Southpoint Sun January 12, 2011

Why did we get $1.5M?

Special Feature to the Sun

By Bill Chaplin

Just before Christmas both our Mayor John Paterson and our MPP Pat Hoy announced that Leamington was getting $1,550,900 from the Province. Notwithstanding the adage not to look a gift horse in the mouth, I really wondered why. Apparently it was from something called OMPF funding. I wondered what that was, too. Let me tell you what it’s all about.

OMPF stands for the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund. The Province describes it as,”The OMPF, which replaced the Community Reinvestment Fund (CRF) in 2005, is the province’s main transfer payment to municipalities. The OMPF assists municipalities with their social program costs, includes equalization measures, addresses challenges faced by northern and rural communities, and responds to policing costs in rural communities.” Just as the Federal Government makes transfer payments to provinces to help them afford federally mandated programs, the Ontario government makes transfer payments to municipalities to help the ratepayers afford the cost of provincially-imposed standards for certain services.

The first component of the payment is for ‘Assessment Equalization’. Based on our Financial Information Return, Leamington’s households have an average assessed value of $204,679 (and there are 10,815 households). The province provides a $42 subsidy for every $10,000 our assessment is

$600,000 fire at Highline Mushroom farm

Leamington firefighters responded to an early morning blaze at the Highline Mushroom farm on Mersea Road 5 near the intersection of Highway 77. Twenty-five firefighters arrived at 6 a.m. to the blaze that kept them there for more than five hours. The OPP and fire department had Mersea Road 5 blocked off. The fire was believed to have originated in a second floor lunch room and spread to the mushroom growing area. Approximately 1/3 of the building was lost. Cause of the fire is undetermined.

below $225,000 per household. Since we are $20,321 (below the threshold level) x 10,815 = $219,771,615 / $10,000 x $42 = $923,040. So the province gives us $923,100.

The second part of the total comes from the reduced tax paid on farms and managed forest properties. The province has a sliding scale of subsidy based on how great a portion of local taxes come from these two categories of property. In Leamington’s case, it is enough to qualify for a grant of $149,500. If farm taxes comprised 5% or less of our tax base, we’d get nothing; if the taxes from farms were 20% or more we would get a grant equal to 300% of those taxes. Obviously, we’re somewhere in the middle

of those two extremes. That brings us up to $1,072,600.

The next part of the Provincial Grant depends on how ‘rural’ we are. Weird, huh? Using the 2006 census, the Province calculates what proportion of the population lives in an urban environment and what proportion is rural. Think you know what you are? You may be wrong, because the distinction appears to be based upon a population density of above or below 400 per square kilometres producing a total population of 1000, or association with a population centre that has a population of 10,000 or more. Since no normal human can calculate the answer, we just accept the Province’s claim that we are 30.5% rural. (Kingsville is apparently 47.0%

rural, while Lakeshore is 40.1% rural.) At this level we qualify for a grant of about $17.21 per household. $17.21 x 10,815 households = $186,126. The province slipped us $186,200. So far we’re up to $1,258,800.

The final component of the OMPF grant is for policing costs. Below a cost of $150 per household, every municipality is on its own.

Between $150 and $750, one level of subsidy is paid based on the rural character of the municipality, and above $750 a significantly higher level is paid. Since our policing costs worked out to around $639 in 2010, and we are “30.5% rural, we qualified for a subsidy of about $27.00 per household, or $292,100.

And that’s the $1,550,900

OMPF grant. That’s a provincial grant of $143.40 per household, which is a pretty nice Christmas present no matter how you look at it. How do we compare to our neighbours? Kingsville qualified for $955,600 –about $115.41 per household; Lakeshore got $906,200 – about $69.70 per household. (Both have an average assessment well above the provincial threshold of $225,000.) The one anomaly is the Town of Essex, which the Province thinks is 100% rural. As a consequence of that status, and their low average assessed value of only $180,800 they received $5,213,280, or about $594.11 per household.

(SUN Photo)

Listen Saturdays at 6 pm and Sundays at 1 pm to the Mix 96.7 Hit List. Email hitlist@mix967.ca to vote for the song you think should be #1!

This WeekLast Week ArtistSong Title 11Pink Raise Your Glass 22One RepublicSecrets

34Taio CruzDynamite

43Bruno MarsJust The Way You Are 56UsherDJ Got Us Falling In Love

65Neon TreesAnimal

78Plain White T’sRhythm of Love 812Katy PerryFirework 910Train Marry Me

107Katy PerryTeenage Dream

1113RihannaOnly Girl In The World 129Taylor SwiftMine

1315Maroon 5Give A Little More 1416Sick PuppiesMaybe 1514Enrique IglesiasI Like It 1620Nelly Just A Dream

1719ScriptFor The First Time 1811 Maroon 5 Misery

1917LifehouseAll In 2018DaughtrySeptember

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SONGS THAT HIT #1

Fatboy Slim- 'Praise You' 11 years ago

Steve Miller- 'Joker' 36 years ago

MUSICAL BIRTHDAYS

Rod Stewart ("Maggie Mae", "Do You Think I'm Sexy") is 66

Donald Fagen, lead singer Steely Dan, is 63

Pat Benatar ("Hit Me With Your Best Shot") is 58

Shawn Colvin ("Sunny Came Home") is 55

Naomi Judd, of country's The Judds, is 65

Graham "Suggs" McPherson, lead singer for Madness ("Our House") is 50

Melanie "Sporty Spice" Chisholm of The Spice Girls is 37

Geoff Tate, Queensryche vocalist, is 52

Dave Grohl, lead singer of Foo Fighters/Nirvana drummer is 42

Lisa Lisa, pop rock vocalist (Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam) is 44

Ronnie Milsap, country singer, is 67

Jim Stafford, singer ("Spiders and Snakes") is 67

MUSICAL EVENTS

8yrs ago - Rock musician Pete Townshend of The Who was arrested in London on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children. He was later cleared.

27yrs ago - Madonna 1st sings "Holiday" on American Bandstand

27yrs ago - Michael Jackson was the big winner at the American Music Award

31yrs ago - Paul McCartney jailed in Tokyo for 10 days on marijuana possession

Leamington Council Briefs - January 10

Deputy-Mayor

Wright to Chair Drainage Act Court of Revision

The first item of business on the Monday agenda was to sit as the Court of Revision, and to do that, the five members had to elect a chair. Members Atkin, Chopchik, MacDonald and

HappyBirthday8th

ALYSSA HARRISON

Love, Mom, Dad and Zack

Verbeke elected DeputyMayor Charlie Wright to that position.

Having dealt with that, the Court of Revision then approved the assessment for the new access culvert over the Stevenson Drain, assessing all construction costs

Committee Appointments

to the owner being served in accordance with an engineers report from back in November.

Development at Seacliff and Erie Back in 2006, at the end

of October, a site plan was approved for development on the vacant lot at the corner of Seacliff Drive and Erie St. S., but reconstruction of Seacliff caused the owner to delay construction until the work on the corner (Continued on Page 3)

Leamington Council Committee Appointments

Town council announced its lay appointments to boards and committees Monday night. Here is  the list of civic‐minded citizens who were selected from the many applications received. Appointments  are for the term of council.

1 Police Services Board Joan McSweeney

2 Leamington Accessibility Advisory Committee Robert Bahry, Elsa J. Koop, Anne Marie  Fantin, Ted Wigfield

3 Southeast Leamington Stakeholder Committee

EAST MERSEA RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION  Tom Dick, Gerald Dimmick, Ray  Marentette, Tom Platsko

RESIDENTS AT LARGE

Mary Ann Dotulak, Ted Wigfield

EMRA ALTERNATES: Mike Walsh, John  Landschoot

4 ErieQuest Diving Tourism & Marine Heritage  Committee Anne Marie Fantin, Don Gage, John  Karry, Arthur Krueger, Don Nicholson,  Dan Reive, Trevor Therrault, Taki G.  Vourakes, Ted Wigfield

5 Leamington Communication Committee

Media Representative: Jugo Koski

Public Representatives: Dan Santos, Keith  Klassen

High School Student: (still vacant)

University or College Student:  (still  vacant)

6 Leamington Committee of Adjustment David Epp, Heather Jablonski, Keith  Klassen

In addition to these appointments, members of the Compliance Audit Committee appointed in  September to satisfy the requirement of the Municipal Elections Act, Robert Michael Graham, Peter  Neufeld and Pat Simpson, were re‐appointed to continue in their positions. Appointments to the  Economic Development Advisory Committee were deferred.

32yrs ago - YMCA files libel suit against Village People's YMCA song

32yrs ago - Barry Manilow and Linda Ronstadt were big winners at the American Music Awards

33yrs ago - Stevie Wonder, Fleetwood Mac and Conway Twitty were big winners at the American Music Awards

33yrs ago - The Sex Pistols' gave their final concert in Winterland, SF

35yrs ago - Peter Frampton released his platinum live album "Frampton Comes Alive"

42yrs ago - The Beatles released the "Yellow Submarine" album

44yrs ago - The Rolling Stones appearred on Ed Sullivan Show

45yrs ago - David Bowie released his 1st record (Can't Help Thinking About Me)

46yrs ago - Rock group The Who released it's 1st album "I Can't Explain" Listen to the new MAX 92.7 FM - We Play It All!!!

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Leamington Council Briefs - January 10

(Continued from Page 2) was over. That time is now, and Eddy Daraiche is ready to go. Before council approved the site plan, however, Councillor Rick Atkin asked a number of detailed questions to assure himself sufficient care had been taken to mitigate the impact of this development on the two abutting residential properties.

Municipal Fuel Tender Results

On Monday night administration reported to Municipal Council on the prices fuel suppliers were willing to sell at. The basis of the price is fairly simple: whatever the fuel cost the supplier, plus a mark-up, plus costs for delivering it to the municipality. The tender was awarded to Sterling Marine Fuels of Windsor for a cost of $0.019 per litre above rack price. The tender was for a bit over 350,000 litres of gas, ethanol enhanced gas, clear and coloured diesel, so it is expected the tender will cost just under $4000 per year for the three years of the contract. This is less fuel than we used to purchase because the OPP purchase their own fuel.

Phase Three of Seacliff Park Tendered

It is a significantly modified phase three tender than originally planned, but the final stage of the reconstruction of Seacliff Park was awarded by municipal council Monday night. Piroli construction will be paid $54,823.68 for this final phase of the work to be done under the Federal Stimulus Funding program, primarily renovations to the Service Building. A new roof will be put on the picnic shelter and repairs will be made to the beach washrooms, but this work is insurance-related to damage from the tornado. Originally, asphalting Forest Ave. and construction of sidewalks along that street were to be part of phase three, but these final touches will have to be done at the municipality’s cost.

Arts Donors to be Offered Options

Back in 2009 the municipality was requested to administer the donations to construct a new Arts Centre beside the town Art Gallery so that it could issue charitable tax donation receipts. That was done, and $21,300 was deposited in a trust account and receipts issued. Now that the former Bank of Montreal building has been donated for theatrical productions, plans to build the proposed centre have been abandoned, which raises the issue of what to do with the money. This problem was brought to a head by a letter from the Rotary Club of Leamington who sent the town a letter asking for the return of their $10,000 donation (toward a five-year $25,000 commitment) pending a review of their commitment based on a new presentation to them by the Sun Parlour Players.

In his report to council, Leamington CAO Bill Marck presented council with the options available to them. “In most cases a registered charity (Leamington) cannot return a donor’s gift. Once the donation is made, the charity is obliged to use the gift in carrying out its charitable purpose. On occasion, a charity may be obliged by law to return gifts to the donor if the charity asks for the public to contribute to a special project and later events make it “impossible to carry out” the project. It would appear that the pivotal factor in returning donations is what constitutes “impossible to carry out” and specifically whether those that donated, had donated specifically for a new building attached to the arts centre or for a development of performing arts centre facility in general, which may be provided in a different manner and/ or location. The latter would mean that the project was not “impossible to carry out”, but rather that it was being carried out in an alternate matter; the determination of which is

put forward for council consideration.”

Councillor Rick Atkin moved that donors be contacted and offered their money back, stating that in his opinion that was the right thing to do.

Municipal Municipal Correspondent Correspondent

Seconding the motion, Councillor MacDonald said that she was supporting the motion in the interests of ‘transparency’. All of council agreed, so donors will be offered the option of a return of their donation or agreeing to have their donation used toward the cost of the major renovations that will be necessary to transform the bank building into a playhouse. If a donor wishes the donation returned (with whatever nominal interest it has generated while on deposit in the municipal trust account) the town will also have to notify the federal government so that the tax deduction that may have been used by the donor can be invalidated.

Miscellany

There are always little items that don’t conveniently fit into a tidy organization. Monday night there were a few you might want to be aware of.

Councillor Hilda MacDonald has been appointed by County Council to the County Library Board. She informed council that she is thrilled with the appointment, and will have no difficulty declaring a financial interest when matters affecting library employees are raised. (Her daughter is a library employee.)

The full length of the East Side Arterial Road is now open. Director of Community Services John Tofflemire extended his thanks to the County, the Province and the Federal government for their financial help in making this long-anticipated road a reality.

Councillor Larry Verbeke asked our County Council representatives to keep their ears open for any chance that 20km of trail might be developed along County Road 20. In his opinion it is a good time for the development of the trail. He also asked that when the question of garbage from Toronto is considered, they “vote with their hearts and keep our taxes down”.

Deputy-Mayor Charlie Wright asked that construction records over the last four years be assembled to identify the number of freestanding residential units, and commercial and industrial buildings that have been added to our tax base.

Only in politics can a decrease mean an increase…

If you haven’t heard yet, you’ll be happy to know that you will be starting 2011 with a 10 per cent decrease from Hydro One.

All homes, small businesses, and farms will receive the rebates that are to be in effect for the next five years. They will be phased out when “debt-retirement fees” of around $10 a month – to pay the leftover “stranded debt” from the old Ontario Hydro – come off bills around 2016.

The average household hydro bill is $125, which will mean a decrease of $12.50 per month or $150 per year. It may seem like a lot, but it sure adds up. The decrease is expected to cost the Ontario government about $1 billion.

Workout to work off pounds

January is here and most of us have started our resolutions, hoping that this year will be the year that we actually achieve our goals.

This sounds great for Ontarians, but let’s not forget that hydro rates are expected to increase by about 46 per cent in the next five years. That’s right, that 10 per cent discount is going to add up to a 36 per cent increase by the time all is said and done. Homeowners had better enjoy that slight decrease for the first few months of this year and brace for the larger increases in the months and years to come.

Electricity rates will continue to rise as the province shifts away from coal-fired generation to renewable, green energy sources which the government claims it pays much higher prices for, and won’t start to moderate until after 2015.

Don’t look for the discount, or Ontario Clean Energy Benefit, as it is officially called, to show up on your bills until about May or June of this year. The 10 per cent Ontario Clean Energy Benefit will be applied monthly after all other items on the electricity bills, including taxes. The rebates will be retroactive to January 1, but may not show up on utility bills until later this year.

Most people I’ve talked to have committed to eating and living a healthier lifestyle, which includes more exercise and less high fat/cholesterol foods. It all sounds like a great idea, but how can we make it happen and keep happening past February or March?

I’ve committed to losing 20 pounds by July 1. I think it’s a reasonable goal, and after that I plan to keep it off so that I’m not scheming the same thing again next January. And as extra incentive, I’ve promised myself a new golf driver if I reach my goal.

Part of my problem is eating out. We don’t think twice about eating out, no matter what day of the week it is. We used to go out for special occasions, but now it’s a matter of convenience. It’s just easier to head into town for a quick dinner. Going out for dinner seems less like a treat than it used to. The problem is, if I’m paying to eat out, I don’t want to waste my money on “healthy” food. I’m going to order the “good stuff”.

And of course, if you are eating out, you feel the need for a nice glass of wine to complement your meal… This is what I have to control. I’m going to try and curtail my wine consumption to weekends. And weekends mean Friday and Saturday. This is what I have to stick to because by about March I will have expanded the definition of weekend to mean Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Then by the time summer comes, there’s no such thing as weekends…

I find if I eat at home I’m more apt to have a salad with my meal and I stop eating when I’m full (leftovers for work the next day). I find when I’m in a restaurant I feel like I should finish my plate instead of asking for a doggy bag because sometimes it’s just a few more bites.

Another downfall of mine is exercise. I love playing hockey or team sports, but when it comes to getting on the treadmill or elliptical, it just becomes work and not fun. We have a television set up and I have my ipod, but it just takes effort to get me to do it. I know I have to and I will, but there’s a reason why they call it a WORKout.

What was your reaction to the World Junior’s Gold Medal hockey game?

Hilda Franklin

“I watched the game for a bit then got ticked off and went to bed!”

Fred Epplett

“I’ve lost over 100 games in my life. That’s the way it is. The experts picked them to finish third and they finished second. Win some, lose some. Get over it!”

Matt Ogden (left) Flint, Mich. Jeff Lobman Long Island, N.Y.

“Came out strong in the 1st and 2nd but overconfident in the 3rd and Russia took control. Canadians shouldn’t chirp the Americans so quickly!”

Jamie McDermott

“We beat the U.S., that’s all that matters.”

A perfect time to ‘cut and run’

“It is not the ship so much as the skillful sailing that assures the prosperous voyage.”

I am not sure at this moment whether this quote comforts me or not. My husband and I have been invited to sail with his sister and our brother-in-law. We will embark on our voyage in the British Virgin Islands later this month. I have total faith in our captains; it’s Mark and I, the crew, that are a little shoddy.

Leamington Half Century Centre appreciates support

The Leamington & District Half Century Centre is pleased to announce the winners of their December Christmas Raffle and Meat Draw held on Dec. 17. The first prizewinner of a 32” LCD HD TV was Barbara Booker of Leamington. Winner of the second prize, a $100 Zehrs Gift Certificate, was Harry Klassen of Leamington. Rose Foldesi, also of Leamington, won third prize – a Christmas Food Basket. The winner of the quarterly Meat Draw was Bill Booker of Amherstburg.

We would like to thank everyone who supported our draws. Your support goes a long way to help continue with the programs and services offered at the Centre.

During the month of December, the Centre also held other fundraising events: Annual Christmas Dinner, Christmas Cookie Sale and “An Afternoon of Christmas Music”. Again, we at the Centre are truly grateful for the support from the communities at large and from our members for coming out to these events.

In closing, it is important to recognize those who gave of their time and effort in selling tickets for the draws, baking cookies and the preparations of our Christmas Dinner. Without the help of our volunteers we could not have accomplished the level of success we did at these events. Thank you!

Wishing all a Happy and Healthy New Year. The Board, Leamington & District Half Century Centre

The first couple of days we will spend acclimatizing to our surroundings. Difficult no doubt, but it has to be done. Sandy beaches, balmy weather and possibly a couple of cool beverages in between provisioning our boat will not only fill our days but be a welcome change as well.

Lifestyles Lifestyles

At times like this, I hope I can think as my mother would and choose my grocery items wisely. I am always amazed with the yummy delicacies she is able to whip up with just a few simple ingredients. The key, she says, “is quality, not quantity”.

Everyday we will prepare our own breakfast and lunch on board and in the evening we will use our small zodiac boat to go ashore for dinner. My plan is to dazzle our captains with some wonderful meals in hopes of being recruited for more adventures in the future. As for Mark, he is on his own.

For the most part, I look forward to the peacefulness of the breeze pushing us forward and the lapping of the water at our side. I plan to take time to curl up with a good book or simply absorb the scenery. It has been years since I last went snorkeling, so that will be a welcome adventure! But what I am really hoping to avoid, aside from the odd shark bite or barracuda stare, is seasickness.

Rarely do I experience feeling ill while boating. Once was enough to know that it is worthwhile to avoid ever feeling that way on a boat again, especially while in the ‘blue bayou’.

Therefore, in the impending weeks I will research my best options for maintaining my sea legs.

My 2011 motto: “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

Volunteer homes needed to test Union Water System drinking water

The Union Water Supply System and the municipalities of Leamington, Kingsville, Essex and Lakeshore are looking for volunteers to allow them into their homes to take drinking water samples at the kitchen tap. This is a requirement under the Ministry of Environment Regulations for lead sampling and testing in municipal drinking water systems.

The Union Water Supply System supplies water to Leamington, Kingsville, the north part of Essex (the old town of Essex and Colchester North) and Lakeshore (Maidstone and Rochester south of Highway 401).

Union Water Supply System is required to takes samples as follows: 30 homes or apartments in Leamington and 30 homes or apartments in Kingsville, as well as 20 homes or apartments in both Essex and Lakeshore.

To be a volunteer you will have to allow one or two samplers into your kitchen for about one hour. If you are interested, call the Union Water Supply System at 519-326-1668 for further details. Help is needed to make sure that your drinking water system complies with these regulations.

LDMH seeks input from public in developing Philosophy of Care

Leamington District Memorial Hospital (LDMH) is seeking input from the community as it develops a Philosophy of Care.

“The development of a philosophy of care is an important quality initiative the hospital has embarked on this year,” says Roberta Jarecsni, Vice President of Patient Services & CNE. “In developing this philosophy we are asking the public and our patients about what they most value in the care we provide.”

As part of the government’s commitment to the provision of quality care and excellent care for all, LDMH has committed to the development of a philosophy of care that will guide the provision of a patient service plan for the provision of quality care for all patients and improvements to the hospital’s patient relations systems. Throughout the next few weeks a series of focus groups, one-on-one patient interviews and other consultations will be conducted.

“We want to ensure the entire community has a chance to provide input into this process, so we are also launching our public survey available on the hospital’s website,” said CEO John P. Stenger.

The survey is available on the LDMH website at www.leamingtonhospital.com. It is a quick survey of eight questions. For anyone who does not have internet access but would like to provide input, please contact Lena West, Patient Representative at 519326-2373 ext. 4118.

Pub Night

January 14 • 6 pm to 8 pm

Good music, good friends, good spirts

Elmer Frederisy to

celebrate 100th birthday

Elmer William Frederisy was born January14, 1911 in Illinois and moved to the metropolis of Wheatley, Ontario, in 1930 with his family. He met and later married his long time sweetheart Mildred in 1936, and together they are celebrating their 75th anniversary in August of this year.

Celebrating their father’s birthday are his two children Elenor and Doug. He also has 6 grandchildren, 8 great-grand children and 2 greatgreat grandchildren.

Leamington Court will be hosting an open house to celebrate with Elmer and his family and friends on Friday January 14 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Come and wish Elmer a Happy Birthday at 1 Henry Ave., Leamington.

Listen to 92.7 MAX FM for more events happening in Leamington and Essex County during the Max Cares Community Calendar 6 times daily or visit www.927maxfm.com for a complete listing

SUNDAYS - Sun Parlour Curling Club Euchre games 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month at 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS - Are you looking for food and fellowship? Join us, no charge, at St. Johnʼs Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington, from 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Call 519-326-3111 for more information.

THURSDAYS: Euchre 7:00 p.m. at the Leamington United Church. All proceeds go to raise money for free suppers for those who are alone or those who will go without.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12:

Toddlertime for children ages 19 months – 2 years plus caregiver takes place each Wednesday until March 9 at 10:15 a.m. at Leamington Library. Register at the library, or call 519-326-3441.

Storytime for ages 3 to 5 and caregiver takes place each Wednesday until March 9th at 11 a.m. at Leamington Library. Register at the library, or call 519-326-3441.

Got some free time on your hands and not sure what to do? Recently retired and asking “now what”? Looking for community service hours? Theatre Windsor is looking for you. Attend a Volunteer Open House at 7:30 p.m. on the 2nd floor of the Market Square, 2109 Ottawa St., Windsor. Find out about the wide variety of positions available. Refreshments and snacks will be provided.

All you can eat pasta supper at St. Davidʼs Church, 3401 Byng Rd., Windsor from 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Dinner includes pasta, salad, homemade dessert and hot and cold beverages. $6 per person, eat in or take-out. Everyone is welcome.

Storytime for ages 3-5, caregiver and siblings welcome. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. at Kingsville Library. Space is limited, so sign up early by visiting the library, or calling 519-733-5620.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 13:

Storytime for babies up to 18 months and caregiver at Kingsville Library. Each Thursday at 9:30 a.m. Space is limited, so reserve your spot by visiting the library, or calling 519-733-5620.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15:

Embrace winter at Point Pelee National Park at 1 p.m. with a photography workshop. Explore the snow-covered trees, ice formations at the tip and the magic of the season through your camera lens and learn tips and tricks from photography expert Ted Kloske. Workshop begins indoors and then ventures outdoors to try some techniques. Participants should dress for the weather. Workshop is included in park admission and will begin at the Visitor Centre. For more information, call 519-322-2365, ext. 0.

“The Magic of Mozart” featuring Canadian pianist Jan Lisiecki. Taking place at Chrysler Theatre, Windsor, at 8:00 p.m. Tickets range from $16 to $52. For information, or to order tickets, call 519-9731238, ext. 16.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15 - Come and enjoy a free breakfast for seniors, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. followed by a presentation on behalf of the Arthritis Society. Come and learn more. Kingsville Court Retirement Residence, 240 Main St. Kingsville. Call 519-7336558. Reservations suggested but not necessary.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15 - The Purple Martin Association of Essex County will meet at Colasantiʼs, 3rd concession, Ruthven. In the Willow Room at 9:00 a.m. Please call 519-776-5777 for further details.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 16 - Chatham Kent Toy Show and Sale, at Kinsmen Auditorium, 80 Tweedsmuir Ave. W., Chatham, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. See farm toys, trucks, construction, cars, trains, ships, planes, books, dolls, collectibles and much more. Chatham Model Railroad Club display, Chatham-Kent Garden Railway Society display, Chatham Aeronautics Model Flying Club display. Chatham-Kent Block Parent Program will provide childrenʼs activities. Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for students and children 6 and under are free. Proceeds to ChathamKent 4-H Toy Club and Chatham-Kent Outreach for Hunger. For information, phone 519-352-8365.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18:

Baby Storytime for children up to 18 months old and caregiver takes place each Tuesday until March 8 at 9:15 a.m. at Leamington Library. Register at the library, or call 519-326-3441.

Free Zumba Gold dance classes offered each Tuesday until March 29, from 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. at Friendship Hall in Cencourse Apartments, 30 Tuscarora St., Windsor. This program is a low intensity exercise program designed for people who are not used to exercising or are limited physically. Bring running shoes, water bottle and loose, comfortable clothing. To register, call Laura Liebrock at 519-2559940, ext. 353.

Toddlertime for children aged 19 months – 2 years, plus caregiver at Kingsville Library. Each Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. Space is limited, so reserve your spot by visiting the library, or calling 519-733-5620.

Storytime for ages 3-5, caregiver and siblings welcome. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. at Kingsville Library. Space is limited, so sign up early by visiting the library, or calling 519-733-5620.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18 - Wills and Estate Planning - Free information session. Reid Funeral Home will present information on the importance of having an up-to-date will as well as considerations for estate planning. Question and answer period to follow. 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Sun Parlor Home Auditorium, 175 Talbot St. E. Leamington. For more info or to RSVP contact at Nancy at 519-326-0499.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 18 & THURSDAY, JANUARY 20 - Are you thinking about registering your child with special needs for Kindergarten? Free information sessions to learn more about school entry are being held on Tuesday, January 18 from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. in Windsor at Family Respite Services (3295 Quality Way) and on Thursday, January 20 from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. in Kingsville at Youth and Family Resource Network of Essex County (23 Mill St. W). The sessions include presentations by parents and professionals. For more information or to pre-register for one of the sessions contact Windsor Essex Family Network by phone 519-974-1008 or email info@windsoressexfamnet.ca.

4-H Awards & Sign-Up Night rescheduled

The upcoming Essex 4-H Awards & Sign Up night scheduled for Thursday, January 13, 2011 has been RESCHEDULED to Monday, February 7 at the Essex Legion at 6:30 p.m. The awards presentation will begin at 7:30 p.m.

The Essex County 4-H Association Annual Meeting will also be taking place that evening at 8:00 p.m., at which time there will be nominations and elections for all Executive positions – President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership Coordinator and Screening Coordinator. If you are interested in these positions or have any questions, contact 4-H Ontario.

Also, as a volunteer or leader, if you are interested in leading a club in 2011, please notify Kathryn Lambert (1877-410-6748 ext. 487) to ensure there is information available for members during the sign-up process.

Tickets now available for Talent Showcase

Ensemble and Community Living Essex County, working in partnership to support families, are pleased to announce that tickets are now available for the upcoming WindsorEssex Loves Talent Showcase to be held on February 3 at 7 p.m. at L’Essor District High School in Tecumseh.

The Windsor-Essex Loves Talent Showcase is being presented to raise funds to assist children who have a disability to be active and involved in their community

The Windsor-Essex Loves Talent Showcase will have an outstanding line up of local performers aged 8 to 21 years old who will showcase their singing, dancing and diverse musical talents.

Tickets are $10 each and available online at www.communitylivingessex.org and www.ensembleunderstands. com. For more information call 519-776-6486 ext. 225.

Tickets are also available locally at CR Music Room, 275 Talbot St. W., Leamington (519-322-4937); Ernie’s TV, 29 Main St. E., Kingsville (519-733-5262), and United Community Credit Union, 328 Main St. E., Kingsville (519-7336521).

Capture a moment: photography workshop at Point Pelee National Park

Embrace winter at Point Pelee National Park with a photography workshop on January 15 at 1 p.m. Explore the snow-covered trees, ice formations at the tip and the magic of the season through your camera lens, and learn tips and tricks from photography expert Ted Kloske.

The workshop will start indoors and then venture outside to try some techniques. Be inspired by this winter wonderland.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced photographer, you’ll learn how to shoot in this beautiful season. Participants should dress for the weather. Workshop is included in park admission and will begin at the Visitor Centre. For more information please contact Visitor Services at 519322-2365 ext. 0.

Looking for more ways to enjoy the season? Join us for these upcoming special events!

• Owl Prowl: Sat. and Sun. Feb 4-5 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Visitor Centre. In late winter, owls begin setting up their territory. Learn about the owls found at Point Pelee and then venture out to explore their sounds, the fresh air and the dark skies. Cost is included with park admission

• Sciensational Sssnakes!: Family Day, Mon. Feb. 21 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Visitor Centre. This Family Day, Point Pelee National Park is pleased to welcome Sciensational Sssnakes! Come explore the life of the slithery snake, and if you are brave you might just be able to hold one! Staff will be on hand with a variety of different snake species, some of which make Point Pelee home. Cost is included in park admission.

Team Canada buffaloed

I was there, in Buffalo, N.Y., last Wednesday night. Me, along with thousands of others, were witness to one of the most bizarre championship games ever contested. Having been in the audience for this Shakespearian tragedy make me uniquely qualified to share with you my expert opinion of what happened. Umm… I haven’t the foggiest.

I can tell you that mood in the building was something I will remember long after the recollection of what actually transpired on the ice. It was like somebody turded in the punch bowl or suffered the proverbial flatulence in church. It was like wh… wh… what? What’s going on?

Weese’s Weese’s Pieces Pieces

The first couple of periods were absolutely expected. The Canadian took the play, controlled the puck and scored, then scored and then scored again. Three zip after two. I tell my buddy sitting next to me that it would be nice if the Russians got a goal or two to make a game out of it. Little did I know that the hockey gods would be listening to me. Really? My kids don’t listen to me. My staff doesn’t listen to me. The voice activation on my friggin’ phone doesn’t even listen to me. Not only did the hockey gods listen, they decided to “super serve”.

When the Russians scored the first goal, I let out a reserved “all right!” and nodded at my buddy, “Now we’ve got a game!” Then they scored again and I didn’t say a word, and then in a flash the third goal and it was “Holy crap! What’s happening?”

After the Russian’s tied the game at three, you had this feeling in your gut that the ice was tilted and Team Canada was going backwards on a slippery slope. Our boys looked confused and nervous handling the puck, and all the while the Russians turned on the jets, grew taller, hit more, jammed the net and did all the things we fully expected our guys to do.

The crowd, a sea of red and spotted with foam fingered fanatics, red capes and painted faces, was hit in the face with a cold bucket of water. The quiet was deafening! The only noise and pandemonium came from the 20 kids and their coaches, and from the dozen or so Russian hockey fans in the far corner.

And wow! When exactly did Russian hockey players go from the stoic faces of the Soviet Red Army to the toothless, grungy and animated faces of the new Russian hockey soldier? It was like watching a team full of Alex Ovechkins, though I can’t recall ever hearing about the Washington Capitals superstar being thrown off a Delta airliner. Now we, the obsessed hockey fans, will have to put away our red and white pompoms and war paint until next year’s World Junior Tournament. That tournament will be held back in Canada, shared between stadiums in Edmonton and Calgary.

In the meantime, let the Canadian hockey summits and symposiums begin, with “real” hockey people wringing their hands and losing sleep while a contemplating a “fix” to what cooler heads would regard as something barely broken. So what! We lost a junior hockey game to a pretty good hockey team, a team that launched the comeback of the century. Or was it all about “us” and the collapse of the century? I’m so conflicted.

Hoy to chair pre-budget hearing in Windsor

Chatham-Kent-Essex MPP Pat Hoy will again chair the all-party Finance Committee prebudget public hearings being held this month, including January 25 in Windsor.

“It’s our annual tour to hear feedback from citizens and organizations on what their priorities are for the next provincial budget,” said Hoy, who has chaired the Finance & Economic Affairs Committee since the Liberals took office in 2003. “Our committee is made up of all three political parties, and will present our report to the Legislative Assembly.”

Hoy said those who wish to be considered to make an in-person presentation should contact the Clerk of the Committee by 5 p.m. on January 17, 2011.

Those who only wish to comment on the budget consultations may send a written submission to the Clerk by 5 p.m. on February 1, 2011.

The Clerk can be contacted at: Sylwia Przezdziecki, Clerk, Room 1405, Whitney Block, Queen’s Park, Toronto, ON M7A 1A2. Fax: 416-325-3505. Email: sylwia_przezdziecki@ ontla.ola.org.

The Pre-Budget Consultation schedule begins January 24 in London and ends February 1 at Queen’s Park in Toronto. Hearings will also be held in London, Thunder Bay, Timmons and Ottawa.

Family Literacy Day Jan. 27: encourage the love of learning

Family Literacy Day is an annual initiative taking place on January 27 to encourage families to learn together all year round. The theme this year is Play for Literacy. Playing games creates a strong family bond, promotes language comprehension and improves reading skills. Literacy is more than reading and writing – there are so many fun games that you can play together as a family to help everyone improve their skills while spending quality time together.

ABC Life Literacy Canada offers some suggestions for fun play-based literacy activities the whole family will enjoy:

• Host a family game night where everyone is encouraged to read instructions, actively participate and keep score. Invite another family over for a friendly competition!

• Follow a recipe to make a batch of cookies. Not only will it help improve math skills but there’s also a yummy treat at the end!

• Play an active game such as ‘Simon Says’, which improves comprehension skills.

• Have a scavenger hunt! Give your kids a list of items that have been hidden around the house and ask them to find them.

There are also lots activities to enjoy on the Family Literacy Day website. Go to FamilyLiteracyDay.ca and join in a nationwide game to turn Canada orange. Using a new interactive events tracking map online, each of Canada’s 10 provinces and 3 territories will see their orange colouring intensify as the number of events registered increases. Ontario is in the lead, but you can register your event or family activity and help your province win! Submissions received prior to January 14, 2011 will be automatically entered to win a Family Literacy Day Hasbro prize pack. You can also download an activity book, enter a colouring contest and participate in the weekly Literacy Day Challenge.

Tires Slashed

On January 7, Leamington OPP received a report of mischief to three vehicles parked near the 10 block of Wakefield Ave. The tires were slashed. The mischief occurred sometime overnight.

Later on January 7, police received a second similar report of mischief to all the tires of two vehicles while they were parked near the 60 block of Victoria Ave.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Leamington OPP at 519-3265373.

Cocaine Related Charges Laid

On January 8 at 6:24 p.m., Leamington OPP and Essex County OPP stopped a 2000 Chrysler CXL on Orange Street in Leamington. As a result, the three occupants were arrested for possession of crack cocaine (approx. 1 gram). A 39-yearold Leamington woman was charged with trafficking – cocaine, and possession of cocaine. Also charged with possession of cocaine are a 52-year-old Chatham woman and a 55-year-old man from Ohsweken.

Fatal Collision

On January 6 at 9:30 p.m., Tecumseh OPP responded to a two-vehicle serious collision which had occurred on County Road 46, west of the intersection of Sexton Side Road, Town of Tecumseh.

A silver 2000 Honda Accord was traveling eastbound when it lost control negotiating a slight left curve and entered the past of westbound 2010 silver Dodge Caravan.

The lone driver of the Honda, 70-year-old Vince Malenfant of Kingsville, was transported to Hotel Dieu Grace Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The lone driver of the Dodge Caravan, 52-year-old David Coatsworth of Lakeshore, suffered minor injuries.

The roadway was closed for several hours while OPP Traffic Collision Investigators collected evidence from the scene.

Large Theft of Business Mail

On January 6 the Essex County OPP Criminal Investigation Unit and Tecumseh OPP investigated the theft of business mail from the Oldcastle Industrial area in Tecumseh.

Tecumseh OPP received a report of two suspicious male parties travelling in a white minivan. The van was located in the area of County Road 19 and County Road 42. The investigation revealed the two male occupants were in possession of a large quantity of mail containing cheques and credit cards (over $300,000) addressed to local businesses. Stolen mail was hidden throughout the vehicle.

Miroslav Gresko, age 33, and Stefan Conka, age 26, of Hamilton, Ontario, were arrested and have been charged jointly with the following charges:

• 2 counts of Theft Under $5000 Sec. 334 (b) of the Criminal Code.

• 7 counts of Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000 Sec. 354(1) of the Criminal Code.

• Theft from Mail Sec. 356(1)(a)(i) Criminal Code.

• Theft from Mail Sec. 356(1)(b) Criminal Code.

The accused parties have been held in custody. Essex County OPP Criminal Investigation Unit continues to investigate. Anyone with information is asked to contact Essex County OPP at 519-723-2491.

Breach Alcohol Conditions

On January 8 at 12:30 a.m., Kingsville OPP stopped a Ford Windstar on Queen Street. The investigation determined the female passenger, a 29-year-old Windsor woman, to be breaching her alcohol conditions. As a result the accused was arrested and charged with Breaching Probation Order Sec 733.1(1) Criminal Code. She was released on a Promise to Appear with a first appearance court date of Feb. 23, 2011 in Windsor.

Charged With Impaired Driving

On January 9 at 2:52 a.m., Kingsville OPP stopped a 2000 Pontiac Sunfire on Highway 3 and County Road 23, Kingsville. The driver, a 35-year-old female from Leamington, was arrested for impaired driving. She was subsequently charged with impaired operation of a motor vehicle and failing to provide a breath sample. She has a court date in Windsor on January 20.

Leamington Br. 84 Legion news

By Lisa Cowen-Tehonchuk

The Grand Opening and Members’ Christmas Party held December 18th was a great success. Thank you to all who came and to those who helped out.

Now that the holidays are over, we are back to normal hours. Monday and Tuesday from 6:30 to close, Wednesday and Thursday from noon to 6 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to close, and Saturday from noon till 6 p.m.

On January 29 the Branch is holding a dart tournament for women only. Registration is at 11 a.m., play at noon. Doubles and teams are $5 per event. You do not have to be a member to put in a team.

Don’t forget that the Branch hosts Friday night darts that are open to the public. Play begins at 8 p.m.

The Seniors Dinner and Dance was held on Wednesday, January 12 from 3 p.m.-6 p.m. with entertainment by Gord Ciliska.

The next Executive meeting is January 19 at 7 p.m. The next General meeting is February 2 at 7 p.m.

Cancer patients need rides to cancer treatment

Cancer patients in Essex County need rides to cancer treatment and the Canadian Cancer Society’s Essex County Unit needs more volunteer drivers to be able to meet the demand.

“We are pleased that last year we provided cancer patients with 6,544 rides to their cancer related appointments,” said Judy Lund, manager of the Essex County Unit. “Our present pool of volunteer drivers has dwindled due to various reasons such as moves and vacations so we now find ourselves in the position of having to turn some requests down.

Drivers are needed across Essex County. Simply getting to treatment can be a difficult task for many cancer patients, especially if they are also dealing with physical or financial challenges or if the treatment centre is far from home. For over 40 years, across Ontario, the Canadian Cancer Society has been assisting people who need help getting to and from cancer-related care by providing rides.

Canadian Cancer Society volunteer drivers pick up patients from their home and take them to their local hospital or regional cancer centre for treatment. When treatment is done, the volunteer driver makes sure patients get home safely. As well as rides, volunteer drivers also provide friendly support and kindness to people who are often stressed by their diagnosis and treatment.

To learn more about becoming a Canadian Cancer Society volunteer driver, contact Christine at the Essex County Unit at 519-254-5116.

The Canadian Cancer Society leads the way in the fight against cancer by funding research on all types of cancer, offering credible information on cancer, treatment and risk reduction, and providing support for people living with cancer. For more information about the Society’s services or cancer, call 1-888-939-3333 or visit www.cancer.ca.

REC ROUND-UP REC ROUND-UP

Take advantage of these options at the Complex:

• The ever-popular New Year Shape-Up Special for $109.00 plus HST.

• Gift certificates to meet with a personal trainer or nutrition and wellness coach.

• Youth swim/gym/skate pass

• Student home for the holidays membership!

• Gift certificates available for swim lessons!

Complex Membership: Have you checked out the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex and all the programs and classes that we offer? We invite you to come in and take a tour! Our weight and cardio training rooms are full of the latest equipment. Whether you’re just beginning or if you exercise to an advanced regimen, everyone can comfortably work out and get fit. One compact FEE for annual membership, and there are no enrollment or initiation fees.

Rental Options: The Complex has all kinds of different rental options. The possibilities are endless, so contact us today to plan your event.

• Ice rental times are available for pick-up hockey groups or for recreational skates.

• Meeting rooms for small or larger workshops, bridal showers, family reunions or company events.

• Plan your parties at the Complex. If you need to host your team or a larger group of friends, consider an activity party like swimming, skating or gym/ fitness, followed by a pizza party for the whole gang.

A HAPPY & HEALTHY NEW YEAR IS OUR WISH... FROM THE COMPLEX TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!

We have something for every...body!

Cardinal Carter Corner

Staff and students at Cardinal Carter are busier than ever after a restful Christmas Break. The New Year brings with it the end of Semester One and students are encouraged to start preparing now for the upcoming examinations. Period one exams will be written Wed. Jan. 26, period two Jan. 27, period 3 Jan. 28, and period 4 on Mon. Jan. 31. Semester

Two commences Wed. Feb.

2. Good luck, Cougars!

Parents of Grade 8 students interested in attending Cardinal Carter next year are invited to the Gr. 8 Open House on Thurs. Jan.

13 at 7:00 p.m. Information about the programs offered at Cardinal Carter will be presented and a tour of academic departments will be available. The Open House provides an excellent opportunity to learn more about offerings such as French Immersion, Specialist High Skills Majors, Arts programs, Co-op, Enrichment Programs in Math and Science, Advanced Placement options, athletic programs and so much more. Grade 8 students are also encouraged to attend as the Cardinal Carter Student Council will be hosting games, activities and a dance from

Leamington Area Ecumenical Refugee Committee

a Christmas party and then the Karin people invited them to worship with them, have dinner and presented them with gifts. LAERC would like to extend an invitation to individuals and more churches looking for a mission project to join with them in this exciting humanitarian project. LAERC needs more help with settling a family, keeping appointments, shopping and even helping with their English. Of course, they need money too, so make a donation and a receipt will be given. The next fundraiser is March 26 at 7 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church. It is an evening of song with Dale Butler and other local musicians. For further information, please contact Carolyn Reid at 519-326-6776.

(Photo submitted)

7:00-8:30 p.m.

What else is happening at CC?

Students in grade 9 applied and academic mathematics courses will be writing the EQAO assessment in mathematics Jan. 19th and 20th. Students are encouraged to attend the afterschool tutorials taking place Tues. Jan. 11 and Tues. Jan. 18 to aid in preparation for this province-wide assessment.

Caprese Salad

This salad is remarkably simple, but impressive in its presentation! Dazzle your friends with this dish as a gourmet starter to a meal. Makes 4 servings

4 SUNSET® Kumato™ tomatoes 4 medium size fresh mozarella balls (the kind that are packed in water), drained well 1 small bunch fresh basil 4 Tbsp purchased balsamic glaze* 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil coarse sea salt & fresh cracked black pepper

Cut each tomato into 4 slices. Cut each mozarella ball into 3 slices. On individual plates, stack the tomato slices alternating with the mozzarella slices and basil leavesstarting and finishing with a tomato. Reserve extra basil for garnish.

Drizzle each tomato mozarella stack with 1 Tbsp of the balsamic glaze and a 1/2 Tbsp of extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Garnish with additional basil.

Chef’s Notes: *Balsamic glaze is found in many wellstocked grocery stores and specialty food shops. If you are unable to find it, then you can make it easily. Combine 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 Tbsp sugar in a small pan. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Reduce heat to low and slowly simmer for 10 to 12 minutes to reduce liquid to about 1/4 cup or a light syrup texture. Watch carefully so as not to over-reduce. Store covered at room temperature until needed.

We welcome feeder school students visiting this week to build dragster cars. The annual dragster races will be held at Cardinal Carter on Jan. 21st.

Parents are reminded of the upcoming School Council meeting which will be held in the library Wed. Jan. 19 at 7:00 p.m.

The

– LAERC – will meet on Monday, January 17 at 6:30 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church. LAERC held

2011 FLYERS UPDATE

Ron Soucie will wear #2 and Eric Mayor will wear #26… Matt Ogden, Ryan Crevatin and Kody Polin lead the Flyers with 24 points each. Ogden has 16 goals and 8 assists while Crevatin and Polin both have 6 goals and 18 assists… The Flyers have a busy schedule this week. Tonight (Wednesday) they travel to London, Thursday they are home to Lambton Shores, and Saturday they are home to Sarnia.

flyers undefeated in 2011

By Melissa McCarty

The Leamington Flyers are undefeated in 2011 after beating St. Thomas 6-2 on Thursday and edging Lambton Shores 5-4 in a shootout on Saturday.

After a nearly three-week break for the holidays, the Flyers returned to action on Thursday night to face the St. Thomas Stars. Going into the game, the Stars were sitting in fourth position in the Western Conference with 42 points while the Flyers were idling in seventh place with 31 points.

The Flyers took an early lead when they scored less than four minutes into the game and they never looked back. Tony Spidalieri had a goal and two assists while Brett Babkirk and Matt Ogden each had a goal and an assist. Singles went to Eric Leardi, Jared Dennis and Tyler Quigley. Kody Polin chipped in with two assists and Colin Greeley was solid in net making 33 saves to earn his 11th win of the season.

Forward Tony Spidalieri said the team realized the importance of getting a good start following the break. “It’s good to get a good start like this so teams notice that we’re coming to play,” Spidalieri said. “Everyone came to play tonight and everyone played really hard.”

Despite taking an early lead, Flyers head coach Tony Piroski didn’t think the Flyers played that great at the beginning of the game but was happy to see the play improve throughout the game.

“I thought we looked a little rusty at the beginning of the game but we worked hard and got rolling as the game went on,” Piroski said. Piroski also felt the Flyers got a spark with the addition of defensemen Ron Soucie and Eric Mayor. Soucie came to the Flyers from the Sarnia Sting in the Ontario Hockey League and he also spent a season with the Windsor Spitfires. Mayor had previously played for the Flyers in the 2008/2009 season and had been with the Belle River Canadiens in the Great Lakes Junior C since then.

“Mayor brings some muscle to the team and Soucie’s experience and steadiness are going to be a big asset,” Piroski said. “They’re going to make the whole team better.” Mayor, a Belle River native, is happy to be back with the Flyers. “It feels good to be back,” Mayor said. “It’s a great group of guys and I’m going to play hard to help out where I can.”

Soucie, a LaSalle native, was happy that his first game with the Flyers had a favourable outcome and he said he’s looking forward to contributing to the team. “I want to be a leader in the room,” Soucie said.

“And I want to calm things down in the back end and take this team deep into the play-offs.”

#10, Alex Seguin scored the winning shoot out goal against Lambton Shores

On Saturday the Flyers travelled to Dorchester to take on the last-placed Lambton Shores Predators. After a scoreless first period, the Flyers had a 4-1 lead at the end of the second period with goals from Kody Polin, Nick Nicodemo, Ryan Crevatin and Chris Scott. But the Predators rallied in the third period and tied the game up 4-4 and after a scoreless overtime, the Flyers found themselves in a shootout for only the second time this season.

The Flyers were unsuccessful in their previous shootout attempt earlier in the season and on the flip side, two of Lambton Shore’s four wins this season have come as a result of a shootout. Goaltender Colin Greeley stopped all three shots that he faced and forward Alex Seguin was the lone goal scorer for the Flyers, securing the 5-4 win.

The Flyers still remain in seventh place but Saturday’s win put them one point behind Chatham and two points behind Sarnia and brings them back to .500 on the season with a record of 16-16-3.

FLYERS FLASHBACKS

Back row (l - r): Dave Drummond, Ward Hutchins, Dean Ferguson, Bill Hewitt, Kevin Leslie, Dave Reid. Middle row: Bob Taylor, Mike Sherman, Rob Johnston, Terry Quick, Carl Stadler, Tim Oliphant. Front row: Ed Tiessen, Pat Hillman, Mark Bowman, Jerry Knox, Mark Matheson, Mike Brennan. (Photo courtesy of Bob Platsko)

The Sun County Panthers Bantam AAA team came in third in the Pittsburg Winter Classic Bantam Tournament Dec. 29-31 with a record of 3 wins and 2 losses. They played H.C. Metallurg (from Evengi Malkin’s hometown), Washington Little Capitals (Alexander Ovechkin’s), Pittsburg Penguins Elite (from Mario Lemieux’s son’s team) and Pittsburg Penguins EE (the other Pittsburg AAA level travel team). Pictured from front to back and left to right: Goalies Matthew Mancina (#1) and Everett Omstead (#30), Andrew Badour (#13), Frankie Ciacelli (#10), Hayden Hodgson (#11), Devon Palliani (#20), Jared Leslie (#15), Robbie Machurek (#2), Joey Manchurek (#16), Coach Mark Cadotte, Head Coach Frank Evola, Robbie Lavoie (#17), Scott Florence (#18), Cody Leeming(#19), Zack Parlette (#4), Mark Manchurek (#12), Tim Charlton (#14), Cameron Dawson (#9), Andrew DelGreco (#5) and Trainer Tony Mancina.

Open water season over – ice fishing begins

The Ministry of Natural Resources would like to remind anglers to plan ahead before heading out on the ice to fish:

• Register your ice hut. Contact your local ministry office for registration requirements.

• Make sure you know the local fishing regulations.

• Check ice conditions with local ice hut operators.

• Let others know where you’re planning to fish and when you plan to return.

• For your safety and comfort, wear appropriate clothing and ensure you are properly equipped. Many anglers wear floater suits and carry a set of ice picks.

For more information on fishing regulations, please consult the 2011 Fishing Regulations Summary, available at ServiceOntario/Government Information Centres, licence issuers and at ontario.ca/fishing.

Peewee AEs beat Amherstburg

The Uni-Fab Southpoint Peewee AE hockey club travelled to Amherstburg this past Sunday evening after a 2½-week Christmas layoff. The kids took on the Stars at the new Amherstburg arena.

The good guys looked a little sluggish in the first period, which ended in a 0-0 tie. The kids went up 3-0 after two periods of play on goals by Evan Loveless, Luc Ribble and Mitchell Demelo. Assists went to Gerrid LaSala, Dylan Sample and Mitchell Chausse.

The Stars got a quick one back in the third to make it 3-1; however, the Caps immediately replied with a nifty wrap-around goal by Luc Ribble with the assist going to Jack Hannigan. The Caps continued to pour it on with goals from Evan Loveless and Mitchell Chausse. Assists went to Dawson Iles and Mitchell Demelo. The Stars got one back and the final score was 6-2 Capitals.

Chiquita Santos had a strong game in net for the Caps with several key saves in the third period to take the win.

The kids take on the undefeated Windsor Jr. Spitfires next Saturday. Go get ’em Caps!

MAX FM hits airwaves in Leamington and area

By Sheila McBrayne

If you’ve tried to tune in to your favourite country music station at 92.7, then you’ve now been introduced to Leamington’s new 92.7 MAX FM.

On Tuesday, January 4 at 6 a.m., the former CJSP Country 92.7 transformed into the new 92.7 MAX FM. According to Blackburn Radio Operations Manager for WindsorEssex Rod Martens, the change was predicated on the surprising signal strength of their other country station.

The Blackburn Radio family of stations has Country 95.9 FM in Windsor, which serves Windsor and Essex County and another sister station, 92.9/630 AM CFCO, in Chatham, which reaches the Tilbury and Wheatley market. The signal for 95.9 FM comes into Leamington and surrounding area and created two country stations in one market area, owned by the same company.

Blackburn considered other types of music, but found there was an opening for this type of format. “Mix 96.7 is strong in this area and provides the current hits mix. 92.7 Max FM will be like listening to your record collection, without the B-sides; it’s an inch deep and a mile wide spanning from the 1960s to 2010,” said Martens.

“I think we’ve found a perfect fit for what’s missing in this area. It’s called an adult hits station – 92.7 MAX FM – and features everything from Abba to ZZ Top,” said Martens. “We’re going to have a lot of fun with this. It’ll be a great at work, in your car, and at home,” he added.

Although MAX FM has already hit the airwaves, the official launch will be on Monday, January 17 when Cordell Green and Laura Carney return with the morning show. The full website will launch on the 17th as well at www.927maxfm.com (it’s now just a ‘splash’ page where you can listen live online and join their Facebook page).

According to Martens, the station is aiming for 55 minutes an hour of music.

“You’ll want to tune in. We have some surprises coming and I think it’s going to be a lot of fun,” concluded Martens.

Free online math tutoring program expanded

Grade 7 to 10 students in Leamington are benefiting this year from free online tutoring to help them succeed in math.

“I am pleased that our government has expanded Homework Help from 16 to 31 boards, including Greater Essex County DSB and Windsor-Essex Catholic DSB. This online resource will give students the boost they need to get ahead in math,” said MPP Pat Hoy. “This is a great program that supports our students outside of the classroom and gives them the extra help they need to be successful in school and in life.”

This year, 10,622 grade 7-10 students at GECDSB and 7,859 at WECDSB now have access to Ontario’s Homework Help program.

Homework Help is a free, confidential, real-time math tutoring service that connects certified Ontario teachers with

students who are looking for extra support. The service also offers a number of resources that are available to students and parents at any time, including: videos of best-practice tutorials; commonly asked questions; interactive math games; and a virtual locker where students can save their work.

Homework Help is available online five days a week: Sunday to Thursday, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Students will receive a login through their school which can then be used to access Homework Help at www.Ontario.ca/HomeworkHelp.

Homework Help expanded from 16 to 31 school boards this year. That means about 236,000 English-language students across Ontario will have access to Homework Help this year.

Midget AEs tie 4-4

On Sunday evening in Belle River the Bob Dick Plant Farm Midget AEs put forth one of their best efforts of the season with a come from behind 4-4 tie with the Jr. Canadians. By the midway point of the second period the Jr. Canadians jumped out to a 3-0 lead and the Caps were struggling to get anything going. The Caps struck for a power play goal when Andrew Prevett deflected home a Brian Travis shot. A minute later Jake Koning tipped a Taylor Omstead pass into the net and the Caps were right back in the game, trailing 3-2 heading into the third. Deryck Badz picked up an assist on the play

Southpoint tied the game with Omstead banging home a Brendan McGivern pass with Prevett picking up the second assist. The Caps came all the way back and scored the goahead goal on the power play when Tyler Lamb’s one-timer point blast found the back of the net. Travis picked up an assist on the play.

The lead was short lived as the Belle River squad raced in at the drop of the puck from centre ice and scored to tie the game at 4-4. Both teams had good scoring chances in the final minute but time ran out and the final score was a 4-4 tie. Tyler Jackson was in net for the Caps and played well earning the tie.

The Bob Dick Plant Farm Midget AEs returned to Bluewater League play on Friday evening in Wheatley and were edged by the league-leading LaSalle Sabres 2-1. The Caps came out strong and missed an empty net opportunity in the first minute of play only to see the Sabres break out and capitalize on a similar scoring chance and take a 1-0 lead.

LaSalle scored before the end of the first and opened up a 2-0 lead heading into the second. The second period was scoreless with both teams having several good scoring chances.

Early in the third, Taylor Omstead set up Brendan McGivern to cut the lead to one. Matt Livingstone picked up the second assist. Southpoint kept applying pressure but the LaSalle defenders were able to keep the puck out and the game ended in a 2-1 defeat. Matt Chamberlain was strong in the Caps net making some excellent saves to keep LaSalle off the score sheet.

Peewee A’s break out of scoring slump

Southpoint Capitals Pee Wee A team, sponsored by Gabriele Floor & Home, broke out of

their scoring slump just in time for playdowns. Scoring 11 goals in their last two games has helped the Capitals regain their confidence and winning ways.

Taking on the Chatham Maroons this past weekend helped start the goal parade by scoring 5 in a 5-1 win. The scoring continued on Sunday in the first game of their playdown series against the St. Thomas Stars, by winning 6-0 at home.

Weekend goals came from Kody Epp (2), Rory DiNiro (2), Eric Prudence (2), Evan Mastronardi (1), Brayden Klemens (1), Matthew Taylor (1), Noah Santos (1) and Bailey Loveless (1).

Atom majors down one in playdowns

Reid Funeral Home Atom Majors dropped their first game of a six-point series to St. Thomas 4-3. There was no scoring in the first period as each team tried to find the other team’s weakness.

The Caps opened the scoring in the second period with a goal by Matt Travis from Justin Brown and Tyler Zsebok.

The Stars tied it up late in the second and took a two-goal lead in the third. The Caps charged back and scored two goals to tie it up. Scoring was from Mason Gow assisted Spencer Wiebe and Gioia DiCiocco, and Justin Brown from Colton Major.

St. Thomas got a luck bounce late in the third. Caps goaltender Tyler Dibbley stoned the St. Thomas player on a breakaway, only to have the trailer pot the rebound in for the gamewinner. Great effort from the whole team.

Game 2 is at 7:00 p.m. this Friday night on the Heinz rink.

School

LEAMINGTON CAMPUS INVEST CAREER COUNSELLING CENTRE

215 Talbot Street East, Leamington, ON N8H 3X5 Phone: 519-322-1688

Do you need a high school diploma?

We offer adult night school credit courses leading to an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD, OSS) ADULT SECONDARY CREDIT PROGRAM

A Secondary School Diploma is only granted by the Ministry of Education and is the diploma recognized by employers, colleges, universities apprenticeship programs.

Night School Credit Courses are offered at the Mason Educational Centre in Windsor February 7 to May 31, 2011 - Call for information at 519-253-5006 ext. 11000 Night Credit Courses are offered at Leamington District Secondary School on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from February 8 to May 19, 2011.

GLS40 - Advanced Learning Strategies, Skills for Success After Secondary School (Open) this course is designed for mature students who require Grade 9 and 10 courses OLC40 - Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course Call 519-322-1688 for further information

Course Information

• All courses are delivered as teacher-led classes with in-class instruction

• No tuition costs for legal residents fo Windsor and Essex County

• Only courses with sufficient enrolment will run

• New students may register for one course only

Who Can Register For All Courses and Programs?

• Adult residents of Windsor and Essex County

• Age 18 and older and out of school for at least one year

What Is Needed To Register For All Courses and Programs?

• Register in person only

• Picture identification required

• Student fee of $10.00 (cash) required on registration

• Birth certificate or Proof of Citizenship required

• Immigrants require immigration papers, proof of TB skin test and English translation of previous school records

Requirements For Registration In A Credit Course

Assists were from Darrin Dimenna, Ryan Wall (2), Reid Jackson (2) , Brayden Klemens, Quinn Bowman, Eric Prudence, Noah Santos and Brett Enns.

Next weekend the boys head out to St. Thomas for game 2 on Saturday followed by game 3 on Sunday at home.

• Up-to-date transcript of previous education required for registration in credit courses and previous school records for recent immigrants

• Proficiency in English is a requirement. ESL students wishing to take credit courses must be CLBA level 6 (assessment to determine level may be required, fee for assessment $75.00)

• $50.00 (cash) textbook deposit and consumables fee per credit course is required the first day of class ($40.00 is refundable)

Register at:

• Leamington Campus, INVEST CAREER COUNSELLING CENTRE 215 Talbot Street East, Leamington, ON N8H 3X5

Contact Martha at 519-322-1688 for information

Registration will take place Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. REGISTER NOW

Are you interested in Correspondence Courses?

• Independent study courses

• Available to adults 18 years or older and out of school for at least six months

• $50.00 (cash) Credit Assessment Consultation Fee

• Register in person only by scheduled appointment. Please call to book your appointment in advance. ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS AVAILABLE

Do you need literacy skills?

Do you know an adult who needs literacy skills?

We offer Literacy and Basic Skills classes to adults during the day and evening.

• Learn to read

• Improve reading skills

• Improve basic math skills

• Morning and evening literacy classes are available in Leamington starting February 7, 2011.

Do you need to learn English?

We offer English as a Second Language Classes - ESL

• Morning ESL classes are available in Leamington

• Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

• ESL evening classes available Tuesday and Thursday, 6:45 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. starting February 8

• Registration daily from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Do you want to obtain your GED - General Education Development Certificate?

We assist students preparing to write the GED. The GED is an international high school equivalency-testing program for adults who do not have a high school diploma. You must be 19 years of age or older, an Ontario resident, out of secondary school for at least one year and you must not be a graduate of a North American high school. The GED will help you meet job screening requirements, meet provincial requirements with your organization and assist you in attaining personal goals.

• GED manuals for students $30.00 (cash)

• GED assessments $50.00 (cash) plus HST

• Upgrading for GED available @ $10.00/hour

31 charges laid on area waterways

Ministry of Natural Resources conservation officers laid 31 charges and issued 15 warnings during sport fishing and hunting enforcement patrols on area waterways during the fall.

Officers checked 345 resident anglers and hunters and 110 non-resident anglers and hunters in the Essex, ChathamKent and Lambton County waters of Lake St. Clair, Lake Erie and the Detroit and St. Clair rivers. Overall compliance with Ontario’s sport fishing, hunting and public safetyrelated laws was 90%.

A total of 31 charges and 15 warnings were issued for the following offences:

• fishing without a licence

• hunting waterfowl without a licence

• failing to produce a fishing or hunting licence

• angling with more than the permitted number of lines

• hunting waterfowl within a closed area on Lake St. Clair

• hunting waterfowl with an unplugged shotgun

• hunting waterfowl with toxic lead shot

• hunting waterfowl with an incomplete migratory game bird hunting permit

• making a false statement to a conservation officer, and

• having an open container of liquor in a boat.

To report a natural resources violation, call 1-877-TIPSMNR toll-free anytime. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS.

Golden Years mini golf

Forty-three players came out for mini golf on January 6.

In first place was Team #6 – Stan Vickery, Pete Daudlin and Iggy Arner – with a total of 244, just 4 over par.

Second place toonies went to Team #1 – Steve Vigh, Bill Ward and John Murphy – who shot 247.

In third place were the Queens – Team #13 – Andy Orsini, Ralph Butler and Ethel Ferguson with a 249 finish.

The single round low score was a 36 shot by Murray Knox, who added a 40 for the next round to capture the low play total of 76.

Other low single rounds were a 37 by Barry Sweet, 38 by Tom Hyatt, Iggy Arner, Pete Daudlin and John Murphy, 39 for Lloyd Honey and Stan Vickery, and even par 40s by Steve Vigh, Ethel Ferguson, Andy Orsini, Tom Bondy, Mary Ann Vickery, Tom Hyatt, Rose Taylor, Julia Kos, Audrey Knox and Barb Arner. An under par 78 total was carded by Tom Hyatt, and even par 80s showed for Stan Vickery, Iggy Arner, Barry Sweet and Mary Ann Vickery.

Holes-in-one were a remarkable 8 for Murray Knox, 6 for Andy Orsini, 5 for Barb Arner, and 3 each for Art and Barry Sweet, Pete Daudlin, Iggy Arner and Liz Scratch. A pair fell for Bryon Walker, John Murphy, Madeline Butler, Audrey Knox, Bill Mayville, Anne Bondy, Doug and Mary Ann Vickery, Betty McManus and Gary Honey. Single aces dropped for Bill and Rose Taylor, Steve Vigh, Stan Vickery, Barb Murphy, Bill Ward, Tom Bondy, Stu Folster, Gerrit Vriesen, Wayne Reid, Colleen Pearse, Nancy Hill, Eleanor Brook, Cami Keith, Lloyd Honey and Winnie Moore. A total of 70 holes-in-one showed for the day.

Join the gang and have some FUN on Thursday, January 13 at 9:30 a.m. at Colasanti’s.

Meet Jon Brett...

Jon Brett was born in Essex, Ontario, in 1983. He is a guitarist/music teacher and owner of Kingsville Music Centre on 171 Division Street North in Kingsville, providing private music lessons in guitar, bass, drums, piano, ukulele and vocal (singing lessons). There are also have strings, accessories, instruments and music books available at the store. From as far back as Jon can remember he has always wanted to play music. As a young child he played around with an old guitar that was at his home and when he would visit his uncle he would play on the piano. If anyone had a musical instrument, he wanted to try to play it. He also remembers going on a family vacation to Disney World in Florida and coming home with a set of maracas.

While in grade 4 Jon started taking piano lessons with Mrs. Wilson for two years, and at Maplewood Public School he took the music program and played the trombone. In grade 8 he took up the electric guitar, taking lessons from Lonnie Boose. Once he got to Essex High School he joined the Jazz Band and the Concert Band, playing the trombone under the direction of music teacher Mr. Bob Fazecash.

When in his last year of high school Jon started classical guitar studies with Dominic Bertucci of Windsor, studying guitar for one year to help prepare for his entrance audition for the University of Windsor Faculty of Music. He received a standing ovation at his audition, a good start for his musical journey.

After 4 years of university, Jon received his Honors Degree Bachelor of Music individualized with a focus on Classical Guitar and Composition. He graduated in 2007 and started teaching at C.R. Music Store in Leamington, then in 2008 he decided to start his own business. He lives in Kingsville with his wife Amy and their lovely 9-month-old daughter Jaelyn.

Time spent practising: Jon plays every day when teaching, as well as personal practise of musical pieces for performances and learning songs for weddings, etc. He usually plays one hour a day of serious study, still doing his scale training which he recommends to all his students.

Venues: Jon performs his classical and finger-style guitar at weddings, funerals, corporate functions, coffee houses, fundraising concerts

Stork Stork Report Report

Keller - Shannon and Paul of Leamington, a boy on December 9, 2010

Palma- Marisol Palma and Edgar Pina of Leamington, a boy on December 22, 2010

Harms - Justina and Isaak of Leamington, a girl on December 22, 2010

Biggley - Helena and Andrew of Leamington, a girl on December 28, 2010

The Stork Report is sponsored by

and churches. He also plays as a duo with a violinist at weddings, as well as solo shows.

Music Music Profiles... Profiles...

Most interesting place played: Jon played on the roof of the Cleary Auditorium for a wedding ceremony during the Red Bull Plane Races. The wedding had to be postponed for 45 minutes to wait for the planes to stop flying near the rooftop – it was just too loud – but they had the best seats in the city for the air race.

Most significant performance: Jon wrote a song for his girlfriend Amy when he was 16 years old, then when they married he had the song transcribed for flute and classical guitar. He had two University of Windsor music students perform the song at the wedding during the church service.

Also, while Jon was a member of the University Singers they performed Mozart’s Requiem Mass together with the Symphony Orchestra and the Windsor Symphony Chorus. Ironically, they performed this piece of music on the same day Pope John Paul II passed away. CDs and recordings to date: Jon has performed on several CDs for local artists, continued on page 18

NAMIOntario (National Alliance on Mental Illness) in association with Leamington District Memorial Hospital is pleased to offer this program again this year.

THE FAMILY TO FAMILY EDUCATION PROGRAM

The program is designed for the families and friends of individuals with, or exhibiting signs or symptoms, of a serious and persistent mental illness for example: schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar illness, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder or borderline personality disorder.

The 11 week course starts Tuesday, February 8, 2011 from 7:00 to 9:30 p.m. There is no charge for those who participate.

Participants in the program last year described it as: empowering, enlightening, insightful, encouraging, comforting, and changed my life!

Register by calling 226-946-5806

Registration is limited to 18. www.namiontario.ca

Music Profile - Jon Brett

continued from page 17

playing electric and acoustic guitar for Justin Latam and Trish Wales. He is currently working on his first CD of original music. Jon has applied for a Canadian Recording Grant through “Factor”. Hopefully in 2011 we will see a finished project.

If you could play with anyone who would it be?: In the electric guitar world it would be the late Randy Rhoads, who played with Ozzy Osborne’s band. In the classical world it would be Andres Segovia and John Williams, both classical guitarists.

Future plans: In 5 year’s time, Jon would like to be performing more of his original compositions and continue to record, as well as doing more live performances. He wants to see his music business continue to grow.

Jon has performed at many weddings in the Essex County area as well as wineries such as Sprucewood Shores in Essex and the Last Friday Coffee House in Leamington. He will be at Knox Presbyterian Church on March 26 at 7 p.m. along with fellow musicians Dale Butler, Mosaic and the Karen Singers. The event is a fundraising concert for the Leamington Area Ecumenical Refugee Committee (LAERC).

You can contact Jon at www.kingsvillemusiccentre.com or phone 519-890-3328.

Canadian CrissCross

Free breakfast for seniors

There will be a free breakfast for seniors on Saturday, January 15 from 9:00-10:30 a.m. at Kingsville Court Retirement Residence, 240 Main St. E. Breakfast will be followed by a presentation on behalf of the Arthritis Society. All seniors are welcome to come and enjoy breakfast, and get some helpful information about living with arthritis. Reservations are suggested by not necessary. Call 519733-6558 to ensure a spot.

Elizabeth Neufeld

Elizabeth Neufeld, 84 years, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 6, 2011 at Royal Oak Long Term Care after enjoying a blessed Christmas with all her family.

Dear and devoted wife of the late Nick Neufeld (2004). Loving mother of Linda Driedger and husband Harry, Don and wife Deb, Denise Drummond and husband Randy. Cherished Oma of Lisa Marshall and husband Mike, Amy Samuelson and husband Donald, Melanie Hamman and husband Paul, Matt Neufeld and wife Laura, Jason Drummond, Stacey Drummond and husband Steve Brough, and proud great Oma of 7 great-grandchildren. Dear and special sister to Erna Klassen and late husband Alf, Hazel Tiessen and late husband Jack, and sister-in-law Mary Neufeld and late husband George. Predeceased by brother Jake Mathies and late wife Sue, and late sister-in-law Elvira Neufeld. Always remembered by her numerous nieces and nephews.

Our sincere gratitude to Dr. Tawil and the nurses and staff at Leamington Hospital as well as the entire staff at Royal Oak Long Term Care for their compassionate care and support for mom.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631), on Saturday, January 8, 2011 from 9:30 a.m. until time of funeral service to celebrate Elizabeth’s life at 10:30 a.m. Reverend Carson Culp officiated. Interment at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery followed.

As an expression of sympathy, donations made by cheque to the Leamington District Memorial Hospital Foundation would be appreciated. Family and friends are invited to share their words of comfort and remembrance at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.

SUTTON PLACE APARTMENTS

SOUTHPOINT SUN

1 and 2 bedroom apartments available. Fridge, stove, dishwasher, security building with elevator. Call 519-326-8746 or 519-990-8681 tf

FOR SALE MOFFAT electric stove, $50. Maytag electric washer and dryer, $150. Call 519-825-3583. ja12

FIREWOOD FOR SALEAsh and maple, delivered, $75/cord. Fireplace repair available. 519-825-7203 or 519-816-4218. ja12

BUILT-IN WHIRLPOOL DISHWASHER -excellent condition, $150. Call 519825-7503. ja12

RABBITS FOR SALE - 12 weeks old, 519-825-4525. ja12

Sensibly. Group meets every Monday 6 p.m. at Wheatley United Church. Call Elaine at 519-825-7993 or visit website: www.TOPS.org. Everyone welcome. tf

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 COMPUTER SERVICES

DISCOUNT COMPUTER

REPAIRS - 519-818-8194. Free p/u delivery. We fix all computers. Laptop screens replaced. P3 computers $40 up with warranty. ja12

A-Z DRIVERS WANTED

RENOVATIONS: Small jobs a specialty. Eavestroughing, decks, siding, windows, Gutter Cleaning Systems, furniture refinishing. Call Bill Siddall 519-825-3931 tf

EXPERIENCED OWNER OPERA-

TORS - REQUIREMENTS: Late model tractor; U.S. Border Crossing; FAST. COMPANYOFFERS: Paid tolls; Discount Fuel; Steady employment; Competitive mileage; Medical/dental plan available. TOLLFREE 1-800-567-2609 Ext. 208, Fax: 519-644-9059, www.elginmotor freight.com.

AUTOMOTIVE

MOTOR VEHICLE dealers in Ontario MUSTbe registered with OMVIC. To verify dealer registration or seek help with a complaint, visit www.omvic.on.ca or 1-800-943-6002.

If you're buying a vehicle privately, don't become a curbsider's victim. Curbsiders are impostors who pose as private individuals, but are actually in the business of selling stolen or damaged vehicles.

AUTOS FOR SALE

100% AUTO FINANCING APPROVAL

- We can get you approved for an automobile no matter what your circumstances are. Drive a little and save a lot. Over 300 vehicles to choose from. Apply online www.gabies.ca. GABIES AUTO SALES, 250 Springbank Dr., London, ON, Toll-Free 1-888-474-8815 / 519472-8815.

BUILDING MATERIALS

#1ASTEELBUILDING SALE! Save up to 60% on your new garage, shop, warehouse. 6 colors available! 40 year warranty! Free shipping, the first 20 callers! 1-800-457-2206. www.crown steelbuildings.ca.

CAREER TRAINING

MEDICALTRANSCRIPTION is rated

#2 for at-home jobs. Train from home with the only industry approved school in Canada. Contact CanScribe today! 1-800-466-1535. www.canscribe.com. info@canscribe.com.

Greenhouse vegetable packer looking for motivated individuals to fill the following positions:

Packer / Line Worker

Requirements:

•Packing experience an asset.

•Self-motivated and able to work. independently in a fast paced environment.

•Knowledge & experience working with fresh produce required.

•Able to work days, nights & weekends.

•Flexible hours required.

Mail or fax resumes by January 18, 2011 to:

Mucci Pac Ltd.

1876 Seacliff Drive

Kingsville, ON N9Y 2N1

Fax: 519-326-6397

No phone calls accepted and only suitable applicants will be contacted.

SERVICES

ELECTROLUX SALES & SERVICE: Complete line of vacuums and shampooers/ floor polishers. Will provide free estimate on Central Vac installations. Contact Dan Bailey. 519-825-7698. tf

BUSINESS OPPS.

80% COMMISSION TRAVELONLY has 500 agents across Canada.

Business opportunities with low investment, unlimited income potential, generous tax/travel benefits. Run your travel company, full-time, parttime from home. Register for FREE seminar, www.travelonly.ca, 1-800608-1117, Ext. 2020.

Energy Drinks = LIQUID PROFITS!

Distribute our hot selling, allCanadian, pro endorsed energy drinks. Exclusive retail/vending opportunity, limited areas. Investment required. Free samples/information package. 1-800-267-2321. Peak distributors.com.

NEED ADDITIONALINCOME?

Looking for Serious, Motivated Individuals Work from home. High Speed Internet And Telephone required. Free Training, flexible hours. Great income. www.wecare4 wellness.com.

BE YOUR OWN BOSS with Great Canadian Dollar Store. New franchise opportunities in your area. Call 1-877388-0123 ext. 229 or visit our website: www.dollarstores.com today.

TAKE CONTROLOF YOUR FUTURE. Invest 10 hrs/wk and build a serious business. You guide and train - no sales, no inventory, no risk. Great income! www.fromgreen2green.com.

WWW.PREMIERSOLARINC.COM

"Your Long Term Solar Partners"System Sales/Installations/ Financing/Dealership. Start Making Money with the 'MicroFITProgram' TODAY! Call Now! Toll-Free 1-877255-9580.

COMING EVENTS

FREE COUPONS! Attractions Ontario offers savings on Ontario's best attractions! Call 1-800-ONTARIO to receive your Passport filled with coupons or download them at www.attractions ontario.ca/ocna.

CARRIERS NEEED

To deliver the Southpoint Sun. Contact Melissa at 519-915-8004 or email: melissa@advantage flyerdistribution.com

BUSINESS SERVICES

LOOKING FOR NEW BUSINESS and added revenue? Promote your company in Community Newspapers across Ontario right here in these Network Classified Ads or in business card-sized ads in hundreds of wellread newspapers. Let us show you how. Ask about our referral program. Ontario Community Newspapers Association. Contact Carol at 905639-5718 or Toll-Free 1-800-387-7982 ext. 229. www.ocna.org FOR SALE

#1 HIGH SPEED INTERNET$24.95 / Month. Absolutely no ports are blocked. Unlimited Downloading. Up to 5Mps Download and 800Kbps Upload. ORDER TODAYAT www.acanac.ca or CALLTOLL-FREE: 1-866-281-3538.

AFREE TELEPHONE SERVICE - Get Your First Month Free. Bad Credit, Don't Sweat It. No Deposits. No Credit Checks. Call Freedom Phone Lines Today Toll-Free 1-866-884-7464. ASAFE, PROVEN "Restless Leg Syndrome" and "Leg Cramps" Cure That Always Gives You Instant Relief. www.allcalm.com 1-800-765-8660. **HOME PHONE RECONNECT** Call 1-866-287-1348. Prepaid Long Distance Specials! Feature Package Specials! Referral Program! Don't be without a home phone! Call to Connect! 1-866-287-1348.

CAN'TGETUPYOUR STAIRS? Acorn Stairlifts can help. Call Acorn Stairlifts now! Mention this ad and get 10% off your new Stairlift. Call 1-866981-6590.

REALESTATE

WE BUYHOUSES, if you need to sell, quick close, cash terms, caring and confidential. For more information CALLTOLL-FREE 1-866-400-8374.

(Including Evenings/Midnights)

If you are a caring and compassionate Personal Support Worker who understands and supports holistic care in a Christian environment and have a good attendance record and excellent interpersonal skills

forward your resume in confidence by January 18th, 2011 to:

Brenda Ascott, RN, Director of Care Leamington Mennonite Home 35 Pickwick Dr., Leamington, ON N8H 4T5 519-326-6109 / 519-326-3595 (fax) brenda@mennonitehome.ca

Formore information contact Yourlocal newspaper

LEGALSERVICES

PERSONALS

ARE YOU STILLSINGLE? Time for a New Year's Resolution. Call MISTY RIVER INTRODUCTIONS & discover the reason we've been around 15 years. Quality singles, individual service, no computer required. CALL(519) 658-4204, www.mistyriverintros.com.

ACRIMINALRECORD? We'll clear it! FREE Pardon & Waiver Evaluation. On Social Assistance? We Can Help! RCMPAuthorized Agency. Better Business Bureau Certified. Pardons/Waivers Toll-Free 1-800-5078043, www.pardongranted.ca

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Learn from the past, Master the present! Call a True Psychic now! $3.19/minute. 1-877-478-4410 (18+). 1-900-783-3800. Answers to all your questions!

DATING SERVICE. Long-term/shortterm relationships, FREE CALLS. 1877-297-9883. Exchange voice messages, voice mailboxes. 1-888-5346984. Live adult casual conversations -1on1, 1-866-311-9640, meet on chatlines. Local single ladies. 1-877-8045381. (18+)

STEELBUILDINGS

BUILDING SALE... "ROCK BOTTOM PRICES!" 25x30 $5449. 30x40 $7850. 32x60 $12,300. 32x80 $17,800. 35x60 $14,200. 40x70 $14,770. 40x100 $24,600. 46x140 $36,990. OTHERS. Front endwall optional. Pioneer MANUFACTURERS DIRECT 1-800-668-5422. STEELBUILDINGS PRICED TO CLEAR - Incredible end-of-season factory discounts on various models/sizes. Plus FREE DELIVERY to most areas. CALLFOR CLEARANCE QUOTE AND BROCHURE - 1800-668-5111 ext. 170.

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MORTGAGES

$$$ 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).

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FINANCIALSERVICES

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FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES

love

Enjoying puzzles, friendship

By Allison Siddall

Ida Wheeler, 80, and Frances Hasson, 85, residents of the Sun Parlor Home for Senior Citizens, are addicted – to jigsaw puzzles that is.

Frances has lived at the Sun Parlor Home for 3½ years and Ida marked a year in August. When Ida first came to the Home, staff sat her at Frances’ table in the dining room, guessing correctly that the two would hit it off. “They were right,” laughed Ida. “We both talk a lot.”

The ladies have known each other for years, but developed a closer friendship through their common enjoyment of jigsaw puzzles. They are now pretty much inseparable. “If you can find one, you will usually find the other,” said Ida.

Frances works on jigsaw puzzles just about every day.

“I do it more for therapeutic reasons, for my arms and my hands,” she said. “What I can’t reach, Ida can.”

Ida serves on the Residents Council as an advocate for others who live at the Sun Parlor Home. She also does exercises a couple of times a week, volunteers to help other residents play Bingo, and she decorates character cakes in her daughter’s kitchen as a hobby. In between these activities she can be found working a puzzle with Frances.

Frances’s love of puzzles goes back as far as she remembers. “I lived on a farm and we always had one up in the winter,” she said. “That’s all we had to do.”

Ida echoed the sentiment: “We lived in the country too, and I always had one to pass the time. We didn’t have all the fancy toys and other things.”

The biggest puzzle Frances ever worked on was 2,500 pieces. That was when she still lived in her own home and the puzzle covered her dining room table (with the leaves in). “It’s like an addiction, at least for me,” said Frances. “First I was addicted and then Ida got addicted.”

“It is an addiction,” agreed Ida. “Yes, it really is. We get great enjoyment out of doing the puzzles. The time goes by so fast and we get to spend time together visiting while we work at it. Sometimes the girls have to come by twice and say ‘Ida and Frances you have to come to the dinner table now.’

”

The latest jigsaw puzzle the ladies worked on was a 500-piece round one depicting kittens. They worked on it for three weeks or so, and on New Year’s Eve they were down to the last few pieces. “Neither one of us was leaving until the last pieces were in,” said Ida. “One of the men who works here joked with us after, saying, ‘I had no doubt in my mind you would finish it – you’re both bullheaded!’ ”

The next day the ladies started on a new puzzle, a 1,000-piece glow-in-the-dark country manor scene. “This one is going to take awhile,” said Frances. “We can’t wait to finish it and see it glow in the dark. Haven’t figured out how it is going to do that yet.”

Frances and Ida will have several months of enjoyment to come – Frances got three puzzles for Christmas and Ida got two. “We get a feeling of satisfaction from finishing a puzzle,” said Ida, “like we’ve accomplished something.”

Frances Hasson (left) and Ida Wheeler share a

for doing jigsaw puzzles. They are pictured here with the 500-piece kitten puzzle they finished New Year’s Eve and the new one they are starting. (Sun Photo)