Southpoint Sun - September 17, 2025

’80s glow theme for final Mill Street Market

By Paul Forman

Neon colours, perms and leg warmers could be seen on Leamington’s Mill Street as the Market closed the season on a perfect September 12th evening.

“Our September market was a full house as we saw a lot of interest from vendors,” said Leamington Arts Centre Director Chad Riley.

flect on the Mill Street Markets as they wind down for the summer.

“The themes, enhancements, gift giveaways and musical acts all went very well,” he said. “The giveaways we had really created a good vibe. It’s our last hoorah for the year and is our last big fundraiser for the centre.”

Although he didn’t provide specific details, Riley said that the community can expect some very unique themes at future markets on Mill Street.

Presented by the Municipality of Leamington, the Leamington Arts Centre and the Leamington Uptown Business Improvement Area, the market took the crowd back to 40 years ago with the food and craft choices from the vendors.

The musical acts brought in by The Bank Theatre’s team featured the raw powerhouse vocals of two local women as Jen Knight entertained with Mark Mailloux on the LAC Patio, while Ashley Lynn, Al Hendry and Aaron Willms had them dancing in Shotton Park. Riley was asked to re-

Riley also invites the public to the LAC for a reception that is being held on Friday, September 19 from 6-8 pm for their new exhibitions: Internal Environments - Scott Livingstone; A Covenant of Reciprocity - Jeffrey Suchak; and Beyond, Above & Below - Tony Wells. Stomping Grounds, the LAC Annual Regional Juried Exhibition 2025, will also be celebrated at the reception Friday evening.

WindsorEats made their way to the Mill Street Market for the first time this season. Pictured is co-owner of WindsorEats Adriano Ciotoli serving some aperol spritz as aerialist Kristina Cipkar of Velvet Edge Entertainment pops by.

Having just finished dinner at Cured Craft Brewing Co., Melissa Maceyovski and her daughter Claire could be seen at the Mill Street Market bringing new life to the 1980s with their fashion choices.

Vocalist Jen Knight brought an edge to the LAC En Plein Air Patio at September’s market and is pictured here with Mark Mailloux on guitar.

SUN photos by Paul Forman

Erie Shores HealthCare announces upgrades, changes

Erie Shores HealthCare (ESHC), in collaboration with Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare (HDGH), CMHA Windsor-Essex County and the Windsor-Essex Community Health Centre (weCHC), is expanding addiction and crisis mental health services to better support patients and families across our region.

In the past, a weCHC addictions worker has been onsite at Erie Shores HealthCare (ESHC) one day per week, providing vital support to patients seeking help with substance use. Starting this

month, addiction and crisis mental health services will be available five days a week at ESHC for both emergency department patients and admitted patients. The expanded services include assessment, counselling, harm reduction, and referrals to bed-based and community-based programs.

This collaborative initiative directly responds to the urgent need for accessible addiction care in Windsor-Essex, where substance-related health concerns continue to rise.

“Together, our organizations are closing critical

gaps in care, particularly the lack of transitional support following detox, and ensuring people seeking help have timely, appropriate access to services,” said a recent news release.

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Regional partners ESHC, Essex-Windsor EMS, HDGH and Windsor Regional Hospital are coordinating capacity and resource planning for the fall and winter surge period (flu season).

During the previous surge season, ESHC averaged 125% inpatient bed occupancy, with over 100

days above 135%, underscoring sustained demand pressures.

ESHC surge measures include the deployment of the Medical Mobile Support team, expanding the paediatric clinic, and establishing unconventional bed spaces to protect emergency capacity and maintain patient flow during peak volumes.

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Urology returned to Leamington in November 2024 through a partnership with local urologists, bringing specialized care back for the first time since 2017.

ESHC currently performs procedures such as hydrocele repair and ureteroscopy twice weekly in the OR — allowing urologists to visualize the urinary tract, fragment or remove kidney stones, and obtain biopsies of abnormal tissue — reducing travel for Essex County residents.

Phase 2 begins this month, with a dedicated cystoscopy clinic operating one day per week, including consultations for ED follow-ups and post-operative patients, to further strengthen conti-

nuity of care.

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In 2024, ESHC purchased 204 Talbot Street West, Leamington, adjacent to the hospital. With Barraco Physiotherapy & Wellness relocating, ESHC will move select non-clinical services into the space in January 2026.

This near-campus expansion will free up core hospital space, streamline operations, and enhance patient access, aligning physical capacity with sustained growth in demand.

New abdominal aortic aneurysm screening

The Ontario government is launching a new screening program to help protect people against life-threatening abdominal aortic aneurysms, which often have no symptoms and may go undetected until rupture.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of the aorta in the abdomen. Over time, the aneurysm can grow and could eventually burst. A burst in an aneurysm is a medical emergency because it causes serious internal bleeding and can be life-threatening.

The Ontario Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Program (OAAASP) is the first of its kind in Canada and will help save lives by promoting early detection and prevention of ruptures.

The new screening program will help more people with early diagnosis and timely treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysms, reducing the risk of sudden death and the need for emergency surgeries.

An abdominal ultrasound is safe, free, only takes a few minutes and requires no preparation in advance. All people aged 65 and older are encouraged to get checked for abdominal aortic aneurysm, as they are at the greatest risk of experiencing one.

Ontarians turning 65 will start receiving a screening letter in the mail from Ontario Health, encouraging them to discuss obtaining a requisition for an abdominal ultrasound screening test from their primary care provider. If you do not have a physician or nurse practitioner, you can find one through Health Care Connect by calling 1-888-579-6707 or by visiting the Health Care Connect website.

Barn on the Farm hosts local musicians

By Deanna Bertrand

It was a night all about gratitude for supporting local musicians, according to husband and wife team Josh and KT Pascoe, who form the group Fresh Breath, as they continued the grass roots tradition of performing live at “Barn on the Farm.”

The popular event has spanned over a decade at a farm in Ruscom and

includes local musicians, hours of entertainment, a bonfire, a food truck, raffles and more for a couple hundred music lovers.

This time the sold-out September 13 Barn on the

Farm show featured Max Marshall, Area 51 Band and Fresh Breath closing out the evening accompanied by a full band of local musicians. It was also a chance for

the couple to perform their new single, “He Said She Said”, which was released on September 8, and is now streaming on all major platforms. The song was featured this past weekend on Mix 96.7 Hit List as the Homegrown Hit. The duo brings a unique blend of ’70s classic rock with some modern influences. To check them out, go to freshbreathband.com.

Hike Metal fulfills 10-vessel contract with last Bay Class ship

By Mark Ribble

The final ship in a 10-vessel contract with the Canadian Coast Guard is getting its finishing touches at Hike Metal Products in Wheatley this week before being shipped off to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia sometime in October.

The Bay Class search and rescue vessel Mira Bay was designed and contracted by the Wheatley ship-building firm and fulfills a contract that’s been 10 years in the making.

In 2015, Hike was contracted to build six such vessels for the Coast Guard and then negotiated another four to be added to the contract, totalling 10 ships in 10 years to the tune of about $80 million.

Hike Metal President Steve Ingram was on hand for a public and media launch of the boat, which sits in the harbour

Fall Furnace Inspection

directly behind Hike’s plant in Wheatley.

“Wheatley is an amazing, caring, loving community.”

— Steve Ingram President, Hike Metal Products

Ingram was joined by members of the Coast Guard, dignitaries from Chatham-Kent and the federal government and his team, for whom he had high praise on their commitment to getting the job done.

Chatham-Kent Leamington MP Dave Epp spoke to the attendees, as well as Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff, Chatham-Kent Ward One Councillor Lauren Anderson and Coast

Guard representatives Michel Leger and Liam Pigott.

Ingram, who came on as President of Hike Metal eight years ago, talked about coming to Wheatley after a stint in the Northwest Territories.

“Wheatley is an amazing, caring, loving community,” he said. “It’s a strong place with some incredible people. I’ve made some amazing friends here. It’s great to call it home.”

Wheatley has been home to Hike Metal Products, founded in 1958 by Elmer Haikala.

“Today is a celebration of recognition of this amazing company, the Hike team, Wheatley and southwestern

Ontario industry, which I think doesn’t get as much recognition as it should,” said Ingram. “Hike probably has more commercial vessels in service in Canada and Ontario than any other builder and this remains a source of our personal pride and commitment to continue to build quality vessels in the future.”

MP Dave Epp, who brought a certificate of recognition from the Government of Canada, congratulated Ingram for the success of the contract.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I am pleased to extend my sincere my congratulations to Hike Metal on the completion of

the 10th and final vessel for the Canadian Coast Guard,” he said. “This achievement is a credit to the skill, commitment and craftsmanship of the entire Hike team and to Steve’s management.”

Mayor Darrin Canniff was joined at the podium by Councillor Lauren Anderson, who both presented Ingram with a plaque commemorating the vessel’s completion.

“I’m super proud to be here today,” said the mayor. “In 10 years, the boats that you’ve rolled out here. I suspect you’re going to be busier than you ever thought here.

Ten years — this symbolizes the resilience of Wheatley. I want to thank Steve and his whole team for the incredible work

they do here.”

“I get to see the work that is done here as I walk by this harbour almost every day,” added Anderson. “I also appreciate that the Coast Guard boats are not the only ones that are built here. Being a nurse by trade and understanding what it means to be a frontline worker, I know that you also build police boats, fire boats and also Coast Guard, so you have been at the front line at keeping our borders and our waters safe.”

The Mira Bay is a 19-metre, 75-tonne ship that will be used for rescue missions along Canada’s coast — the longest coastline in the world.

Management and staff at Hike Metal Products aboard the Mira Bay on Thursday, September 11.

Photo courtesy of Melandjer Creative Inc.

TURNING SHOVELS FOR THE FUTURE

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 324 Executive was in downtown Wheatley on Tuesday, September 9 for a ceremonial ‘first shovel’ photo at the new building site on Talbot Street West. The new Legion, being constructed by Marcovecchio Construction, is expected to be complete next year. The contractors were on site earlier Tuesday and had the trenches dug for the footing of the building. From left are Executive members Cathy Bell, Sly Meredith, Ashley Howe-Resendes, Sarah Simpson, 1st Vice President Tom Brown, Executive member Craig Howe, President Richard Whittle, Executive members Jason Bell and Laura Simpson. Absent from the photo were representatives of Marcovecchio Construction and architect Greg Amaral. SUN photo by Mark Ribble

Wednesday, September 24 • 2pm

Enjoy lively entertainment from the Oktoberfest Guys, Bavarian-inspired snacks and beverages, and capture the moment at our festive photo booth. Experience the warmth, energy, and community spirit that make life at Kingsville Retirement special.

On board the Mira Bay, keeping watch over the stern, from left, are Hike Metal President Steve Ingram, C-K Councillor Lauren Anderson, MP Dave Epp, C-K Mayor Darrin Canniff, and Canadian Coast Guard representatives Michel Leger and Liam Pigott. SUN photos by Mark Ribble

Hike Metal Products President Steve Ingram, left, is congratulated by Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff and Councillor Lauren Anderson on the 10th and final Coast Guard vessel, Mira Bay, being completed.

opinion ~ expression ~ and other musings

When the country bumpkin became the city slicker

I’ve always felt I have a unique perspective as a kid who was born into a rural family that eventually moved into town. The best of both worlds, so to speak.

Those formative years living inside Point Pelee National Park probably shaped me more than anything else. My siblings all spent their en-

tire childhoods in the park, while I became a city slicker when I was 13. I was the only one in my family that didn’t attend SS Point Pelee Public School. Well, my dad didn’t either, but my mom attended there as a child too.

Life changed drastically in 1974 when we left the old homestead in the park

and became the first family to move into the brand new Cherry Lane subdivision.

My parents, who had never owned a house until then, suddenly found themselves having to pick out paint and carpet colours for a brand new semi-detached home on Bruce Avenue. It was the first time any of us had

Cool 1932 Chevy coupe hot rod THE

Leamington resident

Shannon Dresser is posing with pride with his left foot on the ground and right foot on the running board of his 1932 Chevrolet five-window coupe while I took this photo at a car show at Point Pelee.

When this car was new, it had an overhead-valve six-cylinder engine with 194 cubic inches cranking out 60 horsepower along with an Oshawa factory list

price of $762. Today, Shannon’s car is powered by a 350 cubic inch Chev V-8 giving him all the horsepower he will ever need.

OLD CAR DETECTIVE

Bill Sherk

The very first Chevrolet was built in 1911 and named after the French race car driver Louis Chevrolet, who came to the U.S. to promote the car with his name on it. It was an immediate success and even sold over one million

cars in the U.S. in 1927, a new sales record!

The Chevrolet overhead-valve six-cylinder engine arrived in 1929, prompting Henry Ford to bring out his first V-8 engine in 1932. Ford and Chevrolet are still trying to out-sell each other today!

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heard the term ‘semi-detached’.

My Gore Hill friends’ circle had been broken that previous fall after graduating to Mill Street the summer before.

While we all rode the bus together like always, we were going to a bigger school where Grade 7 had enough kids for four classes.

So friendships branched out to kids from other “feeder” schools like MD Bennie, Queen Elizabeth and Mount Carmel.

I met new friends there but still held on to some of those Gore Hill relationships at least for that 1973-74 school year at Mill Street. Years later, some of my best lifelong friends are from those Gore Hill days.

After school got out for the summer in 1974, we moved to town where I found myself excited to be within walking distance of everything, but sad to lose that rural connection.

As a fan of Burgess Refreshments, it was cool to be able to walk there and get an order of fries with season salt on them any time I could scrounge up 85 cents.

Yes, it was 85 cents for an order of fries in those days. It was also 85 cents for a pack of cigarettes there. Don’t ask why I know this, but let’s just say that Kool cigarettes weren’t that cool after all. The package was green, which is the colour I turned when I tried to smoke them.

RIB’S RAMBLINGS

Mark Ribble

It also allowed me to do some fishing along the rocks where the marina is now located. I still have the scars on my back from slipping on those giant rocks and sliding into the water. It’s a wonder I didn’t die from E Coli or something. We’d get our bait from Paul Burgess at his bait shop, which was filled with baseball memorabilia when I was a kid.

I remember the pitching rubber from the 1968 World Series hanging on the wall, but I could be mistaken.

We were talking last week about walking to school back then, and while I never walked to Mill Street from our home on Bruce, I did walk almost the entire Grade 9 school year to LDSS.

I can’t imagine kids do-

ing that now. A few of us would start out on Bruce, walk through the farmers field where the Franklin Home is now, down Rickway and up through Seacliff Park. Then up Sherk, and along the tracks to Talbot Street and LDSS. Seemed like it took forever but it was likely about a 40-minute walk. No wonder I was so skinny. Along the way, we’d pick up other kids walking from nearby areas. Mike Vourakes, David Wood and Warren Keane come to mind. They all came off the west end of Parkdale Street and met up with us on Sherk. We never worried about danger. It wasn’t something that existed then in our minds. It was a different world and a time that I feel was the best time to grow up, from music, TV shows and other social aspects, the 1960s and ’70s produced a lot of good memories, whether you’re a town person or a country person.

The Bee Gees’ little brother

When “Shadow Dancing” by Andy Gibb went to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart for seven consecutive weeks, he became the first solo artist in the history of the Hot 100 to have his first three charted singles reach #1.

There are only two other charted acts that have since surpassed this. One was the Jackson Five who had their first four charted singles go to number one in 1990. The only other act whose first five singles all went to number one in 1990 and 1991 was Mariah Carey. The Four Seasons started with three consecutive number ones, but they already charted as the Four Lovers.

“Shadow Dancing” also extended the chart dominance of the Gibb Family and the RSO label. It was the eighth RSO number one of 1978, which was an unprecedented total that would add another digit when Frankie Valli took a Barry Gibb song, “Grease”, to the top of the charts less than two months later.

As for the Gibb takeover of the charts, “Shadow Dancing” was the num-

ber one single of 1978. As for tallying everything up, according to Billboard the year-end top 10 included the Bee Gees’ “Night Fever” at #2, “Stayin’ Alive” at #4 and “How Deep is Your Love?” at #6, as well as Andy Gibb’s “Love is Thicker Than Water” at #8.

Andy’s concert at Miami’s Jai Alai Fronton featured some surprise guests, like all three of his brothers – Barry, Maurice and Robin. It was the first concert performance with all four brothers and the first sole ‘live’ appearance of all four. Andy followed the platinum-selling “Shadow Dancing” with three top 10 singles, “An Everlasting Love” (#5 in September of 1978), “(Our Love) Don’t Throw It All Away” (#9 in December 1978) and “Desire” (#4 in March 1980).

Andy also charted with two duets: “I Can’t Help It” with Olivia Newton-John (#4 in May 1980) and a re-make of the Everly Brothers’ “All I Have to Do Is Dream” with Victoria

Principal (#51 in September 1981). If you recall, she was Pamela Barnes Ewing in the TV series Dallas and the subject of much media coverage because of her romance with Gibb. Andy made his acting debut in the Los Angeles production of the Joseph Papp revival of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance. Gibb also re-created the role of Frederic in the Canadian production.

On another note, Gibb hosted TV’s Solid Gold series from 1981 to 1982.

In January 1988, he signed with Island Records. He was working on a new album when he was admitted to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, England, on March 7 with severe stomach pains. Sadly, at much too young age, on March 10, 1988, Andy Gibb died of an inflammatory heart virus.

Shannon Dresser and his 1932 Chevy coupe hot rod – a cool car with cool owner!

Ruck 2 Remember helps veterans in need

By Mark Ribble

An initiative to help Canadian veterans experiencing or approaching homelessness made its way to Windsor and Essex County last week as the Ruck 2 Remember movement held their annual Road to Recovery walk, raising funds along the way.

In its 12-year existence, the Road to Recovery walk has raised over $1 million in support of Canadian veterans in need and covered over 2,600 kilometres.

The ruck moves around Ontario, and this year Windsor-Essex was chosen. The ruck began on Thursday, September 11 at Branch 644 in Windsor as the walkers made their way to Amherstburg Branch 157 and Kingsville Branch 188 before moving on to Comber Branch 241 and then to Chatham.

Members of the Ruck 2 Remember were hosted each night by the area Legion branches and continued their walk the next day.

At Kingsville, a packed house jammed the Branch in conjunction with a fish fry dinner, where the ruckers were greeted after their 42 km trek from Amherstburg along the shores of Lake Erie.

Branch 188 President James Raposo welcomed the ruckers along with Essex Legion President Dave Renaud and Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers. The two Legion representatives then presented Ruck 2 Remember’s Ontario founder Leno DiJulio with cheque

donations totalling over $11,000.

DiJulio, of Hamilton, was pleased with the local reaction in this area. He was joined on the walk by seven dedicated members who made their way along the route.

“It’s a beautiful area and we couldn’t be more pleased with the reception we’ve received,” he said. “We’ve helped over 1,300 veterans, which includes 150 since last year.”

Ruck 2 Remember participants were joined by Essex Legion President Dave Renaud, left, Kingsville Legion President James Raposo, right, and Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers, third from right, in a celebratory photo after the perch dinner honouring their arrival. SUN photos by Mark Ribble

Kingsville Legion President James Raposo presents Ruck 2 Remember founder Leno DiJulio with a cheque for $5,000.

Festival of Guest Nations fills Seacliff Park with celebration of cultures

The annual celebration honouring the diversity, dedication and contribution of migrant workers took place on Sunday, September 14 at Seacliff Park in Leamington.

The Festival of Guest Nations was hosted by the Migrant Worker Community Program (MWCP) in collaboration with the

Teamwork Project, Windsor Essex Local Immigration Partnership (WE LIP) and the Windsor-Essex Regional Community Safety and Well-Being Plan (WERCSWB).

The MWCP expected over 2,500 participants, including representatives from more than 20 organizations, with booths lining

the amphitheatre area at the park.

“With almost two decades of history, the Festival of Guest Nations is a long-standing initiative that honours the diversity, dedication, and invaluable contributions of migrant workers in Essex County,” said an MWCP representative. “It offers a space where migrant workers, local residents and service providers can come together to foster mutual understanding, connection and appreciation. The event featured a full program of live music, cultural performances, international cuisine and interactive booths, reinforcing the deep roots migrant workers have established

in our region.”

In addition to the celebrations, MWCP chair Martin Varela was honoured with the Ohtli Award from the Government of Mexico, through the Institute of Mexicans Abroad (IMME) in recognition of his work supporting the Mexican migrant community in Canada, particularly in Southwestern Ontario, and his strong advocacy for migrants’ rights and their empowerment.

The Ohtli Award, created in 1996, honors Mexicans who have helped Mexican communities abroad. It comprises a silver medal and rosette, and a diploma from IMME. “Ohtli” means “path” in

Nahuatl, symbolizing the act of opening roads for others.

“The Festival of Guest Nations is a beautiful reminder of the cultural richness guest workers bring to our region,” said Hilda MacDonald, Mayor of Leamington and Warden of the County of Essex. “It provides an important

opportunity to honour their hard work, the sacrifices they make to be here, and the many ways they strengthen our community and local economy. We are proud to welcome and celebrate them, and this year’s event was yet another inspiring display of culture, connection, and community spirit.”

A Hot Tacos worker prepares tortillas on a flat-top grill during the festival. SUN photos by Mark Ribble

Martin Varela and his wife Laura with the Ohtli Award he received on Sunday, September 14.

The Phenomenal Band performs as one of the many cultural entertainers to take the stage on Sunday.

Katie Brown’s Story: “LMH Has Always Been Home”

If you hear a soft melody drifting down the halls of the Leamington Mennonite Home (LMH) Retirement Residence, it’s likely Katie Brown. At 93, the lifelong teacher still hums as if she’s walking a classroom, eyes bright and smile beaming as she remembers three decades of students.

Katie’s roots run just up the road, the farm life with her husband and children, Sundays of service at LUMC and seasons measured in harvests and hymns. When a hospital stay made it clear she couldn’t return to the farm, her answer came easily: “That’s fine,” she told her doctor. “I’ll go to the Leamington Mennonite Home.”

Katie, to families who trust us, and to the staff and volunteers whose everyday kindness keeps this place warm and welcoming.

LMH had long been her family’s second home. Her father lived here for six years; her mother for twenty-three.

Choosing LMH felt less like a move and more like coming back to where love already lived.

and led me all along, that’s why my life has been so full.”

Ask her what matters most, and she’ll point to people. “The staff are wonderful. They’ve become my friends.” Then she’ll hum a few bars and carry on down the hall, one note in LMH’s sixty-year song—with more verses to come.

This year, LMH celebrates 60 years of care—six decades of the community caring for our community, guided by our vision of Residents First. The milestone belongs to residents like

The dual campus has meant everything: Katie in Retirement, her husband cared for in Long-Term Care—close enough for daily visits, far enough that each receives the right support. “I feel so well taken care of here,” Katie says. “It’s quiet and peaceful. There’s always an activity if I want it and my newspaper arrives at my door every morning.” Health challenges have come and gone, but her faith steadies her. “God was in charge

A Diamond Evening

Diamond Evening

NO VEMBER 8 TH , 2025

NO VEMBER 8 TH ,

MASTR

MASTR ONARDI ESTATE WINER Y 1193 RO AD 3 EAST, KINGS VILLE

DOORS OPEN AT 5:00P M

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Katie Brown

Anna Dorsch

Anna Dorsch, 97 years, passed away on Monday, September 8, 2025 at Venvi Leamington Retirement Residence.

Beloved wife of the late Arie (1993). Dear friend of Joyce Loeffen (Henry) and Trina Hoekstra. Visiting was at the Faith Reformed Church, Seacliff Drive, on Friday, September 12, 2025 from 10 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service to celebrate Anna’s life at 11 a.m. Interment at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to Faith Reformed Church or the Canadian Cancer Society. Friend may share memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Olga Stasso

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Olga Stasso, who peacefully left us in her later years after a life filled with love, family and tradition.

Born May 17, 1924 and passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at the age of 101. Beloved wife to and predeceased by her husband John (2004), mother to Gerald (predeceased 2024), Janet (Ron) Brinacombe, Dan (Kathy) Stasso, Barb (Paul) Leblanc and Terry (Joann) Stasso, as well as nine grandchildren, ten greatgrandchildren (predeceased by Ryan Mummery, 2005), five great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces, and nephews. Survived by her sister Ethel Petrynko (Winnipeg), and predeceased by six sisters and three brothers.

Born in Saskatchewan, Olga later moved to Mersea Township, better known as “The Marsh”, where she and her beloved husband John raised their five children. Together, they built a home that would become the heart of countless memories – a place where the pond froze into a hockey rink, parties were always lively and everyone felt welcome.

Many will fondly remember the cherished Christmas Eves at the Stasso residence where Olga lovingly prepared a feast of traditional Ukrainian dishes. No one was left out – friends, neighbours and anyone needing a place to belong were welcomed as family. These gatherings were filled with laughter, food, drinks, Christmas carols, Santa sightings and, of course, a spirited game of poker.

Sundays were sacred in the Stasso home – not for rest, but for Olga’s home cooked Sunday dinners, always served with love.

While raising her children, Olga worked tirelessly on the family farm and later served as a cook at the Leamington Mennonite Home, where she would eventually reside in her later years, surrounded by the very community she once nourished.

Olga was deeply involved in the lives of her grandchildren. She passed on practical skills such as baking, cooking, canning, sewing and knitting, and even more invaluable lessons about love, laughter and living fully. Whether it was a competitive game of Pinnacle or Pay Me, a long chat over tea, a shopping trip or a night at Bingo, time with Grandma was always special. Sleepovers at her house meant pancakes on the griddle in the morning and memories that would last a lifetime.

Olga was a beautiful blend of tradition and modern spirit – teaching her grandchildren to dance the Polka while letting them teach her to Disco. She embraced every moment and gave her heart fully to those around her. One of the last videos we have of Olga shows her proudly listing off all the dishes and desserts she had prepared for her family – a simple but profound symbol of her love. At the end of the video, she shared a final wish: “Love each other, take care of each other – that’s all I ask.”

We will carry her memory, her wisdom and her legacy in our hearts forever.

Proof of obituary to run

Kingsville Horticultural Society report

By Annette Cooper

As we move toward the end of summer, a hot one for sure, let’s pause with our iced lemonade, strolling through our gardens to celebrate the beauty we have tended. Gardening is a huge essential for our health, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Stop, take time to look each day for surprises in your garden, like the whimsical, drunken flight of a Monarch or Swallowtail, unfolding of a Swamp Mallow or random flight

September 17, 2025

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of a bumble bee. Listen to the sounds of water, serenade of birds before dawn, or whisper of wind through the fall leaves. Taste the sweetest raspberry, or grape, just because you can. Bend over to smell the scent of a rose, or alyssum. With bare feet, spray them with cold water as you touch the grass with your toes. Enjoy the change of season.

The Kingsville Horticultural Society will no longer be meeting at Unico. Meetings will be the third

Proof of obituary to run

September 17, 2025

Monday, January to May and September to November. The new location is Lions Community Hall, 21 Mill St. W., behind the Epworth United Church parking lot.

The October 20 guest speaker will be Billy Ross from Ross Nurserymen (Chatham), who comes with lots of experience from a seven-generation family run business. His presentation will be on “Soil for Success”. You won’t want to miss this meeting.

District 11 AGM is in Belle River on October 25 from 9:00 to 4:00. Save the date.

Thanks to all the garden care volunteers who planted and tended the gardens this summer. The heat sure didn’t keep them away!

also at the Vintage Tea location. There were 10 gardens on the tour with Artists In Residence (AIR) in each garden, painting or reading poetry. Homeowners and Garden Marshals welcomed guests to each garden. There were over 300 on the garden tour and 200 at the tea. Thanks to all who made this great event such a success. Volunteers are needed for Kingsville Horticultural Society. We are a growing family of gardeners, building friendship through volunteering together. We have great opportunities to offer. The KHS AGM is in November.

John Huy

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John Huy was born in Klek, Yugoslavia, on October 10, 1931. His humble upbringing in a poor, rural and chaotic part of the world instilled in him a drive to make things better. He did so for everyone he met and all those whom he would come to love.

His late wife Anne of 57years (2009) was the true light and gift to his life, his beloved only daughter Teresa (1985) and his two surviving sons, Howard and John, were what was always most important to him. He also deeply appreciated the companionship of Vlasta Hudec. He passed so peacefully, surrounded by his family, at home on Thursday, September 11, 2025. He praised his daughters-in-law Zora and Cynthia, who blessed him with seven grandchildren and their spouses: Addison and Yongyi, Tess and Ara, Serena and Renee and Peter, Elena, Annamarie and Tomas. He was so very proud of each and every one of them. His excitement only grew when his three great-children were born in the past three years, Leila, Miya and Niko. John was the loving brother to his late sisters, Katie Brady and Marian Kos, and the only son of his parents John and Ann.

In his almost 94 years, John Huy accomplished more than he could ever have imagined coming to this country in 1948. Through his hard physical work, his relentless drive to provide a better life for his family and his keen insight into farming and particularly the greenhouse business, he transformed an industry. His contribution to agriculture has been recognized nationally and internationally.

We have always been so very proud of him for so many reasons. He taught by example, providing a template work ethic that was hard to match. He loved us all fiercely, no doubt even at times when we did not deserve it. Above all, it was family that mattered the most. In his last words, he told us this very thing and that we need to stay together. For the boy who had to flee a war-torn part of the world and see so many families torn apart, his last wish was for us to stay together.

He liked the song by Frank Sinatra “I Did It My Way”. He certainly did. An example of what can be achieved when you work hard, learn constantly and love deeply. Opa, we will miss you more than you know. We will strive to live out your legacy in a manner that would have made you proud. We will see each other again. We love you.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Saturday September 13, 2025 from 9-11 a.m. Services was at Reid Funeral Home at 12 p.m., followed by lunch.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Friends may send condolences at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

The Vintage Garden Tour & Tea 2025, a collaboration between Kingsville Horticultural Society and Arts Society of Kingsville, was a smashing success! There were over 150 volunteers. The Historical Society of Kingsville, and Master Gardeners were

Proof of obituary to run September 17, 2025 Southpoint Sun

$200 plus $26 HST = $226

If you are interested in being on the Board or a Committee Chair or member, send your name and position of interest to the executive team, Katie, Alan and myself. If you want to nominate someone for the board, be sure to check with them before putting their name forward. Again, please send those names to the present Board Executive.

Roaring to chat Kingsville Lions Club report

Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca Thank you.

By Joan Cope

Wanted! Your used eyeglasses of all kinds, including prescription lenses, “readers”, sunglasses, even glasses that may be broken.

All will be collected by Kingsville Lions Club and sent to the Canadian Lions Eyeglass Recycling Centre in Alberta to be sorted and sent to countries most in need.

The following is a list of the current locations of Lions Eyeglass Collection boxes, where you can stop in to drop off your used glasses.

In Kingsville: Eyes Optometry at 30 Main St E.; Kingsville Eye Care at Unit 2, 375 Main St. E.; Kingsville Optometry at 59 Main St E.; Southgate Retirement Home at 38 Park St.; Venvi Retirement Home at 240 Main St. E.; Kendrick Funeral Home at 91 Division St. S.; and Kingsville Community Centre at 1860 Division Rd. N.

In Leamington: Walmart Optics at 304 Erie St. S.

In Harrow: Harrow Eye Care at 41 Centre St. W. and King St. Optometry at 23 King St. W.

Your donation of used eyeglasses will help someone be able to see, perhaps for the very first time in their life. And for others, the gift of being able to see clearly.

Carrousel of the Nations wins Top Festival Award

The Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County (MCC) has announced that the 50th Anniversary of Carrousel of the Nations has been named Top Festival & Event in Ontario for 2025 by Attractions Ontario.

This recognition comes through the 10th Annual Ontario’s Choice Awards, where the public once again voted Carrousel of the Nations as the province’s top festival for the third consecutive year.

The 2025 Carrousel of the Nations marked its milestone 50th year with celebrations across Windsor, Leamington, Kingsville, Harrow and Amherstburg June 13–15 and June 20–22. Visitors experienced the rich cultural heritage of the region through food, music, dance, and storytelling.

Calendar Girls ready to ‘take off’ on Bank Theatre stage

By Mark Ribble

Tech week is in full swing at The Bank Theatre as cast and crew prepare for opening weekend of their newest production, Calendar Girls.

Renata Solski is at the helm of this poignant, funny and meaningful story that revolves around a group of friends who come together to honour the fallen husband of one of their own.

The play is based on the 2003 British movie starring Helen Mirren as Chris Harper, who gets the idea for her group of church friends to do a nude calendar to raise money for a new settee at the local hospital.

Between the laughter and the tears, this group of formidable females manages to take the world by storm with their idea, garnering national attention along the way.

Director Solski has created a unique and visually appealing set with the help of a plethora of

volunteers at the theatre, while the cast of 12 has been hard at work perfecting their craft for an entertaining run.

Laurie Niefer stars as Annie, whose husband John has leukemia. When John passes away, Annie’s five friends gather to support her, while her best friend Chris, played by Monica Gustafson, comes up with the bold idea for the calendar.

Cindy Pastorius as Cora, Emma Truswell as Celia, Cindy Lee Kok as Jessie and newcomer Dodie Wilson as Ruth, round out the fearsome sixsome who form the nucleus of this cast.

These six ladies have found the perfect chemistry, which allows the audience to buy into the story and join them on their journey through all of their challenges and triumph.

They are supported by Laura Callingham, Natalie Jenking and Sue Ross, along with three

male cast members, John Solski, Mike Ross and Corey Robertson.

Roberston serves double duty as the nervous, nerdy Lawrence the photographer, creating comedy and chaos on the stage during the photo shoots. He then dons the persona of Liam, a seedy TV producer, who brings the laughs once again later in the show.

Vee Papadimos and John Moran provide sound and lighting that are second-to-none and Roger Hewett’s superb musical score will get your attention and pull you in from the get-go.

Calendar Girls opens Friday, September 19 at The Bank Theatre in uptown Leamington and promises to bring laughter, tears and an endearing message to all who attend.

Doors open at 7 pm for a 7:30 show on opening night and follow with 7:30 pm shows on September 20, 26 and 27. Additional matinees are at 2 pm on Sunday, September 21 and 28.

For tickets, visit banktheatre.com or you can stop in at the box office Thursday through Saturday from 11 am to 1 pm.

www.essexfreepress.com | issuu.com/essexfreepress 16 Centre St., Essex | P.O. Box 115, Essex, ON N8M

Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 9am-2pm, Fri. 9am-1pm,

On a side note, Calendar Girls calendars are on sale as well, which depicts various retailers and businesses in this area and honours 12 locals who have battled or are battling cancer.

Tractors: Case IH MX200 Magnum Tractor, Leyland 255 Tractor 3 cyl diesel perkins, Allis Chalmers WD45 Tractor JD 51or52 Model M tractor, MF 1085 Tractor, 2019 Mahindra compact tractor. Farm Machinery: Massey 520 Disc, Landoll 3PH ripper, Kongskilde PGB Cultivator, Case IH corn planter, Walinga Grain Vac, JD 400 3PH rotary hoe, Kongskilde 300 5 furrow plow, JD Turbo 6620 Combine, Rowgator 854 Sprayer, Great Plains 2010 Grain Drill, F750 Gregson Sprayer, Kongskilde Triple K cultivator, JD MOCO 946 Haybine, 2 row wheel hay rake , Double Disc Ditcher, NEW Case IH 1020 Grainhead, Case Int 5400 Drill w/Yetter coulter cart, NH1003 Stackliner bale wagon, appr 1100Gal water wagon Int 3PH Chisel plow, Appr 20' Cultivator, appr 24' Crowfoot packer, Int 3900 Flex wing disc harrow, Case IH consertil/ripper, Assorted Gravity wagons, Int 1020 grain head on cart, JD 913 3PH Subsoiler/Ripper, Assorted augers, Assorted Hardi sprayers, JD 4 furow plow, Versatile 8"PTO auger, Int Vibra Shank 4550 cultivator, 3412 Rotary hoe, Antique 3 furrow plow 6 row crop cultivator, Overum Triple Ok 4 Furrow Plow, Salford 9705 Wing plow, assorted scraper blades, Overum Kongskilde 6 furrow plow, assorted Bale elevators, assorted V-Ditchers, Overum 3 furrow competition plow, 9 shank disc ripper w/finger harrows and rolling baskets, Assorted Choppers, Assorted Bale Spears, JD 218 Grain head w/cart, Kearney 12 row Planter frame, Int Vibrashank cultivator, Case IH 56 4 row planter, Int 480 Disc appr 22', Kongskilde, 6 row crop cult, Case IH 843 Corn Head, Case IH 820 Grain head, and more! Misc items: Livestock gates, panels, feeders, Assorted tools, Asst Milk Cans, Asst backpack sprayers, Asst Gas cans, Asst garden tools, Speedrooter electric eel, Asst Snowblowers, Asst fert/seed spreaders, Various PTO shafts, cylinders, Asst auger drive motors, Asst motors, Misc farm equipment parts, asst window air conditioners, Asst implement rims Easy clean 4000 Hot water pressure washer, Lincoln Welder AC/DC, Backrack, Kobalt truck box, Asst pallet forks, Craftsman toolbox, Blackjack 20 ton press, Asst water tanks, Antique fire extinguisher, 2- 5 ton LIFT-RITE pallet lift, Champion Generator 196cc, Kubota Zero turn Lawnmower, Fiori Tandem Bicycle, Basketball net, patio table & chairs, Hyd skidsteer trencher, HLA rock fork, Snap-on Hydraulic lift, and so much more! Location: Malden Valley Farms-Unholzer Farm 1596

Laurie Niefer, left, as Annie and John Solski (as John) provide one of the more poignant moments in Calendar Girls.

Cindy Lee Kok as Jessie, sitting, readies for her photo shoot, as her friends Annie (Laurie Niefer), Cora (Cindy Pastorius), Celia (Emma Truswell) and Chris (Monica Gustafson) help cover her up. Photographer Lawrence (Corey Robertson) is loving his job.

The ladies get a little rambunctious, much to the chagrin of their church leader Marie, played by Laura Callingham, right. SUN photos by Mark Ribble

$34,411 raised at Terry Fox Run in Kingsville

By Paul Forman

Over 100 walkers and runners came together on a gorgeous September 14th morning to “Finish It” as they brought in $34,411 for cancer research for the annual Kingsville Terry Fox Run. Choosing either a 2K route or a 5K route, the participants shattered the local run’s goal of raising $22,000. Participants and volunteers totalled 183.

Melo LLP took over as race organizers for this year’s Kingsville run and Renee Bruce of Melo was clearly thrilled with the work put in by the participants. “This number is about hope and making progress towards Terry’s goal,” said Bruce. “Today proves how powerful we can be together.”

Kingsville’s Marilyn Farnworth, run organizer for the past eight years and the top fundraiser this year, was one of the speakers that spoke just prior to this year’s run.

“This is my 45th year of participating in the Terry Fox Run and I still get emotional thinking of Terry and his legacy,” she said. “He is truly a Canadian icon and has shown the world that one person

can make a difference. I am honoured to be part of Terry’s team. Kings-

ville is a very giving and supporting community and I know that together

we will continue to make Terry proud and finish it for him.”

Pictured are two ladies who have been crucial to the success of past and present Terry Fox Runs in Kingsville. On the left is this year’s Chair of the race’s organizing committee, Renee Bruce. On the right is past chair of the event, Marilyn Farnworth.

The Lake Erie North Stars U15 hockey team was out in full force as they served as marshals along the two Terry Fox Run routes.

Team Rowland and friends participating in the Terry Fox Run in loving support of family members. SUN photos by Paul Forman

Participants make their way down Division Street.

2025 BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Business Excellence Awards pack the Roma Club

By Mark Ribble

It was a packed house at the 31st annual Leamington District Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards on Wednesday, September 10.

The Roma Club of Leamington hosted the event with the area’s business community enjoying the evening as local businesses and individuals were awarded for excellence in what they do.

Elvis and Dawn entertained the crowd before dinner and were joined by their daughter Iris, who at eight years old

did a rousing rendition of O Canada prior to the awards ceremony. The theme of the night was Canada Eh, and Libro Credit Union was the evening’s event sponsor.

Chamber Manager Wendy Parsons greeted the audience and spoke to the importance of seeking out Canadian products in the current political climate. She then turned the mic over to emcee Jay Marchillo from Blackburn Radio, who in turn introduced each award sponsor.

Each award had been narrowed down to three

The team here at Leamington Chrysler would like to thank the BEA Committee for awarding us with the Small Business Award for 10-50 Employees

It is our pleasure to serve the people of Leamington and surrounding area and we are thankful for this honour.

or four finalists and announced at a previous function.

As always, two surprise recipients were awarded on the spot without any other nominees. The Libro Director’s Choice Award went to Caldwell First Nation, represented by Chief Nikki van Oirschot, who was caught totally off-guard with the award and gave an emotional acceptance speech from the heart.

The Alf Bennie Award was announced at the end of the evening, with local businessman and leader George Bergen the recip-

ient. George came to the stage and talked about helping each other and having hope for a great future if we all work together.

This year’s recipients are:

• Small Business Excellence 1-9: 876 Barbershop. Sponsored by Invest WindsorEssex.

• Small Business Excellence 10-50: Leamington Chrysler. Sponsored by Hydro One.

• Business Excellence

50+: South Essex Fabricating. Sponsored by WFCU Credit Union.

SEE PAGE 14

Val Mascaro, left, and Tim Vida, right, partners at Leamington Chrysler, accept the Small Business Excellence 10-50 employees award from Musaab Choudry, representative of Hydro One.

Dale Wallace, left, proprietor of 876 Barbershop, accepts the Small Business Excellence Award 1-9 employees from Sabrina DeMarco of Invest WindsorEssex.

Guy Cameron, left, representing Mucci Farms, accepts the Grow South Essex Award from sponsor BMO, represented by Chris Ferreira.

The Excellence in Food Service award was presented to Mettawas Station, represented by Anthony Del Brocco, middle, and Janet Del Brocco, right, presented by Hira Chaudhary of TD Canada Trust.

Jonathan Dick, left, and Peter Quiring, middle, of South Essex Fabricating, accept the Business Excellence 50+ employees award from Michael Scherer of WFCU, right.

Rui Arruda, left, and Paul Medeiros, right, of Dream BNB Hospitality, accept the Hospitality and Tourism Award from Andrew Laforet of Point Pelee National Park.

continued from Page 13

• Grow South Essex: Mucci Farms. Sponsored by BMO Bank of Montreal.

• Excellence in Food Service: Mettawas Station. Sponsored by TD Canada Trust.

• Hospitality & Tourism: Dream BNB Hospitality Inc. Sponsored by Point Pelee National Park.

• Customer Service: Murray Insurance & Financial Services. Sponsored by CIBC Seabrook Financial Group

• Innovation: Koppert Canada Ltd. Sponsored by Municipality of Leamington.

• Environmental, Social & Governance Impact: Envest Corp/Seacliff Energy. Sponsored by Thomson Guardian Pharmacy.

• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: Roma Club of Leamington. Sponsored by Community Living Essex County.

• Collaboration Is Key: South Essex Community

Council. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Leamington.

• Innovate Her: Kristin Kennedy - Erie Shores HealthCare. Sponsored

by Insight Advantage.

• Young Professional of the Year: Cody Kraus

- Century 21 Local Home Team. Sponsored by Cogeco.

• Positive Professionals: Dr. Abby JakobEYES. Sponsored by RBC Royal Bank.

• Libro Director’s Choice: Caldwell First

Nation. Sponsored by Libro Credit Union.

• Alf Bennie Award: George Bergen. Sponsored by Blackburn Media.

Roger Tiessen, left, and Dennis Dick, right, accept the Environmental, Social and Governance Impact Award from Char Houle of the Business Excellence Committee, on behalf of sponsor Thomson Guardian Drugs. Roger and Dennis are the partnership in charge of Envest Corp/Seacliff Energy.

Rick Mastronardi, President of the Roma Club, middle, accepts the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award from Community Living Essex County representatives Janell Violet, left, and Greta Kauffman.

Ian Murray, centre, of Murray Insurance and Financial Services, accepts the Customer Service Award from CIBC Seabrook Financial Group representatives Jon Seabrook, left, and Joe Oswald, right.

Joseph Battaglia of Koppert Canada Limited, left, accepts the Innovation Award from Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald.

Leamington District Chamber of Commerce Manager Wendy Parsons addresses the crowd at the 31st annual Business Excellence Awards.

Cody Kraus

Helen and George Bergen pose with Blackburn Media’s Cordell Green, right. George Bergen is this year’s recipient of the Alf Bennie Award, chosen for his hard work and dedicaton in helping the community.

South Essex Community Council Executive Director Carolyn Warkentin accepts the Collaboration is Key Award from Rotary Club Leamington President Scott Collier.

Insight Advantage’s Renee Daudlin-Iacobelli, left, presents the Innovate Her Award to Kristin Kennedy, President and CEO of Erie Shores HealthCare.

Kody Kraus, left, accepts the Young Professional of the Year Award from Cliff Danby, representing Cogeco Your TV.

Dr. Abby Jakob, left, accepts the Positive Professional Award from Andrea Schuld of RBC Royal Bank.

Caldwell First Nation Chief Nikki van Oirschot, left, accepts the Libro Director’s Choice Award from Libro Leamington Manager Paul Thompson.

Wheatley Legion News

Next week is Legion Week, September 21 to 27 and Wheatley Legion has some events planned to mark the occasion.

There will be an evening of Euchre starting at 6 p.m. at Joe’s Bar on September 24. On September 25 the Legion will host an Appreciation Night at Talbot Trail Golf Course from 6-9 p.m. and everyone is welcome. A Waddies Tournament is planned for September 26 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Two Creeks Conservation Area. To wrap up Legion Week, a Double Meat Draw will be held on September 27 from 3-5 p.m. at Joe’s Bar. For more information, call Sarah at 519324-6805. All are welcome to attend these events.

Congrats to Howard’s Huddle, who once again

prevailed as champions at the September 11 Trivia Night. Way to go, guys!

The next Trivia Night is Thursday, October 23 at 7 p.m. Anyone interested in playing can contact Sarah via Wheatley Legion Br. 324 Facebook.

There will be a Zone A2 Senior Darts Tournament (55+) at Belle River Legion on Saturday, October 25. Members in good standing are eligible to play. Contact Jim McClellan 519-825-4816 to enter or for more information.

The Early Bird Campaign is underway until November 30. There will be three draws for a chance to have your 2026 dues refunded. Dues are $45 and can be paid online at legion.ca, by cheque mailed to Box 729, Wheatley, ON N0P 2P0, or you

can reach out to Laura to make arrangements. Laura will also be at the golf course on Legion Appreciation Night September 25 if you want to pay your dues in person.

Any groups or individuals who will be laying a wreath this Remembrance Day in Wheatley or Leamington are asked to contact Wheatley Legion Poppy Chair Tom Brown at 519-890-6041 by Friday, October 17. Any high school students looking to earn community service hours by assisting with the Poppy Campaign can also call Tom to ask about volunteering.

There were 10 players out for Friday Night Fun Darts on September 12. Recording six wins were Julie Reid, Jim McClellan and Tim Butt. Five wins: Bonnie Evoy and Dan Bachmeier. Two wins: Velma Hope, Larry Evoy and Gord Crook. One win: Jean Teylouni and Ben Baltzer. There were no lady doublers. Next Fun Darts Night is Friday, September 19 at Kingsville Legion. Signup is at 7 p.m. and play begins at 7:15.

Concert coming to LUMC Sept. 19

On September 19, the students of La Amistad Christian School in Paraguay will bring the vibrant sights and sounds of their culture to Leamington for a free evening concert of music, dance and inspiring testimonies at Leamington United Mennonite Church, 78 Oak Street East.

The school’s story begins in the slums outside Asunción, Paraguay, where Pastor Alfred and his wife ran a small daycare for local children.

One night, Pastor Alfred was attacked and nearly stabbed to death. He recognized his assailants – young men who had once attended the daycare.

“That’s when I re-

alized,” recalls Pastor Alfred, “a daycare isn’t enough. These children needed long-term education, Christian discipleship, and hope for a different future.”

Moved by this vision, donors from across Canada rallied to help, including many from Leamington.

Their generosity built La Amistad Christian School, which has since grown into one of the top-performing schools in the country. For over a decade, the school has been providing quality education, spiritual guidance, and a safe place for hundreds of children to thrive.

“This tour is more than just a concert,” says Rafael Duerksen, Executive Director of Generation Rising. “It’s a celebration of what God has done through the partnership between Canadian donors and the people of Paraguay, and an opportunity for these students to express their gratitude in person.”

The Leamington concert is free and open to the public and starts at 7 pm.

Now, after a year of preparation, the students are touring Canada to say thank you. The tour features traditional Paraguayan music played on authentic instruments, lively cultural dances, and personal stories of how God has been faithful in their lives.

PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR HOUSE IS

La Amistad Christian School students are touring Canada.

Plenty to do at Cottam Fall Fair and Horse Festival

By Mark Ribble

with files from Doug Biekx

Hundreds of local families made their way to Ridgeview Park in Cottam on Sunday, September 14 for the 61st annual Cottam Fall Fair and Horse Festival, hosted by the Rotary Club of Cottam.

With a park full of family-oriented activities, food, vendors, entertainment and horses, the atmosphere took on the vibe of a good old fashioned rural celebration.

And if that wasn’t action enough, the stars of Border City Wrestling also made their way to Cottam to put on a high-flying, body slamming show of their own.

Organizers were thrilled with the turnout on a sunny fall day, as the celebration kicked off with the Rotary Club’s popular pancake breakfast, followed by the opening of vendors, bouncy castles, entertainment and a horse demonstration by Sarah Parks Horsemanship.

What followed was the annual parade, a chili cook-off, donut eating contest and loads of fun for kids and adults alike.

The Town of Kingsville was also on hand to officially open the new Gosfield Communications Community Centre in Ridgeview Park as part of the festivities.

Morgan Clark tries his hand at milking the mechanical cow brought in by the Essex-Kent Milk Producers and Dairy Farmers of Ontario.

The equine participants were among the most popular in the annual parade.

Jon Brett brought his children’s show to the event and entertained the younger set.

Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers walked the parade route and then helped open the new Community Centre.

The Pancake Breakfast was popular with everyone on Sunday morning.

Border City Wrestling’s Keegan D gets some encouragement from young fans in the audience, as referee William Dibbley applies the count.

The 2nd Cottam Scouts were busy with their recruitment booth on Sunday. Here, Scouts Atlas Chortos, Tyson Spitse and Andrew Baxter let the ball fly on the giant slingshot, which was popular among the younger generation.

Gore Hill P.S. marks Terry Fox Week

Gore Hill Public School kicked off its Terry Fox Fundraising Week with a very special assembly. In preparation for their school-wide Terry Fox Event on Thursday, September 18, students gathered in the gym to reflect on Terry’s incredible legacy of courage and determination.

After the assembly concluded, Mr. Betterley’s class participated in a meaningful moment at the flagpole, where they

raised the Childhood Cancer Awareness flag together. This flag will fly proudly at the school for the week as a symbol of strength, hope and solidarity with the children and families affected by pediatric cancer.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and together the Gators stand united in raising awareness and supporting this important cause.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

We meet on the last Monday of the month unless otherwise noted. Meetings are held at the Discovery Main Office in Kingsville from 6:30-8:00 pm. For more information & to become a member of our Volunteer Board of Directors, please contact the Executive Director, Karen Loeppgy, by phone: 519-733-8202 or by email: Director@discovery-childcare.ca

AGM MEETING

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24 @ 6:30 PM

Waterfront upgrades continue in Leamington

The Municipality of Leamington recently shared updates on enhancements to its waterfront, including the extension and twinning of the Seacliff Beach boardwalk, the installation of a new landmark archway sign, and the construction of the Waterfront Market Plaza. The enhancements are part of the Leamington Waterfront Destination Master Plan, advancing the municipality’s vision of a vibrant, accessible waterfront destination that welcomes residents and attracts visitors.

Boardwalk Extension Building on the success

of the original 12-footwide boardwalk extension completed in 2023 that linked Seacliff Park to the pedestrian pier, Leamington has expanded its popular waterfront trail system.

To improve safety and encourage active transportation, a second, parallel boardwalk has been constructed exclusively for pedestrians. The existing boardwalk has been converted into a dedicated two-lane cycling path, with widened corners to provide safer turning radii.

New Landmark Archway Sign

A newly installed double archway sign now frames the boardwalk entrance, welcoming visitors to Seacliff Beach

and Leamington’s waterfront. The archway is designed to serve as a recognizable landmark and a lasting symbol of one of the community’s most treasured destinations.

Waterfront Market Plaza Project

Work on the Waterfront Market Plaza and Parking Lot Expansion Project at the foot of Erie Street South is underway.

Once complete, the Market Plaza will provide a dynamic, yearround space for tourism, community events, and recreation, further cementing Leamington’s waterfront as a hub of activity and connection.

Key features of this project include a parking lot expansion, accessible

playground, vendor and market area, a multi-use stage, washroom facilities, a food plaza, food truck area, boulevard enhancements and a public art sculpture.

“Leamington’s waterfront is one of our community’s greatest assets, and these enhancements are part of our long-term vision to make it a destination where people want to gather, celebrate and connect,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “From the expanded boardwalk and landmark archway to the Market Plaza Project, we are building spaces that reflect our pride in Leamington and create opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy for years to come.”

From left, Gore Hill Public School staff members Ashton Beaudoin, Kayla Poulin, Jeff Betterley and parent volunteer Katie Friesen stand alongside students from Mr. Betterley’s JKSK class and student Rogue Wolf, while raising the Childhood Cancer Awareness Flag at the school on Friday, September 12.

Photo submitted

127 DANFORTH, LEAMINGTON

$524,700

1869 UNION AVE, RUTHVEN

bedrooms, 2 baths, updated 2024 kitchen, fenced yard, family & dining rooms, workshop, laundry, and EV charger—movein ready on a spacious 60’ x 135’ lot! KEVIN BABKIRK 519-818-4432

WILL MEET 7:00 pm at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Join

horticultural

call Jo-Anne Smith 519-322-8809.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

KINGSVILLE BLOCK PARTY - 5:00 - 10:00 pm - Glow Party with DJ V’Amour and aerial performance by 519 Aerial, King St. & Chestnut St.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

LITTLE TOMATO CHILDREN'S THEATRE AUDITIONS for Dare to Dream Jr. (a Disney musical review) at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 311 Sherk St., Leamington. 9:00 am - ages 6-9. 10:30 am - ages 10-12. 1:00 pm - ages 13-18. Please arrive 10 minutes before time slot. Call-backs may be requested later in the day. More info at http://facebook. com/LittleTomatoChildrensTheatre

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

BR. #188 KINGSVILLE LEGION SEPTEMBER DANCE - 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Dance with DJ Billy K. Theme Scarecrow Hat Decorating. Prizes for best male and female hats. Kitchen open, cash bar. 145, Division Rd. South, Kingsville.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

AUTUMN FEST BAZAAR 9:00 am - 2:00 pm at Visitation Church Parish Hall, 5407 Comber Side Rd, Comber. Featuring homemade baked goods, 20+ vendors with handmade crafts, raffles with cash prizes, grocery gift cards and a penny sale raffle (over 75 items) drawn later that day. Lunch available and free coffee/tea all day. Hourly guest draws just for attending!

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

GOOD NEIGHBOUR DINNER/DANCE with Rib Dinner, 272 St Paul Street, Belle River. Doors open 2:00 p.m., dinner 5:30. Music by Crystal St. Denis. $17 in advance, $20 at the door. E-transfers accepted goodneighbour@cogeco.net or call 519-728-2138.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

ORANGE SHIRT WALK, 12:00 pm at Kingsville Recreation Complex, baseball diamond five, 1741 Jasperson Dr.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18

KINGSVILLE LEGION FALL VENDORS MARKET – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at 145 Division St. South, Kingsville. Proceeds to Branch 188 programs.

ONGOING

ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT SOMEONE’S DRINKING? Al-Anon Family Groups meeting information: 519-790-7739 or www. alanonwindsoressex.com

IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, THAT’S YOUR BUSINESS If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous: 519-999-1234.

KINGSVILLE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETS the third Monday of the month – Sept., Oct. and Nov. at 7:00 pm at the Lions Community Hall, 21 Mill St. West, Kingsville. Meetings feature speakers, demonstrations & workshops. Everyone welcome. Email khs. inquiry@gmail.com for more information.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH OF OLINDA Sunday Service at 10:30 am with Rev. Paul Langston-Daley. Sept. 21 Topic: Covenant: The Care and Feeding the Community. 2953 Olinda Side Road, Ruthven, 548-324-4352. All are welcome.

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 519-326-8629 or visit our website at secc. on.ca.

EPILEPSY SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO & PARTNER CHATHAM-KENT CROWFEST 50/50 draw tickets in support of people living with epilepsy are available: 10 for $10, 40 for $20, 125 for $50, 300 for $100. Draw is Sept. 20 at 5:00 p.m. Ticket info: sandra@ epilepsyswo.ca or 519-4734073 ext .204. Tickets also available at all Crowfest events - cash or credit.

THE VILLAGE RESOURCE CENTRE WEEKLY EVENTS - 108 Talbot Road East, Wheatley. "Light The Way" Nar-Anon Family Group Mondays at 7:30 p.m. Chair Yoga Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. $10. GriefShare Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. Sept. 17 to Dec. 10. "Wheatley Warriors" Narcotics Anonymous Group Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. For more information call 226-484-1004 or visit www.villageresourcecentre. ca. Wheelchair accessible.

WHEATLEY BAPTIST CHURCH - 47 Talbot St. E. Everyone is welcome to come worship with us. Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Bible study Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. Adult fellowship Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m. For more info call 519-825-7433.

ERIE SHORES TOASTMASTERS MEETING at 6:30 pm every other Wednesday at Leamington Library, 1 John St. Free to attend. Develop Communication and Leadership Skills in a positive, friendly environment. Next meeting dates are Sept. 10 & 24. More info: email ErieShoresTM@yahoo.com, Facebook Erie Shores Toastmasters or go to ErieShores.toastmastersclubs.org.

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 am 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.

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.

KINGSVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE: STEP-IT-UP INDOOR POWER WALKING, Mondays at 9:15 am, at Grovedale, 103 Park St., Kingsville. No Fee. Registration required. kingsvillecentre.com

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.

KINGSVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE: TAI CHI, Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays. Various locations, no fee, registration required. kingsvillecentre.com

KINGSVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE: MARTIAL ARTS, Tuesdays and Thursdays, at 1860 DivisionRd. N., registration required. kingsvillecentre.com

COMMUNITY ANGEL CLOTHING CUPBOARD OPEN WEDNESDAYSappointments preferred, walk-ins are welcome 11:00 am - 2:00 pm. Call 519-326-3111 to book your appointment. All are welcome! Free! St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Donated gently used clothing for men, women and children of all ages.

HURON FARMWORKERS MINISTRY takes place Thursday afternoons at 4:00 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Workers can access a simple meal, clothing, food items, spiritual care and employment/immigration information. The program is in need of used or new bicycles to assist workers with transportation. Contact Deacon Deborah Wilson-Safa at 519326-3111.

KINGSVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE: GENTLE EXERCISE at 10:00 am, Wednesdays and Fridays, at Ruthven United Church, 1907 Queen Blvd. No Fee. Registration Required. kingsvillecentre.com

PROSPERUS COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK ADVOCACY WORKING GROUPS ARE LOOKING FOR PEOPLE (age 15+) who want to use their voice to make change in Leamington. Unlocking PotentialCradle to Career. Discuss community issues, raise awareness, host community events, hear guest speakers, write advocacy letters, attend council meetings. For meeting dates & location or more information, contact Karlene at 519-259-6148 or email knielsen@ weareunited.com.

MELO CLINIC & PREGNANCY CENTRE, 75 Erie Street South, Unit 103, Leamington, offers free and confidential services provided by registered nurses. Pregnancy tests, STI testing & treatment. Call 24/7 for confidential support 519-326-0612. Business calls 519-3263821. www.pregnancycentre.net.

VOLUNTEER TUTORS NEEDED - the United Way’s On Track to Success program is looking for individuals to help tutor high school students in Leamington in English, Math and/or Science. The program is offered at both LDSS & Cardinal Carter. Volunteer shifts available Monday to Thursday from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. If interested, contact Maia Williamson at mwilliamson@weareunited.com

THE KINGSVILLE FRIENDLY CLUB meets every Tuesday to play Cribbage, Euchre & Bridge at 12:45 in the Unico Community Centre at 37 Beech St. in Kingsville, and every Friday to play Bridge, Euchre & Pepper at 12:45. Come early if you want to play a particular game and have your choice of a seat.

COOKING WITH CHARTWELL - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd.; 3rd Thursday of every month. Step by step cooking class with Chef Henry. Samples served. Spots are limited. Register kim@kingsvillecentre.com.

WESTOVER - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd. N. Tuesdays 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Pre-treatment or after-care program for substance misuse. Do you, a friend or family member struggle with substance misuse? Come learn about the solution process. Drop-in group session. No registration required.

KINGSVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE: CAFE at 9:00 am to noon, Tuesday and Thursdays, at 1860 Division Rd. N., Free coffee, cookies, wifi and more.

KINGSVILLE MILITARY MUSEUM, is open Tuesday to Friday, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm & Saturday 9:00 am - noon, 145 Division St. S. (in Legion parking lot). Closed Sunday, Monday & holidays. Displays include medals from Boer War, WWI, WWII, Korea, and much more. Admission by donation. More info: kingsvillemilitarymuseum.ca

MUSICIANS AND SINGERS WANTED at the Leamington Half Century Club to join in the weekly singalong every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. Drop in if interested (160 Talbot St. E.). Call 519-326-2521.

CROSSWORD

PUZZLE

WORD

SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to falll.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

This week sharpens your focus with daily routines and well-being, Aries. It’s an excellent time to streamline your schedule, tackle neglected tasks and prioritize self-care.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Creativity and joy are themes for you this week, Taurus. Engage in hobbies, spend time with loved ones and embrace fun pursuits. Your artistic side may be especially inspired

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Your home and family life take center stage right now, Gemini. You might be focused on domestic projects, redecorating or spending quality time with the people you love.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Communication is key this week, Cancer. Expect a busy social calendar. Important conversations and new learning opportunities also may pop up. Your words carry weight.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, financial matters are center stage this week. This is a good time to review your budget, look for new income or make sensible investments. Your practical instincts are strong.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

This week is all about you, Virgo, especially if your birthday falls during these days. Focus on personal goals and self-improvement. Set strong intentions for the year ahead.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

It is time for rest and introspection, Libra. You might feel a need to retreat and recharge your batteries in the days to come. Pay attention to what your body is telling you.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Social connections and networking are driving you right now, Scorpio. Spend time with friends or host a party so others can stop by and mingle. You also can join group events.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, your career and public image are in focus this week. Opportunities for advancement or recognition could arise. Be professional and show off your leadership skills.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Expand your horizons, Capricorn. This is a great week for learning, planning travel or exploring new hobbies. Try to step outside of your comfort zone as much as possible.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, you might be dealing with financial arrangements or deepening a close bond with someone. Regardless, trust and vulnerability are important concepts right now.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Personal and professional relationships are your priority this week, Pisces. It’s important to compromise and seek harmony in all you do.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

SEPTEMBER 14 Pope Leo XIV, Religious leader (70)

SEPTEMBER 15 - Tom Hardy, Actor (48)

SEPTEMBER 16 Alexis Bledel, Actress (44)

SEPTEMBER 17 - Patrick Mahomes, Athlete (30)

SEPTEMBER 18 Patrick Schwarzenegger, Actor (32)

SEPTEMBER 19 - Sanaa Lathan, Actress (54)

SEPTEMBER 20 Jon Bernthal, Actor (49)

•Erie Shores HealthCare ER, 194 Talbot St. W., Leamington (up to 18 years of age)

•Windsor Regional Hospital ER, 1995 Lens Ave. (up to 15 years of age)

•Windsor Regional Hospital ER,1030 Ouellette Ave. (16+ years of age)

•Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare 24 hour Community Crisis Telephone Line 519-973-4435

•Mental Health First Response Team, (16+ years of age with a serious mental illness) 240 Grand Ave. W., Suite 100, Chatham 519-436-6100 Toll Free1-866-299-7447

•Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre 24 Hour Crisis Counselling 20 Sandys St., Chatham 519-351-9145

•Chatham-Kent Victim Services 24 Third St., Chatham 519-436-6630

•Chatham-Kent Sexual Assault Crisis Centre - Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention 405 Riverview Dr., Suite 101, Chatham 519-354-8908

•Sexual Assault Crisis Line 519-253-9667

•Trans Lifeline 1-877-330-6366

•LGBT Youthline 1-800-268-9688

•Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868

&

Call 519-818-1735.

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL PAINTINGOver 35 years experience. Smaller jobs preferredliving rooms, bedrooms, etc. Call Doug, 519-564-0698. se10-17

IRWIN PLUMBINGResidential rough-ins and repairs - 519-324-2202. A text is preferred if capable. Call if not. ja6-tf

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.

AUCTION

LARGE ESTATE AUCTION SALE

SATURDAY,

SEPT. 27TH

ONSITE - 1528 DEER RUN RD LEAMINGTON

Preview: 8:00am • Auction Starts: 9:00am

Go to this website for pictures and more information: www.murrayknappauctions.com

Large quantity of tools, chainsaw, tool box, large quantity of Royal Doulton figures, train sets, china dishes, costume jewellery, furniture, picture frames, clocks, dolls, uranium & manganese glass, much more. TERMS: CASH OR CHEQUE WITH PROPER I.D. NOT RESPONSIBLE

Public Notice of Pesticide Use

The Municipality of Leamington intends to control weeds on curbs, trails and rural bridges beginning on May 26, 2025, weather permitting, and ending October 31, 2025. The application of pesticide will be completed for public health and safety per section 7.1(2) of the Pesticides Act.

Curbs and trails will be treated with AXXE Broad Spectrum Herbicide which contains the active ingredient Ammonium Salt of Fatty Acid 36% (Registration #32719) registered under the Pest Control Products Act (Canada).

Rural bridges will be treated with Roundup Ultra2 Liquid Herbicide, containing the active ingredient glyphosate, present as potassium salt (Registration #28486) or Sicario 540 Herbicide containing the active ingredient glyphosate, present as potassium salt (Registration #34686) under the Pest Control Products Act (Canada).

Questions or concerns? Please contact:

Ken Brown, Manager of Public Works Municipality of Leamington 519-326-5761

(Collect calls will be accepted)

Additional

• Knowledge of food safety practices and regulations is crucial.

and

• While voluntary, the Red Seal endorsement is a nationally recognized certification for qualified cooks.

Wage:

• Base Rate: $25.00/hour, based on Qualifications and Experience. Please contact the Executive Director, Karen Loeppgy, by phone at 519-733-8202 or by email at: director@discovery-childcare.ca

gm@gualtierimechanical.com

PINNACLE ACRES REQUIRES Full time greenhouse general labourers. $17.20/hr

kingsvillearchives@gmail.com

September 22, 1997 - Tanya Breiter, a breast cancer survivor, receives a pink ribbon from the Honourable Hilary M. Weston, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Honourary Patron of the Canadian Cancer Society. The ceremony was in advance of the Society’s October Breast Awareness Month.

Random clippings from yesteryear provide insight into area’s history

February 15, 1900 – Ontario Scrapbook Hansard

Mr. J.A. Auld, Member of Provincial Parliament for South Essex, has a number of bills in hand. One is to confirm an agreement between the Town of Leamington and the County of Essex providing for free natural gas and light for the county poorhouse, and to enable Leamington to furnish free natural gas from their own wells to manufacturers.

A second bill is to enable the Pelee Island School Board to dispose of lands granted them.

A third measure seeks to enable the Town of Amherstburg to bring its public library under the public libraries act. The late James Boyle bequeathed the sum of $6,000 to the library and the interest from this sum goes to its support.

A.J. Tremblay of Tilbury to dispense with a law apprenticeship and to practise as a solicitor on passing the necessary examinations. The reason for this is that Mr. Tremblay is a French-Canadian and resides in a French-Candian district.

Mr. Auld also states that Yankee tugs are taking advantage of the laying up of the cruiser Petrel for the winter to fish with gill nets among the islands at the western end of Lake Erie. This poaching on Canadian preserves, he thinks, “should be put a stop to.”

May 29, 1925 – Stratford Mirror

The day may not be far distant when the bird sanctuary of Jack Miner near Kingsville, Ontario, shall have become a mecca that will draw bird lovers from all over the continent to come and marvel at his success in attracting and helping to preserve the wild birds of the north.

Recently, a most unusual pilgrimage was made to the Miner Sancutary by a group of men of unusual social quality, when 41 men in the multi-millionaire, mere millionaire and near millionaire class came all the way from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in three railroad coaches. They congregated in Pittsburgh and traveled all the way up to Kingsville, on the shores of Lake Erie, to see the great bird man.

A.W. Thompson, president of the Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania Railroad, who was one of the visitors, declared that his railroad had never before carried as much wealth as these men did. They reached Kingsville in the afternoon of an April day and were greeted by Mr. Miner and his sons, as well as

Dr. Robert D. Sloane of nearby Leamington, one of Miner’s righthand men.

In one regard the visitors were disappointed: the wild swans had nearly all gone, though there had been some 1,500 present the previous Sunday. Their first close-up of Canada geese gave these Pittsburgh millionaires a considerable thrill. Some 40 of these birds were floating in a nearby pond and some of them had their heads tucked under their wings asleep.

Mr. Miner instructed them to walk among the geese “just as if you were pallbearers at a funeral.”

December 31, 1930 – Border Cities Star

Recently, when the Busy Bees, a mission society of a Wheatley, Ontario church, collected a large number of articles of clothing and food for distribution to the needy in the Border Cities, a canvass was first made to see if there were any families in Wheatley who might be in need of help. Not one was found.

The country around Wheatley is devoted to many prosperous farms, some of the special cash crops being tomatoes, tobacco and cucumbers. To handle the large volume of contract tomatoes grown in the vicinity, the Heinz Company of Leamington maintains a receiving station, and also a receiving station for cucumbers.

Wheatley is organized as a police village and the population is close to 800. Arthur Pultzer was the 1930 reeve.

December 10, 1940 – Windsor Star

More than 50 years ago, five young women who had grown up together on farms near Wheatley were grouped together in a tintype photo. The five young women — Misses Liza and Etta Furey, Phoebe Willan, Alice Hatt and Miss Lizzie Willan — were recently reunited after 56 years. The youngest, Mrs. Phoebe (Willan) Terry, is now 70 years old.

August 29, 1968 – Windsor Star Sly and the Family Stone, Epic’s new recording group which was formed in San Francisco a little more than a year ago, will perform at Casper’s Pavilion at Point Pelee Friday from 8 pm to midnight. The group has appeared in major clubs and concert halls in Las Vegas, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco. The group was formed by Sly Stone who has achieved notable success as a pop music writer and their most popular recording is Dance to the Music.

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

Leamington’s Past courtesy of the C. Scott Holland Collection

1985 - The Wheatley Branch 324 Royal Canadian Legion Pee Wees have completed another highly successful season, and for the third year in a row have won the O.B.A. championship.

Pictured left to right, front row: Todd Brown, Jeff Thomas, Brian Stockton (team captain), Tommy Brown and Jan Getty. Second row: Kip Reid, Brian Moore, Andy Hancock, Jeff Ruiter, Robbie Ross and Brad Dawson. Back row: Ted Stockton, coach; Larry Brown, coach; Bill Hooker, Adam Soulliere, Mike McClellan and Alf Whaley, manager.

Fall threshing, from the Montgomery Family collection, September 1917.

Flyers blank Georgetown in home opener; edge Mississauga

By C. Scott Holland

The Leamington Flyers continue to roll as they reeled off two more wins in this young season over the weekend.

With 675 noisy fans cheering on the hometown Flyers in their home opener Thursday, Sept. 11 versus the Georgetown Raiders, Leamington clung to a slim lead for 40 minutes before surging in the third to defeat the Raiders 5-0.

On the road in Mississauga on Saturday the 13th, the Flyers struggled for 40 minutes before they grabbed a lead and held on to it for a 6-4 victory in goalie Gannon Hunter’s first OJHL game.

Head coach Dale Mitchell and his assistant coaches have their hands full this season with a large number of newcomers.

“We are still learning,” said Mitchell. “We are a new group that is slowly gelling together. The results are positive, but we want to continue the process every day, game in and game out. We are still early in the season and constantly evaluating what we have.”

In Thursday night’s home opener, Flyers starting netminder Tre Altiman stopped all 18 Georgetown scoring attempts that came his way to earn the shutout and run his record to 2-0.

After the pre-game ceremonies where each Flyers player was announced, they got down to business and threatened Georgetown netminder Ivan Kastelan 14 times in the first, another 14 in the second and 20 more times in the third.

The Flyers took a 1-0 lead at 8:51 of the first when Griffin Grundner

sent Ashton Darocy on a shorthanded breakaway and Darocy gunned his shot past Kastelan.

Excellent defensive work enabled Leamington to survive some early second-frame pressure by Georgetown, and Altiman turned in a number of good saves to keep the slate clean. Tyler Ross and Brayden Degelas clicked on passes before Jak Thiessen blasted a left lane screen shot to make

it 2-0.

It was all Flyers in the third as they limited the Raiders’ scoring chances to only four shots and utilized a sustained offensive attack and good puck control.

The Flyers three-goal third period splurge began with Grundner and Degelas who hooked up with Darocy for his second tally of the contest — a bullet shot from the top of the slot.

At 8:10, Braedon Clark’s rebound bounced onto Grundner’s stick and Grundner deftly stuffed it into the right side for a 4-0 lead. Reid Hayes and Captain Adrian Bosev put the finishing touches on the Flyers’ victory when they found Landon Pickersgill who ripped a shot from the right side.

Saturday night in Mississauga, the Chargers gave the Flyers and goalie Gannon Hunter a head-

ache for over 40 minutes before a third period surge put them into a lead which they held.

The Chargers took a lead before Ethan Tatomir blasted a left point shot to tie it.

Down 2-1 in the second, Sebastian Sanfilippo cashed in on a two-on-one break. But the Chargers went ahead once more.

The Flyers’ fortunes changed in the third when Brayden Degelas notched

road

two, the first coming on an open right side and the second on a left lane drive.

Brayden Lappalainen chipped in a marker and Jak Thiessen deposited an empty-net goal to complete the victory.

There will be no home game this week but the Flyers return on Thursday, September 25 to host Collingwood Blues at 7:10 pm.

Flyers rookie Jak Thiessen (#11) moves forward into the Georgetown zone as the puck goes between two Raiders defensemen after the opening faceoff, while linemate Santiago Jimenes trails. Thiessen — a hometown Leamington boy — scored in his home debut as the Flyers blanked Georgetown 5-0 in their home opener last Thursday. Scott Holland photo

Sharks rip Mooretown in home opener; drop close game to Lakeshore on road

By Greg Coulter

Fired up by Bob Dawson’s rendition of O Canada, the Wheatley Omstead Sharks overpowered Mooretown 8-2 in their home opener on Wednesday, September 10.

“We have a coachable bunch here,” said Head Coach Brad Hyatt. “Our team was prepared for opening night.”

Two power play tallies in the first saw the Sharks jump to a 2-1 first period lead. They blew the gates open and chased Mooretown starter John Chartrand with five more in the second.

Xander Zavier, Ryan Basile, Carson Murracas and Brendan Gouin

all tallied their first as a Shark. Adam Flanagan was solid between the pipes, notching his first junior win. Josh Chauvin, Colton Selwood, Kyle Bleau and Vito Alfano rounded out the scoresheet in a balanced attack.

Friday in Lakeshore, the Canadiens took advantage of first period power play opportunities to build a 3-0 lead over the visiting Sharks.

“It was a wonky start, as we tried to weather the storm of Lakeshore’s home opener,” said Coach Hyatt after the first period. “We settled down and got everyone into the game.”

Despite controlling the shot clock, the Sharks

could not overcome the defecit and closed out with a 4-2 loss. Brendan Gouin notched a goal in the second period, while Gavin Wasylyk fired his first Sharks tally.

Seth Zylstra (8), Hayden Klem (7) and Colton Selwood (10) play tic-tac-toe, finding themselves in close on a 3 on 0 during last Wednesday’s home opener at the Shark Tank. Only a sprawling leg stretch save by the goalie saw the puck narrowly slide by the post. Selwood would gain revenge, firing the game-winning marker early in the second period en route to a Sharks 8-2 home ice opening night win.

Golden Years mini golf report

If you’re looking for a sweet, spunky, and smart little dog with a big heart and even bigger personality, Ziggy might just be your guy. Ziggy hasn’t had the easiest start to life, but he’s come a long way thanks to the care and patience of his foster home. With structure, clear communication, and consistent routines, Ziggy has been showing us what a fun, affectionate, and lively companion he can be. Make no mistake-while he may look like a cuddly lapdog, Ziggy is all terrier: energetic, curious, clever, and always up for an adventure. He thrives when both his mind and body are engaged, and he’ll need a home that understands and embraces that part of him. He’s highly food motivated and responds wonderfully to positive reinforcement, so training has been a joyhe’s a fast learner and loves having a job to do. Ziggy’s ideal home is one that is active, structured, and terrier-savvy. He needs someone who’s home often, or who can thoughtfully help him become more comfortable being alone over time. Ziggy does have some special considerations, and our behavior team would be happy to discuss them with potential adopters.

Thursday, September 11 was the first game of the 2025-2026 season for the Golden Years Mini Golf League at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens.

It was so nice to see 58 golfers out for play and they scored an outstanding 84 aces.

Leading the way with five aces were Andy Orsini and Lloyd Symons, followed by Laurie Hylton, Heather James, and Donna Bileti with four aces. Scoring three aces were

Barb Haas, Julia Kos, Ron Fick, Buelah Whines and Jack Bostin. Twelve players who scored two aces were Andre Lalonde, Kaz Wszol, Linda Chiasson, Steve Acott, Shran Collins, Ray Foster, Constance Budd, Linda Whittle, Bill Ward, Ernie Purr, Ann Bonyai and Kathy Klym. Players who scored a single ace were Margaret R., Keith Hopper, Erle Nash, Jim James, Armand Decaluwe, Carol Hylton, Monique Benfield, Bill

Mayville, Al Wass, Linda Lavender, Lois Hudvagner, Colleen Pearce, Debbie Clinton, Bob Springthorpe, Andrea, Kathy Bechard, Rosemarie Purr, Betty McManus, Moe Sweet, Bob Tanner, AnneMarie Wszol, Gail Turk and Joel Bostin.

Top score over 18 holes were attained by Debbie Clinton and Andy Orsini with a score of 35, followed by Ray Foster, Ron Fick and Laurie Hylton (2) with 36. Scoring 37 were

Julia Kos and Bill Mayville, followed by Barb Haas, Keith Hopper, Bill Ward, Jack Bostin and Lloyd Symons (2) with scores of 38. Scoring 39 were Keith Hopper, Linda Chiasson, Colleen Pearce and Randy Nash.

Leading the way over 36 holes with a score of 72 was Laurie Hylton, followed by Andy Orsini and Lloyd Symons with 76. Keith Hopper and Ron Fick scored 77, followed by Bill Ward with 78. Scoring 79 were Julia Kos, Bill Mayville and Ray Foster

First place went to Team 8 comprised of Ray Foster, Lois Hudvagner, Linda Lavender and Constance Budd with a total of 315. Taking second place were members of Team 6 – Shran Collins, Barb Fick, Steve Bonyai and Monique Benfield – with a score of 331.

Third place went to Team 3 – Gisele Lapointe, Joanne Law, Julia Kos and Jim James – also with a score of 331.

Fun, laughs and also golf will continue on Thursday, September 18 at 10:30 a.m.

Greg Coulter photo

Beautiful weather greets Talbot Trail seniors

By Bob McLean

On Tuesday, September 9, there were 47 Talbot Trail senior men’s league members who enjoyed the perfect golfing weather as they played their weekly round of golf.

Ken Kreuger and Joe Drummond were the only two golfers to break 40. Kreug shot a very impressive 36 and Joe an outstanding 38. Nasher, Dutchy and Pearcie all fired excellent 40s. Rick Thompson earned a terrific 41, and Mac Hyatt a superb 43. Doug Langlois, Fuzzy and John Liddell all achieved very praiseworthy 44s. Fred Michano and Gerry Van Deven earned very commendable 45s.

The LP winner on #2 was BW as he drained an amazing 30-foot putt. Ken hit a scintillating shot on #9 to within 20 inches to claim the CP.

Here are some other very commendable results less than 50: Phil Humphries, BW, Bob Redel and Gerry Van Deven 46s; Richard Humber 47; Schmitty, Tim Will and Paul Harrison 48s; Ray Foster, OV and Dave Cham-

bers 49s.

There were five nifty 50 scores by these players: Andy Orsini, Lloyd Symons, Jerry Paine, Carl Robinson and John Hall.

Just slightly above the 50 mark were Al Kidd, Trigger, Len Snively and Dave Dibbley with their 51s.

SS Joe Vrtel shot an excellent 44 off the silver tees. Both Tom Hyatt and Andy Orsini were close behind with inspiring scores of 48 and 50 respectively. SS Gerry Becigneul once again produced a spectacular score of 46 off the gold tees. Carl Robinson placed second with his noteworthy 50. Erle Nash shot an inspiring 54.

The league’s final scramble will occur on Tuesday, September 23. The WRGC excursion is on Wednesday, September 24.

How many golfers to change a light bulb? “Fore!”

Members enjoyed a very good time at the Doc McLean Tournament on Wednesday. Special thanks to all those who made it successful.

Curling Club open house

The Sun Parlour Curling Club is holding a registration open house on Wednesday, September 24, welcoming curlers and prospective curlers to the club on Seacliff Drive.

It’s a free event and

The Erie Shores senior men’s golf league enjoyed beautiful weather for their day of golf on September 8.

The draw winners were Ken Cobby and Dave Wilkinson.

Closest to the hole on #3 were Brian Collins and Ken Cobby.

The longest putt on #4 was made by Dave Binder and on #14 Ken Cobby.

gives people a chance to find out what curling is all about and sign up for different programs at the club. Attendees can meet with current members, learn about various leagues, find out about beginner programs and lessons and how to become part of the curling community.

The event runs from 7-9 pm at 55 Seacliff Drive East.

Erie Shores men’s golf scores

Bob Sutherland. Third place at 142 went to Jerry Mallard, John Mills, Fred Klassen and Brian Collins. In fourth at 143 were Vince Branca, Dino Venerus, Bill Slater and Jerry Meloche.

The low games for the day were by John Rutgers 79 and Ken Cobby 80.

Bridge Club scores Concierge

The three low net winners were Rick Metz 62, Bob Sutherland 65 and Al Munson 68.

Tasha Slater

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.

September 12: 1st Derek Parry and Henry Hildebrandt, 2nd Shirley Morel and Cathy Mitchell, 3rd Pauline Mikolash and Roger Cote.

September 15: 1st Shirley Morel and Henry Hildebrandt, 2nd Mac Stanley and Remi Fournier, 3rd Pauline Mikolash and Roger Cote.

The winning team at 140 was Ron Tiessen, Claudio Sabelli and Scott Maxwell. In second at 141 were Jamie Arquette, Dan Wood, Ron Tremblay and

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TEAM PHOTOS

• Submit team photos any time during the season

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WRITE-UPS

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• Please limit your submissions to 150 words

• We recommend having one person responsible for write-ups throughout the season (i.e. team manager or parent)

Brian Collins birdied #1 and #12, John Mills #1, #11, #14 and #16, Dave Binder #4, John Campbell and Tom Klassen #6, Bob Sutherland #9, John Rutgers #12, Jerry Mallard #15, Dan Wood, Doug Brown and Ken Cobby finished the birds on #16.

Annual ESHF Golf Tournament attracts 172 golfers

By Mark Ribble

Sunny skies and moderate temperatures were just what the doctor ordered as the annual Erie Shores Health Foundation Golf Tournament teed off at Kingsville Golf and Country Club on Thursday, September 11. A total of 43 foursomes

converged on the course for an 11 am start in a scramble format, with a putting contest, complimentary glove bar, prize table and a patio par-tee (party) awaiting them. This marks an increase in attendance over last year’s event. Local generous spon-

sors help the event stand out and dozens of volunteers make it all come together.

The tournament is one of the signature fundraisers for the organization with proceeds supporting care close to home at Erie Shores HealthCare. They expect to announce the grand total of funds raised in the coming weeks.

In the photo to the left, Greg Tiessen hits a long drive on the Red #1 tee to kick off the competition.

In the upper right, three Tiessens and a Reid were among the first teams to hit them straight at the annual ESHF Golf Tournament on Thursday, September 11. The Tiessen Financial team featured, from left, Greg Tiessen, Ron Tiessen, Hugo Tiessen and Kevin Reid.

In the photo bottom right, among those representing the Health Foundation were Brienne Mastronardi, left, and Chelsea Hickson, who were positioned at the registration table.

photos

SUN

by Mark Ribble