“Our
State of the county address filled with optimism
Warden praises region as ‘world class’
By Andy Comber
The region has a proud past and promising future - a story that needs to be told to the world.
That was a message presented by Essex County Warden Tom Bain in the 4th Annual State of the County Address, hosted by the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, Thursday, April 21 at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Belle River.
“We have the people and the tools,” Bain said. “We need to tell our story.”
Bain said the region is adapting after the downturn in the auto sector, putting its resources into new and diversified industries that are getting attention on the world stage.
This year, the Windsor and Essex County region was named as one of the top seven smartest communities in the world by the Intelligent Community Forum. Its co-founder made a two-day visit here last week to help decide the number one spot for innovative communities in the broadband economy, Bain said.
“By looking inward at who we are and what we do, we have come to realize that we as a community are world class in so many ways,” he said. “We are without a doubt worthy of Number 1.”
Bain challenged political, business and industry leaders to keep up the momentum established in recent months. “ I feel a sense of entrepreneurship in our region,” he said. “We here are world class – we just have to let the rest of the world know our secret – I dare you to join me in our journey.”
Staff volunteers from Leamington RONA were busy cleaning up the Greenway Trail between Robson Road and Seacliff Drive on Thursday, April 21 to celebrate Earth Day. Pictured here, these little helpers were taking a donut and water break. From left to right are Eve Miles, Luke Miles, Lily Miles and Madelyn Pavao. (SUN Photo)
Staff volunteers from Leamington RONA store were busy on Thursday morning, April 21 raking and bagging leaves and debris from the Greenway Trail between Robson Road and Seacliff Drive. Pictured here is the group of enthusiastic volunteers after bagging approximately 40 bags of leaves.
(SUN Photo)
Listen Saturdays at 6 pm and Sundays at 1 pm to the Mix 96.7 Hit List. Email hitlist@mix967.ca to vote for the song you think should be #1! This WeekLast Week ArtistSong Title 13 Adele Rolling In The Deep 22ScriptFor The First Time 31Pink Perfect
47 Maroon 5Never Gonna Leave This Bed 54Lady GaGaBorn This Way 65 Bruno Mars Grenade 76Enrique IglesiasTonight (I’m Loving You) 812 Katy Perry & Kanye West E.T. 98Cee Lo GreenForget You 1011Colbie CaillatI Do 1110Avril LavigneWhat The Hell 129Katy PerryFirework
1316LifehouseFalling In 1413 Florence & The Machine Dog Days Are Over 1514Pink Raise Your Glass 1617Andy GrammerKeep Your Head Up 1715Taylor SwiftBack To December 1819Sara BareillesUncharted 1920 UsherMore 2021 My Chemical Romance Sing
Listen to win Britney Spears tickets on Mix 96.7, everyday this week, before they go on sale!
41st Federal Election this Monday, May 2
Canadians are heading to the polls to vote in the 41st federal election on Monday, May 2. The last two elections were October 14, 2008 and January 23, 2006. The 2008 election resulted in a second consecutive Conservative minority government. The first, elected during the 2006 federal election, lasted nearly three years and became the longest-standing minority parliament in Canadian history. There are 308 seats in the House of Commons of Canada and 155 seats are needed for a majority.
Voters in the riding of Chatham-Kent Essex will cast their ballot for one of four candidates: Progressive Conservative (PC) MP Dave Van Kesteren; Matt Daudlin of the Liberal Party; Ron Franko, New Democratic Party (NDP); or Robert Hodgson representing the Green Party.
Matt Daudlin
Liberal Party of Canada
Matt Daudlin is a family man with two school-aged children, and a long family history with the Liberal Party. Matt’s wife Sherrie is a Curriculum Consultant with the local Catholic School Board.
Matt Daudlin has a diverse background: He is a secondary school teacher, licensed professional mediator, licensed general contractor, small business owner, professional musician, and church leader. Matt has a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education, and a diploma in Mediation and Conflict Resolution. He works across the province for the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation with
teachers, unions, and administrators. He retains a strong blue-collar connection as past branch president for his local school of his teachers union, with his own general contracting business in Chatham, and as a Class “A” cross-border truck driver.
Matt Daudlin has over 20 years of community service experience, including Ontario Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity, Knights of Columbus, Chatham-Kent Police Youth Action Committee, Rosemarie Miller Doctor Recruitment Fund, Scouts Canada, and Coordinator of Youth Ministry at his local church.
Matt Daudlin was acclaimed the Liberal candidate for Chatham-Kent Essex at a nomination meeting on March 18, 2011. His father, the Hon. Bob Daudlin, is a retired federal judge who served the community as a Liberal MP for a decade. Matt is a teacher at Kingsville District High School and also works for the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation as a mediator.
Ron Franko
New Democratic Party
Candidate for the NDP is Ron Franko of Chatham, who was born, raised, educated and has worked in ChathamKent all his life. He was acclaimed at a nomination meeting March 10, 2011. He is getting back into politics because he wants to change the local economy. Franko is a real estate agent and says he sees a lot of hard times through his work. He says he has dealt with people who are losing their homes, and seniors who have had to move to smaller apartments to save $50 a week. Franko notes that fewer than 50 per cent of people voted in the last election and he is hoping to inspire those who feel left out of the political process to vote for him.
THIS WEEK’S MUSICAL BIRTHDAYS
1980, Kian Egan, vocals, Westlife
1979, Joanne Velda O'Meara, vocals, lead vocalist, S Club 7
1968, Carine Wilson, of Wilson Phillips, daughter of Beach Boy Brian Wilson 1951, Paul Frehley, guitarist, KISS
1947, Peter Ham, vocalist, Badfinger (deceased)
1944, Rita Coolidge, ('Higher')
1942, Bobby Rydell ('Wild One')
SONGS TO HIT #1 THIS WEEK
1993, Silk-'Freak Me
1991, Amy Grant-'Baby Baby'
1985, USA For Africa-'We Are The World' (all-star cast included Stevie Wonder, Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen, Diana Ross, Bob Dylan, Daryl Hall, Huey Lewis, Cyndi Lauper, Kim Carnes, Ray Charles, Billy Joel, Paul Simon, Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie.)
1983, Michael Jackson-'Beat It'
1979, Blondie-'Heart Of Glass'
1976, The Bellamy Brothers-'Let Your Love Flow'
1970, The Jackson Five-'ABC'.
1966, The Young Rascals-'Good Lovin' 1965, Herman's Hermits-'Mrs Brown You've Got A Lovely Daughter'.’
MUSIC EVENTS ON THIS WEEK'S DATES
2003, Ozzy Osbourne's 17 year old son Jack went into rehab.
2001, a light aircraft carrying Sting went off the runway as it landed in Florence. Nobody was injured.
2000, Singer Vicki Sue Robinson ('Turn The Beat Around') died
1999, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the same day that The Verve ('Bittersweet Symphony') announced they had split
Everything from ABBA to ZZ Top
1998, Steven Tyler broke his knee at a concert in Anchorage, Alaska
1997, The house where Kurt Cobain committed suicide went up for sale. The asking price for the 90+ year old five-bedroom house was $3 million. The carriage house where the Nirvana guitarist died had been demolished.
1994, A man was arrested after breaking into Ace Of Base singer Jenny Berggren's home. Jenny was asleep at the time and woke up to find the man above her holding a hunting knife.
1994, Grace Slick pleaded guilty to pointing a shotgun at police in her California home.
1993, Prince announced he was retiring from studio recordings to concentrate on film and other ventures.
1992, Singer Paula Abdul and actor Emilio Estevez were married, but divorced two years later.
1990, The Fender Stratocaster that Jimi Hendrix played at Woodstock festival was auctioned off for a record $295 000.
1990, Guns N' Roses leader Axl Rose married Erin Everly, daughter of The Everly Brothers, but divorced after a stormy 9 months of marriage.
1987, U2 started a 5-week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'The Joshua Tree.'
1984, Fleetwood Mac drummer and founder member Mick Fleetwood filed for bankruptcy.
1982, Rod Stewart was robbed by a gunman of his $50 000 Porsche on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles.
1981, Ringo Starr married actress and one time 'Bond girl' Barbara Bach.
1980, Black Sabbath began their first tour with vocalist Ronnie James Dio, who had replaced Ozzy Osbourne.
1979, Elton John became the first pop star to perform in Israel. 3 weeks later, he also became the first Western solo pop performer to tour Russia.
Robert Hodgson Green Party
Robert Hodgson was born in London Ontario where he attended both elementary and secondary school but with a good deal of time spent with his extended family in the rural farming community of Middlesex County. He attended Conestoga College of Applied Arts and Technology in Kitchener, Ontario, where he obtained his a diploma in nursing. He moved to the Essex County area 10 years ago and has been employed as a (Continued on Page 3)
Election Day
May 2, 2011
(Continued from Page 2)
Registered Nurse with Leamington District Memorial Hospital both as a resident nurse on Pelee Island for four years and in the Emergency Department in Leamington for the past six years.
He has previously been employed in the Intensive Care Unit at the Michael E. DeBakey Heart Institute of Kansas in Hays, Kansas, and at Churchill Regional Health Authority in Churchill, Manitoba, where he also qualified and volunteered on the local ambulance service.
Robert possesses an intimate knowledge of the health care system, its challenges and failings. He has also been elected to Municipal office, which provided insight to the ineffective relationship between all levels of government. He is also acutely aware of regional transportation issues.
Previous experience includes:
Current and past member
Ontario Nurses Association - Local 008 - Contract Negotiation CommitteeLeamington Hospital Bargaining Unit
Former Joint Chairperson - Occupation Health and Safety - Leamington Hospital
Municipal CouncillorTownship of Pelee 20032005
His community service contributions also include:
Former Membership Chairperson - Royal Canadian Legion Branch 403
Former leader, Boy Scouts of Canada
Sitting male representative, southwest region, Green Party of Ontario, Provincial Executive
Robert also possesses a lifetime of personal and volunteer experience assisting individuals with developmental challenges.
“I feel that people are not seeking to be governed, they are seeking leadership. The role of an MP should be to represent his constituents, to have knowledge of and share in their concerns.
They need someone who faces similar challenges on a day to day basis and has an understanding of the unique diversity of this riding. (rural, urban and marine), someone who proposes a vision for the future, not a haphazard short-term approach.”
Dave Van Kesteren Conservative
41st Federal Election
Dave Van Kesteren was elected as the Member of Parliament for ChathamKent-Essex in January 2006 as a Conservative Government Member of Parliament, led by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. His election to office in 2006 marked the first time in over ten years that Chatham-Kent-Essex had elected a Conservative Member of Parliament. Prior to becoming the Member of Parliament for Chatham-Kent-Essex, Dave worked in the auto industry. In 1985, Dave opened his first auto body shop, later running his own used car business and then becoming a Hyundai dealer in 1996. Born in Chatham to Dutch parents who immigrated to Canada in the early 1950s, he is the fifth child of ten children. Strong proponents of family values, Dave and his wife, Faye, have celebrated 34 years of marriage and have eight adult children. They have been blessed with many grandchildren. In the 39th Parliament, as the newly elected Member of Parliament for Chatham-Kent-Essex, he was a Member of the Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and
Ethics, the Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology, and the Subcommittee on Oil and Gas and other Energy Prices. Currently in the 40th Parliament he is a Member of the Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology, the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans, and has completed his first chairmanship of the Sub-Committee on Canadian Industrial Sectors. He is an active member on numerous parliamentary associations and interparliamentary groups, specifically, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group, Canada-United Kingdom Interparliamentary Association, Canada-Japan InterParliamentary Group, Canada-Israel Interparlimentary Group, Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association, Canada-China Legislative Association, Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association, and Canada-Taiwan Friendship Group. This does not include the several Friendship groups he is associated with including the CanadaNetherlands Friendship Group where he was recently named Chair.
Dave has had several opportunities to travel internationally on behalf of the Government of Canada. He traveled to Taiwan in 2006 with the Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association to further Canada’s diplomatic trade relations in the region, to China in 2007 and again to Taiwan in 2008 with other government members to
celebrate the Presidential Inauguration. Today Dave continues to represent the people of Chatham-Kent-Essex and their interests at the Federal level. He is very proud of the riding and works hard every day to keep Canada a strong and prosperous nation, not only for our generation but for those generations to come.
All things royal
There’s going to be no hiding from one of the biggest news stories of the year when it happens this weekend.
The royal wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton on April 29 will attract millions of viewers who plan to set their alarm clocks for 3 a.m. to watch the wedding from beginning to end live. Others have opted for the abbreviated 5 a.m. start, which is when Kate and William are expected to walk down the isle. The two hours leading up to it is just the “pre-game” show leading up to the actual event.
You won’t be able to miss it, no matter how hard you might try.
It will be on the television, radio, internet, Twitter, Facebook and there will be plenty of coverage in newspapers.
But the royal wedding won’t stop there. They’ll talk about what the new princess was wearing, who was there and what they were wearing, what the tackiest piece of royal wedding merchandise was, and inevitably the talk will soon turn to when the couple will bring a new heir to the throne into the world.
Gas prices hop up in time for Easter
I’m fortunate that I don’t have to drive too far. I only drive three kilometres to work every day and most trips are within 20 km. I think I am like a lot of people who try to keep our reliance on gasoline to a minimum even though we are totally dependent upon it.
Love them or hate them, the royals have a way of capturing us all. Who doesn’t enjoy reading about Prince Harry’s latest antics? It might not be hard-hitting news and it may pale in comparison to some of the world’s dramas at present, but it’s intriguing stuff and it takes our minds off the world’s doom and gloom for a while.
No big shocker that last week the price of gas jumped by 10 cents a litre just two days before the Easter holiday weekend.
And of course, there will be comparisons, comparisons to the royal wedding of William’s parents. For many it will take them back to the 1981 marriage of Prince William’s father, Prince Charles, to the late Princess Diana.
And just like his parents’ wedding did, these royal nuptials will capture the world’s imagination. Crowds will line the streets of London as Kate makes her way to Westminster Abbey to experience every little girl’s dream.
She’s marrying a prince and becoming a princess. It’s a fairytale story.
But let’s face it, in a day and age where so much of the news in the world seems to be doom and gloom, it’s nice to have something positive like a royal wedding to bring a smile to the faces of people around the world and allow children to dream of princesses and princes.
I know every gas station owner in Ontario will swear that holidays have nothing to do with the price of gas rising. Yah, right! If that’s true, this must be one of the most coincidental occurrences that happen every holiday weekend!
I have no problem with gas stations saying, hey it’s a matter of supply and demand – you need gas to travel to see your family for the holiday, and I have it – for a price… At least that would be honest. I realize that each individual gas station has to put their price in line with everyone else, so maybe it’s the oil companies who decide to fleece us every long weekend.
What really hurts is that the price will jump 10 cents, but when it does go back down, it’ll only go down five cents and we still get excited because we “think” we’re getting cheap gas at $1.25 a litre! Isn’t it ridiculous that we consider gas at over a dollar a litre to be cheap gas!? I’m not that old and I remember pumping gas for 36 cents a litre. I remember when people cried murder when the price hit 50 cents.
The one thing to remember is, do not blame the poor teenager or person working at the gas station for the price of gas. Trust me, most are making minimum wage and have absolutely nothing to do with the price of gas. I was always amazed at the seemingly intelligent people who thought I actually had control over the price of gas.
I was driving out the north end of Leamington last week and almost did a u-turn when I saw the Petro Canada sign was at $1.09 a litre for gas. Apparently, they have been temporarily closed for a few weeks. Imagine that, in just a few weeks, gas went from $1.09 to $1.29!
S Soouutthhppooiinnt t S Saayyss. . ....
Will you be watching the TV coverage of the royal wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton this Friday, April 29?
Christine Hodgson
“Probably. I think it will be beautiful to see, and it’s romantic.”
Doreen Will
“Oh yes. I watched William’s parents get married and I’m not going to miss this part of history.”
Jody Martineau
“Oh yeah. It’s a big event and it’s not every day I get to see a prince and new princess get married.”
Craig Buchenauer
“No, I won’t. It’s not my cup of tea.”
Just holding up your end
We thoroughly enjoyed our Easter weekend surrounded by family and catching up on all the changes in all of our lives. An exciting time ahead for all the young adults in our lives, yet not one that needs to identify them here and now.
Easter and Thanksgiving are welcome breaks for all the students studying away from home. After being away just long enough to establish all the useless things they initially took with them, Thanksgiving is timely. They take advantage of hauling those things home and stocking up with everything they realize they really need, including more home cooking.
E-LETTERS
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War Amps Key Tags arriving in mailboxes
This year marks the 65th anniversary of The War Amps Key Tag Service. Ontario residents who live in Postal Code N received their 2011 key tags in the mail recently. A letter enclosed with the key tags tells the story of War Amps member Ralph Hodgson, who lost his leg at Vimy Ridge in World War I. Hodgson met the amputees returning in hospital ships from World War II, greeting them on behalf of The War Amps and providing an encouraging picture of their futures as amputees.
The War Amps founding philosophy of “amputees helping amputees” has been proudly passed along to the thousands of children who have come through its CHAMP Program for child amputees. The Association has just marked the 35th anniversary of CHAMP, the graduates of which have taken up the torch and will continue its work long into the future.
Key tags protect any keys, not just car keys! Since 1946, The War Amps has returned more than one million sets of keys, and the service is more vital than ever with the extremely high replacement cost of keys and remote devices. Each key tag has a confidentially-coded number. Should the keys be lost, the finder need only call the toll-free number on the back of the tag, or deposit them in any mailbox, and the keys will be returned to the owner by bonded courier.
The War Amps receives no government funding. For more information, or to order key tags, call toll-free 1 800 250-3030 or visit waramps.ca.
Some have termed this home coming ‘the turkey drop’ for those that left their high school loves behind and have now found a world full of possibilities including new friends and relationships.
As parents, we witness our children missing home for the first time and appreciating more than ever all the special little things that we do for them. Fresh clean sheets, mold free showers, available clean dishes and utensils and quiet are not always readily available in residence.
Christmas, with all the hype, comes and goes with the long haul of a new semester still ahead. Then suddenly out of a bleak winter, Easter arrives along with the promise of warm weather ahead.
Lifestyles Lifestyles
While visiting with my children, their friends and cousins over the holiday weekend, I found the consensus was that somehow another school year had rounded third base and was sliding into home plate. As the Tigers ball team winds up into another season, exams are winding down and our children are either on the hunt for a job or have efficiently secured one.
Many of them are stressed over who or what they are to become, not realizing that they are who they are and will become what they will. At 46, I am still finding myself a work in progress.
Business, chiropractic, fashion and design are some the endless possible career choices that our young adults are choosing from, both near and far away. It can be an exciting and challenging time for them and a rewarding or heartbreaking one for us to witness.
Sunday, I celebrated Easter and my birthday. I took advantage of relaxing a little longer in the morning until the many local and far away wishes greeted me at my door, over Facebook and by phone from the many people that have helped me become me.
Reflecting over another year, like the students returning at Thanksgiving, I decide to leave some things behind and to carry on with those activities or things that add to my life in a fulfilling way. By doing this, it makes it easier to enjoy every day and do my best.
My sister-in-law and mother of two children puts it perfectly: “I always tell my kids, what you decide to do for a living cannot define you. That is not who you are. I was a dancer my whole life. When I wasn’t a dancer anymore, I was a mother, a volunteer… it’s what I did and what I did well. What I’m doing now, I’m doing well. It’s like a piece of choreography. If I fall down and don’t do my part, the whole piece of choreography is ruined. It’s a privilege, holding up my end of the piece.”
Little Tomato Theatre presents “Beauty and the Beast”
Little Tomato Theatre will proudly present the joyous family musical “Beauty and the Beast” on May 5 (7 p.m.), May 6 (7 p.m.), May 7 (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.) and May 8 (2 p.m.). 103 talented youngsters ranging in age from 5-20 will entertain audiences with sensational singing, dynamic dancing and amazing acting. The production also features vibrant costumes and a magnificent set. A five-piece orchestra will have you singing and toe-tapping to all of your favourite songs as you join the cast for Belle’s magical journey! Pictured above, from the left, are Shawna Wiznuk of Harrow (Madame Bouche), Kim Morin of Leamington (Lumiere), and Tim Bradley of Wheatley (Cogsworth). In front is Amber Dubois of Windsor (Belle). The show will be staged at the UMEI Auditorium (6th Concession at Hwy 77, just north of Leamington). Tickets are $10, and only $6 for a special sneak preview on May 5. Call today for tickets at 322-1896.
Book Club to host reading by author Ann Birch
The Seacliff Drive Book Club is hosting a reading by Toronto author Ann Birch of her latest book, ‘Settlement’, on Sunday, May 1 at 2:00 p.m. at St. John’s Anglican Church Hall, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. All are welcome to attend this exciting event.
Ann will discuss her recently-published and critically-acclaimed historical novel, Settlement, an intriguing tale which includes scandals involving two major figures in Toronto’s history, Anna Jameson and Sam Jarvis.
Here’s what people are saying about Ann Birch and Settlement:
“Birch not only brings 19th century Canada to life… but its characters as well. Gossipy women, pompous politicians, and a flawed hero and heroine are vividly described. Settlement is a first novel; I await the second.” – US Historical Novel Review
“Ann Birch is the perfect combination of historian and novelist. While reading Anna Jameson’s classic memoirs of her visit to Canada in 1836, Winter Studies and Summer Rambles, Birch fixed on a
small detail about ‘dear Mr. Jarvis’ bringing the brave lady voyageur a mug of hot Madeira in her tent on a canoe trip down Lake Huron. Who was Sam Jarvis, his name given to one of Toronto’s iconic streets? A very complex person, it appears. He killed a man in a duel, yet fought nobly in the War of 1812. In later years, he pocketed government money in his job as Superintendent of Indian Affairs.
On the other hand, he educated his daughters over a century before the concept became accepted. An ideal flawed hero. Unbeknownst even to her, Birch had been preparing for years to bring to life this exciting period. Working for a decade in Toronto’s famous old homes, The Grange (1818) and Campbell House (1822) as
well as reading from original sources, she had borne witness to the morals and the mores of a time gone by…” – Lou Allin, mystery author
Ann Birch is the sister-inlaw of book club member Jan Lawrence and sister of the late Dr. Hugh Lawrence, a well-respected and muchmissed local surgeon.
Copies of Settlement will be available for purchase at the reading. For more information call 519-325-0226.
Ann Birch
Listen to 92.7 MAX FM for more events happening in Leamington and Essex County during the Max Cares Community Calendar 6 times daily or visit www.927maxfm.com for a complete listing
FRIDAY, APRIL 29 - BBQ Fundraiser for M.D. Bennie School – to be held at Metro Supermarket parking lot, 304 Erie St. South, Leamington, from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. There will be classic cars, face painting, kettle corn, hot dogs and snack packages. Dave Connelly and the Schneider’s NASCAR race team will be there.
SATURDAY, APRIL 30 - “Second Chance Treasures” Fashion Show at Leamington United Church, 9 John St., Leamington, at 7 p.m. Adults $7, children $4. Proceeds for church sound system, Etcetera Shoppes, Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul Stores. For more information, call 519-3269461.
SATURDAY, APRIL 30 - The Arthritis self-management program, to help you take control of living with your arthritis, starts April 30 and lasts 6 weeks. Weekly 2-hour sessions, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. At Windsor Family Credit Union, 5932 Malden Rd., Lasalle. Cost: $35 textbook included. Registration required. Call 519-965-2561, 519-944-2619 or email windsoressexarthritis@live.ca.
SATURDAY, APRIL 30 - Regular Meeting of the Leamington Mersea Historical Society is at 12:00 noon. Theme is "Show and Tell". Bring a historical item or story and tell about it. Everyone is welcome. Bring a lunch.
SATURDAY, APRIL 30 - “Paint the Town Pink” event throughout Kingsville, with proceeds benefitting the Wonder Broads of Windsor Essex County. Picture taking, a toonie toss, draws, Girl Guide Cookies, and the Wonder Broads and their dragon boat will be on hand to raise awareness.
SUNDAY, MAY 1 - The Essex-Kent Bluegrass, Oldtime & Folk Music Association presents A Spring Bluegrass Music Salute! Bill Monroe’s Centennial. Performances by association member groups - Fiddle Pals, Essex County Ramblers, Stay Tuned, Winterline, The Motley Crew. At Kingsville Lakeside Park Pavilion, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. A free event.
SUNDAY, MAY 1 - The Soli Deo Gloria Singers under the direction of Paul Dueck and Nancy Dyck are performing their spring concert “The Lord Is My Shepherd” at 3:00 p.m. at UMEI 6th conc. West of Hwy. 77, north of Leamington. Tickets: adults $10 advance, $12 at door ; students $5 advance, $6 at door. Tickets available at Mennonite Savings & Credit Union, Leamington or from choir members. Please all UMEI for more info, 519-326-7448.
SUNDAY, MAY 1-Chelle's Big 3-0 Hair Chop for Cancer at Vernon's Tap & Grill, Main Street, Kingsville from 11:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., a $10 pasta dinner with lots of yummy desserts, prizes, entertainment, and photo fun to benefit the Windsor & Essex County Cancer Centre Foundation's Patient Assistance Fund, hair donation to Wigs for Kids. For tickets or info call 519-551-3494 or visit www.WindsorCancerFoundation.org/Chelle.
SUNDAY, MAY 1 - Pork Steak BBQ, from 3:30 p.m.-6 p.m. at Mersea United Church, Mersea Road 8, east of Blytheswood (corner of Road 8 and Road 12). Adults $12.50, ages 6-12 $5, ages 5 and under free. For tickets call 519-825-7300 or 519-825-4157. Proceeds to benefit Leamington District Memorial Hospital, Gesstwood Camp and the Downtown Mission.
SUNDAY, MAY 1 - The Windsor Coin Club Canada’s Best One Day Coin Show. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at
the Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Ave., Windsor. Coins, paper money, tokens, and more! Admission $1. Junior members free. Plenty of free parking. For more info call 519-735-0727 or mclarke@wincom.net.
TUESDAY, MAY 3 - Depression “Let’s Talk” Join us for a free public education forum! Facilitated by John Postons (M.S.W.) At Essex Centre Sports Complex, Shaheen Community room, 60 Fairview Ave. W., Essex, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Recognizing the symptoms. Understanding the causes. Effective strategies to manage it. Ways to support family and friends. Everyone welcome! Rides available - call Essex Community Services, 519-776-4231. Mental Health Week is May 1-7, 2011. “Think About It”.
SATURDAY, MAY 7 - Knox Presbyterian Church, Leamington is having its Annual Yard Sale in the church hall 8:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. For more info or to donate items for the sale, contact the church at 519326-4541.
SATURDAY, MAY 7 - St. Michael’s Catholic Women’s League will host their 60th Anniversary Celebration. Guest speaker is Fr. Clare Coleman, Director of Priest Personnel. Mass at 5 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 310 Sherk St., Leamington, followed by a banquet at 6:30 p.m. at the Roma Club, 19 Seacliff Dr. E., Leamington. Tickets: adults $30, children age 4-10 $15, under 4 years free. Tickets available at St. Michael’s Parish Office, 29 Elliott St., Leamington, or by calling 519-3262643.
MAY 8-11 - Dr. Ron Carlson, President of Christian Ministries International, international speaker on apologetics will be at First Baptist Church, 3 Fox St., Leamington to present seminars on ‘Answers for Your Faith in a World of Counterfeits’. World Religions May 8, 10:45 a.m. Evolution May 8, 7:00 p.m. The ‘Jesus’ of the Cults May 9, 7:00 p.m. Jehovah’s Witnesses May 10, 7:00 p.m. Mormonism May 11, 7:00 p.m. Free will offering.
MONDAY, MAY 9 - Leamington Christian Women’s After 5 invites you to a dinner at 6:30 p.m. at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens. Tickets $14. Speaker Mary Wood - Stevensville, MI “Always Enough”. Special feature Maureen SutherlandClass Acts Concepts. Music by Dana Romualdi. Reservations necessary, call Sharon 519-326-0421 or Darlene 519-733-5595.
THURSDAY, MAY 12 - ‘Black Gold: Wake Up and Smell the Coffee’. A powerful film, tracing the steps of one man’s fight for a fair price. Showing at Ten Thousand Villages, 2 Talbot St. Leamington, 7:00 p.m. Admission: FREE. Sample fair trade coffee. 519-324-0471.
FRIDAY, MAY 13 - Leamington Historical Society is holding a Pasta Dinner & Variety Show at 6:00 p.m. at the Rhine Danube Club. Tickets $15. Call Betty, 519-326-5916.
FRIDAY, MAY 13 & SATURDAY, MAY 14Rummage Sale at First Baptist Church, 3 Fox St. Leamington, 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Friday, 9:00 a.m.12:00 noon Saturday. Gently used spring and summer clothing, small household items, children’s clothing and toys, books, home decor.
SATURDAY, MAY 14 - World Fair Trade Day. Celebrate 'making a difference' through fair trade at Ten Thousand Villages. Explore fair trade through food samples, music, games and stories. Story times; 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm. 2 Talbot St., Leamington, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. 519-324-0471.
Leamington Budget
Sessions 2011
After two days of line by line budget review, Leamington Mayor John Paterson is hopeful that municipal residents will have a zero or very near zero tax increase this year. The municipal portion of the tax bill will see approximately a 1.3 per cent increase, but with a lower ERCA portion than initially projected in the draft budget, the overall levy could be around zero. The mayor also pointed out that the municipality has no control over school board increases, which could affect the levy.
Reviewing the municipal budget is a daunting task for Municipal Council at the best of times.
This year the difficulty of the task was compounded by a number of factors: more than half the council is new to the job, so this is their first time having to make the difficult decisions over what must be cut and deferred to contain spending. The learning curve is steep and the problems are not simple. For example, deciding to defer the reconstruction of a road not only impacts the roads budget, but may also change the sewer separation budget, the water line replacement budget and, if there is a signalized intersection, the traffic controller budget. Part of what is cut may be subsidized by Provincial or Federal grants, so the savings may be limited and the loss of grant income significant.
Furthermore, some changes reduce tax pressures, but others do not. An example of this is the purchase of new equipment to replace old: money may have been set aside for some years to build up to the purchase price of a new vehicle this year, so cancelling the purchase of a dump truck for $70,000 (whose cost is coming out of a reserve fund) may have no impact on this year’s taxes, while cancelling the purchase of a pick-up truck for $35,000 may reduce taxes by only $10,000.
Finally, while saving $1000 here and $2500 there is a good thing, in a corporation whose taxes amount to around $20,000,000 it takes a savings of about $200,000 to prevent a 1% rise in taxes and about $500,000 to stop a 2.5% tax hike. $1000 and $2500 just won’t cut it.
The proposed budget contains line items that are funded in various ways. Since your concern is what money must be raised from taxes, consider the following components of this year’s taxes over which council can exert little or no control:
• Police Services: $1,626,000
• Debt Service: $158,000
• Wages and Salaries: $9,220,000
• Employee Benefits: $2,565,000
These are just a sample of the ‘big ticket’ items that cannot be paid for other than with tax money.
So, the decision municipal council must consider as they attempt to control tax increases amounts to answering the question, ‘what can we do without’. Can a service be cut (along with the employee who delivers that service)? Can a project be delayed until more money is available? The whole thing boils down to doing the least harm to the fewest in order to contain spending.
Vendors are wanted with limited space available
• If you are interested in selling your fresh produce, eggs, etc.
• If you are a flea market vendor
• If you want to have your yard sale indoors
• Spaces available in 10 foot sections
• Contact below for space, dates and application forms Farmer’s Market will be held at the south end of the Comber Fair Grounds in the newest barn which now has a cement floor Phone 519-825-4574
Fax 519-825-3900
Email: bob_hornick@intlfrt.com
Knox Presbyterian Auxiliary: active in the community and beyond
The April meeting of the Margaret Ramsay Missionary Auxiliary of Knox Presbyterian Church was opened with an Easter service of worship led by Donna Takaki, Grace Sanders and Mary McKay. It dealt with the promises of Jesus of hope, peace, joy, security and salvation.
The study concerned the life of a Karen Christian refugee woman from Thailand who spent 12 years in a camp there where conditions were harsh and they were often hungry. Children were kidnapped and forced to serve in the army. Her husband was killed and she was separated from her sons. In 2006 the Canadian government agreed to welcome some refugees from Thailand. She was fortunate to find a sponsor in the Knox Presbyterian Church in Woodstock. They have helped her to settle into a new life and are presently helping her to reunite with her sons.
President Gina Turner led in repeating the purpose and in prayer. Rev. McAndless helped to make arrangements for the Mission Awareness Sunday to be held on May 15. A letter of thanks was read from the people at the Anishinabe Friendship Centre in
If you own or operate a business for any length of time, you’re bound to get ripped off by an employee at some point. It seems inevitable. It’s happened to me a few times. Mostly from lower-level employees who have access to cash.
Weese’s Weese’s Pieces Pieces
The most enjoyable rip-off was from an employee who used to buy me all these nice gifts and whose generosity knew no bounds. She would invariably get my name in the Christmas draw, and after the guy next to me got a box of Turtles from his Staff Santa, I’d open up one of a dozen gifts from my not-so-Secret Santa: golf stuff, hats, wine, nice candies, office ornaments, etc., etc. It was kind of embarrassing. I didn’t have the heart to tell this lady that she was going overboard in buying for the boss. As we discovered a number of weeks later, I should’ve been a wee bit suspicious.
I had to give her credit though. Most people whose hands are in the jar often keep all the cookies for themselves. Not this one.
No question, there are some brilliant crooks in our midst. Sadly, the brainpower and effort that they employ to cheat and steal could’ve been as easily rewarded in the honest pursuit of doing something good.
Then there’s the dumb-ass criminals. They’re fun because they often are harmless, unsuccessful, and good for a laugh. Check out some of these criminals…
Timothy James Chapek, 24, was charged with burglary after he broke into a house in Portland, Oregon, and took a shower. Unknown to him, the resident
Why I’m voting for Matt Daudlin
Winnipeg for the Auxiliary’s recent donation.
Members were reminded to bake for the bake table at the Indoor Yard Sale at Knox Hall on Saturday, May 7.
Dorothy Edwards made arrangements for the Rummage Sale on Saturday, May 28.
Shelley Desnoyers reported that she had delivered the Auxiliary’s monthly donation of food to the Ministerial Food Bank.
It was decided that the price of the Chili Luncheon would have to be raised to $7.00 because of the constantly increasing costs of meat and vegetables.
Marg Buschman reported on the recent Synodical meeting in Goderich which she and Carolyn Reid attended.
Carolyn announced that the party at Camp Kintail on June 28 would be reached by car instead of by bus. She is hoping to arrange a bus for a trip to Evangel Hall in Toronto in September.
The meeting closed with the Mizpah Benediction.
was in another part of the house and came, with his two German shepherds and a gun, to confront Chapek through the closed bathroom door while calling 911. Fearing the dogs and the gun, Chapek simultaneously dialed 911 himself, begging that officers come quickly and arrest him.
In March, Briton Luke Clay, 21, was sentenced to 8 months in prison by a Nottingham Crown Court judge for a home invasion. Luke and his brother fled the home empty-handed after the resident, Joan Parmenter, 79, knocked Luke down with one punch to the jaw.
Jose Demartinez, 35, was hospitalized in Manchester, New Hampshire, in January. With police in pursuit, he had climbed out a hotel window using tied-together bed sheets, but they came undone and he fell four stories.
Robert Michelson was arrested in Farmington, Connecticut, in February, after calling a 9-1-1 operator to inquire about the lawfulness of the marijuana plant he was growing. The operator informed him that it was illegal. All 9-1-1 calls are automatically traced, and Michelson was soon arrested.
Meet Louis Roesch who stepped down as the President of the Federation of Agriculture until after the election.
Louis Roesch: “I’m voting for Matt because he is the first person running for elected office to join the Kent Federation of Agriculture as an associate member, to attend our meetings, and to learn about agriculture and the issues we face.
Matt will go to Ottawa with a wealth of knowledge, present our case, and effect change for us, not to us. This is proven by his bringing Mr. Ignatieff, Wayne Easter, and others to our farms and ensuring the inclusion of a platform developed by farmers here in the Liberal Party’s national agriculture policy.
Matt Daudlin
It’s time to think about bedding plants
Spring is here, and many garden centres are open for business. Visit your favorite location and decide on the mixture and color of bedding plants for this summer and fall planting. Something that I do every year is purchase a plant I have never had before, whether it be a color or a new variety of annual or perennial. This will keep the flowerbeds looking different and will also help with new ideas for the next year’s planting. Plant your flowerbeds where you can see them, and don’t forget how the beds will look if viewed through windows
Gord Meuser of Leamington and Leslie Omstead of Wheatley, Ontario are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Emily Meuser, to David Mesiha, the son of Atef and Souzan Mesiha of Egypt. Emily is graduating with her Master’s of Biology from Simon Fraser University, in Burnaby, BC, and will be starting a law degree at Osgoode Hall in Toronto this coming fall. David earned his degree in Music Composition from the Faculty of Fine and Performing Arts at SFU and is currently working as a composer for film and theatre in Vancouver. The wedding will take place in Windsor on July 30th, 2011. The happy couple plans to live in Toronto after their marriage.
from inside the house and from outside decks, patios or other areas where they can be enjoyed while you are relaxing outdoors.
Before planting, decide on the shape and size of the flowerbed. For different designs I use a garden hose to outline a shape, then trench along the outside of the hose with a shovel. After the shape has been completed, use field stone, brick or flat landscape rock to help keep the mulch in and the grass out of the growing area.
Most annual bedding plants need well-drained soil. I always suggest preparing raised or mounded beds to successfully grow annual flowers. Raised beds are easy to make and once done make planting much easier.
With a wide selection of annual flowers, cool colours are good for close up viewing and warm colours are good for more dramatic displays when viewed from a distance. Around a warm area such as a cement deck, warm coloured flowers will make it seem even hotter. If you plant with plenty of cool green and pastel colors the same area won’t be any cooler, but it will seem so and will be more inviting.
Most bedding plants die by careless planting than by pests or diseases. If you want success with your bedding plants, then the planning and planting must be done properly. Always read the planting instructions in everything you purchase; the tags will explain everything from growing height and sunlight requirements to blooming.
Most transplanting stress is caused by lack of moisture. Be careful when removing the plant from their small pot or growing cell, or you will destroy many of the microscopic root hairs which are responsible for water intake to the
519-982-0121bea@prudentialselect.ca
plant. It is always best to plant either in the early morning or late afternoon for less stress on the plant. Never plant in the middle of the day in hot weather.
Water the plants in the morning and evening for the first few days. Avoid watering in the bright hot sun. This will cause scorching to the leaves, as the water droplets act as a magnifying glass.
When planting your garden, don’t try to complete your entire area in one weekend. Space your planting over several weeks – this helps not only the stress on the plants, but also on yourself.
Bill Plumb is a 5th generation horticulturist. He started his journey as an independent grower and wholesaler in 1971, joining the family business in Leamington going back to his father, uncle and grandfather to 1922. During that time he developed multiple retail flower and garden centres including a landscaping company with his brother. After selling that part of the business, Bill continued growing seedlings and potted nursery stock, developing a successful mail order business. Email: bpmarketing24@yahoo.ca.
Cindy’s expands into Cindy’s Too on Seacliff
One of Kingsville’s most popular and award winning destinations has just gotten better!
In addition to adding 25 more paved parking spaces, including bus parking, Cindy’s Home & Garden has expanded and opened a whimsical new store, “Cindy’s Too”, located on the same property.
The owner’s former home has now been completely transformed into a true destination for kids of all ages! Enjoy a selection of premium hand-scooped ice cream, fresh fudge, specialty coffees, cold drinks, and more. You can bring the whole family and enjoy a treat while sitting under a huge maple shade tree outdoors or indoors underneath an array of mini hot air balloon replicas. Cindy’s has also expanded your shopping experience too! Cindy’s Too also offers an array of giftware, kitchen gadgets, and just plain fun stuff! When you’re heading to the Kingsville area be sure to spend some enjoyable time at Cindy’s Home and Garden, 585 Seacliff Drive just east of Kingsville. For the full story on Cindy’s visit www.cindysgarden.com
Wheatley Harbour in need of emergency dredging
By Sheila McBrayne
It happens at least once a year and as many times as four, but Wheatley Harbour is in immediate need of a dredging.
“It’s the worst I’ve ever seen it,” said Wheatley Harbour Master Ken Snider who has been Harbour Master since 1979.
“Right now the water level is about 4 feet and boats are touching coming in,” said Snider. “This reoccuring problem happens every time there’s a strong northeast wind like we had last weekend and Tuesday,” he said. It creates a build up of sand on the east side of the east pier.
“There was only one year in the last 12 that we didn’t have to dredge and one year it was dredged four times,” said Snider. At a cost of approximately $40,000 per dredge, Snider is hopeful for a solution.
Officials with Fisheries and Oceans Canada commissioned a report back in 2003 which made three recommendations concerning the positioning of the breakwall which seems to channel the sand into the mouth, but the recommendations have not been implemented.
Snider said the 2003 Shoreplan Engineering study for small craft harbour cited the breakwall, built in 1977, as the problem. The first recommendation was to extend the breakwall into the shore. The second solution was to extend the breakwall to the east pier. The third option was extending it to east pier and hook it into the lake.
Snider believes the first recommendation would be the best option. “Until
they do something with the breakwall, we’ll have to keep dredging the harbour out every year... It’s not a problem that’s going to go away or fix itself,” said Snider.
Emergency dredging at east pier is expected to begin this week.
Spring Open House Tour weekend
The Leamington Arts Centre Artist Market is one of the stops on the 2nd annual Spring Open House Tour on Saturday, April 30 and Sunday, May 1. Times are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.
The Spring Tour includes seven locations with some great and unique gifts and collectibles – everything from arts, crafts, antiques, home décor, flowers and more!
The Arts Centre will feature an Indoor Artist Market both days from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., with several artists selling their unique handcrafted artwork in the two newly renovated galleries. The Artist Market will feature jewellery, photography, painting, stained glass and more. There will also be raffle prizes, gift baskets and more to be won.
Other stops on the Spring Tour include Setterington Gifts & Books of Faith, Simona’s Flowers & Home Accents, There’s No Place Like Home Antiques, There’s No Place Like Home Country Flea Market, Finders to Keepers Antiques and Wheatley Harbour Flowers & Gifts.
Wheatley Harbour Master Ken Snider points at one of the photos which shows how the harbour has changed over the years.
Northeast winds last week have filled in the east side of the east pier with sand.
LDSS Math students best in Essex County
Area elementary schools compete in badminton tourney
On Tuesday, April 18th the area’s Regional Badminton Tournament was held in Kingsville. All of the 9 area public schools attended. Each school sent a team of 16 players who competed in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. Mixed doubles were held at Kingsville Public School. Pictured above, from the left, are four of the winning mixed doubles pairs from Leamington area schools: Frank and Emily, 4th place, Mount Carmel-Blytheswood Public School; John and Alisha, 3rd place bronze medal, Jack Miner P.S.; Brandon and Olivia, 2nd place silver medal, Mount Carmel-Blytheswood
P.S.; Chelsey and Ty, 1st place gold medal, Gore Hill
P.S. (Submitted Photo)
LDSS can boast about having the top grade 9 math students in the county.
Once again the Leamington District Secondary School math club experienced an extremely successful contest season.
The grade 9 students finished second overall in the zone. They were second only to Vincent Massey S.S. – a gifted school located in the City of Windsor. Of all county schools – public and Catholic – no one came close to Leamington’s scores. The grade 9 team consists of Isaac Wiebe, Billy Hiebert, Eric Koop, Alexandria Jeffers, Washington Dawson and Travis Fehr.
The grade 10 students tied for 8th place in their division and the grade 11s placed 11th. Way to go, Lions!
LDSS math club students emerged the top in the county in this year’s math contest season. Pictured are, front row left to right: Alexandria Jeffers, Washington Dawson, Travis Fehr. Back row: Isaac Wiebe, Billy Hiebert, Eric Koop. (Submitted photo)
Raising money for Cop Camp
Leamington OPP officers were kept busy all day Thursday, April 21 packing groceries at the Real Canadian Superstore in Leamington. Donations were accepted for the Cop Camp, an annual event involving 80 students from elementary schools across Essex County who attend and benefit from a week of directed and supervised activities. Cop Camp teaches the importance of teamwork along with positive life skills.
Photocopied License Plate Tag Draws Attention
On April 19, Leamington OPP officers observed a white Jeep Cherokee on Donald Avenue with the validation tag photocopied and attached to the rear plate with tape. The driver, a 41-year-old Leamington man, failed to provide ownership and insurance for the vehicle. The driver was charged with numerous offences including: failure to provide a breath sample, failure to surrender permit for motor vehicle, defacing validation tag, driving a motor vehicle with no licence, and operating a motor vehicle without insurance.
Leamington Man Faces Charges
On April 18, Kingsville OPP conducted a vehicle stop on County Road 29, Kingsville. The driver, a 29-year-old Leamington man, was charged with driving with over 80 mgs of alcohol, driving while disqualified, and using a plate not authorized for the vehicle. He was released on a Promise to Appear with a court date of May 10, 2011.
OPP Conducts Road Safety Campaign
Essex County OPP conducted a Road Safety Campaign from April 22-26. Essex County OPP officers are working to save lives and prevent injuries on Essex County roadways caused by impaired driving, aggressive driving behaviours and the noncompliance of occupant restraints.
The OPP is committed to reducing the number of roadway injuries and saving lives on Ontario’s highways, trails and waterways through it’s proactive and sustainable approach to traffic safety directed at high-risk behaviours which are the major factors in fatal and serious injury collisions.Some motorists still don’t realize that they are placing their lives and those of their passengers, including children, at risk by drinking and driving, driving aggressively and by not using seat belts or child restraint systems.
The traffic campaign proactively raises the motoring public’s awareness of the importance of safe driver behaviour and supports the long-term goal of reducing fatal and serious injury collisions and making Canada’s roadways the safest in the world.
Windsor Man Charged with Sexual Offences
On April 21, Lakeshore OPP interviewed two victims alleging they were sexually assaulted by their gymnastic coach. A 22-year-old Windsor man has been charged and released on 5 counts of sexual offences. Two female young persons have come forward reporting that they were sexually assault by the male coach between 2008 and 2011. The suspect was employed as a gymnastics coach at fitness establishments in the City of Windsor. Over time, the accused befriended the teenage girls and then arranged to meet them in a location in Essex County. The accused is no longer affiliated with these organizations and the offences took place outside of the fitness centres.
The man has been charged with two counts of sexual assault, two counts of invitation to sexual touching, and one count of sexual interference.
The accused has been released on a Promise to Appear and an Officer’s Undertaking and is scheduled to appear in Windsor court on May 17, 2011. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Essex County Crime Unit 519-723-2491, your local police service or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
OPP raise $13,000 for Cop Camp
Landin Martin wasn’t too sure about having OPP Auxiliary officer Charlie Abdul-Massib
pack his groceries. OPP officers and civilian volunteers from Leamington, Kingsville and Tecumseh raised a total of $13,000 in tips.
help
(SUN Photos)
Kingsville connection spotlighted in 1905 auto race
By Andy Comber
When Veronica Brown decided to research the families connected to her historic home in Kingsville, she had no idea it would lead her to a famous auto race across the United States in 1905.
Brown was the featured speaker at the annual meeting of the Essex County Historical Society at the Essex Railway Station.
Looking for information on the original owner of her historic home, Curtis Green, Brown visited the library of the Harrow Early Immigrant Research Society. Scanning the archives of the Kingsville Reporter she discovered a reference about Milford Wigle, the husband of Green’s sister Anna Laura, having taken part in the first U.S. transcontinental auto race.
“I just had to find out more,” Brown says. “I just became fascinated by this story.”
Brown says the auto race was organized in 1905 to promote the expansion of the west and encourage the United States government to begin development of a network of roads across the continent. It pitted two Oldsmobile curved dash runabouts in a race from New York City to Portland, Oregon, to open the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition.
Milford Wigle, who had moved to Detroit to work for the Olds Motor Works, was selected to be the mechanic and co-driver with Dwight Huss in a car named “Old Scout”, says Brown. The other car, Old Steady, was driven by Percy Megargel and Barton Stanchfield.
“The winners got a $1,000 in gold and the other team got to keep the car, whatever shape it was in,” Brown says. “The race started on May 8, 1905, with the hope they had missed the spring rains – but they hadn’t.”
“The cars were singlecylinder, tiller-steered, chain-driven and watercooled,” she says. “They even reached speeds of 15 miles-per-hour.”
Brown says the cars weighed 650 pounds and sold for $650, giving way to the expression that they “cost a dollar a pound.”
Traveling the established roadways in the eastern states, the two automobiles stayed close together, Brown says. Things proved more difficult in the west, where many of the roadways were mere trails, still found with the ruts left by the wheels of covered wagons. After reaching Omaha, Nebraska, Old Scout took the lead and never gave it up.
“There weren’t a lot of good stretches, however,” Huss recorded one day in Wyoming. “We drove 18
hours, forded 5 streams and made a total of 11 miles.”
Brown says both teams suffered serious setbacks in the journey. On one occasion, Old Scout went down an embankment and bent an axle, Brown says. “The wheels were on a 15 degree angle.”
In the west, sagebrush proved to be one of the biggest problems for both cars, constantly clogging the radiators, which were located underneath the vehicles, Brown says. Old Steady
suffered a serious setback when the wrong type of oil was added, causing the engine to seize.
Wigle and Huss with Old Scout were the first to reach Portland, making the trip in 44 days, 40 of them driving.
After the auto race, Wigle was involved in a number of automobile ventures, eventually retiring in Florida, Brown says. He was a friend of Henry Ford. Wigle passed away in 1964 at the age of 90.
Veronica Brown of Kingsville told the story of Milford Wigle, a Kingsville native who took part in the first U.S. transcontinental auto race in 1905. He is pictured on the screen with the winning car “Scout” at a recent presentation to the Essex County Historical Society.
(A. Comber Photo)
“Together We Can”: Meat canning project 2011 a huge success
By Allison Siddall
Operations were in high gear last Wednesday, one of the days in a 4-day stop when the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) mobile canner was in town to can turkey meat to send to those in need around the world. Turkey meat is a high source of protein, which is a missing component in so many diets overseas. Canning was done April 18-20, with April 21 set aside for cleanup.
The Meat Canner Leamington Committee is made up of local churches which include Anglican, Catholic, Latter Day Saints, Lutheran, Mennonite, Pentecostal and United. The project is completely funded by donations from local churches, businesses and individuals.
This year the Committee faced a couple of tough challenges. First, the fundraising goal to complete the turkey
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canning project went up from $70,000 last year to $80,000 this year, according to Tina Quiring of the Meat Canner Leamington Committee. The second problem the Committee faced was the availability of turkey thighs, which were harder to get this year than they have been in the past. With the downturn in the economy, people are purchasing the cheaper cuts rather than opting for the choicer breast meat, which has led to a higher demand for the dark meat at a higher price – up over $1 per pound more. It was questionable at one point whether the Committee would be able to get the amount of meat required for this year’s canning. Albeit at a higher price, the Committee was able to get the meat they needed and the project went ahead as it has every year locally since 1999.
Over 500 volunteers are needed to process, can and pack the 30,000 pounds of turkey thighs. Strict sanitary conditions are enforced, and there are qualified inspectors on-
site monitoring each step – from the mixing of the meat to checking the seams on the cans once the process is complete. In addition to working in the mobile canner, numerous members of the churches involved take turns providing sandwiches, snacks and refreshments to all.
Although there is a tremendous amount of hard work accomplished in a short timeframe, it is accompanied by much laughter, singing and chatting, and it is obvious that this is also a labour of love for those involved.
This year’s effort yielded 16,377 cans of turkey meat, which will be sent to a warehouse before being shipped to the final destination.
The annual Meat Canner Leamington project is a true community effort comprised of people from many different religions and backgrounds. Their motto is “Together We Can”, and the Committee and volunteers have proven once again that together they certainly can!
Volunteers from local high schools can, pack and load 16,377 cans, or 30,000 pounds of turkey meat. (SUN Photo)
Fireplace Bar & Grill and Talbot Trail Inn & Suites opening in May
By Sheila McBrayne
It’s taken more than a year and a half, but Leamington’s old Manery Motel has been completely renovated into the all new Fireplace Bar & Grill and Talbot Trail Inn & Suites.
The new 65-seat steakhouse restaurant is expected to open May 1st, or as close to that date as suppliers will allow, according to the restaurant’s new General Manager Thair Bihnam who is excited for the opening, along with owners Sam Elias Jr. and Sr.
“We will be known for our quality steaks and world famous broasted chicken... Everything will be homemade by our chef,” said Bihnam about the Fireplace Bar & Grill. The restaurant will also feature local and internal wines for meal pairings.
The Fireplace will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The Talbot Trail Inn & Suites is a remodel of Leamington’s oldest motel, the Manery. “It was a shell; just four walls, not even four walls, they’re new too... You must come in and see it now,” said Bihnam.
The Talbot Trail Inn & Suites features 21 units fully furnished with all the luxuries and amenities of a fivestar motel, including jacuzzi suites, free Wi-Fi and free long distance calling.
Owner Sam Elias Sr. has been in the
Millwright & Welder
produce business since 1962 and has operated Leamington’s Citrus Sam’s for the past 20 years. Sam Elias’ many years as a respected businesman, along with the expertise of his business partner and son Sam Elias Jr., is a winning combination. “We’ve hire all local people for the construction and to work here... creating local jobs,” said Sam Sr.
“Leamington is beautiful and we want tourists to come and enjoy all the area has to offer... We also want to provide a quality dining option for the people of Leamington and area,” added Sam Sr.
Thair Bihnam, GM of Fireplace Bar & Grill and Talbot Trail Inn & Suites
The luxurious front lobby. (SUN Photos)
“Get on the Bus!” fundraisers will support 4-H Ottawa trip
The Essex County 4-H is initiating several ambitious fundraising events over the next several months to raise funds to cover the cost of sending members to Ottawa for Canada Day. 4-H want everyone to “Get on the Bus!” and the goal is to have every member wishing to attend be able to do so with minimal expense. Members will be helping out with the fundraisers in order to earn their trips! Here are some of the upcoming events:
• May 4 from 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at Pizza Hut in Leamington. Come in for dinner and help Essex County 4-H send the members to Ottawa! Ten percent of registered sales will be donated by Pizza Hut to 4-H. Let your server know you’re there to support 4-H!
• June 10 from 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Fundraiser dinner at Harrow Fair Building. Firehouse Catering is doing pasta and pulled pork sandwiches. Tickets are $15 for adults, kids under 5 are $7.50.
• June 25 at 8:00 a.m. Car wash, BBQ and bake sale at Home Hardware Essex.
• July 23 Hawaiian Luau at the Harrow Fair Building, pig roast, live auction. Get out your Hawaiian shirts and get ready to hula!
The Churches of Leamington and District Welcome You
ANGLICAN
St. John The Evangelist
60 Erie Street N., Leamington 519-326-3111
Sunday Worship Services
8:30 & 10:30 a.m.
St. Mary’s Church
East West Road, Pelee Island
1st & 3rd Sundays from June to September at 10 a.m.
Calvary Church North Shore Road, Pelee Island 1st & 3rd Sundays from October to May at 10 a.m.
BAPTIST
Calvary Baptist Church 475 Bevel Line Road, Leamington 519-326-0876
Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.
First Baptist Church
3 Fox Street, Leamington 519-326-4372
Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m.
CONGREGATIONALIST
Faith Everlasting Congregational Church 589 Hwy 77, Leamington 519-322-2994
Sunday Worship 11 a.m. L
220 Erie St. N., Leamington 519-322-1644
Saturday Services:
Bible Study 9:30 am Worship 11:00 am
LUTHERAN
St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
311 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-3966
Sunday Worship Services
9:30 a.m. (German), 10:30 a.m. (English)
MENNONITE
Faith Mennonite Church
269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-6391
Sunday Worship Services
10:50 a.m. (Summer 10 a.m.)
Leamington Evangelical Mennonite Mission Church 1408 Deer Run Rd, Leamington 519-326-9734
Sunday Worship Services
9:15 a.m. (German), 10:45 a.m. (English)
Leamington Evangelical Mennonite Church 108 Mersea Rd 3, Leamington 519-322-9915
Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.
Leamington United Mennonite Church 78 Oak Street East, Leamington 519-326-2727
Sunday Worship 9:45 a.m.
Summer Worship Services
9:30 a.m. (German), 10:15 a.m. (English)
Meadow Brook Fellowship 219 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-326-3605
Sunday Worship Services
9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.
North Leamington United Mennonite Church 625 Mersea Rd 6, Leamington 519-326-7928
Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m.
South Point Community Church 55A Talbot St. W., Leamington 519-322-1858
Sunday Gatherings 10 a.m.
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Iglesia La Buena Semilla 269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-733-0342
Sunday Worship 6:30 p.m.
Leamington District Memorial Hospital
194 Talbot St. W., Leamington 519-326-2373, Chaplain’s Office ext. 4443
PENTECOSTAL
FGT Family Church
285 Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-322-2316
Sunday Worships 9:15 & 11 a.m.
Leamington Christian Centre 98 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-322-1504
Sunday Worship Services 10:30 a.m.
English/Spanish 6:30 p.m.
Walk to Fight Arthritis!
Templo Christiano De Leamington
39 Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-325-9654
Sunday Worship Services 3 p.m.
Mount Zion Full TabernacleGospel
6 Mill Street, Leamington 519-252-0031
Sunday Worship 7:30 p.m.
United Pentecostal Church
312 Erie St. St., Leamington 519-326-7056
Sunday Worship Services 11 a.m.
PRESBYTERIAN
Knox Presbyterian Church
58 Erie St. S., Leamington 519-326-4541
Sunday Worship Services 11 a.m.
ROMAN CATHOLIC
St. Michael’s Parish
29 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-326-2643
Sunday Masses:
9 a.m., 11 a.m., 7:30 p.m.
Sunday Spanish Mass 2:30 p.m. (February to November)
St. Joseph’s Church
310 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-2643
Saturday Mass 5 p.m.
Sunday Masses: 9 a.m. (Italian, English), 11 a.m. (Portuguese, English)
St. Anthony’s Parish (Maronite Rite)
280 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-322-2282
Sunday Masses 9:30 & 11 a.m. (Lebanese, English)
SALVATION ARMY
The Salvation Army Citadel 88 Setterington Street Leamington 519-326-4901
Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.
UNITED CHURCH
OF
Leamington United Church 9 John Street, Leamington 519-326-9461
Sunday Worship Services 10:30
Arthritis is the leading cause of long-term disability in Canada, affecting more adults than cancer, heart disease, respiratory conditions, visual impairments and spinal trauma combined.
In one way or another, everyone has been touched by this debilitating and painful disease. You may be living with one or more of the over 100 different types of arthritis; you may be the parent of a child who has been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis; or your best friend may struggle with daily restrictions caused by rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
On Sunday, May 15, people from all Essex County will come together to raise funds for this very important cause when the Arthritis Society again hosts the Walk to Fight Arthritis. This event is your chance to fight back against a disease that affects the lives of millions of Canadians every day.
Walking is an activity in which everyone can participate. It’s great opportunity to register as an individual or to form a team and get your friends, co-workers and/or the whole family involved in this 1 km or 5 km non-competitive event at Malden Park Visitor’s Centre, 4200 Malden Rd., Windsor. Registration is at 8:00 a.m. and the walk begins at 10:00 a.m. Prizes for participants and a barbecue will follow the walk. To register or to sponsor a participant, visit www.walktofightarthritis.ca, or call Elaine at 519-944-2619.
Corodinator.
(SUN Photo)
Talent show will help make summer brighter for children with disabilities
By Andy Comber
Local children and teens with disabilities will be enjoying a busy and activity-filled summer thanks to funds raised at the 1st Annual Windsor-Essex County Loves Talent Showcase, held Feb. 3 at L’Essor High School in Tecumseh.
A partnership between Ensemble and Community Living, the talent showcase raised $5,000. The proceeds were presented to Community Living Essex County, Apr. 19 in Essex. Andrew Banar of Group Hug Apparel was also on hand presenting $500, the proceeds from the sale of his “Rock On” T-shirts at a variety of events.
The talent showcase featured over 70 performers ranging in age from 6 to 20 years old, including dancers, singers, bands, pianists, a violinist and a karate demonstration.
The much-needed funding will help provide support and services for children and teens with a disability, ensuring they have an active and involved summer in the community, said Jackie Barraco, a parent consultant with Ensemble.
“We’re very pleased with the community support and involvement with the talent showcase,” she said. “We are already making plans for next year’s event.”
Right To Life Silent Walk & Vigil
The Leamington Area Right To Life held a silent walk and vigil on Sunday, April 17. The cold temperatures and strong west winds did not deter a hardy group of over 100 prolife supporters from making their way from the South Point Community Church to Leamington District Memorial Hospital. The walk marked Respect for Life Week, an annual event sponsored by Leamington Area Right To Life. Pictured above, in lieu of a wreath Allison Feltz (centre) prepares to place a memorial shrub on the grounds at Leamington Hospital. She is accompanied by Henrietta O’Neill (left) and Marg Feltz (right).
• “The most important part about UMEI is the deep faith that is intertwined with everything to do with UMEI.
• “UMEI strengthens students spiritually, emotionally, physically, and mentally all in four years.
• “Our teachers have encouraged us to become passionate, loving people and to become our true selves”.
“There isn’t any other school like UMEI!”
Donations totalling $5,500 were presented April 19 to Community Living Essex County for teen and children’s summer programs. Pictured from left to right are Karen Pickle and Andrew Banar of Group Hug Apparel, Karen Charette and Patty Neufeld of CLEC, and Lisa Raffoul and Jackie Barraco, parent consultants with Ensemble. (Andy Comber photo)
Point Pelee National Park ready for spring birding season
The birders are coming, the birders are coming!
From April 30 to May 23 the spring migration at Point Pelee National Park celebrates the Festival of Birds.
Pelee National Park is the place where birds and birders meet. Lush forest meets expansive wetlands, offering up opportunities to find a wide variety of species.
This year the Park staff is excited about the renewal and improvements to park visitor facilities and services, including the new shuttle system.
This year, Parks Canada is celebrating its centennial as the world’s first national park service! Join in the celebration and take the “100 Species” challenge and receive a commemorative pin.
By the end of April, the first wave of songbirds arrives. The best time to see the greatest diversity of songbirds is the first three weeks of May. Forty-two of the 55 regularly occurring warbler species in North America have been recorded at Point Pelee.
Festival of Birds
Join an experienced hike leader for a two-hour hike you’ll never forget. Morning and afternoon hikes leave from the Visitor Centre and focus on songbirds. Twilight hikes explore the DeLaurier Trail, with the chance to view the courtship display of the American Woodcock. New this year is the North End Birding Hike. Meet at the Cattail Café and explore the Marsh and the north end of the park. Pre-registration at www.friendsofpointpelee.com. Book early as space is limited to 12 participants/hike. You can also book by calling 519-326-6173 or 1-888-707-3533.
Guest Speakers
This year there are two special guest speakers. Presentations will run 45 minutes to 1 hour and will be held in the Visitor Centre. Alvaro Jaramillo will be the guest speaker on Friday, May 6 at 6:30 p.m. Join Alvaro, one of North America’s top birders, as he explains “How in the world did they get here? A birder’s view of the how and why of bird migration.” The presentation is $12/person and you must pre-register.
Saturday, May 7 at 7 a.m. enjoy a special bird hike at the tip led by Alvaro. Space is limited to 12 participants, so book your spot today! There is also a Migration Workshop for $25/person.
The second guest speaker is Donald Kroodsma who will be featured on Saturday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m.
Don Kroodsma will give an intimate look into the “Singing Life of Birds”, sharing his passion and knowledge of birdsong. This presentation is $12/person and you must be pre-registered. On Sunday, May 15 at 5:30 a.m. join Don for a special hands-on workshop. Space is limited to 20 participants, so book your spot today! The workshop is $25 person.
At left is the new floating boardwalk over the marsh and pictured above is the new transit system that’s ready for the influx of birders and visitors. (SUN Photos)
Southpoint Primo wins Atom house league championship
Southpoint Primo defeated the Harrow Blue 2-1 in a shootout to win the Atom House League Championship. Team members are, front row left to right: Jared Koop, Alexander Stewart, Tristian Edmondson, Connie Wiebe, Darigan Chambers. Middle: Natalie Edmondson, Damon Palicuk, Ashton Friesen, Curtis Driedger, Coach Wayne Palichuk. Back: Trainer Dennis Edmondson, Josh Thibodeau, Steven Wiebe, Nathan Toews, Derek Keck, Assistant Coach Doug Toews. Congratulations Primo, and way to go for a successful hockey season! (Submitted photo)
Western Ontario Girls Hockey All-Star Team
Pictured here are the girls representing the Southpoint Stars Midget Girls who played in the Western Ontario Girl’s Hockey League All-Star game recently in Strathroy. Pictured from left to right are Jessica Gray, Carleigh Manning, Dave Manning (Coach), Jillian Iles and Shailyn Waites. (Photo Submitted)
Attention baseball, soccer, and other summer sports teams, the Leamington Southpoint Sun wants your scores, pictures and game reports. Email to sun@southpointsun. ca
Skate Wheatley wraps up season with banquet, awards
REC ROUND-UP REC ROUND-UP
The Complex has youth programs galore:
• There are several Kirk Bowman Hockey Camps being offered this Spring: ages 8-10 years and 11-13 years on Saturday, April 30; Wednesday, May 4; and Saturday, May 7. The cost is $60 per player for these training and conditioning hockey camps. Register now!
• Youth swim/gym/skate pass. Let the kids be active.
• Book your child’s birthday party, either swimming and pizza party or skating and pizza party. Your house stays clean and the kids have loads of fun at a Complex Activity Party!
• NEW! Youth Triathlon Camp for children ages 6-11 years offered on June 3, 4, 5. Register in advance.
Spring Shape-Up Special: A 3-month membership on sale now during the month of April for $115 plus HST. Come join the growing numbers of people who are working out at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex.
Student Memberships: Annual membership for students is very affordable, plus we have a summer membership special on sale now till May 31 – four months for $115 plus HST for students home from university or college this summer.
Urban Poling Workshop on April 30 led by Manager of Recreation Amanda Smith on the new Leamington Trail (adjacent to the Complex parking lot). Register in advance, as equipment is limited.
• We’ve got treadmills, elliptical trainers, the (dreaded) stair master machines, spinning bikes and recumbent bikes to get your cardio rate elevated and your blood pressure down!
• We’ve got Hammer Strength free weights and Apex and Life Fitness selectorized weight machines to help you tone and trim, build muscle, and to increase your metabolism and burn more calories!
• We’ve got recreational lane swims, AquaFitness and
es, and Masters Swim Program.
It’s a proven fact
It’s
Skate Wheatley held their end-of-the-year skating banquet at the Rhine Danube Club in Leamington on April 15. The event was well attended and everybody had their fill of pasta and salad. Many awards were handed out to all of the great skaters who had a very successful and fun-filled year. This season was very busy and rewarding for the club. Skate Wheatley would like to thank everyone for all the volunteer hours they put in, the many sponsors who support them, the parents who worked tirelessly, and especially the figure skaters who make it such a great club. Everyone is already looking forward to next year.
More time to save money on hydro
Hydro One will be changing its off-peak period for time-of-use hydro consumption effective Sunday, May 1. Off-peak (the lowest rate charged by Hydro One) will now begin at 7 p.m. and run until 7 a.m. The change adds two more hours of off-peak time. These hours are for summer weekdays (May 1st to October 31st).
Weekends and holidays are off-peak hours all day. Mid-peak pricing begins at 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The on-peak hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Every little bit helps to try and save money on hydro bills.
Pictured above are the skaters who volunteered their time as Program Assistants on Saturday mornings. They were acknowledged at the end-of-the-year banquet.
Stars bring home third in Brampton tournament
By Mackenzie Heyens
Friday, April 15, the Rhine Danube Southpoint Stars travelled to Brampton to play in the 2011 Brampton Candettes 44th Annual World’s Largest Female Hockey Tournament. Their first game of the weekend was against the North Halton Twisters. Despite the three-hour drive that morning, the Southpoint Stars started strong, taking their opposition by surprise. The game remained scoreless for the first period. The game changed when Shaylynn LeClaire scored the first goal of the tournament after 3 consecutive penalties with the assist by Kayla Di Schiavo. Unfortunately for the Stars, the Twisters scored a deflected screen shot to tie the game 1-1. The Southpoint Stars played their next game later that evening against the Scarborough Sharks. Despite the late night, the Stars started out strong as Jillian Iles scored in the first minute with the assists by Shailyn Waites and Jessica Gray. Less than 3 minutes later, Shaylynn LeClaire followed with the assist by Iles. With only 10 seconds left in the first, Iles scored her second goal with the assist by LeClaire and Waites. Entering the second period the Sharks became frustrated, causing the game to turn rough. Jessica Gray managed to score with a minute left in the second, despite the chaos. The third period began with a bang when Kayla Di Schiavo scored her first goal of the weekend less than a minute after the puck dropped with the assist by Karissa Ricci. Five minutes later Di Schiavo followed her first goal with another, assisted by Dana Peltier. LeClaire scored her second goal of the game just minutes later with the assists by Amanda Stasko and Gray. The final goal of the game went to Charlee Cabral with the assist by Iles. The final score of the game was 8-0 for Southpoint.
The next day, the Rhine Danube Southpoint Stars played Timmins. Needing the win to push them into first place and therefore earning a bye, the girls began the game a bit wary of their opposition. Entering the third period, the score was 1-0 for Timmins. Shaylynn LeClaire scored the first goal for the Stars 20 seconds later, with the assists from Shailyn Waites and Jillian Iles. Less than two minutes later Waites scored with the assist by Iles, giving Southpoint the upper hand. Timmins reciprocated, ending the game in a tie of 2-2.
Due to their tie earlier that morning, the Stars had to play another game that evening against the North Halton Twisters. After already playing the team the previous day, the girls knew what they were up against and were ready. After a few controversial calls, Shaylynn LeClaire still managed to score with the assist by Shailyn Waites. The rest of the game proved to be a challenge, the Stars having to beat both the opposition and the referees. Despite the obstacles though, the girls kept their composure and managed to score 2 more goals in the third period. Shailyn Waites scored both, with the assists by LeClaire and Dana Peltier. The final
score of the game was 3-0, with the Southpoint Stars advancing into the semi-finals.
The next morning, the Stars played the Hearst Ice Cats for the early semi-finals game. Knowing this game could potentially be their last of the season, the girls played with their entire hearts, laying it all on the line. Unfortunately, the Hearst Ice Cats scored to win the game 1-0. The Stars were sent home with third.
As one of the many senior players that will not be trying out again next year, I am proud to have shared my last year with these girls. Over the past four years, we have become much more than just a team – we’ve become a family. And this is how I will always feel towards them. I, personally, have learned so much from everyone on this team, as well as from our fabulous coaches. I would like to thank every player, coach, and parent for all their hard work and dedi-
cation. I will miss you all very much. Great season girls! Coach Keith would be very proud of our accomplishments! I am forever a Star – SPS.
Get ready for golf season with warmup golf stretches
Firstly, improving your flexibility will improve your swing mechanics. You’ll be able to get your body into key positions that allow you to make a more powerful and more repeatable golf swing.
Secondly, a golf stretching program will help you to make a fuller turn in the backswing, which will increase the power and carry of your shots (great flexibility is how relatively small players like Rory McIlroy and Rickie Fowler keep up with bigger and stronger Tour players).
Thirdly, good range of motion can help prevent golfrelated injuries and help you recover quicker if you do get injured.
And fourthly, improved flexibility can improve balance and body awareness – both of which can improve the coordiantion and consistency of your swing.
Warming Up Before You Stretch
Before starting your golf stretching routine, your body should be thoroughly warmed up.
The best time to perform these stretches is immediately after vigorous exercise such as a run or a golf strength workout.
However, if you’re going to complete the stretches at a separate time, then you should spend 5-10 minutes doing some form of activity that raises your heart rate and increases your body temperature.
Jogging/marching vigorously on the spot, star jumps and walking up and down a flight of stairs are good examples. Or if you own a piece of cardiovascular exercise equipment (treadmill, Stairmaster, stationary bike etc.), use that.
Optionally, you can perform some dynamic stretches, which are great for reducing muscle tightness. These stretches won’t increase your range of motion long term –that’s what the following golf stretching routine is for – but they will get you loose so that you get the most from the stretches.
Golf Stretching Program Guidelines
Before starting the golf stretching program, please read these important guidelines.
Complete this routine 3-4 times per week. Three stretching sessions per week is enough to increase flexibility, especially if you’re not currently following a stretching program.
You can stretch on consecutive days, but ideally try to spread the 3 sessions across the week.
Don’t perform this routine immediately before a game of golf. Instead, follow this golf warm up:
Each stretch should be held for approximately 30 seconds and completed twice. If you’re short on time, complete 1 stretch of 30 seconds or 2 stretches of 15 seconds.
Move slowly in and out of stretches without jerking or bouncing. You should move into a stretch until the muscle group feels slightly tight. That tightness should diminish as the stretch is held - if it gets tighter, stop the stretch.
Remember to breathe as you hold each stretch!
Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise programme and if you suffer from, or have suffered from in the past, any significant injuries or joint problems, please consult a qualified Physical Therapist first. Certain stretches may exacerbate an injury.
The more flexible you are, the less prone you may be to injuries such as strains and muscle tears.
There’s a simple logic behind this.
The golf swing is quite an explosive movement that can stretch muscles and joints beyond their normal range of movement – so the greater your flexibility, the further your body can stretch before it gets injured.
Over time, golf can have quite an unbalancing effect on the body. Certain muscle groups, joints and connective tissues are used more often than others. They become overly strong, placing weaker, neglected areas under inordinate strain. Or they become tight and have a knock-on effect on surrounding muscles and joints.
Golf isn’t the only culprit of course. Sitting for long hours behind a desk, for example, can have the same negative effect on our posture and musculoskeletal system.
Stretching helps to place our body back into alignment. Alongside a good strength training program, it helps to redress imbalances and improve posture. The net result?
A flexibility program can reduce the risk of back problems and chronic, overuse injury.
Which Muscle Groups Should Golfers Stretch
It’s always best to stretch as many muscle groups as time allows. However, when time is a premium, here are the muscle groups golfers should focus on in particular:
• Shoulders (including posterior/rear shoulder capsule)
• Upper back
• Lower back (particularly rotational flexibility)
• Abdominals/midsection (particularly rotational flexibility)
Hip flexors (responsible for raising the upper leg)
• Hamstrings
• Quadriceps
• Other muscle groups to stretch include: triceps, forearms, chest, glutes (buttocks), adductors (groin) and calves
Static Stretching
This involves stretching part of the body until a slight tightness is felt in target muscle group and then holding that position for a period of time.
A classic example of a static stretch is sitting with legs outstretched, feet together and bending forward to touch your toes. This statically stretches the hamstring muscles. Static stretching is a very effective way to increase your overall flexibility long-term. As a golfer, it will help you achieve all of the benefits discussed above.
Incidentally, static stretching is NOT suitable immediately prior to a round of golf – even though you’ll see a lot of golfers stretching on the first tee.
There’s quite a lot of evidence to show that static stretching before sport (including golf) has no effect on preventing injury and can actually reduce swing speed.
Back in the swing
By Dane Stanton
Golf is known as being one of the most relaxing sports or pastimes known to man, as it gives you an opportunity to get outside and enjoy the sun and fresh air as well as providing you with a good opportunity to get some exercise. There is another side to golf, however, and that is that it is a serious sport that many people play competitively and in some cases for vast amount of money. Therefore it is important for those people to improve their golf swing as much as possible.
Stance
Everything built well begins with a solid foundation. Your golf swing is no different. Therefore, when beginning to analyze your golf swing start by focusing on your stance.
With golf club in hand, take your normal stance and approach the ball as if you are going to take your swing. Then lay your driver down so that the shaft is touching the toes of your left and right shoe. This will reveal the direction of your feet in relationship to the pin that you are driving the ball towards.
If the golf club is not directly pointing towards the pin or your target, adjust the shaft of the club accordingly. Then reposition your feet so that the toes are touching the shaft of the club.
The next part of your stance addresses your shoulders and hips. They too should be completely in line or parallel with the golf club lying at your feet.
With this in mind, pick up your golf club and practice a few swings, keeping your shoulders and hips parallel to that imaginary line there at the base of your toes. Your golf swing should always reflect this rule of being parallel to the imaginary line directed towards your target.
Swing
The second step in analyzing your golf swing is taking note of the swing itself. Of particular help may be the assistance of a golfing partner to help you with the analyzing of your form.
Another option would be to video yourself and watch your golf swing in slow motion. Most professionals do this after every tournament they compete in.
The first thing to look at for your golf swing is your backswing. This is the first phase of your swing so the actual start of the swing should be even in nature and fluid.
Additionally, while your club is on the backward portion of the swing and overhead, hesitate for a very slight moment. Following that slight hesitation, let your downward golf swing flow in the same even nature towards the ball. It is important to remember that speed and forcefulness are not characteristics of a good golf swing.
Additionally, take note of your downward golf swing beginning from this upward position. Do you keep your wrists straight or is there a hint of wrist movement? It is recommended that the
movement of the wrists should take place just as the golf club is horizontal to the ground.
Contact
Thirdly and most importantly in analyzing your golf swing, when your club makes contact with the golf ball it is important to remember that you are not playing baseball. This means that the power to drive the golf ball should not be drawn from your arms and shoulders. The drive given to the ball should be drawn from your entire upper body as well as your legs, so therefore momentum should be the biggest driving force. Also, remember to follow the path of your golf club that was lying at your feet to position your stance. Your golf swing should stay parallel with the shaft of that club that was directed towards your target.
Follow Through
The last critical element in analyzing your golf swing is swinging through the drive. It is important when you have made contact with the ball that you continue for an additional five to six inches following in parallel the imaginary path of the golf club laying on the ground. Finally, complete the swing with that same fluid motion bringing the golf club to the opposite side of the body and above the head.
When this is completed you should be standing front on and facing the direction of which your ball is heading. Good luck!
Top Ten Best Golf Balls
The following is aimed at providing the average golfer with information about the balls they play with. Most players in the beginning don’t really notice or care what golf ball they use, but once you start playing regularly it tends to make a big difference.
1. Titleist Pro V-1 Star
These are supposesed to be the best golf balls on tour. Personally, I can’t hit them too far. These are made for golfers with at most a +10 handicap.
2. Callaway HX Red
The cover is made of mainly hexagons and some pentagons, which provides more surface area on the ball. Some golfers say this ball is too soft for their use, but personally it works well for me.
3. Callaway CB-1 Blue
A ball made for more spin on the green. A favorite for most golfers. Although it is expensive, it is a good ball
and fairly easy to hit. If you’re rich and you really want to get into golf, I suggest using these balls.
4. Top Flite XL 3000
A less expensive, high performance golf ball that’s very popular and easy to find around the golf course. If you aren’t too rich and just like to play golf, I recommend this ball.
5. Nike Feel Speed
Great stylish ball used by most juniors to knock a few strokes off their short game. Any amatuer can use it for the green. Not only is it an excellent putting ball, it also gets its distance in. A good overall ball.
6. Pinnacle Power Core
Straight Distance
Great cheap ball for anyone that wants to impress
his partners in the game of golf.
7. Nike Double C Distance
A great ball – Tiger Woods used it on tour a couple of times. Great to get your maximum distance on the golf course. If you have a powerful swing, I recommend this ball.
8. Titleist DT Distance
A very common ball you can find around the golf course or anywhere in a pro shop. A very hard ball that will last you at least two good rounds before it goes in the water... unlike most other balls, I don’t think this one is magnetic to water.
9. Pinnacle Gold Distance
A good ball for anyone just starting to play golf. They aren’t too expensive and don’t make you cry when they go into the woods. I recommend this ball for any beginners. 10. Lady Precept I have heard this ball is pretty good and felt it deserved a spot on this list. Good overall ball to use, whether you are playing for money or just out on a Sunday with friends. If you’re a guy and don’t feel comfortable using a woman’s golf ball, they make Precepts for men as well.
Golden Years mini golf
A field of 43 players met for mini golf on April 21 at Colasanti’s.
Team #12 – Cami Keith, Mike Binder and Moe Scratch –got the first place cash prize with their 242 strokes. Second place went to Teams #5 and #8 with 244 for players Bill Mayville, Marie Lasi and Barb Murphy, and Barb Arner, John Murphy and Julia Kos. Two shots back in third spot were Iggy Arner, John Vlodarchyk and Rose Taylor. Low rounds went to Iggy Arner with 40/36, followed by Julia Kos with her 41/36. Other under par tallies were 78s for Tom Hyatt, Bill Ward, Andy Orsini and Duane MacIntosh. 79s showed for Ralph Butler, Bill Mayville, Marie Lasi, Gerry Wilkinson, Frank Lasi, Mike Binder amd Moe Scratch. Rose Taylor and Art Sweet made it around with even par 80.
Holes-in-one were 4 by Iggy Arner, and 3 for Don Ribble, Eleanor Wilkinson, Art Sweet, Marie Lasi, Andy Orsini, Shirley Thiessen, Duane MacIntosh and Pete Daudlin. Two fell for Ralph Butler, Eleanor Brook, Bill Mayville, Julia Kos, John Murphy, Rose Taylor, Mike Binder, Frank Lasi and Kathy Bradley. Single aces dropped for Marg Ross, Linda Walsh, Mary Binder, Barb Murphy, Bill Taylor, Annie Mae Leslie, Tom Hyatt, Bill Ward, Barb Arner, Betty McManus, Gerry Wilkinson, Cami Keith, Moe Scratch, Wayne Reid, John Unrau and Neil Quick.
There are still 3 weeks left to play before Golden Years mini golf wraps up for the season. All are welcome to join the fun at Colasanti’s on Thursday mornings at 9:30.
OBITUARY
Donald King
Donald Joseph King, 74 years, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Wednesday, April 20, 2011.
Dear and devoted husband of Anne (Chobrda) for 49 years. Loving father of Tim and wife Priska, Darren and wife Lori, Carla King. Cherished grandfather of Erica, Claudia and Kevin. Dear brother of Betty Lamprecht and husband Joe. Special uncle to Craig and Jill.
Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631), on Friday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.
Funeral service to celebrate Don’s life was held from the funeral home on Saturday, April 23, 2011 at 11 a.m., followed by cremation.
As an expression of sympathy, donations made by cheque to the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated. Family and friends are invited to share their words of comfort and remembrance or make a charitable donation at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.
OBITUARY
Isobel Roberts
Isobel Brockie Campbell “Isobella” Roberts, 84 years, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 21, 2011 at Hotel Dieu Grace Hospital. Loving mother of Helen Prusac and husband Zvonko, John, the late Jim (December 2010), Tony and wife Debbie, Campbell and wife Lynn, Ron and wife Brenda, and Edith Roberts. Proud and cherished grandmother of 8 grandchildren. Dear sister of the late Bill Reid and wife Emily, the late Jim Reid and late wife Jean. Dear aunt to Ian, Jim, the late Lee, and Bill, all of Scotland. Always remembered by her dear and special friend Debbie Massong.
A graveside service to celebrate Isobella’s life was held at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery on Monday, April 25, 2011 at 11 a.m.
As an expression of sympathy, donations made by cheque to a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Family and friends are invited to share their words of comfort and remembrance at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.
Correction / Clarification
In the April 20th issue of the Southpoint Sun, an item in Talbot Trail Senior Golf News mistakenly said: “We will all deeply miss Barb Getty and Barb Irwin, Talbot Trail members.” It should have read Bob Irwin. Southpoint Sun staff apologizes for any inconvenience this may have caused.
DRIVERS WANTED
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Extensive paid travel, meal allowance, 4 weeks vacation & benefits pkg. Skills Needed - Ability to travel 3 months at a time Valid License High School Diploma or GED. Apply at www.sperry rail.com under careers, keyword Driver. DO NOT FILLIN CITYOR STATE.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
GreenGas.cc is 50 cent a liter zero emission fuel. You and I now pay $1.25 plus a liter for dirty tar gas. Mr. Harper has known about it for 2 years but avoids and ignores it. Some Conservative MPs want GreenGas.cc but Harper bullies them also. So we need to vote someone different than Conservative to be in Ottawa. You decide who is best in your area to get rid of Harper but please do not waste your vote. (Authorized by the agent for Green Gas)
AUTOMOTIVE
MOTOR VEHICLE dealers in Ontario MUSTbe registered with OMVIC. To verify dealer registration or seek help with a complaint, visit www.omvic.on.ca or 1-800-943-6002. If you're buying a vehicle privately, don't become a curbsider's victim. Curbsiders are impostors who pose as private individuals, but are actually in the business of selling stolen or damaged vehicles.
AUTOS FOR SALE
100% AUTO FINANCING APPROVAL- We can get you approved for an automobile no matter what your circumstances are. Drive a little and save a lot. Over 300 vehicles to choose from. Apply online www.gabies.ca. GABIES AUTO SALES, 250 Springbank Dr., London, ON, TollFree 1-888-474-8815 / 519-472-8815.
BUSINESS OPPS.
MATCO TOOLS IS LOOKING FOR FRANCHISEES IN YOUR AREA- Professional products with a complete Business System available to support you in becoming your own boss. Home-based business; Training & Support Programs. CALLTOLL-FREE 1-888-696-2826, www.gomatco.com.
80% COMMISSION TRAVELONLYhas 500 agents across Canada. Business opportunities with low investment, unlimited income potential, generous tax/travel benefits. Run your travel company, full-time, part-time from home. Register for FREE seminar, www.travelonly.ca, 1-800-6081117, Ext. 2020.
TAKE CONTROLOF YOUR FUTURE. Invest 10 hrs/wk and build a serious business. You guide and train - no sales, no inventory, no risk. Great income! www.fromgreen2green.com.
WWW.PREMIERSOLARINC.COM "Your Long Term Solar Partners" - System Sales/ Installations/Financing/Dealership. Start Making Money with the 'MicroFITProgram' TODAY! Call Now! Toll-Free 1-877-255-9580.
READYTO CHANGE your life? Reach your goals, Live your dreams. Work from home online. Real training and Support. Evaluate our system. www.ecosoul.ca.
HOME BASED BUSINESS. Established franchise network, serving the legal profession, seeks self-motivated individuals. No up-front fees. Exclusive territory. Complete training. Continuous Operational Advertising Support; www.lormit.com.
$$$ MAKE FASTCASH - Start Your Own Business - Driveway Sealing Systems, Possible payback in 2 weeks. Part-time, Full-time. CALL Today Toll-Free 1-800-465-0024. Visit: www.protectasphalt.com.
COMING EVENTS
HAVELOCK COUNTRYJAMBOREE, CANADA'S LARGESTLIVE COUNTRYMUSIC & CAMPING FESTIVALAug. 18-21/11. ANNOUNCING Martina McBride, Billy Currington, Joe Nichols and more, over 25 entertainers... TICKETS 1800-539-3353 www.havelockjamboree.com.
EMPLOYMENT OPPS.
CONCRETE FINISHERS. Edmonton-based company seeks experienced concrete finishers for work in Edmonton and Northern Alberta. Subsistence and accommodations provided for out of town work; John@RaidersConcrete.com. Cell 780-660-8130. Fax 780-444-7103.
HEAVYEQUIPMENTREPAIR in Slave Lake, Alberta requires heavy duty mechanic. Experienced apprentices may apply. Call Herb 780-849-0416. Fax resume to 780-849-4453.
FOR SALE
AFREE TELEPHONE SERVICE - Get Your First Month Free. Bad Credit, Don't Sweat It. No Deposits. No Credit Checks. Call Freedom Phone Lines Today Toll-Free 1-866-884-7464.
#1 HIGH SPEED INTERNET$24.95 / Month. Absolutely no ports are blocked. Unlimited Downloading. Up to 5Mps Download and 800Kbps Upload. ORDER TODAYAT www.acanac.ca or CALLTOLL-FREE: 1-866281-3538.
SAWMILLS - Band/Chainsaw - SPRING SALECut lumber any dimension, anytime. MAKE MONEYand SAVE MONEYin stock ready to ship. Starting at $1,195.00. www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT1-800-5666899 Ext:400OT.
DISCONNECTED PHONE? National Teleconnect Home Phone Service. No One Refused! Low Monthly Rate! Calling Features and Unlimited Long Distance Available. Call National Teleconnect Today! 1-866-443-4408. www.nationalteleconnect.com
FREE UNLIMITED LONG DISTANCE - Home Phone & Highspeed. You're Approved! No Deposits, No Credit Checks. CALLTalk Canada Home Phone Today! Visit www.talkcanada1.com or Toll-Free 1-866-867-8293.
VACATION/TRAVEL
ST. LAWRENCE RIVER CRUISES - World class cruising close to home. The hassle free way to travel. 2, 3, 5 or 6 nights in private Staterooms. Included: Shore excursions, great meals & nightly entertainment. TICO#2168740. 253 Ontario St., Kingston, 1-800-267-7868, www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.com.
SKILLED HELPWANTED
Do All Metal Fabricating in Estevan, Saskatchewan is currently hiring WELDERS1st, 2nd & 3rd year Apprentices, Journeymen or those with equivalent experience! Positions available immediately! Competitive Wages, Benefits & Apprenticeship Opportunities. Apply by Email: jhoward@doallmetal.com or Fax: 306-634-8389.
STEELBUILDINGS
DO-IT-YOURSELF STEELBUILDINGS PRICED FOR SPRING CLEARANCE - Ask about FREE DELIVERYto most areas! CALLFOR QUICK QUOTE and FREE BROCHURE - 1-800-6685111 ext. 170.
BUILDING SALE... Canadian Manufacturer
Direct. 25x40 $6,320. 30x40 $7,370. 35x50
$9,980. 40x80 $18,900. 47x100 $31,600. Ends optional. Many others. Pioneer Steel Manufacturers since 1980, 1-800-668-5422.
FINANCIALSERVICES
DEBTCONSOLIDATION PROGRAM. Helping Canadians repay debts, reduce/eliminate interest, regardless of your credit. Steady Income? You may qualify for instant help. Considering Bankruptcy? Call: 1-877-220-3328 FREE Consultation Government Approved, BBB Member.
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LEGALSERVICES
CRIMINALRECORD? Guaranteed Record
Removal. 100% Free Information Booklet. 1-8NOW-PARDON (1-866-972-7366). Speak with a Specialist - No Obligation. www.PardonServicesCanada.com. A+BBB Rating. 20+ Yrs Experience. Confidential. Fast. Affordable.
MOTORCYCLES
2009 Honda Goldwing GL1800, Red Trike, 1204km, New Motortrike Kit, loaded and ready to ride. New Trike Warranty. Only $39,900.00. Safetied, Mint Condition. Call 519-919-5535.
HELPWANTED
HOMEWORKERS get paid daily! Now Accepting: Simple Full/Part Time Data Entry & Online Computer Related Work is available. No fees or charges to participate. Start Today, www.ONWOC.com.
STARTTODAYFROM HOME, Company needs Both Men & Women, P/T& F/T, No Experience Needed. Your approval is instant and guaranteed. Get Details at: www.BasicOnlineWork.com.
MORTGAGES
AS SEEN ON TV - 1st, 2nd, Home Equity Loans, Bad Credit, Self-Employed, Bankrupt, Foreclosure, Power of Sale and need to ReFinance?? Let us fight for you because we understand - Life Happens!! CALLToll-Free 1-877-7334424 or www.callmortgagebrokers.com. The Refinancing Specialists (MortgageBrokers.com LIC#10408).
$$$ 1st, 2nd, 3rd MORTGAGES - Tax Arrears, Renovations, Debt Consolidation, no CMHC fees. $50K you pay $208.33/month (OAC). No income, bad credit, power of sale stopped!! BETTER OPTION MORTGAGES, CALL1-800-282-1169, www.mortgageontario.com (LIC# 10969).
PERSONALS
CRIMINALRECORD? Seal it with a PARDON! Need to enter the U.S.? Get a 5 year WAIVER! Call for a free brochure. Toll-free 1-888-9-PARDON or 905-459-9669. ARE YOU STILLSINGLE? Isn't it time you gave MISTYRIVER INTRODUCTIONS a call? Ontario's Traditional Matchmaker. CALL(519) 658-4204, www.mistyriverintros.com. TRUE ADVICE! True clarity! True Psychics! 1877-478-4410 (18+) $3.19/minute 1-900-7833800; truepsychics.ca. DATING SERVICE. Long-term/short-term relationships, Free to try! 1-877-297-9883.
MANOR
Security Building Fridge & Stove Utilities included For viewing please call
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SOUTHPOINT SUN
WHEATLEY SHARKS RIB FEST Saturday, May 14 at the Wheatley Arena. Tickets $16 each. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Dinner served 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
leaves and twigs from entering trough. $2 per foot installed. Eavestrough flush included. 519-326-4714. ap27
PRINTING: Business envelopes, invoices, flyers, business cards, custom print jobs, whatever your printing needs, call Rick at The Wheatley Journal for quick and economical service. 519-825-4541. tf
RENOVATIONS: Small jobs a specialty. Eavestroughing, decks, siding, windows, Gutter Cleaning Systems, furniture refinishing. Call Bill Siddall 519-825-3931. tf ELECTROLUX SALES & SERVICE: Complete line of vacuums and shampooers/ floor polishers. Will provide free estimate on Central Vac installations. Contact Dan Bailey. 519-825-7698. tf
COLORADO BLUE SPRUCE $12. Emerald & black cedars $11. Many other varieties to choose from $11. Call 519-3249665. ap13-27c
CEDAR TREES all sizes, Starting at $6.50. 519-3243835. ap20-ma4
FOR YOUR mulching needs by the truckload. Goodreau Tree Care 519-682-1657 ap20-27
In remembrance of Bonnie Garant the best Mom, and Grandma anyone could have ever been blessed to
We can't believe you have been gone a year already. Never could have imagined life without you, and it has been a struggle everyday for each and every one of us. They say that time heals, but this will take a lifetime. Can't even put into words how much we miss you. Thank you for everything. You gave us the most confident smile in the hospital room, And now we place red roses on your tomb. We never wanted you to go, But God said it had to be so. Grandma we will always love you, And we hope you'll always love us too.
Leamington Scouting: Earth Day pioneers
Cleaning up the environment since 1972
One of the important aspects taught to the youth in the various levels of Scouting is to respect and protect the environment.
For many years, prior to the introduction of recycling and blue boxes, Leamington area Scouting held four paper drives a year where the newspapers were taken to be recycled rather than put in the local landfill.
In the spring of 1972, Leamington Scouting approached Point Pelee National Park with the idea of holding a “Trash Bash” to pick up litter along the beaches and roadways. Park Superintendent Mr. W.D. Gallacher was so impressed that he wrote a letter of thanks in which he said:
“I take pleasure in congratulating you on the excellent volunteer work done by the local troops of Boy Scouts and Cubs in Point Pelee National Park. I understand that their beach clean-up project was carried out with no serious problems and that several hundred hampers of bottles, cans and wood debris were cleared away from East, West Point and East Point beaches. Although such projects do not take place frequently in the Park, your boys did an admirable job and I do appreciate their fine spirit.”
Now it has become an annual tradition for Leamington Scouting to pick up litter at Point Pelee National Park during the week of Earth Day. This year’s date was April 20.
In the early 1900s, it was common to see the names of various volunteer groups posted along the highways who had committed to “Adopt a Highway”. 2nd Leamington Scouting approached Point Pelee National Park and said “We want to Adopt a Beach”, and so in 1994 a pilot project was initiated which in time saw other volunteer groups do the same. So it was that 2nd Leamington Scouting not only pioneered the Adopt a Beach program locally, but were also the first Scouting group in Canada to do so.
Leamington Beaver Julian Domladovac and his dad Joe were helping pick up garbage and debris from the beach at Point Pelee National Park on Wednesday, April 20. (SUN Photo)
Beaver Ashtin Reid-Birch and his mom Melanie Reid were part of the group of Leamington Scouts, Venturers, Cubs and Beavers who cleaned up the beach along Point Pelee National Park. (SUN Photo)
Leamington Scouts, Venturers, Cubs and Beavers, along with their leaders and volunteers were busy picking up trash along the beach at Point Pelee National Park on a cold and windy Wednesday, April 20. The group is pictured here with the bags of trash collected. They enjoyed a hotdog BBQ afterwards. (SUN Photo)