Despite a national victory for Prime Minister-Elect Mark Carney and his Liberal Party, local voters returned both Conservative incumbents to their respective seats as Dave Epp and Chris Lewis both sailed to victory in Monday’s federal election.
Member of Parliament Chris Lewis took 57.3 percent of the vote, beating Liberal challenger Chris Sutton by 16,494 votes. Lori Wightman of the NDP garnered 4,044 votes and Jason Henry of the People’s Party came in with 834 votes. There was one poll remaining outstanding as of press time.
Mr. Lewis’ campaign party was held at the Michigan Diner in Essex, where campaign supporters and family awaited his arrival once the results were clear. His father, Kim Lewis, talked about how proud his late wife was of her son.
“My wife always told him, always tell the truth and it’ll set you
free,” said the senior Mr. Lewis. Chris Lewis responded with, “Mama, this one’s for you!”
Lewis thanked the voters, his team and family before settling in for a well-deserved celebration.
“Thanks to the folks of Essex for putting their faith in me for a third term,” he said. “Thanks to my amazing wife Allison and my wonderful family.” He also mentioned several members of his campaign team by name, thanking each and every one of them for their hard work.
In Chatham-Kent Leamington, MP Dave Epp also returned for a third term with 57.7 per cent of the vote, defeating Liberal challenger Keith Pickard by 15,758 votes. Seamus McInnis Fleming of the NDP came in third with 2,917 votes, while Trevor Lee of the People’s Party (1,052) and James Plunkett (752) of the Green Party finished fourth and fifth, respectively.
Mr. Epp’s official campaign party was held at Tru Restaurant in Chatham, followed by a family and friends get-together back at his Leamington home.
“It is truly humbling to re-
ceive the trust and support from the residents of Chatham-Kent–Leamington,” he told supporters and media. “I’m humbled and honoured. It’s actually not a prize that’s won, but a trust to be honoured. It means listening, and I will continue to listen.”
While Mr. Epp was quick to thank his team, his family and the voters, he also thanked his opponents and their teams.
“Democracy only works when people have a choice,” Epp explained. “And so, I congratulate and thank the four other individuals for putting their names on the ballot. And I thank their volunteers. Because that is what grassroots democracy is in this country. The people are right, the people are always right.”
And despite the national outcome, Epp says he will make it a priority to take the voices of Chatham-Kent Leamington to Ottawa.
Both candidates and their respective teams were out early Tuesday removing lawn signs to wrap up their campaigns.
There were two local incum-
bents that didn’t fare as well in Monday’s vote, with long-time NDP MP Brian Masse and longtime Liberal MP Irek Kusmierczyk both sitting on the outside looking in as of press time.
Mark Carney’s victory came after a close race with Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, winning 49 per cent to 42 per cent in the popular vote with 99 per cent of polls reporting by press time. Carney’s Liberals were sitting at 168 seats on Tuesday morning, while the Conservatives had 144. A minimum of 172 seats is required to form a majority government, which was still in doubt at press time Tuesday morning.
Mr. Carney became Prime Minister on the resignation of Justin Trudeau on March 14. He had been chosen at a Liberal leadership convention that weekend — taking over at a time when Liberal support appeared low across the country.
His subsequent dealings with U.S. President Donald Trump and the looming tarriff situation gave the party a boost and Carney then called an election for April 28.
Dave Epp speaks to reporters at Tru Restaurant in Chatham after results came in on Monday night. Pam Wright photo via Chatham Voice
Chris Lewis arrives at his campaign party at Michigan Diner in Essex, speaking to reporters Monday night. Mark Ribble photo
Water restrictions in Wheatley
Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission (CK PUC) is implementing lawn watering restrictions for ALL customers, both residential and commercial, on municipal water in Wheatley and Tilbury. The water restrictions went into effect April 24 and are as follows:
• This applies to lawn watering, all irrigation uses and all other non-essential uses of the potable water supply.
• Customers with odd numbered addresses will be allowed to water their lawns on odd numbered days.
• Customers with even numbered addresses will be allowed to water their lawns on even numbered days.
• There will be a 2-month grace period for newly sodded lawns.
“Due to the current limitations of the water treatment system in Wheatley and the warmer weather that this region has been experiencing, lawn watering has placed extra demands on the Water System,” said Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission Director of Operations, Karen Burgess. “This is the first step in the restrictions. CK PUC may need to implement further restrictions if the water system does not see any relief.”
Nature and Garden Show Saturday
The Kingsville Nature & Garden Show, presented by Kingsville’s Communities in Bloom (CIB) committee, is happening this Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Grovedale Arts and Culture Centre (103 Park Street).
Attendees can get insights from local experts through short lectures, buy native plants and other gardening goods from local vendors, meet like-minded individuals, learn about ways to im-
prove environmental sustainability and discover ways to enhance your gardening skill.
Kids can create a nature-themed craft with the Arts Society of Kingsville in attendance.
Admission is free.
A number of speakers will be on hand to share their expertise.
Check out kingsville.ca and click on the News section for more information.
iodide pills distribution at the arena can still pick up a kit at Kingsville’s Municipal Office or at the Kingsville Community Centre starting May 5. SUN
photo by Paul Forman
POTASSIUM IODIDE PILLS IN KINGSVILLE
Phase 2 of Miyawaki Forest celebrates 75 years
By Mark Ribble
The Leamington Horticultural Society got help from municipal employees, local residents and about 20 Leamington District Secondary School students as they planted upwards of 600 more trees in Mersea Park the morning of Thursday, April 24.
This is the second phase of the “Anniversary Forest” planted in successive years at the rear of Mersea Park. Last year’s planting of 500 trees honoured Leamington’s 150th Anniversary, while
this year’s planting honours the Horticultural Society’s 75th anniversary.
Jo-Anne Smith, President of the Horticultural Society, once again led the planting of the saplings, complete with instruction on how to plant Miyawaki style.
The Miyawaki forest method of planting trees that was used required them to be planted in close proximity to each other, as opposed to spacing them out.
“If you look in an actual native forest, trees are not all two metres apart,
like in most reforestation projects. They are close together and the plants actually help each other, rather than compete for resources,” says Smith. “They do compete for sunlight eventually, so the trees grow taller faster. Look at sapling trees in a forest. They may only be two or three years old, but they can be two metres tall.”
Last year’s saplings are beginning to fill in nicely and the fenced in area will be protected from wildlife that might want to snack on the saplings.
Leamington District Secondary School student Bianca Nael, left, helps Horticultural Society member Tracey Colenutt plant a pawpaw tree in Leamington’s Miyawaki Forest.
Horticultural Society members Charlie Wright, left, and Beth Smith plant three trees in a square metre area as part of the Miyawaki method of planting at Mersea Park on April 24. SUN photos
and Roll provides opportunity for families to honour loved
By Mark Ribble
ticipants are getting ready to run, walk or bike their way through the various courses, which will begin at the Hospice Erie Shores
property on Talbot Street West in Leamington. The day will feature a 5k walk/run/stroll, a timed 5k run, a 25k bike tour and the kids dash, known as the Roadrunner Race. Individuals and teams have pre-registered and obtained donations to help the cause and the foundation is honouring 63 people at this year’s event. The 2024 event raised $140,000.
One of those being honoured this year is the late Meghan Morin, who passed away May 28, 2024 at the age of 24.
Her team – Meghan’s Mob – will be out in full force to support the Hospice Erie Shores Campus in honour of their beloved friend, daughter
and sibling.
Meghan was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in November of 2021 during the height of the COVID pandemic.
Her mom Michelle spoke to the Sun last week about Meghan’s infectious personality, her faith and her zest for life — as well as her Hospice journey, which Michelle says was a godsend.
Meghan also developed brain cancer, skin cancer and ovarian cancer before her passing.
During her four-hour brain surgery in 2022, she was awake for the whole operation, where the doctors asked her to sing a song — a common practice to determine if the procedure is effective as
they are doing it.
“Most people sing Row, Row, Row Your Boat,” says Michelle. “Meghan sang Here Comes The Sun and knew every word.”
She also prayed during the surgery, a testament to her deep faith in God, which was a central part of her journey.
Her mom recalls a day in 2022 when Meghan received a call from her doctor, telling her that her brain cancer was in remission. The joy she showed while on that call really brought home the “here comes the sun” attitude that she carried with her.
For the upcoming Run and Roll event, Michelle had 18 hats embroidered with the words “Here Comes The Sun” as a nod
to her daughter and a life well-lived with positivity and kindness to others.
“Meghan lived a life that was incredible,” she said. “She was the most forgiving person I ever met.”
Hogs for Hospice even gave her four tickets to the Jake Owen concert in August of 2023 and Michelle says they had a great night as a family.
“She was pretty sick, but she wanted to go,” she says. “She had a great time that night. It was great to see her be a kid again.”
Popular amongst friends, family — and even strangers — Meghan brought a smile to all of their faces. Her friends’ group was large and spanned the whole country.
When it came time for Meghan to go to Hospice last year, she wanted to see the place first, so they arranged for her to have a tour of the building and the incredible grounds.
SEE RUN AND ROLL continued on Page 5
Meghan Morin receives the call in 2022 from her doctor — telling her that her brain cancer was in remission.
Photo courtesy of the Morin family
RUN AND ROLL - Continued from Page 4
“When we got out to the gazebo, two of her close friends were there waiting for us,” says Michelle. “They had come from across the country and she was so happy to see them.”
Just before leaving home for Hospice, she and her mom had a conversation that Meghan wanted recorded and played at her funeral service.
She spent eight days in Hospice and passed away the morning of May 28 last year. Over the course of her illness, she endured 1,104 hours of chemotherapy, 10 rounds of radiation, several surgeries and a round of immunotherapy.
“The very last thing she said to me was ‘I’m getting excited to go,’ ” says her mom.
She had a huge honour guard at Hospice on the morning of her passing. Michelle says that she touched so many lives that people were leaving work just to be there.
“Everybody always wanted to be around her,” she said. “I’m so grateful for Hospice.”
Michelle says that the family’s experience with Hospice was incredible, and so they feel the right way to honour Meghan is to help Hospice as much as they can. She and her husband Reg and Meghan’s sister Maddy are eternally grateful for the hospice experience.
After her passing, her friends group bought a commemorative bench in Meghan’s name that sits on the boardwalk tower at Point Pelee National Park — one of her favourite places to visit. There is a second bench in her name at Kennedy Woods near Jack Miner’s.
Her friends also received hearts with Meghan’s thumbprint on them — something Meghan set up so she’d be able to be there for their weddings and other life events.
If you’d like to learn more about Meghan’s journey, visit app.remember-well.com/medallion/3257_ MEMO/view/aboutme.
Meanwhile, organizers of the Run and Roll can’t wait to greet participants and their families on Sunday morning.
“We cannot wait to welcome over 700 participants to walk, run and ride for their community or in special honour of their loved ones,” says Erie Shores Health Foundation Executive Director Penny Bellhouse. “Run and Roll features a Cinco de Mayo theme, complimentary goodies in our piazza, live music, a kids zone, and so much more fun for the whole family! Funds raised at this event support patient care at Hospice Erie Shores and equipment updates at Erie Shores HealthCare.”
You can still register to participate until May 1 at runandroll.raceroster.com.
To make a donation to Run and Roll, visit eshf.ca/ event/eshf-run-and-roll.
The heart with Meghan Morin’s thumbprints, made special for her friends and family. Photo courtesy of the Morin family
The 2024 Run and Roll Memory Wall. This year, the Foundation is honouring 63 people on the wall. Sun Archives photo
opinion ~ expression ~ and other musings
Will April showers bring May flowers?
As I sit here on this stormy morning, long after everyone’s Easter parade has ended, looking forward to April showers bringing May flowers, I have reflections on what is to become of this wonderful world.
Someone said something long ago that it’s the end of the world as we know it, and perhaps they were thinking of Monday. Monday’s election results have most of
my conservative friends ready to pull out their hair and jump from who knows where.
But don’t worry, be happy. That’s the way I’ve always heard it should be and the world is always
Baseball star Babe Ruth with 1925 Nash
Scott Holland (“Mr. Leamington”) sent us this photo of baseball legend Babe Ruth (18951948) with a 1925 Nash sedan in Vancouver before the “Sultan of Swat” headed to Japan. Charlie Nash was president of General Motors in 1912 but left to build a car named after himself.
Opportunity knocked when he took over the Jeffery Car Company in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and renamed their cars after himself starting in 1917.
Nash cars were built for the next 40 years with the one-millionth Nash built in 1934.
THE OLD CAR DETECTIVE
Bill Sherk
Nash and Hudson merged in 1954 to create American Motors Corporation (AMC) and replaced both founding names with the popular Rambler and Ambassador after 1957. The compact Nash Metropolitan remained in production until 1962. If the 1925 Nash sedan in
the photo is still around, it would be worth a lot of money. Antique cars have gone way up in price. And if the original photo still exists with baseball star Babe Ruth standing beside this car, the photo could be worth as much as the car!
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full of ch-ch-ch-changes. With stormy weather on the horizon on this fine ruby Tuesday morning, I can’t help myself by thinking that Mr. Blue Sky is somewhere out there, hoping to poke through and bring another sunny day to the Sun Parlour of Canada.
Regardless of the news pulling us back to our television sets, where video killed the radio star, it’s important to keep on keepin’ on as we make our way into May, where dreams may come true.
And before you know
RIB’S RAMBLINGS
it, we’ll be walking on sunshine, happy to absorb the beautiful day, taking shelter from the storm and being able to stand tall enough to see over the rainbow.
Mark Ribble
As the thunder rolls into our little piece of heaven, I’m not insensitive to the sunshine that will follow. That dream is there — forever and always — will keep me hanging on to hope that the warmth of the sun will bring the light of day to all of us.
Sure, I could break out my umbrella and ask
who’ll stop the rain, but I love a rainy night here, there and everywhere. The rhythm of the rain often keeps me from going crazy and certainly makes me happier than a blackbird on a Sudbury Saturday night.
Have faith, little things are getting better all the time.
Now, you know the drill. There are 50 song titles hidden in this column — most of them alluding to spring. Good luck.
Knock three times for Tony Orlando FLASHBACK RADIO
Do you remember Michael Anthony Orlando Cassavitis? He just celebrated his 81st birthday earlier this month on April 3 in Manhattan. Perhaps you may know him better as Tony Orlando, the lead singer of the group Tony Orlando and Dawn.
Before he became famous in that group, if we go way back to 1961, Tony was only 16 years old when he was discovered by Don Kirshner who gave him two singles that made the top 40. His first release was “Halfway to Paradise” in May of 1961 which peaked at 39 after spending eight weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. That was followed in August with “Bless You”, which topped out at 15 after 12 weeks on the Hot 100.
After several other songs that lasted only one to three weeks on Billboard’s charts and never cracked the top 50, Tony Orlando
formed Dawn in 1970 which featured Tony and session singers Telma Hopkins from Louisville, Kentucky, and Joyce Vincent from Detroit. This indeed was the break-through year for Tony Orlando and Dawn. Their first single, “Candida”, that was released in late July spent 18 weeks on Billboard’s Hot 100 and reached #3. It went even higher reaching #1 on Cash Box’s charts. Their next single, “Knock Three Times”, released in November, also spent 18 weeks on the charts and topped Billboard’s Hot 100 and hitting #1 for five weeks in Great Britain. While their success weakened in 1971 and 1972, 1973 brought them tremendous success with “Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree”. It spent four weeks at #1 in both North America and Great Britain. Their
with Chuck Reynolds
next hit, “Say, Has Anybody Seen My Sweet Gypsy Rose” reached #3 in the U.S. Their last #1 hit, “He Don’t Love You (Like I Love You)”, topped the charts for three weeks in February of 1975. With all this going on, the Tony Orlando and Dawn Show on CBS from 1974 through 1976 was a very popular TV program. The group itself broke up in 1978, but Tony continued being a solo singer and often performed in Las Vegas and Branson, Missouri.
Since the 1980s, Orlando has hosted the New York City portions of the MDA Labor Day Telethon on WWOR-TV. However, he quit in 2011 in response to Jerry Lewis being fired from the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
THIS WEEK’S HIDDEN SONGS
Let’s see a home run with bases loaded!
Flowers - Miley Cyrus
Mamas and the Papas
Hair - The Cowsills
Jump - Van Halen (or Pointer Sisters)
Don’t worry Be Happy - Bobby McFerrin
That’s The Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be - Carly Simon 15. Changes - David Bowie
Stormy Weather - Lena Horne (or Etta James)
Ruby Tuesday Rolling Stones
Can’t Help Myself - The Four Tops 19. Mr. Blue Sky E.L.O. 20. Somewhere Out There - James Ingram/Linda
Beautiful Day U2
Shelter From The Storm - Bob Dylan
Stand Tall - Burton Cummings
Over The Rainbow - Judy Garland
Thunder Rolls - Garth Brooks
Heaven - Bryan Adams
Insensitive - Jann Arden
Sunshine - Jonathan Edwards
Follow That Dream - Elvis Presley
Forever And Always - Shania Twain
Keep Me Hanging On - Supremes
Warmth Of The Sun - Beach Boys
Light Of Day - Jody Raffoul
Umbrella - Rhianna
Who’ll Stop The Rain - Creedence Clearwater Revival
I Love A Rainy Night - Eddie Rabbit
Here, There and Everywhere - The Beatles
The Rhythm of The Rain The Cascades
Crazy - Patsy Cline
Blackbird - The Beatles
Sudbury Saturday Night - Stompin’ Tom Connors
Faith - George Michael
Little Things - Bobby Goldsboro
Getting Better All The Time - The Beatles
Southern Footprints attracts 364 participants
By Paul Forman
A
ing greeted runners at Point Pelee National Park
as they took part in the 22nd edition of the Southern Footprints races. Part of a series of charity runs put on by Walkers & Runners Around the County of Essex, the April 27 event offered a mascot run, a 1K kids’ dash, a 5K walk, and runs of 5K, 10K, and an ambitious 15K.
Race Organizer Dave Campbell, Coordinator
Denise Gaffan, Marketing Director Jenn Johns and Announcer Dave Orshinsky welcomed 364 participants who enjoyed snacks, drinks, swag and camaraderie following their efforts through the park forest.
This year’s proceeds from the runs will be generously donated to the local Crimestoppers, the
Leamington FireFighters Benevolent Fund and Southwestern Ontario Gleaners.
The Southpoint Sun mascot dash was once again won by Blaze the Windsor Warlocks Dragon as he competed against eight other mascots.
Months of training paid off for Grace Grande as she prevailed in the Kids’ Dash and was competing in this event for the first time.
Leamington’s Pure Flavor sponsored this year’s 5K race which saw two runners from Kingsville take the respective titles, Dave Owens on the men’s side and Sylvia Ross on the women’s side. SEE FOOTPRINTS continued on Page 9
perfect spring morn-
In the photo on the left of the page, Grace Grande is all smiles while crossing the finish line in first place in the 1K Kids’ Dash. In the photo above, the annual Southpoint Sun Mascot Dash was hotly contested — won again by Blaze the Dragon from the Windsor Warlocks, with Honkers the Goose from the Jack Miner Sanctuary flying in second. Other mascots included Stewie the Tomato, Sunny from the Southpoint Sun, Sparky the Fire Safety Dog, Aylmer the Safety Elephant, Solemate the Shoe from the Canadian Mental Health Association, the Special Olympics Polar Bear and Captain Strawberry from the LaSalle Strawberry Festival.
SUN photos by Paul Forman
- Continued from Page 8
The 10K race was sponsored by Leamington Chrysler and saw Brad Reiter take the crown in the men’s division, and all the way from Lethbridge, Janelle Bykowski taking the women’s crown. Trillium Distribution stepped up to
sponsor the Crimestoppers 15K with Chatham’s Dylan Morrison prevailing amongst the men and Leamington’s Lizbeth Coxaj prevailing amongst the women.
Pictured from the longest run of the day are Southern Footprints Race Coordinatator Denise Gaffan, 15K women’s champion Liz Coxaj, 15K men’s champion Dylan Morrison and Southern Footprints Marketing Director Jenn Johns.
On the left is the male winner of the 10K race, Brad Reiter, along with Southern Footprints Director Liz Campbell, race sponsor Tim Vida of Leamington Chrysler, female winner Janelle Bykowski and Marketing Director Jenn Johns.
Organizer Dave Campbell, left, is joined by 5K female champ Sylvia Ross, Savannah Liberato from race sponsor Pure Flavor’s marketing department, 5K male champ Dave Owens and Race Coordinator Denise Gaffan.
Three hundred sixty-four strong are pictured heading south as they began the 5K, 10K and 15K runs.
LDSS students take part in mock trial at Windsor courthouse
On Monday, April 14, students from Leamington District Secondary School participated in a Mock Trial competition organized through the Ontario Justice Education Network. This resolute team was successful in advancing to the semi-final round on Wednesday, April 16, where they earned second place medals for their success in the competition.
Grade 12 student Jasmine Cruickshank won Best Lawyer Advocate of the entire competition, which was held at the Superior Court of Justice in Windsor.
“It was a fun and exciting experience – these students jumped in with both feet, knowing nothing of what this would look like, and they did really well,” said teacher advisor Dina Riccio.
Kingsville Community Food Bank holds grand re-opening in new home
By Mark Ribble
The Kingsville Community Food Bank held its Grand Re-Opening on Thursday, April 24 at their new location on Mill
Street West.
The Lions Hall at 21 Mill Street West is the new host of the food bank and organizers couldn’t be more thrilled.
The food bank had been located at 18 Division Street North for 13 years and after the building was sold last year, they began looking for something suitable that would serve their needs for years to come.
“We had to be very specific on our location because many of our clients are walkers,” said Meghan Bolton, Co-President of the Kingsville Community Food Bank. “And the amount of renovations needed here was going to be costly.”
tance.
She and Co-President Heather Pillon say that the need for assistance locally has increased since COVID and that every donation counts.
Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers was on hand for the ribbon cutting on Thursday, saying, “We’ve been working hard at this for awhile.”
Rogers also said that the building will be seen
as an anchor for community groups in the future.
“Now you’re going to see a lot of our service clubs and groups be able to use this park,” referring to Lions Park.
“It’s our job as a municipality,” he said. “Help, support and get out of the way. That’s what we’re doing.”
Rogers says the town will continue to invest in the building to ensure
they are in it for the long haul.
To make a food or cash donation to the Kingsville Community Food Bank — or if you need assistance from them — reach out on their Facebook page or call 519-733-8591. You can also reach out via email at kingsvillefoodbank@gmail.com. Or you can always stop in during regular hours.
Paul Anthony Gaffan passed away peacefully on Monday, March 31, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Paul was born April 13, 1951 to his parents, the late Robert and Maria Gaffan. Dear father of Payton Gaffan, Courtney Gaffan and Damien (Jacqui) Gaffan. Grandpa of Max, Ashton, Maddison, Scarlett, Damien Jr., Roman and Joselyn. Loving brother of Kay Gaffan, late Helen Gaffan, late Jim Gaffan (late Janene), Morris Gaffan (Teresa), Joyce Terron (late Rick), Gloria Mertz (late Garnet), Ted Gaffan (late Sue), Rose Hanson (Norm), Charles Gaffan (Maddie) and Martha Gee (Dave). Also left to remember Paul are his many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends in Malta.
Visitation will be held at St. John de Brebeuf Church, 67 Main Street East, Kingsville, ON, on Monday, May 12, 2025 from 10 a.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m.
Burial will follow at Greenhill Cemetery.
Condolences and special memories can be shared with the family at www.Kendrickfuneralhome.com
In stepped Noah Homes and Truax Lumber, who both came to the aid of the food bank and gathered many more donations and volunteers along the way, covering the costs of making the existing space suitable for the food bank to operate in. In particular, Kyle Kocsis of Noah Homes spent considerable amount of time and hard work coordinating the renovations project.
They opened their doors on Tuesday, April 15 and remained busy that week.
They’ve signed a 10year lease with the Town of Kingsville, which owns the property. They are totally funded by donations and operated 100 per cent by volunteers.
The food bank is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 am to 12:45 pm and on Wednesday evenings from 4 pm to 7 pm.
Bolton estimates they feed between 150 and 200 people per week, with the age groups 3-18 and 31-50 requiring the most assis-
OPP raises $14,000 from grocery packing day
Essex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) packed groceries on Thursday, April 17 for their annual Essex County Cop Camp fundraiser.
This was the biggest fundraiser for the OPP Cop Camp, an annual event where approximately 80 grade 6 aged children attend Gesstwood Camp in Essex for a week of leadership and fun with the police.
The camp costs nothing for the campers who are selected to attend, and all monies collected during the Grocery Packing Fundraiser goes di-
rectly towards the cost of running the camp.
This year, officers packed groceries at Leamington Real Canadian Superstore, Kingsville Zehrs and Tecumseh Zehrs 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. and collected over $14,000 from the generous shoppers.
Essex County OPP and the Essex County cOPPs For Charity Committee extend appreciation to the community and participating stores for their generosity.
Paul Anthony Gaffan
On hand for Thursday’s ribbon cutting were, left to right, Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers, Kingsville Food Bank volunteer Irene Myers, Jeremy Truax of Truax Lumber, Kingsville Food Bank co-chair Heather Pillon, Kyle Kocsis of Noah Homes, Kingsville Food Bank President Meghan Bolton and Noah Homes’ Walter Branco. SUN photos by Mark Ribble
One of the aisles at the new Kingsville Community Food Bank home within the Lions Hall.
Pictured alongside Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia, right, who presided over the final competition, are, left to right: Victoria Fox, Sloane Sweet, Kailee Tait, Jasmine Cruickshank, Delila Haviland Van-Lare, Jane Larsen, Emry Murray, Delilah Heide and Kiona Friesen. Teacher advisors were Mr. Sean Miller and Ms. Dina Riccio. Photo submitted
Jane’s Walk provides a glimpse into local history
By Paul Forman and Mark Ribble
The Windsor-Essex
Jane’s Walk appeared in the area over the past weekend with three such tours in Kingsville on Friday, April 25 and another four in Leamington on Saturday, April 26.
The popular neighbourhood walking tours began in Toronto in 2007 and are now a global movement with over 500 cities across six continents taking part in the walks — named for urban activist and writer Jane Jacobs.
Jane’s Walks are always free and completely run by volunteers.
The Kingsville portion of Jane’s Walk on April
25 included three stops: Banding Together: The History and Legacy of Jack Miner & His Sanctuary on Road 3 West; Kingsville Architecture: From Log Cabins to a Postmodern Mall at the Kingsville Military Museum on Division South; and Swifts and Swallows – Sharing Heritage with Birds at John R. Park Homestead on County Road 50. Led by John R. Park Homestead Curator Kristin Ives, the last stop included a tour of their historic buildings that share a space with their feathered friends and aligns with a new exhibit in the site’s conservation centre about a variety of swifts
and swallows. Ives shared that nesting has grown on their grounds and serves an important role as the Kingsville area sits on a major migratory route for many birds.
In Leamington the next day, the four stops included The Bank Theatre, Migrant Worker Community Program Walk, an uptown walk from Leamington United Church and another walk of Clark and Nelson Streets based out of St. John’s Anglican Church.
The Bank Theatre stop included a short video and tour of the green room, costume room and upstairs VIP lounge, as well as a chance for participants to get on the stage.
PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR HOUSE IS
Curator Kristin Ives describes how migrating swifts and swallows make use of the John R. Park Homestead buildings for their spring nesting.
Attendees at the Jane’s Walk at The Bank theatre got an opportunity to take the stage and experience the lighting effects.
Michelle Fortier, manager of The Bank Theatre, takes attendees through the green room showing what the performers may be doing while they are not on stage.
Curator Kristin Ives holds a chimney swift’s nest and describes how the birds make use of the historic structure beside the lake.
Paul Forman photo
Paul Forman photo
Mark Ribble photo
Mark Ribble photo
Leamington District Chamber of Commerce 89th AGM
The Leamington District Chamber of Commerce held their 89th Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, April 23 at the Roma Club, welcoming four new board members and saying goodbye to four who have served out their terms.
The event attracted 101 participants, representing 47 voting members of the Chamber.
After updates from
Chamber General Manager Wendy Parsons and Chamber President Diane Malenfant, the day’s keynote speaker took the stage in the person of Daniel Tisch, who is the President of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
Tisch’s talk about how to deal with the current tariff situation and how Canadian businesses should band together now more than ever, rang
true with those in attendance.
Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald helped the Chamber swear in new board members Adrienne Girardin, Joe Sbrocchi, Israel Morales and Mike Chabot.
Retiring board members Chad Robinson, Tony DeSantis, Char Houle and Paul Thompson were thanked for their years of service with the Chamber.
Shorebird celebration at Hillman Marsh
May is for the birds – and birders – at Hillman Marsh Conservation Area. The Shorebird Celebration takes place from May 1-21. Volunteers from the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) will again host Shorebird Viewing events from 3 pm to 5 pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays through the celebration, with an additional date booked on Monday, May 19.
“Shorebird enthusiasts from around the globe visit Hillman in May to spot spectacular shorebirds in the mudflats at Hillman’s Shorebird Habitat,” said Kevin Money, ERCA’s Director of Conservation Services.
The shorebird habitat at Hillman Marsh is unique in North America. The managed wetland cell typically creates the perfect combination of mudflats to provide nutrition and a resting area for migrating shorebirds. The marsh is managed annually to produce the desired habitat, and water levels are reduced slowly so mud flats appear in preparation for shorebird arrival. The birds are often very close to the shoreline which makes for exceptional viewing, and a large bird blind is open for visitors to photograph and study the birds. However, this year there were some challenges associated with the managed habitat due to hydrilla, low lake levels and a damaged pump. Hydrilla is an adaptive and fast-growing invasive
aquatic plant that can alter habitat and negatively impact native species
“The low lake levels resulted in the Shorebird Habitat being left dry following winter months,” Money explained.
“While we would normally pump water in from the west cell of the wetland to create the mudflats the migrating birds rely on for feeding and resting, that cell remains closed due to invasive hydrilla.”
In addition, it was discovered that repairs were needed around the inlets that allow the wetland to be slowly drained. These necessary repairs have now been made, extended pipes have been temporarily installed, and the wetland flooding is now underway.
“While habitat management activities at the cell were somewhat delayed this year, we are confident that we will be able to create the resting and feeding conditions that the migrating shorebirds will need in time for peak migration,” Money said.
In addition to the OFO-led viewing events, renowned Shorebird expert Jean Iron will host a guided hike on May 14.
Participation is included with admission, but space is limited and pre-registration is required. Information about the Shorebird Celebration activities can be found at essexregionconservation. ca/shorebird
From left are Leamington Chamber of Commerce President Diane Malenfant, Ontario Chamber of Commerce President Daniel Tisch and Leamington Chamber of Commerce Manager Wendy Parsons. SUN photo by Mark Ribble
INDOOR YARD SALE - Fri., May 2, Sat., May 3, Sun., May 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. all 3 days, 437 Oak St. E., upper unit, Leamington. Boxed metal cars, 2 cement planters, Oriental rug, knickknacks, marble lamps, 3 cabinets, 3 mirrors, and many more items for sale. ap30
C & O Railway Station, Leamington, April 1976.
kingsvillearchives@gmail.com
Leamington’s Past courtesy of the C. Scott Holland Collection
April 30, 1991 - Here Phil Towle is seen in front of the newly remodeled Seacliff Inn. The former popular hotel turned into a motel-restaurant with a night club in its basement. Extensive renovations changed the layout of the building and a third floor was added.
April 1985 - The open house at Stevenson Containers attracted close to 500 visitors on Saturday as area people accepted the company’s invitation to come and see just what makes the plant prosper. Among the visitors were Shirley McHardy, Conservative candidate in the May 2 provincial election. She is shown here, flanked by Louise and Kim Wiper, who were supervising the hospitality table at the open house.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to decorating.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, there’s a secret that you have been holding on to and you are ready to let it go. It won’t weigh you down anymore and you can finally focus fully on the future instead of the past.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, certain ground is tough for people to travel, but you have conviction and grit to get things done. You have a history of thriving when faced with adversity, and that’s an asset.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, keep an eye open for a challenge. When you are given an opportunity that will require for fullest and best effort, embrace it as an opportunity to fulfill your potential.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, keeping things pleasant and lighthearted is a talent of yours, but this week you might need to take a new approach. Work with others and listen to suggestions.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, you often are the life of the party, always ready to find something to do and be with other people. This week you might need to slow down and enjoy some alone time.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you could be especially energized this week and feel the need to get as much done as possible. Try not to race through tasks without focusing on doing things right.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
The news that comes your way isn’t what you had hoped, Libra. Roll with the punches and embrace the challenge. Soon there will be blue skies again and everything will settle.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, you will meet up with someone you haven’t seen in a while and it will be like no time has passed whatsoever. Be prepared for a coincidental situation to bring you together.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
The universe will put you in touch with someone who is reputable and diligent, Sagittarius. This way you can both tackle what you need to get done reap the rewards of your hard work.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, a little competition never hurt anyone. Embrace an upcoming chance to see how you stack up. Give your best effort, as always.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
This is a good week to play things safe and keep your cards close to the vest, Aquarius. Consider each situation carefully before engaging.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, you are a sociable person and ready and willing to chat up others. This week you might not be up for any social interaction and prefer a few days of solitary time spent.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
APRIL 27 - Lizzo, Rapper (37)
APRIL 28 - Jay Leno, TV Host (75)
APRIL 29 - Jerry Seinfeld, Comic (71)
APRIL 30 - Gal Gadot, Actress (40)
MAY 1 - Tim McGraw, Singer (58)
MAY 2 - David Beckham, Athlete (50)
MAY 3 - Eric Church, Singer (48)
Clippings from the Wheatley Journal, May 1989 A Look at 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.
Clippings from the Wheatley Journal
Photo courtesy of the Kingsville Archives
U15 Trail Blazers win six straight to take OHF title
On the Easter weekend, the Talbot Trail Blazers U15 hockey team travelled to Collingwood to compete against the best of the best hockey tournament — the OHF Championships — a tournament which invites the winner of the OMHA, the NOHL, the GTHL and the Alliance hockey associations.
They marched through all of their opponents to be crowned Ontario Hockey Federation Champions.
Friday morning, the Blazers faced off against the Sarnia Sting, and despite falling behind 1-0, came back to win 4-2. Austin Goudie led the attack scoring four goals and Nash Fuerth potted a pair. Kevin Ondic, in net for Talbot, recorded the win.
Friday afternoon, the Blazers faced the Temiskaming Shores Puckhounds and fought hard for a 4-1 victory. Brayden Foster, Feurth, AJ Youssef and Lucas O’Neil each scored once in the win. Ondic again earned the win in goal.
Saturday morning, the Blazers’ next opponent was the Collingwood Jr Blues and they added another win to their record, winning 5-1. O’Neil, Youssef, Foster, Goudie and Larry Jeffrey each potted a goal enroute to the win. Ondic and Nicholas Chisholm, seeing some late game play, split the victory in net.
Later in the day, the Blazers won 7-2 against the Hamilton Huskies in a spirited and chippy fast paced game. Jeffrey, Goudie and Fuerth each sniped two goals with
Youssef adding a single. Ondic and Chisholm shared the goaltending duties and the win.
The Blazers finished first after round-robin play, setting up a Sunday morning semi-final with the host team, the Collingwood Jr Blues, and came out flying.
Just under five minutes into the game, Nathan Mariuz blocked a clearing pass with the puck bouncing right to Kelton McCabe, who calmly took one stride and snapped his shot blocker side to take the lead.
Three minutes later, while on the power play, Fuerth fired a shot from the point where Goudie tipped it through the five-hole and Youssef tapped it all the way across the goal line to go up by a pair.
With four to play in the first, Goudie forechecked hard and sent the puck to the front of the net where Youssef tipped it past the goalie.
Late in the second period while on the power play O’Neil sent a pass back to Fuerth at the blue line and he wired his slapshot past a screened goalie.
Nine seconds later Collingwood replied with a goal. But midway through the third Mariuz found Braylon Aflak in the slot and his shot just missed the net but caromed to Nicholas Magri at the side of the net and he punched it into the open cage. Collingwood would score late on a giveaway but the 5-2 Blazers win guaranteed a spot in the final. Ondic earned the win.
Now the only team remaining between the Blazers
and their ultimate goal of a championship was the Sarnia Sting. And they would not be denied as they came out a determined bunch, stifling the Sting with their speed and a smothering forecheck.
Just over a minute in Youssef won the draw back to Fuerth and he ripped his shot low glove to take the early lead.
Three minutes later O’Neil battled low and got the puck back to Isaiah Georges at the point and he walked in to the hash marks and fired his snapper just under the bar. Next, five minutes into the middle frame, while on the pp, Fuerth grabbed the puck and went end to end, finishing by firing his shot low blocker. 1:32 into the third while on a power play Jeffrey sent a pass to Youssef who went back to Fuerth at the point and he rifled his shot in through a screen. Three minutes later Foster and Jeffrey forechecked hard, battling to get the puck out to O’Neil in the slot and he buried his shot for Talbot’s 5th. Sarnia scored with under five to play but that’s as close as they would come as the Talbot Trail Blazers skated away with a 5-1 victory and an OHF Championship. Ondic backstopped his team to victory earning his sixth win of the tournament.
This championship capped off an amazing season for the Blazers as they finished with a 63-8-4 record and completed the very rare hockey Triple Crown: International SilverStick, OMHA and OHF Champion.
The U15 Trail Blazers defeated the Sarnia Sting on Easter weekend in Collingwood to win the Ontario Hockey Federation championship title. Team members are, kneeling in front, left to right: Braylon Aflak, Nolan Jones, Kevin Ondic, Nash Fuerth, Lucas O’Neil. Standing, left to right: Brayden Foster, Coach Dylan Impens, Charlie Ketler, Kelton McCabe, Isaiah Georges, Austin Goudie, Nichols Chisholm, Head Coach Tony Youssef, Maxim Pyne, AJ Youssef, Connor Rumble, Nicholas Magri, Nathan Mariuz, Larry Jeffrey, Trainer Tyler Dillen, Coach Zachary Dillen.
Photo submitted
LDSS Sports Report
By Emery Stapleton
Last week was one chalk full of thrilling victories at Leamington District Secondary School.
Junior doubles badminton teammates Drake Wigle and Ryan Krueger proved truly unstoppable this season. The boys competed in all three regular season tournaments hosted by Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre and went undefeated. To top it off, the pair took home gold at SWOSSAA last Thursday.
The teacher rep for the team, Mrs. Poublon, was fortunate to have three former LDSS students coach the badminton team this year: Frank Driedger, Chloe Jakob, and Aubrey Unger. Coach Jakob commented, “Coaching Drake and Ryan and watching them grow as athletes
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and individuals over the season has been a privilege. The competition at SWOSSAA was strong and really pushed them to their full potential – it’s the best we’ve ever seen them play. They rose to the challenge, supported each other every step of the way, and earned every bit of this SWOSSAA title. We couldn’t be prouder.”
Great job to the team on a great season. Next year the pair will be graduating to the senior team where they hope to be OFSAA bound!
The LDSS girls slo-pitch team began their season this past Friday with a three-game tournament at Co-An park. The Lions travelled all the way to McGregor to play their first game against a team that is 1.2km away from them.
The girls came out swinging, and heavy hitting led to a convincing
18-4 win against Cardinal Carter. Next up, Leamington took on last year’s OFSAA champions, Sandwich. The team pulled off an upset and escaped with a 7-6 victory. In the final game of the day, the girls stepped up to the plate against Belle River. Amidst heavy winds, the team whipped up an 11-4 victory. The day was highlighted by two dingers by Emily Sawatzky.
Last week, the boys baseball team played their first game against Tecumseh Vista Academy. Neither team’s bats were particularly hot, but nonetheless, the Lions came out on top with a 4-3 victory. This win was followed by another on the 23rd against Herman with a score of 22-6. On May 2, the boys will be taking on Lajeunesse at home.
The senior girls soccer team took on rivals, Erie Migration, on the 23rd. The Lions attacked the Coyotes with their claws out and clinched a 4-1 victory. The goals went to Lindsey Curchin, Jaslene Fehr and two to Emily Sawatzky (yes, it was a big week for Emily!). The brick wall of Izzy Miller in net contributed to the cohesive team effort to secure the win. The team is hoping to extend their win streak to four on the 29th against Essex. Good luck athletes!
Golden Years mini golf report
There were 74 golfers who played 36 holes of mini golf at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens on Thursday, April 24. They recorded an outstanding 116 holes in one.
Leading the way with four aces were Julia Kos, Theresa Decaluwe, Jackie Cooper and Keith Hopper, followed by Penny McMurphy, Linda Chiasson, Geoff Reid, David Tonks, Bob Springthorpe, Armand Decaluwe, Bill Edwards, Randy Nash, Laurie Hyatt, Greg Broome, Tom Bondy and Nancy Springthorpe with three aces. Two aces: Bill Gough, Lloyd Symons, Donna Bileti, Ernie Purr, Denise Munson, Jack Bostin, Bill Mayville, Ron Fick, Jane Vandentop, Lois Hudvagner, Arlene Fillmore, Jamie Arquette, Larry Hillman, Rose Scherer, Mary Binder, Bill Ward, Rosemary Heisler, Dolores Near, Bruce Cooper, Anne Bonyai and Carol Hyatt. One ace: Kathy Bechard, Al Wass, Kaz Wszol, Barb Haas, Steve Acott, Gisele Lapointe, Tony Hudvagner, Andy Orsini, Carolyn Dufour, Bill Taylor, Colleen Pearse, Ray Foster, Grant Raymond, Constance Budd, Andre Lalonde, Joanne Law, Barb Fick, Steve Bonyai, Lorraine Mousseau, Bob Tanner, Mike Mousseau and
Gail Turk.
Top score over 18 holes was Keith Hopper with 35; Lloyd Symons, Linda Chiasson, Bill Ward, Laurie Hyatt, Greg Broome and Jamie Arquette (2) 36; Bill Gough, Randy Nash, Bruce Cooper and Tom Bondy 37; Julia Kos, Theresa Decaluwe, Colleen Pearse and Keith Hopper 38; Lloyd Symons, Denise Munson, Julia Kos, Mary Binder, Theresa Decaluwe, Bill Ward, David Tonks, Shran Collins and Randy Nash 39.
Leading the way over 36 holes with 72 was Jamie Arquette, followed by Keith Hopper with 73, Lloyd Symons and Bill Ward 75, Randy Nash 76, Julia Kos and Theresa Decaluwe 77, Bill Gough and Laurie Hylton 78, and Mary Binder 79.
First place went to Team 16 (Randy Nash, Laurie Hyatt, Greg Broome, Patty Hopper) with 319. In second place was Team 7 (Julia Kos, Linda Chiasson, Jamie Arquette, Tony Hudvagner) with 323. In third was Team 10 (Theresa Decaluwe, Bill Ward, Rosemary Heisler, Colleen Pearse) with 323.
Fun, laughs and also golf will continue on Thursday, May 1 at 10:30 a.m.
Kingsville Friendly Club report
Kingsville Friendly Club president Jean Kuipers welcomed 39 members out to play cards at the Unico Centre on Tuesday, April 22.
Bridge: Kim Hamm 3550, Roy Trowell 3200, Mac Stanley 3030. Pepper: Rick Wynants 94, Willy Fittler and Dave Patterson 92, Ken Martinuik 86, Dave Snider 85. Most lone hands: Dave Patterson 8. Cribbage: Sue Girardin 1076, Nancy Cassels 1012, Bert Patrick 1005. Pepper: Carrie Schultz 256, Nancy Taylor 257, Bob Bell 254. Most peppers: Ken Bach-
meier 7.
Door prize winners were Tom Dewhurst, Bob Bell and John Bigley.
Celebrating her birthday with her card playing friends was Liz Taillieu, bringing in many snacks assisted by Dave Patterson.
There were 55 members out to play cards at the Unico Centre on Friday, April 25, welcoming back Clare Shaw, Rita and Fred Sleiman and newcomer Ruth Hathaway.
Bridge: Gillian Pinkney 3130, Carolyn Brown
2640, Mary DeGoey 2530. Euchre: Liz Taillieu 89, Cathy Dewhurst and Carrie Schultz 85, Rick Wynants 83. Most lone hands: Willy Fittler 6. Pepper: Della Dyck 265, Winnie Moore 258, Moe Hansen 243. Most peppers: Winnie Moore 5.
Door prize winners were Ruth Hathaway, Barbara Boston and Marg Fittler. Thanks to Maggie Hansen, Sue Girardin and Bob Bell for the chocolate treats and cookies to go with coffee and conversation.
Swimmers making their way to International Children’s Games
Eight young swimmers from across the region have qualified for positions on the team that will be representing Canada at the 2025 International Children’s Games (ICG), often referred to as the Junior Olympics.
This prestigious event will be held in Tallinn, Estonia, from August 3 to August 8 this year.
The team is composed of four talented girls and four equally accomplished boys, all between the ages of 13 and 15. Led by Coach Jodi Cortese, the female team includes Alee Lalande, Alivia Momotiuk, Lorena Sarkadi and Sophia Xu. The male swimmers are Nicholas Bujak, Owen Cortese, Nicola Mesic and Rhys Walda.
These young athletes
have earned their place on this elite team through dedication, discipline, and outstanding performance. They currently train with the Windsor Aquatic Club and the Windsor Essex Swim Team and have demonstrated exceptional commitment in pursuit of their Olympic dreams.
The team will travel to Europe on July 29, 2025, to begin on-site training in preparation for the games.
As part of their journey, these swimmers are now beginning their fundraising efforts, reaching out to local businesses and community members for support.
“Representing both their city and the country on the global stage is an incredible honour — one
that, for many, may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” says Coach Cortese.
“The team needs sponsors to help offset the costs for these young athlete ambassadors as they prepare for this exciting chapter in their athletic careers. Windsor Essex is an extremely generous community especially when it comes to supporting our local athletes, so we are hoping to find donors to support our swimmers. Contributions will both encourage these junior Olympians and help make their dream a reality,” added Cortese.
Reach out to coach Cortese at jodiscott84@gmail. com for more information.
Wheatley public safety event May 3
The Village Resource Centre is hosting a Wheatley Public Safety Event on Saturday, May 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 108 Talbot Road East in Wheatley. All are welcome to stop by to learn about the roles of local public safety or-
ganizations and how to be prepared for emergencies.
The drop-in event includes emergency vehicles, Play Rangers, public safety booths and a cash barbecue.
Community Calendar
FRIDAY, MAY 2 & SATURDAY, MAY 3
INDOOR YARD SALE / RUMMAGE SALEfrom 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon both days, Leamington United Church, 9 John St.
SATURDAY, MAY 3
WHEATLEY PUBLIC SAFETY EVENT WITH CHARITY BBQ - 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at The Village Resource Centre - 108 Talbot Road East, Wheatley. For more information call 226-484-1004 or visit ww.villageresourcecentre.ca. This location is wheelchair accessible.
SUNDAY, MAY 4
BLESSING OF THE BIKES 2025 at First Lutheran Church, 27 Spruce St. North, Kingsville. Service at 10:30 a.m. Outdoor Blessing at 11:30 a.m.
SUNDAY, MAY 4
COUNTY CLASSIC CHORALE CONCERT - "JUST SING", an homage to the simplicity of song, 3:00 p.m. at Harrow United Church, 45 Munger Ave. E. Admission by donation. More info at countyclassicchorale.ca
SUNDAY, MAY 4
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH OF OLINDA - Service at 10:30 a.m. with guest speaker Dr. Eleanor Maticka-Tynedale. 2953 Olinda Side Road, Ruthven, 548-3244352. All are welcome.
NOW UNTIL MAY 5
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SANDWICH FUNDRAISER. MUST PRE-ORDER by May 5th. Pickup Wednesday, May 7 from 11:00 am - 1:30 pm at St. Michael’s Church Hall, 29 Elliott St, Leamington. Options: Philly Steak or Chicken, Italian Sausage with Peppers & Onions, or Veggie – all $12. Call 519-398-9619 or 226-936-1021. Funds raised go to assist Star of the Sea Catholic Church on Pelee Island.
NOW UNTIL MAY 9 2ND KINGSVILLE SCOUTS GIFT CARD RAFFLE
to support Scouts going to Norway Jamboree. 12 prizes totalling $8,000 in local retailer gift cards. Grand prize $2,500 in gift cards. Draws are May 23 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets $5 ea or 3 for $10, available until May 9 or until sold out from any 2nd Kingsville Scout member or by emailing 2ndkingsvillescouts@gmail.com. Must be 18 years or older & a resident of Ontario.
WEDNESDAYS, MAY 14, 21 & 28
BOXING BASICS - 7:30 p.m. $10/person/ session, at The Village Resource Centre - 108 Talbot Road East, Wheatley. For more information call 226-484-1004 or visit www.villageresourcecentre.ca. This location is wheelchair accessible.
SATURDAY, MAY 17
PLANT SALE hosted by Erie Chapter #19
Order of the Eastern Star from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge, 30 Laird Ave., Essex. Plants make everything better!
SATURDAY, MAY 17
YARD SALE hosted by Parvaim Central 395 Masonic Lodge from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge, 30 Laird Ave., Essex. Something for everyone!
THURSDAY, MAY 22
KINGSVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE, GREENHOUSE VEGGIE SALE, 9:30-11:30, 1860
Division Rd. N. Fill a flat for only $20, voting in our people's choice award required. Proceeds to Kingsville Community Garden.
TUESDAY, MAY 27
KINGSVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE, BBQ, 11:30-12:30, $10 for a hamburger, salad, chips and pop, while supplies last, 1860 Division Rd. N, Proceeds to Kingsville Community Garden.
SATURDAY, MAY 31
TEAR ART BOOKMARKS from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Wheatley Branch of the CK
Public Library. Stop by to make a Tear Art Bookmark. Who knew tearing up paper and gluing it back together could be so much fun!
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: May 7 & 21, June 4 & 18. More info: email ErieShoresTM@yahoo.com, Facebook Erie Shores Toastmasters or go to ErieShores. toastmastersclubs.org.
THE VILLAGE RESOURCE CENTRE WEEKLY EVENTS - 108 Talbot Road East, Wheatley. Mondays - 7:30 p.m. - "Light The Way" Nar-Anon Family Group. Wednesday10:00
