Reflections of Canada Day fireworks
Leamington man dies in ATV crash
An ATV crash has claimed the life of 46-year-old Robert Desnoyers of Leamington.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is investigating the single vehicle fatality which occurred in the early morning hours of July 1, 2012, in Leamington.
Desnoyers was travelling on Road D, Leamington, when he went off the west shoulder of the roadway and struck a tree.
The OPP Technical Collision Investigators attended the scene. Alcohol is believed to have been a factor and the investigation is ongoing.
Arts @ the Marina
Marina attracted hundreds of visitors over the two-day event which had warm, but dry, weather this year. Andrew Banar (left) of Group Hug Apparel and the locally famous Be Strong Rock On t-shirts was one of the 65 artists with booths throughout Leamington Marina. Pictured with Andrew wearing his new Rock On t-shirt is Quinton Winter. Andrew, 20, has Down Syndrome and started the t-shirt business using his designs with guidance from his mother Karen Pickle. Andrew has been nominated as a Canadian Down Syndrome Hero as well as for the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. Andrew recently graduated from Cardinal Carter Secondary School where he also received three awards. Congratulations Andrew. Rock on! (SUN Photos)
The Municipality of Leamington’s Canada Day fireworks lit up the sky on Sunday, July 1. The spectacle in the sky reflected on the water was captured in this great photo by Shelly Quick.
Meet John Jacobs - always ‘on call’ for Leamington
By Bryan Jessop
The sirens may have stopped wailing for John Jacobs, but his service to the community of Leamington is running strong as ever.
The born-and-raised Leamington native is nearing the half-way point of serving his first term on municipal council, a notable change from his most recent career as a licensed paramedic and part-owner of Sun Parlour Emergency Services. On the other hand, Jacobs explained that the two responsibilities are not without their similarities.
“Having a business background gave me a good basic knowledge on how corporate structure runs,” Jacobs said. “I really wasn’t nervous when I started in council. The biggest surprise was drainage — that’s an issue where something always comes up.”
Jacobs and his older brothers Fred, Ed, Don and younger brother Mike started Sun Parlour Emergency Services in 1963. Previously, the family operated a fruit farm and market started by their father.
Ed founded the ambulance service, which started out with the five brothers (there are no sisters in the family) and two employees. Eventually, the business expanded to include services in Kingsville, Wheatley, Essex and Tilbury. In 2000, they submitted a request for proposal in ChathamKent and went on to serve in the neighbouring municipality.
At its peak, the business had a staff of about 200 paramedics and 25 ambulances serving in the two counties. Later, however, Essex County switched from a ‘private/ public’ ambulance service to one that was strictly in-house. The company applied for another bid in Chatham-Kent, but were bested by a group based in Nova Scotia.
After nearly 40 years, John decided to retire.
“I’ve seen a lot of heartbreaking things in those years and a lot of funny things too,” he explained.
In once instance, Jacobs was called to a residence with an occupant who had no measurable pulse. When he arrived at the home, Jacobs was greeted at the door by a man who said his services were no longer needed. The local paramedic be-
lieved that he arrived too late and the patient had died until the man at the door clarified, explaining that he was the one who had no pulse.
CELEBRATE THE WAR OF 1812! GENERAL BROCK’S SAIL AWAY AND OFFICERS’ MESS
Join us for an entire day of fun, festivities demonstrations and more! July 28/12, 6:00 pm: Join General Brock in the officer’s mess for an 1812 themed dinner buffet. Cash Bar. Music and entertainment. Costumes encouraged! Tickets $35.00/person. Activities all afternoon! The marina lawn will be bustling with 1812 re-enactors fur traders, canoes, wagons and artifacts of the period. Fun for the entire family. Contact Ronan Oliver for tickets or more information. 519-326-0834 or roliver@leamington.ca
WATER SERVICES UPDATE
Leamington Water Services has made its water infrastructure rehabilitation program very visible with 3 projects currently underway and the 4th just being awarded.
The first project on Wilkinson Drive is moving very well; about half of the water main has already been installed using a directional boring method to minimize the amount of restoration required at the end of the job.
The second project Westmoreland, Churchill and Noble has only the Westmoreland portion to complete with some restoration still underway on Churchill and Noble.
The third project Fuller / Grace Ave. is on target with a new water main installed. We are awaiting testing results so that the new water services can be installed.
The fourth project Fader / Brown St. is slated for Council meeting on July 9th with the awarded tender to be announced during the meeting. This will complete the rehabilitation program for this year.
Although the streets have been busier than normal with the amount of construction going on, it is all for the greater good of our customers.
RECYCLE CORRECTION-JULY ONLY
Please note recycling corrections for pickups in July 2012 - Urban pickups are on TUESDAYS and Rural pickups are on MONDAY. This change is for July ONLY.
MARRIAGE LICENSES & WEDDINGS:
Ontario Marriage Licenses are issued at the municipal office for $133.00. Proof of age, and all original documents are required – no photocopies accepted. Municipal Staff perform Civil Marriage Ceremonies during office hours, evenings and weekends. We now perform ceremonies outside the municipal border. Please call or attend the clerk’s office for more details.
UPCOMING EVENTS!
July 4 - Blood Donor Clinic. Kinsmen Complex
July 7 - Big Screen Movie Night. The Adventures of Tin Tin. Marina July 8 - Summer Serenade Concert. 4-5 pm. Robson Park
July 14 - OVA Beach Volleyball Tour. Seacliff Park
July 27 - 28 - Uptown Leamington Sidewalk Sales
July 28 - General Brock’s Officers’ Mess. Marina
UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS
July 9, 16, 23. Aug. 13, 20, 27
Council Chambers 7:00 pm.
View Leamington’s latest council agenda at www.leamington.ca
ENVIRONMENTAL TIP: use a rain barrel to collect water for your garden
LEAMINGTON
ONTARIO CANADA
MUNICIPALITY OF LEAMINGTON 111 Erie Street North, Leamington ON N8H 2Z9 519-326-5761 www.leamington.ca
“He told me that he took his pulse every morning and on that day, he had nothing. He said he pounded on his own chest and that got things going again.”
Jacobs described the September of 2000 fog-triggered multi-vehicle crash on Highway 401 just east of Windsor as one of the most difficult points in his career as a paramedic. With the exception of a few brief resting periods, he spent 36 hours on the scene of the horrific crash.
“It was like any other profession,” Jacobs said. “There’s a good side and a bad side. It was rewarding to render aid, but your heart goes out when there’s nothing you can do. It’s a job where you must have compassion, but you must also be able to step back or it will eat you up.”
Jacobs described similar sentiments as a municipal councillor, explaining that a gratifying feeling comes with playing a role in solving community problems, but at the same time made note of the frustrating feeling when a dire situation cannot be immediately remedied.
“With the political gearbox running, there always has to be a study done and a lot of planning before anything can be done. I realize these things are done to protect the community, but they are time consuming and costly. There are a lot of cases where we desperately want to help, but our hands are tied,” explained Jacobs.
Although Jacobs believes that it is important to maintain and protect Leamington’s agricultural industry, he also noted that the municipality should make efforts to attract light industry that is not as vulnerable to recession as the automotive sector. Jacobs also explained that he would like to see Leamington promote itself more as a tourist hub.
“Leamington has a lot to offer,” he stated. “WIth the wineries, lakes, beaches and Point Pelee, we could attract a lot more day trippers.”
As an avid boater, Jacobs is also quick to praise the municipal marina.
“It’s beautiful down there,” he said. “It’s one of the best around.”
Jacobs described the marina as not only a place to launch or dock a boat, but also as a crucial hotspot for social interaction.
“We can head down there on a Friday, come back on a Monday and never fire an engine,” he said. “There are a lot of visitors from Ohio and Michigan we mingle with and in turn, we’ll go and visit their marinas.”
Jacobs is no stranger to journeys to Michigan. It was at a wedding in Petoskey, a town located along the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay, where he met his wife-to-be, Donna. Donna, born in Flint, moved to Leamington with Jacobs after the two married in 1999.
Since the cross-border move, Donna has been involved with several community programs, including a position with the Leamington Chamber of Commerce, involvement
(Continued on Page 3)
JULY 4, 2012
John and Donna Jacobs (Photo submitted)
Meet John Jacobs...
(Continued from Page 2) with the South Essex Community Council and currently, volunteering with community dinners hosted by St. John’s Anglican Church on Wednesdays.
Although some residents attend the weekly dinners for companionship and camaraderie, others are in genuine need of nourishment.
“There are people who are hungry in this town,” John said. “I’m so happy to see that they can do something like this, especially being all volunteer-based.”
The Jacobs explained that in addition to a no-cost service, much of the food served at these charitable dinners is offered by local companies free of charge.
“It’s wonderful,” said Donna. “All I have to do is call and they have it ready for me.”
In his spare time, John enjoys woodworking, boating and yard work. He is also a dedicated football fan who cheers on the NFL’s Detroit Lions.
“They’re going to be there this year,” Jacobs said, despite the Lions’ lack of success in recent seasons.
On the college circuit, he has adopted the Spartans as his favourite team — prior to her move to Leamington, Donna worked at Michigan State University for 17 years. Her devotion to MSU teams extends well beyond football.
“During March Madness, I can’t get anywhere near the TV,” John said with a laugh.
On a more localized level of sport, Jacobs also enjoys watching his grandchildren play hockey and baseball. He explained that retiring from the emergency services business has allowed him to spend more time with all four of his grandchildren, Morgan and Mitchell (daughter and son
of his daughter Beth and her husband Bruce Krauter) and Jacklyn and Jace (daughter and son of his son John Jr.). John also has a second daughter, Lisa, who lives in Windsor as the communications officer of ambulance dispatch with the Ministry of Health.
Other members of the Jacobs family are also follow-
an ER nurse at Leamington District Memorial Hospital and Beth’s husband Bruce is the deputy chief of EssexWindsor EMS.
John Sr. also continues to have an impact on local emergency services, as he holds a position on the Police Services Board. He is also a member of the Union Water Board, ErieQuest and
“Leamington is very near and dear to me,” said Jacobs, a graduate of Leamington District Secondary School .
ing in John Sr.’s health care footsteps. His daughter Beth is the manager of the Ministry of Health’s ambulance community centre in Windsor while John Jr. is the district chief of emergency services for Essex County. His eldest grandchild, Morgan, recently graduated from the nursing program at McMaster University.
Mitchell is attending Concordia University in Montreal while Jacklyn is a high school student and Jace a Grade 4 student in Kingsville. The in-laws also happen to play significant roles in local health care, as John Jr.’s wife Tracey is
the Committee of Property Standards.
“Leamington is very near and dear to me,” said Jacobs, a graduate of Leamington District Secondary School and post-secondary courses he also took while continuing to live in his home town. “It’s one of the reasons I got into council. Having worked with government groups before, I decided to run in the last election. I just didn’t expect to run against 16 other individuals.”
Jacobs noted that all councillors are able to work together harmoniously and that each member has different experience that they
can bring to the table. He chuckled, however, at the fact that his side of the council table — Hilda MacDonald, himself and Larry Verbeke — is often referred to as the ‘noisy’ or ‘boisterous’ side.
“In the worst case scenario, we agree to disagree and then all go out for a coffee after the meeting is done,” Jacobs said, smiling.
The former paramedic announced that he does plan to run for council again in the autumn of 2014, but also pointed out that he has no intentions of running for mayor or deputy mayor.
“I don’t know how he does it,” Jacobs said of Leamington mayor John Paterson. “It’s a responsibility that takes up a lot of time, yet he always manages to answer e-mails and return phone calls.”
Councillor John Jacobs uses a jointer to prepare a piece of wood for his next woodworking project. Jacobs built an ex- tension on the garage of his Leamington home to house his woodworking shop.
(SUN Photo)
I can see clearly now…
Life’s been a little too good to me lately. There’s nothing like seeing yourself in a picture and truly seeing yourself in all your glory. Wow, what happened? Apparently I’ve been using my cancer diagnosis last year as a reason to eat, drink and be merry without exercising… Not sure what I was thinking, but I do know I’ve got to steer this ship back about 30 pounds!
Production
I’m VERY happy to report that I am cancer-free and feeling great and now it’s time to start taking better care of my body. It was like an epiphany of sorts when the oncologist said my tests were clear and there was a very small chance for reoccurrence. It was great news, of course, but now it was like I had to start “trying” again. Time to start working out on a regular basis and no more having wine on a Tuesday night “just because”.
Now I have to somehow tame my new acquired credo of doing what I want, when I want because life is too short. Life is too short, but now I feel a lot more confident that I’ll be needing those RRSPs, so I had better keep contributing.
Like everything else in life, we have to find a balance, a reasonable amount of pleasure with just the right amount of work and planning ahead. I’ve always been the practical one. I can’t stand any balance on my credit card and I like to pay my bills as soon as they arrive. I’m estatic that my car is officially paid for and plan to drive it for a few more years. Now, if only the house were paid for… I’m sure we’ve all heard the adage, “today is the first day of the rest of your life”, well, I believe that. I’ve always appreciated people, places and certain possessions, but I feel they all became a lot clearer to me. I’m going to take more time for myself and my family, and just enjoy whatever comes my way and take time to notice everything and everyone who does cross my path.
Hazy, lazy days of summertime
Houses to rent or buy, tuition to pay, jobs to search for, and well, of course, ‘The Bachelorette’, are all parts of the conversation around our house at the moment. “School’s out for summer” and for a couple, perhaps for life!
I questioned several people, asking them about some of their favourite summer holiday memories. The following recollections are a few of the answers I received:
“Stewart’s drive-in across from The Cliff, where we cruised in our Mercury Monterey convertible to see who was there.”
Lifestyles...
The last day of school is always celebrated and even though it doesn’t affect us directly anymore, there is an energy in the air, as a reflection to all those who have a little less structure for a couple of months.
“Driving right to the tip of the Point and checking out the campgrounds on the way, to see what party might be happening.”
“Smuggling someone in the trunk of the car to the drive-in movie on Erie North.”
“Living in my bathing suit all day”
“Coming home from school, and playing school.”
“Breakfast at the Point on Sunday.”
Meanwhile, our children are planning their imminent futures, which will, possibly, no longer include a long summer break. It is sad to see that phase of their lives come to an end. With today’s economy, at least one, if not two, summer jobs are necessary to cover student loans, car expenses, cell phone bills and more. Reality strikes. As a mother, I am proud that they are progressively taking on these responsibilities, but at the same time, I miss the excitement and downtime that the summer holidays used to bring.
I remember very clearly the feeling on the last day of school, as I emptied the mess from my desk and carried it all home. Old lunches, dirty gym clothes and my report card, were a few of the aforementioned items. Usually there was at least one friend, or a whole group by my side, eager to dive into my parents’ warm pool when we arrived home.
I possibly had the opportunity to sleep in the very first day of the holidays; however, the excitement and the anticipation of the ‘free’ day ahead usually had me up in good time. I could perhaps watch the TV! How I loved watching Gidget and beach movies with Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello! I dreamed of beach parties and in later years attended many, including a few ‘smelting’ ones. The sound of the water... torches... pails spilling over with the shiny silver fish...
“Water-skiing.”
“Lifeguarding at the outdoor Leamington pool on Erie N.”
“The Heinz picnic at Seacliffe Park, which ended in a fantastic fireworks display.”
“Paddling down the creek to the mouth of the lake.”
“Sleeping out in the tent and being raided by the boys across the creek.”
“ Hours of tennis a day, at Leamington high school.”
“Field tomato sandwiches.”
“The sight of spilled tomatoes at every corner in Leamington.”
“Summer job as a tour guide at Heinz.”
“Working in the fields, picking tomatoes, hoeing tobacco or detasseling corn.”
Memories... memories.
As you create your own memory list, hopefully summer will be filled to the brim with everything you dream of, as you continue to create more great ‘mind photos’ that will last a lifetime.
“Sandcastles and laying in the sun. Tanning till the day is done. Ice cream, bike rides, late night bashes. Surfing, swimming, hearing waves crashing. Shopping, being driven round town. Music loud, the top is down. Days by the pool in the warm breeze. This summer went by with so much ease.” –Unknown
Hillman Marsh
SHEILA McBRAYNE McThoughts
SHANNON MATHESON
Letter - Relay For Life – A Very Special Thank You
The Canadian Cancer Society’s signature fundraising Relay For Life events were outstanding successes again this year both in the Southshore of Essex County and in Windsor/LaSalle. The Windsor/LaSalle event enjoyed a marvellously balmy night from dusk to dawn on June 15th. The Southshore event on June 1st started off under heavy skies with sudden downpours of rain and though the evening stayed damp and cold, nothing could dampen the spirits of the survivors and participants.
We would like to thank both the Windsor/LaSalle and Southshore Relay For Life Steering Committees for their commitment and hard work over the past year to bring these events to fruition. We want to ensure that these dedicated volunteers who give so generously & willingly of their time receive the thanks and
recognition for their wonderful contribution to this event. We would also like to thank the towns and staff of both the Harrow Arena and LaSalle’s Vollmer Centre, our hosts for these events, for all their help and gracious hospitality.
The real heroes of this event were the cancer survivors and caregivers who attended the ‘Survivor Victory Laps’ and proved that cancer research is making a difference; that amazing progress is being made; and that more people are surviving cancer than ever before. Over 1500 local participants and team members supported these survivors by raising pledges for the fight against cancer. The teams were inspiring their ideas creative and our sincere thanks go out to each and every member.
Finally, we would like to express our greatest and most heart-
felt thanks to the people of Windsor and Essex County. From the many teams who participated, to the survivors who inspired us, to the volunteers who ran the show, to our local cancer doctors & researchers, to our sponsors and donors, this was a spectacular effort. Even with our challenging local economy, local volunteers were able to raise $287,000 to date towards the fight against cancer and helping people living with cancer.
The support and generosity of the people of Windsor and Essex County is second to none. Thank you to everyone involved in making Relay For Life 2012 such a success. Through your efforts, we are together creating a country where no one fears cancer.
Judy Lund - Manager, Essex County Unit
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO FIRST FRIDAY IN LEAMINGTON
to organize a monthly activity(s) and/or event(s) that are focused on building and improving upon awareness, networking and information sharing for youth, adults, minority and mainstream communities in education, employment, self-employment, health and wellness, the arts and other areas of interest.First Fridays in Toronto was founded in 1994. It is one of over 30 First Fridays that occur on the first Friday of every month throughout North America in cities like Montreal, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York to name a few.
Enjoy the specials that Leamington businesses have to offer on First Fridays from May through September.
LDMH unveils new sign, new logo
By Bryan Jessop
Getting the word out recently became significantly easier for Leamington District Memorial Hospital.
Bryan Meyer, chairperson of the LDMH board of directors, officially unveiled the hospital’s new electric sign while at the same time launching its new logo. The dualpurpose event was conducted in one convenient gesture, as the two items are now displayed prominently on the same 20’-tall sign along the hospital’s north side, Talbot St. West parking lot.
The revealing of the new sign and logo is one of the premiere steps in LDMH’s revised strategic direction and community engagement campaign. Board members will soon visit municipalities, service clubs and businesses within the hospital’s catchment area to further implement the campaign.
The facility’s strategic direction is based on promoting hospital services, events, programs and initiatives, a plan being conducted in part through the new electric sign and in part through hiring new communication coordinator Bill Baker, who began working for the LDMH and LDMH Foundation on June 11. Further steps to implement the campaign will be taken when the hospital launches a new, hightech website, to be designed by Jaz Marketing — the same company that designed the new logo.
The LDMH board of directors whittled down several proposed designs for the new logo and presented four to be voted on by staff members. The sun positioned at the top-centre of the logo represents the Sun Parlour region and symbolizes the growth and bounty it produces. The south shore (southern Essex County) design immediately below it is symbolic of the hospital’s catchment area, which includes Leamington, Kingsville, Harrow, Essex, Amherstburg and Wheatley. The display of ‘LDMH’ in large letters denotes the hospital’s ability to serve a geographic region beyond the Leamington area. The blue and orange colours are intended to represent a bright, professional and calming atmosphere.
The idea for the sign was presented by the LDMH Foundation and Leave a Legacy Committee to the LDMH board of directors about a year ago. The sign and its design were approved in November.
The sign’s total cost came out to a sum of about $55,000, an amount that was immediately reduced to $49,000 thanks to a donation by its creators, Dow Signs.
“It’s a very generous contribution,” said LDMH Foundation director Ross Barnwell. “They’ve (Dow Signs) worked in this community a lot — they’re dedicated to helping us get the message out.”
Remaining funds for the sign came from the Foundation’s coffers, in part supported through contributions made to the Leave a Legacy Committee.
“In the long term, it (the sign) could very well pay for itself,” said Leave a Legacy Committee chairperson Dave Dillon. “It can get the messages out cheaper than printing out and mailing 2,000 flyers and letters.”
Dillon explained that contributions to Leave a Legacy — which is responsible for looking after ongoing donations to the hospital — can often reach six figures in a year, and in some cases, seven figures.
“In some cases, one contribution could pay for it,” he noted.
The electric sign is covered by a five-year warranty and features one of the highest resolutions available in its size.
(Continued on page 7)
Clinical Manager of Critical Care Steve Dale and Leave a Legacy Committee chairperson Dave Dillon perform the ribbon-cutting of the new logo and electronic sign at Leamington District Memorial Hospital.
Keeping local migrant workers safe on their bikes
By Sheila McBrayne
Essex County - Leamington and Kingsville in particular – has a lot of bike traffic. In addition to local cycling enthusiasts, there are approximately 4,000 migrant workers in the community who rely on bicycles for transportation. Visibility on the road is a real issue that can be resolved if the bike is made visible by applying reflective tape to it.
Lorraine Gibson of the Migrant Workers Community Program was instrumental in getting $1,000 in funding from the Essex County Federation of Agriculture for the purchase of reflective tape. Donations were also received from Windsor Factory Supply and Leamington United Church. The tape is purchased in bulk rolls and cut into strips. Four rolls will do 1,600 bikes. Gibson also has some volunteers involved in cutting the high-quality tape into appropriate sizes for application to bikes.
There are a couple of programs underway locally to apply the highest quality reflective tape to local migrant workers’ bikes. Highest quality means the most reflective and the most durable tape available; it’s the same red and white striped tape that you see on transport trucks and police cruisers.
Staff Sergeant Mike Beatty of the Leamington OPP has also been involved and is coordinating having the tape carried in police cruisers so that officers can apply the tape en route when they see a cyclist without reflective devices. The OPP and the MWCP have developed cards in Spanish, which can be handed to a migrant worker to explain that he is not in trouble, but this is being done for his own safety.
Sergeants Tracy Blanchard and Silvano Bertoni of the Kingsville OPP have arranged a day when they will go out to some greenhouses and begin to apply tape on site as well.
“It’s a wonderful community effort that should greatly enhance the safety of the migrant worker cyclists and make them more visible on the road,” said Sue Omstead of the Share the Road (advocating for safer roads for cycling).
New sign, logo
(Continued from page 6)
Barnwell is able to change and add messages and videos to the screen through a remote Wi-Fi signal that he sends from his office on the ground floor of the hospital. Text and video screens, once edited, take an average of five minutes to be sent to the sign, making it easy for Barnwell to display emergency messages to the public in case of outbreaks.
“We’re actually launching the beginning of a new strategic journey at Leamington District Memorial Hospital,” said LDMH board of directors chairperson Bryan Meyer
The sign became functional about four weeks ago, following the installation of accompanying software and a short test phase. In addition to messages pertaining directly to the hospital, it is also being used to promote other community organizations, events and programs.
“This is really a memorable day,” Chatham-KentEssex MPP Rick Nicholls said during the sign and new logo’s unveiling. “It’s about the meaning behind the logo... it’s forward thinking. It embraces the community the hospital serves and with video, it shows that it’s about real people. This is very positive for the community.”
Leamington District Memorial Hospital board of directors chairperson Bryan Meyer, along with fellow board members, committee members and LDMH staff, unveils the hospital’s new logo and electronic sign during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday, June 26. (SUN Photos)
Lorraine Gibson applies reflective tape to a migrant worker’s bike in downtown Leamington. (SUN Photo)
Summer BBQ and jam sessions for youth
Voices of Youth in Community (VOYC) is hosting a free barbecue for all youth ages 15-25 who would like to participate in their Summer Jam Series. They can bring their instruments to the park and are welcome to jam, sing, perform, join in with other youth, and play some beach volleyball or Frisbee.
This IS NOT A CONCERT. There is no stage or electrical setup. It is an opportunity for youth to meet new people, hang out and have some fun.
Dates and locations for the Summer Jam Series and barbecues are:
• July 17 from 12 noon-3:00 p.m. at Seacliff Park in Leamington.
• July 18 from 12 noon-3:00 p.m. at Lakeside Park in Kingsville.
• July 19 from 12 noon-3:00 p.m. at McAffee St. Park in Harrow.
For more information call 519-733-8983 ext. 22 or find VOYC on Facebook.
Sarah Hiltz brings unique style to Two Creeks
Living up to a long tradition of folk music, Sarah Hiltz has been praised for her ability to tell a story through song, bridging the gap between folk and jazz.
Sarah, who will appear at the Two Creeks Concert Series July 8, has been described as something of a combination of Billie Holliday, Feist and Joni Mitchell – but with a style uniquely her own.
She’ll be performing with her group –Mark Lodewegen on keyboards, Andy Tattersall on guitar, Justin McMath on bass and Nick Sennema on drums – and you can expect a blend of originals and covers that runs the gamut from the Beatles to Aretha Franklin to John Mayer to Norah Jones.
For more on Sarah Hiltz, visit her website at sarahhiltz.com
The Two Creeks concerts, held Sundays at 6:30 p.m. on the Weil Stage in the natural amphitheatre at the conservation area just north of Wheatley on Kent Road 1, continue throughout the summer.
Admission is free, but the hat is passed to defray the expense of bringing in performers and to continue the volunteer work necessary to maintain the site. Refreshments are available from Wheatley Scouting.
Bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the atmosphere. In case of inclement weather, the concerts are held under the pavilion. You can also bring used household batteries for recycling.
For more information, visit www.twocreeks.ca, e-mail info@twocreeks.ca or call 519-324-6988.
Three Diamond Jubilee medalists
By Bryan Jessop
Canada Day weekend celebrations included a once-in-alifetime feature at the Leamington Mennonite Home this year. Held a day early (Saturday, June 30), the commemoration of Canada’s 145th birthday included the presentation of three Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medals at the Garrison Ave. facility. The medals, being awarded to 60,000 Canadian citizens over the one-year course of the nation’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, were bestowed upon Leamington residents Walter Brown, Elsa Koop and Linda Tiessen. The medals were presented by Chatham-Kent Essex MP Dave Van Kesteren.
In addition to a full-capacity crowd of residents, staff, family and visitors, the event was also attended by local dignitaries Leamington deputy mayor Charlie Wright and Chatham-Kent Essex MPP Rick Nicholls. All three local politicians offered words of welcome to those in attendance following the playing of O’ Canada.
Koop was the first to be presented with her medal. Koop, who attended the celebrations donning the blue, red and white colours of the Union Jack in honour of the queen’s Diamond Jubilee, offered thanks of her own to those whom she credited with her award.
“I have so many people to thank,” she said. “I want to say very sincerely that I want to salute Joanne Fillimore. We did get some very nice things done. I also want to salute my boys. There were so many things I couldn’t have done without them.”
Fillimore founded the South Essex Community Council, where Koop was instrumental in starting the foot care clinic for seniors. Koop’s husband Peter was in need of such services at the time and eventually, one of her two sons also put the program to use at the age of 62.
Koop was born in Foxwarren, Manitoba and has lived just southwest of Wheatley for the past 50 years. She is well known for having donated the deposit for the Kopegaron Woods Conservation Area, where she has also planted several trees. Koop’s involvement with the SECC began when she was approached by Fr. Duchene, a well-known supporter of the program. With her husband’s discomfort reaching the point where she had to tie his shoes, she suggested the foot care clinic to the SECC and was able to make it possible by obtaining of government grant.
Koop also played a pivotal role in starting English as a Second Language (ESL) courses and is still available to the SECC when they require her advice or input.
“I really do appreciate it,” Koop said of being awarded the Diamond Jubilee medal. “It’s not (given) for talking too much, they just tell you to shut up.”
With her home situated close to Wheatley Harbour, Koop also hosted numerous picnics for seniors, noting that they enjoyed watching the boats arrive at the docks. Her sons Ron and
Gary assisted with the set-up and take-down process of each picnic.
Koop, the eldest of eight children, has been active in assisting local seniors despite battling the painful effects of sciatica, a condition where spinal nerve roots are subjected to compression or other forms of irritation.
“I look at it this way,” she explained. “God gave us dominion to look after the world, so we should enjoy looking after the world.”
Brown was also flattered and honoured to be chosen as a Jubilee Medal recipient.
“There are so many people who work for this community free of charge,” he said. “To be chosen for this medal among the hundreds of them is very humbling.”
Brown has been director of the Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers since 1989 and has grown tomatoes for Heinz for the past 46 years. He has also been the chairperson for the negotiations board of tomato farmers with Heinz and other companies since 1994, representing every tomato grower in the province.
“I was flabbergasted,” Brown said of winning the Diamond Jubilee medal. “I feel undeserving — there are so many people who contribute in so many ways, to be chosen is a huge honour.”
In addition to offering his services locally, Brown is involved with a worldwide organization that represents 35 countries that grow and process tomatoes. As a member, Brown has travelled to regions including Brazil, Portugal, Italy, Australia, California and most recently, China.
During these meetings, he and representatives of other countries discuss various tomato growing strategies and methods, ideas, inventories and production statistics.
Strangely enough, he is not the only Walter Brown to receive the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal. Another Walter Brown has earned the same accolades by leading a project to purchase and install a new outdoor lighting system at Parliament Square in New Brunswick.
Tiessen has been administrator at Leamington Mennonite Home since 1998, during which time she has helped raise tens of thousands of dollars through galas and other fundraisers.
“Through community helping community, we can achieve the visions we have today by helping to understand each other, so that in turn, the needs of others can be met,” Tiessen said. “I dedicate this medal to this community of care (Leamington Mennonite Home). That’s what community is all about.”
Prior to taking on the administrator’s role at the LMH, Tiessen spent 14 years at UMEI — the first nine years as a teacher and the following five as principal. For the seven years prior to joining the staff at the high school, she was executive director at the South Essex Community Council. As such, Tiessen has served Leamington in the services of health care, education and social services.
“For me, it’s part of the community, which is all about serving others. That’s why I have chosen the career path that I have.”
Tiessen volunteers her own time to assist with community functions at the Leamington Mennonite Home, a service with which her family shares a deep history. While some members of her family serve on the facility’s golf tournament committee, her mother is a member of the auxiliary committee.
Tiessen explained that fellow members of the LMH have been quick to respond when it comes to assistance required to keep its programs and projects functioning.
“There is no enthusiasm without response, and there has been great response in this community,” she noted.
Walter Brown, Elsa Koop and Linda Tiessen display their Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medals, as presented by Chatham-Kent Essex MP Dave Van Kesteren (far right).
14 Ontario Scholars at UMEI
UMEI 2012 Graduates
The 2012 graduates at UMEI Christian High School are, front row left to right: Brenna Epp, Tarisai Ngangura, Emma Konrad. Middle: Middle: Karlee Driedger, Melissa Froese, Jaina Wiebe, Tessa Klassen, Megan Warkentin. Back: Molly Gillanders, Elyse Epp, Caitlin Foulon, Matthew Thiessen, Nickolas Klassen, Michael Zuiderveen, Shane Klassen, Chris Warkentin, Katrina Wagner, Sarah Parsons, Olivia Dean. (Photo by Noreen Wiebe of Milestone Imagery)
From a graduating class of 19 students, 14 Grade 12 students from UMEI Christian High School achieved Ontario Scholarship status this year. This means that they reached an average of 80% or better in their top six grade 12 courses. The Ontario Scholar recipients are as follows: Olivia Dean, 95%, daughter of Lloyd and Helen Dean, Kingsville; Karlee Driedger, 88.8%, daughter of Dennis and Karen Driedger, Wheatley; Brenna Epp, 95%, daughter of Dave and Charlene Epp, Leamington; Elyse Epp, 96.8%, daughter of Joan Epp, Leamington; Molly Gillanders, 83.6%, daughter of Larry and Carmelita Gillanders, Leamington; Shane Klassen, 87.5%, son of Henry and Alison Klassen, Wheatley; Tessa Klassen, 81.6%, daughter of Keith and Brenda Klassen, Leamington; Emma Konrad, 80.5%, daughter of Bruno and Dianne Konrad, Leamington; Tarisai Ngangura, 92%, daughter of Munyama and Fungai Ngangura Toronto; Sarah Parsons, 86.3%, daughter of Brent Parsons and Donna Parsons, Harrow; Katrina Wagner, 80.6%, daughter of Harold and Janice Wagner, Maidstone; Megan Warkentin, 86.5%, daughter of John and Jacqui Warkentin, St. Joachim; Jaina Wiebe, 81%, daughter of Jake and Tina Wiebe, Leamington; Michael Zuiderveen, 85.3%, son of Gerald and Betsabe Zuiderveen, Essex.
The honour of top standing went to Elyse Epp who was recipient of the Governor General’s Award, a calculation of all Grade 11 and 12 marks. Elyse’s average for 16 courses was 95.5%. Elyse also had the distinction of giving the valedictorian address on behalf of the Class of 2012!
Congratulations graduates!
THE LEAMINGTON KIWANIS CLUB IS A SERVICE ORGANIZATION. Meetings are held twice a month, the first and third Thursday. If you are a non-profit organization and would like a meeting place on weekdays, or if you are interested in learning more about our organization, or to have us involved in your community, please contact Leo at 519 325-0953.
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
Camp. There are still tee times available. Cost is $130 per golfer. Contact Shelley at 519-7352424 or shelley.hoffman@ontario.ca.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 4 - Blood Donors Needed Blood Donor Clinic at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, 249 Sherk St. 1:00 - 7:00 p.m. Call 1-888-236-6283 or www.blood.ca for information or to book an appointment. Walkins welcome.
THURSDAY, JULY 12 & SATURDAY JULY 14Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre is holding auditions for “Yankee Notions” by Canadian playwright Anne Chislett. Thurs. July 12 from 7-9 p.m. and Sat. July 14 from 2-4 p.m. at St. John’s Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Four female and 7 male actors wanted, ages 20-60. Prepare a 2-minute monologue. Production date: early November. For info call 519-326-0586.
THURSDAY, JULY 19 - Voices of Youth in Community (VOYC) is hosting a free Summer Jam Series & BBQ for youth ages 15-25 on Thurs. July 19, 12:00 - 3:00 p.m., at McAffee St. Park in Harrow. For info call 519-733-8983 ext. 22. Find us on Facebook.
JULY 8 - 22 - each night except Sat., 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. Gospel Tent @ 389 Erie St. S. Leamington. All are welcome. Speakers - Bert Snippe & Bruce Cottrill. For more info call 519-324-0340. No collections.
SATURDAY, JULY 14 -OVA Beach Volleyball Tour at Seacliff Park Beach www.velocityvollebyball.ca.
MONDAY, JULY 9 - Ladies, you are invited to a dinner evening at 6:30 pm. at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens. Tickets $16. Guest speaker is Cyndi Harper-Deiter. Theme “Underwear & Underwire”. Special feature by Hippy Chick Café. Soloist: Sylvia Beveridge. Reserve by July 6 – Sharon at 519-326-0421 or Darlene at 519325-0226. This evening is presented by Leamington Christian Women’s After 5, affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries.
MONDAY, JULY 9 - Kingsville Blood Donor Clinic, 1:30 - 7:30 p.m. Migration Hall, 170 Main Street East. Call 1 888 2 DONATE (1 888 236-6283). For information and to book your appointment. Walk-ins welcome. Please donate.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 11 - Essex County OPP will be hosting a fundraiser golf tournament at Kingsville Golf & Country Club. Proceeds to benefit OPPs 4 Charity - Essex County OPP Cop
JULY 16 - 20 - Praise Vacation Bible School, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon, for children grades 2-6 (as of September 2012) at Meadow Brook Fellowship, 219 Talbot St. East, Leamington. Free. Register at 519-326-3605 or online @ www.meadowbrookfellowship.com.
JULY 16 - 20 - SKY Vacation Bible School will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 311 Sherk St., from 9 a.m.-12 noon each day. This is a free event for the children in our community in grades JK to Grade 5. Call 519-398-9741 to register – pre-registration is required.
TUESDAY, JULY 17 - Voices of Youth in Community (VOYC) is hosting a free Summer Jam Series & BBQ for youth ages 15-25, 12:00 - 3:00 p.m., at Seacliff Park in Leamington. For info call 519-733-8983 ext. 22. Find us on Facebook.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 - Were you laid off on or after January 1, 2005? Are you unemployed? Wednesday, July 18, from 2:00-3:00 p.m., New Canadians Centre of Excellence Inc. Employment Services (#7 – 24 Oak St. E.) invites you to an information session about Second Career. Find out what you need to qualify for the program, and retrain in a new career. For more information and to register, call Andrea at 519-326-6224.
THURSDAY, JULY 19 - THURSDAY, AUGUST 16 - FREE 5-Week Prenatal Class on Thursdays in Leamington from July 19 to August 16. Have you recently become pregnant? The WindsorEssex County Health Unit will be providing free prenatal classes in Leamington. These free classes are taught by a Public Health Nurse. Call 519-326-5716 ext. 2100 for time, location, and to register.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 - Community Living Essex County 22nd Annual Charity Golf Classic at Fox Glen Golf Club in McGregor with an 11:00 a.m. shotgun start. Contact 519-7766483, ext 246.
MONDAY, JULY 23 - The Kidney Foundation’s will present the 12th Annual HUB International Golf Classic, at Essex Golf & Country Club. 18 holes, lunch, registration prize and dinner. Lots of competitive prizes. Info at www.kidney.ca/ontariogolf or call 519-9779211 ext. 23.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 - Voices of Youth in Community (VOYC) is hosting a free Summer Jam Series & BBQ for youth ages 15-25, 12:00 - 3:00 p.m., at Lakeside Park in Kingsville. For info call 519-733-8983 ext. 22. Find us on Facebook.
Longtime foster parents awarded Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal
By Bryan Jessop
It seems only fitting that one source of inspiration and leadership be honoured by paying tribute to another.
A Leamington couple, Roland and Bernice Desnoyers, are among the 60,000 Canadians experiencing the once-in-a-lifetime honour of receiving the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. Together, the Desnoyers have been foster parents to troubled youths since 1988, a service Bernice has taken a role in since 1960.
Diamond Jubilee Medal ceremonies have been taking place across Canada since Feb. 6 of this year, when the inaugural set of presentations was made to 60 recipients at Ottawa’s Rideau Hall. Other such ceremonies will take place across Canada until Feb. 6 of next year, along with other Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
For the Desnoyers, the event took place along with more than 600 other Order of Canada and Order of Ontario recipients at Toronto’s Roy Thomson Hall on Monday, June 18, hosted by the Honourable David Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. Iconic CBC news anchor Peter Mansbridge served as the event’s master of ceremonies.
The local couple did not know they were due to receive the accolades until about two weeks prior, when they received an invitation in the mail.
“We were very surprised,” said Bernice. “It was amazing to be chosen for something that will happen only once in a lifetime. We certainly were excited. We’re so appreciative that people thought enough of us to do this — it’s amazing to know how much people appreciate what you do. There have been some hard times over the years.”
Surprisingly, the trip to Toronto to receive their medals almost didn’t happen. Although accommodations were paid for by the provincial government for the awards ceremony attended by Roland and Bernice to receive Order of Ontario medals — they were nominated for their same services as foster parents — no such monetary support was offered by any level of government to Diamond Jubilee Medal nominees. The problem was in part alleviated by the Wheatley Ladies Auxiliary, who offered to pay for a portion of the expenses incurred during the trip to and from Roy Thomson Hall.
The couple attended the Diamond Jubilee Medal ceremony with guests Brenda Molnar and Jack Sulston, the two Wheatltey residents who nominated them for the Order of Ontario in 2007. Sulston, a retired superintendent of Wheatley Provincial Park, and Molnar have known Roland — a former Wheatleyite originally hailing from Cornwall — for several years.
By the time Roland and Bernice were each awarded the Order of Ontario, they had already served as foster parents for 64 teens. The two married in 1988 and began taking in exclusively boys while living in Kingsville. The following year, they moved to Leamington. Thus far, they have provided a home for 73 boys (up to two at a time), nearly 100 including those who lived with them during short-term, emergency cases.
Brenda became a foster parent in 1960 after testing determined that she would not be able to have children of her own. Although she adopted a child of her own from Kingsville and eventually gave birth to two more, she never lost her devotion to troubled teens. Youths she has opened her doors to came from communities such as Leamington, Windsor, Chatham, London and her original hometown of St. Thomas.
The Desnoyers enjoyed both the Order of Ontario and Diamond Jubilee Medal ceremonies a great deal, although they describe the latter as a more informal, relaxed event.
“It was amazing, except for the wait to get in,” Bernice said of the Diamond Jubilee Meal ceremony.
After receiving their medals from Canadian astronaut
Dr. Roberta Bodnar — one of 23 presenters — the Desnoyers enjoyed a series of musical performances from a set of artists that included Gordon Lightfoot, an Order of Canada recipient.
Those eligible for the
Diamond Jubilee Medal include Canadian citizens who were alive as of Feb. 6, 2012 and who “have made a significant contribution to a particular province, territory, region or community within Canada, or an achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada...” Roland and Bernice, who each received their own Order of Ontario and Diamond Jubilee Medals, were the only foster parents in Ontario to be selected for either honour
Upon their return home, the couple has since received many words of congratulations from their former foster children. They continue to remain in contact with several of them, including one in Windsor who has sent them wedding invitations and another from Calgary who calls on a regular basis.
The Leamington Triathlon Committee would like to extend thanks to all who helped to make the 2012 Leamington Triathlon Weekend such a great success. Many of the over 500 competitors came from outside Windsor and Essex County to participate in the event and Leamington has left a very good impression with those visitors!
To our corporate sponsors a big thank you for without your support we would not be able to host this event.
In particular, in keeping our athletes safe we would like to thank the residents and businesses along the race routes for their patience while the event was underway. With a record number of athletes competing, we would also like to thank the Municipality of Leamington, the Kinsmen Receation Center and the many volunteers who performed the duties, large and small, required to make an event like this run smoothly.
GOLD SPONSORS
MGS Horticulture
Bernice (left) and Roland Desnoyers were awarded Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medals from Dr. Roberta Bodnar, right, the first female Canadian astronaut to travel into space. (Photo Submitted)
Freddy’s Cocktail Lounge and Restaurant is a family affair
Twenty four years ago, Freddy and Maria Makhlouf along with their five children put everything on the line and purchased what was then a small variety store. Thanks to their old-world values and an unrivaled work ethic, the business has expanded into the popular restaurant and ice cream parlour it is today.
Everyone was involved from the beginning, so it was only a matter of time before the younger generation would put their stamp on the business. Eight years ago, sons Michael and Robert started taking on a leadership role in the family business. They started with a major expansion and transformed the little store on the corner into a 210-seat restaurant. “We were very proud to take a major role in what our parents started. Our goal has always been to offer a quality product at an
affordable price and to make our customers feel at home,” says Robert.
To expand their customer base and to enhance the relaxed atmosphere, Freddy’s stepped it up a notch four years ago, this time with the addition of a 30-ft. cocktail lounge offering casual fare and, depending on the day, a selection of sporting events on one of several television screens. Other favourites include Freddy’s fried chicken, liver and onions, succulent ribs, and made-to-order pizzas. Freddy's Greek salad, a variety of wraps and New York steak dinners are also high in demand. And, staying true to their Lebanese roots, the family offers hummus, tabouli, baba ganoush, falafel and kafta wraps, fattoush salad and za’atar.
In addition, patrons can relax and enjoy the sunset over Lake Erie along with their meals on the remodeled 62-seat outdoor patio.
Over the years the restaurant has earned a reputation for fresh Lake Erie yellow perch, which is lightly breaded and pan fried to perfection in garlic butter.
In 2011 Freddy’s was voted #1 Perch in Ontario. The business may have changed over the years to keep up with the times, but some things will never change at Freddy's. After twenty four years of dedication to quality and service, the Makhlouf family is rewarded when customers return time and again to share good food, top-notch service and the friendly atmosphere.
At Freddy’s you’re only a stranger once!
Maria and Freddy Makhlouf
The Makhlouf Family
Local beach volleyball tournament provides high level action
On Saturday, June 23 Seacliff Park beach in Leamington was host to the first twos tournament of the season. The tournament series is a joint effort between Velocity Volleyball and the Municipality of Leamington. This tournament attracted participants from Essex and Kent counties for prizes and a great day of beach volleyball activity
The finals saw the local team of Josh Tiessen (Kingsville) and Jason Wall (Ruthven) meeting newly-signed University of Windsor middle 6’6” Gabe Burlacu (Windsor) and partner Avery Speller (Chatham). Pool play throughout the day was dominated by Burlacu/ Speller as they prepare for other OVA (Ontario Volleyball Association) events. Speller commented favourably on the facilities at Seacliff Park beach. “We have played in several other beach tournaments throughout Ontario and this has to be one of the best set-ups out there,” he said. “Playing right on the water like this is amazing and this is a great warmup tournament for us as we work towards Provincials in Toronto this summer.”
The finals saw a 3-set match decided by dominant blocking at the net by Burlacu that challenged Tiessen/Wall to be creative with their offensive opportunities.
“We have been working on our game the entire day,” said Tiessen. “This is the first time that Jason and I have played together and we knew we would have to work hard to be competitive in the finals with a big block in front of us.”
The finals match results were: Set 1 – 21/8 Burlacu/Speller; Set 2 – 21/18 Tiessen/Wall; Set 3 – 15/5 Burlacu/Speller.
Beach Volleyball is making a serious surge throughout the country as both male and female teams recently earned the right to represent Canada at this year’s Summer Olympics by winning the Continental Cup Games qualifying tournament on the same day (June 23) in Mazatlan, Mexico. This was a Davis Cup type match-up where countries put their best teams against each other.
“That is an unbelievable accomplishment,” said Jim Konrad, Club Director of Velocity Volleyball. “To have Canadian teams Binstock/Reader, Redmann/Saxton (male teams Canada 1, Canada 2) along with Bansley/Maloney, Lessard/Martin (female Canada 1, Canada 2) pursue such a dream and accomplish it is amazing and great for the sport of volleyball in this country!”
“It was a pleasure to work with most of these athletes last year at the National Training Centre and on July 7th we will find out exactly who will represent Canada in London,” added Konrad, referring to a playoff match that needs to take place between both male and female teams. Only one spot for each will be going to the Olympics with the Canadian trials set for July 7th at Ashbridges Bay in Toronto.
Seacliff beach will also be holding an upcoming OVA Beach Tour event on July 14 as well as ongoing tournaments on July 28 and August 17-19 for the annual Tomato Festival with the non OVA tournaments offering 2/4/6’s divisions. More information and registration is available at www. velocityvolleyball.ca and www.ontariovolleyball.org
Burlacu/Speller successfully took on Tiessen/Wall in the Men’s Final in beach volleyball competition at Seacliff Park on June 23. From left to right Jim Konrad of Velocity Volleyball,
Jason Wall, Josh Tiessen, Avery Speller and Gabe Burlacu.
Local swimmer sets records
Local swimmer Cody Lavoie recently returned from a big meet in Michigan and represented Canada proudly.
Competing in the 100 backstroke (gold), 200 backstroke (gold), 50 freestyle (silver), 200 freestyle (silver), 400 freestyle (gold) and the 1500 freestyle (gold), the Wheatley swimmer swam to many personal bests and a few extra-special times.
Cody swam to all-time Windsor Essex Swim Team records in the 400 freestyle (4:18) as well as the 1500 freestyle (17:13). His split time in the 1500 freestyle was also good enough to set the 800 freestyle record (9:07). In the 200 freestyle, Cody missed the all-time team record by less than one second, swimming a personal best
of 2:01.76.
Swimming up to 20 hours a week and weight training 4 hours a week has helped get Cody in the best possible shape. He competed at the Ontario Provincial Swim Championships on Canada Day weekend, and adding
to an exciting summer is the Canadian Jr. National Championships in Calgary as well as being selected to the Ontario Summer Games in Toronto.
Cody plans to have www. codylavoie.com updated in the next few days to recog-
nize those that have helped out financially. “Without the community, my family would be really stressing. I don’t know if I’d be able to really go after my dreams,” he said. “Thanks to everybody for your support!”
If the chair gets up when you do, it’s summer.
Talbot Trail senior golf news
By Bob McLean
On a beautiful, warm, sunny June 26th, 81 seniors anxiously challenged the Talbot Trail golf course. The only person to shoot below 40 was Paul R. Brown who shot a masterful 39.
In the 55-69y division, there were some very impressive shooters. Jim Pearson and Bob Shaw shot terrifically, scoring 41s. They were closely followed by the excellent 42s shot by Pat Hill and Rick Thompson. Bob McLean achieved the sole 43. Four players who merited solid 44s were: Brian Brown, Larry Haggitt, Bill Rutgers and Ron Will. Jim Omstead played steady golf to achieve a commendable 45. Satisfying 46s were achieved by Garnet Fox and Dave Overholt. Notable 47s were shot by Bill Ward and Dave Clark. Other golfers in this division to earn 50 or less shots were: Bill Derbyshire, Kevin Jordan, Richard Humber, Mac Hyatt, Ray LaPierre and Mike Thibodeau.
In the 70-79 grouping, Vic Reynaert placed second to Paul by firing an impressive 41. Congratulations are extended to Vic for winning the Senior Men’s Championship this year. Mike Wright continued his superb play scoring a 42. Tom Hyatt played consistent golf to earn a very praiseworthy 43. One shot behind Tom were Neil Adamson and Joe Vertel who scored noteworthy 44s. Four golfers who played steady golf to merit solid 46s were: Carl Robinson, Homer Vandervecht, Don Willan, and Bob Scott. Eugene Abbruzzese and Armand Decaluwe travelled the 9 holes in commendable 48s. Breaking the 50 mark, Wayne Cowan and Andy Orsini played very well. Other fine scores of 53 or less were shot by: Gerald Rivait, Rene Paquin, Dean Wigle, Hal Wigle, Tom Sasso, Walter Balsam, Mike Fritsch, Don Moore and Clarence Ware.
REC ROUND-UP REC ROUND-UP
Peewee: Sun. July 8, 1:00 pm
Peewee: Sun. July 8, 3:00 pm
Mosquito: Tues. July 10, 6:15 pm
Mosquito: Thur. July 12, 6:15 pm
Rookie: Tues. July 10, 6:30 pm
Rookie: Thur. July 12, 6:30 pm
Bantam: Thur. July 12, 6:30 pm
Wednesday, July 11
OPP Charity Golf Tournament at Kingsville Golf & Country Club
Contact Shelley 519-735-2424 shelley.hoffman@ontario.ca
Saturday, July 14
OVA Beach Volleyball Tour at Seacliff Park Beach www.velocityvollebyball.ca
Wednesday, July 18
Community Living Essex County 22nd Annual Charity Golf Classic at Fox Glen Golf Club, 11 am shotgun start. 519-776-6483 ext. 246
Saturday, July 21
UMEI Watermelon Golf Tournament at Erie Shores Golf Club. To register contact UMEI 519.326.7448
Tim Horton sponsors FREE SWIMS At the Kinsmen Recreation Complex Mon. July 9 • 3 pm – 5pm Sat. July 21 • 1pm – 3pm Sun. Aug. 12 • 1pm – 3pm Thurs. Aug. 23 • 3 pm – 5pm
LACE UP LEAMINGTON for the CBC Live Right Now campaign! LEAMINGTON is INVITING EVERYONE TO WALK the trails, parks and waterfront promenade. Each Tuesday and Friday early morning from 6:30-7:15 a.m., come join Councillor Hilda MacDonald as she leads the walkers! Meet at the Complex parking lot, straight out from the front doors.
Register now for the Summer Session
In the 80-86y division, Bill Galloway fired another brilliant round of golf as he scored a 45. A mere one shot back was “Down the Middle Knox” who achieved an outstanding 46. Dave la Bonte and Gerry Becigneul produced solid 47s. Bob MacWilliam played consistent golf to achieve a very commendable 52. Four golfers tied with 57s: Harvey Wiltshire, Gerald Wilkinson, Bill Westrop and Murray Cascadden. Orville Ellwood and Steve Haas also played well.
• Red Cross Swim Lessons for all levels: daily for a 2-week period, or once a week throughout the summer with morning, evening or weekend options.
• Complex Summer Day Camp is being offered all summer long, weekdays throughout July and August. Kids ages 4-7 and 8-12 will have loads of fun swimming, skating, doing crafts and playing games galore. Plus there’s a different theme each week to keep the kids excited and coming back for more. Register early for Summer Day Camp!
Over 35 Fitness & AquaFitness classes per week during the summer. Our certified, dynamic fitness instructors have a very strong following to their classes. Come see for yourself how invigorated and energized you become taking part in a fitness class with others!
“Sunset & Quintet” concert by Windsor Symphony Orchestra: Friday, July 6 from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. on the NEW performance platform at Seacliff Park. Bring lawn blankets to sit on the side of the hill looking down toward the beach! (Lawn chairs can be used at the top of the hill.)
Calling All Seniors! Come to the Complex any weekday morning and see just how many young retirees and seniors are taking part in Complex programs. This active group of seniors are working out, socializing, playing badminton and pickleball, attending a fitness class, doing lane swims or aquafitness, and relaxing in the soothing effects of the saltwater pool. They’re competitive and also having lots of fun! You can spend a ½ hour in intense training or you can spend 2 or 3 hours going from one area to the next. Weight room orientations are available to guide you around the weight and cardio equipment. The Complex has so many diverse programs!
Check out the Complex Summer Activity Guide at www.leamington.ca/recreation and register in advance. We’ve got programs for ages 4 months and up, children, teens, adults and seniors. However, courses have to be cancelled if registration numbers do not meet the minimum required to run the course. So don’t be disappointed – register early!
The super seniors, 87y+, were led by the long hitting Dick Mackenzie who tallied a solid 51. Linus Bachmeier continued his superb play to merit second place with his impressive 52. With his nifty 54, Al Stockwell earned third place. Gerald Wilkinson had a fine game achieving a 57. Other commendable games were played by: Bill Hutchinson, Jim Ascott, and Ray Allen.
Two long time golfing buddies were standing beside a river. One looks to the other and said, “Look at those idiots fishing in the rain.”
Most golfers prepare for disaster. A good golfer prepares for success. – Bob Toski
Husband: In a somewhat saddened voice said, “Dear, I saw my doctor today, and he told me I can’t play golf.”
Wife: “Oh, he’s played golf with you too, has he?”
Cody Lavoie practicing entry dives/starts during warm-ups at a recent swim meet in Michigan. (Photo submitted)
Russell Derbyshire struck out eight batters in three innings as the Mosquito Lakers dominated Walker Homesite Minors 12 to 1.
Mosquito Lakers one hit Tecumseh minors
Russell Derbyshire, Justin Wiebe and Eric Domingues combined to hold the Tecumseh Minor Rangers to just one hit, while striking out 13, as the Leamington Mosquito Lakers handled the visitors by a score of 12 to 1 last Tuesday evening, June 26.
Derbyshire pitched the first three innings, giving up the lone hit and striking out eight batters. Wiebe threw the next two innings striking out four Tecumseh batters, while Dominguez tossed the final frame striking out one.
Southpoint Men’s Softball action
The Dawgz put the Car Barn in their kennels in game one winning 23 to 3. The Barn nearly induced an upset in game two as they attempted a comeback in the 7th inning down only 2 runs. The Dawgz added 4 insurance markers in the top of the 7th and the Car Barn was unsuccessful at mounting a comeback in the bottom of the inning as the game finished 14 to 9… The Farmers got Bashered 27 to 4 and 15 to 3… Don Johnston Electric staved off the Monkeys in game one 6 to 5 and then was beaten 15 to 8 in Game 2. Birthday boy Caleb Beaupre made an appearance in game 2 for DJE as he rushed back from the
Price is Right to get mocked by his teammates. There was some good fielding by both teams in this game as centre field was busy and some highlight reel plays were made. Let’s not forget Jordan O’Sullivan getting doubled out to end a potential rally inning for the Monkeys… Guardian Pharmacy prescribed some muscle relaxers for Colt 45s as Guardian took both games… Rivalry game of the week happened as Desert Storm would not allow the Buds to infiltrate their game and took both 15 to 7 and 14 to 8. Desert Storm owner, CEO and first baseman Mike Taouil noted that he hopes their bats stay hot
for the second half of the season as they continue their climb up the leader board… Grinders maintain their 2 point lead atop the standings by beating the Pirates 5 to 1 and 16 to 6. Grinders’ pitcher Jonathon Cucumber was interviewed after their game and he noted that neither team deserved to win game 1 but their bats came alive for game 2.
Jose’s Southpoint Men’s Softball League Week 9 Around the league; Dawgz put the Car Barn in their kennels for the night by winning both games 23 to 3 and 22 to 5;
Billy Friesen led the Lakers’ charge going three for three at the plate, scoring three runs and pounding an inside the park home run with a blast to deep centre field.
Eric Willan, Derbyshire and Jonathan Fehr had a pair of hits each, while Michael Wiebe and Adam Neufeld had single tallies. Fehr, M. Wiebe and Neufeld stroked doubles.
The Mosquito Lakers are sponsored by Domino’s Pizza.
The Farmers got Bashered 27 to 4 and 15 to 3; Don Johnston Electric staved off the Monkeys in game one 6 to 5 and then was beaten 15 to 8 in Game 2. Birthday boy Caleb Beaupre made an appearance in game 2 for DJE as he rushed back from the Price is Right to get mocked by his teammates. There was some good fielding by both teams in this game as center field was busy and some highlight reel plays were made. Let’s not forget Jordon O’Sullivan getting doubled out to end a potential rally inning for the Monkeys; Guardian Pharmacy prescribed some muscle relaxers for Colt 45s as Guardian took both games; Rivalry game of the week happened as Desert Storm would not allow the Buds to infiltrate their game and took both 15 to 7 and 14 to 8. Desert Storm Owner, CEO and First baseman Mike Taouil noted that he hopes their bats stay hot for the second half of the season as they continue their climb up the leader board; Grinders maintain their 2 point lead atop the standings by beating the Pirates 5 to 1 and 16 to 6. Grinders’ pitcher Jonathon Cucumber was interviewed after their game and he noted that neither team deserved to win game 1 but their bats came alive for game 2.
(Photo by Claudia Burgess)
Jose’s Southpoint Men’s Softball League (JSMSL) STANDINGS
Ladies ball hockey June 25
Ladies Ball Hockey played with a few alterations to the game. Due to graduation ceremonies, attendance was compromised so the ladies played 4 on 4 with a reduced rink size.
The first game was played between the Car Barn and Anthony-Keats Marine. Throughout the game, Laura Epp and Jessica Blain scored for Anthony-Keats Marine, assisted by Nicole Jackson and Brooke Kaiser. Goals for the Car Barn were from Angele Stammler, Rachel Blair, Kristi KK Kennedy and Brenda Lambe. Assists were earned by Lambe, Derb, and Nancy Policella.
The second game was played by Johnston Electric and the Journal. Throughout the game, Sue Ricci scored for Johnston Electric, assisted by Christine Loopsy Hodgson. Molly Jakob scored for the Journal, making it a 1-1 final.
Special thanks to Satchel Brouwer for taking notes for these two games. Remember ladies, next games will be a road trip to Tilbury.
The Churches of Leamington and District Welcome You
Mount Zion Full TabernacleGospel
6 Mill Street, Leamington 519-252-0031 Sunday Worship 7:30 p.m.
(German), 10:45 a.m. (English)
Leamington Evangelical Mennonite Church 108 Mersea Rd 3, Leamington 519-322-9915
Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Leamington United Mennonite Church 78 Oak Street East, Leamington 519-326-2727
Sunday Worship 9:45 a.m. Summer Worship Services 9:30 a.m. (German), 10:15 a.m. (English) Meadow Brook Fellowship 219 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-326-3605 Sunday Worship Services 9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. North Leamington United Mennonite Church 625 Mersea Rd 6, Leamington 519-326-7928 Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m. South Point Community Church 55A Talbot St. W., Leamington 519-322-1858
Sunday Gatherings 10 a.m.
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Iglesia La Buena Semilla
269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-733-0342
Sunday Worship 6:30 p.m.
Supporters of amateur athletics honoured
Mrs. Pep (Jean Pepper) and Ken Lowes were honoured at the annual Captain’s Day of Golf Adventure on Sat. June 30 at Talbot Trail Golf Course.
Over 100 people attended the 9-hole tournament. A trophy engraved with their names acknowledges Mrs. Pep and Mr. Lowes for being an “active supporter of amateur athletics.” They were each presented with a scrapbook signed by all who attended the day as well.
Mrs. Pep was recognized for her years of community service and volunteer work, which included mentoring youth and running the canteen at the arena for many years.
Ken Lowes received the award in recognition of his role behind the scenes as a longtime supporter of sports and is a loyal community booster.
Past recipients of the prestigious award are Fred Epplett (2010) and R.J. Platsko (2011).
Erie Shores ladies play low putts
The game was RCGA – Low Putts for the Erie Shores 18 hole ladies league on Tuesday, June 26. The winners were: first flight Nancy Flynn with 24, second flight Carolyn Kelly with 25, third flight Gloria Thiessen and Essie Gulliver with 25.
Chip ins: Carolyn Kelly on #6 and #16, Mary Hrynewich #10, Gail Brown #10, Tym Branagan #18, Nancy Flynn #14.
Car
Barn
Leamington
Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-325-9654 Sunday Worship Services 3 p.m.
United Pentecostal Church
312 Erie St. St., Leamington 519-326-7056
Sunday Worship Services 11 a.m.
PRESBYTERIAN
Knox Presbyterian Church 58 Erie St. S., Leamington 519-326-4541
Sunday Worship Services 11 a.m.
ROMAN CATHOLIC
St. Michael’s Parish 29 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-326-2643
Sunday Masses: 7:30 a.m. (English) 10:30 am (English/Children’s Liturgy) 10:30 am (OLBS, Wheatley, English) 3 pm (Spanish), 7 pm (Youth)
St. Joseph’s Church 310 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-2643
Saturday Mass: 5 p.m. (English)
Sunday Masses: 9 am (Italian, English)
Noon (Portuguese, English)
St. Anthony’s Parish (Maronite Rite)
280 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-322-2282
Sunday Masses 9:30 & 11 a.m. (Lebanese, English)
SALVATION ARMY
The Salvation Army Citadel
88 Setterington Street Leamington 519-326-4901
Worship 10:30 a.m.
By Emma Hannigan
In the first game on June 18 in ladies ball hockey, the Car Barn and Anthony-Keats Marine had a fast-paced game filled with effort and teamwork, whick ended in a 3-1 victory for the Car Barn. The first goal of the game was a breakaway shot from Margot Gillepie, assisted by Nancy Policella for the Car Barn. The next goal was scored for Anthony-Keats by Lauren Mather from Dee Smith, and was then followed by two goals from the Car Barn by Lindsey Turner, assisted by Debbie Coulter, Kristi Kennedy, and Gillespie.
The second game was played between the Journal and Johnston Electric, resulting in a 2-1 win for Johnston Electric. The first goal was scored by Christine Hodgson from Amy Bell for Johnston Electric. The Journal did tie it up with a goal from Christine Hopper, assisted by Shannon Matheson and Cindy Osadzuk, but Johnston Electric was able to get one more goal in the second period by Bell from Patty Woelk to get the “W” for the game.
Mrs. Pep and Ken Lowes were honoured for their support of amateur athletics on Sat. June 30 at Talbot Trail Golf Course.
Bits and pieces…
Diamond Sparkled
JOHN WEESE
Weese’s Pieces...
Last week, I shared my disappointment with the deteriorating sound of the legendary Gordon Lightfoot after taking in his concert in Sarnia a couple of weeks ago. Gordon is 73 years old and has suffered with his health for the past number of years. Imagine my relief and joy when some friends and I entered the John Labatt Centre (soon to be called Budweiser Gardens… yuk) and discovered that Neil Diamond, age 71, sounds as incredible as he has for the past 50 years. At a hundred and fifty one bucks a ticket, you really want the show to be a dandy, and it truly was.
Neil Diamond knocked out just about every hit in his massive catalogue (sans “Kentucky Women” and “Song Sung Blue”) with special attention given to his signature hit “Sweet Caroline”; In fact he sang it four times in a row with the audience providing most of the chorus and “bump, bump, bump.” It was so good, so good, so good.
Serendipity and Tommy Boy
The great thing about living in a tourist town like Goderich is that you just never know who’ll you could bump into – old acquaintances, celebrities or some other interesting folks who are spending some vacation time near the lake.
This past weekend my lady friend and I were enjoying dinner on the outside patio of a lake bank restaurant and waiting for the explosion of fireworks near the shore. Somehow, we engaged in conversation with the lady sitting at the table next to us. We discovered that she was in the film business in Toronto, as was her husband. She told us that she was currently working on the new Total Recall movie and her husband was working as a video assistant on another big film in the works.
I asked her husband about some of his favourite movies that he has worked on. His immediately answered Tommy Boy, one of my favourite movies too.
Made in 1995, Tommy Boy starred the late Chris Farley, David Spade, Brian Dennehy, Dan Akroyd and Bo Derek. It was combination road film, fish out of water, romantic comedy wrapped up into a really funny flick.
It was fascinating to hear my new-found filmmaking friend talk about his experiences of spending time with the actors during the shoot,
how they filmed it around the Toronto area, and what he thought of certain people (he absolutely loved Farley, but thought Spade was a bit of a wiener).
I also got a new appreciation about how many people are involved in the making of a movie and how long the days can be when shooting. Still, it sounded like great fun and something I’d like to try sometime. Perhaps I could be the key grip person or something. As I understand it, these folks fetch coffee for the actors and the director. I’m pretty sure I could handle that.
Please Say A Prayer For My Mother
Many have or are currently experiencing the same as my brother and I. It’s so sad to see our mom fade away, mentally and physically. At age 76 (in a couple of weeks) she is in the hospital’s chronic care ward, waiting for a spot at the nursing home in Chatham.
I attempt to spend time with her at least once a week and talk to her husband more frequently. The experience is seldom encouraging. It’s just a matter of time before we lose mom all together.
Her health began to go south just over two years ago following her third brain surgery to remove tumors. The final surgery was quite invasive, according the to surgeon, and she hasn’t recovered to any of our expectations and hopes.
To know my mom is to absolutely love her. We were all counting on a better fate for her. We simply don’t know where life leads us sometimes or why such things happen to great people. Seems it’s not for us to know the answer to such things.
Free firewood for the taking
Students from Cardinal Carter came to Getty’s Beach to gather trees and debris from the lake and shore that washed in during the spring.
There is a large pile of wood in the beach area that is free to anyone who’s interested. The wood needs to be cut (with a chainsaw) into smaller, more manageable pieces and taken away.
Getty’s Beach area resident Elsa Koop would like to see the wood go to good use and clean up the area. If anyone is interested, contact Koop at 519-825-7955.
Teal hair turns into ‘green’ for Cancer Centre
By Sheila McBrayne
When nine-yearold Oryan Fulmer of Wheatley learned that his grandmother, Deanna Rose of Comber, had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, he decided to to do something about it.
His first reaction was to dye his hair a bright teal green/blue, which is the official colour of Ovarian Cancer Canada, and to attract attention. Ovarian cancer is the most serious of all gynecological cancers. Over 2,600 Canadian women are diagnosed every year; and every year 1,750 women succumb to this disease. Symptoms are varied, vague and easily missed. There is no screening test to detect it. But when found early – and treated – ovarian cancer survival rate is 90%.
Oryan decided to collect money for the Windsor and Essex County Cancer Centre Foundation where his grandmother received treatment. First he asked teachers and friends at Wheatley Area Public School where he recently graduated from Grade 4. Then he took his pledge sheet to his Matier Street neighbourhood and went door-to-door to collect pledges. Oryan is the son of Robyn and Shawn Fulmer.
Oryan’s fundraising efforts started on June 23 after his soccer wrap-up day, and within a week’s time he had collected $250 by Friday morning, June 29. He spent the first day of summer holidays hitting the streets to raise more money
Oryan intends to collect pledges until Sunday, July 8 and then will make an official donation to the Cancer Centre. The money is earmarked for the Cancer Centre’s Assistance Fund, which helps with expenses such as gas, parking and medication for patients who need financial assistance.
“My grandma has ovarian cancer, so I wanted to help others,” said Oryan. If you would like to donate to Oryan’s cause, please contact the Fulmers at 519-825-8029.
Three-year-old Andrea Austin shields her face from a sprinkling of water while being held by her mother Francia Austin at the Seacliff Park Splash Pad Thursday, June 28. Several Leamington-area residents made a trip to the splash pad that
as
jumped to 39ºC (102ºF) with humidity.
Lois Hartford - volunteering at LDMH
By Bryan Jessop
For Lois Hartford, the hardest part of her duties at Leamington District Memorial Hospital is no longer doing them.
After 60 years of volunteering at the hospital, Hartford has decided to officially retire from her philanthropic services — sort of. Finding it difficult to back away from the facility permanently, she continues to attend LDMH auxiliary meetings from time to time.
“The volunteer program there is unbelievable,” she said. “It’s always been a labour of love for me. I gave my car
to my granddaughter in Kingsville to force myself to stay home more.”
Hartford, who was born and raised in Detroit, developed an interest in nursing at the age of five. She decided to pursue the career after receiving words of motivation from an aunt that also lived in Michigan, who happened to hold a career in nursing.
“Before she died of TB (tuberculosis), she said ‘whatever you want to do, do it before it’s too late’,” Hartford recalled.
Hartford took the advice seriously, enrolling in nursing courses in Chicago. She became a licensed practical nurse while living in the US and married a member of the American naval air force. Although he survived the war as a tail gunner despite his plane being shot down, he died of emphysema after returning home.
Lois moved to Leamington after marrying John G. Hartford and took more courses en route to becoming a registered nursing assistant. She didn’t want to become a registered nurse practitioner, she explained, because she wanted to avoid “pushing pills.”
Hartford worked and volunteered at LDMH simultaneously, spending many nights at the hospital after her shift ended during the day. She was fortunate enough to have a babysitter who sympathized with her for the long hours she worked at the hospital
“She didn’t even charge me,” Hartford said of the woman who looked after her three sons. “When I worked through the night, she would clean the house and have breakfast on the table for the boys.”
Never satisfied with only knowing a few aspects of the job, Hartford enrolled in training programs at various hospitals, including Leamington, the Met hospitals in Windsor and Detroit and Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.
“Leamington is a great hospital for training,” said Hartford. “The hospitals in Windsor and Detroit are eager to bring in staff from this area because they know how welltrained they are.”
She explained that doctors at LDMH took her under their wings, teaching her everything she knew about working in the OR before moving on to intensive care.
“I learned a lot about people over the years,” she said. “I also learned not to worry so much — it’s why I’ve lived longer. I was too busy to get sick, anyway. I’ve been lucky that way.”
While volunteering, Hartford drove several patients to Windsor hospitals and started numerous health committees and groups at Leamington. Having grown tired of listening to fellow group members discuss how to cut costs in order to meet operating budgets, she suggested ways to raise money as an alternative.
“I was never afraid to speak up,” Hartford explained. “I’ve always said if there’s something bothering you, talk about it. Communication is so important there.”
Because of government legislation, Hartford was forced to retire at the age of 65. Although she complied, she was vocal about her displeasure with the law, which has since changed to allow workers to retire when they see fit.
“I cried when I had to retire,” she recalled.
Among the most rewarding elements of working and volunteering at LDMH for Hartford were duties at the intensive care unit. While not technically on her floor, several patients requested her service and in some cases, refused to be treated by any other nurse.
“The tributes and compliments from patients were very flattering,” Hartford noted. “I’ve always been very willing and eager to talk, it doesn’t matter who you are.”
Hartford’s willingness to speak her mind became more evident than ever when government officials made deep funding cuts to mental health services. These cuts and facility closures hit close to home for her, as one of her sons had previously been diagnosed with schizophrenia after traveling around the world. She proceeded to take a trip to Toronto to voice her angst with Ministry of Health representatives. Her son now attends a group home where Hartford reports “he is as happy as a lark.”
“Mental illnesses are nothing to be ashamed of. It’s like any other illness — nobody chooses to have it,” she said. “I’ve always told people if they think someone in their family has a mental illness, call Mental Health — that’s what they’re there for.”
Hartford noted that she had witnessed several changes at LDMH over the past six decades, all for the better.
“It’s so modernized now,” she stated. “Even the food is better. It used to be shipped to the hospital in boxes and everything tasted like cardboard. It’s much better now that there is a cafeteria and kitchen.”
Hartford explained that dramatic growth and improvements at Leamington hospital have made it difficult to avoid making return visits to the facility.
“It’s grown by leaps and bounds,” she said. “The staff is much more focused now. They used to show up wearing their street clothes — it was hard to tell staff from patients.”
The 85-year-old Hartford describes herself as LDMH’s biggest critic, having spent a great deal of time and energy pushing the hospital to make improvements and add services.
“A lot of people there probably think I’m a real pain in the neck,” she said with a laugh. “I’m very critical when I go to the hospital. I’ve never had trouble speaking my mind.”
Hartford noted that the growth and improvements made at LDMH are reflective of Leamington itself. She explained that when she moved to the town in the 1940s, there was very little to do.
“We had nothing here back then,” she said. “It was a much smaller town. It’s grown so much over the years.”
The two of Hartford’s sons who still live in Michigan have tried on multiple occasions to convince her to move back to the US, but she refuses to budge.
“I have no desire to leave Leamington,” she explained. “I love it here.”
Lois Hartford prunes a handful of dead leaves and flowers from one of her geraniums. Coming from a family with several florists, she explained she feels compelled to keep her flowers looking their best.
(SUN Photo)
Landscaping in the shade
In the back yard...
One of the most frustrating home landscaping designs is getting grass to grow under trees. I have spent many weekend hours at garden centres looking for a shade-loving grass seed and have come to the conclusion there is no such thing. Grass is not a shade-loving plant. Go for a walk in the woods, there is moss and ferns – no grass. Grass is a plant of sundrenched, wide-open areas. Taking this plant that has evolved from these conditions and planting it in full shade is almost impossible. Bluegrass has been cultured for shaded areas, but only to a very small degree.
Tree roots and grass do not get along well. Grass roots require a lot of moisture and cannot compete with the larger service tree roots, especially during long, hot, dry periods. These conditions put both the tree and grass under stress and soon or later one will become victim to environmental stress such as caterpillars, gypsy moths and even air pollution.
Before designing your wood lawn garden, study the location of the shaded area from morning sun to afternoon sun. My secret is to take a garden hose and spread it out, making the design of the shaded area, and then let Mother Nature tell you where to start. Once you have found the area, do not try to dig up the soil as this could damage service roots of the tree. In most cases you will have to add additional soil to the new planting area, but not too extreme as this could also smother the tree roots.
Once you have added the proper amount of topsoil, use a good landscape fibre cloth. This will allow water to get to the tree roots. Sheets of black plastic are not recommended because they will keep moisture away from the tree roots and cause water to collect and damage the roots of the new groundcover you are planning to plant.
The two most popular and well-known are periwinkle or English ivy. These plants make excellent groundcover and are also very easy to propagate rooted cuttings for future landscaping projects. However, there are many types of ground cover to use, from variegated leaves to flowering
to shrubs. I have found that perennial planting works the best, but groundcover beds require work and discipline. You must keep the area weed free until the groundcover has established itself. Mulching works the best for weed control or a weed ’n feed fertilizer.
When planting your groundcover, at 12” on centre you will need 1 plant per square foot, 8” on centre use 3 plants per square foot, and 6” on centre 4 plants per square foot. If possible, always try to purchase 2 year old plants. They are a little more money but have a better root system and longer runners and will fill in much quicker.
Groundcover is a very personal preference. Some areas look better by just using mulch or stone and other plantings need colour to better show off features of the house or other brickwork. Many of my friends who do not have groundcover in their yard cannot wait to get some. Those that have had groundcover for several years cannot wait to get rid of them.
To maintain a healthy groundcover, it is very important to remove leaves in the fall and weeds in the spring and summer.
In choosing the best ground cover: 1. Always select a plant that is adapted to the site; 2. Consider how the plant will look when mature; 3. Try to choose the plant that requires the least maintenance; 4. Choose the color, height and texture to compliment the surrounding area.
English ivy provides groundcover under this tree where the grass won’t grow properly.
This type of planting will not tolerate as much foot traffic as your lawn and will require routine fertilizer, watering, weeding and pruning to develop into an attractive planting. e-mail inthebackyard74@yahoo.ca
Herbert first in progs golf with +12
Tuesday, June 26 provided bright sunshine. The skies were so clear that you could see forever. Back to that in a moment. The players are getting much better and the handicap system is getting players to where they should be. Of course, there is always one who flaunts the system and crushes everyone with some excellent play. Congratulations to our newest sandbagger, Mike Herbert, who secured first place with a +12. Mike started the day with a handicap of 21, only needing 15 measly points. Mike nearly gets a hole in one on 16, and nearly drives the green on 9. Gord Anderson proclaimed that he hit his third shot before getting to Mike’s drive. Actually, that’s not all that unusual.
Second place finishers were tied with a +6. This goes to Ken Cobby and Mel Davey, each winnning $12. Mike Herbert collected $20 for his efforts. In the skins department, each person received $12 for skin. Mike Herbert and Ken Cobby nabbed 2 apiece with singles going to Bill Gherasim and Ed Schachowskoy. In the team game, Team D were the champs with a total of +13. Team members include Ken Segedin, Jim Sudds, Tom Miehl, Roger Cote, Bill Stackpoole, Ejaz Qureshi, Henry Hildebrandt, Neil Reimer, Gene Bouliane, Ed Schachowskoy, Kevin Shaften, Ward
Hutchins and Gord Anderson. It was a close competition between all the teams. Team A finished at –7, Team B at –24, and Team C with –1.
Let’s go back to the beginning with being able to see clearly. Bill Gherasim hit the wrong ball, hence the nickname “Wrongball Bill”. It was sitting in the middle of the fairway. Seriously? Was it something you didn’t
see, like the name of the ball you hit, or a logo? Bill may have had one too many soda pops. To think that Bill worked with law enforcement and was taught keen observation. Did you miss that class?
As a public service, Jim Sudds is desperately searching for a putter that will help him sink 3 foot putts. If you have any leads, please contact Jim at Erie Shores.
PRESENTS
THE�TRAGICALLY�HIP
Thursday, July 5
Saturday, August 11
TONY�ORLANDO
Saturday, August 18
CALIFORNIA�DREAMIN’
DICK�FOX’S GOLDEN�BOYS STARRING Frankie Avalon Fabian Bobby Rydell Saturday, July 14
AMANDA�MARSHALL
Friday, July 20
HEART Saturday, July 28
HAPPY�TOGETHER�TOUR
The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie, Gary Pucke� & The Union Gap, The Grass Roots, The Monkees’ lead singer Micky Dolenz and The Buckinghams Friday, August 3
DAUGHTRY Saturday, August 4
Tributes to The Beach Boys, Jan & Dean, The Mamas & the Papas, The Rascals, The Ventures, and many others� Thursday, August 23
Tickets on sale now!
RANDY�TRAVIS�
Friday, September 7
Tickets on sale July 7
RUSSELL�PETERS
Saturday, September 15
Tickets on sale now!
CELTIC�THUNDER
Sunday, September 16
THE�AUSTRALIAN� PINK�FLOYD�SHOW
Saturday, October 27
BILL PLUMB
Due to the Canada Day short deadline, the photos and story from the 2012 Leamington District Secondary School graduation
BASF Chemical Corp. ~ Chartwell’s ~ Garden Sprite Co. ~ Essex County Associated
Society
Leamington Kinsmen Club ~ Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex ~ Leamington Rotary Club
Lee Family ~ Leigh & Victoria Comartin & Family ~ Local United Food and Commercial Workers 459
Mennonite Savings & Credit Union ~ OPP Community Award ~ Partners & Staff of Collins Barrow
Rebekah Lodge ~ Rhine Danube Club ~ Rt. Hon. Sir Winston Churchill Chapter, IODE Roma Club ~ Royal Bank ~ Royal Canadian Legion Branch 324 ~ St. Michael’s Catholic Women’s League Royal Canadian Legion Branch 84, The Ladies Auxiliary Branch
Payton’s Walk raises $7,100!
Payton’s Walk for spina bifida and hydrocephalus was held on Saturday, June 30 on Detroit Line in Wheatley. This year’s event included a giant raffle table, candy floss, barbecue and the walk. After all pledges and monies were counted, the original goal of raising $3,000 was blown away with more than $7,100 raised! Pictured here is the top fundraiser Patty Siddall, left, with Payton. Payton is the 12-year-old daughter of Colleen and Mark Siddall.
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ANOTHER SUMMER ALONE? Just think how much better summer evenings on a patio would be with someone you love. MISTY RIVER INTRODUCTIONS can help you find that special person. CALL (519)658-4204, www.mistyriverintros.com.
DATING SERVICE. Long-term/shortterm relationships, free to try! 1-877-297-9883. Talk with single ladies. Call #7878 or 1-888-534-6984. Talk now! 1-866-311-9640 or #5015. Meet local single ladies. 1-877-8045381. (18+) TRUE ADVICE! True clarity! True Psychics! 1-877-342-3036 or 1-900-528-6258 or mobile #4468. (18+) $3.19/minute; www.truepsychics.ca.
SOUTHPOINT SUN
laundry room + entrance. Call between 9am - 9pm. 519-324-0185. Available Aug. 1st. jn20-tf
business
invoices,
custom
your printing needs, call Rick at The Wheatley Journal for quick and economical service. 519-825-4541. tf
Security Building Fridge & Stove Utilities included For viewing please call 519-322-1924 tf
SUTTON PLACE APARTMENTS
2 bedroom available. Fridge, stove, dishwasher, secure building with 24 hour surveillance & elevator. Call 519-326-8746 or 519-564-5772 tf
MEETINGS
T.O.P.S. - Take Off Pounds
Sensibly. Weigh in from 6 pm - 6:45 pm, meeting from 6:45 pm - 7:30 pm every Monday at Wheatley United Church. Call Cheryl at 519825-9194 or Ellen at 519326-0730 or visit website: www.TOPS.org. Everyone welcome. tf
ANTENNAS
JACK RICCI ANTENNA SPECIALIST - HDTV antenna systems, satellite dishes, aiming & accessories, specialty and non-denominational free religious programming. TBN 3ABN 7th Day, etc. on G19 satellite, burglar alarms, telephone, paging, intercom and background music systems. Sales and service. Prewire your new house. 519-326-8973, ricci@mnsi.net. ma9-jun27
Brand
Please call to find out more. Best offer.
I looked for you this morning, I looked for you last night, I looked for you everywhere,
But you were not in sight. I looked up to the night sky above, And saw your face in the stars. It was then I realized, You’re not here anymore
But you’ll always be with me….. You will always be in my heart.
Life is something all of us must borrow Returning it in time, to whence it came.
Good-bye doesn’t mean you’re gone, So long as I still love you, Your memory will live on in our hearts.
Wishing you were here with
HELP WANTED
SEEKING REGISTERED MASSAGE therapist to work in Leamington. If interested please contact 519-2419324 or email monikarmt@hotmail.com. jn27-jl4
BUSY RV DEALERSHIP looking for RV Technician. Will consider apprentice. Woodworking and plumbing skills an asset.Fax resume to 519-326-6567. au24-tf
contact the clinic
IS HIRING AZ COMPANY DRIVERS For positions based in Leamington
Work consists of running local and highway in Ontario with a day cab. Mon- Fri positions, day or night shift available. Home after every shift. Positions could turn into a warehouse shunting position. Competitive pay package with paid benefits and company match RRSP program. Also, require AZ drivers able to cross the border, still home after every shift. We require you to have:
• Current multi axle trailer experience • 2 years experience
• Passport or Fast Card for border crossing positions
Please call 855-277-4473, or fax resume to 888-277-0524 www.brsmith.com We
In light of our continued growth, our greenhouse vegetable packing company in Kingsville requires the following:
Receptionist
We are looking for a dynamic, professional and enthusiastic candidate with 1-2 years of receptionist experience with a multi-line system; and advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office programs.
Please forward your resume, stating your position of interest, no later than July 14th, 2012, by email to mcornellier@muccifarms.com.
GAETANO GRAZIANO
