Southpoint Sun February 3, 2010

Polar Dippers raise $60,000

Twenty-three teams of Polar Dippers splashed into Lake Erie on Saturday, January 30 for the 10th Annual Polar Bear Dip. Teams from Windsor, Essex and Leamington area raised $34,000 for Child Can and Youth & Family Services. Kim Cavers, organizer, stated she was very happy with the amount raised this year. The $34,000 from the teams, added to the money raised at the dinner and dance, totaled approximately $60,000, which matched last year’s total. “That was our goal and I’m so glad we met it,” said Kim.

The team from Highline Mushrooms was the top fundraiser this year bringing in over $6,100. They were the winners of the $1,000 gift certificate from Jack’s in Kingsville. The Leamington Women’s Hockey League won second place which was a $1,000 gift certificate from Caesars Windsor Casino. Chris Kaiser Schiefer was the draw winner of the trip for two to Las Vegas.

In the 10 years since the Polar Bear Dip started more than $400,000 has been raised locally. “When it comes to the amount of money raised, we raise the most in Ontario I think,” said Cavers.

Election buzz starts early

By Sheila McBrayne

Interest has surfaced early for the Leamington Mayor’s position in this year’s Municipal Election slated for Monday, October 25.

John Paterson plans to take his place in the Mayor’s seat this fall as he officially filed his nomination papers with the

Municipality of Leamington on January 22.

John Paterson

Incumbent Mayor John Adams has not filed his nomination papers (yet), but stated that he fully intends to run for his third term in the top spot. Mayor Adams was contacted on his cell phone on Friday, January 29 just prior to his tee-time in Florida. “I’m on holidays and just haven’t done that yet, but I will,” said Adams. This would be Adams’ third term as Mayor having claimed victories in the 2003 and 2006 Municipal Elections.

Paterson, a 55-year-old businessman, says it’s time for him to step up and take the top leadership position in his

hometown. “It’s my own personal belief that we should keep things moving… we shouldn’t hold the same position for too long – I think you have to move up or move on and I honestly think it’s my time to move up,” said Paterson.

Paterson was elected Councillor in the 2006 Municipal Election and has served in that capacity for the past four years. He also served as a Councillor in Leamington from 1982-’85. “And that was during an even worse economic time… mortgages were at 20%, unemployment was at 18%, inflation was about 12%,” said Paterson.

As a Financial Planner, Paterson sees many opportunities for Leamington to grow and expand its services and business opportunities. “I just want to see us do better. So much more could happen here,” said Paterson. “I’ve worked in retail in my dad’s store (Paterson Dry Goods), so I do understand the retail aspect… As a young businessman, I want to see us move ahead,” he stated.

Carol Bell has filed her nomination papers for the position of Councillor. Leamington will elect one Mayor, one Deputy Mayor and five Councillors.

THE NEWS

John Adams

Family Literacy Day...

Nature Fresh Joins...

Anthony leaving...

Listen Saturdays at 6pm and Sundays at 1pm 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 12Rob ThomasSomeday 21Owl CityFireflies 33Train Hey Soul Sister 44NickelbackNever Gonna Be Alone 56LifehouseHalfway Gone 67Kris AllenLive Like You Were Dying 78DaughtryLife After You 89John MayerHeartbreak Warfare 95Kelly ClarksonAlready Gone 1012ShinedownIf You Only Knew 1115Michael BubleHaven’t Met You Yet 1214Taylor SwiftFifteen 1318OrianthiAccording To You 140Uncle KrackerSmile 1513Colbie CaillatFalling For You 1611Kings of LeonUse Somebody 1723Lady GagaBad Romance 1816Black Eyed PeasI Gotta Feeling 1921Boys Like GirlsTwo Is Better Than One 2017P!nk Please Don’t Leave Me

Listen today for your chance to win tickets to The Black Eyed Peas concert!

Last Friday Coffee House at Leamington Arts Centre

Wyma new ERCA GM

Richard Wyma became the new General Manager of the Essex Region Conservation Authority as of February 1.

“Mr. Wyma brings with him more than twenty years

of experience in natural resource management,” stated ERCA Chair Anthony Leardi.

“The staff and Board look forward to working with him as he takes on this leadership role.”

Over the span of his career, Mr. Wyma has focused on parks and conservation, land use and environmental planning, and sustainable development. For the past dozen years, he has served as the Manager of Parks and Conservation Areas for the Government of Nunavut. Some of his accomplishments have included the management and planning of parks and conservation areas within Canada’s most southern and northern regions, negotiating land claim obligations related to protected areas and land use planning, and developing a new park program for Nunavut. He has participated on a number of federal-provincial-territorial parks and conservation committees, including the Canadian Heritage Rivers and the Canadian Council of Ecological Areas. He is also a founding director of the Nunavut Association of Landscape Architects. Prior to his initiation as the first employee of Nunavut Parks, he served as ERCA’s Land Management Supervisor. Since December 1, Mr. Wyma has been transitioning into this new position.

“I am very excited for the opportunity to work towards creating a future of sustainability for the Essex Region,” said Wyma. “Having been raised in this area, it is exciting to see the progress that has been made and I look forward to continuing to advance the critical work of the Conservation Authority and the Foundation.” Richard and his wife Fe and have recently relocated from Frobisher Bay, Iqaluit, back to the Essex Region.

Justin Latam playing the acoustic guitar entertained the full house gathered on Friday, January 29 at the newly renovated Leamington Arts Centre.

(Sun Photo)

Denny Rock and Ken Parks entertained the standing room only crowd with music and comedy in between sets. The Last Friday Coffee House hosted by Dale Butler and Friends is held on the last Friday of every month and features local talent playing original music. The free evening of entertainment is usually held at The Gallery, but was held at the Leamington Arts Centre to show off the recently completed renovations.

(Sun Photo)

Richard Wyma

Anthony leaving Leamington

By Sheila McBrayne

If you have ever been involved in minor sports, the marina, the library, Camp Henry, Leamington transit system or ever entered any of the facilities in the Municipality of Leamington, you have benefitted from the work of Paul Anthony.

After 20 years with the Municipality, Anthony, the Manager of Culture and Recreation Services, is leaving. He handed in his resignation last week after much personal deliberation.

”It was a tough decision to leave Leamington. I was born and raised here and I’m very proud to be a part of this administration… I had the chance to further my career as Director of Parks and Recreation for the Town of Tecumseh,” said Anthony. “The opportunity presented itself and things were right. I really want to thank the community… It was a tough decision I had to make. I’m thankful for the opportunities I’ve had…”

Anthony was hired at the Town of Leamington in January of 1989 as the Marina Manager. From there he moved into the position of Arena Manager of the old arena. In 1999 the amalgamation of Leamington and Mersea Township created a new setup where recreation came under the Department of Community Services. Anthony became the Manager of Recreation and Transit Service. This opened up the scope of his involvement with different groups and organizations within the community.

Anthony served as the municipal liaison with Essex County Library, as well as took care of all janitorial contracts and looked after heating and cooling systems for all municipal buildings. Through the years Anthony has had a hand in many success stories in the area. “When the park was going to close Camp Henry, Leamington took on the sponsorship of Camp Henry and we continued to operate that facility,” he said. Anthony also worked with the overall construction of the twin pad arena and world-class facility, the Frank T. Sherk, Kinsmen Recreation Complex, known by most as The Sherk. Another accomplishment Anthony steered to a successful finish was the search and location of new soccer fields.

“”It was a tough decision to leave Leamington. I was born and raised here and I’m very proud to be a part of this administration…

On the culture side, Anthony is proud of the transformation of the old Post Office into the Leamington Art Centre. “We secured the first grant to put in the elevator and the second grant was used for the renovations… It’s turned into a first-class art exhibit where local artists can show their works,” said Anthony.

Anthony is proud of the Leamington Marina, which has become known over the Great Lakes as a first-class marina.

“I really want to thank all the groups, everybody I’ve worked with, it’s been a pleasure, and remember, I’m not going that far, so I’m sure I’ll see most of them around,” said Anthony. “It’s been a tremendous experience, very valuable and I’m looking forward to new development of their waterfront park and facilities. They’re just finishing their Recreation Master Plan, so there’s plenty to look forward to,” added Anthony.

Anthony also takes pride in the number of special events Leamington has held over the years. “The Air Shows – the Snowbirds would call us because the committee and community was go great to them,” said Anthony. “For a small community, we brought the Beach Boys to Seacliff Park. Who would have thought the Beach Boys would play at Seacliff Park?” added Anthony.

“My goal has been to provide residents the opportunity to use as many of the buildings as possible,” said Anthony. “Some people don’t understand until they come down to see what we have… We have great partnerships with service clubs, businesses, groups, sponsors – we wouldn’t be what we are today without them. And, of course, the staff at Leamington has all been great. They’ve made my job easier over the years.”

At age 53, Anthony is looking forward to his new position, but will always look fondly at his past accomplishments. “It’s been an emotional few days, I

Drivers caught chatting, texting or dialing while behind the wheel will now be slapped with a fine of up to $500. The distracted driving law came into effect three months ago and the grace period is over.

As of Feb. 1, police began handing out tickets to those violating the law. The only exception to the ban is a 9-1-1 call. Meanwhile, hands-free cell phones are legal and global positioning systems are allowed only if they are attached to the dashboard and the destination is keyed in before driving. Studies show that a driver using a cell phone is four times more likely to be in a crash than a driver focused on the road. Dialing and texting have been found to carry the highest degree of risk of all cell phone-related activities.

know everyone, but it’s a move I have to make,” said Anthony. His last day with the Municipality is February 19 and he is scheduled to report to Tecumseh on March 1.

After 20 years with the Municipality of Leamington, Paul Anthony, Manager of Culture and Recreation Services, is leaving for a position in Tecumseh. (Sun Photo)

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY3:

Listen to Country 92.7 CJSP for more events happening in Leamington and Essex County during the Community Calendar 6 times daily or visit www.country 927.com for a complete listing

All you can eat pasta dinner, salad, rolls and butter. 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at Caboto Club, 2175 Parent Ave., Windsor. Raffles, baked goods, prizes. Adults $8; seniors $7.50; kids 5-12 $6; under 4 free; takeout $9. Featuring Clarol the Clown from 6:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Afundraiser for Great Beginnings.

All you can eat pasta night at St. Mary’s Hall, Maidstone, from 5:00 p.m.7:00 p.m. Takeout available. Everyone welcome.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY6:

In celebration of the 2010 Winter Games, the wineries of the Southwestern Ontario Vintners Association (SWOVA) are creating a “Winter Wonderland”, by hosting an array of Ice, Snow and Wine filled activities and events at individual wineries throughout Essex Countyincluding ice sculptures, skating, bonfires, tours, refreshments and more. Admission is free, participating wineries will be collecting canned goods for the local food banks in their areas. For a full list of events and their locations visit www.swova.ca.

Afundraising chicken/pasta dinner and Legends Live Tribute show for Rose City Rhythms Synchronized Skating Club will be held at the Croatian Centre, 5259 Tecumseh Rd. E, Windsor. Entertainers include Elvis by award winning tribute artist “Tim E”, Rod Stewart, Neil Diamond, Tim McGraw and Patsy Cline. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m. and show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35.00 per person and are available at Lady Di’s Dressmaking Shop (4660 Tecumseh Rd. E. Windsor, ON) or by calling 519-948-6877. For additional information or tickets contact 519-562-1832 or 519-945-8170.

“Won’t You Be My Valentine?” at 1:00 p.m. at Leamington Library, ages 710. Register at the library.

Haiti Relief Concert at Blind Dog, Ouellette Ave., Windsor. Non stop musical event, spanning 2 stages featuring some of the greatest local talentShade Stone, Jonathon Roung Band, Finding Core, Jody Raffoul, One Man’s Opinion, Short Notice, Chris Lewis, Strain, Early Cash, Demello Brothers, Jeff Burrows and ITABITH. No breaks all night. Tickets are $10, available at Blind Dog Box Office, Dr. Disc., Ouellette Ave., Windsor, or online at www.canadasrock.ca. All admission proceeds and 10% of refreshment sales are being donated to Canadian Red Cross.

Manulife Walk for Memories in support of Alzheimer Awareness. Do it for the person who went the extra mile for you! 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, 249 Sherk St., Leamington. Get your registration form today and step up to the challenge! This indoor fun walk is a family event - walkers of all ages are welcome. Call 519974-2220, ext. 225 for more information, or visit walkformemories.ca.

E-Waste Collection Event for Computers for Kids from 9AM to 3PM. Windsor/Essex residents are invited to drop off their unwanted computer/electronic equipment. The event is being held at Computers for Kids’ warehouse, 4150 Sandwich Street, Windsor. All equipment dropped off, if not re-usable, will be recycled in a responsible manner to ensure no harm to our environment.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY7:

11th Annual Friends of ALife Worth Living Bowling FUNdraiser at Bowlero. Stevie Wonder’s best friend and inspiration, J. J. Jackson, will bring greetings from Stevie Wonder. Play Bingo bowling! Win Prizes! Fun for the whole family! For every $250 raised or donated a ballot is entered into the Grand Prize draw for 2 International Airline tickets and $1000. Go to www.alifeworthliving.info or call 519 966-0564 for more information and to register.

Nature Fresh joins global effort for relief in Haiti

Nature Fresh Farms in Leamington, Ontario, has teamed up with the Ontario Christian Gleaners (OCG) to help feed the hungry in Haiti.

Nature Fresh Farms donated a surplus crop of peppers to OCG totaling 1560 boxes of peppers, or 7800 kilograms.

The OCG processes surplus produce, dehydrating the food, and makes it into a nutritious soup mix. OCG then donates the food to reputable relief organizations with logistics in place to distribute where it is needed around the world.

OCG manager Shelley Stone says, “Nature Fresh’s donation is by far one of our largest. It really proves how a company can step up and a make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.” Stone announced that Nature Fresh’s donation helped to provide 1.12 million servings of soup, of which 100% has been shipped to Haiti.

Nature Fresh Farms Owner and President Peter Quiring says, “We are happy to have been able to answer this call for help. Like everyone else, we were very moved by the devastation caused by the earthquake. We were extremely pleased to learn that our entire donation was sent to feed the people of Haiti in this great time of need.”

Nature Fresh Farms is a 98-acre greenhouse operation that produces bell peppers and cluster tomatoes. It is located on 150 acres of farmland on the corner of Hwy 77 and Concession 7 in Leamington, Ontario.

All systems are go for LDMBA’s Trivia Night

Put on your thinking caps, brush up on your trivia and get your team ready to compete in Trivia Night 11 on Wednesday, February 24, 7 p.m. at the Portuguese Club in Leamington.

Teams of four will test their knowledge in a variety of topics. The format will consist of 120 questions (twelve rounds of ten questions) ranging in topics such as geography, Canadian history, entertainment, television, arts, sports and more.

The evening is hosted by the Leamington District Minor Baseball Association (LDMBA) with all proceeds to support minor

baseball.

“Teams compete for cash prizes and we have a number of door prizes,” says Sue Holiga, LDMBA president. “Light refreshments will be served; it is a fun evening for everyone.”

The cost to participate in Trivia Night 11 is $80 for adult teams and $60 for high school and elementary school teams.

Teams can register by calling Trivia Night chairperson Jeff Lamotte at 519-322-1379 or by picking up a registration form at Fletcher’s Cleaners in Leamington or from any LDMBA board member.

Nature Fresh Owner and President Peter Quiring is pictured here in one of his greenhouses picking a ripe red bell pepper.

POLICE BEAT

Break-ins plague Leamington Police

The following are the reportable occurrences for the Leamington Police for the period of January 24 - February 1, 2010

January 24 - A Garmin GPS was stolen from a vehicle sometime overnight that was parked on Askew St.

January 25 - Sometime between 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. an Apple laptop was stolen from an unlocked vehicle that was parked in the Princess Centre parking lot.

January 25 - Sometime over the weekend a residence on Wellington was broken into. A flat screen TV and a quantity of jewelry was taken.

January 26 - Sometime over the past 24 hrs a garage on Ontario St was broken into. A mountain bike was taken.

January 29 - Sometime overnight a residence on Oak St was broken into. A computer and Xbox 360 were taken.

January 29 - Sometime after 6 p.m. someone used what appeared to be a paint gun to shoot holes into the siding of a house on Kildeer Rd.

January 30 - Sometime between the past Tuesday and this date a residence on County Road 31 was broken into. An A TV and two guns (taken in a locked safe) were taken. Also, over the past week there were four sheds in residential backyards broken into. Locks were cut off, but nothing of any value was taken.

If you have information on these crimes or any other, please contact the Leamington Police at 519-326-3214 or Crime Stoppers at 519-258-TIPS.

Essex OPP seize two pounds of marijuana

On Friday, January 29 around 4:30 p.m. members of the Western Region Highway Patrol (WRHP), the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau – Drug Enforcement Unit, Essex County OPP, Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Canine conducted a vehicle stop westbound Hwy 401 in Lakeshore. OPP members seized 2 pounds of marijuana and a 2004 Chrysler Concorde as offence related to the property.

As a result of the investigation, Wayne RIVARD (57) from Courtright, Ontario, was arrested and charged with CDSA 5(2) Adult Possession for the Purpose Schedule II over 3kg.

The investigation is continuing and the party has a court date of March 15, 2010, 9:30 am in Chatham at the Chatham Court House.

Slashed Tires in Lakeshore

On January 27 Lakeshore OPP responded to several mischiefs in the County Rd. 22 and Emery Drive area in Lakeshore. Police advised that sometime overnight, unknown suspect(s) punctured 13 tires on four separate vehicles. Police also attended the 1200 block of Shoreline Ave. for 5 trailers, 11 tires that were punctured, and a boat trailer that had 4 tires punctured.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Essex County OPP Crime Unit at 519723-2491 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Drug Seizure in Lakeshore

On Tuesday January 26 around 8 p.m., members of the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau - Drug Enforcement Unit, Essex County OPP, Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Canine Unit executed a warrant in the 500 block of St. Charles Street in Lakeshore. OPP members attended the residence and seized a quantity of prescription drugs and cash.

As a result of the investigation 2 people have been arrested and charged: Peter TALLENT, 51 yrs., from Lakeshore has been charged with CDSA 5(2) Possession for the Purpose Schedule I - Other Drugs

Lloyd PITTONET, 47 yrs., from Lakeshore has been charged with CDSA 5(2) Possession for the Purpose Schedule I - Other Drugs

The investigation is continuing and both parties have a court date of March 15, 2010 9 a.m. Court Room 1 in Windsor at the Windsor Courts. Police remind citizens to call Crime Stoppers if they suspect drug activity in their community.

Leamington

Olympics celebration relived DVDs on sale now!

A documentary highlighting Leamington’s December 23rd Olympic Torch Relay Celebration will be broadcast on TV COGECO CABLE 11 on Friday, February 5 at 1 p.m. and again on Sunday, February 7 at 10:30 p.m. and Tuesday, February 9 at 9 p.m.

On Wednesday, December 23rd thousands of people attended the Torch Relay Route and Celebration and hundreds watched Kevin Reid carry the torch proudly onto the stage to light the Olympic cauldron. It was breathtaking. It was a festive morning that Leamington will remember fondly.

For those who may have been away on holidays who were not able to brave the cold, or who would just like to relive the Olympic Torch Relay experience, now you can! The DVD of the Leamington Torch Relay Celebration will be available for $20 (cash only) at the front desk of the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex starting Wednesday, February 3. The DVD was filmed by J Media Imaging of Leamington.

Local birth Announcements

from

Leamington District Memorial Hospital

WIEBE – Katharina and Bernhard, Leamington, a boy, December 18

SZATORI – Lyrissa, Leamington, a girl, December 19

BERG – Elizabeth and Herman, Comber, a boy, December 28

ENNS – Trudy and Abe, Wheatley, a girl, January 1

HAMM – Tina and Aeb Elias, Leamington, a girl, January 3

DYCK – Barbi and Pete, Leamington, a girl, January 7

FISCHER – Jennifer and Aaron, Kingsville, a girl, January 8

WOUDWYK – Amanda and Sean Beneteau, Leamington, a boy, January 9

CHOWDRY – Etif and Kinga, Leamington, a boy, January 11

WILLMS – Lauren and Shawn Hamelin, Leamington, a girl, January 12

GIROUX – Kristine and Frank Frohman, Leamington, a girl, January 16

REMPLE – Aganetha and Peter, Leamington, a boy, January 18

MATTHEWS – Susan and Aaron, Wheatley, a girl, January 21

JAYNES - Chad and Elodie Jaynes, Leamington, boy, January 28

Now that’s cold!

I’m not a daredevil, but I’ve done some pretty far-out things in my 40 years. I’ve white water rafted on the Ottawa River; bungee jumped 150 feet into water; parasailed over the ocean; zip-lined through the forests of Costa Rica; downhill skied on a mogul run; and hiked a rainforest in Panama, but none of those feats compare to last Saturday’s Polar Dip.

Yes, I was one of the brave (or questionably sane) ones who took the big plunge into Lake Erie for the 10th annual Polar Dip. Cold does not even begin to describe the feeling of your skin burning from the cold (yes, burning from the cold). If you think Lake Erie is cold in the summer, well let me ASSURE you that it is freezing cold in January. I promise from this day forward I’ll never complain about cool pool water.

I’ve got to say, I’m not a fan of the cold. I like to vacation where it’s hot in the middle of winter. Obviously I knew it was going to be cold, but I don’t know what really prepares you for that kind of cold! My shorts and hockey shirt froze before I could get them off, which made the strategy of a “quick change” a little more difficult.

The good news is that the pain and discomfort associated with the polar dip is temporary and by choice, unlike the thousands of children who battle cancer every day, and that’s what it’s really all about. All the funds raised from the Polar Dip go to ChildCan and Youth & Family Resource Network - two great causes that help kids beat cancer and provide support for local families. An hour of discomfort is nothing to ask of an able-bodied adult who has never had a child suffer with cancer and cancer treatments. I am thankful. And to those who have braved through the ordeal with their kids, I respect your attitude and admire your strength.

At the end of the day, or should I say at the end of the very brief few minutes that it took to actually do the Polar Dip, it was all worth it! The teams who raised pledges for the event raised more than $34,000 and that doesn’t include the money raised from the dinner and dance held later that night. Last year the event raised $60,000 and $80,000 the year before that! That’s just awesome!

For anyone who has thought about taking the plunge, do it; you’ll be glad you did! I can honestly say that I would never ski the moguls again, nor would I EVER bungee jump again, but you can count me in for next year’s Polar Dip!

Of memories, musings and tours of duty in Leamington

If my name rings a bell… go ahead and salivate. Before I serve up some thoughts this week, allow for a bit of a reset. I advocate for community newspapers and I see their tremendous worth to a community as a voice for local citizens and as an opinion leader. Your hometown paper is a scrapbook for proud parents and grandparents, a mirror of community reflection and the “tie that binds”, sharing and celebrating the experience of living in this unique, precious corner of the world.

This is a vision not shared, not genuinely, by the faceless, heartless, hopeless, money grubbing, cost driven, detached, disengaged, arrogant and dysfunctional corporate athletes who have paid a King’s ransom for the rights to acquire our Grandma’s good china only to smash it to smithereens. And honestly, I don’t even know what a smithereen is. But enough ranting about the proprietors of what is now Baltic Avenue. There’s a new rag in this town. And there will be more independent community newspapers in many other towns across the land too. Obviously, they wouldn’t exist if somebody was standing their post. Just saying, and I could have it wrong.

I’d be remiss not to mention my two tours of duty at the sound of the Sun Parlour, CHYR. Back in 1980 to ’82, I was

“the minimum wage rage”, trucking the hits on the mighty 7. This was back in the AM “now switch your dial” days of

Lou Tomasi, Chuck Reynolds and not much to eat.

I did make some good friends. My

friend and former roommate in the day, Mike Sedlak, has resurfaced in my life after more than 25 years. He and his wife now live in Goderich and we’ve become Bubba Shrimp buddies again.

Second tour of duty? Talk about friendships, Terry Regier, who became the general manager of CHYR FM (now the Mix) invited me back into the building and radio in 2003.

Small world, eh? But who has time to paint it?

Leamington has indeed changed a bunch since I last pulled up a stool at the V.I., shot pool with Curly Clark and bought my smokes at the Big Nickel. Good knowing that Curly is still alive and well, as is the Big Nickel at last check. Strippers and smokes, not so much. Once my own girls became

age eligible for the pathetic existence to be ogled by pervs, drunks and curious adolescents, I lost my appetite for the art form. And smoking? Just more butts to turn my back on. Does the Heinz whistle still remind us that it’s time for dinner? Along the path of my 49 years, a former Leamington lad popped into my life. Larry Balkwell was the coach of my son’s baseball team in Chatham. My son could catch and throw a bit, but couldn’t hit a lick, nor beat a fat man running up a hill. I do love him so. Coach Larry played him still, while enthusiastically encouraging him to work on his game. Today my son works on his game-boy. And what was the fate of Casey’s teammate Larry Balkwell Jr. a.k.a. L.B.J.? Mmm… he signed with the Detroit Tigers.

Speaking of baseball, Andre Dawson, bless his heart, has decided to become the very first Hall of Famer to don the Montreal Expo cap for induction. He won the MVP as a Cub and played 6 years there. However, he also toiled for 11 seasons at the Big O.

Man I love baseball, especially at this time of year. Just the other day I paid a visit to my mother in-law. I just wanted to hear “one more crack from the old bat.”

Next time, I’ll spin a bit more gold, dispense some courageous opinion and run with scissors.

Editor Sheila McBrayne

Watson

O’Donovan

Life was like a box of chocolates

“What’s my destiny, Mama?” “You’re gonna have to figure that out for yourself.” Last week, not only did I watch ‘Forrest Gump’ for the umpteenth time, but I had a stimulating conversation with one of my nieces about existentialism. Existentialism is a philosophy based on the thought that at first we exist and then we go through our life trying to find ourselves and the meaning of our life through free will, choice, and personal responsibility.

In many ways Forrest lived a life that followed some of the existential concepts, and in many other ways he did not.

Lifestyles Lifestyles

Forrest was profiled by many to be simple. Personally, I question this. There is a depth to Forrest that many a scholar does not possess. “I’m not a smart man… but I know what love is.” Was this difference an obstacle or a freedom? Either way, he was able to stay true to himself as an individual. “Do you ever dream Forrest, about who you’re gonna be?” “Aren’t… aren’t I going to be me?”

Really, who else are we suppose to be but ourselves?

Forrest’s desires were not for wealth, and he seemed to accept what was. That was good enough for him. Ironically, he added to the wealth of his life financially as well. “And cuz I was a gazillionaire, and I liked doin’ it so much, I cut that grass for free.” His buddy had invested their money from the Bubba Gump Shrimp business into a fruit business – Apple Computers. Go figure!

Forrest got the most from life. He was dedicated to his mother, his girl Jenny and to his friends. He was awarded medals of honour for his dedication to the army and won championships in ping-pong. The game of ping-pong could be a metaphor for Forrest’s life. He never took his eye off the ball and didn’t stop until it was over. “Mama always said, dying was a part of life. I sure wish it wasn’t.”

People questioned Forrest’s intelligence. His answer to them was always, “Stupid is as stupid does”. Isn’t that true? The world would be a lot gentler if we were more responsible for our actions than for the way we look.

When contemplating the notion of existentialism, I think the words Forrest spoke at Jenny’s grave explain life’s purpose beautifully. “I don’t know if we each have a destiny or if we’re all just floating around accidental-like on a breeze, but I think maybe it’s both. Maybe both is happening at the same time.”

“That’s all I have to say about that.”

SOUTHPOINT SAYS...

What’s your favourite Olympic sport and why?

Asked at Leamington District Secondary School cafeteria

Kayla Girouard Gr. 10, LDSS

“Figure skating and skiing because I go skiing every year and it’s fun to watch.”

Jasmin Miscoiu Gr. 10, LDSS

“I like figure skating because I was a figure skater myself.”

Kyle Zacharias Gr. 10, LDSS

“Snowboarding because it’s intense!”

Email of the Week

Jaret Chalmers Grade 9, LDSS

“Definitely snowboarding! Seems like the most entertaining.”

We all get emails from friends, co-workers and some people we have no idea how they ever got our email address. Well, this section is dedicated to publishing those emails that really make you think twice about life, or just make you laugh. The best ones are usually anonymous, so enjoy and send us your favourite email story.

Email The Southpoint Sun at sun@mnsi.net.

The mayonnaise jar...and the beer

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar...and the beer.

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, silently he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.

So the professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar.

Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous “yes.” The professor then produced two cans of beer from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed.

“Now,” said the professor, as the laughter subsided, “I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life.

The golf balls are the important things - God, your family, your children, your health, your friends, your favorite passions - things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house, your car. The sand is everything else - the small stuff.”

“If you put the sand into the jar first,” he continued, “there isn’t room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you.”

“Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house, and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf balls first, the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is justsand.”

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the beer represented. The professor smiled, “I’m glad you asked,” he said.

“It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there’s always room for a couple of beers.”

Anthony Leardi acclaimed ERCA Chair

Anthony Leardi has been acclaimed as the 2010/2011 Chair of the Essex Region Conservation Authority. Leardi, an appointed representative and former Deputy Mayor from the Town of Amherstburg, has been a member of ERCA’s Board of Directors since 2000.

Leardi expressed his pleasure at his election. “I look forward to continuing ERCA’s tradition of regional cooperation towards a sustainable future,” he said.

Called to the Bar in 1998, Mr. Leardi is a practicing lawyer who has earned degrees from McGill University, the University of Windsor and the University of Western On-

tario.

He served two terms on Amherstburg Town Council before choosing to devote more time to his practice of law. He is an active member of the Canadian Italian Business and Professional Association, the Verdi Club, the Knights of Columbus, and the Essex Law Association.

Together with his wife Jacqueline, he volunteers his time counselling couples on marriage and financial issues. They have three young children at home.

Councillor Percy Hatfield from the City of Windsor was elected as the Vice Chair.

Storytime at library

Storytime is Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Leamington Library at 10:30 a.m. Parents and caregivers and their 3 - 5 year-olds enjoy an hour of reading stories and playing games. Pictured here, from left to right are, Nicole Journeau with Jordyn Delisle and Jordan Journeau, and Patty Delise with young Logan Delisle. (Sun Photo)

Key step in dialysis project

Work has begun on a new public parking lot across from the emergency department and main entrance at Leamington District Memorial Hospital. The new lot will encompass the corner of Fader and Lamarsh and will provide more convenient parking for the public due to its location across from the main hospital entrance.

The main entrance was relocated to the Fader Street entrance in fall 2009 in order to make way for the new dialysis unit.

“This will provide much more convenient parking and access for the public,” states John P. Stenger, CEO of LDMH.

Stenger also reports that construction plans for the new dialysis unit are well underway and anticipates the project starting in spring 2010.

“We have just submitted the final stage of approval to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. We anticipate this review will take 6 to 8 weeks. Once we receive sign-off by the Ministry we will be able to take the project to tender,” he said.

The satellite dialysis unit at LDMH will be a 6-station satellite unit of the Hotel Dieu-Grace Hospital’s regional dialysis unit. Initially the hospital will provide treatment to twelve patients three times per week – Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Move aimed at protecting local commercial fisheries

Chatham-Kent-Essex MPP Pat Hoy is in full support of a move by the Ontario government to back legal efforts by Michigan and other American states to prevent the spread of Asian carp into the Great Lakes.

“Our commercial and sport fisheries in the Great Lakes are a $2.3-billion business, and the Asian carp could devastate our stocks,” said Hoy in a news release.

“The move by the province recognizes the significant economic threat these fish pose to the province’s fisheries.”

In some parts of Illinois, Asian carp now make up more than 90% of the fish population and concerns are that if drastic action isn’t taken, other states and provinces will be similarly affected.

A legal brief from the province has been filed with the United States Supreme Court supporting Michigan’s motion for a preliminary injunction to close the locks in the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. The closure is one of a number of measures sought by Michigan to keep the invasive species from passing into Lake Michigan.

“Invasive species don’t respect international borders. The potential impact of Asian carp on Ontario’s economy and ecosystems is a serious concern,” said Natural Resources Minister Donna Cansfield, in a news release.

“We stand with our American colleagues in supporting all steps necessary to prevent their entry into the Great Lakes.”

Recreational and commercial fishing are vital to Ontario’s economy, providing jobs and recreation for many Ontarians.

Approximately 1.4 million anglers fish in the province each year, spending more than $2.3 billon dollars annually on fisheries-related expenditures.

The commercial fishery in the Great Lakes is valued at about $200 million annually.

The U.S. Supreme Court will determine Ontario’s participation in the proceedings.

To date, Indiana, New York, Wisconsin, Ohio and Minnesota have all backed the Michigan action.

In 2004, Ontario banned the buying and selling of live Asian carp.

More information is available at www.invadingspecies.com, a partnership between the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and other organizations to raise public awareness of non-native species introduced to Ontario.

LDMH receives 3 Year Accreditation

The Board of Directors at their regular meeting of January 26 received the final Accreditation Report which awarded the hospital with a 3 Year Accreditation.

The staff and physicians were thrilled by the positive comments of the Surveyors. The surveyors congratulated Leamington District Memorial Hospital (LDMH) on its leadership, staff commitment and organization-wide quest for improvement. The Surveyors comments are found throughout the body of the report and included the following highlights:

• The Organization is commended for its Strategic Plan Outlook 2020 and the comprehensive and inclusive process that it followed in developing the Plan. The Organization has identified partners using this process for the integration of some services with other health care providers.

• The governing body has concrete Action Plans to address the funding shortfall, including a realignment of services, defining its role and establishing partnerships with other hospitals.

• The integration with Hotel Dieu Grace Hospital (HDGH) is seen by the staff as being very positive. It enables them to introduce best practice and evidence based medicine.

• The accomplishments in voluntarily integrating servic-

es with HDGH and other local health integrated network (LHIN) providers are remarkable.

Staff at all levels feel that this is a positive initiative resulting in improvements for quality of care and access provided to the community.

• The team has made tremendous efforts in providing information to the inter professional teams. Accreditation is a process that provides health organizations with an external peer review to assess the quality of their services based on standards of excellence.

In receiving the report, Board Chair John Cervini commented “that the results were outstanding having met 95.1% of the quality criteria and dimensions.” He further stated “the enormous amount of preparation work undertaken has contributed to the positive results and the staff and physicians are to be commended.

The staff and physicians at LDMH will continue to ensure patient safety, improve patient outcomes and commit to patient satisfaction. LDMH’s Mission - LDMH is dedicated to improving the health status of the people we serve. With compassion and in partnership with others we will strive to provide quality, continuity of service and excellence in healthcare.

MPP PAT HOY

Cardinal Carter teacher wins Education Award

By Sheila McBrayne

“As educators, I think it’s in our best interest to instill a love and respect for nature,” said Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School teacher Paul Georges after receiving the Parks Canada Ambassador For Education Award.

Mr. Georges was nominated for the national award by Tammy Clarke, Point Pelee National Park Education Facilitator. “Mr. Georges is a fantastic teacher. When you observe the interactions between him and his students it speaks volumes to his integrity and the effectiveness of his teaching methods. He receives outstanding ratings when evaluated by his students. He is also very passionate about protecting the environment and protecting and supporting the resources we have in our own backyard, like Point Pelee National Park,” Clarke said in her nomination letter.

Mr. George is in his 25th year as a teacher, having taught 15 years at St. Anne’s, Tecumseh, and 10 years at Cardinal Carter. As the Department Head at Cardinal Carter, Mr. Georges has worked with the Education Centre at Point Pelee and with the Essex Regional Conservation Authority to create hands-on learning opportunities for his students.

“When you enjoy what you do, life is easy; life is good,” said Mr. Georges.

“The National Parks system really captures the beauty of Canada… For us to have Point Pelee in this area, it’s like an oasis right here in our own backyard. I try to take advantage of that any time I can,” said Mr. Georges.

Part of the curriculum from the Ministry of Education is to appreciate the integrity of the National Parks. Mr. Georges has organized many excursions with students to Point Pelee. “Mr. Georges has been a huge supporter of Point Pelee for over a decade. Over the past 10 years he has brought over 1,000 students to Point Pelee through various work programs such as the “Seed Collection Program” in partnership with the Essex Region Conservation Authority, the Great Canadian Shoreline Clean-up, the OAC Environmental Assessment Program, the Grade 9 GPS program and hikes with interpreters. He is always very interested in what Point Pelee is doing and enjoys bringing his students to the park, where he truly tries to “foster a culture of conservation” amongst his students,” stated Clarke in her recommendation for Mr. Georges.

Mr. Georges received his award during a “surprise” presentation at the school. His family was invited to share in the honour and helped keep the secret. “I didn’t know anything about it. It surprised me… I certainly don’t do this on my own. There’s many of my colleagues who have also done great work with students. I’ve worked with, and do work with wonderful colleagues; we feed off each other’s enthusi-

Spring restoration opportunities

Do you own land that you would like to convert to forest, wetland or other wildlife habitat at very low cost? Do you know of someone (or an organization), that does? If so, the time to act is now! The Essex Region Conservation Authority’s habitat restoration team is looking for natural habitat creation opportunities for the spring of 2010.

With only 7.5% of Essex County in natural areas, we need your help in order to achieve our goal of 12% natural areas cover, which has been stated by the United Nations to be vital for any region to be healthy and sustainable. You can contribute to achieving this target - leading to a greener and healthier Essex region - by restoring natural habitat on your property. Enjoy nature walks and watch wildlife flock to the area as the habitat develops over time. Profit from the increase in land values that result from naturalizing a portion of your property. Feel pride in knowing that you’re helping to improve the region’s environmental health in many ways, including cleaner water and air. “Talk to your neighbours and friends,” encourages Matthew Child, ERCA’s Director of Watershed Restoration. “If you or anyone you know is interested in planting trees or restoring other types of habitat on at least 1 acre of property, ERCA’s Clean Water~Green Spaces grants are available to fund up to 90% of the project cost.”

For grant information and an application form, please go to the following link: http://www.erca.org/downloads/ clean_water_green_spaces.pdf or contact Kathryn Arthur, Restoration Biologist at 519-776-5209 ext. 303 or karthur@ erca.org at any time.

asm and share it with our students,” said Mr. Georges. “With all the gaming and high-tech gadgets students have, they don’t always want to be outdoors, but once you get them out there, they become very enthusiastic,” said Mr. Georges.

Mr. Georges also shared the spotlight with Parks Canada and their staff. “I think it (the award) is a testament to Point Pelee National Park… it reflects on their educational program. They put out information to complement our school curriculum,” said Mr. Georges.

The Parks Canada Ambassador Award is given to an educator who helps Parks Canada connect with youth and works to instill an appreciation in those students for the people, places and events that reflect Canada.

Paul George and Tammy Clarke.

Fax resume to 519-326-4167 or Drop Off to 1 Iroquois Rd., Leamington

Struggling

Just Sweet Enough helps families cope with juvenile diabetes

When a child is diagnosed with Type 1 Juvenile

Stacey Omstead-DiNiro of Wheatley understands all of that and in her self-

illustrated book, Just Sweet Enough, she does families affected by childhood diabetes an enormous service. Omstead-DiNiro tells the story of young Rory Jameson (aka Rory DiNiro), who awakes one morning with a camel’s thirst. He drinks all the milk in the fridge, then he drinks all the juice, and then he nearly drains the tap of all its water. And then after all that he has to run to the bathroom.

His parents are quite naturally worried. They pile the whole family into the van and head for the doctor’s office, where they learn that Rory is “just a little too sweet.” Yes, he has Type 1 Juvenile Diabetes, and the sugar levels in his blood are just too high.

To keep the diabetes under control, Rory must check into a hospital for a week. He will need regular, healthy meals and insulin injections three times a day. And exercise will help, too.

But can Rory and his family cope? Of course, they can. Rory can still swim every day; he can still play soccer with his buddies at school; and he can still play hockey, with his Dad coaching on the bench. He can live a normal life just like any other kid.

It’s been almost five years since Rory was diagnosed with diabetes and life is “sweet” for Rory, now 10 years old and a Grade 5 student at Wheatley Area Public School. Rory managed the first two years taking three to four insulin needles a day. For the past three years Rory has used the insulin pump,

which works like a tap as it drips insulin all the time. With this device, Rory (with help from his parents or the school nurse) simply enters the grams of carbohydrates he consumes and the pump administers the units of insulin needed.

“The needles used to hurt,” said Rory. But the pump elimi-

nates the needles. Rory simply connects the pump to a catheter, which is relocated about every three days to a new site.

“It’s still like a needle, but it’s once every three days instead of three times a day… He has so much more freedom and can eat when he wants as long as it’s entered… It’s a lot less regimented,” said Omstead-DiNiro.

Rory plays centre for the Southpoint Atom A’s, who just won the International Silver Stick, and he enjoys competitive swimming with the Tilbury Vikings in the summer. “It hasn’t held him back at all,” said Omstead-DiNiro.

Omstead-DiNiro’s book cuts right to the chase for families living with the uncertainty of diabetes: with proper care, proper nutrition and proper blood-sugar monitoring, Type 1 Juvenile Diabetes is simply a challenge to be met; it is not an obstacle impossible to overcome.

This is a book that will be appreciated by youngsters whose lives have been affected by diabetes. It is a book for their brothers and sisters as well, and it is most certainly a book for their parents.

Since the publication of this book, its circulation was given a real boost when Abbott Pharmaceuticals purchased 3,000 copies, which they give to newly diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes patients.

The book is available on-line at www.chapters.ca, www. amazon.ca or www.volumesdirect.com.

Rory holding the Silver Stick trophy his team recently won.

Leamington boys basketball teams go pro for a day

By Sheila McBrayne

The senior boys basketball team from Leamington District Secondary School, along with their friendly rivals at Cardinal Carter Secondary School, tipped off at centre court at the Palace of Auburn Hills recently in a fun game.

After the LDSS Lions’ fantastic season last year (lost in the finals), the team organized a Pistons Party where they traveled to Detroit to watch the Pistons play. While there the boys found themselves as the “Tunnel Fans”. Coach George Egglezos met the marketing representative from the Pistons and has been working (e-mailing back and forth) since then to organize a game where the Lions would play a basketball game at The Palace and then enjoy a Pistons game afterwards. As part of the deal, LDSS had to sell 250 game tickets at a discounted price.

Mr. Egglezos contacted neighbouring Cardinal Carter, who also plays in the Tier 2B division with LDSS, to play in this awesome away game. Cardinal Carter helped sell half the tickets and helped make the day possible. “It was a great event! The players felt like they were MBA stars playing on the big court… They were in the players dressing rooms and met some of them up close,” Mr. Egglezos.

Both coaches made sure that every player had equal playing time to fully enjoy the experience. “It’s a healthy rivalry. They respect each other and showed great sportsmanship. It was just really, really fun for everyone and it’s nice how the schools work together,” said Mr. Egglezos. Ken Ambrose, outside coach for the Lions, was also there to concentrate on the game and share in the fun of sitting on an MBA bench.

After the two Leamington teams made their professional debut, the Pistons played the Philidelphia 76ers with 250 Leamington fans cheering them on.

The LDSS Lions have a 12-game schedule this year in the Tier 2B divison and are currently “staying competitive” says Mr. Egglezos. The team sits at three wins and six losses, but the proud coach pointed out that five of those losses were crossover games into the higher Tier 2A division. “We have three games left in our own tier, so we should finish all right,” he said.

Atom A’s win International Silver Stick

The Atom A’s wrapped up a three-week journey that started at the Alvinston Silver Stick Regional and ended in Sarnia at the Silver Stick International finals, in double overtime to boot.

The Southpoint Atom A team came home to congratulations from well-wishers and supporters on winning the very coveted and hard-to-win tournament.

In the first game in the finals, the Atoms took on the Dallas Penguins and came away with a convincing 7-0 win. Goals came from Jack Hannigan, Brayden Klemens, Luc Ribble and Rory DiNiro (4). Assists were from Cameron Richmond, Brett Enns, Luc Ribble, Spencer Wiebe and Evan Loveless (2).

Game two brought the Westchester Vipers from Pennsylvania. Different team, same score: 7-0. Goals were by Rory DiNiro, Brayden Klemens, Luc Ribble, Brett Enns (2) and Cameron Richmond (2). Assists were from Dawson Iles, Jessica Jeffery, Rory DiNiro, Evan Loveless, Luc Ribble (2) and Brayden Klemens (3).

Southpoint faced off against the Kanata Blazers (Ottawa area) in game three with Southpoint prevailing 2-1. Goals

were by Luc Ribble and Brett Enns, assisted by Jack Hannigan and Luc Ribble.

In the semi-final the Whitby Wildcats came at Southpoint with everything they had. In a tight 1-0 game the winning goal came from Rory DiNiro, assisted by Brett Enns.

The championship final game brought memories of the Canada versus U.S. game that was played over the holidays. Taking on the Omaha Jr. Mavericks, the team was put to the test once again.

The game went into double overtime when Dante DiMilo made a great save to spur on Brayden Klemens to put one past their goalie, bringing home the Silver Stick. Finals score was 3-2. Other goals were scored by Brett Enns and another by Brayden Klemens, with assists from Evan Loveless, Luc Ribble, Dawson Iles and Rory DiNiro.

All-Star Forward went to Luc Ribble for excellence throughout the tournament.

The whole team performed in order to win the Silver Stick. With only 3 goals against and 20 goals for in 5 games, the team placed its name on a plaque that will be displayed in the Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.

Peewee AEs sweep Tecumseh in playdowns

The Hub International Southpoint Atom A/E Capitals have advanced to quarter-finals of the O.M.H.A. playdowns.

The Capitals hosted Tecumseh Eagles in Wheatley on Saturday afternoon. Southpoint knew Tecumseh would not surrender easily. The Caps came out strong and dominated from start to finish in a 5-1 victory.

Each and every player contributed to the win. Brennan Hancock led the team with 5 points in one of his best games of the season, scoring 3 and assisting on the other 2 goals, both scored by the high flying Joseph Alfano.

The Southpoint team wanted to finish off Tecumseh at home and proved to be the better team. Cameron Stockton played an awesome game in net once again. Cameron has really picked up his game in the playoffs to help his team eliminate the Tecumseh Eagles.

The Atom A/E Capitals will now wait to play the winner of the Windsor and LaSalle series. Good luck boys and girls!

Stars dominate in 15-1 win over Belmont

By Mackenzie Heyens

The big weekend started on Saturday when the Southpoint Stars played the Sarnia Intermediate BB Stings. It was a tough game and the girls held their own against the older team. Spectacular goaltending went to Carleigh Manning with the shots being evenly matched on both sides of the ice. Unfortunately, the game ended in a 1-0 defeat for the Stars.

The next day, the girls travelled to Dorchester to play the Belmont Blades C team. The first period started out a little shaky, but quickly picked up within the first half. The Stars easily dominated the ice and came out on top for a 15-1 win.

The birthday girl, Kaitlyn Pinch, and Kayla Lindsay each scored four goals with assists from Kaily Zack, Shailyn Waites, Jillian Iles, Charlee Cabral, Pinch and Ashley Leipold.

The hattrick went to Iles, all assisted by Waites, who also got two goals of her own. Singles went to Kayla Leipold and Zack, with assists by Amanda Stasko and Kayla DiSchiavo.

Great games, girls. For updated schedules or more team info, check out the girls’ website www.southpointminorhockey.com or www.mywoghl.com.

Bantam Majors lead series

2-1 over Amherstburg

The Southpoint Bantam Majors grabbed a 2-1 series lead over Amherstburg Stars with a 4-3 overtime win on home ice Sunday. The Caps opened up a 3-0 lead with four minutes to go in the third period before penalty trouble let the Stars back in the game.

With the Caps down six skaters to three, the Amherstburg team scored three times to force overtime. Two minutes into the sudden death overtime frame, Hayden Loveless kept the puck in at the blue line and Taylor Omstead found Mitchell Prudence in the slot, who roofed the game winner. Bryan Bradley had a superb game in net for the Caps and made many outstanding saves to earn the win.

Southpoint opened the scoring when Mitchell Prudence out-hustled the Stars defender to saucer a nice pass to Branden McKeen, who deeked the goalie. Cale Phibbs had a strong game for the Caps, scoring twice, once unassisted and the second assisted by Tyler Lamb.

In the opening game of the series, the Caps controlled most of the play and came out on top with a 3-1 victory. Bryan Bradley was in net for Southpoint and held the Stars shooters to just one goal.

The Caps opened the scoring in the first when Eric Taylor out-muscled the Stars defender in the corner and fed Omstead, who fired a one-timer into the net. The Stars tied the score early in the second before Prudence deflected a Brian Whaley point shot into the top corner. Ian Faubert capped off the scoring with six minutes to go in the third period, with an assist to Prudence.

In game two of the series, the Caps travelled to Amherstburg to play in the old barn on Friday night. This was a wide-open affair with the first period ending in a 2-2 tie. Prudence opened the scoring with Omstead getting the second, scoring on a breakaway.

The second period ended tied at three with Cale Phibbs picking up the Caps goal on an unassisted effort. Phibbs put the Caps ahead 4-3 with less than ten minutes to play in the third, with assists to Loveless and Faubert. Once again the Caps ran into penalty trouble and the Stars capitalized, scoring twice in the final six minutes to gain the 5-4 victory. Alex Tokarewicz was in net for the Caps and was tagged with the loss.

The Caps travel to Amherstburg on Friday evening and will try to end the series on the home ice of the Stars.

Back row, left to right: Head Coach Jamie DiNiro, Trainer Gary Klemens, Assistant Coach Jerry Ribble, Assistant Coach

Jeff Enns, Manager Dan Santos. Third row: Ryan Wall, Jessica Jeffery, Jack Hannigan, Rory DiNiro, Evan Loveless, Darrin

DiMenna, Cameron Richmond, Brett Thomas, Luc Ribble. Second row: Brett Enns, Dawson Iles, Spencer Wiebe, Brayden Klemens, Gioia DiCiocco. Front row: Cristian Santos and Dante DiMilo.

(Photo Submitted)

Bowman, Eric Prudence,

Peewees win International Silver Stick

On January 21, the Gabriele Southpoint Peewee hockey club travelled to Port Huron, Michigan, to compete for the prestigious International Silver Stick title. The Capitals were able to win five of their six games against some of the best teams in Ontario and the U.S.A., earning them the much sought-after prize.

Game one was a lopsided battle with the Colorado Springs Jr. Tigers. Southpoint controlled most of the game and had too much offense for the Tigers to handle, winning the tilt 7-0. A hattrick for Calyn Kir and 5-point performances by Michael Travis and Dylan Enns helped the team get the win, but spirited defensive play from Matt Taylor and Matthew Warkentin, along with the back-checking efforts from Quentin Adams and Quinn Bowman, helped shut down the Tigers pursuit. Mitchell Monaco played well to earn the shutout.

Game two was a closer match-up versus the North Jersey Avalanche. The Capitals defensemen, along with goaltender Tyler Wall, earned the team another shutout victory by a score of 3-0. Travis, Enns and Eric Prudence provided the scoring, with assists to Bailey Loveless (2), Daniel White and Travis.

The two wins were enough to earn the team a chance in the playoff round of the tournament, setting the stage for a tired-looking game three. Southpoint faced the Orillia Terriers and was unable to find the same energy as in the previous games, which contributed to the loss.

Noah Santos scored the team’s only goal with an assist to Prudence. The loss seeded the team second in their pool and meant facing the first-place Sarnia Jr. Sting in the quarterfinals.

Southpoint found their energy in this second game of the day, beating the Sting 3-1. Enns, Travis and White scored with assists to Devin Scratch, Riley Enns, D. Enns, D.J. Wales and Kir.

In the semifinals the Caps met the Dorchester Dragons and fought extremely hard to earn a 3-2 victory. A pair of goals from D. Enns and a single from Santos found the team the 3-0 lead, but late goals by the Dorchester team made for an exciting finish. Wall was very sharp in net, holding off the late onslaught and earning the team the trip to the finals.

The table was set for Southpoint to face the Blackhawks from Santa Clara, California, who had two of the tournament’s leading scorers. The lead changed hands between the teams with Southpoint starting the scoring midway through the first. The Blackhawks answered with two to end the period.

The boys showed their opponents what teamwork and determination was all about, and early in the second Travis scored on a nice outlet from Daniel Warkentin to tie the game. The end result: goals from D. Enns (2), Travis (2) and D.J. Wales helped the team earn a 5-4 win and the honour of being crowned International Silver Stick Peewee A Champions.

Dylan Enns was named MVP of the game and honoured on the tournament all-star list. Tyler Wall was also honoured as a tournament all-star and named tournament goalie MVP. Every player on the Southpoint roster contributed to the overall success.

The tournament was a wonderful experience for these young players, their coaches and their supporters, and will be a proud moment for all of them to share for years to come.

Lavoie qualifies for Junior Nationals

Thirteen-year-old Cody Lavoie recently qualified for the Canadian Jr. Swim Nationals being held in Winnipeg, Manitoba July 23.

Cody, a Grade 8 student at Wheatley Area Public School, will be competing in the 200m i.m., 400m i.m., 100m backstroke and the 200m backstroke.

At a recent meet held at the University of Guelph, Cody swam personal bests of 1:09 in the 100m backstroke and 2:27 in the 200m backstroke.

Cody’s success in the pool is credited to his training

commitment and dedication to a rigorous routine. Cody swims six afternoon practices every week at the University of Windsor, as well as three practices at 6:30 a.m. at the Leamington Kinsmen Complex.

Of course at age 13, Cody’s parents, Bob and Kathleen Lavoie of Wheatley, are an integral part of the training routine as they drive their son to the early morning and afternoon practices, as well as various meets. Cody has been swimming for five years, since he was only eight years old. Congratulations and good luck Cody!

Leamington Women’s

League

Coaching staff: Thomas Grubb, Stephan Taylor, Darryl Glasier, Terry Symons and Grant Symons. Back row: DJ Wales, Bailey Loveless, Daniel Warkentin, Matthew Warkentin, Dylan Enns. Middle row: Matt Taylor, Calyn Kir, Daniel White, Michael Travis. Front row: Noah Santos, Quinn

Quinten Adams, Riley Enns, Devon Scratch. Goalies: Mitchell Monaco and Tyler Wall.

Atom A’s take two-game lead

The UFCW Southpoint Atom A squad hosted the first two games of their second-round series with St. Thomas this past weekend.

In their first game in two weeks, after capturing the International Silver Stick title, the team came out struggling to get a handle on the puck. After going down 1-0, they battled back to tie it up in the second period. The start of the third brought a misfortunate bounce that ended up in the back of the Southpoint net.

The team found a way to even it up by the end of the period. In overtime, Luc Ribble stuck one in to give Southpoint the first win of the series. Final 3-2. Luc Ribble had the hattrick with assists from Rory DiNiro, Brayden Klemens (2), Brett Enns (2) and Spencer Wiebe.

In game two on Sunday, Southpoint came out stronger, controlling the play and keeping the puck in the St. Thomas end for much of the game. They won the game 3-1 with goals from Luc Ribble, Gioia Diciocco and Rory DiNiro and assists from Brayden Klemens, Rory DiNiro, Brett Enns and Spencer Wiebe.

Southpoint takes a 4-0 lead in this six-point series and goes into St. Thomas on Sat., Feb. 6 looking to finish it off.

Polar Bear Dip fun

even -8 Celcius temperature could keep the participants of the 10th Annual Polar Dip from taking the

More than $3,400 was raised by the dippers and a further $30,000 was raised through sponsors and the dinner and dance held on Saturday, January 30 after the dip. Organizer Kim Cavers was very happy to match last year’s total of $60,000. In the 10 years that the Polar Bear Dip has been in Kingsville, a total of $400,000 has been raised for ChildCan and Youth & Family Resource Network (Essex County).

(Sun Photo)

Family Literacy Day at Library

The Sports Guru is here!

“Sports are life and life is sports”. Yes, the guru is deep.

We’re born, we learn to walk, we learn to talk, we learn to read and we learn to succeed. We also stumble, learn to fail, feel the pain and feel the shame, but then we learn to succeed again – that’s life! That’s also sports where we’re put into a game, onto a team, into a position, expected to perform, yet completely oblivious to what’s expected in the performance.

The Sports The Sports Corner Corner

In time we learn to pass, we learn to hit, we learn to skate, we learn to throw. We learn what we need through trial and error, from our coaches and our peers, oh yes, and from our parents.

We succeed – we win; we fail –we lose.

The difference, though, between sports and life – and the great thing about sports –is that sports are simply snapshots of life. They are moments in time that we can learn from and grow with.

Is there a Canadian parent alive who doesn’t at least feel the pressure, if not the overwhelming desire, to have a son or daughter in Canada’s game – hockey? I would bet not. We dream of seeing them soar across the rink delivering the perfect pass and scoring the winning goal, then being mauled by their mates as they revel in the victory. It’s just like we dreamed of their first steps across the room, down the hall, in front of our friends and into our waiting arms; poetry in motion.

Unfortunately the poetry on the rink can often be like the poetry of childhood. There can be more failures than successes in the beginning.

Yet we didn’t yell at them when they fell learning to walk, so why do we yell when they fail to skate or make the perfect pass? We’ve all seen the parent or the coach at the minor league level who’s red in the face and hoarse in the throat from yelling at an 8 year old. “Billy, skate!”, “No Billy, not that way!”, “Come on Billy, get in the game!”

What we need to remember when we see failure in sports is that sports, just like life, are best enjoyed with positive encouragement and gentle correction. After all, sports are just moments in time in the journey of life.

In the weeks to come we’ll explore the sporting life together, and find out what superstars like Tiger and Peyton have to teach us.

Bantam AEs split a pair

The Southpoint Capitals Bantam AE team split a pair of playdown games this weekend with Belle River and now lead the 6 point series, 4 points to 2.

On Saturday night in Wheatley, Southpoint opened the scoring 6 minutes into the game on a goal by Nick DiNiro from Austin Thompson and Evan Nash. Southpoint increased its lead two minutes into the second on a goal by Thompson from Joel Klemens and held that lead until the 10-minute mark of the third when Belle River hit the scoresheet. Two minutes later, Southpoint’s Thompson restored the 2-goal advantage with an unassisted marker. With just under 5 minutes remaining in the game Southpoint’s lead was reduced to 1 and Belle River was determined not to go out without a fight. Belle River kept up the offensive pressure and tied the score with 1:30 remaining, sending the game into overtime. With less than 6 minutes remaining in overtime, defenseman Brandon Stahl rushed the puck from the Southpoint end and fired home the winning goal for a 4 - 3 victory, sending the series back to Belle River with a chance to wrap it up on Sunday afternoon.

In the Sunday game, Southpoint’s first shot on goal by Kyle Dama, just 14 second in, opened the scoring. The first period ended with Southpoint in the lead, but it was the second period that the Capitals would rather forget. Belle River took control of the game and by the time the period had ended they had opened a 3 - 1 lead over Southpoint. In the third period, both teams had plenty of action around the goal with the Capitals’ goalie, Tyler Jackson, making some outstanding saves. With less than 2 minutes remaining Southpoint’s Thompson, from Nash, would score to reduce the deficit to 1 and create another exciting finish. In the final 2 minutes and with the goaltender pulled for the extra attacker, Southpoint was unable to score the equalizer, resulting in a 3 - 2 loss to Belle River.

The series now shifts back to Southpoint for game 4 on Tuesday night, 7 p.m at Unico Arena. For the game results and. future games visit the teams website on the Southpoint Minor Hockey website at http://www.southpointminorhockey.com/ team.aspx?did=498&tid=986.

First meeting held for Essex County 4-H Art Club

By Savannah Hayes

The first 4-H Art Club meeting in 2010 was held on January 29 at the home of club leaders Kimberly and Marshall Heaton. As soon as everyone had arrived the meeting began. Kimberly introduced herself, as did we. Once we all knew who everyone was, we began elections.

Emma Anger is this year’s president; Quinn McCarthy is the vice president; Katie McMullan is the secretary; Halie Osborne is our treasurer; Angela Robertson is our photographer with Jake Morency as assistant photographer; and yours truly, Savannah Hayes, is press reporter.

After some delicious homemade pizza, made by

Kimberly and cooked by club co-leader Shannon Willemsma, we quickly discussed a few things.

The 4-H Art Club will be collecting postcards for this year’s project. We are sending letters to, and hopefully receiving postcards from, every 4-H group in the world!

This year we will be making postcards, rubber stamps, postage stamps and taking many photographs! Right now, we must find a post office and collect cancellation stamps for our first project. If you would like to send a postcard to the Art Club, please mail it to the 4-H Art Club, 19 Baird Avenue, Leamington, Ontario, N8H 3K5.

Later in the evening, we enjoyed a huge box of wafer cookies courtesy of Mrs. Pear, which were finished

in no time. The Art Club sends thanks to Mrs. Pear for the delicious treat! We also created a club e-mail account (essex4-hartclub@hotmail.com).

The Art Club would also like to thank Farm Credit Canada for their generous support of our club this year via a $500 FCC 4-H 4-Ever grant. This money will be used to connect with 4-H members around the world and for special club activities at the Harrow Fair.

Our next meeting will take place on Friday, February 19 from 6 - 9 p.m. (location TBA). We will be comparing our collection of cancellation stamps, creating our own design, judging the best design, and be writing our letters and e-mails to all other 4-H groups everywhere!

Leamington Library Branch Assistant Lara Klymko led a special Family Literacy Night Program on Thursday, January 28. The evening included singing songs and reading books around the make-shift camp fire and tent. (Sun Photo)

As part of Family Literacy Night at the Leamington Branch Library, members from the New Canadian Centre of Excellence attended to read books in various languages. Pictured here, Library Branch Assistant Lara Klymko holds the book Little Red Riding Hood so Fernando Chicas can read in Spanish and act out the book. Other books were read in German and Arabic. (Sun Photo)

Hike Metal building Great Lakes fishing vessels

By Sheila McBrayne

What measures 20 metres long, weighs 40 tonnes and floats?

One of two new Great Lakes vessels commissioned by the Government of Ontario for the Ministry of Natural Resources fisheries assessment and ecosystem monitoring on Lake Huron and Lake Ontario. Wheatley’s own Hike Metal Products won the $4.35 million contract and began work on the steel vessels in March of 2009. Hike Metal Products beat out competing tender bids from Quebec and Nova Scotia.

“It’s tremendously beneficial to work with the experience that Hike has. The advantage of dealing with Hike is they’ve built a lot of the commercial fishing boats and know the work,” said Tony Thompson, a naval architect with EYE Marine Consultants (Dartmouth, NS) who designed the vessels.

“We’re very happy to be working with Hike Metal, they are a well known and respected name. I’m proud to be doing the work right here in Chatham-Kent,” said John Cooper, Ministry of Natural Resources, Great Lakes Branch.

Cooper explained that the two new vessels will be the first of their kind to be designed and built specifically for MNR capabilities.

“These vessels will be replacing existing vessels that are 50-60 years old and were not designed for the work we need to do today,” said Cooper. The MNR currently use former commercial fishing boats that are retrofitted for their assessment and monitoring needs.

The two vessels under construction at Hike are expected to generate approximately 15,000 employment hours as well as local trade contracts. Andy Stanton, Hike President, admits his business was lucky to have had many projects already booked before the downturn in the economy, so his staff of 35 have been kept busy while many factories have been scaling back. “This

was an average contract for us, but it’s nice to be able to work on something new,” he said.

The first of the two vessels is expected to be water-ready by early summer and will undergo a gamut of documented water trials.

The vessel is expected to be delivered by the end of 2010 and could be in service in 2011. The vessels have a life expectancy of 30-40 years in fresh water and 20-25 years in sea water.

“The new vessels provide better safety and working conditions for our crews, including a washroom and kitchen (galley), up-to-date navigation equipment and digital/wireless technology for operating fishing gear.

The vessels enhance our capability to study the whole lake,” said Cooper.

The new vessels can conduct gill netting, trawling and nighttime hydro acoustic work. They will be used to conduct fisheries assessment work on species such as salmon, lake trout, walleye and whitefish for ecosystem monitoring and commercial and sport fish

fisheries management.

“The situation in the Great Lakes is constantly changing and we need to monitor the different problems... invasive species, environmental factors... we need to track these year-to-year,” said Cooper.

He also pointed out that 40 percent of the Great Lakes are within Ontario. Commercial fishing is a $200M industry and sport fishing is a $450M industry.

The two new vessels will be harboured at Owen Sound (Lake Huron) and Glennora (Lake Ontario).

A dog’s life it is

Why do dogs act the way they do? Or is it just my dog?

Why does he do that entire-body wagging thing when all I am doing is coming out and filling up his water bowl? His whole being shakes from head to toe, and all the while I am saying “Tucker, stop. Stop. STOP IT.” I know he’s happy to see me, but I can spend 7 hours straight with him, and when I walk around the corner and come back, there he goes again. His tongue hanging out like red ticker tape and his rear end do-

ing this stomping, clumsy sideways seesaw motion while his front is trying desperately to catch up. It’s like watching two 4 year olds dancing at a wedding. Except perhaps a little less cute. And with more drool.

Keri Keri with a “K” with a “K”

So that’s what I deal with every day. It’s much worse when certain people come over. You know the ones. Either the non-dog-owner friends, or those who own little dogs that are easily slowed down by adding weight via a barrette on their forehead. These are not the owners of a purely over the top, stocky lab. This couple just doesn’t get it when you say “Just ignore him for 5 minutes” or “Uhhh, I think that high pitched squeal of yours is what is setting him off.”

But they don’t listen. No, they toss their head at you, turn around and snap open his cage like they are setting a wild horse free. And out he waddle-stomps, getting more and more worked up while our two guests babble so much baby talk I can’t stay in the room any longer. As I disappear into the safe and dog-free haven of the kitchen, I wait for it. It will come eventually.

Amidst the “Ooooh who’s a good boy?” and “Where’s your ball? Where’s your ball?” I hear it. “No. No. Nooooo. Tuuuucker, noooo. NO!” I wait perhaps a few minutes longer than I should and then breeze back in the room. And there they are, semi sprawled on the wood floor, covered in dog fur with a perplexed look on their face, almost as if they couldn’t believe I didn’t forewarn them. But I did tell them. He’s a handful. Especially when you squeak excitedly at him. Now all of a sudden the novelty has worn off, their interest in his soggy tennis ball clearly not matching his desire to show it. And it’s definitely not mixing well with their Cosmopolitans. But of course, HE is having a blast.

So we corral him, our guests eventually leave and it’s peaceful once more. And there he sits. Waiting. And here it comes. We open his kennel and he lumbers out, smiling ear to ear. He takes two steps and rolls on his back for his belly rub, all the while demonstrating a leg kick that could surely start a Harley.

As the dishwasher whirrs away in the background, we realize that despite all his bull-in-a-china-shop behaviour and all the mischief he brings, he’s still a great dog that brings us many laughs. And with a snuffly grunt, he gets up and decides to wreak some havoc outside. As we stand there at the patio door, he stops and looks at us for a very brief moment. And we all understand.

We weren’t all that keen on that couple either.

Owl Prowl at Point Pelee

Centre for the annual prowl through the park to find these elusive creatures of the night. A short theatre presentation will be followed with an owl survey, just like the park ecologists do.

Call 519-322-2365 for more information or to register.

Who Gives A Hoot!

February is a great time to listen for owls at a woodlot near you! Come out and shake off that cabin fever as the Friends of Cedar Creek invite you to an Owl Prowl at Camp Cedarwin, taking place on Thursday, February 25, at 7 p.m.

Participants will first learn about the owls of southwestern Ontario, presented by Caroline Biribauer, Friends of Watersheds Organizer with the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA). This will be followed by an exploration of the owl’s longstanding mystique in popular culture – ‘Representations, Lore and More’ – presented by Kris Ives, Assistant Curator with the Essex Region Conservation Authority. You’ll also have a close encounter with live owls handled by Nancy Phillips, President and Animal Overseer, of Wings Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. Weather permitting, attendees will walk through the woods of Camp Cedarwin, looking and listening for owls. Located in one of the few remaining Carolinian forests in Essex County, Camp Cedarwin includes 74 acres of beautiful woodlands. The Camp is located at 1495 County Road 23 (Arner Townline), on the west side, just south of County Road 20, in Essex.

The cost of this event is $5 per person. Space is limited and those interested are asked to register by calling 519-776-5209, ext. 245, or by emailing cbiribauer@erca.org . Refreshments will be available for all participants. Remember to dress according to the weather conditions! Boots are also recommended.

The mission of the Friends of Cedar Creek is to preserve and restore the natural and aquatic habitats in the Cedar Creek watershed through community involvement, thus encouraging recreational use and environmental education. The Friends of Cedar Creek meet on the second Tuesday of each month. The next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, March 9, at 7 p.m., at Camp Cedarwin. New members are welcome to attend! For more information or to add an item to the agenda, please contact Caroline, Friends of Watersheds Organizer, at 519-776-5209, ext. 245, or cbiribauer@erca.org. For other meeting and event listings, please go to www.erca.org.

The Owl Prowl at Point Pelee National Park is this Saturday, February 6 at 6:30 p.m. Participants will meet at the Visitor

Andy Stanton President Hike Metal Products

Welding onboard the vessel

And

here, from left to right, are the award recipients: Councillor David Brister, City of Windsor, Nancy Panchesan, Volunteer Award, Gates Rubber Company Gus Martin and colleague, Richard Thibert, Joan Cope and Randy Eaton, Lions of Kingsville, Dan Bissonnette and Daniel Ure, Naturalized Habitat Network, Mayor Rick Masse, Pelee Island, Dan Krutsch, Colleen Gosnell, General Manager of Windsor Crossing and colleague.

(Photo Submitted)

ERCA recognizes 2009 conservation award winners

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) named the winners of the 2009 Conservation Awards at its Annual General Meeting on January 21. The

awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made tangible contributions to the environment in the categories of educa-

Canadian CrissCross

___

For every 5. Jeff Bridges film 6. Opening words of the Lordís Prayer 7. Lists of dishes

8. Main singer in a synagogue

9. Competition in getting ahead of others 11. Television antenna 12. Spar 14. Make sure 17. Message from God 19. Work out an agreement

20. Single-celled organisms

23. Was in charge of

25. “The Raven” author 28. Stops sleeping 29. Bellybuttons

32. Desires urgently 33. Hostilities 34. Old

35. Eagle’s claw

37. Singer James

Devoured 45. Uncomfortable in company 46. Ocean (Answers elsewhere in the paper)

tion, volunteerism and environmental achievement.

“It’s a pleasure to honour those who have given so much of their time and talent to make our region so attractive,” stated ERCA Chair Anthony Leardi.

The Conservation Farm Award was presented to the Thibert Farm of Comber. The Thiberts believe that cooperating with Mother Nature is the key to maintaining a sustainable farm business.

Since 2004, they have planted over 4700 trees on 75 acres of their property, removing over 10% of land from agricultural production and restoring it to a natural state.

The John R. Park Homestead Award was presented to the Lions Club of Kingsville. The Lions were the lead applicant in the project to restore the Homestead’s two largest barns, which now have new cedar roofs and improved facilities for visitors and volunteers. The Lions also worked on the Kingsville Train Station and

arboretum project so the many users of the Kingsville section of the Chrysler Canada Greenway can learn about the many different native tree and plant species planted in the arboretum.

The Conservation Award for Education was awarded to Mr. Ron Tiessen, who has spent more than 20 years helping to educate people about the human and natural heritage of Pelee Island. In 1987, he began the Pelee Island Heritage Centre, which has evolved into a key destination for the many tourists to Pelee.

Ron was key to assisting the Nature Conservancy of Canada with the successful acquisition and protection of Florian Diamante Nature Reserve property. He initiated and managed trail improvements at Fish Point and Lighthouse Point and the restoration of the Pelee Island Lighthouse, and helped to create and install educational signage surrounding each of these key features.

The Conservation Award

for Environmental Achievement was presented to Mr. Dan Krutsch. A professional engineer with extensive experience in civil engineering design and analysis, Dan has donated over $30,000 worth of engineering services towards the Detroit River Lake Sturgeon Spawning Habitat Restoration Project constructed near Fighting Island. He continues to provide in-kind expertise to other projects.

Windsor Crossing was also recognized for Environmental Achievement. Their focus on Green initiatives includes a comprehensive waste recycling program, the implementation of Energy Action Days, and the installation of water-saving and health-promoting notouch automatic devices in their washroom facilities. They also met and exceeded standards in the use of organic fertilizers and promoted the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products.

The City of Windsor was also recognized in the

category of Environmental Achievement. In 2006, the city launched its Environmental Master Plan, with a strategic direction committed to ‘being a leader through its daily actions and services to enhance the environment for present and future generations’. They have continued to live up to these words in a number of ways, including the protection of existing natural areas and the addition of thousands of trees to the city’s landscape. They have upgraded the Lou Romano Sewage Treatment Plant to significantly reduce the quantity to contaminants entering the Detroit River, and initiated the Central Riverfront Retention Treatment Basin project.

The city also has a long history of riverfront park improvements that have multiple elements such as such as fish habitat, recreation, flood and erosion mitigation and public safety.

For a comprehensive listing of award winners, go to www.erca.org.

Pictured

Local author Lisa Gabriele special guest at Last

Letter to the Editor

Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff says childcare will be a priority for him to create jobs, reduce poverty and provide early learning. Sadly he did not get the early learning certificate from the last lesson the Liberals were given when their government fell on this same issue. Childcare is not an obstacle to earning but a vital role. It happens not just in union-operated daycares but wherever there is a child. To fund only kids in daycare and bill all those outside it increases poverty. Kids learn wherever they are, not just in daycare and not better in daycare. He should take this tilted drawing back to the drawing board.

It makes kids dizzy and you know how easily kids spit up.

Beverley Smith

Police

vs. Legendary Hockey Heroes charity game

The 9th Annual Leamington Police Services Oldtimer’s Hockey Challenge Charity Hockey Game is slated for Saturday, February 13 at 6 p.m. This annual charity hockey game between the Leamington Police Services and the Legendary Hockey Heroes first started in Leamington in 2002. The benefactor of this game is the W.E. Care for Kids Foundation. This is an outstanding local charity that raises money to purchase equipment and services to support pediatric care at our area hospitals.

Since 1997 W.E. Care for Kids has raised more than $3.2 million to improve pediatric health care at Windsor Regional, Hotel Dieu Grace and Leamington District Memorial Hospitals, with more than $330,000 being donated to your hospital right here in Leamington.

This event has grown over the last 8 years and has become one of the major fund raising events for the foundation.

J imaging Design of Leamington is going to be at this event and will be producing a video of the night which will be made available to be seen on TVCogeco Cable 11 March 2 at 8 p.m., as well as DVDs made available to be purchased. Money is being raised through the support and participation of local companies with sponsorship money in return for commercial time during the program. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the W.E. Care for Kids Foundation.

Crossword answers

Lisa Gabriele, who read from her book The Almost Archer Sisters, was the special guest at the first Last Friday Coffee House of 2010. The event was held at the newly renovated Leamington Arts Centre hosted by Dale Butler and Friends. (Sun Photo)