Southpoint Sun March 23, 2011

Leamington’s Big Tomato turns 50!

Volunteers needed…

Leamington’s beloved landmark and moniker – the Big Tomato – planted squarely in the centre of town, is turning 50 years old this spring.

The Big Tomato information booth opened on May 8, 1961 when Heinz President Frank T. Sherk and Carol Penner toasted the opening with a glass of tomato juice, which has since become the tradition each year as the kickoff for Tomato Festival.

The Big Tomato was designed by Bob Moran and his team of engineers from Heinz and has certainly stood the test of time.

Tourists need only look for the 10-foot tomato on Talbot Street West to find the town’s Tourist Information Booth. The Big Tomato has been featured in magazines, newspapers and was even mentioned by Dave Letterman as an audience member had mentioned Leamington, Ontario – the Tomato Capital of Canada and he talked about the Tomato Capital and giant Tomato.

The Big Red Tomato tourist booth has managed for 50 years because of the volunteers and summer students who work inside the tomato each year. The tomato is actually run through the Leamington Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber President Dharmesh Patel says that volunteers are needed to operate the booth this year, which includes handing out maps, brochures and pamphlets and giving directions and recommendations to tourists.

Secondary school students are encouraged to volunteer as they can earn volunteer hours needed to graduate high school. Students can volunteer for as many hours as they can accommodate throughout the tourist season. Anyone can volunteer from students to retirees, anyone with knowledge of the area and some time to spend inside the tomato.

Patel is hopeful that the Chamber will be able to have the Big Tomato open by the first week of May to take advantage of the thousands of burders who flock to the Leamington and Point Pelee Park area during the month-long Festival of Birds celebrations.

If you can volunteer some time this year, please call the Chamber office at 519-326-2721.

March Break Art Camp

“For The Art Of It”

March Break was especially fun for the budding young artists who attended the “For The Art Of It” March Break Art Camp instructed by Katherine Burton of Art Works at the Leamington Arts Centre. Sessions were held all week in the morning with a different theme and technique each day. From charcoal drawing on Monday to watercolour, oil painting and t-shirt painting, the participants had fun all week. Pictured here working on her oil painting is Chloe Mills.

(SUN PHOTO)

More Toronto waste to be considered for landfill

By Andy Comber

Despite considerable public outcry, more Toronto waste could be heading to the regional landfill. At their meeting last Wednesday, the Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority decided to wait until their April 5 meeting to consider entering into negotiations to accept waste material from a closed Toronto landfill.

Toronto is looking to dispose of 290,000 tonnes of waste from the closed landfill, to allow the construction of an aquatic centre for the 2015 Pan American Games. The site is now located on the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus. The project involved large earthworks, including the excavating and disposing of solid waste materials that were placed at the site in the 1960s and earlier.

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The issue was deferred at the request of Windsor councillor Drew Dilkens, via a phone conference call. He is an alternate member of the authority board for Windsor Mayor Eddie Francis, who was not there.

“Obviously it’s going to be a politically charged item,” Dilkens said. The deferral would allow more time for the board members to get all the information they need to consider the project.

Board member Essex Mayor Ron McDermott already had his answer on the issue – and pointed to a big ‘NO’ written next to the item on his agenda.

“Our community and council have made it clear. We don’t want outside gar-

THIS WEEK’S MUSICAL BIRTHDAYS

In 1942, Aretha Franklin

In 1943, George Benson ('Give Me The Night')

In 1944, Diana Ross (born Diane Earle) (also of The Supremes)

In 1947, Elton John

In 1948, Steven Tyler (of Aerosmith and American Idol)

In 1949, Ric Ocasek (of The Cars)

In 1960, Nena ('99 Red Balloons')

In 1966, Jeff Healey (Canadian guitarist, singer who lost both eyes due to childhood cancer and lost his life to the desease in 2008)

In 1968, Damon Albarn (of Blur and Gorillaz)

In 1970, Mariah Carey

In 1975, Fergie (also of The Black Eyed Peas)

In 1980, Deryck 'Bizzy D' Whibley (of Sum 41)

SONGS TO HIT #1 THIS WEEK

1965, The Beatles- 'She Loves You'.

1973, The O'Jays - Love Train.'

1974, Cher - 'Dark Lady'

1979, The Bee Gees - 'Tragedy'

1980, Pink Floyd - 'Another Brick In The Wall'

1981, REO Speedwagon - 'Keep On Loving You'

1986, Heart - 'These Dreams'

1987, Club Nouveau - 'Lean On Me'

1990, Alannah Myles - 'Black Velvet'

1991, Timmy T - 'One More Try'

1992, Vanessa Williams - 'Save The Best To Last'

1996, Celine Dion - 'Because You Loved Me'

MUSIC EVENTS ON THIS WEEK'S DATES

1945, Nat King Cole led Billboard's first ever LP chart with 'A Collection Of Favourites.'

1965, Mick Jagger, Brian Jones and Bill Wyman all received electric shocks from a faulty microphone during a Denmark show. Wyman was knocked unconscious for several minutes.

1966, During a UK tour, Roy Orbison fell off a motorbike, breaking his foot. He played the remaining dates sitting on a stool

1967, Pink Floyd played three gigs in 24 hours.

1968, The 58th and final episode of The Monkees TV series aired 1971, Police arrested all members of The Allman Brothers for narcotics possession.

1972, Elvis recorded his last major hit, 'Burning Love'

1973, The BBC banned all teenybopper acts appearing on UK TV show, 'Top Of The Pops', after a riot following a David Cassidy performance

1973, A fan jumped on stage at a Lou Reed concert and bit his rear. The man was tossed but Reed finished the show

1973, John Lennon was ordered to leave the US within 60 days by immigration authorities

1976, Iggy Pop and David Bowie were involved in a drug bust at their New York hotel room

1985, Billy Joel married model Christie Brinkley on a boat beside the Statue Of Liberty

1987, Police shut down the video shoot in downtown LA for U2's 'Where The Streets Have No Name' after it brought traffic to a standstill

1991, New Kids On The Block's Donnie Wahlberg was arrested after setting fire to a hotel carpet

1991, ZZ Top kicked The Black Crowes off their tour for criticising the tour sponsor, Miller Beer.

1992, Tears For Fears officially breaks up 1994, Singer Dan Hartman ('I Can Dream About You'), former member of the Edgar Winter Group and the one who wrote "Free Ride", died of a brain tumor

1994, Bruce Springsteen won an Oscar for the song 'Streets of Philadelphia.'

2000, Elton John's 'Aida' opened on Broadway. Elton took 21 days to write the music but five years to produce the show

2000, *NSYNC set a new world record after selling a million concert tour tickets in one day 2000, Phil Collins won an Oscar for the song 'You'll Be In My Heart' from 'Tarzan.'

2007, the wife of Velvet Revolver/Stone Temple Pilots singer, Scott Weiland, was arrested for burning his belongings

bage,” he said. “The ratepayers have diligently recycled in order to extend the lifespan of their regional landfill and to have that lifespan reduced by another area’s garbage is an outrage.”

The landfill is situated on County Road 18 in the Colchester North ward of the Town of Essex. Although Essex earns revenues as the host municipality, and makes additional revenue from the outside waste, they indicated their opposition in a resolution sent to the landfill authority, Jan. 12.

The authority voted to receive, but did not debate letters of protest they received from Essex, Lakeshore and the Essex County Federation of Agriculture.

Essex Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche expressed his disappointment with the authority’s decision to even consider discussions over taking more outside refuse, given the considerable protest from residents around the region. There is only one acceptable answer when it comes to the issue of accepting outside waste, he said. “No!”

Meloche said the municipalities in the region are trying to promote their own manufacturing and industrial businesses, but are not getting a reduced rate for landfill tipping fees. Yet the authority is soliciting to take another area’s waste at a greatly reduced rate. Accepting more outside waste will also not help the region bring more tourists to visit and retirees to settle here, he said. “What a message!”

Caesar bruschetta

This is a great starter when you have your grill fired up. Weather not permitting, this flavorful tomato topping is also great scooped up with artisanal crackers or on crostini.

Makes about 6 – 12 appetizer servings, or 12 pieces.

1 lb SUNSET® Campari® tomatoes

1 small loaf rustic artisanal bread or baguette

Olive oil for brushing

Kosher salt for sprinkling

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

2 Tbsp finely diced red onion

2-3 tsp minced fresh garlic

3 Tbsp high-quality Caesar dressing

Garnish: freshly grated Parmesan cheese and small fresh basil leaves

Preheat the grill to a medium-high heat.

Dice the tomatoes into ¼″ to ½″ pieces and set in a strainer to drain off excess juice while you continue with recipe.

Cut the bread with a serrated knife. If using a “fat” bread loaf, cut six ½″ slices, then cut each piece in half crosswise, making 12 pieces. If using a baguette, cut twelve ½″ diagonal slices from the loaf. (Use any remaining bread for another purpose.)

Lightly brush both sides of bread with oil and grill on each side until lightly marked or toasted. Sprinkle bread lightly with salt. Place on a platter.

In a medium bowl, toss together the drained tomatoes, basil, onion, garlic, and Caesar dressing. Divide the tomato mixture between the grilled bread slices. Sprinkle with Parmesan and garnish with basil leaves if desired.

Chef’s Notes: If you want to make this “bread-free,” you can serve the tomato mixture in small romaine-heart leaves.

Residents protested the import of Toronto garbage to the regional landfill at the Mar. 2 meeting of Essex County council. Further protests are expected before the Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority, who are considering accepting more waste from Toronto. They meet April 5. (Andy Comber photo)

Council news from Monday, March 21

Presentation

by

Community Living

Essex County

Tony DeSantis, manager of Community Relations for Community Living Essex County, headed a delegation that addressed Leamington council Monday night on the topic of jobs for the disabled. According to DeSantis, 15.9% of the population qualifies as having an intellectual disability, making it the largest single ‘invisible’ minority. His request to municipal council was simple: advocate on behalf of people with disabilities—they make among the most loyal and dependable employees a company could have. These workers desire a meaningful opportunity to work and better themselves, but as difficult as it is for anyone to get a job in these difficult economic times, it is even more difficult for the disabled.

Adding to the presentation, Ms. J. Ciliska, the local Employment Support Contact, pointed out that there are many barriers that the disabled face, not the least of which is the demand by employers that prospective employees have a secondary school graduation diploma. Many are unaware that the community living options educational certificates that disabled students can receive are both legitimate indicators of achievement and valid evidence of training success. Community Living Essex County provides both job coaching and job shadowing in addition to advocacy for the disabled.

It was gratifying to see the receptiveness and supportiveness of our municipal council to this presentation. Hopefully, local businesses

as well as our municipal administration will look hard and long at opportunities to provide gainful employment to this deserving group.

Two Subsequent Connection Reports Authorized

When open farmland is proposed to be converted to greenhouse use, the Leamington Drainage Superintendent, Lou-Ann Barreto, recommends a “subsequent connection report” for the project. The purpose of the study is to assess whether or not the municipal drain involved has the capacity to accept increased run-off due to the change, and to re-assess the property owner for the benefit the drain affords. It is not an endorsement of the proposal, merely one prudent step along the way. This is a relatively new approach to drainage-related issues that arise from changes in land use. It has the benefit of keeping knowledge of drain capacity and assessment current, however, and appears to be an equitable approach.

At Monday’s council meeting subsequent connection reports were authorized for two proposals. One was for DiNiro Farms on the 5th concession to add another 3 acres of greenhouses whose run-off would drain into the Robert Anderson Drain, and the other was for Cervini Farms on the 9th concession who are considering greenhouses for their property and would use the Lundy Drain for their run-off.

Good News for Little Pirates

Henderson Play Structures has provided Leam-

ington with the design of a new Pirate Ship play structure to replace the one at the Marina Park that was damaged in last summer’s tornado. The new play structure will cost $56,227.60 (plus tax, installed), and will meet the Americans with Disabilities Act Standards. Henderson also submitted a bid for a rubberized safety surface for the installation that was accepted. That will cost an additional $66,108.90. In fact, the entire play area, boardwalk and trellis portion of the park will benefit from repair and upgrading with the acceptance of Signature Contractors Windsor Inc.’s low tender for demolition and re-construction at the park. The cost of the work will be $84,420.00.

specialized equipment and trained personnel are required for this task.

Safety at the Marina

Three quarters of the new docks have already been delivered and installation has begun at the marina. If you

Municipal Municipal

Correspondent Correspondent

want to go watch, however, be aware that the entire marina is fenced off as a construction zone. Town administration advises all are welcome to view the progress from the Robson Road Park and the Waterfront Promenade, but stay out of the construction area that is fenced off.

When all of this is combined with the replanting of trees and lighting repairs it is expected that the park’s recovery will cost just over a quarter of a million dollars.

Janitorial Contract for the New Town Hall

The low tender for janitorial work at the new town hall was accepted at Monday’s municipal council meeting. Kleenway’s tender of $98,563.78 for three years includes provision of additional work at a cost of $14.28 per hour and a sixtyday cancellation clause that will allow the municipality to cancel the contract if the work done is not satisfactory. The only thing not included in the contract is cleaning the high windows of the new building, since

Don’t forget Earth Hour this Saturday, March 26, 8:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Earth Hour 2011

Earth Hour started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia when 2.2 million individuals and more than 2,000 businesses turned their lights off for one hour to take a stand against climate change. Only a year later, in 2008, Earth Hour had become a global sustainability movement with more than 50 million people across 35 countries/territories participating. Global landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, CN Tower in Toronto, Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and Rome’s Colosseum all stood in darkness, as symbols of hope for a cause that grows more urgent by the hour.

In March 2009, hundreds of millions of people took part in the third Earth Hour. Over 4000 cities in 88 countries/territories officially switched off to pledge their support for the planet, making Earth Hour 2009 the world’s largest global climate change initiative.

On Saturday 27 March, Earth Hour 2010 became the biggest Earth Hour ever. A record 128 countries and territories joined the global display of climate action. Iconic buildings and landmarks from Asia Pacific to Europe and Africa to the Americas switched off. People across the world from all walks of life turned off their lights and came together in celebration and contemplation of the one thing we all have in common – our planet.

Cell phone etiquette

I was in line at the grocery store last week and the lady ahead of me was talking on her cell phone the entire time in line and while she was unloading her cart and paying for her groceries.

Isn’t it just bad manners to completely ignore the clerk? This was a grown woman who should know better. Now, I’ve made a quick call home from the grocery store to double check on the grocery list, but it’s usually a one-minute conversation (not really a conversation at all). How can you not consider this to be rude?

Earth Hour 2011 will take place on Saturday, March 26 at 8:30 p.m. (local time). This year, go beyond the hour, and after the lights go back on think about what else you can do to make a difference. Together our actions add up.

All are encouraged to hold a minute’s silence at the beginning of Earth Hour to remember all those affected by the humanitarian and environmental tragedy in Japan – the terrible earthquake and tsunami.

Earth Hour is organized by WWF (Worldwide Wildlife Fund). With almost 5 million supporters and a global network in over 100 countries/territories, it’s one of the world’s largest and most respected independent conservation organizations. WWF’s mission is to stop the degradation of the Earth’s natural environment and build a future where people live in harmony with nature.

I was in line at the Ministry of Transportation License Bureau recently and my phone rang. I took the call because it was a work call and not just idle chatter. I felt like all eyes (about seven people in line) were on me. I just felt uncomfortable having a conversation with the rest of the room listening. It was like I somehow invaded their silence in line.

I don’t quite understand the obsession, and I do mean obsession, with talking on the phone. I hate to stereotype, but young adults are the worst. Apparently they can no longer even walk down the street without talking to someone at the same time. If there is a positive note to all this at least they are learning to multi-task…

What I don’t like is the fact that they are totally oblivious to the people and activity around them. They could pass their own parents on the street and never even notice. I guess I find it hard to understand when I came from a farm and the only phone we had was a rotary-dial phone on a party line. If you know what a party line is, tell your kids because I’m sure they have no idea. While you’re at it you may need to explain party line as well. Our “ring” was one long and one short… Wow. Can you imagine? That wasn’t that long ago.

The need to stay connected has really gotten out of control. I think the best vacations are ones that do not include a phone of any kind or computers for Facebook, Twitter, email etc. Do people just spend time away (really away) anymore? Remember coming back from a week’s holidays and wondering what happened while you were gone. Odds are, you already know every happening of every day before your plane takes off… It’s kind of like the lost

tion of seeing if your

turned out…

S Soouutthhppooiinnt t S Saayyss. . ....

If you found a pot of gold, what would you spend it on?

Location: Out and about on St. Patrick’s Day

Dianna George

HUB International

“I would retire young and travel the world... and maybe bring my husband.”

Suzette Smit

HUB International

“I would pay off my debts and have fun travelling... with my husband!”

Marcie Langs

Shoeless Joe’s

“I would pay off school early since I haven’t even started yet and travel with friends and family.”

Allie Toyne

Shoeless Joe’s

“I would pay off the restaurant and Nick and I would go on a vacation.”

E-LETTERS

If you would like to send us a quick e-mail to express your opinion - good, bad or indifferent - e-mail us sun@mnsi.net

Reader comments on Leamington Transit article

I would like to comment on the recent article written by Bill Chaplin about the Leamington Transit system. First I would like to say that I totally agree with everything Bill wrote in the article. My husband and I have lived in three cities in Ontario (London, Guelph and Windsor) before moving to Leamington 18 months ago. I have also lived in Stratford, Ontario during my first two years after coming to Canada from England in 1966. In all of those cities I had to rely on the bus system to get to work most days as I do not drive and it wasn’t always convenient for my husband to drive me as he was often out of town on business. In each city it was possible to get around in a totally reasonable way (if not always completely convenient).

Even trying to compare the so-called service in Leamington to any of those cities would be a joke! There just is NO comparison, and forget about any comparisons to any town in the UK!

When I first arrived in Canada in 1966 I lived in Stratford, which at that time had a population of around 25,000 and already had a decent transit system in place with several buses and routes that covered the whole town with about a 45-minute turn around on each route. There was service from early morning to around 9 p.m. each day. Having recently come from a country that has massive public transit systems… bus, train and subways with many routes serving not only large cities and towns but also small villages on rural routes, I thought the Stratford system was antiquated, but now comparing Stratford to the Leamington public transit is impossible because it’s as if we have no system that really serves the public in this town! Stratford and Leamington have around the same population. I would suggest that Leamington Council take a trip to Stratford and find out how they manage to provide a service!

This is a community that is trying to make itself an attractive and affordable place for seniors to retire to. Many of those seniors (my husband and I included) want to be out and about and not have to totally rely on taxis or friends/relatives, etc., to transport them

around town. My husband is still able to drive, but we don’t know for how long and we cannot afford to take taxis everywhere, and I’m sure we are not the only ones! Young people wishing to get around town and get to places on time for whatever activity they are in should not have to rely on parents, etc., to always transport them.

As for the costs involved in increasing service, most transit systems do not make enormous profits, but for a town or city to be livable, public transit should be convenient for people to use it otherwise they are obviously not going to use it. The town needs to spend money to see benefits. The cost for riding the bus should also be affordable. When I tell people that in the UK seniors ride the buses free (during certain hours of the day) in many cities or at the least for a small nominal fare, they are amazed and impressed. The train services between cities are also greatly reduced for seniors (we are not just talking about a 10% discount, but much bigger than that) and they are well used.

As Bill pointed out in his article, if we can afford to plow the snow, maintain roads, traffic signals, etc., all for the convenience of driving, what do we do for the people who for various reasons cannot drive or choose not to drive? Why can’t we invest in a transit system that will work? Leamington has some lovely parks, the Marina, etc., yet unless you can drive or don’t mind walking some distances it is not convenient or possible to enjoy those amenities – not to mention the convenience of going uptown or to the Kinsmen Complex!

In conclusion, I would like to say that I was very disappointed to hear that Essex County decided not to invest in a public transit system that would connect the whole county. So again, if you can not drive and unless you have friends or relatives to take you, you have no way to enjoy the many attractions around the county let alone go shopping in another town, and you become isolated.

Andrea Pretli, Leamington

Appreciates uptown beautification project

Dear Editor,

One day as I turned the corner at Fox Street and headed towards Erie Street I was pleasantly surprised to see a flock of beautiful monarch butterflies attached to the side of one of the buildings. On a dull and dreary day it was a beautiful and uplifting sight. I wondered who was responsible for this attractive addition to our town. When I asked my son, the Mayor, if he knew, he told me that the Council had commissioned a local artist to complete the project.

I hope owners of other buildings in the uptown area will attempt a similar project to further beautify the area.

It would be great to have a restored, vibrant uptown shopping area again. Yours truly, Joyce Paterson

Rotary Exchange student caught in Japan earthquake returns home

By Sheila McBrayne

Seventeen-year-old Stephanie Krulicki was just walking into the grocery store with her host mom in Shirkawa City, Fukushima, Japan, on Friday, March 11 when her host mom’s cell phone started beeping. It was the earthquake warning application alarming them of an earthquake of more than 7.5 magnitude.

“My host mom said, ‘there’s going to be a big earth-

quake.’ I said ‘what?’ and then the earth began to shake,” said Stephanie Krulicki, of Wheatley. She had been in Japan since July on a one-year Rotary Youth Exchange program. “At first I thought it was just a little quake, but then it got worse and we could hear screaming from inside the grocery store and at a restaurant across the street… It lasted for a good five minutes,” said Stephanie who is now safely home. It was the fifth-strongest quake in the world since 1900 and the most powerful on record ever to hit Japan.

“We were lucky to be outside; it’s actually one of the safest places to be, but it was still very scary… The cars in the parking lot were rocking on two wheels and then the other two wheels… We could hear breaking glass in an abandoned building across the road,” she said.

Stephanie didn’t know that Japan was prone to earthquakes until she experienced her first quake back in October 2010. “It was a small one, but it really scared me… I got used to the smaller ones, but it’s still very freaky,” she said.

Shirkawa City is two hours from the coast and four hours north of Tokyo, so Stephanie and her host family was not directly affected by the tsunami that followed the earthquake. “The closest I could relate the feeling to would be like really bad turbulence on a plane. “I was very scared. I kept thinking about New Zealand and what happened there recently… I kept thinking what if something worse did happen and my parents couldn’t find me… The aftershocks went on all night, so we didn’t sleep… It was the fear of another earthquake that scared me most,” said Stephanie.

Later that night Stephanie and her host family saw images of the severe damage caused by the quake and tsunami. “The television stations there censored a lot of the news about the nuclear plant… I talked with my parents and they had already been in contact with the Rotary Exchange people about getting me home… I was undecided about staying, but when I learned about the nuclear plants, I was happy to be going home,” said Stephanie. She is the daughter of Frank and Sherry Krulicki, Wheatley. Frank is the Children and Family Pastor at Meadow Brook Fellowship in Leamington. The family just moved to the area from

Athabasca, Alberta, one week after Stephanie left for her exchange last July.

And so began the journey to get home... Stephanie went to a small airport where she flew to a secondary airport in Tokyo and then family friends and missionaries from Leamington, Phillip and Lidia Hamm, met her and took her to Tokyo International Airport where they waited all night and day with her for her flight on Tuesday afternoon. Stephanie left Tokyo at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 15 and arrived in Toronto on Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. (13-hour time difference).

Although Stephanie’s exchange time was cut short by four months, she calls the experience she had in Japan as “life-changing”. “It was amazing; a life-changing experience. I couldn’t have asked for anything better. The culture there is so unique… I learned new things about them and myself every day. I’m not the same person I was when I left as I am today – in a good way,” she said.

Upon arriving home, she got to see her new house in Ontario. This September, she will be starting school in Grade 12 at Leamington District Secondary School. She said school in Japan was much more strict with uniforms for all. The school day was typically 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. and tests were taken on weekends. “And they had a lot of tests!” she said. Stephanie says she’d like to go back to Japan some day, and perhaps even teach English as a second language.

Stephanie Krulicki back home wearing her Rotary Exchange blazer jacket with souvenirs from around the world.

(SUN Photo)

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

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

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS ARE NEEDED to transport people in Essex County and Chatham-Kent for dialysis treatments. Did you know that Community Support Centre now offers a specialized service in providing transportation for patients to dialysis treatments. This valuable service is provided county wide door-to-door 7 days a week. Reimbursement of mileage is at .40 cents per km driven. We are in need of volunteer drivers to provide these essential appointments. To volunteer call 519-728-1435, long distance 1-855-728-1433, or visit us at 499 Notre Dame St., Belle River.

MONDAYS TO THURSDAYS - The Teen Health Centre is currently running an after school program at Mill Street Public School from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. The program is open to grades 5 to 8. Students from any school are welcome. The program is free and provides participants with a snack after school and many different activities including field trips, crafts, homework help as well as sports and games to promote physical activity and personal wellness.

FRIDAYS, MARCH 25, APRIL 1, 8, 15 - St. Michaelʼs Catholic Womenʼs League and the Knights of Columbus are hosting Friday Fish Fries during Lent, from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. in the Church Hall, 29 Elliott St., Leamington. Adults $12, (2 fish $14), children 6-12 $6, 6 years and under free. Fresh homemade desserts weekly.

THURSDAY, MARCH 24 - Prime Rib Dinner at St. John the Evangelist Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington, 6:00 p.m. Tickets $25, available from church office: 519-326-3111 or by calling 519-3264042. Dorr prize draw included.

THURSDAY, MARCH 24 - Cribbage Tournament, 2:00 p.m. at the Leamington Half Century Centre, 160 Talbot St. E. All welcome.

FRIDAY, MARCH 25 - South Essex Community Council presents “Connexions for Success 2011″ Employment and Education Fair. Will take place from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, 249 Sherk St. Explore career and training options, get free resume advice and find out what types of employment services are in the community. Presentations will be taking place throughout the day – topics include maintaining a healthy lifestyle while unemployed; planning a successful interview; steps to financial fitness; increasing your employability while volunteering and labour market trends for employment. For more information, call 519-326-8629.

SATURDAY, MARCH 26 -The Ruthven Apple Festival Steering Committee announces the annual Miniature Golf Tournament will take place beginning at 4 p.m. at Colasantiʼs Tropical Gardens in Ruthven. There will be food, refreshments, a cash bar, a prize table and prizes for low scores. Tickets are $20, limited to 72 participants. To reserve your spot, call 519-776-6483, ext. 246, complete a registration form at Colasantiʼs Mini Golf Counter, or go online to the events calendar at www.communitylivingessex.org. All proceeds are donated to Community Living Essex County, which supports over 600 people with an intellectual disability and their families throughout Essex County.

SATURDAY, MARCH 26 - Evening of Song to benefit Leamington Area Ecumenical Refugee Fund at Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. S., Leamington, at 7:00 p.m. Entertainment by Mosaic, Dale Butler, Jon Brett and the Karen Singers, with refreshments and dessert to follow. All are welcome.

SATURDAY, MARCH 26 - Spring Divergence Dinner (German menu) at Leamington United Church, 9 John St., Leamington at 5:30 p.m. Adults $12, children $8. Proceeds for LUC sound system. Call 519-326-9461 for further info.

SUNDAY, MARCH 27 - Sunparlour Bluegrass gathering at the Comber Legion, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Last gathering of the season. No admittance fee. An afternoon of Bluegrass music with performances by groups of local bluegrass pickers.

MONDAY MARCH 28 - Friendship Dinner at Knox Presbyterian Church Hall, corner of Setterington St. and Erie St. S., Leamington. Free home cooked meal with dessert and beverage. For those in need.

TUESDAY, MARCH 29 - Free ʻMy Home, My Choiceʼ Forum - about home living options for people with disabilities. At Fogolar Furlan Club from 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Learn about supportive apartment living, the creation of a secondary suite, and the purchasing of a home! Pre-register on-line at clwindsor.org or email communitylw@gmail.com or phone 519-974-4221 ext. 207.

SATURDAY, APRIL 2 -Support group meetings for Multiple Myeloma patients and caregivers are held bimonthly on Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Hospice of Windsor & Essex County, 6038 Empress St. (off Jefferson). Windsor. These meetings are to explore and discuss the wide range of treatment options and to give Myeloma survivors and their loved ones the support and information they need to live longer, stronger lives. New members are always welcome. Following the meeting we will be having our Annual Dinner at a local restaurant. For further information, please call JoAnn Cartlidge - 519-326-1271, email jcartlidge@hotmail.com or Darlene Gerard - 519-9781540, email darlenegerard@hotmail.com.

FRIDAY, APRIL 8 - All you can eat Spaghetti Supper. 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 3 Fox St., Leamington. Adults $10; children under 10 $5. Price includes spaghetti, salad, rolls, coffee and juice. Proceeds go towards the Biker Ministry.

SATURDAY, APRIL 16 - 9:00 a.m. The Essex County Purple Martin Association will hold its next meeting at the home of Gilles and Judy Breton, 1963 Belle River Rd., North Woodslee, just before Woodland Hills Golf Course and Hwy 401. Please bring your own lawn chair. Refreshments. E-mail at martinman@hotmail.com. For more information, please call 519-776-5777.

SATURDAY, APRIL 30 - “Second Chance Treasures” fashion show at Leamington United Church, 9 John St. Leamington at 7:00 p.m. Adults $7, children $4. Proceeds for LUC sound system, ETC. Shoppe, Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul stores. Call 519-326-9461 for further info.

SATURDAY, APRIL 30 - The Arthritis self-management program, to help you take control of living with your arthritis, starts April 30 and lasts 6 weeks. Weekly 2-hour sessions, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. At Windsor Family Credit Union, 5932 Malden Rd., Lasalle. Cost: $35 textbook included. Registration required. Call 519-965-2561, 519-944-2619 or email windsoressexarthritis@live.ca.

SUNDAY, MAY 1:Chelle's Big 3-0 Hair Chop for Cancer at Vernon's Tap & Grill, Main Street, Kingsville from 11:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., a $10 pasta dinner with lots of yummy desserts, prizes, entertainment, and photo fun to benefit the Windsor & Essex County Cancer Centre Foundation's Patient Assistance Fund, hair donation to Wigs for Kids. For tickets or info call 519-551-3494 or visit www.WindsorCancerFoundation.org/Chelle.

4-H Photo Club learning lots and having fun

By Alexandra Lockley

On the 11th of March the 4-H Photography Club had their first meeting. Arielle and Amanda were guests at the meeting. We started off with the 4-H Pledge. Next we read the book “It’s A Snap!”. Then we had elections and these are the results: Chelsea is the President, Rachel is the VicePresident, Alexis, our newest member, is the secretary, Susy is the treasurer, and I am the Press Reporter and my name is Alexandra. Susy read her first report as treasurer. We divided into two groups and half went with our leader Kim and the other half went with our leader Marshall.

With Kim we learned about the elements and principals of design. We also discussed the introduction of digital cameras. With Marshall we went for a sneak peek of the dark room and it was super fun! During the time in the dark room we picked an object out of a box and made a pictogram. Then we had a yummy Nanaimo bars made for our snack; if you want the best Nanaimo bars go to Kim!

Our junior leader Leah taught us the elements and principals of art and we had to find them in magazines. Rachel showed us how to say 4-H in sign language, which was pretty cool!

We also discussed our achievement project and ideas of what to look for when buying a camera.

Our second meeting of the 4-H Photography Club was on Saturday, March 12, and started off with the 4-H pledge. We divided into two groups; the group that went with our leader Kim went for a walk around uptown Leamington, visited the Leamington Arts Centre, and took pictures of the elements and principals of design.

The group that stayed with our leader Marshall made their own photograms with items that we brought with us. We made the photograms in the dark room. We put our objects on a special paper and took a picture all in the dark and we developed the picture in chemicals under red lights that are dim. We hung them up to dry, which was really neat! We learned how to roll up film in a developing tank, which was a little bit hard for some people to do.

Alexis read her secretary report, Susy read her treasurer’s report and I read my press report from the last meeting. We had a motion to accept the reports and they passed. Then we had pizza as our snack and got to get our photograms and they looked really cool! Good job everyone!

Next meeting is Friday, April 8th at 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Kim and Marshall’s house.

TODAY IS A GOOD DAY TO MAKE THINGS SIMPLER

Hills - Nancy & Jason of Kingsville a girl on March 5, 2011.

Walllingford - Jennifer of Leamington, a girl on March 8, 2011.

Randall - Tina & Derek of Ruthven, a girl on March 8, 2011.

Hunter - Shelby & Aaron of Ruthven, a boy on March 19, 2011

The Stork Report is sponsored by

My nuclear family

In light of the unrest in many parts of the world, I love to think there equally as many or more acts of kindness. If I didn’t think this way, I would be filled with fear for my children away from home and I would not have found a letter like the one below. Enjoy and know that having faith is very comforting!

“Hello my lovely family and friends,

First I want to thank you so very much for your concern for me. I am very touched. I also wish to apologize for a generic message to you all. But it seems the best way at the moment to get my message to you.

Things here in Sendai have been rather surreal. But I am very blessed to have wonderful friends who are helping me a lot. Since my shack is even more worthy of that name, I am now staying at a friend’s home. We share supplies like water, food and a kerosene heater. We sleep lined up in one room, eat by candlelight, share stories. It is warm, friendly, and beautiful.

During the day we help each other clean up the mess in our homes. People sit in their cars, looking at news on their navigation screens, or line up to get drinking water when a source is open. If someone has water running in their home, they put out a sign so people can come to fill up their jugs and buckets.

Lifestyles Lifestyles

Utterly amazingly where I am there has been no looting, no pushing in lines. People leave their front door open, as it is safer when an earthquake strikes. People keep saying, ‘Oh, this is how it used to be in the old days when everyone helped one another.’

Quakes keep coming. Last night they struck about every 15 minutes. Sirens are constant and helicopters pass overhead often.

Leamington Br. 84 Legion news

By Lisa Cowen-Tehonchuk

In the sports arena, our annual Easter dart tournament is coming up. If you don’t know about it, come into the Branch to find out. Everyone is welcome. There are Friday night fun darts every Friday at 8 p.m. Cost is $2. These events are open to the public.

The Junior dart players were in a tournament with Kingsville Legion. It was a good day for both Branches. The kids did very well and are traveling to Bothwell on March 26 to play in the district dart tournament. Good luck to all the kids from both Branches.

We would like to pass on condolences to the families of Robert Watson and Betty Sovie.

We started a new year, but our membership is down. Members who have not paid their dues, please do so as soon as you can. If you see a member, remind him or her to pay their dues.

We have started the weekly Snowball draw. This is open to Legion members only, so come in and get your numbers before they are all taken. See bartenders for details.

On Saturday we have a meat draw that starts at 2:30 p.m. The first draw is at 3:30 p.m., second draw at 4 p.m., third draw 4:30 p.m., and the last draw is at 5 p.m. along with a 50/50 draw. You have to be there to win.

The Seniors dinner in April will be a fish fry, with Gord Ciliska playing. This event is open to the public, so come join the fun.

The next Executive meeting is on April 20. The next General meeting is on April 6 at 7 p.m. The General meeting will be taking nominations for office. See you all there.

We got water for a few hours in our homes last night, and now it is for half a day. Electricity came on this afternoon. Gas has not yet come on. But all of this is by area. Some people have these things, others do not. No one has washed for several days. We feel grubby, but there are so much more important concerns than that for us now. I love this peeling away of non-essentials. Living fully on the level of instinct, of intuition, of caring, of what is needed for survival, not just of me, but of the entire group. There are strange parallel universes happening. Houses a mess in some places, yet then a house with futons or laundry out drying in the sun.

People lining up for water and food, and yet a few people out walking their dogs. All happening at the same time.

Other unexpected touches of beauty are first, the silence at night. No cars. No one out on the streets. And the heavens at night are scattered with stars. I usually can see about two, but now the whole sky is filled.

The mountains of Sendai are solid and with the crisp air we can see them silhouetted against the sky magnificently And the Japanese themselves are so wonderful. I come back to my shack to check on it each day, now to send this e-mail since the electricity is on, and I find food and water left in my entranceway. I have no idea from whom, but it is there. Old men in green hats go from door to door checking to see if everyone is OK. People talk to complete strangers asking if they need help. I see no signs of fear. Resignation, yes, but fear or panic, no.

They tell us we can expect aftershocks, and even other major quakes, for another month or more. And we are getting

constant tremors, rolls, shaking, rumbling. I am blessed in that I live in a part of Sendai that is a bit elevated, a bit more solid than other parts. So, so far this area is better off than others. Last night my friend’s husband came in from the country, bringing food and water. Blessed again.

Somehow at this time I realize from direct experience that there is indeed an enormous cosmic evolutionary step that is occurring all over the world right at this moment. And somehow as I experience the events happening now in Japan, I can feel my heart opening very wide. My brother asked me if I felt so small because of all that is happening. I don’t. Rather, I feel as part of something happening that much larger than myself. This wave of birthing (worldwide) is hard, and yet magnificent. Thank you again for your care and love of me. With love in return, to you all.”

So very inspiring and written by Dee Wallace as posted on Facebook.

Submission deadline for juried student art show is Mar. 26

The Leamington Arts Centre is presenting the 13th annual “You’re the Heart of Our Success” juried student art show March 30-April 23. The show is open to entries from all Essex County secondary school students for submissions of their painting, photography, sculpture and poetry. Deadline to enter is March 26 at 4 p.m.

An opening reception and awards night will be held Thursday, April 7 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.

The Leamington Arts Centre is located at 72 Talbot Street West. Hours of operation are Tues.-Fri. from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sat. from 12 p.m.-4 p.m.

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Marijuana bust in Leamington

On March 16 at 12:30 p.m., investigators with the OPP Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau and the Essex County OPP Community Drug Action Team executed Controlled Drugs and Substances Act search warrants at two separate apartments located on MCR Drive in the Municipality of Leamington.

Police located approximately 90 marijuana plants, 427 grams of dried marijuana shake (leaf and stem), 196 grams of marijuana, 5 grams of cannabis resin, 16 containers of various strains of marijuana seeds, 3 digital scales, marijuana packaging materials and approximately $200 in cash.

Three males, ages 57, 42 and 41 years of age, and one female, age 18, all from Leamington, face criminal charges of marijuana production, possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking, possession of cannabis resin, possession of marijuana and occupant injure building.

The accused parties have been released on a Promise to Appear with a court date in Leamington on April 21, 2011.

Hydro to the building has been terminated as a result of recommendations made by Essex Power and the Leamington Building Inspector due to unsafe electrical conditions within the residence.

Suspects Apprehended in Rash of Break and Enters

In the early morning hours of March 19, Leamington and Kingsville OPP responded to a series of commercial break, enter and theft investigations.

Leamington OPP responded to motor vehicle collision on Road 4 and the 12th Concession Road in Leamington involving a PT Cruiser. Officers arrived to find the vehicle unoccupied but containing a number of suspected stolen power tools. The registered owner of the vehicle was from Leamington. Officers confirmed that a break and enter had occurred at a business on Hwy 77 north of Leamington where a number of power tools were stolen.

Shortly after, Kingsville OPP responded to an alarm at a business on Main Street in. When the officers arrived they found the front glass smashed out and what appeared to be a theft of cash from the business. Two suspects were observed leaving the scene in a light-coloured pickup.

Within 15 minutes, Leamington OPP responded to an alarm on Talbot Street East. Suspects smashed the front door of the business but were averted by a delivery driver, which subsequently scared the culprits off. Again, two suspects were observed leaving the scene in a light-coloured pickup.

Investigation resulted in Essex County OPP locating one of the suspects at a residence in Leamington. This suspect was found in possession of suspected property pertaining to the break and enters. Officers were also successful in locating the suspect vehicle traveling in close proximity to the above residence. The vehicle failed to stop for police. A short time later, the suspect vehicle was located abandoned in an alley off Orange Street.

Further investigation resulted in the successful apprehension of the second suspect. Two Leamington males, ages 37 and 28, face numerous criminal charges including break and enter and theft, break and enter with intent, possession under $5000, theft of motor vehicle, mischief under $5000, breach of recognizance, flight from police, dangerous driving and failing to remain at the scene of a collision.

Police Respond to Several Calls

Sometime overnight on March 18 a house on Seacliff Drive West was egged.

On March 18, culprit(s) attempted a break and enter at a residence on Mersea Road 5 by trying to pry open the back door.

Also on March 18, a door valued at $150 was stolen from a construction site on Robson Road.

On March 19, Leamington OPP were advised of a break and enter at a restaurant on Bevel Line Road, Leamington. Culprit(s) broke a patio door on the south side of the building. Liquor was stolen from the restaurant.

On March 21, Leamington OPP received a report of glass being broken in the main entrance of Cardinal Carter High School.

A vehicle was damaged (scratched and dented) on March 21 while it was parked in a parking lot on Erie Street South.

Suspicious Fire in Tecumseh

On March 18 at 2:40 p.m., Tecumseh OPP and Tecumseh Fire responded to a 9-1-1 call reporting a residential fire at 12334 Renaud Street. Tecumseh Fire attended the scene and successfully extinguished the fire.

As a result of a preliminary investigation, the Ontario Fire Marshall was requested to attend the scene as the fire was deemed suspicious in nature. The Essex County Criminal Investigation Unit is currently assisting with the investigation.

The Salvation Army Thrift Store has moved!

The store has relocated to 129 Erie Street South inside the Phoenix Plaza. Be sure to stop in and support this store filled with gently used clothes and items. Salvation Army Thrift Stores generally accept used donations of furniture, clothing, household wares and appliances, and other items that are resold to the general public. Revenue helps fund the organization’s various community programs. Pictured here is Julie Scratch, a 14-year volunteer with the Leamington Salvation Army Thrift Store.

Changes in registration requirements announced for small watercraft

Important changes to Transport Canada’s small vessel registration requirements were announced March 17 by the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.

Owners of human-powered vessels, such as canoes, kayaks and small sailing vessels, as well as small vessels with motors less than 7.5 kilowatts (10 horsepower), will not have to register their craft with Transport Canada.

“We do not believe Canadian boaters should face onerous regulations to go canoeing and kayaking, which is why registration requirements for all human-powered vessels, small sailing vessels and small motorized vessels will not be required,” said Minister Strahl.

This registration will continue to be required for commercial river rafts, government vessels and for any vessels where registration is necessary for safety reasons.

For those vessels that still must be registered, Transport Canada is also introducing a new simplified process. For a vessel or a fleet of vessels, Transport Canada will now accept a single application form, and charge a $50 fee that is valid for five years.

Owners registering a fleet of human-powered vessels must also provide the number, length or approximate length, and type of vessels in the fleet, including the Hull Identification Number (HIN) if available.

Transport Canada must be informed of a change in ownership of a vessel or fleet, and if the vessel or fleet has been disbanded.

“What doesn’t change are the safety requirements. Small vessels, such as canoes and kayaks, their owners and users must continue to adhere to all safety requirements under the Canada Shipping Act,” said Minister Strahl.

(SUN Photo)

99 reasons for greatness

Over the years, I’ve listened to as many motivational speakers as anybody. I credit my cousin Ted for first plugging me into the likes of Zig Ziglar, Les Brown and many others. I can’t thank him enough for the introduction. I’ve got quite a bit of personal mileage from those teachings. Most of the “motivational masters” have plenty of good to say. They exist, largely, in my opinion, to exploit (in a well-intentioned way) the craving that so many of us have to improve our lives, our skills, and to figure out our place in the world.

Personally, I found the words of wisdom from Zig, Dale, Norman, Stephen and others to be quite helpful in my humble accomplishments to date. Of course, any sane person has to realize that with anything in life, you have to have a grounded perspective.

For example, being absolutely convinced and invested in the pursuit that you can be who you want to be, do what you want to do and climb any mountain requires an asterisks and some small print.

Many years ago, while driving back from a neighbouring community on a particularly boozy weekend, one of our buddies began to sell the magic of “thinking big” to one of the more skeptical minds in the vehicle. On fire with desire and fresh from a recent seminar or book or whatever, our buddy, in a slightly evangelical tone, was promising that “if you can imagine it, you can make it come true… you have the power to become absolutely anything you want.” My friend on the receiving end of this message began to sport a smart-ass grin and replied smugly, “Really?!” “Yes!” our motivational mate promised, “anything.” My friend replied “That’s friggin’ awesome, because I want to play third base for the New York Yankees!”

The longer I exist and the more I read (e.g. Malcolm Gladwell books), the more I’m coming to understand the success of Wayne Gretzky and others whose success is “off the charts”. 99’s zenith success was not the direct result of his extreme motivation, though motivation had to be key factory.

I think Wayne Gretzky became the world’s greatest hockey player because of alchemy of a number of factors that quite frankly would be impossible to duplicate exactly.

• His birthday in January was a key factor. With minor hockey registrations taking place in the beginning of the year, l’il Wayne was afforded a head start over many of the other boys in his grouping. In the hockey culture, the more advanced kids get more ice time and more instruction.

• Wayne has some good genetics too. His father, Walter, was a respected

amateur player in his day. Wayne’s two younger brothers, Keith and Brent, both played pro hockey and his sister excelled in track and field.

• Wayne’s dad built a backyard rink and from all accounts his oldest son couldn’t get enough use out of it.

• Wayne’s dad pushed him every step of the way and he welcomed it.

• His grandmother supported his obsession by playing goal with mini-sticks in her living room and she would also allow him to place tracing paper over the hockey broadcasts so that Wayne could mark Xs from where the scoring shots came from.

• The influences of his Polish heritage installed a tremen-

Weese’s Pieces Pieces

dous work ethic.

And there are likely a half-dozen other symbiotic factors that I’m unfamiliar with.

The moderately successful folks among us may have a list of factors that simply miss some key ingredients when compared to what was mixed into the success of Gretzky or Bill Gates or Barack Obama. Perhaps it’s time for some of us to examine our personal pantry.

Flyers reflect on rebuilding season

The 2010-2011 Leamington Flyers

Just a few days after their heartbreaking, season-ending overtime loss to the LaSalle Vipers, the Leamington Flyers gathered last Wednesday at the Heinz Arena to clean out their stalls and gather for a team picture.

The players and coaches are now dealing with the harsh reality that the season has ended but in reflecting on the last eight months, they feel this year was both memorable and successful for many different reasons.

Flyers defenseman Ryan Crevatin, who is graduating after playing almost 150 games with the team, said this season is special to him because of the improvements that were made. “For me this year was really special because of how the team improved this season. Being part of this big step forward is what I’ll remember most.”

First year goaltender Colin Greeley agreed: “It’s been an honour to be a part of the new face of the Leamington Flyers. The end of the season didn’t turn out the way we wanted but it was definitely a season to remember. We basically started from scratch and made vast improvements throughout the season.”

Head coach Tony Piroski said that despite the disappointing playoff loss, there are many positives to take away from this season.

“We didn’t get the final result we wanted but we took big strides in the right direction. We built a team that kids are going to want to play on. I think we did the town and organization proud and we are going to build on that next season.”

One of the most obvious improvements the Flyers made this season was winning 26 regular season games compared to 7 wins last season. But while the statistics speak for themselves, Flyers general manager Pete Anthony said the most important thing is that the team has proven that they can be competitive. And many would agree since the Flyers were able to take the defending Sutherland Cup Champions to seven games in the playoffs.

“It’s important that we’ve proven we can compete at a higher level,” Anthony said. “We had a big task of rebuilding this year and we had to replace a significant amount of players to get the attitude and mindset changed in the dressing room. Fortunately everyone was on the same page and all bought into Tony’s systems.”

Many of the players credited coach Piroski and his staff for the team’s successes this season. Flyers defenseman Jeff Lobman, who is graduating along with Crevatin and Eric Mayor, said that playing for Piroski and his coaching staff is one of the highlights of his time spent in Leamington.

“Playing under the best coaching staff I’ve ever played for was an unbelievable experience,” Lobman said. “And it also meant a lot that I could finish my junior hockey career off in a place that means a lot to me. The support from everyone in town and playing with a great group of guys was really special.”

In addition to the direction given by the coaching staff, many of the players also credited the team’s success to their camaraderie on and off the ice.

“I’ve never been on a team where everyone is so close,” said forward Matt Ogden. “We’re a lot like brothers and that made it a lot easier to work together and be on the same page out there.”

Looking ahead to next season, 19 of this year’s 22 players are eligible to come back. Forward Kyle Bowman thinks that for those players who do return next season, this year’s playoff loss will be the catalyst for even greater success next season.

“Losing was a tough pill to swallow but we’re going to bounce back next year. I think we have a great thing going here and we want to continue to make the town proud of us.”

By Melissa McCarty

Back row - l to r: Jamie McDermott (assistant coach), Mark Epplett (assistant coach), Ryan Sellon (equipment manager), Dr. Luca s Szczepanik (team doctor), John Forbes (equipment manager), Jeff Lobman, Cheyne Matheson, Eric Mayor, Brett Babkirk, Eric Leardi, Burke D’Souza, Ron Soucie, Dylan Solecki, Jared Dennis, Koddi Quick, Kyle Bowman, Kody Polin, Jake Fehr (owner), Dr. Steve O’Neil (team doctor), Howard Hughes (equipment manager), Kevin Hopper (assistant general manager), Pete Anthony (general manager), Tony Piroski (head coach) Front row - l to r: Zakk Ol vin, Alex Seguin, Austin Mattson, Ryan Crevatin, Nick Nicodemo, Matt Ogden, Tyler Quigley, Chris Scott, Colin Greeley Absent: Tony Spidalieri, Abe Fehr (owner), Gary Langeman (owner), Lee Jones (assistant coach), Riley Jones (dressing room assistant).

The Southpoint Capitals

Peewee A team sponsored by Gabriele’s Floor and Home are tied at two points apiece in a six-point OMHA Championship series against the Cobourg Cougars. The next three games in the series are coming to Southpoint.

Peewee A’s OMHA finals in town this weekend

Game 3 of the series is slated for Friday, March 25 at 8 p.m. at Wheatley Arena. The next game is Saturday, March 26 at 3 p.m. at the Heinz Rink and then Game 5 (if needed) will be Sunday, March 27 at 2 p.m. at Wheatley Arena.

The Southpoint Capitals were in Cobourg on Saturday, March 12 for Game 1 in Cobourg. Southpoint lost the opening game 4-2, but rebounded on Sunday to win 3-1.

Bringing the series home tied at two points apiece, Head Coach Terry Symons is hoping the community comes out to support the team. “It would be great to see the community come out. I’d like to see a good crowd for the boys,” said Symons.

The Cobourg team has won the OMHA Championship for the past two The Southpoint Capitals want fans to show their support by wearing white to the games. The WHITE-OUT Craze will show the players the support in the stands from the ice.

The Gabriele’s Floor and Home Peewee Capitals have had a very successful season. “We

started back in October by winning the Woolwich tournament. We did well in season play and just carried it into the playoffs. The Capitals’ first match was against St. Thomas, which they took six points to zero in three straight games. The next matchup was against Riverside where they found themselves down two games to one, but came back to win the next two games and take the series.

The Southpoint Capitals played their quarter-final series against Niagara Falls. The Capitals were quite familiar with the Niagara Falls team having played them twice in the Woolwich tourney.

The Capitals had lost to them in round robin play, but beat them in a shootout in the final. The Capitals found themselves down three points to one in this series, but came back to win in an extra game.

Midget AEs win, tie

The Bob Dick Plant farm Midget AEs played host to the Riverside Rangers on Friday evening on the Heinz rink and came out on top with a 3-1 win. Jared Mastronardi sparked the offence with two goals and an assist. Branden McKeen tallied a single goal and one assist. Jonathan Augustine returned to the lineup and added a helper in the winning cause. Matt Chamberlain was in net and picked up the win for the Caps.

On Sunday evening the Caps travelled to LaSalle to take on the league-leading Sabres. Southpoint jumped out to an early lead when Branden McKeen teamed up with

Taylor Omstead and Evan Nash to open the scoring. LaSalle tied the game before the end of the first. Omstead put the Caps ahead in the second when he found the back of the net. Jared Adams and McKeen picked up the assists. The Caps held onto the lead until midway through the third when LaSalle tied the game on the power play. Southpoint had good scoring chances but were not able to capitalize and the game ended in a 2-2 tie. Tyler Jackson was in net for the Caps and had a very strong game.

Next action will see the Caps play back-to-back games with Windsor on Tuesday and at home on Wednesday.

This photo was taken after the Peewee A’s semi-final win against Centre Wellington. Back row, left to right: Bailey Loveless, Matthew Taylor, Kody Epp, Jimmy McClellan, Tyler Wall, Matthew Davie, Darrin DiMenna, Evan Mastronardi, Reid Jackson, Ryan Wall, Noah Santos and Eric Prudence. Front row, left to right: Rory DiNiro, Quinn Bowman, Brayden Klemens, Brett Enns and Brendan Fehr. Absent from photo: Andrea Symons, Manager; Grant Symons, Equipment Manager; Terry Symons, Coach; Darryl Glasier, Coach; Thomas Grubb, Coach; and Stefan Taylor, Coach.

(Submitted Photo)

Sharks drop first game of Jr. C finals

On Friday night the Wheatley Sharks opened the Great Lakes Jr. C Finals in Belle River. This is also the first round of the Schmalz Cup, the Ontario Jr. C Championship. Belle River Canadiens opened the scoring early when Andrew Synnott flew down the wing and then passed out front to Spencer Jean at 1:06 into the game.

For the next 30 minutes both teams tested each other and the score remained tied until the Sharks’ Dustin Woelk made a great play at the opponents blue line to grab the puck off the Belle River player and then sent a beautiful pass to Andy Stevenson in front of the Canadiens net who made no mistake to tie the game. This opened the floodgates as Belle River scored 3 goals. Then with just 3 minutes to go in the middle frame Wheatley’s Kurtis Ouellette let a great wrist shot go from the point that found the twine. His goal was assisted by Dylan Cosford. Thirty seconds later Kurtis Ouellette let a booming shot go from the point that Shawn Quigley was able to tip in the net. Anthony Stankiewicz also got an assist on Wheatley’s third goal.

With the score 4-3 for Belle River at the end of two, it was a whole new game. However, Belle River put thoughts of a comeback win out of the Sharks’ mind when Chris DiNatale scored from the deep slot with assists from Scott Chauvin and Nik Dobric. Nik Dobrich added a final marker for the Canadiens in the dying minute of the game to give Belle River a 6-3 victory.

Once again Wheatley’s Marc Tremblay stood tall in the net as he faced 34 shots to Andrew Thompson’s 28 shots. Game notes: This Belle River team is a fast and quick group of hockey players. They play the game much the same as the Sharks and it looks like this will be a great match-up. Referee Greg Campbell called a very inconsistent game as both teams were left scratching their heads many times over some very frustrating calls.

Next home game is this Wednesday, March 23 at the Shark Tank. Game time is 7:30 p.m. Come out and watch exciting Jr. Hockey. So far in the playoffs, the Sharks have had great crowds to watch their games and lead the league in playoff attendance.

Next Games:

Wed. Mar 23 @ Wheatley 7:30

Fri. Mar. 25 @ Belle River 7:30

Mon. Mar. 28 @ Wheatley 7:30

REC ROUND-UP REC ROUND-UP

Rock ’n Swim: Friday, March 25 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Bring the whole family for a splashing good time in the Complex pool. Thanks to Lakeside Bakery for sponsoring the music!

Complex Student Memberships are a very affordable and very popular annual membership among the teenage crowd!

Meet with a Personal Trainer or Nutrition and Wellness Coach and they’ll help you reach new goals! Plus there’s Training for Two! Don’t be intimidated! Get yourself and a friend over to the Complex, meet with a trainer and they’ll help to get you onto a whole new course of motivation and energy!

The Right Weigh To Lose It: NEW! Exercise and nutrition program led by Rosie and Kelly, who will help you reach your goals!

Prevention Program: Learn how to prevent or cope with a chronic health problem e.g. heart, stroke, diabetes, lung COPD, knee or hip replacement, etc. This 6-month moderate exercise program led by Jaye will give the participant reassurance and motivation!

Attention Adults and Seniors: Are you concerned about falling and breaking bones? The Complex has 3 different classes to improve your balance and co-ordination.

Come check out the Complex weight room and cardio equipment: It’s a proven fact that regular exercise relives stress and gives you more energy - and the Complex has every age, size, shape and figure of person working out! Everyone needs to think of exercise and health and fitness, and do what they can do to improve their heart rate and their range of motion and mobility. Ward off osteoporosis, ward off chronic disease. Come join the growing numbers of people who are working out at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex.

We have something for every...body!

Leamington 519-322-2337

Wheatley Sharks’ goalie Marc Tremblay keeps an eye on a rolling puck in Great Lakes Jr. ‘C’ action, Friday in Belle River. The Canadiens took the first game in the series 6-3. (A. Comber Photo)

(Photo by

Pro Shots Imaging)

Fire boat built in Wheatley named for fallen Chicago firefighter Christopher

By Sheila McBrayne

Daniel Wheatley took a flight from Chicago to Detroit and rented a car to come to Wheatley, Ontario. Why? He had to see the new fire rescue boat being built that will be named in honour of his son, the late Christopher Wheatley.

The vessel is being built at Hike Metal Products and was on Lake Erie on Wednesday afternoon as the water pump engines were being tested on the boat. Mr. Wheatley was in town on Thursday, March 17 to see the boat named for his son. Christopher Wheatley was a Chicago firefighter who died on August 9, 2010 doing what he loved to do best –fight fires.

The 31-year-old firefighter and paramedic of Engine Co. 5 in Chicago fell approximately 35 feet while carrying 75 pounds of equipment up a fire escape to battle a restaurant fire. He apparently slipped and fell to the ground.

Wheatley became a paramedic in 2000 and a firefighter in 2008.

Dan Wheatley was recently informed that the Chicago Fire Department planned to name their new fire boat/ice breaker after Christopher and it was going to be named “Wheatley”. When Mr. Wheatley researched Hike Metal Products, he was “shocked” to find out that the boat was actually being made in Wheatley, Ontario.

“That doesn’t happen every day I can tell you. What a coincidence,” said Frank Baptista, Shop Manager at Hike Metal. The boat took 14 months to build and is scheduled to leave for Chicago on April 15. After travelling Lake Erie, via Detroit River to Lake St. Clair, through Lake Huron and to Lake Michigan, the Wheatley is expected to arrive in Chicago on April 18.

Mr. Wheatley told The Journal that the contract to build the boat was awarded in 2009 (one year before his son died). “It’s like he’s talking to us; telling us something,” he said. “He wasn’t just my son, he was my best friend, my buddy, my partner,” said his father. “He taught me a lot about living… He travelled all the time. He’s been around the world in his 31 years… Now, I’m retired and travelling as much as I can,” said Dan Wheatley.

The actual name will not be put on the boat until it arrives in Chicago, at which time an official dedication ceremony will take place.

In a Chicago Tribune news article about the accident, Christopher was described as being very well-liked and always had a smile on his face. “He was one of our best,” said a fellow firefighter. “He was more than son. It’s nice that he’ll be honoured,” said Dan.

Christopher and Daniel Wheatley

(Photo by Brian Brockman)

Skate Wheatley’s

Christopher Wheatley

MCB hosts South Area Communication Festival

Mount Carmel-Blytheswood Public School hosted the South Area Communication Festival on Tuesday, March 1.

Tom Q. of M.D. Bennie Public School won first place with his speech on the “History of Facebook”. Second-place winner was Cameron A. from Mount Carmel-Blytheswood Public School. His topic was “Kindergarten”.

These were the only medals that were handed out for this event.

Tom and Cameron went on to compete at the GECDSB auditorium on March 8.

Gr. 1-4 students at M.D. Bennie enjoyed Popcorn ’n Pyjamas for Hospice on Friday, March 11, a movie fundraiser organized by a Gr. 6 student as part of a Students Taking Action project. Over $300 was raised to support people with cancer.

Former Cardinal Carter teacher recipient of prestigious mathematics award

Two mathematics teachers with the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board have been selected as recipients of prestigious awards from The Ontario Association for Mathematics Education.

Former Cardinal Carter High School teacher David Petro is the 2011 recipient of OAME Award for Leadership in Mathematics Education. The award recognizes an educator who has demonstrated leadership by contributing in a significant way to the development of mathematics teachers and enhancing mathematics education in Ontario. David is the

former Math Department Head at Cardinal Carter and currently works at the Catholic Education Centre in Secondary D.I. Numeracy Support.

Assumption College Catholic High School teacher Steve Chevalier is the 2011 recipient of the Award for Exceptional and Creative Teaching in Secondary Mathematics. This award recognizes an exceptional and creative secondary teacher who demonstrates David Petro excellence in mathematics education and contributes to the overall development of students. Steve has also been awarded the Descartes Medal for the Advancement of Mathematics in Ontario from the University of Waterloo Rene Descartes Foundation.

OAME envisions a learning environment where all students do, see, hear, and touch mathematics in a profound and meaningful way. The association sees the classroom as a community where teachers and students work collaboratively to learn and value mathematics. Its mission is to promote excellence in mathematics education throughout the province of Ontario

David Petro and Steve Chevalier will receive their awards at the OAME 2011 Banquet May 13 in Windsor.

Cameron A. of MCB placed second in the South Area Communication Festival.

a $10,000 grant from

Student service club receives $10,000 grant

Mennonite Savings and Credit Union is pleased to announce that UMEI Christian High School is the recipient of the MSCU Charitable Fund $10,000 focus grant for Mutual Aid.

The recipient project at UMEI is the new Faith in Action club, developing leadership in the area of service. The Faith in Action club helps students gain awareness of poverty and homelessness in Essex County and involves helping others in the wider community.

Chani Wiens, teacher and coordinator of the club, said “Developing future leaders with a strong sense of commitment to service strengthens the entire community so we needed the community to be involved in making this happen.”

That’s where Mennonite Savings and Credit Union (MSCU) was pleased to get involved. Through the MSCU Charitable Fund, the Faith in Action club has received a $10,000 boost.

John Dean, MSCU Leamington Branch Manager, explained that “each year the MSCU Charitable Fund distributes more than $70,000 to projects throughout Ontario but it

South Essex Community Council is hosting an employment and education information fair on March 25, 2011 at the Leamington Recreation Complex.

Many people are looking for ways to gain an edge in this competitive labour market, but it’s difficult to know where to get information or assistance.

The Connexions for Success Information Fair is a great opportunity to explore career and training options, get free resume advice, and find out what types of employment services are in the community to assist individ-

uals in their job search. Presentations on various topics will be taking place throughout the day. Among them is a workshop designed to help individuals maintain a healthy lifestyle while unemployed. There will also be an information session to help you plan and successfully interview for the job you want.

Other presentations include steps to financial fitness, increasing your employability by volunteering, and labour market trends for employment. SECC staff will also be available to offer advice on resumes and

chooses just one to be a focus grant. We were delighted that the committee chose the Faith in Action club for this year’s focus grant on the theme of mutual aid. It’s a chance for us to show that the development of socially-conscious young people is extremely important. Their action in this community is going to be needed for years to come.”

The Faith in Action club has already volunteered with Coats 4 Kids, organized a can drive, which raised 3,738 cans of food for local food banks, and provided care packages for those in need at St. John’s Anglican Church’s Community Meals program. Future plans include an after-school program for kids and a trip to Toronto to volunteer and learn more about homelessness.

The club is extremely grateful for the financial support. Olivia Dean, a Grade 11 student, said, “Being in Faith in Action has really opened my eyes to local issues and has given me many opportunities to learn and to serve. Personally, I am looking forward to using the grant MSCU gave us to make an impact on our community by raising awareness and fighting local poverty. Thank you MSCU for giving us the opportunity to take our club to the next level.”

job searching throughout the day.

A “marketplace” will also be set up, comprised of information booths by a number of local service providers and educational institutions. These include: South Essex Community Council, Great Lakes Technical Training, Academy of Learning, CMHA, Financial Fitness, Everest College, Marvel Beauty Schools, Service Canada, Trios College, New Canadians Centre of Excellence, Kiwanis, Opportunity Diploma, Windsor Welding Institute, and Canadian College of Health

Atom Majors dropped an away game to the Stars on Saturday night 6-1. Matt Travis got the lone Southpoint goal late in the 1st period to tie the game at one each. Joseph Alfano collected the assist on the Travis’s goal. After that it was all Amherstburg, getting 5 unanswered goals with 2 coming by way of the PP. Southpoint played a very contact game which resulted in 4 body contact penalties.

The team will again travel to Amherstburg next Saturday night for the last game of the season.

Science and Technology. Presentations for the day include:

• Ten Steps to Financial Fitness 10:30 a.m.

• Keeping Well While Unemployed 11:30 a.m.

• Labour Market Trends for Employment 1:00 p.m.

• Are You Polished for Employment Success? 2:00 p.m.

• Increasing Your Employability by Volunteering 3:00 p.m.

UMEI’s Faith in Action club received

Mennonite Savings & Credit Union Charitable Fund. Members of Faith in Action are pictured with (front, from the left) Audrey Dueck (MSCU), John Dean (USCU), Chani Wiens (UMEI teacher and club coordinator), and Ken Hildebrandt (MSCU). (Photo submitted)

HUGE SPRING SAVINGS

Account Set-Up or Swap Fees

set-up fee and

Early Nights & Weekends

Get early nights and weekends starting at 6pm on

activations.

Plans taking shape for Afternoon Tea fundraiser for cancer

Committee looking for teacups

By Allison Siddall

There are very few of us – if any – who have not been touched by cancer, either personally or through a family member, friend or co-worker, and their family and friends. Cancer extinguishes the lives of too many and casts a dark shadow across the lives of so many others, and its ravages are far-reaching.

Liz DelCiancio of Leamington was faced with the diagnosis of this dreaded disease in the form of breast cancer just before Christmas 2009. Following a lumpectomy and axilliary dissection to determine if the cancer had spread to surrounding lymph nodes, Liz began the long road of treatment, which included three months of chemotherapy and five weeks of radiation.

In February of 2010, Liz attended a workshop at the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre to learn how to apply makeup and wear wigs and scarves in anticipation of the hair loss that is one of the side effects of chemotherapy. Many cancer patients don’t have insurance coverage to purchase wigs, and the Image Enhancement Room at the Cancer Centre provides wigs, hats and scarves at no cost to those experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatments.

Even though she was still in treatment, Liz wanted to help others. She and her daughter, Sarah, had attended a traditional afternoon tea in England in 2008, and she decided she would host an Afternoon Tea on May 20, 2010 at her home as a way to fundraise. A group of ladies gathered and enjoyed tea sandwiches, scones and jam, desserts, a variety of teas and fellowship to raise money for the Enhancement Room. In just two hours, $2,000 was raised to help those who don’t have benefit coverage for the wigs.

Last year’s fundraiser was such a success that Liz is planning on making it an annual fundraising event, and on a much larger scale. This year, it will be a traditional Afternoon Tea, complete with elegant hats. It will be held on June 12th, 2011 at the Roma Club Pavilion in Leamington. Tickets are $30 each and Liz is hoping to host a sell-out crowd of 200 women. This year’s proceeds will benefit the Patient Assistance Fund at the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre. This fund provides assistance to cancer patients who are struggling due to the loss of an income or to help with unexpected costs that a patient may incur.

“I was lucky because I was able to stay home from work until I was ready to go back, both physically and mentally. I didn’t have the added stress of worrying about financial issues,” said Liz. “But there are too many people who don’t have benefit coverage and are returning to work while they are still in treatment, or shortly after treatment finishes, simply because they can’t afford not to go back.”

Liz has amassed a large inventory of teacups and saucers. She has purchased some through Kijiji and has received several donations of teacups, but she still needs about 80100 more. Most of us have tea service items on a shelf or packed away in a closet that are too pretty to throw away but are never used, and we just don’t know what to do with them. Liz would welcome donations such as teacups and saucers, teapots, creamers and sugar bowls for the Tea Party. Even items that are chipped, slightly cracked or stained will be put to good use as centerpieces for the tables.

“The response to this tea fundraiser so far has been overwhelming,” said Liz. “I have some friends who told their friends, and they have sent teacups and saucers. One woman even bought 3 new teacups to donate to the event because she didn’t have any and wanted to do something. It is heartwarming to know that so many people care.”

continued on page 19

Liz DelCiancio (left) visits with one of the guests at the Tea Party she hosted in her home last spring to raise funds for the Image Enhancement Room at Windsor Regional Cancer Centre. – photo by Sue Sykes Photography

Tea fundraiser

continued from page 8

Local musicians and vocalists are generously donating their time to provide entertainment during the afternoon tea. She and her committee (a group of 15 women who eagerly volunteered when asked by Liz) have begun to canvass businesses in the Windsor-Essex County area to help offset operating costs so that more of the funds raised can be directed to the cause. So far, she is overwhelmed by their generosity and is optimistic that they will be able to reach their goal.

Based on the excitement generated by her committee alone, she anticipates that this year’s event will be a sell-out within the first few days of ticket sales. Tickets will be available to purchase on April 1st. If you have any teacups, teapots, creamers and sugar bowls that you would like to donate, please contact Liz DelCiancio at 519-326-1955.

Artist Gabrielle Pescador is pictured with “The Heart and Hands of Coatlicue”. The painting is Pescador’s interpretation of a healing she experienced in the Indian village in Huautla, Mexico, and this is her interpretation of the healer. Coatlicue is the Aztec goddess who, according to legend, gave birth to the moon, stars, and Huitzilopochtli, the god of the sun and war.

“Shapeshifting” at Arts Centre

“Shapeshifting”, a fascinating and unusual exhibit by Gabrielle Pescador, is on display until March 26 at the Leamington Arts Centre. An opening reception was held Friday night, March 18.

Windsor-born Pescador is a painter and installation artist, who now lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

“My painting faces transformation, shapeshifting and the uninhibited manifestations of fragmented experiences, unveiling images imprinted in memory and selfgenerated dreams,” says Pescador of her work. “The processes of becoming, manifesting, reinvention and rebirth constitute the core of my painting in a contemporary, introspective and intense progression of shape, color and texture. My paintings confront the act of will and artistic power in the manifestation of dreams, memories and fantasies. Through my paintings I give birth to myself, as a shapeshifter, a bordercrosser, vowing to imprint my will through my craft in unconventional and unrestricted ways.”

Pescador has also exhibited in galleries and museums including the National Museum of Mexican Art, Michigan State University Museum, The Gallery Project, and Riverside Arts Centre.

The Arts Centre’s is open Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday from 12 p.m.-4 p.m.

the

and

Some of the beautiful teacups and saucers for the Tea Party were donated by

staff of the Cancer Centre

the Ontario Breast Screening Program. – photo by Sue Sykes Photography

Point Pelee offering 25% off annual passes

Parks Canada is offering 25% off all Point Pelee National Park annual passes until March 31. Annual passes are the most economical way to experience Canada’s southern sanctuary all year long. At sale prices, the passes pay for themselves in less than four visits. Walk trails, canoe, bike, take photos, bird watch, sunbathe, swim, cross country ski, skate, or picnic to your heart’s content. Point Pelee National Park delivers a new experience with every visit.

Current pass holders can take advantage of the sale. Renew your pass now and it will be extended one year beyond your current expiry date.

To take advantage of this limited time offer, call the park at 519-322-2365 ext. 200. You can also stop by in person at the administration office, 407 Monarch Lane, from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. during the week or at the park entrance kiosk from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on the weekend.

The Churches of Leamington and District Welcome You

ANGLICAN

St. John The Evangelist

60 Erie Street N., Leamington 519-326-3111

Sunday Worship Services

8:30 & 10:30 a.m.

St. Mary’s Church

East West Road, Pelee Island

1st & 3rd Sundays from June to September at 10 a.m.

Calvary Church

North Shore Road, Pelee Island

1st & 3rd Sundays from October to May at 10 a.m.

BAPTIST

Calvary Baptist Church

475 Bevel Line Road, Leamington 519-326-0876

Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

First Baptist Church

3 Fox Street, Leamington 519-326-4372

Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m.

Victory Baptist Church

61 Windwood Dr., Leamington 519-322-5952

Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m.

CONGREGATIONALIST

Faith Everlasting Congregational Church

589 Hwy 77, Leamington 519-322-2994

Sunday Worship 11 a.m.

LUTHERAN

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

311 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-3966

Sunday Worship Services

9:30 a.m. (German), 10:30 a.m. (English)

MENNONITE

Faith Mennonite Church

269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-6391

Sunday Worship Services

10:50 a.m. (Summer 10 a.m.)

Leamington Evangelical Mennonite Mission Church

1408 Deer Run Rd, Leamington 519-326-9734

Sunday Worship Services

9:15 a.m. (German), 10:45 a.m. (English)

Leamington Evangelical Mennonite Church 108 Mersea Rd 3, Leamington 519-322-9915

Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

Leamington United Mennonite Church 78 Oak Street East, Leamington 519-326-2727

Sunday Worship 9:45 a.m.

Summer Worship Services

9:30 a.m. (German), 10:15 a.m. (English)

Meadow Brook Fellowship 219 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-326-3605

Sunday Worship Services 9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.

North Leamington United Mennonite Church 625 Mersea Rd 6, Leamington 519-326-7928

Sunday Worship 10:20 a.m.

South Point Community Church 55A Talbot St. W., Leamington 519-322-1858

Sunday Gatherings 10 a.m.

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Iglesia La Buena Semilla

269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-733-0342

Sunday Worship 6:30 p.m.

Leamington District Memorial Hospital

194 Talbot St. W., Leamington 519-326-2373, Chaplain’s Office ext. 4443

PENTECOSTAL

FGT Family Church

285 Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-322-2316

Sunday Worships 9:15 & 11 a.m.

Leamington Christian Centre 98 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-322-1504

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 a.m., English/Spanish 6:30 p.m.

Templo Christiano De Leamington

39 Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-325-9654

Sunday Worship Services 3 p.m.

Mount Zion Full TabernacleGospel

6 Mill Street, Leamington 519-252-0031

Sunday Worship 7:30 p.m.

United Pentecostal Church

312 Erie St. St., Leamington 519-326-7056

Sunday Worship Services 11 a.m.

PRESBYTERIAN

Knox Presbyterian Church

58 Erie St. S., Leamington 519-326-4541

Sunday Worship Services 11 a.m.

ROMAN CATHOLIC

St. Michael’s Parish

29 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-326-2643

Sunday Masses:

9 a.m., 11 a.m., 7:30 p.m.

Sunday Spanish Mass 2:30 p.m. (February to November)

St. Joseph’s Church

310 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-2643

Saturday Mass 5 p.m.

Sunday Masses:

9 a.m. (Italian, English), 11 a.m. (Portuguese, English)

St. Anthony’s Parish (Maronite Rite)

280 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-322-2282

Sunday Masses 9:30 & 11 a.m. (Lebanese, English)

SALVATION ARMY

The Salvation Army Citadel 88 Setterington Street

Leamington 519-326-4901

Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA

Leamington United Church

9 John Street, Leamington 519-326-9461

Sunday Worship Services

10:30 a.m.

Mersea United Church 1301 Mersea Road 8, Wheatley 519-825-4157

Sunday Worship Services 9:30 a.m.

Thursday,

Friendship Dinners

Knox Presbyterian Church started having “Friendship Dinners” in January of this year to help out the members of the community that could use a friendly meal in comfortable surroundings. The free dinners are held once a month, and all the other churches in the area take turns as well.

The next free dinner is on Monday, March 28 at 5:30 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church hall at the corner of Setterington and Erie streets. This is a free home-cooked meal with dessert and beverage for those in need.

Historic Comber church destroyed in huge fire

By Dan Schwab

The oldest building in Comber burned to the ground in the early morning hours of March 17, leaving behind only memories and sadness among those in the community who grew up around the historic building.

The former Mount Olivet Methodist Church was built in 1888 and used as a church until the 1920s, when it closed after the local amalgamation of three Christian denominations.

In the following years, the building was used as a multi-purpose hall that Joan

Mellow remembers as being “the hub of the community.”

“Everything that was ever held that required a crowd was held at that hall,” says Mellow, who is a member of the Comber & District Historical Society Museum.

A few years ago, Mellow co-authored a book on the history of Comber, which included researching the historic building.

Mellow says over years the hall was a popular attraction when young people’s groups held Friday night dances.

Mellow and her husband

Ralph held their wedding shower there in 1953.

“It’s a real loss for Comber,” Mellow says. “Although it wasn’t used directly by the citizens now, still if you go down that main street in Comber, there’s that pile of rubble with so much history gone. It’s so sad to see it now.”

For a time, the building was used as an OddfellowsRebekah lodge. Most recently, it was used as a storage warehouse for antiques. Firefighters have not yet determined the cause of the blaze.

On

March 17th the residents, staff and guests at Leamington Court Retirement Residence celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in style. Following a Green Beer Happy Hour, residents enjoyed delicious snacks and drinks, while taking in the award-winning routines of a team from the Arden School of Irish Dance. (photo submitted)

Pictured above are the remains of Comber’s oldest building. The historic church was destroyed by fire on March 17. (photo by Dan Schwab)

Easter lilies and cats

In the In the Back Yard... Back Yard...

As Easter week approaches, lilies will become more common in our homes as potted plants or in fresh cut flower bouquets. Unfortunately, several types of lilies can be deadly to our beloved cats. Easter lily, tiger lily, rubrum lily, not to mention favorites such as azaleas and daffodils, can cause kidney failure. So this article is for my favorite cats, and that would be Sydney, Symon and cousin Neenie.

Within only a few hours of ingestion of this material, the cat may vomit, become lethargic or develop a lack of appetite. This will continue and worsen as kidney damage progresses. All parts of the lily plant are considered toxic and consuming even a small amount can cause severe poisoning. Within 36 to 72 hours, kidney failure may occur without proper treatment at a veterinarian.

However, on the bright side of things, you don’t have to get rid of all plants. Easter cactus, Easter daisies and violets are great alternatives. These also will help decorate your home and are safe for cats to be around. To be on the safe side, set out a pot of grass or catnip. This will certainly keep their mind on a healthier treat.

These hazards, however, do not end after the Easter celebration, but continue on into spring and summer. Popular plants such as geraniums, English ivy, tulips, rhubarb leaves, peony, marigold, lupine, lobelia and delphinium or larkspur can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration.

First Aid: If your cat is seen eating any of the plants, emergency treatment must begin within 6 hours of consumption. The chances are good that the cat will recover.

So back to Sydney, Symon and cousin Neenie. Now that I have completely ruined your outside spring excursions and perhaps spending Easter in the basement, it will be great to know that you are safe and healthy and will be able to enjoy sitting on my lap during our next visit.

Bill Plumb is a 5th generation horticulturist. He started his journey as an independent grower and wholesaler in 1971, joining the family business in Leamington going back to his father, uncle and grandfather to 1922. During that time he developed multiple retail flower and garden centres including a landscaping company with his brother. After selling that part of the business, Bill continued growing seedlings and potted nursery stock, developing a successful mail order business. Email: bpmarketing24@yahoo.ca.

New daffodil pin symbol of courage in “Fight Back” against cancer

By Andy Comber

Members of the local Canadian Cancer Society unveiled a new daffodil pin, before the meeting of Essex County council Mar. 16. The pin is part of the Daffodil Month “Fight Back” campaign to be held in April.

“To some the daffodil is just a flower,” said Judy Lund, manager for the Essex County Unit of the Canadian Cancer Society. “To us, it is a symbol of strength and courage. It says we will not give up. It says we will fight back. It says we will beat cancer.”

Lund said the CCS has been selling daffodils to help fight cancer for more than 50 years. And along with donations, Daffodil Month raised $7.3 million in Ontario last year.

Thanks to Society-funded research, the treatment of cancer, and the quality of life during treatment has improved dramatically in the past 20 years. Today, 62% of people diagnosed with cancer will survive the disease, compared to only about 33% in the 1960s.

Lund said the fight against cancer continues. In 2010, over 65,000 Ontarians were diagnosed with cancer and another 28,200 died of the disease. In both men and women, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death, claiming about 6,700 Ontarians last year.

Lund asked everyone to join the fight against cancer by wearing the new daffodil pin and making donations of funds and time. “Show those living with cancer that they are not living alone; we are all standing behind them.”

Volunteers are needed to become workplace “Daffodil Champions” and to help during Daffodil Days or as residential canvassers. To volunteer call 519-254-5116.

To the glue that keeps our family together!

Frieda Woelk

Love your family

Curling club hosts senior bonspiel

By Gordon Wonnick

Wednesday, March 16, Sun Parlour Curling Club

hosted the 41st Annual St. Patrick’s Day senior bonspiel. Sixteen teams participated in the competition which included 4 teams from the host club and 12 teams from out of town. The curling was of a very high caliber and most entertaining.

In the early draw the results were: 1st place – Jack Proctor’s team from Windsor; 2nd place – Pearson team, Ridgetown; 3rd place – Murphy team, Wallaceburg; 4th place – Tallieu team, Kingsville.

In the late draw the results were: 1st place – Thompson team from London (they also had best overall record); 2nd place – Nelson team, Detroit; 3rd place – McMurree team, Sun Parlour; 4th place – Wiltshire team, Kingsville. This is always a great event and most teams are expected to be back next year.

Mae Christiansen

Please join us March 26, 2011 between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m. as we celebrate Mae Christiansen’s 90th Birthday at Ruthven-Olinda United Church Hall 1907 Queen St., Ruthven, Ontario Best Wishes only please.

•

•

which is even better.”

• “Our educational trips throughout and at the end of the year, set us apart.”

• “I love the parties and all-school events that help us interact with the entire school, not just our class.”

• “We strive to make a difference, instead of just existing.” Register byMarch31st and receive a $100 tuition reduction

Simona Lehan Owner/Designer

CARD OF THANKS

RHODA ASCOTT

The family of the late Rhoda Ascott would like to express our sincerest gratitude for all the love and kindness shown with the passing of our wonderful mother/grandmother. A very special thank you to Dr. Randy Holloway for guiding Mom’s care for many years, and going above and beyond as always. To the staff of the Leamington Mennonite Home, words cannot express how much we appreciated all of you. Each of you touched her in a special way, with laughter, hugs and prayers. Your love for her never went unnoticed. Thank you to all that visited, sent food, flowers, cards, emails and made generous donations. Thanks to the First Baptist Church committee who provided the luncheon. Pastor Mike Sealy, you knew as we did she wanted to go to be with the Lord, her husband and daughter. To Craig Baker and Reid Funeral Home, your compassion and professionalism helped ease the pain of our loss.

Mom is where she so longed to be, we will miss and love her always.

The Ascott Family

Canadian CrissCross

SPONSORED BY

Grandparents and grandchildren: a push for reform

By Bill Chaplin, Municipal Correspondent

A Leamington resident has brought Bill 22, an Act to Amend the Children’s Law Reform Act, to the attention of Leamington Municipal Council, asking that they extend their support for the Bill to the Ontario Government.

Bill 22 is a private member’s bill that was introduced in the Ontario Legislature in 2010. It is really quite simple: it “requires parents and others with custody of children to refrain from unreasonably placing obstacles to

CARD OF THANKS

The family of the late Edith Duff would like to express our sincerest gratitude for all the kindness & support expressed during Edith’s recent passing. Thank you for all the visits, phone calls, emails, floral arrangements, food, charitable donations & cards. A special thanks to Rev. Scott McAndless, Dr. Haddad & staff of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Dr. Horen & staff of Leamington District Memorial Hospital. Also a special thank you to the pallbearers & staff of Reid Funeral Home.

Carolyn,Barbara & Douglas Roadhouse, Lynn,Paul,Krystin & Ryan Smith

personal relations between the children and their grandparents.” What is more, “Subsection 24 (2) of the [Children’s Law Reform] Act contains a list of matters that a court must consider when determining the best interests of a child. The Bill amends that subsection to include a specific reference to the importance of maintaining emotional ties between children and grandparents and the willingness of each person applying for custody to facilitate as much contact with each parent and grandparent as is consistent

IN MEMORIAM

In loving memory of a dear husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, who passed away 13 years ago March 28, 1998. His thoughts were so full of us He never could forget, And so we think that where he is He must be watching yet, As angels keep their watch up there Please, God let him know, That we down here do not forget We love and miss him so. Still loved, still missed. Love Vi, daughters Lynn, Barb, Judy & families.

In Memoriam

This is your picture I hold in my hand

Your smile, your dreams, your love of animals Amind full of future plans in a magical place

This is your picture I hold in my hand

As tears sneak up on me and flow

You were a boy, a very sweet enchanted boy

You became a man who loved To sing, to dance, to cook, to write You were a boy, a man who loved To garden, cultivate, make new friends Treasure old by lighting candles, celebrating life

This is your picture I hold in my head I see you lighting stars instead of candles

Dancing on clouds, flying here and there Making new friends, revisiting old

Finally meeting Him, “Dolphin” (as you called Him) Jumping clouds, landing triples, sliding down rainbows Mending gowns, replacing feathers, healing hearts Singing with the greatest choir of all This is your picture I hold in my heart

Believing you love and are loved “There was a boy, a very sweet enchanted boy”

Mom

Maeve Omstead-Johnston In Memory of Fred Omstead March 26, 1962 - June 18, 2004

We all miss you so very much, Fred

with the best interests of the child. Subsection 24 (2.1) of the Act requires the court to give effect to the principle that a child should have as much contact with each parent and grandparent as is consistent with the best interests of the child.”

Sounds simple, doesn’t it?

The problem arises in cases of death, divorce and remarriage when one parent is awarded custody of a child or children of the marriage and may wish to completely sever ties with the former spouse’s parents. As the law now stands, those grandparents have no right to insist on contact with their grandchild (or grandchildren) to extend their love and attachment—the custodial parent can be as arbitrary as he or she wishes in blocking contact.

So what’s the problem?

Hopefully, none. But this is the fourth time this matter has been brought to the Ontario Government. Three times it was allowed to die. This time, it passed second reading unanimously, but is now being ‘studied’ by the standing committee on social justice and could be allowed to languish there by the party in power unless there is clear, vocal support for it.

That is why six Ontario cities (including Windsor) have already written their support for this bill. Numerous towns have also indicated support, and, as of Monday night, so has Leamington. A motion of support was made by Councillor John Jacobs, was seconded by Councillor Chris Chopchik, and was passed unanimously by municipal council.

OBITUARY

Lydia Henke

Lydia Henke (Jantz), 82 years, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Monday, March 14, 2011 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital.

Dear and devoted wife of Reinhardt for 58 years. Loving mother of Harry (Kathy), Amherstburg; Hedy Henke (Alden Warner), Kingsville; Walter (Lynda Ryall-Henke), London. Beloved Oma of Jesse, Aron (Nicole), Jordan (Courtney Cail), Sarah, Jacob, Daniel. Dear sister of Martha Jahnke (late Ludwig). Predeceased by her brother Walter Jantz and late wife Martha. Lydia will be dearly missed by her sisters and their extended families in Germany.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631), on Thursday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

Funeral service to celebrate Lydia’s life was held from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 311 Sherk Street, Leamington, on Friday, March 18, 2011 at 11 a.m. Interment at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made by cheque to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Leamington.

Family and friends are invited to share their words of comfort and remembrance at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.

OBITUARY

Wray Sherman

Wray Watson Sherman, 87 years, passed away on Friday, March 18, 2011 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital.

Dear father to Mike and his wife Deanna. Loving grandfather of Marc (Carolyn), Michael and Melissa Sherman-Knizat (Fred). Great-grandfather to Matthew Sherman. Predeceased by parents Jesse and Millie Sherman, brothers Jesse (Bud) and Bob, and sisters Mildred Gilboe, Miriam English, Margaret MacDonald, Melba Sharp, and Myrna Murrell. Wray will be remembered by many nieces and nephews, and Cameron and Jenna Jacobs.

Cremation has taken place. A private service with interment at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made by contacting the Hammond Funeral Home 318 Erie Street South, Leamington (519-326-8423). www.hammondfuneralhome.ca

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