Southpoint Sun March 24, 2010

Flyers rebuilding from the top down

By Fred Groves

The dust has settled and it’s time to pick up the pieces.

Following a season that saw them win just seven games, and make a quick exit in the GOJHL playoffs, the Leamington Junior ‘B’ Flyers are ready to regroup.

Starting at the top, the club has done a dramatic switch as it has gone from being a community-owned team, that dates back to 1980 when the Leamington Flyers Hockey Association was formed, to now being owned by a group of local businessmen.

On Friday, coowner Abe Fehr announced that Tony Piroski is the new head coach replacing Greg Trojand and Wheatley’s Pete Anthony is the new GM in place of Barrie MacDonald.

“We felt we needed to start with a clean slate and bring in people with credibility,” said Fehr, the president of Uni-Fab.

Piroski has coached the Essex 73’s of the Great Lakes Junior ‘C’ Hockey League the past nine seasons. In that time he has guided the 73’s to seven league titles and three provincial championships.

“We felt his success will be a drawing card and help improve our team,” said Fehr.

Anthony, who was the Flyers’ GM two seasons ago, is also a scout for an OHL team and has a successful track record of managing the Wheatley Junior ‘C’ Sharks.

“We have to find players. They (Flyers) won seven games. There will be a turnover. Pete will shake the bushes. He will do most of the recruiting and get the players here,” said Piroski.

After his tenure in Essex, Piroski, a former professional goalie and coach with the Toledo Goaldiggers of the International Hockey League, says he left Essex on good terms. He brought with him his long-time assistant coach Jamie McDermott.

“We want to be a competitive team, seven wins is not competitive,” said Piroski.

The dates for the Flyers training camp have not been announced, but when it begins the new coach says he will select the 20 best players regardless of where they live. “I am flattered and honored that these gentlemen thought I was the one to help with this organization.”

For Fehr, buying the Flyers was something he has been waiting for for quite a while and admitted on Friday that at one time he had contemplated buying the Sharks..

“It’s a day I have been looking forward to for a while. I’ve been a fan of the Flyers since I moved here in 1976.”

He acknowledged former owner Fred Epplett who started the team in 1960, and noted, “It’s people like this who allow us to enjoy hockey in Leamington.”

Fehr added that he looks forward to working with the many Flyers’ volunteers, the town, and the businesses.

March Break Fishing Fun

With temperatures reaching as high as 17º Celcius, many local children who did not go south for March Break enjoyed many outdoor activities right here in Leamington. Pictured here, from left to right showing off their perch are, Jasmine, Vanessa and Riley Andrade who were fishing at Leamington Marina with parents Helen and Vic Andrade. Bicycles, rollerblades, skateboards and street hockey games could be found around town.

(Sun Photo)

Green Cheer at Gilligan’s Page 15

45th IODE Antique Show & Sale Page 18

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

This WeekLast Week ArtistSong Title 11LadyAntebellumNeed You Now 23LifehouseHalfway Gone 35Kris AllenLive Like You Were Dying

44John MayerHeartbreak Warfare

53Train Hey Soul Sister

67OrianthiAccording To You

76DaughtryLife After You

88Michael BubleHaven’t Met You Yet 910The ScriptBreakeven 109Lady GagaBad Romance 1111ShinedownIf You Only Knew 1213Barenaked LadiesYou Run Away 1314LaurellCan’t Stop Falling 1415One RepublicAll the Right Moves 1517K NaanWaving Flag 1612KeshaTik Tok 1716Rob ThomasSomeday 1823Colbie CaillatI Never Told You 1920HedleyPerfect 2018NickelbackNever Gonna Be Alone

Win your tickets to Tony & Tina’s Wedding, April 2nd at Caesars Windsor all this week during Mix Middays with Keri!

Listen Sunday at 2 pm & 8 pm for this week’s hottest songs in Country Music!

This Week Last Week Artist Song Title 12 Blake Shelton & Trace Adkins

Goodfellows receive donation

Allegro, on behalf of Kingsville Court, Leamington Court and Royal Marquis made a cheque presentation last week to the Goodfellows of Kingsville, Leamington and Windsor. Each Goodfellow group received $650 from the Allegro sponsorship in December as part of the branding and awareness of the three retirement homes. Pictured here, from left to right, are Cathie McCormick, Director of Care, Kingsville Court, Don Nicholson, Leamington Goodfellows, Bill Allsop, Kingsville Goodfellows, Nicole Parkinson, Assistant Leasing Manager, Andy Padmos, Kingsville Goodfellows, and Anne Marie Millette, Leasing Manager. The Goodfellows’ community work includes the Hamper Program, which delivers food and necessities at Christmas. Last year the Kingsville Goodfellows handed out approximately 150 hampers. In Leamington the Goodfellows also deliver baskets of food. Last year 216 families received 830 baskets. The Goodfellows are active all year round supporting the Food Bank and helping with special holidays throughout the year. Allegro residences hold monthly events where donations are collected and always given to a charity.

Real Canadian Superstore one of six solar projects approved by province

Six solar power projects are now approved in Leamington and Chatham-Kent, announced MPP Pat Hoy, as part of Ontario’s landmark Green Energy Plan.

“The future will be brighter for many businesses in Ontario as 510 new green energy projects, most of them solar power installations, were approved today, including six local ones,” said Hoy. “These projects bring the benefits of Ontario’s Feed-in Tariff program home to us right here.”

“Ontario’s electricity future will be spurred by initiatives like these that capture the rays of the sun, the force of wind, water and of renewable gases to light our homes and power our businesses. Everyone in Chatham-Kent-Essex should take pride in these developments and look forward to those still to come.”

and commercial operations,” said Brad Duguid, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure. “These projects will create a new source of income while providing new clean and green electricity in Ontario – particularly on hot, sunny summer days

Hoy revealed the local projects approved:

• Real Canadian Superstore, Leamington: 250kw.

• No Frills, Blenheim: 100kw.

• Real Canadian Superstore, Chatham: 250kw.

• Tatro Properties, at 281 Grand Ave. East (50kw), 203 Keil Drive (30kw), 750 Richmond Street (250kw), Chatham.

Hoy said the local projects are part of the province-wide 510 to get contracts through Ontario’s landmark Feed-In Tariff (FIT) program, the most comprehensive of its kind in North America. FIT encourages the development of renewable energy projects from a diverse range of producers, including homeowners, schools, farmers, large retailers and small businesses, by offering long-term, stable prices for the electricity generated.

“Everybody is participating, from everywhere in Ontario, from farmers, schools and hospitals to large scale retail

when demand soars. With our new domestic content rules, these projects will also help create new ‘green collar’ jobs here in Ontario, as well as major economic investments in equipment and services here at home.”

“The Feed-in Tariff program’s domestic content requirements ensure that a key portion of the technology used for renewable energy generation comes from Ontario,” said Hoy. “Developers must meet a certain percentage of madein Ontario goods and labour at the time the project reaches commercial operation. For solar photovoltaic projects larger than 10 kilowatts, the requirement is 50 per cent today, which will increase to 60 per cent on Jan. 1, 2011.”

The FIT program, one of the cornerstones of Ontario’s Green Energy Act, provides stable, guaranteed pricing to renewable energy producers. It supports the province’s commitment to eliminate dirty coal-fired generation by the end of 2014 — the single largest climate change initiative in Canada. FIT and other initiatives under the Green Energy Act will support the creation of 50,000 “green collar” jobs.

(Sun Photo)

Paying It Forward “because it’s cool”

By Sheila McBrayne

Patrick Strong has amassed many professional accomplishments in his 34-year career as a denturist, inventor and entrepreneur, but his latest innovative device is a work of humanitarianism.

Patrick, founder and owner of Strong Denture & Snoring Sleep Apnea Clinic and Strong Dental in Leamington, is a world-renowned Denturist Specialist and a Master Technician. Patrick has used his experience and innovative skills to invent and patent the SUAD (Strong Upper Airway Dilating) Device, the Morning Repositioner and his most recent innovation, which has dental practitioners worldwide taking interest, the TSA (Temporary SUAD Appliance).

But what has Patrick’s attention these days is a project that he was asked to take a look at and evaluate at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). Engineering students are working on a tongue-driven system for quadriplegics. The engineering students have developed a headpiece that is fitted on the quadriplegic and then a magnet is glued to their tongue. With the simple movement of their tongue, the quadriplegic can control a computer and more important control the movement of their wheelchair, giving them mobility and freedom. The disadvantage of this setup is that the headpiece has to be fitted to the person and calibrated every time, and the magnet has to be reglued every three hours. Enter Patrick Strong.

Wanting to eliminate the tedious calibration, the students asked Patrick – “Can we put this into a dental appliance?” His answer: “Why not?” Patrick has been busy “experimenting” with five different models to hermetically seal the electronic components into the appliance. “We’re putting the five models through an accelerated process to mimic three years of use in three months… So far, all five are holding up,” said Patrick.

When the final product is ready, he plans to take a mould from the professor’s mouth to test the finished product. At Georgia Tech funding for such research is always a consideration. When the professor asked how much Patrick’s assistance to the project was going to cost, his reply was, “I like rum.” To which the professors and students wanted to know what he meant. His response was, “I’ll do this, I’ll design the appliance, test the materials, fly down here to see how it works, and you guys take me out to dinner and buy me a drink.”

Why would Patrick do all this at his own cost? “Because it’s cool. What they are doing is so cool and because I’m the president and CEO, I can do what I want,” said Strong. When he is done, he intends to hand over any rights to the appliance to Georgia Tech. “I also have a personal interest. My brother Michael’s background is working with ALS patients. In the final stages of ALS they’re robbed of their mobility. If this gives them another six months of independence, it doesn’t matter what it costs. It’s cool and I have the ability to do it,” said Patrick.

But why is Patrick “really” doing this? When Patrick was first starting out, he wasn’t sure what kind of parts he would need to fabricate The SUAD™ Device. He went to tool and die makers and none of them were helpful, especially the ones in Canada for some reason.

They would ask him how many parts he would need and because it was a new invention, he had no idea. Rather than helping him figure it out, their biggest concern was what was in it for them and their business. Then Patrick met a guy named Arch McCartney at Bowden Manufacturing in Willoughby, Ohio. Arch basically took Patrick by the hand and showed him around his shop as though Patrick was his long-lost son. He then asked Patrick what he needed. When Patrick told Arch that he didn’t know how many parts he would require, Arch told him that it was no problem, he would produce 25 parts to start testing. He said that if those didn’t work, to let him know and then they’d test out another 25.

Arch wasn’t in it for quantity - he was in it to see Patrick succeed. He kept on working with Patrick until Patrick

was set with the exact type of parts he needed and then he watched Patrick’s business grow. One day, when Patrick tried to place an order for more parts, his order was refused and was told he had to speak with Arch directly. Arch told Patrick that as soon as they got off the phone, he was faxing him a list of all the suppliers he used to produce the parts and told Patrick that he is now ready to deal direct with them and no longer use Arch as a middleman. Arch had taken the time to contact all the suppliers and told Patrick that they were expecting his phone call.

“When I asked Arch why he did that for me, he said, ‘that’s the way I do things… Because when you came in here, I liked what you were doing. It was cool. And, I own the place, so I can do what I want’,” he said.

“All he asked for in return was that someday I do the same for somebody else,” said Patrick. Enter Georgia Tech.

Pay It Forward Day is celebrated on different dates throughout the world, and Patrick Strong has already done his good deed for the year. “I’ll never get rich doing this, but I’m rich in the ability to do what I can do,” concluded Patrick.

March is the time of year when marijuana growers are germinating their seedlings through the use of indoor hydroponics. By getting a head start, the plants will be a good size to transplant outside in the upcoming months.

Remember to keep an eye open for the signs of inside grows. Generally, the room dedicated to the grow will have windows blocked out, and there will be a skunk-like odour that doesn’t seem to go away.

If you have any information on grows like this and want to report it anonymously, or if you have any information regarding this crime or any other crime, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

You can now visit www.crime-stoppers.ca and send your tip through an e-mail message.

Local pepper growers hear about anti-dumping investigation on Dutch bell peppers initiated by CBSA

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has initiated an anti-dumping investigation with respect to low-priced Dutch sweet bell peppers being sold into the Canadian market. This investigation is taking place due to a complaint of injurious dumping, filed by the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG).

“We are very pleased that the CBSA is proceeding with this action,” said Len Roozen, Chair of the OGVG. “The continued dumping of Dutch peppers in Canada has severely eroded market returns to Canadian pepper growers, threatening their survival. We expect that this investigation will confirm that dumping of product has occurred and allow for the imposition of anti-dumping measures.”

The OGVG had requested that the CBSA investigate the unfair pricing of greenhouse sweet bell peppers imports from the Netherlands. For the last few years, Dutch exporters have been selling sweet bell peppers into Canada at very low prices that are below their costs of production, causing serious injury to Ontario growers. The OGVG’s concerns are shared by greenhouse producers in other provinces.

Canada’s Special Import Measures Act permits Canadian producers to seek the imposition of anti-dumping measures when they are injured by foreign producers selling into Canada below the selling prices in their own country, or below their costs of production.

Over the last ten years, Canadian growers have made substantial investments in greenhouse technology in order to expand the availability of Canadian grown vegetables, including sweet bell peppers. The Ontario greenhouse sector is now the largest cluster in North America, producing over 1824 acres of tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers.

Area greenhouse pepper growers met at the Marketing Board on Tuesday, March 23 for an update on the investigation.

Patrick Strong

THURSDAY, MARCH 25:

Listen to Country 92.7 CJSP for more events happening in Leamington and Essex County during the Community Calendar 6 times daily or visit www.country927.com for a complete listing

The Friends of Mill & Wigle Creeks present the Earth Friendly Fair 2010, at Lakeside Park Pavilion, 315 Queen St., Kingsville, from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. This is an opportunity for local residents to learn about the effects of chemicals on our environment, and to learn about the wide variety of natural and earth friendly alternatives for personal health, the home and garden. The event will include exhibits, vendors, and displays. Free of charge and open to the public.

Alpha Course Dinner, Video and Discussion, exploring the meaning of Christian Faith. 6:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at Meadow Brook Fellowship, 219 Talbot St. E., Leamington. Register by calling Church office at 519326-3605.

Prime Rib Dinner at Church of St. John the Evangelist, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington, at 6:00 p.m. $25 per person. Door prizes. Tickets available from the Parish Office - 519-326-3111, or by calling 519-326-4042.

FRIDAY, MARCH 26:

South Essex Community Council presents: Connexions for Success 2010 - an Employment and Education Information Fair, from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, 249 Sherk St., Leamington. Free admission. Presentations by: Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, Canadian Mental Health Association, Job Connect Program and Employment Edge, and others. Resume analysis, hourly giveaways, refreshments, presentations. For more information, call 519-326-8629.

Southern Trinity Parish invites you to Lenten Lunch at St. Andrews, 210 King St. E., Harrow from 11:00 a.m.1:30 p.m. Eat in or take out. Love offerings accepted. For more information, call 519-738-4362.

SATURDAY, MARCH 27:

Ruthven Apple Festival Mini-Golf Tournament from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Colasanti's in Ruthven. Enjoy 18 holes of mini-golf, food, prizes. Only $20 per person. Call 519-776-6483, ext 246. All proceeds to Community Living Essex County in support of people with intellectual disabilities.

Roast Beef Dinner at Trinity United Church, New California, 1005 Road 2 West, Kingsville, 4:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Advance tickets only. Adults $12.50, Children $6.25. Please call Fran 519-733-2590.

Leamington Kinsmen & Kinettes 25th Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 10:00 a.m. at Seacliff Park, Leamington for pre-schoolers to grade 4. Prizes and fun for all. Raise-a-Reader Book Sale, held at Windsor Crossing, 1555 Talbot Road, LaSalle, from 9 am - 6 pm. The Book Sale is proudly supported by past local Raise-a-Reader beneficiaries Book of My Own and Windsor Public Library.

Easter Bazaar at Essex Retirees Social Club - 32 Russell St. in Essex from 9am to 2pm. Crafts, baked goods, raffles, white elephant sale and lunch. Also, Antique Appraisals by Maureen Wickham from 9am to noon. Appraisal cost $5 per item. And also, cash for your old silver and gold from 10am to noon. Alicensed specialist will make you an offer for your old broken necklaces, lone earrings etc. For more info or to book an appointment for an antique appraisal, call 776-6689

SUNDAY, MARCH 28:

Harrow Rotary Club Fellowship Pancake Breakfast at K of C Hall, King St., Harrow, from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. $8 for adults, $3 for children under 12.

The John Brazil Squire Circle and the 4th Degree Knights will host an Easter Turkey Basket Bingo at Knights of Columbus Hall in McGregor. Doors open at 5:30 pm and the bingo starts at 7:00pm. There will be 15 rounds and 3 special rounds. Door prizes and concessions available. $5 admission. Lic #597688. "Rock On" shirts and "Rock On Kingsville" shirts for sale from 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Kingsville Lions Hall, 23 Mill St. W., during a pancake breakfast. Proceeds from this event will benefit Easter Seals.

Raise-a-Reader Book Sale, held at Windsor Crossing, 1555 Talbot Road, LaSalle, from noon - 5 pm. The Book

Sale is proudly supported by past local Raise-a-Reader beneficiaries Book of My Own and Windsor Public Library.

The Visitation Parish is hosting a Lenten Card Party today at 7pm. There'll be food and prizes. Admission is $3 at Visitation Parish Hall, 5407 Comber Side Road. For more info call 519-798-3088.

Lions Club of Kingsville presents a Sausage and Pancake Breakfast, 8:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Lions Community Hall, Mill St., Kingsville. Beverage and juice included. $5 for adults, $2 for children 6-10, children 5 and under are free. Proceeds to the Easter Seal Society.

MONDAY, MARCH 29:

Toddlertime at Leamington Library at 10:30 a.m. For ages 19 months - 2 years old and caregiver. Register at the library.

TUESDAY, MARCH 30:

Gospel Express from North Carolina is coming to Full Gospel Church, 285 Talbot Rd E., Leamington at 7:00 p.m. No admission, free will offering. For more information call Arno Friesen at 519-322-5788.

SATURDAY, MARCH 27:

Leamington-Mersea Historical Society. Bring your lunch and join us for our monthly meeting at the museum, 121 Essex Rd 14, Albuna.

SUNDAY, MARCH 28:

Sunparlour Bluegrass invited Bluegrass Pickers & Listeners to the Comber Legion on Sunday, March 28 from 2 - 5 pm. An Afternoon of Bluegrass Music with performances by groups of local bluegrass pickers.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31:

Annual Meeting of the Essex County Farm Safety Association, followed by a regular meeting. Those interested are welcome to attend. The meeting will start at 7 pm in the cafeteria of the Essex Civic Centre. Women and men surviving or living with breast cancer have potential to do great things! Meet new people, keep fit and enjoy life to the fullest participating in dragon boat racing. Wonder Broads of Windsor-Essex County are hosting an information session Wednesday, March 31st 7-9 pm at Lill Kazilly's, 9550 Riverside Drive East, Windsor. Please RSVPto Carole (519)733-8149 or Donna (519)256-9351 by Monday, March 29th. Bring a friend.

SUNDAY, APRIL4:

Easter Dinner for those who are alone or will go without, at 4 pm, St. John’s Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Call to register by April 1st, 519-326-3111. No charge. Meals delivered to shut-ins. Rides provided.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL7:

1:30 - 3:00 pm regular monthly meeting of the Wheatley and District Friendship Club.

Come and support the Wonder Broads Dragon Boat Team of Windsor & Essex County in their endeavours to promote breast cancer awareness. Apasta fest is to be held at the Fogolar Club from 5-7:30 pm. Adults $12, children 5-12 yrs $7, four and under free. For info call 519-969-2584.

SATURDAY, APRIL17:

Annual Comedy Night & Dinner Fundraiser will be held at the Rhine Danube Club. Doors open at 6; Dinner at 7; Show at 9. Tickets $40.00. All proceeds will go to Sun County Crows Lacrosse. Call today to reserve your tickets 519-326-5507.

The Essex County Purple Martin association will meet at 1963 County Rd 42 (just before Woodlands Golf Course & Hwy 401) in Woodslee at 9 am. All are welcome. Refreshments. For more into please call 519-776-5777.

Leamington-Mersea Historical Society 1950’s/’60’s/’70’s Sock Hop Fundraiser for the Restoration of the Michigan Central Railway Station, MCR Dr., Leamington, Saturday, April 17, 7:30 – 11:30 pm, Kinsmen Complex. For tickets call Bill Sherk 322-1551 or Scott Holland 326-0533. Cost: $10 per person.

Leamington Council Shorts

from Monday, March 8, 2010

By Bill Chaplin, Municipal Correspondent

Abandoning drains

When rural drains are no longer needed or have been replaced during the course of development by storm sewers the Municipality can abandon them, thereby removing any responsibility for them in the future. That is exactly what Council did at Monday night’s session. Four drains were abandoned: the Sinisac drain north of County Road 33 that is no longer needed, and the Robson St. Drain and the Roach drain, both of which were by Robson Road and both of which no longer exist, were completely abandoned, while the golf course property was removed as a benefiting property from the assessment of the Dick drain.

Gas Tax Agreement

In order to continue to receive over $1.4 million in gas tax revenue council voted to extend an agreement with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario for four more years. In what seems to be an odd sort of arrangement, the federal government has an agreement with the Association for sharing gas tax revenue. The Association in turn has agreements with individual municipalities to turn over that money to them. In addition, the County shares its portion of the gas tax revenue with its member municipalities through another agreement. This money does come with restrictions on what it can be spent on. For instance, much of the money this year will be going into the East Side Arterial Road.

Local

water testing supported

Council was unanimous in supporting a letter received from LaSalle regarding local testing of water samples. John Tofflemire, Director of Community Services, pointed out to Council that whenever the Health Unit issues a Boil Water Advisory, the time it takes to get samples tested and the results reported is critical to how long the advisory must stay in force. If the Union Water System has to send samples to London to be tested instead of having them done in Windsor, days can be added to the inconvenience experienced by local ratepayers. Council hopes its support will help convince the Province not to close the local Public Health Lab to water testing.

Training for all commissioners

As an item of business arising out of the March 1st Council meeting, Mayor Adams informed Council that he had been contacted by a couple of the drainage commissioners asking to be exempted from health and safety training for their work at the pumping stations. The town solicitor, Brian Sweet, explained that the Municipality is the owner of the pumping stations and is liable if something happens. Moreover, if the Ministry of Labour decides to lay charges or fines because someone was not properly trained, the charges are laid personally, not on the municipality, but on the mayor and members of Council who failed in their duty of oversight. Council voted to re-affirm that all commissioners must complete the training that is basic and costs nothing.

Burned-out street lights

Councillor Hilda MacDonald raised the issue of burnedout street lights as an item of new business. She told Council that she had been contacted about a street light that had been out for nine days. Before coming to the Council meeting she checked with the resident and was told that it was now 14 days that the light had not worked. Her position was that we need to set a standard of service that we expect from Essex Power.

Director of Community Services, John Tofflemire pointed out that Leamington monitors the service but doesn’t administer it. The town relies on local residents to report burnt-out lights. He indicated that his department was aware of twenty non-functioning lights: eight that had been reported in the past week, nine that were two weeks old, and three that were longer than that. Five of the lights are ‘special order’ items. He pointed out that last year $85,000 was budgeted for street light repair and that was overspent by $10,000. Since the concern is a level of service concern, he assured Council that it could be addressed, but that it would cost more money.

Councillor Rick Atkin emphasized that if we expect ratepayers to report defective lights, we have an obligation to ensure that the problems are looked after in a timely manner. After discussion by Council, administration was directed to bring information to the budget deliberations about what maintenance costs per light, what the experience of Amherstburg has been contracting out service to the private sector, and what increased costs would be associated with better service from Essex Power.

A Step Towards Freedom in Leamington

By Sheila McBrayne

George Hirschler has been helping people overcome their addictions for more than 10 years and his journey began at home.

Hirschler, a Certified Addiction Counselor and owner of A Step Towards Freedom, has been there himself. After fighting his addiction and becoming clean and free of drugs and alcohol , he wanted to help others do the same. He has been free of drugs and alcohol for 18 years.

Hirschler, originally from the Niagara area, attended Niagara College for Chemical Dependency Counseling Courses and is now a member of the Canadian Society of Counselors and Therapists under federal charter.

Hirschler has worked in treatment centres such as Holton Recovery House, St. Leonard’s Society of Canada working with federal inmates, and started his own clinic called Ray of Hope.

Hirschler was in Leamington for an event in 2008 and found there was a need for his services in this area. He opened an office, A Step Towards Freedom, at Leamington Lodge, 24 Russell Street, in October 2009. “People come to me through various channels – company referrals, private agencies and those who have asked for help,” he said.

Hirschler’s approach is a 12-week customized program for addicts and families of addicts. Addiction programs include drugs, alcohol or gambling. “I’m finding more so now, it’s the combination of drugs and alcohol and sometimes all three,” said Hirschler. The counselor works on a sliding fee scale, which means his clients pay according to their income. And although the program is structured for 12 weeks, some require more time. “It’s all specific to the client’s needs,” he said.

“We do a lot of house calls for those who don’t want to be seen walking into our office and some people are more

comfortable in their homes,” he added.

“There’s a big Oxycontin and crack epidemic in Leamington. That’s what they’re geared towards here,” said Hirschler.

Hirschler works with the Harm Deduction model which slowly weans the addict from their vice.

“For example, if he drinks 15 beers a day, we would bring that down to 10, then 5 a day, 2, 1 and the ultimate goal is abstinence,” said Hirschler.

“There are several different treatment approaches to reach the same goal, which is complete abstinence,” he said. The program is based on forgiveness and awareness –awareness of the problems and symptoms of the problems. “Their character is affected through their addictive behaviours,” said Hirschler.

For more information on A Step Towards Freedom, call 519-818-7878 or stop by at Leamington Lodge. “Making the first step is often the hardest, it gets easier and we can help free you from your addictions,” he said.

Lovering - Melissa and Lloyd Lovering of Leamington, a girl on March 11, 2010. Zaragoza - Esli Zaragoza and Sergio Vazquez of Leamington, a girl on March 11, 2010.

Augustine - Mr. & Mrs. Clifton Augustine of Leamington, a boy on March 12, 2010.

There

Kingsville Court Retirement Residence on behalf of their Director of Care Cathie McCormick and their house doctor Dr. Kelton, decided to open up a walk-in clinic for any lab need. This will take place every Thursday from 8-12 noon, beginning Thursday, April 1.

Kingsville Court staff have received all the needed supplies from Windsor Medical Lab and a well trained attendant is on site. There will also be refreshments and goodies. There is plenty of free parking and no waiting lines. For more information, please call Kingsville Court Retirement Residence at 519-733-6558.

George Hirschler

Short skirts not Canadian?

Did you happen to watch the closing ceremonies of the 2010 Olympics? (I know it followed what is to be one of the most memorable Canadian hockey games of all time, but hopefully you stayed tuned to see a wonderful spectacle of Canadian pride!) So, okay while watching the ceremonies how many people were “offended” or thought any less of the RCMP because Michael Bublé’s backup singers were wearing short skirts dressed to look like RCMP officers? Let’s see, there were blow-up Mounties, Beavers and Moose about three storey’s high that looked like they blew in from Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, I think it was quite clear that we were laughing at ourselves, at least at all the stereotypes that the world perceives of Canada.

At issue was a production number featuring Canadian crooner Michael Bublé singing a jazz version of The Maple Leaf Forever while accompanied by a group of female dancers dressed as RCMP officers in red mini-skirt outfits that could not be described as “regulation.”

Apparently members of the RCMP thought it was disrespectful to the female RCMP officers and women in general. “The RCMP core value of respect includes the respectful representation of female members,” stated Bud Mercer, Assistant Commissioner. “The RCMP does not condone any behaviour ... that could possibly be perceived as demeaning.” I can’t wait to hear what Rick Mercer has to say about all this….

I thought it was very Canadian to have so many Mountie references and presences during the entire Olympics. Since when did Canada become so “uptight”? Short skirts? That’s what someone in the RCMP chooses to focus on? Forget that millions of people watched Canadian pride unfold on one of the biggest stages in the world. Forget that Canada set new records for attendance, viewers, and not to mention gold medals! I don’t think anyone was paying that much attention to the backup singers in short red skirts when the stage was filled with what looked like the largest concentration of every Canadian stereotype known to mankind. And it was funny. It is important that we as a country take pride in those things that make us truly CANADIAN!

If the Mounties can’t laugh about this, maybe they need to look in the mirror. I’m just guessing, but I bet many female officers have an opinion on those pants they ask the Mounties to wear as part of that dress uniform. I love the Mounties and I love their uniforms and I don’t think anything says Canada like the Mounties. Brave, proud, dedicated, historical, ceremonial – “the Mounties always get their man”. I like that they have funny pants, wide-brimmed hats and that they are stone-faced serious about it. I love that a Mountie would be recognized as part of Canada in Germany, The Netherlands, Japan – anywhere in the world, but more so I love that as Canadians we can laugh at ourselves as well as anyone else in the world!

The healing of a nation… maybe

I have always had a strong and largely favourable opinion of the “exciting states” of America. Given the choice of living here or there, I’d stay put north of the border; it hands down here and for a litany of reasons. Still I’m often envious of their infectious patriotic style. Stars and Stripes on bumper stickers, front lawns, T-shirts, cop cars, and clearly tattooed on the heart of most of U.S. citizens it seems. Their big sporting events feature honour guards, M-16 flyovers, gun salutes, etc. “Oh say” is there a more vivid, violent, war-loving, complex and oft-butchered anthem than the Star Spangled Banner? Their tune makes ours look as thrilling as the Swan Ride at Wonderland.

Across the fruited plain and from 30,000 feet we can point to impressive mega cities, the tallest of buildings, rampant consumerism, big homes, SUVs, and enough swagger to fill Duke’s boots. The collective ego could barely fit inside the Grand Canyon.

Of course, upon closer inspection, there’s as much to chagrin as grin at. No question, there’s a lot of work to be done in the U.S. Their collective excess and unbridled indulgence

is finally catching up with them in a few corners, including economically. The country is in debt up to its eyeballs and on all fronts: cities going broke, corporations boarding up the windows, and just down the street and around the block, individuals, many with maxed out credit cards and mortgaged to the hilt. Too many are absolute slaves to debt. The U.S.’s friendly banker is China, and the chit note is getting a lot of zeros on it. It’s a frightening scenario.

If they only would’ve listened to that boring little farmer from Georgia, who warned all citizens and stakeholders that the United States was pumping the handcart to hell. President Jimmy Carter addressed the nation 30 years ago with a thoughtful, sincere message that expressed his concern for the path his country was on. It was a lengthy speech, but here is an excerpt from that address that I think you’ll find quite interesting, prophetic actually:

“In a nation that was proud of hard work, strong families, close-knit communities, and our faith in God, too many of us now tend to worship self-indulgence and consumption. Human identity is no longer defined by what one does, but

by what one owns. But we’ve discovered that owning things and consuming things does not satisfy our longing for meaning. We’ve learned that piling up material goods cannot fill the emptiness of lives which have no confidence or purpose.”

It wasn’t what the American public wanted to hear, and most certainly not what the power brokers (who shape public opinion) wanted said. On top of his administration’s misfortune with the Iranian hostage situation, the overwhelming voters of the day couldn’t wait to broom their wimpy leader out of office. America has a shot at self-healing, an opportunity to right some wrongs in the coming days. It won’t solve their debt directly, but for those of lesser means it’s a very big deal.

(Continued on Page 7)

Editor Sheila McBrayne Office Manager Jan Watson

Graphic Designer Nick Cervini

Editorial Assistant Allison Siddall

S Soouutthhppooiinnt t S Saayyss. . ....

In 2006, MoneySense magazine listed Leamington, Ontario as the #1 place to live in Canada. Do you believe that is true today and why?

Location: Kinsmen Recreation Complex

Jacqueline Bertrand-McCallum

“I think so, yes. I’m obviously retired and I just find everything convenient. We moved here because of the marina. I lived in St. Catharines, but it’s so busy there; it’s more peaceful here.”

Lorne Turner

“Yes, I came here in 2007 - moved here from north Vancouver Island. The climate is good, the southern point of Canada. It’s only 3 or 4 degrees colder here in the winter, but there’s so much sunshine, lots of sunshine.”

Dr. D.R. Knight-Messenger “No, that’s why I left 20 years ago. I moved to Kingsville. I lived by the high school and there was too much vandalism, garbage and rowdiness on the street. We had young kids, so we moved... I do like using the Sherk Complex though.”

Abe Berg “I think it’s still true. It’s the same today as it was then, except maybe for the recent suspicious deaths in Leamington, but crime is very low besides that. Our winters are great. I’ve lived here all my life and I like it.”

The healing of a nation… maybe

(Continued from Page 6)

Barack Obama and his team are attempting to follow through on their election promise to bring Healthcare Reform to the nation. It’s an opportunity for every citizen to have the right to receive medical and health coverage regardless of their ability to pay. Currently, over 30 million U.S. citizens lack any kind of health insurance. The majority of folks in that number are impoverished. It’s an expensive proposition for our neighbours, close to a trillion in fact. That’s something to think about… well, up until you think of their military spending history.

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

Southpoint Sun,

I love the Southpoint Sun – look forward to its coming every week. I read it from cover to cover. Interesting individual columns – so “up-close and personal”. Keep up the good work!

C. Desjardins

To Whom It May Concern,

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Southpoint Sun for its great coverage of Chilifest 2010. The pictures you featured looked great and you really gave our organization some excellent promotion. We value any media coverage we can get so that we can highlight our services to the community. SECC is looking forward to partnering with the Southpoint Sun in the future.

Thank you!

Carolyn Warkentin

Executve Director South Essex Community Council

Southpoint Sun, I really like your newspaper, which I found on my doorstep a few days ago and read for the first time. What is the frequency of publication and where can I find future issues?

Thank you, Liliane Dombrowski

Big business, big money and the powerful trough hog’ers are doing all they can to destroy the bill. Sharing their “hard-earned” loot with poor people… are you nuts? Spend money on the ne’er-do-wells of society? Care for the sick, the poor and hungry? Forget those “etched in concrete” pleasantries engraved on the Statue of Liberty

It seems ridiculous that we, as Canadians, would view health care entitlement any other way than what we’re accustomed to. Of course, we tend to those in need. Who wouldn’t tend to the sick and heal those in physical and emotional pain? After all, it’s the right thing to do, the Christian thing to do, and the only thing to do. Isn’t it?

Sadly, you have to look no further than across the lake to find plenty of folks that are shouting from the tops of their lungs “Kill the Bill!” Amazing isn’t it? There’s lots to love about our U.S. neighbours. Now, if only they could find a way to love themselves

and Taxes: Reid Funeral Home

Youth caught with marijuana, BB gun, pocket knife

On Monday, March 15 at approximately 3 a.m., Kingsville OPP conducted foot patrol through Lakeside Park in Kingsville. Police observed a lone male running through the park with a backpack on. Police located a 14-year-old male hiding underneath a pine tree. The male admitted to having marijuana, a BB gun, and a pocket knife in the backpack. The male was transported to the Kingsville OPP office where his mother was contacted and advised. The items were seized and the youth was cautioned.

15 sheds entered in Lakeshore

On Monday, March 15 at approximately 11 a.m., Lakeshore OPP responded to a break and enter in the 100 block of Juniper Cres., 10 block of Oak St., 60 block of Pine St., and the 40 block of Poplar St. in Lakeshore. Police advised that sometime between March 13 and March 15, 2010, 15 separate sheds were entered by unknown suspect(s). Police investigated and found that shed doors had been ripped off, or latches broken off. The OPP Forensic Identification Unit attended the scene and seized evidence for further investigation. The investigation is continuing and anyone with information is asked to contact Essex County OPP Criminal Investigation Unit at 519-723-2491 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Structure fire causes $250,000 damage in Essex

On Saturday, March 20 at approximately 3:30 a.m., Essex OPP responded to a structure fire in the 14000 block of Pinkerton Side Rd. When police arrived on scene, Essex Fire Search and Rescue were on scene and the building was fully engulfed. The damage is estimated at over $250,000 and foul play is not suspected.

Parked car damaged in Kingsville

On Saturday, March 20 at approximately 12 p.m., Kingsville OPP responded to a mischief on Mattawas Lane. Police advised that sometime overnight, an unknown suspect(s) damaged a locked parked vehicle. The passenger window was smashed, and both passenger tires were flattened. Police found a rock inside the vehicle. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Kingsville OPP at 519-733-2345 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Vandalism of vehicles at four locations in Lakeshore

On Sunday, March 21 at approximately 7:30 a.m., Lakeshore OPP responded to a mischief complaint on Main St. in Comber. Police advised that sometime overnight unknown suspect(s) sprayed property and a parked vehicle with red and gold spray paint. Police attended 4 locations on Main St., Centennial Public School, school buses on County Rd. 46, a cube van, a Ford Ranger and a Ford Mustang to find profanity, and crude diagrams sprayed.

The OPP Forensic Identification attended and seized evidence left behind by the suspect(s). Anyone with any information is asked to contact Essex County Youth Crimes Unit at 519-723-2491 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Body Found on Boblo Island

On Saturday, March 20 at approximately 8:30 a.m. Essex County OPP responded to a body found on the west side of Boblo Island, south of the Boblo tower. Police advised that two U.S fishermen found a female body partially submerged in the Detroit River.

Essex County OPP Criminal Investigations Unit and The Department of Public Safety (City of Grosse Point Farms Police Department) attended the scene for further investigations. Foul play is not suspected at this time and a post mortem was to take place in Windsor on Monday, March 22.

Further details will be released pending the outcome of the post mortem.

Leamington Police Reports

The following are the reportable occurrences for the Leamington Police for the period of March 15 to March 22.

March 15 – Sometime after March 13, a residence on Road 6 was broken into. A Ruger 22-caliber handgun was taken.

March 15 – A residence on Point Pelee Drive was broken into. A 52” TV and various tools were taken. The break-in occurred sometime over the past month.

March 17 – Sometime overnight the front window of a business on Talbot St. E. was smashed and a laptop was taken.

Mar 18 – Sometime over the past 24 hours, a residence on Rudgate was broken into. A 32” TV was taken.

If you have information about these occurrences or any other, please call the Leamington Police at 519-326-3214 or Crime Stoppers, 519-258-TIPS.

Walk for MS in Leamington

Last year the Walk for MS in Leamington had 277 participants on 18 teams and raised over $30,000. This year’s organizers are hoping to meet and exceed this total.

2010 is the 7th year for the Walk for MS in Leamington and is slated for Sunday, April 18 at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex.

Every year in Canada thousands of participants join together to take the Team MS challenge and walk, run, cycle or golf on behalf of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada.

Money raised in Leamington is directed to the Windsor-Essex County Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. The Windsor-Essex MS Chapter has 425 registered clients with confirmed diagnosis that are able to apply for funding and services from the chapter. Services inclue: funding for mobility equipment, assistance with grass cutting and snow removal and access to the many social and support programs.

Did you know that every day, three Canadian families receive the news that a loved one has multiple sclerosis?

The MS Walk is the Society’s largest event fundraiser. It involves over 70,000 participants and volunteers and takes place in communities from coast-to-coast.

The MS Walk is a critical part of the Society’s fundraising efforts and is a significant program in funding research towards a cure for MS. Imagine – just by walking and raising funds, you are supporting a fellow Canadian affected by MS.

From the 100-person Walk in Candle Lake, Saskatchewan, to the 4000-person Walk in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the MS Walk is truly a family oriented, community-supported event that makes a difference in the lives of Canadians living with MS.

MS research continues to advance knowledge of the disease and treatment for people with MS. There is much greater understanding of this unpredictable, often disabling disease. Many of those accomplishments have taken place in the past 10 years thanks to the support of the MS Society of Canada and its sister national MS societies around the world, many governments and private industry.

This is your chance to help. Create a team of at least four people and start collecting pledges now. The MS Walk is Sunday, April 18 at 10 a.m. Pre-registration is Saturday, April 17 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Kinsmen Recreation Complex or on the day of the Walk at 8:30 a.m. Last year’s top fundraising team was Mastronardi Produce and the top individual fundraiser was Barb Corless.

For more information and to receive a fundraising package, contact Jackie Putterman, Special Events Co-ordinator at 519-977-9221.

TTh haan nkk Y Yo ouu! !

4 ALARM

Shores Rehabilitation

Fort Dearborn Company

Joey’s Only Seafood Restaurant Lally Southpoint Ford

Michael Laba, Barrister & Solicitor

Network Technical Services Inc

2 ALARM Auto Tech Garage

Bartel Machine & Welding Inc

Brown & Tiessen Construction Ltd

Coulter Cleaning Systems

Don Johnston Electric Ltd

Thanks to those who donated chili, raffle prizes, produce, baked goods & other food services: Adamson Guardian Drug, Anjolie, Angel Scents, Bahama Mamma’s, Blondes Restaurant & Variety, Bowman Feeds & Supply, Buzek Chiropractic Clinic, Canadian Tire, Car Barn Restaurant, Carquest, Chuck Reynolds DJ Service, Clothing Bar, Clyde Hatch, Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens, Costco, Dutch Restaurant, Elite Signs, Erie Shores Golf & Country Club, Faubert Meats, Finders Keepers, Fili’s Eatery, Flamingo Restaurant, Freddy’s Park Stop, Gabriele Floor & Home, Gaspard’s Café, Jack’s Gastropub, Jean Academy Inc, Jillian McCallum: Spa Services, Joey’s Only Seafood Restaurant, John Woelk - Century 21, Jose’s Noodle Factory, Keepsakes Flowers, King’s Landing, Kingsville Golf & Country Club, Kingsville Home Hardware, Knights of Columbus, Lakeside Bakery Deli Café, Lally Southpoint Ford, Laser Looks, Lassonde Juices, LDMH Ladies’ Auxiliary, Leamington & District Chamber of Commerce, Leamington Flyers, Leamington Mennonite Home, Leamington Police Services, Leamington Portuguese Community Club, Lucky Wok Restaurant, Metro (former A & P), Mettawas Station, Municipality of Leamington, Naples Pizza, Northern Xposure, Oma & Opa’s Haus, Pam’s Place, Pelee Days Inn, Ray’s Rib House, Real Canadian Superstore, Reis Appliances, Rhine Danube Club, Roma Club, Rose Adams, Sherman’s Station, Simps Skates Shop, Southpoint GM of Leamington, Star Theatre, Sun Life Financial, Sun Parlor Home for Senior Citizens, Sun Parlor Curling Club, Sunflower Country Store, Sweet Memories, Talbot Trail Golf Course, Taylor Fish Company, Tony Macaroni’s, The Town Shoppe, The Water Outlet, Vernon’s Tap & Grill, Wendy’s Restaurant, Westmoreland Produce Top Line, Wheatley Home Building Centre, Your Home & Garden and Zippy Print.

The 2010 Chilifest Committee together with the Board, Management and staff of South Essex Community Council would like to thank the following businesses for helping us reach our goal of $13,500 towards the purchase of a new Erie Shore Community Transit bus. SPONSORS

My bad grammar

The English language is funny, isn’t it? It’s apparently hard to learn too. Out of thousands of languages, English was considered the ninth hardest language to learn, according to a poll of diplomats.

SouthPoint Wind project balloons to 715 wind turbines

Letter to the Editor

Last September SouthPoint Wind told us the lake wind turbine project would be limited to 15 turbines in Pigeon Bay. Today the project has increased to 715 and extends to Lake St. Clair.

The new Ontario government approval process has also been streamlined and may give citizens only a limited opportunity to be heard. SouthPoint Wind will hold a series of one- or two-hour public meetings on Saturday, March 27th and citizens need to get out to press SouthPoint Wind to respond to the many unanswered questions related to this project. Citizens need to voice their concerns about this mega project before it gets rolling.

The Green Energy Act speeds up the approval process and allows wind energy developers to override existing laws in Ontario which are in place to protect the interests of consumers and the environment. This is the first wind turbine project in fresh water and little is known of the environmental or human health effects. For example, the wind turbines planned near Union on the Lake will be less than half a kilometre from the municipal water intake. What will be the effect on the quality of our water when dredging, drilling and pile driving stirs up the contaminants buried in the lake bottom or if the turbine malfunctions and there is an oil leak? What will be the effect on individuals as well as businesses if the quality of our water is affected? The noise and vibrations of wind turbines over water travels three times farther than on land and may also have serious negative effects on human health.

This area is also a major migration path for birds, bats, butterflies and dragonflies. What impact will these projects have on these creatures? The negative implications on fish habitat must also be addressed, given the importance of both commercial and sport fisheries.

The cost, in relation to the benefit, of this project must also be questioned. SouthPoint Wind will be paid three times the going rate for electricity. What effect will this have on consumers? What effect will it have on local businesses? A recent study in Spain concluded that the increased electricity cost associated with wind power results in job losses due to high electricity costs for businesses. After the short-term

construction jobs, will there be more or less jobs in the area? Wind power is not reliable and will not address peak power demands during hot weather when winds are normally very light. Will we be facing brownouts?

The effects of these projects on the landscape and tourism is also a cause for concern. Our region is a major tourist destination with the lakes being a key feature of the area. What will 715 wind turbines in the Lake Erie and Lake St Clair do for the image of Essex and Kent counties?

This project will have a major impact on the region. Citizens need to make sure that the proponent and government are held accountable to do a proper assessment of the implications so that the residents of Essex and Kent counties are not left to suffer with the negative implications on the environment, our health, the landscape, our electricity bill, and the economy.

March 27th will be your chance to let SouthPoint Wind know your concerns regarding this project. Act now before it’s too late. The Leamington Session will be held on March 27th at 33 Princess St. from 3 to 5 p.m. For more information and additional public meeting locations check www. southpointwind.com and/or http://lakeeriewindturbines. com/.

Gary Koestler, Kingsville

Oil and natural gas make world go round

Dear Editor:

If you ever get the opportunity to travel from Leamington to Blenheim on Talbot Trail, you will soon come across the blight of a once-scenic drive. The blight being someone’s brain flatulence in the form of sprouting white windmills. These windmills are like white knights or angels of the Lord marching across the countryside to save the planet from the evil empire of carbon-producing man. Great white virginal windmills professing to be the saviours of the planet, the cure for carbon emissions, the new protectors of the environment, like a subliminal advertisement stating, “Look at me, I’m white, I’m pure, I’m clean, I’m mesmerizing and serene, spinning in slow-motion as a display of my gentleness.”

If you pull your vehicle off the road, open your windows, turn off your radio and listen closely, you can almost hear them whisper, “Look at us, we are gentle giants, we wouldn’t hurt a fly let alone a migrating bird.”

But in reality, are they white elephants shepherded by governments, gobbling up taxpayers’ money as they march to their ancestral boneyard?

Why are we allowing this abomination to continue across the countryside? Governments, in a misguided effort to be politically correct, using taxpayers’ dollars to subsidize windmills at 4 times the going rate to produce electricity, is an abomination and scourge on the countryside.

This ridiculous idea has been foisted upon governments by Al Gorian shepherds crying wolf with unproven science in order to fleece the taxpayer out of hard-earned dollars.

Windmills will not in the best case scenario create enough renewable energy to make any significant difference in the

reduction of carbon emissions.

This may be all well, good and politically correct. But what happens when government decides it is no longer viable to pay excessive rates to produce electricity? What happens when technology surpasses windmills and they are no longer a profitable entity?

Will the Lords of these great wind machines waft off into the sunset, pockets filled with tax dollars? Will the dismantling of windmills fall on the shoulders of the taxpayer? The taxpayer, whom is currently marching down the road to serfdom, will yet again become responsible for cleaning up the government mess of rotting carcasses from the countryside and from beautiful Lake Erie.

Windmills! Get serious, who’s the brainiac that came up with this ridiculous idea?

As always, governments have jumped the gun based on unproven global warming hype.

Common sense will tell any sane person, windmills are not a long-term solution to our energy needs. Windmills are old technology and will have no impact other than to destroy the countryside. Once the windmills stop spinning and new “profitable” technologies are developed, windmills will become an even bigger blight on the countryside, rusting and falling into disrepair.

Oil and natural gas make the world go around. Windmills will not propel semi trucks down the road, fly planes, move locomotives down the rail, sail ships across the ocean or allow you to drive to sunny Florida.

Please stop the flatulating winds of government from blowing our tax dollars out of the window.

John St. James, Leamington

Keri Keri with a “K” with a “K”

Some find that surprising (mostly those who already know the language), but think how many words we have to describe things. The word ‘big’ can also be replaced with huge, massive, humungous, large, mammoth, super, vast, etc. With silly sentences such as “I would shed a tear if I found a tear in my shed”, it’s no wonder people whose first language isn’t English find it so difficult to grasp.

So then, what’s OUR problem? Those of us who consider English our first language? How come we – myself included – say strange things without having any idea of the proper meaning? It’s like some song lyrics – they don’t make sense half the time, but we accept it anyways. For example:

“At the end of the day”... at the end of the day, what? The sun goes down? I take off my high heels because my feet are killing me?

“My bad”... I am amazed how many people don’t finish this sentence. My bad... dog? My bad... memory? My bad... grammar? How about we all just say “oops” instead, as it’s shorter.

“All things being equal”... but they’re not are they? Because if they were, you wouldn’t have to use this sentence.

What brainiac thought up “Tomorrow is another day”? Were you expecting something different?

“Literally”... I implore you not to misuse this word. I can say without a shadow of a doubt (again not sure what I meant by that) that I now refrain from using this word improperly. To say “I literally laughed my head off”, you would have to have heard a joke so extremely funny that your head actually detached itself from your body and rolled away. “When I came home late, my mom had a bird. Literally”. Okay, I understand that you are trying to emphasize how mad you made your mother, but don’t use the term “literally” unless I need to send your mom a card congratulating her on birthing a feathered creature. “Literally” means “exactly as described; in a literal way”. I think you mean figuratively. Try that one next time.

So just think about the words and phrases you say during the next conversation you encounter. By the way, “irregardless” is not a word so stop saying it. It’s “regardless”, irregardless of the situation. Oops... my bad.

Pruning Tips for Trees and Shrub

Homeowners typically spend lots of time caring for their property. Be it a modest ranch house or a mansion on top of a hill, a home's outside appearance is often a point of pride for homeowners. One commonly overlooked element of an aesthetically appealing home is the role trees can play. Trees can add an element of beauty to a yard while also playing a practical role, such as shading the grass from intense summer sun and acting as great support for hanging a hammock. While trees can add appeal to a homeowner's property, they can also be an eyesore if not properly pruned. Homeowners hoping to get the most out of their trees should consider some pruning guidelines.

* Fruit trees. If the buds on a fruit tree have already started swelling, you've waited too long too prune. In general, fruit trees are best pruned in late winter or early spring. When pruning, be sure to remove all branches growing inward as well as limbs growing straight up. * Berry bushes.

Berry bushes are typically pruned in late fall or early winter, once you have finished harvesting the berries. When pruning berry bushes, keep in mind the importance of shape with respect to a berry bush's aesthetic appeal.

* Rosebushes. Rosebushes are generally best pruned in late winter, with early spring the latest possible cutoff date. Remove any older shoots and leave between four and eight canes while removing any that are growing inward. When cutting them down, try to cut them to right around two feet above ground, and cut close to an inch

above a bud or strong shoot.

* Evergreen shrubs. Evergreen shrubs won't flower, but they can be pruned after they have produced cones or shrubs. That typically occurs between late winter and early spring, so this can be done as the weather begins to warm up as part of your early season spring cleanup.

* Evergreen trees. In general, evergreen trees do not need to be pruned. It's generally obvious when an evergreen does need to be pruned, as the tree will be noticeably larger and in obvious need of pruning.

Evergreens that do need

to be pruned typically need it in late spring or early summer, and they will likely not grow much after a good pruning.

* Deciduous trees. Deciduous trees are generally only pruned for shaping. For those looking to shape, mid to late winter is the ideal time to do so.

* Deciduous shrubs. Mid to late spring is often the best time to prune deciduous shrubs. That's generally after they have flowered, and it will be obvious when they are in need or pruning, as they will likely have lots of unsightly branches evident to the naked eye.

When it comes to spring and summer, many people associate certain sights and sounds with these warm weather seasons. Ocean waves crashing, luscious lawns glowing green and birds chirping are often associated with spring and summer.

While homeowners might not be able to bring the soothing sounds of the ocean to their homes, they can bring the lyrical sounds of birds chirping to their yards. Bird feeders make a wonderful addition to any lawn or garden, adding aesthetic appeal and bringing music to your ears. Choosing a bird feeder can depend on where you'll be hanging it. But whatever the layout of your property, bird feeders come in so many shapes and sizes that you're sure to find the right fit.

* Tray (platform): These feeders are simply a big, open tray that's easy to fill and easy for birds to access seed. What's more, they can accommodate several birds at one time. Most birds will jump at the chance to feast at a tray feeder. There are some who will be reluctant, however, including doves, quail, sparrows and other ground feeders. However, they can certainly dine on any seed that gets spilled over.

* Hopper feeders: These have plastic or glass enclosures that dole out seed as it is needed. This is a smart choice since seed isn't wasted and it's

protected when not being eaten.

* Widow feeders: Before storm windows and screened-in windows infiltrated modern society, birdseed was simply strewn out on an open window sill. You can still invite birds to your window with a window feeder that mounts like a window box. Or, there are models that simply suction to the window itself.

* Tube feeders: These just may be the most efficient type of feeders out there. They're self-contained, the seed stays dry, and they hold a large amount of seed, making refilling an infrequent job. They also can feed a good number of birds at one time.

* Nectar feeders: Some birds, like hummingbirds, orioles, house finches and some woodpeckers, prefer sweet nectar or

With the change of seasons, homeowners are often interested in refreshing the interior atmosphere of their living spaces. Heavy window treatments may be swapped out for sheerer fabrics and perhaps the walls are updated with a new paint color. Another way to brighten up rooms and create instant appeal is by changing the upholstery of furniture. However, reupholstering sofas, loveseats and chairs can be an expensive venture. Instead, look to slipcovers to provide the style you desire. Slipcovers, primarily onesize-fits-all varieties, are some of the most affordable options for quickly

giving furniture a new look. Many stores sell slipcovers in a wide variety of patterns in their linen department. There are enough options to create a new ambiance for every season of the year.

There are different styles of slipcovers, and each can offer a unique look. Some throw-type slipcovers are loose-fitting and are simply draped over a piece of furniture. Nowadays, more manufacturers are creating fitted slipcovers in stretchy materials that will hug the silhouette of a couch or chair and stay in place easily. Slipcovers are also made for reclining

chairs, enabling homeowners to keep that worn-out, comfortable chair despite it being a little rough around the edges.

Homeowners with a larger budget can consider custom slipcovers, which will be tailored to the dimensions of the piece of furniture. Still less expensive than a permanent reupholstering, custom slipcovers offer a perfect fit with the convenience of being able to remove the slipcover for laundering. This is a viable option in a home with children or pets, where the threat of stains could be present.

Skate Wheatley preparing for carnival

Everybody at Skate Wheatley is in high gear getting ready for this year’s skating carnival. It takes dedication and long hours to put on one of Southwestern Ontario’s premier carnivals. Costumes have been handed out and fitted, props are being worked on daily and skaters are practicing their routines.

This year’s theme is “Story Time”. There will be two shows, a matinée at 2 p.m. and an evening program at 7 p.m., on Saturday, March 27 at Wheatley Area Arena. Tickets can be purchased from members of Skate Wheatley or at the door.

Following are the results from the latest test day held Wednesday, March 3 at Wheatley Arena, as well as results from the WO Boston Pizza STARSkate Championships in St. Marys February 19-21, and WO Futures West Invitational in Kingsville March 6 and 7. Congratulations to the skaters who worked hard to compete at these events and represent Wheatley with pride.

TEST DAY RESULTS

Preliminary Dances

REC ROUND-UP REC ROUND-UP

Cardiac Rehab Maintenance Program: For those people who have experienced heart concerns or heart surgery in the past, the Complex offers a 6-month program where a kinesiologist guides you through an exercise routine to give you peace of mind while you get yourself feeling tip-top.

First Aid Courses: Become certified in Standard First Aid/ CPR “C” and recertification courses. Classes for individuals as well as corporate bookings to have your staff meet WSIB requirements.

Registration for the Spring Session begins on Mon. Apr. 6: The Complex has all sorts of Youth Programs and Adult Programs. Get yourself in motion this spring!

Recreational Adult Swimming and Lane Swims are available on a daily basis so check out the Complex pool schedule and come for an energetic swim in our salt-water pool. What a refreshing work out!

Complex Birthday Parties: Bring the kids for a splashing good time in the pool, or an energetic skate on the ice, followed by a pizza party! Your house stays clean, and the kids LOVE all the fun that a Complex Activity Party offers them.

Complex Weight Room: It’s good to see how many people are using the weight room on a regular basis. The Complex is accessible and features Braille weight room equipment. 7 personal trainers and personal nutrition and wellness coaches to help you reach your goals.

Over 50 Fitness & Aquafitness classes per week: The Complex has a very strong following to all of our classes, as the fitness instructors really give you a good work out and challenge you to reach the next level!

Wheatley skater earns Quad Gold

Local figure skater Jordyn McDonald, age 16, has earned the Quad Gold, the highest level a skater can reach with Skate Canada. She is the third skater in the history of Skate Wheatley to attain this goal. To earn the Quad Gold, a figure skater must be accomplished in Dance, Skills, Interpretive and Free Skate.

Jordyn started skating at the age of 3 with Skate Wheatley. Her coaches have been Heather (Jenner) Barrette, Lori Price, Deb Daigneau and Dave Jannick. She appreciates the support of her coaches, Skate Wheatley and her family in achieving this goal.

Jordyn will be performing solo at this weekend’s carnival, “Story Time”, at Wheatley Arena on Saturday, March 27. Show times are 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Jordyn is the daughter of Gayle and Mike McDonald of Wheatley. She is the granddaughter of Larry and Sandy McDonald of Wheatley.

Dutch Waltz: Jadyn Ryan, Kassidy Tiessen, Daniella Scurto, Abby Wigle.

Baby Blues: Meagan Harris.

Junior & Senior

Bronze Dances

Fiesta: Erika Hicks.

Ten Fox: Mykayla Tiessen.

Fourteen-Step: Hailey Bazala. American: Kelsey Almasi.

Rocker: Haley Clark, Meghan Mercer. Paso: Chelsey Malott.

Starlight: Mackenzie Mifflin. Blues: Courtney Wiebe.

Skills Test

Gold: Jacqueline Foott.

Jr. Silver: Emma Hannigan.

Free Skate

Preliminary Part 1: Kelsey Almasi.

Jr. Bronze Part 1: Landis Hancock, Mackenzie Mifflin. Jr. Bronze Part 2: Melissa Phan.

Gold Part 2: Jordyn McDonald.

Interpretive

Intro Interpretive: Meghan Mercer, Kelsey Almasi, Krysten Garant, Mackenzie Goodison.

Bronze Interpretive: Landis Hancock, Emma Hannigan, Mackenzie Mifflin, Haley Clark. Silver Interpretive: Melissa Phan.

WO BOSTON PIZZA STARSKATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Gold Women: Krislyn Malott 6th. Jr. Silver Women: Kristen DiMenna 1st, Nicole Gerth 9th.

Jr. Silver Women Final: Kristen DiMenna 5th. Jr. Bronze Women: Chelsey Malott.

STARSkate Preliminary: Melissa Phan 10th.

STARSkate Pre-Preliminary: Kelsey Almasi 9th, Summer Ellis 10th, Delaney Ribble 11th.

WO FUTURES WEST INVITATIONAL

WO Canskate 6 & Under: Marra Gualtieri 2nd, Jayden Garvey 2nd, Paige Gabert 7th.

WO Canskate 7 Yrs.: Kassidy Tiessen 4th, Shayna Harris 6th, Autumn Jones 7th.

WO Canskate 8 & Over: Abigail Wigle 2nd, Daniella Scurto 4th.

WO Pre-Preliminary A Ltd.: Jordyn Clark 1st, Kendra Hancock 4th, Maddison Clark 4th, Ericka Hicks 5th, Hayley Martineau 6th, Alyssa Beleutz 7th, Candice Cronheimer 8th, Hayley Keith 8th, Mackenzie Church 8th.

STARSkate Pre-Preliminary: Kelsey Almasi 6th, Summer Ellis 8th.

WO Pre-Preliminary B Ltd.: Delaney Ribble 2nd, Mykayla Tiessen 2nd, Krysten Garant 4th, Jessica Hicks 6th, Hailey Bazala 7th.

WO Preliminary A Ltd.: Michelle McClellan 1st, Mackenzie Goodison 1st, Haley Clark 2nd, Meghan Mercer 5th.

WO Preliminary B Ltd.: Emma Hannigan 2nd, Melissa Phan 3rd.

Jordyn McDonald

Caldwell call Leamington home

By Fred Groves

It took over 200 years but the Caldwell First Nation is one vote away from being compensated for lands lost in the Leamington area.

In January, the Federal government announced a $105 million land claim settlement. It was the second large settlement announced as the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation have a $145 million settlement before them.

According to Caldwell Chief Louise Hillier, band members will vote on whether to accept the settlement which could bring significant economic growth to the Leamington area.

“I think there would be a real economic spurt for Caldwell. We have had a lot of offers to invest in different ventures. It will take time to look at those ventures,” said Hillier.

Once band members are given all the information from the band council, they will be voting on two issues: Whether to except the $105 million compensation from the government, and how to manage that settlement.

Hillier and the rest of the council have high aspirations including infrastructure that would include health, housing and education.

“We have a responsibility to make sure money is not lost. It has to be there for future generations.”

There are 294 Caldwell First Nation members. The largest concentration of 55 is in the Leamington area. There is a band administration office adjacent to the Legion and Hillier says it is hoped that an urban reserve can be created in the area.

“We’ve been spread out all over Canada and the United States. With this settlement, if it goes through, there is the potential to bring a lot of the members back to this local

Night

area,” said Hillier.

When the current band council, which includes Hillier, Janne Peters, Lonnie Dodge and Melody Watson took over in 2007, one of its priorities was to put the Caldwell band back on what they call “a good solid footing”.

In 2003, then Chief Larry Johnson and the band council were offered a $23.4 million settlement which they rejected.

“What we were being asked to surrender was worth far more than what the previous Chief and Council were bringing to us,” said Hillier.

Dodge’s mother is one of several elders of the Caldwell First Nation. She said she is pleased with the settlement offer and added that it should have happened many years ago.

Peters has a lot of knowledge as far as historical and geographical issues and helped prove the Caldwell’s case.

She was able to uncover an archival document where a Leamington councillor in the early 1800s requested the local government assist the band who were living in the Point Pelee area, to help get rid of white European settlers who had moved into the area.

The settlement for the Caldwell First Nation is in adherence to a 1790 treaty that provided land to other First Nations. In a press release, Chatham-Kent MP Dave Van Kesteren said the progress made in the settlement talks shows what can be accomplished when government and First Nations work together.

According to Hillier, the 1790 treaty indicates that the Caldwells “have always been here.” She noted that the local band also has claim to Pelee Island but that territory is a separate area to be dealt with.

When asked if the $105 million settlement offer is enough, Hillier said, “Will that money get back what we lost? I don’t think it really compensates any First Nation regardless of the amount of money.”

Take Part in Earth Hour 2010!

This Saturday, March 27 at 8:30 p.m. the world will turn off its lights for just one hour to show it is possible to take action on climate change and demonstrate that our individual actions add up to make a big difference. Switching off your lights is just one simple action that you can take to help and it sends a powerful message that we care about our planet.

Caldwell First Nation Councillor Lonnie Dodge, left; Elder Josie Dodge, and Chief Louise Hillier.

Headshots: something needs to be done

The NHL doesn’t need to change the game of hockey to protect players from headshots, it needs to change the equipment and add some real consequences.

Headshots have been getting plenty of attention lately, with concussions and missed games on the rise year after year it’s obvious to everyone that something needs to be done.

NHL General Managers have their suggestions and plans for the future, and the players union will undoubtedly have some as well.

The guru thinks equipment and consequences are the answer. Please forgive the third person writing, I too have suffered headshots and slip into athlete speak from time to time.

Following the GM meetings it was decided: “A lateral, back pressure or blindside hit to an opponent where the head is targeted and or the principal point of contact is not permitted. A violation of the above will result in a minor or major penalty and shall be reviewed for possible supplemental discipline.” This lawyer speak is a little less than illuminating and far too vague for me.

The Players Association says: “We look forward to receiving and reviewing the General Managers’ proposal. Hits to the head, including blindside hits, are important issues facing the NHLPA membership. In order to appropriately address these issues, the NHLPA’s Competition Committee members will thoroughly review this proposal and gather feedback from the membership prior to the Committee’s meeting this summer.” This is the association’s way of saying “we’ll think about”. Hopefully those without the head trauma are doing the thinking.

The Guru says: “All headshots will be reviewed. Any deemed ‘avoidable’ will result in suspension. The length of suspension will grow by 10 with each subsequent violation by a repeat offender.”

That’s the deterrent. You’ll miss games and you’ll lose pay!

As for the equipment players wear, it is, in a word, ridiculous. Elbow pads and shoulder pads are made of super hard plastic. Why? Could the same safety from falling injuries and rubs on the boards not be achieved through a more face-friendly padding? And really, I question the need for shoulder pads at all. Maybe a bruise here and there would help remind players that they’re not indestructible machines.

Take the armor off the players and take the idiots off the ice – that will solve headshots.

Bantam AEs win, lose, tie

Southpoint Capitals Bantam AE hockey team continued their Bluewater playoffs over the past two weeks and came away with 1 win, 1 tie and 1 loss.

In the first game against the Windsor Jr. Spitfires, the Capitals’ Austin Thompson opened the scoring with an unassisted goal at the five-minute mark. That lead was shortlived and by the first minute of the third period Windsor had a 4-1 lead over the Capitals. The score stood until Thompson scored from Evan Nash and Devon Belte with just under 7 minutes remaining. With 5 minutes left to play, the Capitals Travis Fehr found the back of the Windsor net to narrow the deficit to 1. Earning assists on Fehr’s goal were Brandon Stahl and Thompson. In the final seconds of the game, Southpoint’s Kyle Dama fired a shot which was stopped by the Windsor goaltender; however, a big rebound came right out to Thompson and he scored to tie the game with less than 1 second on the game clock.

The next evening the Capitals were in Essex and were defeated 3-2 by the Ravens. Both Capital goals came in the second period after trailing the game 2-0. Derek Johnston scored the Capitals first goal from Thompson. Three minutes later, Joel Klemens scored unassisted to tie the game at 2-2, which the team took into the second intermission. The Capitals gave up an early third-period goal and couldn’t get back in the game.

The team’s third game had them hosting and defeating the Chatham Jr. Maroons 5-1. Scoring for the Capitals were Thompson (3), Dama and Justin Church. Earning assists were Fehr (2), Johnston, Belte and Thompson. With this victory the Capitals improved their playoff record to 3 wins, 2 loses and 1 tie.

The team’s last playoff game was Tuesday evening in Tecumseh vs Tecumseh Eagles. Visit the team’s website at www.southpointminorhockey.com for the results.

DEADLINE REMINDER

The Sports The Sports Guru Guru Stars defeat Blenheim in exhibition game

Public Skating fun

Public Skating at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex is a great way for young skaters to learn to skate and gain their balance. Pictured here is Kyle MacMillan who was having fun with his parents on Thursday, March 18 during March Break. (Sun

By Mackenzie Heyens

After a heartbreaking loss a few weeks before, the Rhine Danube Southpoint Stars girls suited up for the first time since then to play an exhibition game against the Blenheim Blades.

The Rhine Danube came out strong and when combined with the short opposing bench the Stars soon wore down the Blenheim Blades, with many of the girls playing their best game all year. The well-earned hattrick went to Jillian Iles with two assists from Shailyn Waites and the third from Waites and Charlee Cabral.

Amanda Stasko scored in the second period from the point with the assists from Waites and Mackenzie Heyens.

During the last three minutes of play, with two men from each team in the penalty box, Kayla Leipold scored her first of the game with assists from Karissa Ricci and Kayla Lindsay.

It was a rough game and the Rhine Danube Southpoint Stars kept their cool, playing smart with quite a few uncharacteristic rushes from the defense.

The Southpoint Stars next home exhibition game is Friday, March 26 at 7 p.m. on the Heinz rink. Good game girls, and good luck!

Photo)

Going Green is not only good but fun!

For all of you that enjoyed a green beer on March 17th, I would like to pose a question: “Who is St. Patrick?”

This came to my mind when my husband and I were at Gilligan’s, where people stood to enjoy the live bands; all seats in the house were booked far in advance. Shortly after arriving, one of the patrons, a friend of our Flyer billet (alias other son) asked me why I was just wearing a little green. I answered, “With a name like Shannon, I figured that was enough Irish for me to don.” He replied, “Is Shannon an Irish name?”

I went on to explain that Shannon was the name of the largest river in Ireland and one of the most Irish of all names. I avoided getting into the fact my mother’s name is Maeve. No doubt that information was going to get lost in the Green Melee!

It dawned on me that many of the green concoction imbibers had no idea who St. Paddy even was or why we were celebrating. Tell you the truth, I can’t say I did either.

Lifestyles Lifestyles

St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland and one of the most widely-known figures. Even so, his life remains much of a mystery. There are many stories. One dubious account tells of him banishing the snakes out of Ireland.

St. Paddy died March 17th. He was born in Britain in the 4th century to an affluent family. His father was a Christian deacon, but it was said he was not a religious man. It is suggested that he took the job because of the tax incentives. HST beware!

At the age of 16, St. Patrick’s family was raided and he was taken prisoner by Irish raiders. He spent 6 years in captivity, alone as a shepherd. Lonely and afraid, he turned to Christianity. He became a devout Christian and dreamed of converting the Irish to Christianity.

God spoke to him during a dream, telling him it was time to leave Ireland; after 6 years in captivity, he escaped. He walked 200 miles to the Irish Coast and from there escaped to Britain.

A second revelation occurred when an angel came to him and told him to return to Ireland as a missionary. He spent 15 years studying religion and after being ordained as a priest was sent to Ireland with a dual mission. To minister to the Christians already in Ireland was one, and to begin converting the rest of the Irish to Christianity was the other. Using bonfires and the sun, St. Patrick incorporated these Irish symbols into his lessons. Bonfires to celebrate Easter and the sun superimposed unto the Christian cross created what is now the Celtic cross, a symbol that seemed more natural to the Irish.

By now, the green has dissolved off the green beer drinkers’ tongues. Besides the excuse to drink beer, I don’t know what brings these young gaffs out except that perhaps the green outfit reminds them of Ninja Turtles, Tella Tubbies and Barney’s buddy from their childhood past. On second thought, most people claim to be Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. The Irish culture is centered on storytelling, and as stories go they tend to get exaggerated. We will never know. Since we are talking ‘Green’, the frogs are croaking in the parks, and no wonder our grandmothers hid their cash under their mattresses. With the deflated interest rates and HST around the corner, it may be the only way to cushion ourselves!

Until next St. Paddy’s Day, “Top of The Morn!”

From left to right Shannon Bowman, Jillian McCallum and Jessica Bree were three of the many revelers who enjoyed St. Patrick’s Day at Gilligan’s on March 17.

Gilligan’s was serving up green beer and Irish treats on March 17th, St. Paddy’s Day, and had a full house to enjoy it!

Accessibility in Leamington

Assessibility Advisory Committee commends Leamington B of W

By John Coggans

The Leamington Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC) held its regular quarterly meeting on March 10.

First issue on the agenda was a presentation from Town Administration on procedures for the vote by mail in the municipal election due in October. Considerable discussion took place round trying to provide a means of enabling persons with serious sight deficiency to truly exercise a secret ballot.

The present method of having someone else complete the ballot paper for the vision impaired person is not acceptable. It was recommended to Administration that a simple template be supplied to such persons as is done in provincial and federal elections. This method is almost without cost, simple, and very adequate.

Cameron McKay, head of the town’s Works Department, then reviewed plans for the changes planned at Seacliff Park. These mainly centred round the degree of slope in various areas as they might impact wheelchair users, and some form of guidance for the vision impaired on a walking area. Construction in the park is due to begin in April.

The Committee was informed that a brochure detailing business’s responsibilities under the AODA, which will come into force in 2012, will be mailed out with commercial property

tax notices. The response of town businesses to various prompts on this subject has been very disappointing. A free information breakfast last fall had not one attendee. Another attempt along this line will be held March 23 with a free lunch to which reps of all town businesses are invited. Contact the Chamber of Commerce or Committee chair Carol Bell at (519) 326-5899.

In the minutes of a meeting of the chairpersons of Accessibility Advisory Committees (AACs) throughout Windsor and Essex County it was pleasing to note that while clearing of snow from sidewalks “continues to be a problem”, Leamington seems to be the exception where the Works Department does a fine job in the main in keeping walkways snow free.

Also it was noted that Leamington had been the first municipality in the county to provide a WE ASSIST program at several town stores. The LAAC and those store managers involved can take satisfaction in this.

The Committee received a report and notice of workshops on a study of “active transportation” in Essex County. It chiefly dealt with non-motorized transportation – biking and hiking trails. During this discussion a recommendation from the Committee to Leamington Council emerged asking Council to do all it can to hasten the provision of public transit between Leam-

ington and Windsor. It was felt that many disabled persons and others are deprived of the facilities of Windsor – theatres, shopping, etc., because of an inability to drive.

Other reports received and noted by the Committee included one from the Windsor/Essex Housing Analysis and Recommended Strategy workshop; a policy on implementation of the standards for Customer Service presented to Town Council for adoption (for public bodies such as municipal councils these standards stemming from the AODA are now in force); and Essex County’s 200910 Accessibility Plan.

The Committee meetings of late have been sadly depleted by the absence of the wheelchair-using members. Weather and health factors are basically the cause here. But their absence undoubtedly restricts the perspective of opinion on issues discussed. At a previous meeting the Committee decided to have some kind of lunch gathering to which disabled persons in the Leamington community would be invited, the aim being to arouse interest.

To assist in this, a generous donation was received from the St. Anthony Knights of Columbus Council 13797. The Committee sincerely thanks the Knights, and hopes it will be able to make use of this generous offer by hosting a very full meeting of disabled persons in the near future. In-

formation may be obtained by calling Committee chair Carol Bell at 519-326-5899 or John Coggans at 519326-6782.

Julie Armstrong and her Sun Parlour rink of Joan Kettle, Darlene Graham and Kelly Jakob won 8-7 in an extra end over Sandy Brook and her Kingsville team of Doreen Cole, Tamara Fick and Sara Shklov Tuesday at the 34th Annual Ladies Wild Goose tournament at the Kingsville Curling Club. Pictured here is the Sun Parlour rink, from left to right, Kelly Jakob, Darlene Graham, Joan Kettle and Julie Armstrong. (Photo Submitted)

Drawing the lucky raffle tickets are IODE member Tracey Butcher, her daughter Madelyn, and Treasurer Theresa Buschman.

45th IODE Antique Show & Sale

The 45th IODE Antique Show & Sale had approximately 750 people attend the show held at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex on Saturday and Sunday, March 20 and 21. With the bake sale, frozen apple crisp, tea room, door and raffle, organizers estimate they raised over $5,000 to put back into the community. Winners of the raffle prizes were Nancy Moody of Leamington, Eva Shaw of Port Stanley and Cathy Foster of Wheatley. The show attracts enthusiasts from across southwestern Ontario. The next fundraising event sponsored by the Sir Winston Churchill IODE Chapter is a Princess Luncheon to be held May 1 at the Rhine Danube Club. (Sun Photos)

plus utilities. Call 519-3225567. tf

RENOVATIONS:

Eavestroughing, decks, siding, windows, complete renovations, Gutter Cleaning Systems, furniture refinishing. Call Bill Siddall 519-8253931 tf

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

PRINTING: Business envelopes, invoices, flyers, business cards, custom print jobs, whatever your printing needs, call Rick at The Wheatley Journal for quick and economical service. 519-825-4541. tf

Income Tax Preparation, $30 per return, includes e-filing, 30 years experience. 519326-2770. mar24-31

MEETING

SELFSTORAGE - Inside and outside storage, 24 hour access and security. Asize for every need. Pay for 6 months, get 1 month FREE. 16 First Concession Line, Wheatley 519-791-1464. 12-21

KAHLRECYCLING

We come to you and haul away your junk. Metals and appliances are free. Everything else has a fee. Kall Ken 519-326-8559. mar3-24

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

ASHOWFORTHE WHOLEFAMILY - Little Tomato Theatre presents “Seussical The Musical” at UMEI Auditorium, April 9-11. Call 519-322-1896 for tickets. Cost is $10/ticket. mar10-ap7

FOR SALE

Rational CPC102 ClimaPlus Combi Oven (electric), QTE probe, 10 stainless steel shelves, 10 perforated baking sheets, self cleaning, dry steam cooking. Call 519796-6322. mar24-apr14

MOVING SALE

Friday,Saturday, March 26 &27, 8 am to 1 pm. Household, tools, etc. 201 Bennie, Leamington. Raincheck following Fri & Sat. mar24-24

GIFT BASKETS

Easter Baskets are now available for all ages. Please call 'How U Doin'? Gourmet Gift Baskets at (519) 8183218 or (519) 322-1561. Gift Baskets are also on display at Oak Farms Ltd. 94 Oak St. W., Leamington mar24-31

HELPWANTED

OakFarms Ltd. has a current position open for a part time floral designer. Must be able to work Saturdays, Holidays and work in a team environment.

Please send resumes to Krissy or apply in person Monday, Wednesday or Friday.

94 Oak St. W., Leamington 519-326-9322

OPEN HOUSE

for

HELEN MOODY

celebrating her 97th Birthday with friends and family. Open House from 2-5 pm, Sunday, March 28th, Upstairs Hall at the Wheatley Legion

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

Congratulations! Congratulations!

Christina Kish and the staff at “Body Kneads Massage & Wellness Centre” would like to congratulate DR. LUCAS DR. LUCAS SZCZEPANIK SZCZEPANIK on the opening of his new location. We wish you years of continued success!

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

TTh haan nkk Y Yo ouu. .... .

The Southpoint Sun would like to thank all those who responded to our recent advertisement for a parttime reporter/photographer. We will keep all resumes and inquiries on file for any future needs.

Again, thank you for all your resumes and interest.

LEAMINGTON CHRYSLER’S

Here it is folks. You’ve been waiting and we’re delivering. It 's been 2 years since we’ve had a minivan driveaway event and it's here. Put your name on one of these vehicles and you save the $1400 freight charges, plus get all of the available discounts, and crazy low finance rates. BUT when they’re gone, they’re gone. All vehicles will be here by March 24 at the latest.

LISTFAMILY