Bowl For Kids Sake raises big bucks for Big Brothers Big Sisters
The Bowl For Kids Sake County event held Sat. Feb. 25 at Empire Lanes in Ruthven was very successful, raising $10,645 to support Big Brothers Big Sisters Windsor Essex’s youth mentoring programs and services. This is a record fundraising year for this event so far, and the organization is grateful for the support from participants and the community.
The Windsor portion of Bowl For Kids Sake takes place this weekend.
Locally, there were 110 people – 27 teams – who participated in the event, which included 3 teams from the Municipality of Leamington and a team from the Town of Kingsville. Leamington Mayor John Paterson and Kingsville Mayor Nelson Santos each headed up a team in a friendly two-game “grudge match” between the neighbouring municipalities.
Mayor Santos’ team defeated Leamington in both games.
Leamington Councillors Hilda MacDonald, Larry Verbeke and John Jacobs also took part in the bowlathon.
As Windsor Essex’s leading child and youth mentoring charity, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes a difference in the community by providing 300 area children in need with oneto-one mentoring services that are proven to help kids stay in school, avoid risky behavior such as bullying, and grow up to be more civic-minded adults.
Each time a child is paired with a mentor or a group of children is introduced to the group programs, something incredible begins – a lifechanging relationship built on friendship, trust and empowerment.
ABOVE: Bowlers on one of the Municipality of Leamington’s teams taking part in Bowl For Kids Sake, held at Empire Lanes in Ruthven on Saturday, were, left to right: Cheryl Goyette, Larry Verbeke, John Paterson, Pat McLaughlin and John Carson. Funds raised at the event benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters Windsor Essex.
AT RIGHT: Teams led by Leamington Mayor John Paterson (left) and Kingsville Mayor Nelson Santos faced off in a two-game challenge which resulted in the Town of Kingsville beating the Municipality of Leamington in both matches at Bowl For Kids Sake on Saturday.
(SUN Photos)
Bruins Alumni vs. OPP
On Saturday, February 18 the 11th annual Oldtimers’ Hockey Challenge Classic was held in Leamington with the Boston Bruins Alumni team, along with the Hanson Brothers playing the Leamington OPP team. Approximately $20,000 was added to the $210,000 raised to date from this event for WE Care For Kids. Pictured here during the official puck drop to start the game are Bruins Darren Banks and OPP Sgt. Darin Rickeard. In back is OPP Constable Kevin O’Neil, Leamington Mayor John Paterson and Staff Sgt. Mike Beatty. Dropping the puck were two players from Southpoint Minor Hockey. (SUN Photo)
ext
Leamington Fire Department was called to a Marlborough Street East house at 6:44 p.m. on Thursday, February 16. Nineteen firefighters responded to the call which took two and one-half hours to extinguish and secure the property. The approximate damage, including fire and smoke, is pegged at $65,000. The cause of the fire was undetermined. (SUN Photo)
$500 fine and licence suspension for repeat offender
A Leamington man has been fined $500 for illegally hunting waterfowl.
Louis Marentette pleaded guilty to possessing toxic lead shot for the purpose of hunting ducks and geese. In addition to the fine, he was banned from having a Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit for one year.
Court heard that on December 13, 2011, conservation officers were checking waterfowl hunters in the Municipality of Leamington. They observed Marentette hunting ducks and geese, and inspected his hunting licences and equipment. During the inspection, the officers determined that he was using toxic lead shot. Marentette had previously been convicted for possessing toxic shot while waterfowl hunting earlier in 2011.
Justice of the Peace Elizabeth Neilson heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Windsor, on February 22, 2012. To report a natural resource violation, call 1-877-TIPSMNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Charges laid in connection with Leamington robbery
On February 13, suspects forcibly entered a residence in Leamington where they assaulted and bound a female, who sustained minor injuries. While inside, the suspects then stole various items from within the residence.
The OPP Crime Unit worked around the clock to solve this invasive crime. Two search warrants were executed, resulting in stolen property being recovered.
On February 18 the Essex County OPP Crime Unit arrested and charged Philip Boutros, 36 years, and Jason Raffoul, 35 years, both of Leamington, with the following: break and enter to a dwelling (x2); wearing a disguise (x2); assault with a weapon (x2); robbery with a firearm (x2); forcible confinement (x2); possession of a weapon dangerous to the public (x2); use a firearm while committing an offence (x2); possession of stolen property over $5000; unauthorized possession of a weapon; and theft under $5000.
On February 22, the Essex County OPP Crime Unit arrested and charged Devin Alderton, age 26 years, of Leamington, and Michael Dorsey, age 33, of Windsor with the following: break and enter to a dwelling (x2); wearing a disguise (x2); assault with a weapon (x2); robbery with a firearm (x2); forcible confinement (x2); possession of a weapon dangerous to the public (x2); use a firearm while committing an offence (x2); and unauthorized possession of a weapon.
The Essex County OPP Crime Unit are asking for the public’s assistance for any information related to this offence. If anyone can provide information, they are asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477.
2012 is a leap year
A leap year consists of 366 days, as opposed to a common year, which has 365 days.
During leap years, we add a leap day, an extra – or intercalary – day on February 29. Nearly every 4 years is a leap year in our modern Gregorian calendar.
Leap years are needed to keep our calendar in alignment with the Earth’s revolutions around the sun. It takes the Earth approximately 365.242199 days (a tropical year) to circle once around the Sun. However, the Gregorian calendar has only 365 days in a year, so if we didn’t add a day on February 29 nearly every 4 years, we would lose almost six hours off our calendar every year. After only 100 years, our calendar would be off by approximately 24 days!
How do we calculate leap years?
In the Gregorian calendar, three criteria must be met to be a leap year:
The year is evenly divisible by 4;
Letters to the Editor
If the year can be evenly divided by 100, it is NOT a leap year, unless;
The year is also evenly divisible by 400. Then it is a leap year.
If you would like to send us a quick e-mail to express your opinion - good, bad or indifferent - e-mail us sun@mnsi.net
Mental health is still taboo topic
Dear Editor,
This means that 2000 and 2400 are leap years, while 1800, 1900, 2100, 2200, 2300 and 2500 are NOT leap years.
The year 2000 was somewhat special as it was the first instance when the third criterion was used in most parts of the world since the transition from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar.
Who invented leap years?
Julius Caesar introduced leap years in the Roman empire over 2000 years ago, but the Julian calendar
Thank you for publishing the beautiful article (Speaking Our Mind, Feb. 15, 2012) by Shannon Matheson on depression and her dear brother’s passing. Unbelievably, and unfortunately, depression is still such a taboo topic, though so many people struggle with it and so many families are touched by it. I think it’s important to bring attention to it as often as possible. I am a writer myself, and I often delve into topics that many people shy away from. Shannon is brave to discuss this topic and I thank you for the courage it takes as an editor to bring it forward.
had only one rule: any year evenly divisible by 4 would be a leap year. This led to way too many leap years, but didn’t get corrected until the introduction of the Gregorian calendar more than 1500 years later. Leap day fun facts
According to the Guinness Book of Records, the only verified example of a fam-
ily producing three consecutive generations born on February 29 is that of the Keogh family.
Peter Anthony was born in Ireland on February 29, 1940, while his son Peter Eric was born on the leap day in the United Kingdom (UK) in 1964. His daughter, Bethany Wealth, was, in turn, born in the UK
- Sincerely, Carla Lucchetta
on February 29, 1996.
A Norwegian family named Henriksen from Andenes holds the official record of number of children born on February 29. Mrs. Karin Henriksen gave birth to 3 children on consecutive February 29; her daughter Heidi in 1960 and her sons Olav and Leif-Martin in 1964 and 1968 respectively.
Wheatley Provincial Park - Photo by Craig Dunmore
Mastronardi Produce awarded One of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies for third year
Mastronardi Produce has long been known as industry leaders in gourmet greenhouse produce under their SUNSET® brand of products. For the third year in a row they have maintained the status of One of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies.
“My family has been focused on growing quality, flavourful produce for over 55 years and it is with great pleasure that we accept this award again this year,” said Paul Mastronardi, President. “We have a passionate team that contributes to our success; I am grateful and thank everyone for keeping up the hard work that brings us this prestigious award.”
Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies is a national awards program, recognizing Canadian companies that have implemented world-class business practices and created value in innovative ways. Applications are reviewed by a judging panel that evaluates how companies address various business challenges, including technology, globalization, brand management, leadership, leveraging and developing core competencies, designing information systems, and hiring the right talent to facilitate growth.
“We believe that there are three vital building blocks to sustainable growth: strategy, capability, and commitment. Mastronardi Produce has demonstrated it is a model of success in all three areas and is duly recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed,” explained John Hughes, Partner, Private Company Services group with Deloitte, a national sponsor of the Best Managed program.
Mastronardi Produce began growing vegetables in Leamington, Ontario, in the 1920s and was the pioneer of building commercial greenhouses in North America in the 1940s. Family owned and employee managed, Mastronardi prides itself in producing consistently flavourful gourmet greenhouse tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers. Mastronardi Produce has developed the nationally recognized SUNSET® brand into a household name with quality products like the Campari® Cocktail Tomato, Zima™ Seriously Sweet Grape Tomato, One Sweet™ Tomatoes, Peppers and Cucumbers and the unique brown tomato Kumato™. Known for their extensive variety of gourmet greenhouse tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, Mastronardi grows, markets, and ships produce to the top retailers across North America.
Mastronardi Produce built the first commercial greenhouse in North America in the 1940s and has been family owned for 4 generations. They provide year round growing of gourmet tomatoes, peppers and cucumber as well as seasonal production of eggplant, lettuce and berries. Mastronardi Produce/SUNSET® is the largest greenhouse company in North America with a senior management team with 100 years of experience combined with 1400+ acres of greenhouse production. Pictured here are Marne Safrance, Paul Mastronardi, Don Mastronardi and Paul’s daughters Mila and Anika Mastronardi.
The 13th annual Leamington District Minor Baseball Association had a record number of teams (64) for its Trivia Night on Wednesday, February 22. After 12 rounds of 10 trivia questions the top team of the evening, Misinformed, scored 87 correct answers. Pictured here are team members, from left to right, Mark Dunford, Todd Dunford, Jamie Dunford and Heather Dunford-LeBrun. In second place was N Stink with 85 points and in third place was Mill Street Magic #2 with 83 pts.
top secondary school
EnCore,
three Leamington District Secondary School students and
High School student.
Spencer Guyitt, Davey
are Encore
for 2nd place between Cereal Killers and Smartinis who were
the sudden-death question, Smartinis answered correctly to take
HIGH QUALITY LICENSED CHILD CARE
Offered at 4 schools in Leamington & Kingsville. Ages 18 months - 12 years 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. • Subsidy available. For details call 519-733-8202 www.discoverychildcareschools.com
The top elementary school team was CFLC with 27 points. Pictured here are team members, from left to right, Julia Bueckert, Julia Redekop, Frank Wiebe and Billy Teichroeb. (SUN Photos)
The
team,
with 50 points was a combination of
one Kingsville District
Pictured here
members, from left to right, Taylor Balkwill,
Watson and Jennifer Deshoiers. There was a tie
even at 48 points. In
second place.
Johnny needs to read
Have you sunk your teeth into a good book lately? There are some dandies out there right now. Check out “Heaven is For Real” by author Todd Burpo. My daughter has read it and has shared with me many of the interesting and mind-blowing experiences told in the book. It’s a little boy’s astonishing and true story of his trip to heaven and back. I really should add a copy to the growing stack of books beside my bed.
JOHN WEESE
The last book that I read from cover to cover was Ron MacLean’s “Cornered”. I completed it a number of weeks ago while I was on vacation for a week in Mexico. The book was not bad, but the experience of reading it was fabulous. I had hours to kill each day; we enjoyed gorgeous hot weather and I was lying on a seaside bed, just reading, relaxing and drinking. It got progressively more difficult to comprehend the literature as the day progressed.
More chances to win at Leamington Home & Garden Tradeshow
This year’s 12th annual Home & Garden Tradeshow has a variety of new features. Most important to those attending is the change in prizes. Each year one winner is drawn at the end of the show for a $10,000 Family Room Makeover sponsored by Gabriele’s Floor & Home. This year the prize will be split by five lucky winners, instead of just one winner. Visit www.max927.ca for contest rules and regulations and how you can qualify. In total, there are over $15,000 in prizes to be given away.
The show features everything from landscaping, home renovation specialists, backyard decks, and home décor items all under one roof at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex. The show runs: Friday, March 30, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.; Saturday, March 31, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and Sunday, April 1, 12 noon - 5 p.m.
MacLean is hardly Hemmingway, but his road stories about Don Cherry and his tales of what it’s like to be “on the inside” of the NHL was pretty cool reading.
A number of years ago, when I was married and the kids were small, I somehow find more time to read, especially novels. I went through a phase when I was burning through John Grisham novels. I’ve never been big on fiction and in my opinion Grisham “went to the well” a few too many times with his southern law themes. However, the vivid pictures he helped to create in my mind with his storytelling stick with me today
One of the best authors whose work I have thoroughly enjoyed was David Halberstam. I say “was” because his life was cut short a number of years ago in an auto accident. He wrote dozens of popular fiction books on a wide range of topics including the Vietnam War, the auto industry and the protest movement. It was his authoring of sports books that I enjoyed most, especially “October 1964”, the story of the World Series between the New York Yankees and the upstart St. Louis Cardinals. The book is beautifully written in picturesque, poignant Halberstam style. It underscores the changing times in professional sports and increasingly in the culture of the United States. In 1964, St. Louis had black superstars and a new run and gun style of playing the game. The Yankees were a traditional, mostly white,
Weese’s Pieces... long-ball hitting squad headed by American icon Mickey Mantle.
1964 was the arguably the tipping point of changing times in America, especially when it came to civil rights, the voice of Martin Luther King and the dawn of riots that would result in putting the national pastime on the back page. The front page was reserved for the national embarrassment. The loss of American innocence also occurred, not even a year prior, with the assassination of JFK. White girls screamed for the Beatles, while more and more young men were drafted into the burgeoning war machine and shipped to the killing jungles of Vietnam.
“October 1964” is a must-read for baseball fans who mentally moonlight as history buffs. “The Summer of ’49” is another classic from Halberstam. With baseball season just around the corner, it might be timely to get a little spring training in when it comes to reading such books. A few sunny days on a hot beach in the Caribbean would be a good place to get started.
Each year, the vendors create interesting and appealing booths to market their goods and services. If you’re going to be doing any home renovations, additions, or landscaping, people are encouraged to come and support local businesses. Vendors are working together for a common goal, utilizing the Leamington Tradeshow to launch their spring season!
Come ask all your Home & Garden related questions while you research all the different product lines, get quotes and estimates and learn from the professionals.
Admission $3 per adult (coupons in upcoming newspaper advertisements); coupon admits 2 adults for the price of 1.
Leamington
LAERC welcomes a new family
The Leamington Area Ecumenical Refugee Committee (LAERC) has exciting news: their 7th family has arrived! This Iraqi family of 5 – consisting of the parents and three children (10-year-old twins, a boy and a girl, and a 7-year-old boy) – escaped the persecution in their country and sought refuge in Syria. They have settled in to life in Leamington very well. The children attend Mill St. Public School and the parents are going to school too, to learn to speak English.
In other exciting LAERC news, three more ladies have joined the team. They simply showed up at the last meeting and the LAERC feels blessed to have them join the group and get involved with the families.
The LAERC is brainstorming to come up with fundraising schemes as more funds are needed to fulfill their obligations to the new family for a year, as well as for the other families that are in the process of being accepted.
All are invited to attend the next LAERC meeting on Mar. 7 at 6:30 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. S. in Leamington to offer ideas and support in this humanitarian project. Donations are also welcome and a tax receipt will be issued. For more information contact Carolyn Reid at 519-326-6776.
Taking care of your rose bushes
BILL PLUMB
No doubt you’ve heard a lot about how to take care of roses. Once the forsythia start blooming in mid to late spring, that is the time you should dig out your wellsharpened pruning shears. Keep in mind that it is very hard to kill a rose with bad pruning. Some experts will disagree, but most mistakes will grow out very quickly. It is better to make a good effort at pruning roses than to let them grow wild.
In the back yard...
Rose Pruning Basics
• Use clean sharp tools.
• Begin pruning from the base.
• Prune to open the centre of the plant to light and air circulation.
• Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle, about a quarterinch above a bud.
• Remove dead, dying or diseased wood.
• Branches that look dry, shriveled or black – cut until the inside of the cane is white.
• Remove weak or twiggy branches thinner than a pencil.
the container, being careful not to disturb the root ball, and place the plant one inch higher than ground level. Top dress with a good mulch to retain moisture. Summer planting is not recommended on new plants.
New rose bushes will require about an inch of water each week. If you notice drooping leaves, you will need to add more water. If the leaves are falling and turning yellow, you are giving them too much water.
Roses will usually bloom well in the first spring flush, but roses that aren’t well fertilized won’t bloom well for the rest of the season. Roses will thrive better if you use NPK (nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium) in ratios of about 1-2-1 that is more phosphorous than nitrogen or potassium. Too much nitrogen will promote more leaf growth than bloom growth. It is important that your fertilizers don’t just sit on top of the soil. They must be mixed in the soil and moist, in order to be able to be absorbed in the root system. Don’t over fertilize. Make sure the pH of the soil is around 6.5. This will enable the plant to use the correct mixture of minerals and nutrients effectively. If you are using chemical (liquid) fertilizers, always follow the dilution amounts on the label. Do not overfeed, as this can kill or damage your roses.
• Remove sucker growth below the graft at the base of the plant.
There are hundreds of different rose bushes that you can choose from. When you are planting a rose bush that is a bare root, this should be done in mid to late spring. First soak the roots for several hours in water, then cut the tips of the roots and you are ready to plant. However, if you purchase a rose bush that has already been grown in a planter, you will want to plant during the spring. Simply remove
Start now by preparing your compost and manure for next fall. Never use fresh compost or manure, as it has a lot of acids that can damage your plant. Let this mixture sit around during the summer, then apply it for overwintering.
Visit my website www.bptreemarketing.com
relocates them, as well as re-homes unwanted pets. This is a volunteer community service.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7 - Leamington Blood
organization and would like a meeting place on weekdays, or if you are interested in learning more about our organization, or to have us involved in your community, please contact Leo at 519 325-0953.
THURSDAY, MARCH 1 - The Wheatley Two Creeks Association Annual Meeting at Wheatley Legion, 7:00 p.m. Three members will be selected for the board for 3-year terms. Election of officers to follow. Membership $5. New members welcome.
FRIDAY, MARCH 2 - World Day of Prayer 2012, 2:00 p.m. at FGT Family Church, 285 Talbot St. E., Leamington. Guest speaker: Ben Gagné.
SATURDAY, MARCH 3 - The Talbot Trail Theatre Company is hosting the Talbot Trail Talent Showcase 2012 at 6:00 p.m. at Wheatley Baptist Church. $15 per person includes dessert fondue at tableside, silent auction, and excellent entertainment. Advance tickets 519825-7433.
SATURDAY, MARCH 3 - Kittenaide Adoption Event, 11 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Cats ($50) and kittens ($20) available at Petzone, 1715 Manning Rd. S. at EC Row. Donation draw and in-store specials. Info at 519-324-2729. Kittenaide programs rescue abandoned, domestic felines and
Donor Clinic at the Portuguese Club, 217 Talbot St. W., Leamington, 12:00 noon - 7:30 p.m. Call 1-888-236-6283 for information or to book an appointment. Walk-ins welcome.
FRIDAY, MARCH 9 - How about a Nice Hot Bowl of Chili? 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. S., Leamington. Dessert and beverage included. Adults $7, children $3. Takeout available.
MONDAY, MARCH 12 - Ladies: You and a friend are invited to a dinner evening at 6:30 p.m. at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens. Tickets $16. Guest speaker and soloist is Maria Carl. Theme: Heartfelt Songs of My Life. Special feature: presentation by Brenda Fischer from the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex. For reservations call Sharon 519-326-0421 or Darlene 519-733-5595 by Fri. Mar. 9.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14 & TUESDAY, MARCH
20 - FREE Breastfeeding Information Session, Windsor-Essex County Health Unit 1005 Ouellette Ave., Windsor, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Breastfeeding is a wonderful and healthy way to feed your baby. If you are thinking of breastfeeding and would like easy and helpful tips, join us for a free information session. Everyone is welcome. All classes are taught by public
health nurses. To Register, call 519-258-2146, ext. 1340.
SATURDAY, MARCH 17 & SUNDAY, MARCH 18
- 47th Rt. Hon. Sir Winston Churchill Chapter IODE Antique Show on Saturday, March 17 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday, March 18 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex. $5 admission. Leading Canadian dealers. Handicapped accessible.
MONDAYS, MARCH 19 - JUNE 4 - “Alpha Course”. Dinner, video and discussion, exploring the meaning of the Christian Faith. Every Monday, 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. at Meadow Brook Fellowship, 219 Talbot St. E., Leamington. To register call 519-326-3605.
SATURDAY, MARCH 24 - Wild Game Dinner & Silent Auction, with Italio Labignan from the Canadian Sport Fishing Network on TSN, at 6:30 p.m., Kingsville Community Church, 1860 Division Rd. N. Special guests: the Kingsville Jazz Quartet a.k.a. Ron’s Relics. Tickets $18 in advance, $20 at the door, available at Kingsville Community Church 519-733-5693 or FGT Church, 285 Talbot St. E. in Leamington 519322-2316. Limited seating. Proceeds to KCC Men’s Ministry.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28 - Farm Safety annual meeting at Colsaanti’s at 6:00 p.m. $15, everyone welcome. Call 519-776-7476 for more info.
Maple: first taste of spring
Making maple syrup is one of the first true signs of spring. Learn about a true Canadian tradition with Essex County’s only maple syrup festival, Maple – First Taste of Spring, on Sunday, March 4 from noon to 4 p.m. at the John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area.
Costumed guides will be making maple syrup and sugar the pioneer way and visitors are invited to get involved at every stage. Discover all of the hard work that goes into maple making, starting at the trees and ending up at the kitchen table. Outside, get up-close and see the trees tapped and the sap boiling down in a large iron cauldron. Come inside to watch the wonderful finishing of the syrup in the 1850s kitchen. Knowledgeable staff will be on hand to answer your questions about maple trees at the “Science of Maple” sessions, and the event will also feature a film and exhibit.
Children can participate throughout the day with various hands-on activities: try a brace and bit, carry pails of sap using an old-fashioned yoke and make a maple craft to take home. Most exciting is the chance to make your own maple taffy on the snow! Impossible you say? The Homestead is prepared for anything!
In true pioneer fashion, Homestead Curator Janet Cobban reveals: “We have been thinking that this unseasonably mild weather may continue and wreck havoc on our taffy plans,” said Homestead Curator Janet Cobban. “So, we have made emergency preparations and packed our modern chest freezer to the brim with fresh white snow. Taffy making on real snow is a go, no matter what the weather brings.”
Visitors are advised to dress warmly and wear boots.
Other March events at the Homestead include:
• Maple March Break for Families on Tues. Mar. 13 and Fri. Mar. 16 at 1:30 p.m. sharp.
• Maple Moon evening program on Tues. Mar. 13 at 7 p.m.
• Earth Hour Eve on Fri. Mar. 30 at 7:30 p.m.
Please note: Pre-registration is required for the Maple Moon and Earth Hour Eve programs. Register online at www.onlineregistrations.ca/jrph
The Homestead is located at 915 County Road 50, at the corner of Iler Road on the lakeshore. For more detailed information on the Homestead’s maple events, visit www.erca.org/events, call 519-738-2029 or email jrph@erca.org.
KINGSVILLE - 27 Main St. East 519-733-5032
LEAMINGTON - 34 Talbot St. East 519-322-2802
ESSEX - 76 Talbot St. North 519-776-6340
TILBURY - 20 Queen St. S. 1-519-682-3180
Tapping a maple tree in order to make maple syrup.
At John R. Park Homestead’s First Taste of Spring event on Sun. Mar. 4, visitors of all ages will enjoy making and eating sweet maple taffy. Whether there is snow or not, staff at the Homestead are prepared with a stockpile of snow in their freezer in order to make this perennial favourite.
Wednesday, February 22nd
Flyers 6 – LaSalle 5
In their last road game of the regular season the Flyers knocked off cross-county rivals the LaSalle Vipers 6-5. It was an eventful penalty filled match that even saw Flyers head coach Tony Piroski getting kicked out towards the end of the game for arguing with the referees.
Cheyne Matheson scored two powerplay goals and added an assist with Nick Nicodemo also scoring a pair of goals including one shorthanded and the other unassisted. Tony Spidalieri and Tyler Quigley were the other goal scorers while Colin Greeley made 21 saves in net and also assisted on one of Matheson’s goals.
“The whole team put it a solid effort,” said Wheatley native Cheyne Matheson. “We out worked them, got goaltending when needed, and we overcame the penalties at the end that put us under a lot of pressure. “
There were a total of 82 penalty minutes called in the game with the Flyers going 3 for 8 on the powerplay and LaSalle going 2 for 10. Piroski was ejected with 5:13 remaining in the 3rd period which resulted in a two game suspension since it was his second time being ejected from a game this season. Forwards Adam Hughes and Mitch Amante also received suspensions, both four games, as a result of fights during the game.
Matt Ogden skates in on a breakaway during overtime of Sunday’s game. Ogden was stopped by Sarnia goalie Sean Parker but the Flyers eventually won in a shootout. (photo by Shelly Quick)
After giving up a goal just 21 seconds into the game to, the Flyers rebounded with a vengeance and beat the Chatham Maroons 6-2 on Thursday. Flyers leading scorer Alex Seguin led the way with a pair of goals and a pair of assists with single markers scored by Brett Langlois, Eric Leardi, Brett Babkirk and Matt Ogden. Austin Mattson and Tyler Quigley each chipped in with two assists while netminder Darien Ekblad earned his 13th win of the season making 41 saves.
“I thought we played a pretty solid game all around,” said Flyers leading scorer Alex Seguin. “These last few games of the season are really hard to play because we want to try to keep everyone healthy going in to playoffs and I thought we did a good job stepping up, even with guys out of the lineup.”
Wheatley native Ian Faubert opened the scoring for the Maroons and added an assist on their second goal.
Graduating Players 2011 2012
The Flyers closed out the regular season with an exciting 4-3 shootout win over the 1st place Sarnia Legionnaires on Sunday.
Alex Seguin opened the scoring midway through the 1st period with his 35th goal of the season. Sarnia countered late in the period but Jared Dennis responded scoring with just 12 seconds remaining in the first to make it 2-1 for the Flyers. Sarnia scored twice in the second period and carried a 3-2 lead for most of the third until Leamington native Brett Babkirk tied it up with just under 5 minutes to go in regulation.
Matt Ogden nearly ended the game for the Flyers when he had a breakaway in overtime but he was stopped by Sarnia goalie Sean Parker and the game headed to a shootout for the first time at Heinz Arena since November 5, 2009.
The Flyers got goals from Alex Seguin and Tony Spidalieri in the first two rounds and after allowing a goal in the first round, Darien Ekblad stopped the next two Sarnia shooters to give the Flyers the win. It was the rookie netminder’s 14th win of the season.
at the end of this season.
Ron
PLAYOFF SCHEDULE
The Flyers will play the Strathroy Rockets in the first round of playoffs starting with game 1 in Leamington this Thursday. The Rockets tied the LaSalle Vipers for sixth place in the standings however LaSalle had the upper hand on their season series so they earned sixth place and the Rockets finished in seventh.
Game 1: Thursday, March 1st in Leamington- 7:10pm
Game 2: Saturday, March 3rd in Strathroy- 7:30pm
Game 3: Sunday, March 4th in Leamington- 7:10pm
Game 4: Tuesday, March 6th in Strathroy- 7:30pm
Game 5: Thursday, March 8th in Leamington- 7:10pm (if necessary)
Game 6: Saturday, March 10th in Strathroy - 7:30pm (if necessary)
Game 7: Sunday, March 11th in Leamington - 7:10pm (if necessary)
NOTES: The Flyers had a number of players sit out recently due to injuries including Ron Soucie (groin), Chris Scott (ankle) and Jacob Henrikson (shoulder). They are all expected to return for the start of playoffs. Windsor Jr Spitfires AAA Midget Major players JP Grineau of Leamington and Brandon Lalonde of Tecumseh continued to fill in for the injured players and on Sunday the Flyers also called up Mark Fratarcangeli from Windsor AAA Midget Majors and Southpoint Midget Major players Colin Harris and Lucas Raffoul, both of Leamin gton...Head Coach Tony Piroski will be back on the bench for game 1 of playoffs after serving his two game suspension that was assessed against LaSalle. Adam Hughes and Mitch Amante are eligible to play in game three of the first round after receiving four game s uspensions….Flyers leading scorer Alex Seguin registered a point in all but six of the 46 games he played in this season.
From left to right:
Soucie, Matt Ogden, Nick Nicodemo, Austin Mattson, Cheyne Matheson and Tyler Quigley. (Shelly Quick photo)
2012 Southpoint Stars
March Kick
Off Tourney in honour of
This weekend the Southpoint Stars will play host to its 9th annual March Kick Off Houseleague Tournament in honour of Keith Lindsay.
This year’s tournament has 33 teams participating: 4 in the Atom division, 8 in the Peewee Division, 5 in Bantam, and 16 in the Intermediate (ages 1521) division.
Tournament convenor, Vice President of Southpoint and Director of girls hockey, Greg Dries is excited about the size of the tournament this year. Since Dries has taken over as director of girls hockey, the tournament has grown substantially. This year’s tournament boasts a large intermediate division, a sign that girls hockey is growing strong.
The action begins Friday, March 2nd at noon, and continues throughout Saturday, with the championship games finishing up on Sunday. Come out and support your local Southpoint teams! The master schedule is posted, along with other information on Southpoint’s website at www. southpointminorhockey .com.
Sharks drop playoff final 4-3 to Belle River
On Tuesday night, February 21 the Wheatley Sharks invaded the Lakeshore Arena to battle the Belle River Canadiens in the fifth game of the best of seven series. Down 3 games to 1, the Sharks needed this game. They came out strong, but it was Jason Koumaris who provided the Canadiens with the first goal midway through period 1 when he beat Marc Tremblay with a low shot to Marc’s right
side. Trevor Grieve got a nice pass from Sebastian Kanally to tie the game at the 11-minute mark of the second frame. Also assisting on the play was Brian Johnson. Branden Larocque restored Belle River’s lead a couple of minutes later. Austin Fontaine tied the game early in the third period on a powerplay marker when he received a nice feed from behind the net from Riley Babkirk and Jes-
se Martin. Belle River then forged a two-goal lead with markers from Nik Dobrich and Weston Gaul. With two minutes remaining, Wheatley pulled their goaltender for an extra skater. This worked out when Jesse Martin got the faceoff and fed Kurtis Ouellette who blasted the puck home from the point.
Wheatley tried everything to even the contest but to no avail as they went down to defeat 4-3, thus ending their season. The Sharks are to be commended for coming to play this game. But for a few breaks, this game could have went their way. In a game that saw the Sharks play one of their most dis-
ciplined games all year, it was a good game to watch. Wheatley only took 2 minor penalties all game and one of those was a coincidental penalty. To a man, they played their hearts out and probably deserved a better fate. Unfortunately, their play earlier in the series had them in a deep hole. See you at the arena this fall.
Wheatley Sharks - 2011/2012
Keith Lindsay
The Rolling Stones hit the curling rink
By Juliana Willemsma
The second meeting of the 4-H Curling Club was held on Feb. 19 at the Kingsville Curling Club. The leader, Miss Glenda, welcomed everyone to the meeting. Juliana led the members in the 4-H Pledge and then elections were held. Hanna is the president and Emma is the vice-president. Kate is the photographer. Juliana is the secretary and press reporter. Nic is the youth leader. The members decided to name the club “The Rolling Stones”.
Next the leaders reviewed curling terms and the group discussed curling etiquette.
The members then went down to the ice where Nic demonstrated sliding, with and without the rock, and sweeping. They practiced for 30 minutes and then went upstairs for hot chocolate. After warming up, the members split into two teams and played a 4-end game. The score was 1-1. The members went back upstairs for more hot chocolate and ice cream and to watch one end of the Alberta vs. Manitoba Scotties Tournament game. It was interesting watching experienced curlers play.
REGISTRATION
LDSS girls hockey team advances to finals
The Leamington District Secondary School girls hockey team won both semi-final matches against Essex District High School last week. After doubling the Essex squad 6-3 on Thursday, February 16, the girls finished off the series with a 5-2 win on Tuesday, February 21.
The girls advance to the WECSSAA finals, which started Monday against L’Essor. The LDSS Lions finished first in regular league action with 9 wins, 1 loss and 2 ties for a total of 20 points. L’Essor finished in second place with 15 points – 6 wins, 3 losses and 3 ties.
L’Essor won the first game on Monday, Feb. 27th, 4-1.
REC ROUND-UP REC ROUND-UP
Over 50 assorted Fitness & Aqua Fitness classes per week
• Did you know the Complex offers NOON HOUR fitness classes? Come for a 30 minute Pilates Tummy Tuck class on Mondays and Wednesdays, and come for Fit in 30 with Rosie on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Exercise made easy in 30 minutes from 12:15-12:45 on your lunch break!
• Complex weight and cardio training rooms are full of equipment. Whether you’re just beginning or if you exercise to an advanced regimen, the Complex offers one compact fee and no enrollment or initiation fees.
• Youth can purchase a swim/gym/ skate pass and be in motion all winter long!
• Student memberships are very affordable and very popular among the teenage crowd!
• Adults can meet with a personal trainer or nutrition and wellness coach to help them reach new goals!
• Rock ’n Swim on Fri. Mar. 2 from 7-9 p.m. Listen to your favourite tunes sponsored by Dr. K. Archer Family Dental Care while you swim the night away in the Complex salt water pool.
• Swimming Theme Day: Spring Fling takes place on Sun. Mar. 25 from 1-3p.m. Lifeguards will lead fun games like an Easter Egg Hunt and Egg Relays on the pool deck!
• March Break is fast approaching – Mon. Mar. 12 to Fri. Mar. 16 – and if you aren’t headed south then the Complex is the place to be! March Break Activities include daily public swimming from 3-5 p.m., daily recreational gym from 1-3 p.m., and daily public skating from 1-3 p.m.
• March Break Day Camp for ages 4-7 and 8-12. Camp runs from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. with a different theme each day to keep the kids entertained and active! There’s swimming, skating, crafts and games galore, plus ‘You’re the Chef’ for the kids ages 8-12. Register early, as Day Camp fills up quickly.
• The 12th annual Home and Garden Tradeshow takes place Mar. 30, 31 and Apr.
1. Leamington’s Home & Garden Tradeshow is the place to come for all your spring garden and home renovation projects. Don’t drive all over to 5 or 6 showrooms when you can visit with all the vendors under one roof and be informed on all the latest products and services and pricing. Plus you can WIN over $15,000 in prizes at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex Tradeshow! www.leamington.ca link to recreation and Activity Guide
Atom Minors win in miraculous 3rd period come-from-behind
After 2 weeks without a game, the HUB Atom Minors headed to Belle River to start their Blue Water Playoffs. HUB seemed to be rusty to start, with Belle River leading 3-0 after the first.
The Jr. Canadiens lead 4-0 after two periods. HUB started to get their legs late in the second but could not put anything past the goaltender.
Eric Wright potted one for HUB early in the third with the assist to Addison Major. That seemed to open the floodgates. Brayden Zuidema had a hat trick in the third with assists to Kaleb Tiessen (2), Russel Derbyshire and Eric Wright with (1). Russel Derbyshire and Kaleb Tiessen had a goal each with assists to Addison Major and Brayden Z. Belle River scored with 0:15 seconds left but it was to late. HUB won 6-5 with a MIRACULOUS third period come-from-behind. Nicholas Driedger earned the win in goal for Southpoint.
This past Saturday, HUB played the Riverside Rangers on the Heinz rink. Brayden Zuidema opened the scoring in the first, with assists going to Eric Wright and Andrew Verhaeghe, to lead 1-0 after one.
Owen Scratch scored on a one hopper from the blueline that fooled the goalie and found the back of the net. Brady Bunda redirected a Josh Cacilhas point shot to put HUB up 3-0 after two.
Eric Wright scoredearly in third with assists to Brayden Zuidema and Eric Tavares, who was called up from AEs. Nicholas Driedger was two minutes away from the shutout when one squeaked through the pads and trickled into the net.
Keep up the hard work, HUB!
By Dean Ware
The Southwest Outdoors Club is presenting its 7th annual Big Buck and Bull Day on Saturday, March 3rd. It is an event not to be missed – last year’s inaugural 5-hour show was a huge success with attendance of over 600 outdoor enthusiasts. There were an estimated 100 deer racks and approximately 20 moose racks entered in the show for scoring. The number 3 black bear from Ontario, believe it or not, was harvested by a 13-year old girl!
The event is taking place at Tilbury Arena and this year the show time hours have been extended, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission is $5.
Trophies and prizes will be presented for Typical Whitetail, Non-Typical Whitetail, Moose, Whitetail Sheds, Black Bear and Wild Turkey. The members of the Foundation for Recognition of Ontario Wildlife (FROW) will conduct the scoring. At last year’s event, FROW presented a score that ended up being a Non-Typical Ontario record.
Guest speakers will include award-winning outdoor communicator and host of Hunt Talk, Ripple Outdoors Peter Wood; the Beasley Brothers, co-hosts of the TV show Canada in the Rough; and back by popular demand is country recording artist Randall Haley from Tennessee.
Last but not least, there will be a sponsored Kids Trout Pond where kids can fish for free, kids archery and safety education.
The Southwest Outdoors Club in Wheatley is a non-profit organization dedicated to the environment, conservation, and outdoor heritage which includes hunting and fishing. The club is relatively new to the outdoor community that extends throughout Ontario. The club was founded in 2003 with the help of Spyros Chyrsochou of the Ontario Federation of
Anglers and Hunters and now boasts a membership of 260.
The Southwest Outdoors Club is involved in several community endeavors that include: SOC’s Kids Fishing Day that attracts up to 500 young anglers to Wheatley Harbour; the Big Boyz Fishing Tournament which attracts 500 anglers to Wheatley in July-August for worldclass rainbow trout fishing; the wild turkey re-introduction in the Wheatley area; and an ongoing wood duck box program with the Wheatley Scouts.
For more information about Big Buck and Bull Day, go to www.swoc.ca or visit them on Facebook.
OPP bust major indoor marijuana grow operation in Lakeshore
On February 21 at 10:00 p.m., members of the OPP Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau (OCEB) and the OPP Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) conducted two drug-related search warrants on residences in Tecumseh and Lakeshore.
The first warrant was conducted in the 1400 block of County Road 22 in Lakeshore. The OPP seized approximately 4,000 marijuana plants and paraphernalia.
Three Toronto area men have been charged with numerous Criminal Code charges, and Controlled Drug and Substance Act charges. The men – ages 46, 47 and 51 – were held in custody awaiting a bail hearing before the judicial system. Their names had not been released as of press time.
The OPP OCEB and DEU also conducted a search
warrant in the 12000 block of Vickery Lane, Tecumseh. No marijuana was located; however, evidence revealed the residence had just recently been used as an indoor marijuana grow operation. Investigating is continuing on this residence and charges may be laid.
Council pouring over 2012 Budget
Leamington Council started the long process of examining all department requests and grant requests as part of the annual Budget deliberations.
After all the departments submitted their budgets, the final Leamington Budget is facing a .06% increase. Council started the process on Monday, February 27 at noon and resumed with a second special budget session on Tuesday, February 28 at 6 p.m.
At Monday’s special budget meeting, Council welcomed several local groups who approached Council for grant and special funding.
Grants requested
• CFTV 34, Southshore Broadcasting Inc.
• South Essex Art Association
• Leamington Tomato Festival Association
• Migrant Workers Community Program
• Leamington Mersea Historical Society
• Leamington Horticultural Society
• Leamington and District Half Century Centre
• Leamington District Chamber of Commerce
WHOOPI�GOLDBERG Saturday, March 3
PRESENTS
ELVIS�COSTELLO &�THE�IMPOSTERS
Saturday, April 21
OPEN�TO�ALL�AGES! KELLY�CLARKSON with special guest Ma� Nathanson Thursday, March 8
GLADYS�KNIGHT Saturday, April 28
JOHNNY�REID Friday, May 4
CELTIC�CROSSROADS World Fusion Tour Thursday, March 15
KENNY�ROGERS Saturday, March 17
BURTON�CUMMINGS Friday, March 23
TRANS-SIBERIAN� ORCHESTRA Saturday, May 12
IL�DIVO Friday, May 18
BOBBY�VINTON Friday, June 1
THE�O’JAYS Saturday, March 31
FRANK�SINATRA�JR� Saturday, April 7
THE��TH�DIMENSION Thursday, April 12
KEVIN�COSTNER� &�MODERN�WEST Friday, April 13
Tickets on sale now!
LISA�LAMPANELLI Friday, June 8
Tickets on sale now!
THE�PRICE�IS�RIGHT�LIVE June 27-30
Tickets on sale March 2
Meet Preston Lobzun…
Preston Lobzun is 18 years old, and although he was born in Windsor he has always lived in Wheatley. You may know Preston’s grandma, Rita Lobzun who is currently living in Chatham, and Preston’s father, Terry Lobzun, is well know for his songwriting and performing for many years with the local band the Kintones. Terry also plays solo at local coffee houses like the Last Friday Coffee House and Wheatley’s own Rebel Cowboy Music’s Second Saturdays Songwriter Series at Wheatley Legion. Preston is currently in two bands. The first, “Weirdonia”, is a two-member garage band. Preston plays drums and synth (keyboards) along with Alex Martens, also of Wheatley, playing guitar and vocals. Preston and Alex have known each other since grade 4, and in grade 8 they both stated playing music. Both are self-taught. They started jamming together and always recorded their practices on cassette tapes. They still have these early tapes in a box.
Next they added a drummer, Matt Bouwmeester from Leamington, and that band started in high school. This band got pretty serious about playing and recording… they did one gig and that was the end of that band.
In 2010, Preston and Alex started to get their own sound, and at the same time Preston got in another band called “Trajectory”. They got to play lots of gigs in Windsor at the Blind Dog and Coach and Horses, and they played for a year at the Chubby Pickle.
The next project was the band “Aurelia”, a 4-piece band with Preston on bass guitar and backing vocals, Dan Zompaniti of Leamington doing lead vocals, Jake Moroun from Essex on guitar, and Matt Andrew of Windsor on drums. With this band they recorded a 4-song EP in November of 2011, released it on December 9, and got a good write-up by Dylan Kristy in The Windsor Star.
TOM GIGNAC
The group “Weirdonia” has always stayed together in one way or another. They have been interviewed on CJAM, a University radio station in Windsor, and CHRW, London University radio station. They have also recorded a full-length album at home. Preston is keeping really busy with both bands and they are currently looking for shows in the London, Toronto and Windsor areas. Preston did his co-op at Leamington District Secondary School and worked at The Music Room in Leamington from Septem-
CCO O M M M MUUN NIIT T YY AAW WAAR REEN NEES SSS: :
Supporting the organizations who provide support to our community
Leamington is somewhat unusual in the Windsor-Essex County Region in terms of diversity. The large Newcomer population is indicated by the vast number of residents who speak different languages. For example, Spanish, Low-German, Thai, Laotian and Arabic. These people can be assisted through South Essex Community Council’s Immigrant Services and Education programs.
South Essex Community Council - Immigrant Services Program
The South Essex Community Council (SECC) has been serving the South Essex Community since 1973. With the mission “Helping People. Improving Lives”, SECC offers 3 core services for those who are new to Canada or the South Essex area. 1. Settlement Services
ber 2011 to January 2012. He will be going to Fanshaw College in September and hopes to get in the Music Industry Arts Program. He is currently working as a teacher at Rebel Cowboy Music in Wheatley, teaching guitar bass and drums as well as beginner sax and ukulele.
Describe your music: For the band Weirdonia, Preston says it’s comparable to Jack White of The White Stripes, but even more energetic and upbeat. They were influenced by System of a Down and The White Stripes. For the band Aurelia, their sound is in the style of the early 90s grunge bands and also a combination of punk and heavy metal.
Most significant gig: The 125th anniversary of McKenzie Hall in Windsor. It was a large outdoor show with all kinds of music, from a classical guitarist to folk singers and Preston’s group Weirdonia. The band played after a rainstorm and the crowd came back to enjoy the music and festival. Preston handed out a lot of CDs and made some great connections to a wider audience.
Brush with fame: The most exciting thing so far is their recent publicity in The Windsor Star with the article about their group Aurelia. They also got to play with a touring group The Bunny The Bear from Buffalo, New York. As well, they went and saw Hank Williams the 3rd at St. Andrew’s Hall in Detroit. After Hank’s 3-hour set they got to meet him. Preston gave Hank one of their Weirdonia t-shirts. Earlier in the show, Preston threw a CD on the stage hoping that Hank would get it later.
Most interesting gig: They got to play at a 12-hour heavy metal festival with the old band Trajectory at the Blind Dog in Windsor. The band ended up playing in the boiler room that was on the main floor. It was in the old kitchen with no ventilation and it was hot, hot, hot! This was their first Windsor show and it was the beginning for this band to start playing more shows.
CDs and recordings to date: Aurelia has a 4-song EP “LHS”, available as a free download on Facebook. “Aurelia: Live @ the Coach and Horses” is 6 songs also available on Facebook for free download. Weirdonia has a CD called “Freaks”, also online for download. Preston is currently working on recording an acoustic project of original songs and he will do most of the backing instruments... with the help of a few friends.
If you could play with anyone, who would it be?: Preston said right away it would be Hank 3. He would love to spend some time writing songs with Hank and doing shows would be a great thrill because of the energy of the band and the audience. He’s also a big fan of the pop punk band Alkaline Trio from Chicago. Their songwriting has influenced Preston to write more.
2. Youth Opportunities Program (NEW!)
A program for youth 16-24 years old who are new to Canada or to the South Essex area. Youth learn leadership skills through volunteering, mentoring and recreational activities and also have access to SECC’s employment programs and services.
3. Welcoming Communities Program Connects Newcomers with their community to assist them in successfully settling and integrating. This program also educates the wider community about the issues facing Newcomers. FREE Citizenship Classes begin on January, 2012. Call 519-326-8629 for more information!
Provides Newcomers with one-onone counselling and information on health care, employment, housing and education to assist with their integration into the community.
In 5 year’s time: Preston hopes to be a graduate of the MIA course in London. He would also like to be in a touring band and working in the music industry. Because of his interest in recording, he is looking forward to learning more about that part of the business. He is also interested in the possibility of running a music store and lesson facility down the road.
So if you are looking for music lessons you can contact Preston at Rebel Cowboy Music 519-825-3330. For band bookings: www. facebook.com/weirdonia or www.facebook.com/weareaurelia.
“Helping people. Improving lives.”
Preston Lobzun
Winter Carnival at Ruthven P.S.
Students in Grades 4 to 8 at Ruthven Public School commemorated Quebec’s Winter Carnival by hosting their own afternoon of activities. Students participated in dance, Bonhomme beanbag toss, hulahoop races, hockey, obstacle course and enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies. Bonhomme Carnival visited and participated in the merriment. Ruthven students Justin Kersey, left, and Darnell Farnsworth welcomed Bonhomme Carnival (a.k.a. Gr. 8 student Reid Young) during the school’s Carnival de Ruthven. The event was organized to celebrate Quebec’s Winter Carnival. (Photo submitted)
Ruthven Public School held
grades 4 to 8 presented their
teacher Heather Fleming poses with
Olivia Symons. Dalton’s speech
Colour Green. Olivia will
4-H Baking Club cooks up a storm
By Sam Grant
The first meeting of the 4-H Baking Club was held on Feb. 18 Emma Anger, the youth leader, demonstrated how to make whole wheat twist bread and then the members each tried to knead the bread dough, which was not an easy task. Next, they placed the dough in the oven.
The club split up into two groups and started the preparations for lunch. One group made pizzas, while the other group made happy face apple muffins. Lunch was delicious.
Next, the executive was elected. This year the President is Abby, the Vice-President is Kyla, the Treasurer is Sam, and the Photographers are Jordyn and Arielle. The name for the club this year is The Spice Girls to correspond with the theme of the Harrow Fair.
The second meeting of the 4-H Baking Club was held on Sat. Feb. 25. The members began the meeting by reciting the 4-H Pledge. We then split up into groups. One group made a pumpkin loaf with walnuts and chelsea and the second group made cinnamon rolls.
During this time, Megan helped Mrs. Anger in preparing pizza pups for lunch. There was a lot of work in the preparations, but lunch was very delicious and it was worth it in the end.
After lunch, the club held the business part of the meeting, and the loaves of whole wheat twist bread that members baked at home were judged. The members were given the opportunity to review the judges’ standards for bread making at the different fairs.
Pizza Pups
These pizza style hot dogs may be served for snacks, parties and quick meals. Sauce may be made ahead and reheated for assembling the “pups”.
¼ c olive oil or cooking oil
1 tsp crushed oregano
½ c chopped onion or 2 tbsp instant chopped onion
1 tsp garlic salt or ¼ tsp garlic powder
4 c tomato juice
1 tsp salt
⅛ tsp pepper
8 hot dogs
8
6
Fes-
Heat oil in saucepan and fry onion slowly until limp (omit this step for instant onion.) Add tomato juice and seasonings and cook rapidly, uncovered, until sauce is thickened, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add hot dogs and simmer 3 minutes. Preheat broiler. Make lengthwise slits in tops of rolls and place on shallow baking sheet or broiler pan. Place hot dogs in the slits and split the hotdogs lengthwise. Fill the hot dogs with sauce. Top with cheese slices cut in halves lengthwise. Broil about 6” from the broiler until cheese melts, about 1 minute. Serve once the cheese melts.
tival, scheduled for March 1 at Ruthven Public School. (Photo submitted)
Canadian CrissCross
SPONSORED BY
M.D. Bennie orators participate in Communications Fest
Several speakers bravely represented their classes at M.D. Bennie’s Oral Communications Festival on Friday, February 17. The Gr. 4-8 students spoke and answered questions in a variety of topics this year. Junior speakers and their topics were: Hailey Bazala – Believe; Jasmine Schmidtt – Body Image; Jessica Weil – Skiing; Drake Mastronardi – Boats; Madison Dekok – My Pet Dog Quincy; Abby Berg – Speeches; Ashlin Mastronardi – Inspiration of Barbie; and Fattma Al-Mosawi – Iraq. Speakers in the Intermediate category and their chosen topics were: Peter Gallagher – Steve Jobs; Bryn Parent –Braces; Karlee Clark – McDonald’s; Camryn Enns – Hogwarts; Abbey Morin – Peanut Butter; Baileigh Coulter – Being An Aunt. Judges Mrs. York, Mr. Gerardo and Mr. Rumble had their work cut out for them selecting a winner in each division. The Junior Oral Communications winner was Hailey Bazala. Peter Gallagher was the Intermediate and Overall Oral Communications winner. Peter will represent M.D. Bennie at the South Area Oral Communications Festival on March 1. Bulldogs also attended the Leamington Legion Public Speaking Contest on Sunday, February 19. (Photos submitted)
George F. Heyens
82 years, passed away peacefully Thursday, February 23, 2012. Beloved husband of Erla (Hill). Dear father of Wendy Hillier, Mike (Karleen), David (Nancy), Kathy Cormier (Bernie), Chris, Jim (Lori). Loving grandfather of Christopher Thomas, Lyndsay Thomas, Grant Heyens, Justin and Shannon Heyens, Jocelyn Heyens, Jodi Heyens, Matthew Heyens, Garett and Erin Reid, Simon and Jessica Reid, Mallory Heyens, and Mackenzie Heyens. Six greatgrandchildren also survive. Dear brother of Helen Towell (Earl), and the late Margaret Frederick (George), the late Henry Heyens (Carole).
George was a former board member of the Canadian Mental Health Association, member of Wheatley Town Council, Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, the Wheatley Arena Committee and other Wheatley and area community organizations and efforts. George was well known by most farmers in Essex and Kent counties having worked in the farm implement business for more than 30 years. He will always be remembered for his kind, gentle and giving personality. George was a
faith-filled man who was one of the original parishoners instrumental in bringing the Catholic Church to Wheatley. Their efforts led to the building of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church on Middleton Line. His unwavering faith was evident to the end.
Visitation was held Friday, February 24th at Reid Funeral Home and Reception Centre. George’s life was celebrated Saturday, February 25th at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church in Wheatley with Fr. Pat Feurth officiating
The family would like to thank the choirs from St. Michael’s Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church in Wheatley, St. Michael’s Leamington and soloist Nicole Barron for their gift of inspiration and comfort through song.
Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or charity of your choice. Friends may send condolences or make a charitable donation online at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.
The angels gathered near your bed so very close to you, for they knew the pain and suffering that you were going through. We thought about so many things as we held tightly to your hand. Oh how we wished that you were strong, and happy once again. But your eyes were looking homeward. To the place beyond the sky. Where Jesus held His outstretched arms, it was time to say goodbye. We struggled with our selfish thoughts, for we wanted you to stay. So we could talk again, like we did just yesterday. But Jesus knew the answer, and we knew He loved you so, so we gave to you life’s greatest gift – the gift of letting go.
Peter Gallagher (left) and Hailey Bazala were top speakers at M.D. Bennie’s communications fest. Peter won the Intermediate division and was Overall Oral Communications winner with his speech on Steve Jobs. Hailey’s topic was Believe.
4-H Art Club making sock
monkeys
By Juliana Willemsma
The first meeting of the 4-H Art Club was held at the home of the leaders, Miss Kim and Mr. Marshall. The members said the pledge and then elected the executive. Nic is the president, Juliana is the vice-president and the press reporter, Emma is the secretary and Lauren is the treasurer. The photographers are Rachel, Hanna and Alexandra. Assisting the photographers are Carissa, Emma and Darin. Monkeys in Stitches was chosen as the club name.
This year’s project is making sock monkeys. The monkeys will be donated to an organization such as a hospital or orphanage. Miss Kim gave the members information on making sock monkeys and the history of sock monkeys, and the members started creating them. The socks used must have a toe and heel and must be new, but can be different colors and patterns. Youth leader Leah, Miss Kim, parents, and skilled 4-H Sewing Club members helped the members cut and sew. Before adjourning the meeting the members enjoyed a snack of banana bread and juice. The next meeting will be on Fri. Mar. 16 from 6-9 p.m. in Leamington.
Safety around tillage machinery
4-H Farm Safety Club
By Hanna Willemsma
The second meeting of the 4-H Farm Safety Club was held on Feb. 23. Nic opened the meeting and the members recited the 4-H Pledge. The members had to say whether they had ever driven a tractor for roll call. Mikayla gave the secretary’s report followed by the treasurer’s report given by Lacey.
The members discussed tillage. They talked about tillage machinery and safety around it. They learned that many accidents happen because a person stands between the tractor and the piece of machinery that needs to be hitched.
Some important rules are: 1. Never stand between the tractor and the equipment when the engines are running; 2. Make sure that the driver can see you when giving hand signals; 3. Stand in a safe spot. Make sure you have an escape route if needed; and 4. Bystanders should be kept away from the machinery.
After the discussion the members enjoyed cookies and juice.
2011 J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES PLATINUM WORLDWIDE PLANT QUALITY AWARD RECIPIENT
CAMBRIDGE, ONTARIO (RX), KYUSHU 2 (ES, IS, RX)
“PLATINUM PLANT QUALITY AWARD, WORLDWIDE (IN A TIE)”
2011 J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES U.S. INITIAL QUALITY AWARD RECIPIENT
LEXUS ES: “HIGHEST RANKED ENTRY PREMIUM CAR IN THE U.S.”
2011 J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES ASIA PACIFIC SILVER PLANT QUALITY AWARD RECIPIENT
LEXUS RX, KYUSHU 1, JAPAN “SILVER PLANT QUALITY AWARD, ASIA PACIFIC (TIE)”
CARD OF THANKS
The family of the Late Ralph Butler would like to thank our friends for all the cards, flowers, food and donations and expressions of sympathy given to the family.
Thank you to all who came to the funeral home to celebrate Ralph's life with us. We know he will truly be missed.
Thanks to the nurses at Leamington Hospital and to Dr. Horan, Dr. McCoy, Dr. Quan and Dr. Eldson.
Special thanks to the home care nurses of St. Elizabeth, Reid Funeral Home, Liz Chaplin and Rev. Paul Rodey.
Sincerely, Madeline, Blair, Jay, Dale and Families.
CARD OF THANKS ERNEST REMPEL
Elsie Neufeld and family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, words of support, visits, cards, food, flowers and other acts of kindness over the past few weeks. Your help and thoughtfulness during Ernie’s stay in the hospital as well as his final week in the Mennonite Home were much appreciated. Thanks also to all those who made donations in Ernie’s name. We have been very touched by the generosity of so many people.
Family Day
Fun at Bingo!
Chances’ Bingo Hall in Leamington celebrated Family Day on Monday, February 20 with free bingo for children and adults. Assistant Manager Bonnie Douglas reported that 344 kids and adults enjoyed the free bingo with fun prizes that day. “It’s something we do every year. I think the numbers were up a little from last year… We were very happy with the turnout,” she said. Twelve boxes of donated food items collected as admission will be donated to the Leamington Food Bank.
(Photos submitted)
AUTOMOTIVE
SOUTHPOINT SUN
Vehicle buyers are ONLYprotected by OMVIC and Ontario consumer protection laws when they buy from registered dealers. There's no protection if you buy privately and you risk becoming victim of a curbsider. To verify dealer registration or seek help with a complaint: www.omvic.on.ca or 1-800943-6002.
HELPWANTED
DIRECTSALES REPRESENTA-
TIVES. Canada's premiere home automation and Security Company is NOW hiring April-August. No experience necessary. Travel Required. Email resume kkurtze@vivint.com. Visit: www.vivint.ca
EARNING 25-55k WORTH MUCH MORE? Company seeking experienced people in B2B, Non-for-profit, Trainers. Quarterly bonuses to qualified individuals. 519-564-6477 Tim, timmotruk@hotmail.com.
BUSINESS OPPS.
SUPPLEMENTYOUR INCOME. Do you have 10 hrs/wk you'd like to make productive? Work from the comfort of your home office. Free training & support. www.fromgreen2green.com.
HOME BASED BUSINESS.
Established franchise network, serving the legal profession, seeks selfmotivated individuals. No up-front fees. Exclusive territory. Complete training. Continuous Operational Advertising Support; www.lormit.com.
BUSINESS SERVICES
REACH MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS IN ONTARIO WITH ONE EASYCALL! Your Classified Ad or Display Ad would appear in weekly newspapers each week across Ontario in urban, suburban and rural areas. For more information Call Today Toll-Free 1888-219-2560, Email: k.magill@sympatico.ca or visit: www.OntarioClassifiedAds.com.
DRIVERS WANTED
AZ TRUCK DRIVERS! Westcan has openings for SEASONAL, ROTATIONAL& FULL-TIME professional truck drivers to join our teams in: Edmonton/Calgary/Lloydminster/Sask atoon & Moose Jaw. You have: Minimum 2 years' AZ experience; Btrain experience/Extended trailer length experience; Anhydrous Ammonia/Asphalt or other bulk product experience an asset; Clean driving/criminal record; Pre-employment medical/drug screen. Westcan provides: Competitive wages, travel to/from employment location, Good Operations Bonus and more! Interested? APPLYONLINE AT: www.westcanbulk.ca under the Join our Team link OR phone Toll-Free 1888-WBT-HIRE for further details. Committed to the Principles of Employment Equity.
EMPLOYMENT OPPS.
WEBCO LEDUC - division of Sun Media, requires Full-time Heatset/Coldset Journeyman Pressman. 15 unit Goss Community. Competitive rates and benefits. Email resume: et@webcoleduc.com.
WEBCO LEDUC - division of Sun Media, requires Full-time Heatset/Coldset 1st & 2nd Pressman. 15 unit Goss Community. Competitive rates and benefits. Email resume: et@webcoleduc.com.
Full-Time AZ FASTApproved Company and Owner-Operator Drivers Wanted - Home throughout the week, Competitive rates & benefits, Incentive Program, Paid waiting time & border crossing. Recent Graduates will be considered. TOLLFREE 1-800-567-2609 ext. 230, ext. 208 for Owner-Operator Inquiry. Fax: 519-644-9059, www.elginmotorfreight.com.
SERVICE MANAGER - Hanna Chrysler Ltd. (Hanna, Alberta). Opportunity in a perfect family environment. Strong team, competitive wages, benefits, growth potential. Fax resumes: 403-854-2845. Email: chrysler@telusplanet.net.
CAREER TRAINING
WORK FROM HOME. Largest
Medical Transcriptionist employer in Canada looks to CanScribe for 100 more MT's. We need more students! Enroll Today! 1-800-466-1535. www.canscribe.com. admissions@canscribe.com.
FOR SALE
#1 HIGH SPEED INTERNET$28.95 / Month. Absolutely no ports are blocked. Unlimited Downloading. Up to 5Mps Download and 800Kbps Upload. ORDER TODAYAT www.acanac.ca or CALLTOLL-FREE: 1-866-281-3538.
SAWMILLS from only $3997 - MAKE MONEY& SAVE MONEYwith your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT.
LEGALSERVICES
CRIMINALRECORD? Guaranteed record removal since 1989. Confidential. Fast. Affordable. Our A+ BBB rating assures employment/travel freedom. Call for free information booklet. 1-8-NOW-PARDON (1-866972-7366). RemoveYourRecord.com.
PERSONALS
ARE YOU COMING HOME to the dog/cat every night? Wouldn't an attractive, interesting person be better? MISTYRIVER INTRODUCTIONS. CALLTODAY(519) 6584204, www.mistyriverintros.com. DATING SERVICE. Long-term/shortterm relationships, free to try! 1-877297-9883. Talk with single ladies. Call #7878 or 1-888-534-6984. Talk now! 1-866-311-9640 or #5015. Meet local single ladies. 1-877-804-5381. (18+) TRUE ADVICE! True clarity! True Psychics! 1-877-342-3036 or 1-900528-6258 or mobile #3563. (18+) $3.19/minute; www.truepsychics.ca.
MORTGAGES
1st & 2nd MORTGAGES from 2.90% VRM, 3.19% 5 YR. FIXED. All Credit Types Considered. Let us help you SAVE thousands on the right mortgage! Also, Re-Financing, Debt Consolidation, Home Renovations... Call 1-800-225-1777, www.homeguardfunding.ca (LIC #10409).
$$$ 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).
AS SEEN ON TV - 1st, 2nd, Home Equity Loans, Bad Credit, SelfEmployed, Bankrupt, Foreclosure, Power of Sale or need to Re-Finance? Let us fight for you because "We're in your corner!" CALLThe Refinancing Specialists NOW Toll-Free 1-877-7334424 (24 Hours) or click www.MMAmortgages.com (Lic#12126).
FINANCIALSERVICES
!!! TOYLOANS !!! Preapprovals, by Positive Promotions. ATV's 6.25%, Snowmobiles 6.25%, RV's 5.5%, Marine 5.49%, Automobiles 5.99%. oac. Have FINANCING SECURED before you shop. 1-877-976-3232. www.positivepromotions.ca MoneyProvider.com. $500 Loan and +.
SOUTHPOINT SUN
2 BEDROOM APARTMENT for rentin Kingsville, 124 Division Rd. N. Seniors only. 322-0920 or 3261577. no16-tf
LARGE MAIN FLOOR apartment in fourplex for rent in Wheatley, perfect for quiet couple. Coin laundry on site. First, last & references required. $825 per month. Call 519-322-5567. ja4-tf
FOR RENT INLeamington, April 1st, 2 bedroom basement flat, fridge and stove, laundry hook up, fenced yard, NO PETS, Utilities included $775 per month. Call 519-326-3467 fe15-tf
PLUMBROOK MANOR APARTMENTS
Security Building Fridge & Stove Utilities included For viewing please call 519-322-1924 tf
MEETING
T.O.P.S. - Take Off Pounds
Sensibly. Weigh in from 6 pm - 6:45 pm, meeting from 6:45 pm - 7:30 pm every Monday at Wheatley United Church. Call Cheryl at 519825-9194 or Ellen at 519326-0730 or visit website: www.TOPS.org. Everyone welcome. tf
Pick up and delivery extra. 689 Middleton Line, Wheatley, 519-825-9065. fe1-29c
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
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
ANTENNAS
JACK RICCI ANTENNA SPECIALIST - HDTV antenna systems, satellite dishes, aiming & accessories, specialty and non-denominational free religious programming. TBN 3ABN 7th Day, etc. on G19 satellite, burglar alarms, telephone, paging, intercom and background music systems. Sales and service. Prewire your new house. 519-326-8973, ricci@mnsi.net. fe1-29c
LESSONS
MUSIC LESSONS at Rebel Cowboy in Wheatley. Call 519-825-3330. jn8-tfc
BUSY RV DEALERSHIP looking for RV Technician. Will consider apprentice. Woodworking and plumbing skills an asset.Fax resume to 519-326-6567. au24-tf
LIKE NEW sage coloured chesterfield. Paid $900, will sell for $400.
food banks
Through its Farms to Food Banks Program, United Communities Credit Union (UCCU) purchased $20,000 in locally grown food and distributed it to 20 Windsor-Essex food banks during a giant ‘food-drop’ event held Feb 22.
To date $262,000 has been contributed into the program which has purchased over 461,000 pounds of food for Essex, Huron and Perth Counties.
“We worked with local farmers to purchase apples, potatoes, beef and eggs to provide to area food banks” said Jim Lynn, President and CEO of UCCU. “It’s been five years since we created this program and we are proud of the impact it has had in our region, by helping feed close to 200,000 people since 2007.”
“Our Farms to Food Banks program was also recognized provincially by receiving Concentra Financial’s ‘Empower Your Community’ award. This award injected an additional $10,000 into the program and we couldn’t be more thrilled,” said Liz Arkinstall, Manager Community Relations at UCCU.
“This event highlights the tremendous demand on area food banks, and how the dedication of one company like United Communities can make a huge difference,” stated June Muir, President of the WindsorEssex County Food Bank Association. “We often take for granted that everyone has access to this type of fresh food, and that’s just not the case. Receiving these kinds of items means the world to people.”
100 Days of Classes
Grade 1 and 2 Ruthven Public School students celebrated the 102nd day of school on February 15. Each child completed a project made from 100 objects of their choice. Students were challenged to complete tasks that took 100 seconds. Students were given 100-piece puzzles to complete at home. Friends shared snacks with 100 pieces. At the end of the day, students reported that they felt 100 days smarter! Grade 1 student Lily Wiebe (top) shows her 100th day project that used exactly 100 feathers. Grade 2 student Mitchel Bierer (below) shows his money tree project that used 100 $1.00 bills. (Photos submitted)
Students helped load the food for delivery to area food banks