retirement in 1989, Bon Jovi married his high school sweetheart Dorothea Hurley, who was a karate instructor. They have four children, Stephanie, Jesse, Jacob and Romeo Jon.
Jon stretched his own talents by having an acting career with starring roles in the films “Moonlight and Valentino” and “The Leading Man”. He also appeared in several independent films that included “Pay It Forward” and “U-571”. On TV, he was a regular guest on “Ally McBeal” until the series finale in 2002.
Bon Jovi also made headlines in 2004 when he became a co-founder and a majority owner of the Arena Football League’s Philadelphia Soul. He later parted ways with the team. He and his band donated $1 million to Oprah Winfrey’s Angel Network.
Bob’s 1946 Ford coupe memories included a trip to see Elvis.
Gore Hill students learn from Indigenous artist
On March 22, Ms. Sales’ Grade 7/8 class at Gore Hill Public School participated in World Water Day, a global event dedicated to raising awareness and taking action to protect Earth’s precious freshwater resources.
This year’s focus was particularly meaningful as students engaged in Indigenous education, learning about the deep cultural and spiritual significance of water, especially in Indigenous communities.
As part of their participation, the students took part in a special painting activity led by Ojib-
we storyteller and artist Isaac Murdoch. Murdoch shared stories about the gifts that water provides and introduced the students to Red Feather Woman, a powerful figure in Indigenous teachings. Red Feather Woman is the human form of Thunderbird Woman — an environmental superhero who is half human, half Thunderbird. She has come to protect the Earth from environmental destruction while spreading love and peace to the world.
Inspired by Murdoch’s teachings, the students painted their own repre-
UPCOMING EVENTS
WEDNESDAY,
GRIEF COUNSELLING - Sue Mannell and Melissa Jacobs explain Hospice Services including Bereavement Support.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14TH • 10 AM - 11 AM
CHRISTINE REID from Reid’s Funeral Home explains End of Life Affairs.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11TH • 10 AM - 11 AM
STRAWBERRY SOCIAL with entertainment by Musical G’s.
sentations of Red Feather Woman, reflecting on the importance of water not just as a resource, but as a sacred and life-giving force.
This hands-on experience encouraged them to think critically about water conservation, Indigenous perspectives on environmental stewardship, and the urgent need for action to ensure clean water access for all.
World Water Day serves as a reminder that water is more than a necessity — it is a gift that connects all living beings. Ms. Sales’ students have embraced this message through art,
storytelling and advocacy, making a meaningful contribution to the global movement for sustainable water management.
Fundraising Banquet
SATURDAY, APRIL 12 TH
Doors open at 5:30 pm • Dinner at 6:00 pm Family Style with Dessert Buffet & Cash Bar @ Leamington Portuguese Club 217 Talbot Street West Entertainment by the Ryan Fountaine Jazz Trio
Tickets $75
(Tables of 8 or 10) Avaliable through SWO Gleaners
SWO GLEANERS BANQUET SPONSORSHIPS
Carrot Sponsor: $2000
Potato Sponsor: $1000
Pepper Sponsor: $500 Donations can be made through our website swogleaners.ca or by e-transfer to swogleaners@gmail.com
For more information, please contact the Southwestern Ontario Gleaners 40 Industrial Road, Leamington • 519-326-7687 swogleaners@gmail.com www.swogleaners.ca
Grade 7 and 8 students at Gore Hill P.S. painted their representations of Red Feather Woman at a special event honouring World Water Day. From left to right are grade 7 students Camryn Barnewall and Megan Sawatzky and grade 8 students Katie Desborough and Ann Harich-Lawzer.
Photo submitted
Teamwork, supporting local business emphasized by warden
By Ron Giofu River Town Times
Working collaboratively and supporting one another were just two of the themes highlighted at the 2025 Warden’s Luncheon last week.
Hosted by the Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce and Libro Credit Union, the luncheon was held to a packed house at the Ciociaro Club in Tecumseh.
Warden Hilda MacDonald went over her priorities and those of the County of Essex during her address.
MacDonald pointed out the region always supports each other, whether it be through the COVID-19 pandemic, major flooding events, ice storms and the 2008 financial crisis. She said the same will happen amid trade tensions with the United States.
“One of the superpowers
of this region is the strong support we show each other in times of trouble,” said MacDonald. “No matter what the political or economic climate, we can count on our friends. They may disagree with us and even do things that make us angry sometimes, but when the chips are down, they have our backs and we have theirs.”
“We don’t have much control over this trade chaos, so I want to focus on the friends who are stepping up and how we can support each other,” she added.
She stated federal and provincial partners are making Canada’s voice heard in both Washington and around the U.S. and developing strategies to support businesses that are being damaged by tariffs and uncertainty.
“Essex County Council has endorsed a resolution encouraging our federal and provincial partners to follow through on removing interprovincial trade barriers that hamper our ability to support Canadian businesses,” she said. “We understand that this will be tricky, but we also know it can be
done. Now is an ideal time to forge ahead. No matter what happens with the tariff threats, establishing strong east-west economic connections from coast to coast will serve to unite this country much like the transcontinental railway in the 19th Century.”
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens leads the Border Mayors Alliance and that alliance includes all seven Essex County mayors. MacDonald — also the mayor of Leamington — said they are ready to stand with Dilkens to stand up for the region and country.
She also commended the Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce and Invest Windsor-Essex for heading up a local economic trade task force, something she said the county is a part of.
“Canadians, including those of us here in Essex County and Windsor, are showing our support by flying our flag with pride and choosing to spend our dollars at home, whether we shop in person or online. When we spend a dollar at a small local business, 66 cents stay here. If we spend that dollar at a multinational retailer, only 11 cents stay here,” she said, noting those figures come from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business. “It’s vital that we continue supporting the local businesses that have long supported us – the ones that sponsor little league teams and so many worthwhile charita-
22, 1959 - April 3,
ble causes while creating jobs that feed our families.
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the heartbeat of our communities.”
The County of Essex is examining the viability of a “buy Canadian” strategy, as are other government organizations across the country, MacDonald added.
She pointed out that while a strong local business base is needed, the area can’t thrive without investments by multi-national corporations.
“When they invest, we benefit not just from the jobs they create and the products they purchase but the know-how they bring. When our workforce absorbs their expertise, it becomes part of what makes Windsor-Essex a great place to invest,” said MacDonald.
She said the County of Essex has a solid financial foundation to maintain and enhance services like roads, regional planning, trails, bike lanes, EMS service, libraries and support services. The new hospital, the Gordie Howe International Bridge and the NextStar Energy battery plant are also still coming.
“Essex County is experiencing historic growth fueled by these investments. Our exceptional and affordable quality of life is also attracting newcomers to the county.”
Housing is still a priority for the county, the warden stated, noting the county’s updated Official Plan
places an emphasis on ensuring there are a wide range of housing options that are affordable and attainable for county residents.
Environment is another priority, she added, stating the county supports efforts to increase natural area coverage from nine per cent to 15 per cent. There are also plans to continue adding to the County-Wide Active Transportation System (CWATS).
“We recently took another big step forward in connecting communities when County Council funded the Leamington to Windsor transit line. Council has also directed administration to establish a Regional Transit Working Group to engage all local municipalities regarding a regional transit system that would benefit us all. Transit Windsor already extends into LaSalle, Amherstburg, Tecumseh, Essex, Kingsville and Leamington, so the foundation for regional transit has been established,” said MacDonald. “We need to look at more and better connections between County of Essex municipalities. Right now, someone from Amherstburg can get to Essex or Leamington by transit but they have to go through Windsor. I envision a day when the bus can travel in other directions, providing residents in the County more options and faster and more reliable service.”
Warden of Essex County, Hilda MacDonald, speaking at last week’s Warden’s Luncheon. Ron Giofu photo
MCB students learn how to build microbusinesses
Grade 7 students at Mount Carmel-Blytheswood Public School recently participated in the Youtopia program run by students at the University of Windsor School of Business.
The elementary students learned how to build their own microbusinesses from the
ground up. They each created a product that they sold at a school flea market.
Next, they will pitch their product ideas to the university students, showcasing their business plan and the results of their selling experience, including profits accounting for expenses.
Top students will be in the running to be included at the competition level of the program.
A wide variety of unique products were created, such as keychains, rings, bookmarks, bracelets, dog tags, bath salts and greeting cards.
Ada M. sells the hockey wax she created as part of the Mount Carmel Blytheswood Youtopia program. Photos and names submitted
Amelia L., Olivia W. and Arianna G. sell the stickers they designed of their pets as part of the Mount Carmel Blytheswood Youtopia program.
Joye Walling
Ellen “Joye” Walling (nee Wallace) passed away unexpectedly at her home on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at the age of 89.
Predeceased by husband Herb (2014).
Loving mother of Graydon Walling (Alexandra) and Britt Walling (Vicki). Daughter of the late Harvey and late Josie Wallace. Sister of the late Robert “Shorty” Wallace and Judy Bloemen. Aunt of LeeAnne Liddle, Becky Wallace and Mike Bloemen (Julie).
Joye spent her later years at home and despite mobility issues she was a strong woman with a strong faith in God and a love for pizza. She also loved watching the Maple Leafs and Blue Jays. If she missed the end of the game she would always ask in the morning, “Who won the game last night?” Hopefully she still gets her sports channels in heaven.
As per Joye’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted to Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631).
A private family graveside service will take place at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made by cheque to Erie Shores Health Foundation.
Friends may share memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Mary Dietz
September 24, 1933 – March 26, 2025
Mary Dietz, 91 years old, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at Erie Shores Hospice in Leamington.
She was the wife of the late Jacob “Jake” (2013). Beloved mother to Marianne Dyck and husband Rudy, and Robert Dietz and wife Betty (nee Schiefer). Loving Omi to five grandchildren and their families. Sister-in-law to Lorenz Dietz and wife Katie, Helmut Dietz and wife Marie. Many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends also survive. Predeceased by her parents John (1972) and Katie Stein (1974), sisters Elizabeth Leinburger (1980) and husband George (1981), along with their son Erwin (2004), sister Katie Seil (2007) and husband Joe (2022), and brother-in-law Frank Dietz (2012) and wife Dorothy (Johnston) (1987).
Mary, along with her husband Jake, spent 50 plus years on a farm growing cash crops. After Jake’s passing, Mary moved to an apartment on Sherk Street where she stayed for a few years until she didn’t want to cook and clean anymore. She moved to Chartwell until she was called by Leamington Mennonite Home. She moved into the retirement side and stayed for seven years. The home became hers, where she spent time being active. She loved Bingo and playing SkipBo. She will be missed.
Mary was a founding member of the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and the Rhine Danube Club. She served on committees at both.
Visitation was at Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Monday, March 31, 2025 from 1:30 p.m. until the funeral celebration at 2:30 p.m. Interment at Erie Memorial Gardens
Memorial donations on behalf of Mary can be made to the Leamington Mennonite Home, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church or Erie Shores Hospice.
Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Proof of obituary to run
Lynn Marie Bateman
$200 plus $26 HST = $226
Lynn Marie Bateman passed away peacefully on Monday, March 31, 2025 at Windsor Regional Hospital, at the age of 69 years, after a long battle with cancer.
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca
Thank you.
She leaves behind her husband Dean Bateman of 20 years. Beloved sister of Denise (Dave) Wallingford, Jacqueline (John) Graham and Anne Marie Regnier. Loving mother to Ryan and Tyler (Angela) Dittus.
She will be fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews. Adored Meme of Jesse Dittus, James Dittus and Jenna Dittus.
She will be greatly missed by all of her family and never forgotten.
William Maisonville
William Charles Maisonville passed away peacefully on Monday, March 24, 2025 at 93 years of age.
Proof of obituary to run
April 2, 2025 Southpoint Sun
Beloved husband of Shirley McFarlane for 29 years. Loving father of Belinda. Cherished grandfather to several grandchildren. Son of the late Maurice and Ruby Maisonville. Bill was predeceased by seven brothers and sisters.
Bill retired from Chrysler Canada after many dedicated years of service as an electrician. He loved going fishing.
$200 plus $26 HST = $226
As per Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or funeral service.
Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca
Thank you.
Tim Goyeau
Tim Goyeau, 67 years, passed away Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
Beloved husband of Sandra (nee Torode). Loving father of Robert Goyeau and Caitlin Goyeau (Edwin Markey). Son of the late Milton and Dorothy Goyeau. Dear brother of the late Dale Goyeau (Sam), Susan Dibbley (Mike) and Laurie Hotz (Henry). Brother-in-law of Bill and Mary Anne Torode. Tim will be missed by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Tim retired from Chrysler as an electrician. He liked the outdoors, spending time walking and on his motorcycle. He drove school bus in retirement for Switzer-Carty.
Memorial visitation was held on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. until the funeral service to celebrate his life at 12:00 p.m. Burial took take place at Lakeview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations made to Epilepsy Canada or the M.S. Society would be appreciated.
Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Proof of obituary to run
Alexander Watson
April 2, 2025
Southpoint Sun
$200 plus $26 HST = $226
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca
Thank you.
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Al Watson on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at the age of 68. Loving husband of Joan for 47 years. Beloved father of Nicole Lefebvre (Michael), Davin Watson (Brandi), and Corbin Watson (Danielle). Proud Opa of Colin, Amie, Gabriel, Dante, Avery, Cylus and Kieran. Dear brother of the late Beverly (John) Cowan, Deborah (Edward) Hornick, Mark Watson, Timothy Watson, Kim (Tracey) Bruner and Jamie Watson. Predeceased by his parents David and Theresa Watson, and his in-laws Annie and Ernest Vandenberg. He will be sincerely missed by his Godchildren Jeff Kelly, Michael Bruner and David Watson, as well as his many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.
Al retired from H.J. Heinz Company after 35 years as an electrician. In his retirement, he enjoyed doing upholstery at Universal Designs, revisiting a craft his father taught him. In kindness, memorial donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or Erie Shores Hospice.
As per Al’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service was held. Arrangements entrusted to Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington 519-3262631.
Proof of obituary to run April 2, 2025
Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Southpoint Sun $200 plus $26 HST = $226
Rinaldo Mike Longo
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca
Thank you.
A resident of Kingsville, Rinaldo Longo passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Erie Shores HealthCare at the age of 85.
Reunited with his loving wife of Ersilia Longo for 58 years.
Dear father of Nicola Longo and Angelo Longo (Teresa).
Cherished grandfather of Vanessa, Thomas, Rinaldo and Donovan. Brother of Raffaele Longo and wife Giuseppina, the late Carmine Longo, the late Mercedes Diana and husband the late Felice, all of Buenos Aires, the late Alesandra Cipollone and husband the late Giovanni, New York, the late Giuseppina Busico, and the late Bambino Longo and wife Argentina. Rinaldo will be sincerely missed by his extended family and friends.
Proof of obituary to run
April 2, 2025
Southpoint Sun
He worked at Heinz and construction for many years. As well, Rinaldo loved walking and jogging all year round. He was a great father, always happy and friendly with everyone he was around.
$200 plus $26 HST = $226
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca
We would like to thank the staff at Bayshore, Paramed and Care Partners, especially his PSW Angela, for the amazing care they took of Rinaldo, and the compassion they had for both him and his family. We would also like to thank the staff at Erie Shores for their patience and care during Rinaldo’s stay.
Thank you.
Memorial donations to Erie Shores Health Foundation or St. Michael’s Church would be appreciated by the family. Visitation was held at Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington, on Tuesday April 1, 2025 from 7-9 p.m.
Visitation continues at Reid Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 3, 2025 from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Mass of the Resurrection to celebrate Rinaldo’s life will be held on Thursday April 3, 2025 at St. Michael’s Church, 29 Elliot Street, Leamington, at 11 a.m. Entombment to follow at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.
Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Gleaners holding annual banquet April 12
The Southwestern Ontario Gleaners will hold their annual fundraising banquet on Saturday, April 12 at the Leamington Portuguese Club, with all proceeds going to the Gleaners.
The Southwestern Ontario Gleaners is a not-forprofit charity whose mandate is to convert non-marketable produce into dehydrated vegetable mix and apple snacks. The finished product is distributed, free of charge, to hunger relief agencies locally, nationally and internationally.
In 2024, volunteers and staff processed and distributed over 5.5 million servings of dried soup mix and apple snacks to Ukraine, Africa and Central America. And locally, food banks, schools and other agencies continue to distribute Gleaners products to help people in need.
“The need has increased quite a bit — locally and globally,” says Gleaners founder and treasurer Tina Quiring, “and this our biggest fundraiser.”
The evening will include a keynote speaker, live entertainment and raffles.
Tickets ($75) are available through The Southwestern Ontario Gleaners by calling 519-326-7687 or emailing swogleaners@gmail.com. You can also visit them at 40 Industrial Road in Leamington to inquire about tickets. Sponsorships are also available.
Leamington Bridge scores
The following are the top-scoring teams in recent Bridge games at the Leamington Half Century Centre. Bridge lessons are available. If interested, call 519-738-4939.
March 24: 1st Shirley Morel and Mac Stanley,
2nd Katy Klym and Rowe Deans, 3rd Pauline Mikolash and Roger Cote. March 28: 1st Pauline Mikolash and Roger Cote, 2nd Case Mulder and Tracy Mitchell Robinet, 3rd Al Morrison and Claudette Sulek.
Kingsville Friendly Club weekly report
Kingsville Friendly Club vice president Dave Patterson welcomed 42 out to play cards on Tuesday, March 25, welcoming Sharyne Segave and welcoming back Kathy Hedge from the sunny south.
Bridge: Carolyn Brown 3610, Case Mulder 3410, Roy Trowell 2540. Euchre: Sheila Bachmeier 80, Marg Fittler 79, Theodore Gaffan 77, Tom Dewhurst 76. Most lone hands: Willy Fittler 4. Cribbage: Marie Geeves 580, Sue Girardin 565, Stuart Wheelton 560. Pepper: Bill Field-
ing and Dave Malley 291, Winnie Moore 280, Carrie Schultz 239. Most peppers: Bill Fielding 5. There were 54 out to play cards on Friday, March 28, with Sharyne Segave becoming the newest member. Bridge: Carolyn Brown 4200, Mary DeGoey 3660, Alta Van Vliet 3550. Euchre: John Gerhardt 96, Dave Patterson 93, Ted Gaffan 91. Most lone hands: John Gerhardt 6. Pepper: Janice Breault 334, Della Dyck 286, Rhoda 282. Most peppers: Della Dyck 6.
POULTRY
LEAMINGTON FAIR MAY 22, 23, 24, 25
Prize List and entry information for Exhibitors, Crafters and Culinary
EXHIBITOR MUST HAVE PHONE NUMBER AND ADDRESS ON ENTRY FORM
RULES:
1. All entries are subject to the general rules of the Leamington Fair Board plus the requirement of this department and are bound by them.
2. Entry forms must be in the hands of the secretary by May 15th, 2025.
3. Any bird not listed on the entry form will not be accepted, any or all exhibits showing signs of sickness, will be removed from the showroom and no award or prize will be given.
4. All AOV entries must be correctly named.
5.All entry fees are $0.50 per bird, rabbit etc. Junior entries (18 and under) there is no fee.
6. All exhibits shall be in position for judging before noon on Thursday May 22nd, 2025.
7. Exhibits will be accepted Wednesday May 21st, 2025 from 2pm –8:00pm. Feed and water will be supplied by the Board.
8. No one is allowed to enter into a discussion with or interfere with the judges in any way while they are in the performance of their duties. If an Exhibitor wishes to appeal a decision of the Judges, they shall deposit $10 with the Board. If the appeal is upheld, the deposit is returned, if not upheld it shall remain with the Board.
9. Note; any fowl not entered in the correct section or class will be automatically disqualified. Section shall designate #1 Cock, #2 Hen, #3 Cockerel, #4 Pullet in poultry where applicable. #1 Old male, #2 Old female, #3 Young bird in Pigeons, Ducks or other young birds which are difficult to sex. Classes shall designate breed, whether standard, bantam, or other variety, to be shown in space on entry form. In AOV, (any other variety), classes there must be 2 exhibitors to form a class.
10. No exhibit shall be removed prior to 5:00pm on Sunday May 25th, 2025. Anyone who does so must contact the Director in charge. At time of judging, no one is allowed in the building except Judges and the Committee.
Rosette for reserve in class of chickens, waterfowl, pigeons and rabbits.
Sr. Prizes – 1st -$6.00, 2nd-$5.00, 3rd-$4.00 Jr.Prizes – 1st- $4.00, 2nd-$3.00, 3rd-$2.00 Class J1 Bantams: Cock, Hen, Cockerel & Pullet
Seedlings
Exhibitors may have as many as two entries per Class.
4 Plants of the same variety per entry.
Judged on colour and uniformity.
All entries must be correctly identified.
Prizes: 1st - $4.00 2nd - $3.00. 3rd - $2.00
Class 85
1) Tomatoes
2) Cucumbers
3) Peppers
4) Melons
5) Pumpkin
6) Squash
Class 86
Small Animal Travel Carrier.
Entry must be home made.
One Entry per Exhibitor.
Will be judged on Appearance, Functionality and Design.
Prizes: 1st - $4.00. 2nd - $3.00. 3rd - $2.00
ADULT ARTWORK & PHOTOGRAPHY Convenors - Office
RULES:
1. One entry with membership fee of $3.00
2. Artwork must be an original created by the exhibitor.
3. Artwork must be submitted by Thursday May 15th, 2025 at the Janette Mulholland Activity Center between 9:00am and 7:00pm.
4. Only one entry to be submitted for each numbered section. Exhibitors bringing in late exhibits will still be allowed to display their work but it will not be judged.
5. Any artwork in the opinion of the judge and the committee that has been exhibited more than two years may be disqualified.
6. All exhibits must have tags filled out with the correct exhibitor’s number
7. Pick up: Exhibitors must make arrangements to claim their exhibits on Sunday May 25th between 5p.m. and 7p.m. NO EXHIBITS ARE TO BE REMOVED BEFORE THIS TIME. No responsibility will be assumed for any exhibit not removed within this time and date. Prizes 1st -$5,00, 2nd $4.00, 3rd $3.00
1. Oil painting
2. Water colour
3. Drawing – charcoal, pencil or any other medium
4. Ceramics
5. Sculpture
6. Photography there must be 3 photographs mounted for each category Farm implements Things that are blue Flowers
Animals Outhouses Sunsets Smiles
CULINARY ARTS – CLASS 26 Amanda Dunn – Culinary arts director, Loralee Scratch – Culinary arts director
RULES AND REGULATIONS:
1. Only one entry to be submitted for each numbered section
2. Baking to be shown on white paper plates in clear plastic bags. NO TAPE PLEASE
3. Society will not be responsible for the return of personal baking containers
4. All baking or preserves are to be homemade by the exhibitor
5. All jars will be opened by the judges
6. Remove all papers from baking.
7. If entering a item under Any other please specify what the variety is.
8. All entries to be submitted on Wednesday May 21st, 2025 from 10 am – 7pm ready for judging in the Janette Mulholland Activity Centre.
9. All prizes except where otherwise stated will be as follows: 1st -$10, 2nd $8, 3rd $6
10. NO TIES FOR PRIZES
11. .Junior is age 18 and under
Bread - Prizes 1st -$10, 2nd - $8, 3rd - $6
1. White – one loaf
2. Whole wheat – 60% - 1 loaf
3. Fruit bread – yeast
4. Any other 5. Cinnamon buns 3 on a plate
6. Tea biscuits 3 on a plate
7. Scones 3 on a plate
8. Buns
9.
12. Create a muffin 3 on a plate
13. Donuts - any variety 3 on a plate
Pies - Prizes are 1st - $14, 2nd - $12, 3rd - $10 (Pies only)
14. Apple – two crusts
15. Strawberry rhubarb – two crusts
16. Cherry – lattice top, in memory of Martin Teskey $50
17. Blueberry – two crusts
18. Chocolate
19. Lemon Meringue
20. Pecan
21. Any other pie not listed
22. Pie crust empty
23. Strawberry tarts 3 on a plate
24. Lemon tarts 3 on a plate
25. Butter tarts 3 on a plate - Sponsored by Bruce Medcalf
26. Coconut tarts 3 on a plate
27. Cheesecake tarts – any variety 3 on a plate
28. Plate of tarts - three kinds – two of each
29. Any other tarts not listed 3 on a plate
30. Quiche – any variety
Cookies - Prizes 1st -$10, 2nd - $8, 3rd - $6
31. Chocolate chip 3 on a plate - Sponsored by Bruce Medcalf $20
32. Peanut butter 3 on a plate
33. Decorated sugar cookies 3 on a plate
34. Molasses cookies 3 on a plate
35. Shortbread 3 on a plate
36. Oatmeal 3 on a plate
37. Thumbprint 3 on a plate
38. Snickerdoodles 3 on a plate
39. Plate of cookies – three kinds – two of each
40. Any other cookie not listed
41. Gluten Free Cookie - any kind - named
Cake - Prizes 1st -$10, 2nd - $8, 3rd - $6
42. White – 8” round with WHITE frostingCake must be WHITE, not yellopw
43. Chocolate – 8” round with chocolate frosting
44. Carrot – 3 layer, cream cheese icing - Secretary Special $20
45. Red Velvet - Sponsored by Bruce Medcalf $20
46. Cheesecake
47. Angel food cake
48. Three-layer cake
49. Gluten Free - any variety - named
50. Banada Cake - NO NUTS Sponsored by Loralee Scratch $20
51. any other cake not listed
52. Decorated cupcake cake Celebrating the Leamington Fair
53. Brownies – 4 cut into 2” squares
54. Date squares – 4 cut into 2” squares
55. Any other squares – 4 cut into 2” squares
56. Cupcakes – 3 decorated
57. Gluten free cupcake - any kind - named
58. Welcome Neighbour tin containing an assortment of baked goods
Candy - Prizes 1st -$10, 2nd - $8, 3rd - $6
59. Fudge 4 - 1” pieces
60. Peanut brittle 4 pieces
61. Any other candy not listed
Home canning - Prizes 1st -$10, 2nd - $8, 3rd - $6
62. Strawberry jam – cooked
63. Strawberry Jam - freezer
64. Strawberry jelly
65. Raspberry jam
66. Peach jam
67. Apricot jam
68. Any other variety of Jam
69. Any other variety of jelly
70. Peaches
71. Pears
72. Cherries
73. Applesauce - Sponsored by Joanne Dixon $20
74. Sweet pickles
75. Dill pickles
76. Asparagus
77. Beets
78. Pickle relish
79. Sauerkraut
80. Peppers
81. Spaghetti sauce
82. Beans
83. Chili sauce
84. Any other pickled items
Junior Culinary Arts – 18 years and younger
Cookies any other variety
Cookies - Gluten Free - named
89. Three cake pops
90. Three candy kabobs
91. Muffins –Three any variety
92. Brownies – three on a plate
93. Haystack cookies – three on a 6” plate
94. Cupcakes – three decorated
95. Fudge – two 2” squares
96. Decorated cake celebrating the Leamington fair
97. One loaf homemade bread – any variety
98. Quiche – any variety
99. Rice crispy squares 2 shaped and decorated
100. Tea party treats 4 different kinds on a plate
101. Decorated Christmas cookie – three on a plate
102. Tin of friendship cookies
103. Popcorn Balls
JUNIOR CULINARY SPECIAL CLAY POT CAKE - Sponsored by Connie Salter
1st $50, 2nd $30, 3rd $20
The entry is to be a cake baked and decorated in a 4" clay pot
HOMECRAFTS
Amanda Dunn - Homecraft Director Loralee Scratch – Homecraft Director RULES AND REGULATIONS
1. One entry with $3.00 membership
2. Entries are to be submitted by Thursday May 15th, 2025. To the Janette Mulholland Activity Centre. A committee will be prepared to receive entries between 10 am and 7pm. Please no exhibits before or after these times.
3. Only one entry to be submitted for each numbered section. Exhibitors bringing in late exhibits will be allowed to display their work but it will not be judged.
4. Any article in the opinion of the judge and the committee that has been exhibited more than 2 years may be disqualified. Judges of this department are authorized by the director of the Society to disregard all soiled, defaced or old work, and award prizes to new and modern work.
5. All exhibits must have tags filled out with the correct exhibitor’s number.
6. NO TIES FOR PRIZES.
7. In case of no competition, unless the exhibit is worthy, the prize may be withheld.
8. Junior is under the age of 18.
9. Pick-up: Exhibitors must make arrangements to claim their exhibits on Sunday, May 25th, 2025 between 4pm and 6pm. NO EXHIBITS ARE TO BE REMOVED BEFORE THIS TIME. No responsibility will be assumed for any exhibit not removed within the time and date specified.
Class 25
Standards for judging entries in Class 25 will be based on colour, harmony, good design, good proportion, suitability of material, workmanship and cleanliness. Prizes except where otherwise stated will be awarded as follows;
1st - $8, 2nd - $6, 3rd - $4
Living Room Accessories
1. Afghan crochet, no less than 40”x 60”
2. Afghan and other technique no less than 40” x 60”.
3. Pillow any kind.
4. Wall Hanging – pieced, maximum size 48” x 60”
5. Wall Hanging – machine applique, maximum size 48” x 60”
6. Wall Hanging – any other technique, maximum 48” x 60”.
Dining Room Accessories
7. Placemats – two any style
8. Table Runner – any technique maximum 48” x 60”
9. Doilies
Kitchen Accessories
10. Potholders – two, quilted
11. Pot Holders – two, novelty
12. Tea towels set of two
13. Oven door hanger – any technique
Bathroom Accessories
14. Face Cloth
15. Hand towel
16. Decorated guest towel
Bedroom Accessories
17. Afghan – baby size, crochet
18. Afghan – baby size knitted
19. Pillowcase – one pair, any technique
20. Miniature quilt – pieced, maximum 24” x 30”
21. Blanket – Any technique – no less than 40” x 60”
22. Doll bed quilt – minimum size 20” x 25” up to a maximum size of 25” x 30” doll bed quilt, any technique, original design – no pattern help. Quilted by maker, hand or machine.
23. Doll blanket Crocheted or Knitted.
Quilts - Prize money $10 - $8 - $6
24. Quilt – crib size, pieced, machine quilted by maker
25. Quilt – crib size, pieced, professionally machine quilted
26. Quilt – crib size, machine appliqued, machine quilted by maker
27. Quilt – crib size, cheater cloth panel, hand quilted
28. Quilt – crib size, cheater cloth panel, machine quilted by maker
29. Quilt – crib size, any other technique or combination
30. Quilt – lap size, pieced, machine quilted by maker
31. Quilt – lap size, any technique, hand quilted
32. Quilt – bed size, pieced and hand quilted
33. Quilt – hand appliqued – hand quilted
34. Quilt – bed size, pieced, machine quilted by maker
35. Quilt – bed size, pieced, professionally machine quilted
36. Quilt – bed size, appliqued, professionally machine quilted
37. Quilt – bed size, appliqued, machine quilted by maker
38. Quilt – bed size, pieced and appliqued mixed, professionally machine quilted
39. Quilt – hand embroidered quilt any size, machine quilted
40. Quilt – red work, professionally machine quilted, any size
41. Quilt – bed size, any combination of techniques, no cheater, and hand quilted
42. Quilt – bed size, any combination of techniques, no cheater, professionally machine quilted
43. Any quilt, any technique - tied
44. New quilters 1st quilt any size quilted by maker
45. Any group quilt – any technique
46. Quilt – top only – pieced
47. Quilt – top only – any combination of techniques
48. Quilt blocks – 4, mounted minimum 4” x 4”, pieced
49. Quilt blocks – 4, mounted minimum 4’ x 4”, hand appliqued
50. Quilt blocks – 4, mounted minimum, 4” x 4”, any combination
51. Quilt – any technique
52. Quilt - any technique
Accessories - Prize money 1st - $8, 2nd - $6, 3rd - $4
53. Decorated grapevine wreath
54. Wreath made from articles of nature
55. Wood working any article
56. Jewellery – any article, handmade
57. Jewellery – set of 2 any combination
58. Any recycled art jewelry
59. Doll – hand made, stuffed
60. Porcelain Doll handmade
61. Purse – any technique
62. Tote bag – quilted
63. Tote bag – any style
64. Felted Article
65. Cross stitch – framed, ready to hang
66. Any other technique – framed picture
67. Infant sweater – bonnet – booties – crochet
68. Any other crochet article
69. Crochet – adult slippers
70. Crochet animals
71. Infant sweater – bonnet – booties – knitted
72. Knitted sweater
73. Knitted socks
74. Knitted Hat and Mitts
75 Any other knitted article
76. Rug – any technique
77. Any article of looming
78. Recycle a bag – made from and recycled article
79. Any other article made from recycled fabric
80. Any other craft not listed
81. Any article of clothing – sewn – crochet – knitted etc. Holiday Corner
82. Any three holiday decorations – not made from a kit 83. Holiday wreath – any style 84. Holiday gift bag
85.
Having recently made its way from dry dock in Hamilton, the Pelee Islander II made its first voyage of 2025 from Leamington to
II departs the harbour in Leamington for the first time in 2025. In the bottom photo, the crew was clearly excited to be back in action as they boarded the Pelee Islander II for its first journey of the season to
Gore Hill receives grant for pickleball equipment
Gore Hill Public School recently received a grant from the Hickling Gill Family Foundation to purchase pickleball equipment. The Hickling Gill Family Foundation is led by Todd Hickling, son of Mr. Harold Hickling, a past Principal of Gore Hill Public School.
The school gymnasium is named in Mr. Harold Hickling’s honour, recognizing his lasting impact on the school community. This special connection makes the foundation’s support even more meaningful to the Gator community.
“This year’s donation will allow the students and staff to engage in Pickleball, a sport known for its inclusivity, accessibility and ability to bring people of all ages and skill levels together,” said
Gore Hill Principal Beth Adlam.
With the new equipment, students will have the opportunity to develop their skills during Physical Education classes, as well as in extra-curricular programs that encourage participation beyond the school day. Staff members will also have the chance to engage in the sport.
“We are incredibly grateful for the continued and generous support of the Hickling Gill Family Foundation and the meaningful partnership we have built,” said Adlam. “Their generosity not only enhances our physical education program but also aligns with our school’s values of inclusion, kindness, and community engagement.”
Lois Fairley Award nominations open
Nominations are now open for the 18th annual Lois Fairley Nursing
“Jim
Award, recognizing the many dedicated and wonderful nurses who make a difference every day with their patients in the community.
The award is selected and given by the Windsor-Essex chapter of the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO) through nominations received from the public.
The award is named for Lois Fairley, a graduate of Grace Hospital’s nursing program in 1955 who spent her career serving patients at Grace Hospital as a nurse and head nurse. She also served the nursing profession as a member of the Provincial Board of Directors of RNAO, served as President of the Ontario Nurses Association and on St. Clair College Nursing Program Advisory Committee.
Unfortunately, Lois
passed away in 2007, and the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario instituted this award for Windsor-Essex in 2008.
“If you, or a loved one, have ever needed nursing care in a hospital, at home or through our public health nurses, you know the difference that an outstanding nurse makes with patients and their families,” says Lois’ son John Fairley.
The nomination process is easy. In 500 words or less, create a story about how a nurse impacted the life of a patient, a family, their workplace or their community. For more information and nomination form, visit the website at loisfairleynursingaward. com.
Entries must be received by April 25 and the award presentation will take place during Nurses Week in May.
Pelee Island on Monday evening, March 31.The ship’s bumpers were removed on Monday morning by a massive crane and the vessel made an early test run in the Leamington harbour in preparation for its regular sailing schedule that began on April 1. In top photo, the Pelee Islander
Pelee Island. SUN photos by Paul Forman
In the left photo, Todd Hickling, of the Hickling Gill Family Foundation, poses with teacher Lindsay Coristine in front of the Gore Hill gymnasium that was named in honour of his father, past Principal Harold Hickling. In the photo on the right, Owen Watson, in Ms. William’s Grade 2/3 class, is ready to play. Photos submitted
OLD PHOTO TIME
Photos courtesy of If You Grew Up in Leamington Facebook page.
Photo courtesy of the Kingsville Archives
April 1974 - In the
Look
Leamington’s Past courtesy of C. Scott Holland
The boats could be taken through the placid canal or out into the rougher waters of Lake Erie. This photograph of an unidentified family, standing outside the Cedar Beach Drug Store, was taken in the late 1940s or early 1950s.
Leamington’s Past courtesy of the C. Scott Holland Collection kingsvillearchives@gmail.com
March 2000 saw the final Mrs. Pep Wind-Up Dance at the former Leamington arena auditorium. The late Mrs. Jean Pepper, who helped operate the Kinsmen Kanteen at the rink, gave a tearful and heartfelt goodbye to a large gathering as board member Ron Sellon looks on.
Photo couresty of the C. Scott Holland Collection
A carload made up of the McIntosh family stops at the Point Pelee gates to visit the park in the 1950s. The photo appears on the If You Grew Up In Leamington Facebook page and the park warden is identified as possibly being Lawrence Dupuis.
A mainstay of Leamington’s uptown for decades was Bateman’s Meat Market on Erie Street South. The original market opened in 1919 and then three years later moved across the Street. From left are Billy Bateman, George Nicholson, Earl Lott, Jack Harris and Mr. Bateman’s grandson, also named Bill.
Stickles Service Station at the southwest corner of Erie and Mill in Leamington. The year is unknown. From left are Harold Watson, Velda Stickles Matheson and Lorne Stickles.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to distracted driving.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, a burst of energy propels you to move forward. It feels like everything is clicking, and you are full of ideas and brimming with contagious enthusiasm.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
You are in the mood to get down to business this week, Taurus. It’s a great time to focus on your career or finances. Pay attention to all of the little details as you go along.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Curiosity takes control this week, Gemini. Opportunities for learning are all around you. You just need to look for them. It may be a new class or a trip that you take with friends.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, this week you may have a lot of emotional processing going on, particularly regarding relationships or past experiences. Embrace these deeper feelings.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Your social energy could be off the charts this week, Leo. Others will be drawn to your magnetism and self-confidence. It is a great time to network or collaborate.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Efficiency and productivity are the name of the game right now, Virgo. When it comes to organizing and planning, you will be all about getting things done in a timely manner.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, this week is a time for self-expression. You may find yourself pulled toward hobbies or artistic endeavors that enable you to showcase your talents.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
This is a time to dive deep into your home and family life, Scorpio. You want to create a sense of stability at home and address anything that might compromise that. Trust your gut with how to move forward.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Communication is the key this week, Sagittarius. Initiating important conversations and speaking directly with others is a great way to clear the air and get to the root of these issues.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, you are focused on your financial wellbeing this week, but other issues may fall by the wayside. You might have to bring in someone else to keep the balance.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Personal goals and ambitions are front and center this week, Aquarius. This could put you in the spotlight and showcase what you want to accomplish to those around you.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, this week invites you to slow down and recharge your batteries as much as possible. You might feel pulled to spend time alone or simply get away for a few days.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
MARCH 30 Céline Dion, Singer (57)
MARCH 31 Christopher Walken, Actor (82)
APRIL 1 - Randy Orton, Wrestler (45)
APRIL 2 - Zach Bryan, Singer (29)
APRIL 3 - Paris Jackson, Model (27)
APRIL 4 - Robert Downey, Jr., Actor (60)
APRIL 5 - Lily James, Actress (36)
AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY.
Very clean & comfortable newer brick 1,100 sq. ft 2 bdrm 1 bthrm end unit townhome in Leamington w/main flr laundry. Open concept w/cathedral ceiling in living rm/kitchen & dining rm, gas fireplace & rear patio deck w/fenced yard. New carpet thru-out & freshly painted. $2,100/mth includes all appliances, utilities & cable TV. All prospective tenants must complete application first. 519.322.9282. fe5-tf
oc30-tf
SUTTON PLACE APARTMENTS
11 McGaw St., Leamington Upscale apartment for rent. On-site personable, experienced manager. Excellent location, walking distance to large retail chain stores. One bedroom, 1 bath, fridge, stove, dishwasher, water, heat, hydro included. In-suite storage, elevator, outdoor balcony/patio, common room, beautiful lobby, 1 outdoor parking space, secured access included. On-site laundry room. $1,795 per month. To request an application email gourmetgreenshouse@gmail.com Text or call 519-791-6751
CONFIDENTIAL
PREPARATION OF personal, senior and farm income tax returns. Regular or E-filing. Pickup and delivery as well as contact free service available. Over 35 years experience. Call Tim Mousseau 519-975-2414 or toll free 1-855-975-2414. fe5-ap16
IRWIN PLUMBINGResidential rough-ins and repairs. Starting April 2nd 519-825-7245 will be changing to 519-324-2202. A text is preferred if capable. Call if not. ja6-tf SERVICES
ZEN PETS GROOMINGCPPS Certified Groomer in Leamington. 16 years experience. For all your pet grooming needs, please call or text 519-564-9620 or message me on Facebook. COVID-19 certified & compliant. mr1-tfn
TO BUY pre1980s vintage die-cast vehicles and toys. Hot Wheels, Matchbox, Dinky. For a fair and free estimate call Todd at
GARAGE SALE
GARAGE SALE - INCLUDES a 2003 Chevy Heavy Duty, a fridge, materials and tools. Saturday, April 5 at 21324 Allen Rd., Wheatley, starting at 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ap2
ITEMS FOR SALE INDUSTRIAL SERGER
WITH big table, 5-thread, 2-needle. Fast machine. Asking $800 or best offer. Also Singer 1-needle sewing machine with table. Sews leather & jeans material and all kinds of material. A very good machine with its own cabinet. Price $350 or best offer. Solid wood dining table & 6 chairs with matching buffet & curio cabinet. Call 226-248-0356 or cell 519817-0168. ap2
NOW HIRING TRUCK DRIVERS
by phone 519-326-8840 ext. 5 Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
BACK-TO-BACK CHAMPIONS
On Monday March 31, Southpoint Sun faced off against Sunparlour Locksmith for the championship game in the Monday Night Ladies Hockey League in Wheatley. It was a rocky start for the Sun as they were down 2-0 halfway through the second period. Then they turned the jets on with a beautiful five-hole goal scored by Danielle Simpson-Watson, followed by Lea Marshall, who scored to tie the game assisted by Kathryn Ciacelli. The third period came with excitement as linemates Jess Cecile and Kim Goyeau had back-to-back goals assisting each other, upping the score to 4-2. Locksmith scored late in the third, but it wasn’t enough as the final buzzer went and Southpoint Sun came out on top with a 4-3 win to take the title for the second year in a row. Back row, left to right: Kathryn Ciacelli, Mackenzie Mahon, Danielle Simpson-Watson, Lea Marshall, Krista Marshall, Taryn Azzopardi. First row: Joy Tremblay, Kim Goyeau, Jess Cecile, Jaclyn Woelk, Lexy Tulett. In front is goaltender Tina Manning. Absent: Brie Davis.
Community Calendar
THURSDAY, APRIL 3
LDSS TRIVIA NIGHT FUNDRAISER 6:00 p.m. at Roma Club Pavilion. Cost is $20 per person (teams of four) and all proceeds go to help LDSS MAPS students compete in Special Olympics Provincials in Ottawa. Contact Dina at dina.riccio@publicboard.ca to sign up.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9
LEAMINGTON HALF CENTURY CENTRE IS HOSTING a Seniors Advisory Committee Event from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. at Leamington Half Century Centre, 160 Talbot St. E. Grief Counseling. Sue Mannell & Melissa Jacobs will explain Hospice Services including Bereavement Support.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9
ESSEX COUNTY FIELD NATURALISTS CLUB WILL MEET at 7:30 pm at Ojibway Centre, 5200 Matchette Rd. Speaker: Kristyn Richardson of Nature Conservancy of Canada. Topic: Overview of the Conservancy - who they are, what they do, their work in Essex County, including restoration projects, acquisitions and upcoming projects i.e. restoration of Hillman Sand Hills near Point Pelee. All welcome, free to attend.
FRI., SAT. SUN., APRIL 11, 12 & 13
SEUSSICAL JR. PRESENTED BY LITTLE TOMATO CHILDREN'S THEATRE - Fri. April 11 at 7:00 pm; Sat. April 12 at 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm; and Sun. April 13 at 2:00 pm. at Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School Auditorium, 120 Ellison Ave., Leamington. Adults $20, children 12 and under $10. For tickets email littletomatotix@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16
LEAMINGTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY - 7:00 pm at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N. Leamington. Shaun Booth, author of “The Gardener’s Guide to Native
Plants of the Southern Great Lakes Region” will be doing a YouTube workshop on the benefits and method of building Rain Gardens. For information or to inquire about membership call Jo-Anne Smith 519-322-8809.
ONGOING
ERIE SHORES TOASTMASTERS MEETING at 6:30 p.m. every other Wednesday at Leamington Library, 1 John St. Free to attend. Develop Communication and Leadership Skills in a positive, friendly environment. Upcoming dates: April 9 & 23, May 7 & 21, June 4 & 18. More info: email ErieShoresTM@ yahoo.com, Facebook Erie Shores Toastmasters or go to ErieShores.toastmastersclubs.org.
URSA MAJOR’S LITTLE BEAR CAFE COMMUNITY BREAKFAST every Monday (except holidays), 1860 Division Rd. North, Kingsville. Ursa Major Day Support Program’s community breakfast awaits with free coffee, tea, and simple eats — available while supplies last. Open to the whole community. We welcome everyone to join in the good food and fellowship. For more details, visit www.UMLSC.org or email contact@umlsc.org.
COMMUNITY TAKEOUT IS AVAILABLE at Leamington United Church, 4:00 - 5:00 pm every Monday. St. John’s Anglican Church also has takeout meals available every Wednesday from 4:00 - 5:00 pm. Food is available from St. Vincent De Paul at St. Michael’s Parish 226-340-7233, Salvation Army Food Bank 9:15 - 11:45 am. The warming Cross at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Food Cupboard at St. John’s Anglican church, The Bridge (ages 14-24), Food Pantry at Parkdale Variety, neighbourhood pantry at Erie South and Marlborough and the Angel Pantry at St. John’s Anglican Church. All are free. All are welcome.
Greenway gates stolen
Two 12-foot gates preventing motorized vehicles from accessing the Cypher Systems Group Greenway in Essex have been stolen.
“As crews were undertaking maintenance along the Greenway Trail systems in preparation for spring, it was discovered that the two 12-foot gates at the Pinkerton intersection of the Greenway Trail had been completely removed,” said Kevin Money, ERCA’s Director of Conservation Service. “Removing these steel gates would have required a significant amount of coordination by the perpetrators, including removal with tools and loading the heavy gates into a large trailer.”
Replacement is expected to cost several thousand dollars.
ERCA is asking anyone noticing unlawful or suspicious activities at conservation areas or along trails to report them to the police.
Earlier this month, a significant fire ravaged Tremblay Beach Conservation Area. While nearly 40 acres of the wetland were burned and kept fire crews on scene for several hours, fortunately, no infrastructure was damaged. The Lakeshore Fire Department believes the fire resulted from an unpermitted open burn within the conservation area.
“These types of incidents impact the use of conservation areas by the public and can result in many thousands of dollars in repairs and replacement costs,” Money added. “If someone sees activities that seem amiss or could lead to damages, we encourage them to contact local authorities.” ERCA is also asking if anyone has information about the missing gates to contact the OPP’s non-emergency number or report it anonymously through Crimestoppers at www.catchcrooks.com.
History walk in Chatham
A Downtown Chatham History Walk will take place on Saturday, April 5 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, THAT’S YOUR BUSINESS If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous: 519-999-1234.
SOUTH ESSEX COMMUNITY COUNCIL - ADULT DAY PROGRAM - Join us at Faith Mennonite for a day service providing social, recreational and personal support to clients and respite. For more information or to register, call SECC at 519326-8629 or visit our website at secc.on.ca.
FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE at Leamington United Mennonite Church, 78 Oak St. East, for those who enjoy morning coffee/tea and conversation, the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 a.m. in church auditorium. All welcome, no RSVP required.
INDIVIDUALS WHO REQUIRE ASSESSMENTS TO ENTER TREATMENT PROGRAMS FOR ADDICTIONS can contact Ian MacNeil, Social Worker with Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare, located at 33 Princess St. (1st floor) in Leamington, on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. You can leave a message 24/7 at 519-984-2531. Contact Ian at this number for more information.
ERIE SHORES QUILT GUILD cordially invites guests to attend/ join them for their regular meeting held every third Tuesday at St. John’s Hall, 1782 Oriole Park, N. Woodslee, at 7:00 p.m. The Guild's purpose is to promote and encourage and encourage the art of quilting. More info: 519-726-5869.
STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL HEALTH? Reach out to Hope 4 Me Peer to Peer Support Group. Virtual and in-person meetings available. Contact Tracy, Sue or Nancy at hope4mepeer@gmail.com for information about the group.
Participants will hear stories about arson, haunted buildings, 200 years of floods on the Thames River, the Black Mecca, shipbuilding, the opera house, famous criminals and crimes, and more as walkers visit buildings and places in the downtown.
To join the walk, meet under the Centennial Clock at the Downtown Chatham Centre, corner of King Street West and Fifth Street.
The Walk will be led by
Clair Culliford of The Veranda Presents.
There will also be A Downtown Chatham Mural Walk on Saturday, April 12 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., again starting under the Centennial Clock. Walkers will visit new and old downtown murals and hear about their subjects and construction.
Walks will continue throughout the spring and summer. They are busks. If walkers enjoy the experience, they may toss money in a hat.
More information is at theverandapresents.ca.
Photo by Ryan Goyeau
Two gates similar to the one depicted in this photo have been stolen from the Cypher Systems Group Greenway at Pinkerton Road in Essex.
Photo courtesy of ERCA
390 Talbot St. N. Essex
519-776-6447 chrisbabkirk@kenknappford.com
Wednesday, April 2, 2025
Flyers sweep Sabres, on to West Conference final
By C. Scott Holland
It was a busy week for the Leamington Flyers as they played three games in four nights, but ultimately swept the Buffalo Junior Sabres in four straight games.
After blowing out the Jr. Sabres by a 6-1 score on Tuesday, March 25, Thursday night’s home game featured over 1,000 fans plus the excitement of a jumbotron TV that flashed messages, replays and portions of the game. The jumbotron was situated at the rink’s north end and received a wide variety of comments.
There was plenty of end-to-end action and few penalties Thursday, although many fans might have wanted a few more whistled. But when the dust had cleared at the end of 60 minutes, the Flyers had won 4-3 and taken a 3-0 series lead.
They followed that with a 4-1 victory in Buffalo on
Saturday to end the series. Tuesday night’s victory came after the opening frame was knotted 1-1.
Leamington’s domination began in the second frame during which they expanded to 3-1 before Colton Smith finished a one-man assault on the Jr. Sabres by notching a hattrick and Marcus Vandenberg halted 22 of 23 shots while Buffalo’s Anthony Alessi stopped 23 of 29.
Owen MacDonald’s left point cannon knotted the game late in the first. Midway through the second, Brody Cook’s powerplay tally boosted the Flyers into the lead. Colton Smith began his hattrick at 19:00 with a blast from the left faceoff circle and it was 3-1 for the Flyers. Near the 12-minute of the third, Smith went on a breakaway and gunned a left lane shot that sailed into the net. About 90 seconds later, Gavin Grundner plucked a right side
rebound and drew it to Brayden Degelas, who was anchored in the slot. Degelas ripped it immediately for goal five. Smith completed his hattrick at 17:50 with a left lane screen shot.
On Thursday, the two teams battled to a scoreless first period draw.
Ashton Darocy and Griffin Grundner laid the groundwork for captain Adrian Bosev, who plucked a right side rebound and flicked it past Buffalo starter Dylan Grover. Near the seven-minute mark, Dalton Kane and Gavin Grundner hooked up with Brayden Degelas whose left lane low liner eluded Grover and gave the Flyers a 2-0 lead.
But a defensive lapse and subsequent Flyers’ penalty allowed Buffalo to knot it at 2-2. Brody Seitz drilled a right lane shot past starter Marcus Vandenberg and a powerplay
goal by Cam Doran not long afterward.
The Flyers regained a slim one-goal lead when Gavin Grundner’s left lane pass connected with Michael Denney in the slot. Denney gunned the puck and caught Grover off guard.
Buffalo outshot the Flyers in the third, but it was Bosev who nabbed the eventual game-winner at 8:16. That tally put the Flyers ahead 4-2 but the Sabres refused to go quietly. They battled hard and Michael Kull was allowed to enter the Flyers’ zone unchecked and released a shot that made it 4-3 at 11:41.
During the remaining eight and a half minutes, the Flyers played with defensive responsibility. They blocked shots and thwarted as many scoring attempts as they possibly could while Marcus Vandenberg made some timely saves to gain a 4-3
victory and lead the series 3-0. Both goalies finished with 30 saves each.
“In game two we played a pretty good game and executed on our special teams,” said head coach Dale Mitchell. “We did an excellent job taking away grade A chances from them (Buffalo) and scored on ours.”
“On Thursday, we came out flying and were awesome for the first five minutes,” Mitchell added. “I thought Buffalo weathered the storm well and played a good game. They battle tested us and we managed to hold on for the victory.”
On Saturday night in Buffalo, the Flyers looked to close out their second-round series and they did just that with some strong goaltending and defensive work by Vandenberg who stopped 15 of 16 shots.
After a scoreless first, the Flyers took a 1-0 lead
on Griffin Grundner’s solo drive at 19:01 of the second.
That one goal lead held until a shorthanded goal by Buffalo’s Cam Doran at 11:59 of the third tied the game. The Flyers replied with a shorthanded tally of their own off the stick of Cade Bell at 14:43.
The Flyers’ defense went into high gear the rest of the way and Buffalo lifted goaltender Alessi with two minutes left for an extra attacker.
Michael Denney banked an empty-netter off the boards only seconds after a faceoff and then Marquis Brown tabbed a second one at 18:27 with a shot straight down the middle.
The Flyers will start the West Conference finals versus the Milton Menace with game 1 here. Check various media and the OJHL website for updates on West Finals schedule, which was not available at press time.
CHRIS BABKIRK
Flyer forward Michael Denney (22) watches as his shot sails past Buffalo goalie Dylan Grover, while teammate Brayden Degelas is checked as he moves in for a rebound during late second period action. Scott Holland photo
Stars U11BB win league championship
The Southpoint Stars U11BB are league champions.
At the end of February, the top 16 Southern Ontario teams in U11BB started their quest for the ultimate title.
The three top-rated teams in the province — Southpoint, Windsor and London — were in one division.
In round one the Stars defeated Woodstock in two games by scores of 7-0 and 6-1.
Also in round one, Windsor Wildcats defeated London Devilettes in three games.
In round two, the Stars and Windsor played a hard fought four-point series with the Stars winning the series by scores of 1-1, 1-1 and 3-0.
At the same time, the Burlington Barracudas had defeated Oakville and Etobicoke to advance to round three.
On a rainy Saturday, the Stars travelled to Burlington and came home with a 5-2 win. The next week, Burlington travelled to Southpoint only to be defeated 7-0.
The Southpoint Stars had punched their ticket to a one-game showdown against the Toronto Leaside Wildcats. On the line was the grand prize, the U11BB Ontario League Championship being played in Toronto’s backyard, Etobicoke.
In the final game, the first period ended 1-0 for the Stars and the second period 2-0, but Toronto was not going away without a fight.
Midway through the third period, the Wildcats scored to make the score 2-1.
The Stars answered 44 seconds later to restore the two-goal lead, then 40 seconds after that scored again, making the score 4-1.
Again, Toronto played strong and got one more in the final minute, but when the final buzzer sounded the Southpoint Stars claimed the U11BB Ontario League Championship with a 4-2 win.
Throughout the playoffs the Stars played great games, displaying their passing skills, speed, hard shots and never-quit work ethic.
In those eight games, Avery Anderson had three
shutouts and only allowed seven goals. The defence — made up of Mila Epplett, Everly Fischer, Tegan Grubb, Emmy Beaudoin, Keira Anthony and Mikayla Pope — all played strong to limit dangerous shots.
Forwards JJ Dufour, Rylee Goodall, Opal Deneau, Ella
Epplett, Sarah Beaudoin, Scarlett Graham, Wynne St. Aubin, Emma Robinson and Eva McKeen contributed to scoring 34 goals.
The Stars have one more challenge — the OWHA Provincials held April 11-13 in Etobicoke.
The Southpoint Stars U11BB defeated the Toronto Leaside Wildcats to win the Ontario League Championship. Team members are: in front, goalie Avery Anderson. First row, left to right: Ella Epplett, Rylee Goodall, JJ Dufour, Emma Robinson, Everly Fischer, Keira Anthony, Opal Deneau, Scarlett Graham. Second row: Wynne St. Aubin, Eva McKeen, Makayla Pope, Emersyn Beaudoin, Tegan Grubb, Sarah Beaudoin, Mila Epplett, trainer Kaitlin Davidson. Back row: Assistant coach Curtis Anderson, head coach, Mark Epplett, assistant coach Andy Anthony.
Photo submitted
Blazers U15 advance to OMHA championships
The Talbot Trail Blazers U15 hockey team opened up their Bluewater League final series against a tough team and familiar foe, the Kent Cobras, last week.
On Sunday, Talbot hosted the Cobras in Leamington and, just as expected, it was a battle between two physical and talented hockey teams.
The Blazers struggled to find their true game throughout and as a result found themselves down 1-0 midway through the opening frame. But with 1:29 to play in the first, after just staying onside, AJ Youssef fed Nash Fuerth in the slot. His first attempt was stopped, but on his second attempt Fuerth ripped his wrist shot in blocker side.
Then, with nine to play in the second, Fuerth intercepted a Cobras’ clearing pass at the blue line and stepped in, wiring his snapshot just under the bar to take the lead.
Each team traded chances the rest of the way, but the score never changed as Talbot skated away with the hard fought 2-1 win.
On Tuesday, March 25 the Blazers traveled to Tilbury to face off with Kent Cobras in Game 2 of this four-point series and were hoping to improve their play. And that they did. At 1:30 in, the Blazers found themselves behind on a defensive zone giveaway, but it was all Blazers from this point forward.
A little over three minutes later, while on the power play, Nash Fuerth stopped a clear at the blue line and went bar down with his wrist shot to even the score.
A few minutes later, on a misplay by the goalie, AJ Youssef shoveled the puck to the net where Austin Goudie found the rebound and jammed it in.
Next, with 38 seconds remaining in the opening period, during a goalmouth scramble, Youssef was able to find the puck and slip it in across the line to increase the lead. With nine minutes remaining in the second, Fuerth and Goudie found themselves in on a 2-on1 with Fuerth finishing by firing his shot in low blocker. With 2:43 to play
in the middle frame, Nathan Mariuz tied up his man off the draw and Nick Magri swooped in and rifled his shot high glove to go up 5-1.
The Cobras got a little
closer in the third by scoring on a power play goal, but the Blazers went into shutdown mode. Kent added a late goal with 21 seconds remaining with their goalie pulled, but
that was as close as they would come as the Blazers claimed the Bluewater League Championship and punched their ticket to Whitby to compete in the OMHA Championships April 4-6. Kevin Ondic, in net for the Blazers, made numerous big saves in both games to backstop his team in both wins.
SHOP LOCAL.
The U15 Talbot Trail Blazers defeated the Kent Cobras to move on to the OMHA Championships April 4-6. Team members are, kneeling, left to right: Lucas O’Neil, Nash Fuerth, Braylon Aflak. Standing, left to right, as they appear: Tyler Dillen (Trainer), Dylan Impens (Assistant Coach), Charlie Ketler, Larry Jeffrey, AJ Youssef, Austin Goudie, Nicholas Chisholm, Kelton McCabe, Connor Rumble, Nicholas Magri, Nathan Mariuz, Kevin Ondic, Max Pyne, Nolan Jones, Isaiah Georges, Zack Dillen (Assistant Coach), Tony Youssef (Head Coach), Brayden Foster.
Photo submitted
Trio of Flyers recognized by league
As the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL) hands out their regular season awards, Colton Smith and Marcus Vandenberg are being recognized for their impact on the league this year.
The two Flyers overagers have been recognized as First Team AllStars, while Smith has earned the OJHL’s Top Scorer Award.
Smith had 46 goals and 95 points this season, both league highs, along with eight game winning goals.
Smith reached a rare distinction by scoring against every team in the OJHL this year.
Vandenberg was selected as Top Goaltender in the league, after leading all netminders in wins, goals against average and save percentage.
As the awards continue to be announced, Smith and Vandenberg will be considered for the MVP Award, while Vandenberg may add Goaltender of the Year to his trophy case.
Flyers winger Brody Cook has also been acknowledged by being selected to the OJHL’s Second Team Top Prospects list.
Cook had 16 goals and 31 assists for 47 points in 55 games as a rookie.
Golden Years mini golf
There were 64 players playing 36 holes of mini golf at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens on Thursday, March 27.
Leading the way with six aces were Jamie Arquette and Randy Nash, followed by Patty Hopper and the amazing Betty McManus with 5 aces. Four aces were scored by Andy Orsini, Linda Chiasson, Kaz Wszol, Bob Springthorpe and Bill Taylor. Nancy Springthorpe, Lloyd Symons, Mary Ann Sherman, Ron Fick, Ray Foster, David Tonks, Keith Hopper and Tom Hyatt scored three aces; Bruce Cooper, Linda Lavender, Ernie Purr, Walter Balsam, Julia Kos, Andre Lalonde, Debbie Clinton, Kathy Klym and Geoff Reid two aces; and Armand Decaluwe, Barb Haas, Colleen Pearse, Tom Bondy, Penny McMurphy, Marti Knox, Shran Collins, Zena Raymond, Kathy Bechard, Joanne Law, Jane Vandentop, Constance Budd, Theresa Decaluwe, Jack Bostin, Moe Sweet, Bill Ward, Bob Tanner and Jackie Cooper one ace.
Top score over 18 holes was Jamie Arquette with 33, followed by Debbie Clinton, Randy Nash and Jamie Arquette 34, Andy Orsini 35, Lloyd Symons, Bill Edwards, Randy Nash, Keith Hopper and
Tom Hyatt 36, Ron Fick, Walter Balsam, Patty Hopper, Bill Ward and Tom Hyatt 37, Lloyd Symons, Ernie Purr, Ray Foster, David Tonks and Keith Hopper 38, and Armand Decaluwe, Colleen Pearse, Tom Bondy, Andy Orsini, Greg Broome, Larry Hillman, Allan Munson and Shran Collins (x2) 39.
Leading the way over 36 holes with 67 was Jamie Arquette, followed by Randy Nash with 70 and Tom Hyatt with 73. Lloyd Symons, Andy Orsini and Keith Hopper scored 74, Debbie Clinton and Ron Fick with 77, Shran Collins, Ernie Purr, Bill Edwards, Patty Hopper and David Tonks 78, and Ray Foster, Greg Broome and Bill Ward 79.
First place went to Team 7 (Andy Orsini, Bill Edwards, Ernie Purr and Walter Balsam) with 311. Second place was Team 11 (Bob Springthorpe, Patty Hopper, Greg Broome and Randy Nash) with 311. In third place was Team 15 (Keith Hopper, Jackie Cooper, Bob Tanner and Bill Ward) with 322.
Fun, laughs and also golf will continue on Thursday, April 3, 2025 at 10:30 a.m.
LDSS sports are back with badminton season in ‘full swing’
By Emery Stapleton
And we’re back with more Leamington District Secondary School sports action!
The LDSS badminton season is in full swing having played several exhibition tournaments this past week.
On Wednesday, March 26th, the team travelled to Pain Court where they competed in their annual tournament.
In senior boys singles, Logan Fortin made it to the quarter-finals.
In girls doubles, sisters Sara and Lisa Driedger also made it to the quarters.
And the returning champions, Drake Wigle and Ryan Krueger, lost their boys doubles semi-final, but won the bronze medal match to finish in third place. Great job athletes!
The student council has many events in the works, including the annual student-teacher hockey game. Every year the cocky young hotshots lace up the skates to take on the seasoned veterans for the most
ultimate of bragging rights. The occasion usually includes a skills competition for junior skaters, an elegant and graceful figure skating performance, some type of crowd participation game and, as always, delicious concessions.
Last year, rather than playing students against staff, the teams were mixed. The format this year has yet to be decided but should be finalized shortly.
Stay tuned for further hockey and LDSS sports updates.
COLTON SMITH
MARCUS VANDENBERG
BRODY COOK