staff at The Southpoint Sun
Front, left to right: Jan Watson, Lori Gouin, Mallory Heyens, Melissa Hopper and Roberta McCarty. Middle: Jim Heyens, Allison Siddall and Erin Squance. Back: Bryan Jessop, Nick Cervini and Sheila McBrayne.
ElderCollege announces spring lineup
By Lloyd Brown-John
Canterbury ElderCollege will launch its Spring 2015 semester with over 80 short courses on a variety of topics for folks age 55+. Courses will take place in Windsor as well as Leamington, Kingsville, Harrow, Essex and ChathamKent.
Given Leamington’s wonderful location, several Leamington courses will involve outdoor activities ranging from an ERCA guided nature walk in the Kopegaron Woods to the Basics of Birdwatching with Point Pelee National Park naturalist Sarah Rupert. Noted naturalist and Essex County farmer David Ainslie will lead a walk through his private Carolinian forest woodlot where he will focus not just upon the trees but upon the “under story” of plants, shrubs and related forest life.
ElderCollege will offer three technology courses. iPad For Beginners is at the SECC office on Talbot St. East, and two computer related courses, Social Media for Seniors and Web Safety for Seniors, will be held at Leamington Library.
Also in Leamington will be the always popular lawn bowling course with the Leamington Lawn Bowling Club.
Finally, at Leamington’s Chartwell Residence there will be a one-session roundtable course called “Peacemaker of Powdermonkey?”, a discussion on
Canada’s changing role internationally.
Meanwhile, ElderCollege courses in Kingsville will range from music to model railroads to canoeing to Shakespeare. Noted choral director Paul Wharram will offer a fascinating new course “You Too Can Sing!” for aspiring singers and seasoned choristers. Two local composers and performers, Gordon Harwood and Steve Morin, will offer “Fun With Music: An Adventure with Performing Songwriters”.
Registration for ElderCollege courses is open to persons age 55 and better. To register for ElderCollege courses you must be a member of ElderCollege ($10 annual fee).
ElderCollege printed course catalogue should be available about midJanuary. Course registrations will begin February 3. Many courses fill up rapidly. All courses are offered by volunteers who often determine their preferred course number limit.
Canterbury ElderCollege, Windsor-Essex County-Chatham-Kent, can be reached at www.uwindsor.ca/canterbury/eldercollege. You will be able to register online on February 3, or by telephone 519-253-3000 ext. 4944 or 4901.
ElderCollege is a not-for-profit volunteer based community program designed to enhance the lives of seniors.
2014 Year In Review
JANUARY
Three file for 2014 Municipal Election
Hilda MacDonald started her year off on a positive note as she registered in the 2014 Municipal Election for the seat of deputy-mayor for the Municipality of Leamington. “I just thought I’d lay my cards out on the table early,” said the current Leamington councillor.
the weather, Mr. Friesen was found to be dehydrated, disoriented and frostbitten but alive. EMS took Friesen to Leamington District Memorial Hospital where staff was waiting to treat his low body temperature and frostbite.
“It’s a miracle, really. He definitely has an angel watching over him,” said Moniz. Friesen was treated for frostbite to his fingers and toes, but is otherwise in good condition, according to OPP.
First baby of the New Year
MacDonald topped the polls in 2010 with 5,442 votes (almost 2,000 votes ahead of second place Rick Atkin). “I just thought I needed to do it right away, and hopefully avoid all the he said/she said rumors,” said MacDonald. MacDonald was the first to register on Friday, Jan. 3.
On Monday, Jan. 6, Mayor John Paterson also added his name to the Municipal Election files. Paterson filed for reelection for top spot as mayor. “Just submitted my paperwork to run for re-election as Mayor of Leamington. I’m not interested in playing strategy games and that is why I’m announcing now. There’s too much work to be done in 2014,” is what the mayor posted on his Facebook page.
The first baby of the New Year finally arrived at Leamington District Memorial Hospital. Parents Rob and Sara Kimball of Leamington proudly welcomed their third son, Ealum, on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2014. Baby Ealum, who is named after his great-grandfather, weighed in at 8 pounds, 4 ounces. He joins his two older brothers, age 3 and 5.
Details released in Heinz
agreement
Hike Metal Products loading up Hornblower catamarans destined for NF $12 million contract took a year to complete Wheatley ship building company Hike Metal Products Ltd. attempted to load up the segments of a 700-passenger catamaran tour boat for Hornblower Niagara Cruises, but had to get a larger transport.
The two $6 million catamarans built by Hike will replace the Maid of the Mist for boat tours under Niagara Falls. The boats are 26.24 metres long with a beam of 10.97 metres. The Niagara Parks Commission awarded Hornblower a contract to operate the boat tours beginning in spring 2014. The 30-year contract is worth $500 million. The project took approximately one year to complete with work beginning in December 2012.
Heinz employees in Leamington will receive two weeks pay per year of service in a closure agreement. According to a letter from UFCW Canada Local 459 which was sent to Heinz’s 640 unionized workers employees, those with more than five years of service will receive 52 weeks of health care benefit continuation. Employees with less than five years will receive 26 weeks of health care continuation and a lump sum payout equal to the greater of five weeks’ wages or two weeks’ wages per completed year of service. Rob Crawford, president of UFCW Canada Local 459, confirmed that the unionized employees will also receive a $2,500 productivity bonus when the plant closes. The plant is scheduled to close June 27.
After loading some pieces on Monday, Dec. 30, the first boat was expected to leave on Jan. 6, with the second one leaving by mid-week. “They have to be sent in sections and reassembled there,” said Frank Baptista, Hike Metal plant manager. “We’re very, very happy with them and they are right on time, so we’re right on schedule,” he said.
Missing Leamington man recuperating from frostbite
Truck found buried in snowbank
When 70-year-old John Friesen left his house on Monday, Jan. 6 for his usual 4 p.m. drive, he had no idea that the next 24 hours would become the wildest ride of his life. With blizzard-like conditions coming off Lake Erie – high winds, very poor visibility and -25º temperatures, Friesen, in his white GMC pickup, wore only his Crocs and a light jacket for his drive.
“His wife contacted police at about 8:30 p.m. that night when he didn’t return from his drive,” said OPP Constable Stephanie Moniz, Community Services/Media Relations Officer, Essex County OPP Detachment. “Police looked through the night, which was the night of the storm, with no luck,” she said. On Tuesday morning, Jan. 8, OPP called in the assistance of Leamington road crews who were out plowing area roads. OPP Sgt. Shawn Diewold did a ‘ride along’ with snowplow operator Kevin Derbyshire with help from Dominic Najim, who was driving a frontend loader. By clearing roads and snow banks, the team scoured the area. Derbyshire spotted what looked like a red taillight on East Beach Road. When Najim dug it out, it was the white pickup they were looking for and Mr. Friesen was found alive inside the cab. Despite not being properly dressed for
OPP urges public’s patience
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Essex County was kept extremely busy the evening of Jan. 6 with the poor weather conditions in the county, especially south of Essex County Road 8. Frigid temperatures and blowing snow caused traffic hazards and vehicles to leave the roadways. Crews worked to remove vehicles that were left abandoned on roadways overnight as the roads became clear. The OPP asked for the public’s patience as officer’s co-ordinate removal of these vehicles. The OPP urged the public to stay off the roads during bad weather conditions unless absolutely necessary.
The Leamington-based band Takers & Leavers has ‘taken’ another Battle of the Bands title while ‘leaving’ good impressions on their audiences.
The group finished first in the Jan. 21 Battle of the Bands hosted by St. Clair College, their fourth title since forming about four-and-a-half years ago as Nuclear Sunrise. The members of the band — lead singer and guitarist Alex Dick, brother Dan Dick on drums, Andrew Iles on keyboards and guitar, Shawn Dawson on bass and vocals and Marshall Buttl on rhythm guitar — have been playing music individually since about seven to eight years of age. Members of the group met as high school students at Leamington District Secondary School and are now each enrolled in courses at University of Windsor or St. Clair College.
LDMH officially opens Women’s Centre
Leamington District Memorial Hospital wasted no time in turning a dream into a fully-functional, high-tech reality. On Thursday, Jan. 30, LDMH and LDMH Foundation representatives officially unveiled the hospital’s new Women’s Centre, a main-floor wing offering leading-edge digital imaging for patients who had previously had to travel to Windsor or Chatham for the same services. Several diagnostic services are available at the new centre, including ultrasound digital mammography, nuclear medicine, bone densitometry, x-rays, CT scanning and digital node biopsies.
Leamington man earns Masonic Lodge medal
What used to be a once-in-a-lifetime honour has been bestowed upon Leamington resident Gary Adams. Adams has been one of few Masonic Lodge members in Ontario to receive the William Mercer Wilson medal this year, the highest possible accolade that can be earned in the Grand Lodge’s jurisdiction.
The medal was named after the Grand Lodge’s first Grand Master and has been affixed to the breast pocket of only 235 Masons since its inception 70 years ago. “I almost fell out of my chair,” Adams said of the moment he was told he would receive the medal. “I didn’t quite have a heart attack. It’s a super honour.”
Adams has been a member of Leamington Masonic Lodge #290 for 50 of its 100-plus years. The local branch of the organization now includes just over 100 members, a figure that was once much higher.
Cougars cheer on Agosta
The entire country got behind Team Canada in the Olympic women’s hockey gold medal game and Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School was certainly no exception.
The school showed its support for former Cougar Meghan Agosta and her team by transforming their gymnasium into a live-game forum for the Thursday, Feb. 20 gold and silver match between Canada and the United States. Led by educational assistant Maureen Gillanders, a small group of volunteers decorated the gym with Team Canada and Agosta-related items prior to the 12 p.m. opening faceoff. The entire student body was sent to the gymnasium bleachers and playing surface starting at 1 p.m. to watch the second half of the game on two large projector screens, displaying the game through the school’s Wi-Fi system.
The gold medal — won 3-2 by Canada in dramatic, overtime fashion after trailing the Americans 2-0 late in the third period — is the third in Agosta’s collection.
Council agrees to $60,000 grant for The Bank Theatre
Representatives of The Bank Theatre and Meeting Place who were in attendance at the Monday, Feb. 10th meeting of Council learned they have been given a grant that will leave the group debt free.
In a presentation to Council, Rick Taves, a member of the fundraising committee for The Bank Theatre, and treasurer Helen Huebert updated Council on the status of the work in progress. Taves told Council the project has reached the halfway point but admitted they still need help to complete the project they have been working so diligently on for the past couple years. He told Council that the project is an important component of Leamington’s future.
After much discussion, Council agreed to a $60,000 grant from the Collins Estate Fund, which was bequeathed specifically to benefit the library, the arts and culture in the municipality.
Calendar Girls opens to a full house
The first show to grace the new Starlight Stage at The Bank Theatre and Meeting Place was Calendar Girls, presented by Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre and Theatre Ensemble. Thursday, Feb. 13 was the sold out opening night. Calendar Girls deals with a mix of serious life issues and hilarious scenes that prove we should never take ourselves too seriously. On Wednesday night, Feb. 12, the show was put on for Heinz employees to enjoy a preview.
The show ran through to Sun. Feb. 16 with sold out performances.
From left to right, Ruthven’s Meghan Agosta, Sidney Crosby of Team Canada’s men’s hockey team and Agosta’s teammate Laura Fortino pose for photos after both teams captured gold in the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.
MARCH
Distracted driving fatalities surpass both impaired and speed-related fatalities
Fine jumping to $280
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) launched its initiative against irresponsible drivers with their Distracted Driving Campaign to eliminate the threat of distracted driving through awareness-raising efforts and focused enforcement.
The campaign started Sat. Mar. 8 and runs until Fri. Mar. 14. In 2013, distracted driving fatalities surpassed both impaired and speed related fatalities in fatal motor vehicle collisions investigated by the OPP. A total of 78 persons died in distracted driving related collisions compared to 57 impaired driving deaths and 44 speed related deaths last year.
Wheatley woman wins 20,000 CAA dollars in regional contest
Jodie Whaley of Wheatley was the lucky winner of 20,000 CAA dollars, which translates into $20,000 to spend on CAA travel packages or merchandise, membership or insurance renewals.
Whaley entered CAA South Central Ontario’s Black Friday promotion in the fall of 2013 when she booked a vacation for her and her husband Roy to Cuba and renewed her CAA membership. “Whaley had been a loyal CAA customer for many years, but only recently became a CAA member during last year’s sale,” said Barbara Leblanc, Store Manager of CAA Leamington.
Whaley said she didn’t have any big trips planned, but would probably do a lot of little trips with the winnings.
New pricing structure for mailing letters takes effect March 31
Canada Post introduced a new tiered pricing structure for domestic and international letters.
On March 31, the price of Permanent (or “P”) stamps bought in booklets, coils and panes will be $0.85 per stamp, up from the current $0.63. “P” stamps are valid on standard letters weighing 0-30 grams mailed within Canada. A $0.22 stamp will be available as make-up postage for 0-30 g letters for those customers who wish to use previously purchased $0.63 stamps.
Permanent stamps, identified with the letter P in place of a value, will continue to be accepted even if they were purchased at a lower price prior to the adjustment.
Customers who wish to purchase a single stamp will pay $1.
Community steps forward for Aubri
Aubri’s Angels have once again come up big. The Leamington community gathered for a two-hour event Friday evening in support of the seven-year-old in the latest “Prayers for Aubri Day,” hosted by the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex.
Funds for the young cancer patient were raised through front-door donations, the sale of yellow and purple t-shirts and ‘Brave and Bald for Aubri.’ Aubri, currently receiving treatment in Calgary, greeted visitors of the fundraiser through a live video feed.
APRIL
Wheatley-raised singer eyes Nashville
You can take Ryan Bradley out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of Ryan Bradley. The Wheatley born and raised musician is looking to take his songwriting skills to Music City Nashville, Tenn. in hopes of expanding on the success he has already experienced as a country music singer and guitar player.
Ryan Bradley Willan — who uses Ryan Bradley as his stage name — is heading to Nashville on Sunday, Apr. 6 to record his single ‘Next Weekend’. The song will be produced by Danick Dupelle of Canadian country music band Emerson Drive.
After recording, the song will receive air time on country music radio stations across Canada during the first week of May. ‘Rural Route Four’, a song inspired by memories of the road of the same name where his wife once resided near the Albuna Town Line, has earned him a spot in the Final 25 of the Music City Songwriting Competition. The song, entered with his permission by his Southbound Records label manager Cassadie Pederson, was one of about 3,000 entries. Bradley will soon find out if the song makes it to the Final 5.
LDMH emergency department ranks #1 in ESC LHIN for ER wait times
LDMH established itself as the top performer in ER wait times within the ESC LHIN and 19th in Ontario, calculated using data from January-December 2013 that compares 74 Ontario hospitals with high volume Emergency Departments (EDs).
ent of a WESPY honour. Alyssa is golfing with the Golf Association of Ontario’s (GAO) U19 Team Ontario. Alyssa was unable to attend the 9th annual WESPY awards night held Tuesday, Apr. 15 in Windsor because she was in Florida training. Alyssa was named to Team Ontario for the 2013-2014 year and has been busy travelling with the team this winter.
Leamington Flyers best in the west
After 22 years in the Ontario Hockey Association’s Junior ‘B’ Western League/Conference, the Leamington Flyers have left their mark on the Bill Weir Championship Trophy.
The Flyers wrapped up a whirlwind Western Conference title series against the Chatham Maroons with a 1-0 regulation victory on home ice Thursday, Apr. 3 in front of a team-record crowd of 2,057 fans. The win finished the series at 4-1 for Leamington, granting the red, white and black a berth in the Sutherland Cup semifinals.
Despite finishing the Western regular season in first place, the Flyers were largely considered the underdogs against the third-place Maroons, who recruited a handful of the GOJHL’s best players after a slow start to the 2013-14 campaign. The regular season ended with four Chatham players collecting more points than the top Flyer — Lambton Shores acquisition Kyle Brothers led the 27-team GOJHL with 122 points, veteran Maroon Michael Verboom finished with 94, former Predator Adam Arseneault piled up 76 and former Port Colborne Pirate Charlie Izaguirre finished 13th overall with 71. Alex Seguin led the Flyers with 56 points.
Final budget passed - taxes going down
“These most recent results represent the dedication of the entire team to deliver compassionate care – close to home,” says Terry Shields, CEO of LDMH.
At a special Council meeting on Tuesday, Apr. 22, Leamington Council passed the final budget for the Municipality. Taxes this year will go down about $1 on the urban levy and about $8 on the general levy.
The ranking measures hospital EDs on five performance indicators for Length of Stay in the Emergency Room (ER) which includes: patients requiring admission into the hospital; patients with minor conditions, who don’t require admission; patients with complex conditions, who don’t require admission; Time to Physician Initial Assessment (how soon a patient sees a physician from the time they register in ED); Time to Inpatient Bed (the length of time patients remain in the Emergency Department once it’s been determined they require admission into hospital).
To translate that into ‘real’ dollars, if you own a home out in the country valued as $150,000 you will owe $2,382, and if you own a home of the same value in town you will owe $2,654.
Once the 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Friday, Mar. 28 event had concluded, the combined fundraisers collected a sum of about $7,300. Before the event began, Aubri decided to donate money raised by the silent auction to a friend she made while receiving treatment in London. Iseonna Silliker, who attended the event as one of the Aubri’s Angels volunteers, was diagnosed with brain tumors. The $1,300 collected through the silent auction has been donated to the 12-year-old’s family to help offset the costs involved with travel and other expenses. Iseonna and Aubri were both treated in London from August to November of last year.
The Silliker family was unaware of Aubri’s intentions to donate the silent auction funds to them until after the event was completed.
Getty repeats as WESPY female golfer of the year
Alyssa Getty of Kingsville won the 2014 Windsor Essex Sports Person of the Year (WESPY) Award for Female Golfer of the Year. This was the second year in a row for the 17-yearold golfer who plays out of the Kingsville Golf and Country Club.
Last year Alyssa became the youngest nominee and recipi-
Aubri Andre had some very special visitors to her hospital bed at Calgary Sick Kids on March 25. Aubri was at the hospital to start a full day of chemotherapy. That evening Olympic gold medalist Meghan Agosta stopped in.
The Leamington Flyers celebrate their team’s first-ever Junior ‘B’ Western Conference championship after defeating the Chatham Maroons 1-0 at Heinz Arena Thursday, April 3. Mitch Amante scored the only goal with 3:18 remaining in regulation.
in the in the in the in the in the
ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20
It may seem that you have your head in the clouds, Aries. But you know that you have everything under control. Disregard the critics and keep plugging away.
TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, look inside yourself for the solution to a problem that has puzzled you. You understand the situation better than anyone else, so bear down and find the solution.
GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21
There is no easy way out of the work you have to get done, Gemini. Just hunker down and accept that these tasks have to be completed before you can move on.
CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22
You may feel some pressure from higher-ups, Cancer. But don't allow that pressure to distract you from the tasks at hand. You will get things done on time.
LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, after weeks of running around, it is finally time to kick your feet up and relax. The concept may seem strange to you, but soon enough you will get the hang of it.
VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you have been stuck on a problem but the solution is right around the corner. Perhaps you should change your perspective and go about it in a new way.
LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23
Focus on the positives of a new venture even if you're nervous about the outcome, Libra. If you let negative thoughts slide in you can quickly be overwhelmed.
ANSWERS ON PAGE 14
SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22
New possibilities seem to arise out of nowhere, Scorpio. Embrace the good fortune coming your way and make the most of these wonderful and exciting opportunities.
SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21
It will take some energy to referee a situation at home, Sagittarius. Strong personalities can clash at times, but you have a way of working through the obstacles.
CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20
Don't try to hide your emotions this week, Capricorn. If others know just how you are feeling they will be more likely to offer a helping hand and some valuable advice.
AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18
You have an infectious amount of energy this week, Aquarius. That will serve you well because many things are piling up on your to-do list. You're ready to meet tasks head-on.
PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20
Do you feel like you're being pulled in too many directions, Pisces? Let up on accepting any new responsibilities for now.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
DECEMBER 28
Joe Manganiello, Actor (38) DECEMBER 29
Alexa Ray Joel, Singer (29) DECEMBER 30
Kristin Kreuk, Actress (32) DECEMBER 31
Richie McCaw, Athlete (34)
JANUARY 1
Meryl Davis, Athlete (28)
JANUARY 2
Dax Shepard, Actor (40)
JANUARY 3
Danica McKellar, Actress (40)
returns to Pelee
Point Pelee National Park is once again chirping with activity.
The park’s annual Festival of Birds officially began Thursday, May 1 and ran until May 19, during which time an estimated 30,000 birding enthusiasts converge upon the site to witness and photograph hundreds of species of migratory songbirds returning after a cold, harsh winter.
The event’s opening weekend featured guided tours by renowned birding authority David Allen Sibley.
Leamington selects Peter Neufeld as new CAO
Mayor John Paterson and Municipal Council announced the appointment of Peter Neufeld to the position of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the Municipality of Leamington.
Neufeld will be replacing retiring CAO Bill Marck who has held the top administrative position for 28 years.
“We undertook an extensive search to fill the position of CAO, and Peter demonstrated he had the attributes and demeanor we were searching for. We are confident he will lead the community into continued prosperity and growth for years to come” said Mayor Paterson.
Neufeld, 51, is a resident of Leamington with a great reputation for leadership, personability and strategic thinking. He has strong ties to Leamington and demonstrates a commitment to the continued success of the community.
Due to the Holiday Season the movie listings were not available at press time.
Please check our facebook page or www.imaginecinemas.com for this week’s movie listings.
Sorry for any inconvenience. Thank you! Happy New Year!
Neufeld has extensive senior management experience including Director of Labour Relations at Windsor Regional Hospital, Chief Operating Officer at Windsor Utilities Commission, and partner at Pearsall, Marshall, Seaton & Neufeld LLP.
Taxi cabs targeted in safety blitz
in Leamington
On Friday, May 23 the Ministry of Transportation (MTO), supported by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Leamington By-law enforcement officer, conducted a traffic safety blitz targeting taxi cabs in Leamington.
A total of 18 taxi cabs were inspected and 11 were removed from the road for various vehicle defects.
Of the 18 taxi cabs, 17 were found to have some sort of problem that required repairs.
Several charges were laid in relation to unsafe vehicles.
Leamington has five taxi cab companies – Leamington Taxi, Nader’s Taxi, Sun Parlor Cabs, Yellow Taxi and Elite Taxi.
“Our officers pulled over cabs and sent them to the MTO testing site that was set up at the Canadian Tire parking lot,” confirmed OPP Constable Stephanie Moniz
The vehicles will be allowed to return to the road, once all the necessary repairs have been completed.
BANK THEATRE NOTES
10 ERIE STREET SOUTH P.O. BOX 434
LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3W5 519-326-8805
MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR
You have probably had a very busy December, and thanks to our donors, volunteers, audiences, actors, musicians and directors, so has The Bank Theatre and Meeting Place. Here is a list of activities that took place at The Bank Theatre in December.
ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST by Dan Wasserman, based on the novel by Ken Kesey.
Dec. 4th. - One hundred students from Leamington District Secondary School saw the production.
Dec. 4th. - Opening night.
ARE YOU AFFECTED BY SOMEONE ELSE'S DRINKING? The Wheatley Serenity Al-Anon Family Group meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the Wheatley Friendship Club (north entrance), 171 Erie St. N.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 2 - Free Tim Hortons Holiday Skate at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex. Bring the whole family to skate in the Unico Arena. 249 Sherk St. Leamington.
JANUARY 6, 7, 8 - The art of Taoist Tai Chi™ is an effective natural way to restore and maintain your health. If you are interested in learning how to reduce your stress level, improve your circulation and balance, as well as increase your strength and flexibility please attend one of the following free open houses: Tuesday January 6 and Thursday January 8 from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Wednesday January 7 from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m. Location: The Church of St. John the Evangelist, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington, 519-255-9744, www.taoist.org.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7 - Can you spare an hour of your time to
help save a life. Bring a friend and donate blood at the LEAMINGTON BLOOD DONOR CLINIC at the Kinsmen Recration Complex, 249 Sherk Street, 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. NEW DONORS AND WALK INS WELCOME. Call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888 236-6283) for information and to book your appointment.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7Shooters Photography Club Meeting, 7:00 - 10:00 p.m., Colasanti's Tropical Gardens (Willow Room in food court), 1550 Rd. 3E, Ruthven. Please use west parking. Visit facebook.com for meeting and club info. For further details contact George at gshiefer@cogeco.ca. Everyone welcome!
TUESDAYS - Epilepsy Support group meetings are held the first Tuesday of the month, 10:00 a.m.12:00 noon, at the Windsor United Way office, 300 Giles Blvd. E., Windsor. New members welcome. Info: Windsor/Essex Epilepsy Support Centre, 519-890-6614, epilepsywindsor@epilepsysupport.ca or visit the website at www.epilepsysupport.ca.
WEDNESDAYS - Are you looking
for food and fellowship? Join us, no charge, at St. John’s Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington, from 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Call 519-326-3111 for more information.
VOLUNTEER DRIVERS ARE NEEDED to transport people in Essex County and Chatham-Kent for dialysis treatments. Reimbursement of mileage is at .40 cents per km driven. We are in need of volunteer drivers to provide these essential appointments. To volunteer call 519-728-1435, long distance 1855-728-1433, or visit us at 499 Notre Dame St., Belle River.
IF YOU HAVE PARKINSON and would like to join our group for information, exercise and support, come by Tuesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. to the Half Century Club, 160 Talbot St. E. Leamington.
SEXAHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETS WEEKLY in Leamington. As a fellowship of recovering addicts, SA offers a message of hope to anyone who suffers from sex or porn addiction. For more information, email sa.leamington@gmail.com.
Dec. 5th - Twelve distinguished employees of LIBRO CREDIT UNION were introduced and thanked by Barbara Martens, (vice-president of the Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre). She stressed how each of these people went the second mile for us so that we received the generous amount of $l05,000 dollars from LIBRO’S Community Builder Program. The production was then enjoyed by everyone.
Dec. 6th. - Public performance.
Dec. 7th - The final performance, Sunday afternoon, was sold out. Thank you to the nineteen students, (ten boys and nine girls), who entertained us and made us believe that we were in mental hospital watching an incredible story unfold. Thank you to the teacher/director, Joel Lewsaw, who makes it all happen.
Dec. 12th - Over one hundred children and parents enjoyed HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS by Dr. Seuss. This shortened version by the South Essex Community Council’s New Canadians was directed by Tiffany Nohra. Many of the children had never been on a stage before, and we are delighted that their first experience could be at The Bank Theatre. An elf told me that Santa Claus was especially jolly and nice, gave parents great photo opportunities, and most importantly, gave the children great memories.
Dec. 19th - Dale Butler’s LAST COFFEE HOUSE OF THE MONTH. Music was provided by Nicole Barron, Dale, Gord Harwood, Paul Jones and other talented musicians. Thank-you to Judy Dehu for donating the poinsettias which have graced the foyer of The Bank Theatre for the month of December.
The board and members of The Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre and The Bank Theatre would like to acknowledge the generous support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation and Libro Credit Union, for major grants (exceeding $100,000) received during 2014 to assist with our ongoing renovations. Libro funds were used to purchase the adjacent building, which will be renamed The Libro Box Office and Trillium funds will assist in the installation of a new HVAC system. Thanks to both organizations!
The board and members of The Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre and The Bank Theatre would also like to thank Dominos Pizza for their recent generous donation of another $10,000 for the renovations at The Bank Theatre. Thank you!
If you would like to help us continue this renovation project, please hit the DONATE button on our website www.banktheatre.com. or call 519-326-8805 for further information. It is not too late to receive a tax deductible receipt for the year 2014.
Fiesta Mexicana at the ROMA Club held on Sunday, May 4 was a festival of cultural heritage. Pictured is one of the folkloric dancers who performed.
JUNE
Leamington will be home to new 10-bed hospice
The new 10-bed Erie Shores Hospice residential home kicked off its fundraising campaign with a “rock solid” groundbreaking on Thursday, June 5
It was an historic day, with the groundbreaking and capital campaign kickoff for the new 10-bed Erie Shores Campus Hospice residential home located across from Leamington District Memorial Hospital on a 3.4 acre parcel of land. More than 350 of Essex County’s residents, offi-
cials and business owners attended the fundraising campaign kick-off, where close to $500,000 in cash donations for room naming rights were presented to the Campaign Cabinet.
In addition to the 13 individual donations, Leamington Medical Village (Amicone Partners) donated 3.4 acres of land where the 10bed facility will be located to the north end of a proposed multi community and medical services campus.
Heinz Leamington closes its doors
The end of an era spanning more than a century
has come to an end in the Tomato Capital of Canada. Friday, June 27, 2014 marked one of the more somber days in Leamington’s history, as the H.J. Heinz facility officially closed its doors after 105 years of production. The factory is expected to open as early as July 14 under ownership of Highbury Canco, who will continue to create several of the same products as a Heinz co-packer.
The change of ownership translates into an estimated 250 full time jobs from the 700-plus who were employed prior to the closure announcement in the au-
tumn of last year.
The plant’s final day of operation under the Heinz name was one of mixed emotions for those who continued to work until the end of production. While many were saddened to reach a day most never expected prior to November of 2013, others were simply relieved for a stressful final string of days and weeks to come to an end.
“We just needed some closure from a 105-year era that’s come to an end,” said Heinz worker Jan Bering. “Now everyone can move on to the next chapter of their lives.”
JULY
New sponsor steps forward for Tomato Festival
Heinz may be gone, but support for Leamington’s biggest annual weekend celebration is not.
Cathy and Doug Jennings (Kleinburg, Ontario), Martin and Bethany Paehr (Blenheim, Ontario) and your grandchildren – Gregory, Taryn, Daniel, Noah and Joshua. They will have a celebration with family to honour this special day in their lives.
Mastronardi Enterprises Ltd. has officially been announced as the main sponsor of the event, now dubbed the Leamington Sunset Tomato Festival. Sunset, the brand name of products for Mastronardi Enterprises, is the focal point of the festival’s new logo.
“The Heinz closure is obviously very hard for the community,” said Festival director Mike Ciacelli. “We wanted to make sure something as iconic as the Tomato Fest remained locally sponsored and locally run. Right now our community needs as much support as possible. We’re very excited for the Leamington Sunset Tomato Fest. We couldn’t have asked for a better sponsor.” Mastronardi Enterprises Ltd. CEO and president Paul Mastronardi was approached by Tomato Festival past chairperson Dave Campbell with the proposal to offer primary sponsorship for the event. Mastronardi, whose family is a part of the 105-year-old Heinz legacy, was receptive to the idea and ambitious with the plan to step forward and fill the festival’s void.
Donor gives $1.6 million in scholarships
When one door closes, another one opens… Friday, June 27 was sure to be a sad day in Leamington. It marked the closing of the 104-year old H.J. Heinz Company and the loss of
740 jobs. The community had braced for this day since the original announcement in November, 2013. But on that same day, a stranger changed the lives of at least 40 Grade 8 graduating students and their families. On the last school day at Queen of Peace Catholic Elementary School a special meeting of the parents was called. To the surprise and delight of everyone present it was announced that each of the 40 graduates from the class of 2014 would receive a scholarship worth $10,000 per year for four years for their post secondary education. All they have to do is attend and graduate from a catholic high school.
Local pipe band attends memorial service in St. John’s A catastrophe of World War I was marked with a Memorial Service in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and the Sun Parlour Pipes and Drums played a significant part. July 1, 1916, in the battle of Beaumont-Hamel the Newfoundland Regiment, in conjunction with 1st Essex Regiment, was to attack through No Man’s Land. Approximately 800 Newfoundlanders went forward; only 68 were available for roll call the next morning. The parade to the St. John’s War Memorial brought forth the emotions of hundreds and hundreds of descendents remembering the sacrifice. The mounted and marching local police force and RCMP were led by our local Sun Parlour Pipes and Drums, along with a band in authentic World War I Newfoundland Regiment dress and a youthful Militia in complete World War I uniforms underscoring the loss of so many brave young men.
Ontario), Victor and Geri-lyn Paehr (Windsor, Ontario),
Groundbreaking for hospice on June 5.
John Stitzinger of Essex took top honours and the $1,500 prize for the first annual Leamington Walleye Derby, hosted Saturday, July 19 by the Leamington Municipal Marina. Despite poor weather conditions, the contest reeled in more than 500 entries. Stitzinger’s top catch measured 31.5 inches in length.
SSAA Tier II junior boys basketball game at LDSS Thursday, Dec. 18. The Lions led 13-11 and 22-18 at the first two buzzes, but the Cougars stormed back in the second half to earn a 5739 victory and maintain an undefeated 5-0 record. Mark Jraiche led Cardinal Carter with 37 points as Ryan Raffoul contributed with 11.
Jason Tannous of the Cougars is surrounded by Marshall Garrod, Anthony Fehr, Noah Friesen and Matt Kroeker of the Lions as he releases a pass deep in Leamington territory during a WEC-
Leamington’s Osmerlin Garcia puts some distance between the ball and Cardinal Carter’s Justin Faustino during a Thursday, Dec. 18 WECSSAA Tier II senior boys basketball game at LDSS. The Cougars controlled most of the game, marching to a 50-26 win to improve its record to 2-3 while the Lions fell to 1-4. Sheldon Foldesi, Chris Tannous and Faustino added 11 points each to the Cardinal Carter half of the scoreboard while Alex Goncalves chipped in with 10. Ryan Tilson led LDSS with 13 points.
Folk Festival fun
It was a family affair all weekend in Kingsville at the Kingsville Folk Music Festival 2014.
The inaugural event for the town attracted thousands and featured a wide variety of folk music entertainers for all ages. The headliner for the weekend was Bruce Cockburn, who played several sets including an impromptu concert Saturday afternoon to the delight of the crowd.
Other performers included Fred Penner, Valdy, Ken Whiteley, J.P. Cormier, Jaron Freeman-Fox and the Opposite of Everything, Trent Severn, Fish and Bird and several others. The event was the brainchild of John and Michele Law but was a success with the help of hundreds of volunteers.
Golf tourney for hospice raises $96,000!
Hospice of Windsor and Essex County Inc.’s efforts to raise funds for an Erie Shores campus in Leamington has taken a massive step forward. Julie DiSchiavo and a committee of family and friends held the Masters For Moe charity golf tournament in honour of Julie’s late husband Moe Friday, Aug. 8 at the Kingsville Golf and Country Club.
The one-time event raised an estimated $96,000, nearly doubling the $50,000 organizers were hoping to raise in order to have one of the future facility’s 10 rooms dedicated to Moe.
The committee of 12 people began sending out invitations to the tournament in June of this year. A total of 160
golfers from across the Kingsville-Leamington area as well as others from Toronto, London, Chatham and Michigan paid the $350 entry fee to take part in the 11:30 a.m., Texas Scramble, best-ball event. Participants were arranged into teams of four and were among the combined 360 dinner guests at 7 p.m. following the tournament. Dinner tickets sold at $125 apiece.
Celeste Dancel crowned Miss Sunset Tomato Festival Queen For 17-year-old Celeste Dancel, the 2014 Miss Leamington Tomato Festival Scholarship Pageant had a fairy tale ending. The senior student from Cardinal Carter Secondary School was crowned the 2014 Queen of the pageant. She also won the Miss Entrepreneur Award for raising more than $3,600 of the $8,100 total raised by all nine contestants. “I can’t beleive it. Tonight I fulfilled a childhood dream... I always wanted to be competent and confidant and thanks to the pageant I am a totally different person than when I started the competition,” said Celeste moments after being crowned by 2013 Miss Tomato Festival Pageant Queen Jessica Epp.
Jeffery joins Team Ontario
Leamington Bantam Lakers outfielder Jessica Jeffery will be joining Team Ontario this week to compete in the 2014 Baseball Canada 16U Girls Invitational Championship being held in Saguenay, Quebec. After Friday night’s game the Lakers got together and polished off some doughnuts as a “send-off” for Jessica, their friend, teammate and “favourite player on Team Ontario,” added Laker shortstop Brett Enns. “We will be checking social media to see how she does and to follow her team.” Jeffery, 15, left Tuesday morning on the trek to Saguenay. The tournament starts Thursday with the finals scheduled for Sunday. The championship is a nine-team tournament with teams representing Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, Quebec (2) and Saskatchewan.
RECREATION EVENTS RECREATION EVENTS
Happy New Year
Chestnut Park renovated for reality show Kids’ television production companies can’t seem to keep their eyes off Leamington. For the second time in just under a year, the Tomato Capital of Canada found itself in the TV camera’s lens — most recently as the feature community for an episode of TVO Kids’ reality show “Giver.” Produced by Sink-
from All of Us at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex!
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Tim Horton FREE Skate! Bring the Family to the Unico Arena, January 2 at 1:00 p.m.3:00 p.m.
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Complex Fitness Instructors lead amazing cardio and strength classes. And even during the holidays they’ve put together a condensed Fitness and Aquatic schedule….. If you’re not a member, check it out and pay the Single visit fee - plan to attend: Christmas Cardio, Polar Bear AquaDip-Ness, Santa’s Walking Workout, and Candy Cane Cardiojust to name a few. See the Holiday Schedules on the Website. Try Pickleball, Rec. Gym, Badminton, the Walking/Jogging track and Rec. Skating! You benefit with so much diversity with a SHERK COMPLEX Membership!
The Complex is HIRING Motivate others, and Keep yourself In-Shape with a part-time job in Fitness & Aqua Fitness!
Rock ‘n Swims - Fri. Jan. 2 and Fri. Jan. 16. Bring the family to the Complex Pool from 7:15 - 9:00 p.m. Chuck Reynolds DJ Music is sponsored by UMEI Christian High School. Canadian Blood Services - Complex Gym Wed. Jan. 7 from 1:00 - 7:00 p.m. Call 1888-2-Donate. Walk-ins also welcome. Help to save a LIFE this holiday season. Visit the Complex website: leamington.ca – link to Recreation. The new Winter 2 & Spring guide will be posted online about Jan. 9. All sorts of new programs: Sport Yoga, Metabolic Repair Program, Adult Triathlon Clinic - and an extra Yoga for Youth class for Youth ages 9-12 years starts on Thurs. Jan 8 so you can register now for Yoga for Youth.
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249 Sherk St., Leamington 519-322-2337 email: complex@leamington.ca
ing Ship Entertainment, Giver allows half-a-dozen youths ages six to 12 to plan, design and help build or reconstruct a playground facility in their own home town.
The 11-person production crew, along with its own team of three contractors, arrived in Leamington to conduct a complete makeover of Chestnut Park’s playground equipment Wednesday, Aug. 20 and Thursday, Aug. 21. Mayor John Paterson led a grand reopening of the facility — originally built in 1988 — following its completion on Friday, Aug. 22. Filming began 356 days after Balestra Productions recorded an episode of TFO’s “Les Jumelles” (The Twins), which officially began at Lloyd Wilkinson Park — about a two-kilometre drive southeast of Chestnut Park.
An estimated 220 communities from across Ontario submitted applications to become the focal point for one of 10 episodes of Giver’s third season. Leamington was informed of it’s being selected for season three in April. The closest community to also offer a successful bid was Sarnia for season two.
Investigation leads to drug arrests
Multiple forces combined their efforts to make multiple drug-related arrests in Leamington. Members of the OPP Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau (OCEB), the Drug Enforcement Unit of Windsor and Essex County OPP Street Crimes Unit worked together with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Ministry of Finance in an investigation that led to search warrants executed at Erie Convenience situated at 91 Erie St. South in Leamington.
The investigation began after police received information on the alleged sale of illegal narcotics at the convenience store.
The search warrants were executed on the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 27. Two additional search warrants were executed at residents on Emerson Ave. and Sturgeon Meadows — also in Leamington — in relation to the same investigation.
Four suspects were arrested while the search warrant was implemented, as police seized fentanyl, oxycontin, money, contraband tobacco, a 2000 Chrysler Intrepid and a 2005 GMC Envoy.
Presteve Foods employee Abe Schmidt dumps a fish bucket full of ice water on company president Ulysses Pratas to conclude their ALS Ice Bucket Challenge Wednesday, Aug. 27. In 24 hours, Presteve’s 200 employees raised $820 for ALS.
SEPTEMBER
Arrest made in downtown
pellet gun shooting
The Essex County OPP has apprehended a suspect involved in a downtown Leamington shooting that took place at roughly 12:30 p.m. Friday. A 33-year-old Leamington man faces several charges after shooting a male victim in the face and body several times with a pellet gun early in the afternoon Sept. 5. The incident took place within the 100 block of Leamington’s Talbot Street East. The man and the victim knew each other prior to the incident.
Officers and the OPP K-9 unit were called to the area immediately east of the Talbot Street/Erie Street intersection, where they blocked off Princess Street from Talbot to Mill Street as well as the north side of Talbot from Wellington to Victoria Streets.
Feds invest $3 million in local ag company
Competitive Green Technologies of Leamington has once again captured the attention of the federal government. On Tuesday, Sept. 9, Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced a $3 million investment di-
rected toward CGT on behalf of the Stephen Harper government in its efforts to vault Canada into a lead role in the agricultural bio resin industry. About 15 months after Chatham-Kent-Essex MP Dave Van Kesteren announced a repayable contribution of $360,000 to CGT in support of its biotechnology processing endeavours, Ritz made a stop at the same facility to declare the nonrepayable investment — more than eight times larger than the first.
Technology used to turn non-food fibres grown on the 800 acres surrounding CGT’s Mersea Road 7 location into bio resins and sustainable agri-based materials was developed at the University of Guelph’s Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre.
Leamington earns 5 blooms in Communities in Bloom competition
The Communities in Bloom members pulled together and engaged the community of Leamington to earn a 5 bloom award from the Ontario Communities in Bloom on Sat. Sept. 13. The Leamington Communities in Bloom committee did in three months, what usually takes years to achieve - a 5
bloom rating! In its first year of competition, the Leamington group pulled together and organized the various sub-committees who earned top marks in tidiness, environmental action, heritage conservation, urban forestry, floral displays, community involvement, youth involvement and community of gardeners. Leamington won a criteria award for its floral displays. Judges toured the area in the summer. Leamington received a score of 82.12 earning it the top rating of 5 blooms.
And they’re off!
Harness horse racing returns to Leamington
Leamington Raceway sprung to life Sat. Sept. 13 with live harness horse racing. Ten races were scheduled for the day, the second of the 13 event season following the Sept. 7 kickoff. The second date included kids entertainer Sunshine the Clown, face painting and a kids’ colouring contest.
100 Women Who Care supports Leamington hospice Donations to the Hospice of Windsor and Essex County’s Erie Shores Cam-
pus in Leamington continue to arrive. The recentlyformed 100 Women Who Care Windsor-Essex met with a variety of Leamington hospice representatives to make one of their quarterly $10,000 charitable donations. The groups met behind the Leamington Medical Village at 197 Talbot St. West — across the road from Leamington District Memorial Hospital — where the future 10-room Erie Shores hospice will be constructed. Although 100 Women Who Care WindsorEssex bases itself on the objective of making four $10,000 donations to various local charitable causes per year, the sums of their contributions often vary.
As of the Tuesday, Sept. 16 outdoor meeting behind the Leamington Medical Village, the contribution to the Erie Shores hospice stood at $11,100 with more cheques to follow.
Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre gets OTF support for arts programming in Leamington
The Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre celebrated their newly awarded Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) grant with community members during a fundraising banquet at the Rhine Danube Community
Club on Saturday, September 20. With the help of a one-year $138,000 OTF grant, the community theatre will be able to get a new HVAC system, a hydraulic lift, and audio-visual and computer equipment. This will support arts programming in Leamington. These upgrades will allow volunteers to work on stage more safely and enhance the quality of presentations, performances and other events taking place at the facility.
Ice Bucket Challenge reaches St. Louis Catholic School
Staff members at St. Louis Catholic Elementary School were more than happy to get ‘soaked’ for about $200. The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge officially paid a visit to the Leamington school Friday, Sept. 12, when principal Kelly Rilley and vice principal Bob Flanagan were
dunked with containers of ice water in front of the entire student body. To the pleasant surprise of the 330 students, 16 additional staff members were also soaked with buckets of chilly water at the same time as part of the ALS research fundraiser.
Citizen of the Year
Susan Ross was very surprised and honoured to be named as Leamington’s 2014 Citizen of the Year at the Municipality of Leamington 2014 Volunteer Recognition Reception held on Tuesday, September 23 at the Leamington Marina. Since 1989 the Municipality of Leamington has been honouring a Citizen of the Year.
Each year the name of the recipient of this award engraved on a silver plate, which was graciously donated by Peter and Margaret Tombs from Royal Leamington Spa, England.
January 31
october
Getty wins in age group in Australia Kingsville’s Alyssa Getty, age 17, represented Canada Oct. 1-4 at the Srixon International Junior Classic in Australia where she won her age group in a play-off and came home with a crystal trophy and a Srixon International Junior Champion golf bag.
For the last 6 years, Team Canada Maple Leaf has sent athletes to Australia to compete at the Srixon International Junior Classic and Alyssa is the first junior golfer from Canada to ever to win at this prestigious event. Alyssa shot a final round 74 and placed 11th overall after 72 holes in this elite field of golfers from Thailand, Japan, South Africa, USA, Australia, and Canada.
Queen of Peace student wins art contest
When Libro Credit Union announced the three winners of its 2015 youth calendar contest recently, “Amazing Adventures in Southwestern Ontario”, Owen Pimentel of Wheatley was thrilled to be named. “We asked youth to submit a drawing celebrating their favourite community pursuits, passions and activities,” said Tania Goodine, Libro Credit Union Executive Vice President, Engagement. The winners received a $500 RESP contribution, a $200 gift card (at either Toys R Us or Best Buy) and $1,000 for their school or youth group. The winning drawings will be featured in Libro’s 2015 calendar.
Second Ko cancer fundraiser exceeds goal Cancer has taken another severe beating in Leamington. The Leamington Portuguese Club hosted the second Knock Out Cancer fundraiser for Transition To Betterness (T2B) Friday, Oct. 10, a biannual event that again sold out with a maximum capacity crowd of about 1,000 spectators. In 2012, the event raised $90,000 to help support T2B, which has assisted local families with the costs associated with treatment of cancer and other diseases since 1997.
This year, about $59,000 was raised by the 10 boxers alone.
Leamington’s Freddy Sarkis of the final and co-feature bout led the way by raising $16,000, an effort that earned him a special fundraising trophy from T2B. Randy Saccuchi, decked out in customized purple trunks, also hit a five-digit figure by raising $10,000.
Local soccer player becomes national champ
Leamington’s Cesar Salan isn’t wasting any time making his way up through the soccer ranks. The local 14-year-old and his North London Elite U14 team captured this season’s Ontario Cup championship on their way to claiming the national title with four more consecutive wins in Charlottetown over the Thanksgiving weekend. Salan, whose family has lived in both London and Leamington, had made previous appearances in the Ontario Cup tournament, although his role in this year’s Canada-wide tournament was a first.
Southpoint Sun Stars win etobicoke tournament with 6 consecutive shutouts
The Southpoint Sun Stars traveled to Etobicoke to participate in the Pink the Rink V tournament in support of breast cancer awareness and came away with a victory winning all 6 games without giving up a goal. In Sunday afternoon’s final the Stars faced the undefeated North Bay Ice Boltz. With less than a minute remaining in the first period, on a goalmouth scramble, Grace Hyatt poked a loose puck free and Morgan Brown swept it into the net to put the Stars up 1-0. Just 2 minutes later Darigan Chambers fired a shot over the shoulder of the goalie on a feed from Abbey Hopper to put the Stars up 2-0 and still pressing for more. After many back and forth chances, the Stars defensive game prevailed and the tournament victory was secured with a 2-0 win. A great weekend of hockey capped by a tournament victory and a great defensive effort by the Stars with Natalie Edmondson earning 6 consecutive shutouts and not allowing an opposing player to bulge the twine all weekend
Paterson keeps his seat as Leamington Mayor
After a three-hour wait for the first-ever all internet voting results in Leamington, John Paterson breathed a sigh of relief as he nearly tripled his sole opponent Charlie Wright. The incumbent Paterson garnered 5273 votes over his rival, current deputy-mayor Wright, who collected 1826 votes. Voter turnout was 42 per cent, down from 49 per cent in the 2010 Municipal Election. “I’m very, very happy. I’m very thankful to the voters of Leamington. I’m so glad that Hilda and I and Council can get down to work. We have two new councillors to work with as well. I look forward to moving this town forward in a positive way for the next four years,” said Paterson.
Mennonite Home Gala raises almost $62,000
About 400 guests enjoyed ‘A Night at the Races’ Saturday evening at the Portuguese Club, as the Leamington Mennonite Home celebrated its annual fundraising gala. Almost $62,000 was raised which will help purchase resident care lifts for the home. Cochairs Linda Tiessen and Evelyn Greenwood were delighted with the response to the event and thrilled with the outcome. Connie Bradt was the lucky winner of the $3,000 grand prize.
NoveMber
ob dilemma at LDMH reaches Municipal council Monday night, Nov. 10, Leamington Council received a petition to save the obstetrical unit at Leamington District Memorial Hospital. In addition, they read the unanimous opinion of Kingsville Council that it must be saved. It was time for Leamington’s municipal government to take a stand, but part of the difficulty facing Council was the knowledge of what led the trustees of the hospital to make such a painful announcement.
MPP Nicholls calls on Minister of Health for support of LDMH ob program
On Thursday, November 6, Chatham-Kent-Essex MPP Rick Nicholls called on Minister of Health and Long-Term Care
Eric Hoskins to protect Leamington District Memorial Hospital’s Obstetrics Clinic, which may be set to close next year. “The Leamington District Memorial Hospital Board of Directors is being forced to close Leamington’s Obstetrics Unit due to a lack of funding. This closure will result in the firing of up to 40 good paying jobs, including Registered Nurses,” Nicholls said. “This places Leamington’s economic recovery in jeopardy, but more importantly it puts the health of local residents in further jeopardy. Mothers going into labour will now be forced to make the long drive to Windsor. With millions of dollars spent on middle management in health care, why is there no room for Leamington’s vital clinic?” Nicholls asked.
LHIN presented with 7,500 signatures and four hours of community input in support of keeping LDMH ob open
Approximately 400 concerned Leamington and Essex County residents filled the Roma Club on Wednesday, November 12 to let the Erie St. Clair Local Health Integration Network (ESC LHIN) know that this community is not ready to give up its obstetrics unit without a fight. The special open board meeting of the ESC LHIN Board was moved to Leamington to gain input from community leaders, stakeholders, and the general public regarding the proposed program changes at Leamington District Memorial Hospital (LDMH).
The meeting, which started at 5 p.m. and ended at approximately 9:30 p.m., was divided into sections allowing community stakeholders to speak, followed by a dozen registered public speakers.
“Tonight is about listening,” said LHIN Board Chairman Martin Girash before the first speakers began. LDMH Chief Execeutive Officer (CEO) Terry Shields and LDMH Board member John Newland reiterated the hospital’s ongoing funding shortfall and the dilemma created that forced the board to accept the realignment of services recommendations from the commissioned Hay Report, which includes closing the obstetrics department at LDMH.
thiessen orchards assists local families
Leamington’s Thiessen Orchards donated 12,000 pounds of apples to families who receive services from the WindsorEssex Children’s Aid Society last week. This equates to approximately 1,200 bags of the fall fruit. This generous gift upholds the importance of healthy eating and good nutrition that is so important to positive child development and maintaining strong families.
“After some discussion with a friend who works at CAS, we determined there was a situation in our community whereby some families would benefit if they were given a bag of ap-
ples. Thiessen Orchards felt this was a great idea and wanted to give back to the community that supported us this fall and many years in the past. We hope that this donation of 12,000 pounds of apples brings some joy to the families that receive them,” said Andrew Thiessen, owner of Thiessen Orchards.
Getty earns Full-ride Scholarship Golf phenomenon Alyssa Getty signed her letter of intent Friday, Nov. 14, to attend the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, next year. A small celebration to mark the occasion was held at the Kingsville Golf and Country Club Friday afternoon.
Getty earned a full-ride scholarship based on her outstanding golf career. In addition, she was named to Golfweek’s Top 50 list of most influential players to watch, coming in at #45, for the class of 2015.
Leamington Stuff the bus toy drive a success
As if spending a weekend on a small-scale bus wasn’t cramped enough, Leamington resident Carlos Delgado wound up sharing the temporary accommodations with more than 500 roommates. The first annual Help Carlos Stuff The Bus toy drive was a huge success for Delgado and the Leamington branch of the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society, as 517 new, unwrapped donations were made to help brighten the holidays for local underprivileged families. The event began at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21 for the Freedom 55 financial advisor, who climbed aboard a bus delivered courtesy of Switzer-Carty Bus Lines. Delgado spent 52 hours camped out in the parking lot of the Tim Hortons restaurant on Erie Street South.
ob at LDMH to stay open while Panel reviews its viability
At its Thursday, November 27 Board Meeting, the Erie-St. Clair Local Health Integration Network directed Leamington District Memorial Hospital to keep the obstetrics unit open until further notice as a newly established advisory panel reviews the viability of obstetrical service in Leamington. The OB service was scheduled to end March 31, 2015. Board Chair for the Erie-St. Clair LHIN Martin Girash stated LDMH will be getting a waiver to exempt the hospital from its financial responsibility to not run a deficit budget.
Libro donated $105,000 to the bank theatre
The Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre’s efforts to expand the space of a former financial institution has been met by a massive showing of support from a current one. During Libro Credit Union’s recognition event held Thursday, Nov. 27 — the first of its kind in the Essex-Kent region — support for 10 local organizations was announced to the combined tune of $255,000. The SPPCT’s Box Office Building project was the recipient of not only the largest grant among the 10 Chatham-Kent/Windsor-Essex groups, but also the biggest throughout Libro’s operating range spanning Southwestern Ontario. For 2014, the Libro Community Builder Awards Ceremony included 39 organizations from Windsor to Kitchener, receiving grants from the $3,265 to Community Café in Belle River to the SPPCT’s $105,000.
Arrest made for possession of stolen cell phone
On November 23 a 17-year-old male had been assisting police by providing a statement for a motor vehicle collision he had just witnessed. After providing the statement he realized he’d lost his cell phone. While searching the area for the phone, he was approached by another male and told him that he had lost his phone and gave this male his girlfriend’s phone number in case it was found. Shortly after that his girlfriend’s phone rang and the caller told the owner of the lost phone if he wanted it back he had to pay $250. The owner of the phone then proceeded to the OPP Detachment in Leamington. While there, his girlfriend’s phone rang and was answered by an OPP officer who did not identify himself as a police officer. He told the male that he would get the money and meet him at a restaurant in Leamington. The male with the phone said that he would be wearing a “Thug Life” sweatshirt. Police attended the scene and located the male with the phone. He was arrested for possession of stolen property and released.
SOUTHPOINT SUN
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eh48@hotmail.ca
KINGSVILLE LEGION BRANCH 188 Friday Night Dinners 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Weekly Specials $12.00 (Ribs or Perch). Other weekly menu items $10.00. Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month 8:00 p.m. Brunch every 2nd Sunday of the month 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Senior Dances every 3rd Sunday of the month. 519-733-5162 (office) or 519-733-9081 (bar). oc29-tf
All claims against the Estate of MARIE ANITA MAE WHITE, late of the Municipality of Leamington, in the County of Essex, who died on or about the 25th day of October, 2014 must be filed with the undersigned personal representative on or before the 30th day of January, 2015. Thereafter the undersigned will distribute the assets of the estate having regard only to the claims then filed.
Dated: December 22nd, 2014.Elvey B. Marshall PEARSALL, MARSHALL & SEATON LLP. Barristers and Solicitors 22 Queens Avenue Leamington, Ontario N8H 3G8
SOUTHPOINT SUN
GREENHOUSE WORKERS
Permanent • Full Time • Day • Weekend (8 Vacancies)
• Candidates will be working in the greenhouse as packers.
• Experience not necessary. Repetitive tasks, bending, crouching.
• Salary: $11.00 hourly, 40 hours per week.
• Start Date: April 1, 2015
Apply by Mail: P.O. Box 61 Leamington, ON N8H 3W1
Apply by Fax: 519-326-6130
Apply by Email: humanresources@amcogroup.biz
MIDDLE EASTERN PASTRY CHEF
• Prepare dough for pastries, cakes, rolls and bread.
• Operate equipment, ensure product quality and supervise personnel.
• Minimum 3 years experience in restaurant cooking pastries with apprenticeship training.
• $22 per hour, 40 hours a week. GM@TALBOTRAILINN.COM
STURGEON WOODS RVis looking for a full time or part time salesperson. Fax resume to 519-326-6567. no12-tf
PINNACLE ACRES REQUIRES Full time greenhouse general labourers. $11.00/hr, 50+ hours, 7 days/wk. Must be available Saturday and Sunday. Work site: 333 County Rd. 18 Leamington ON, rural setting, must have own transportation. Crop maintenance and harvesting, other duties as required. Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 lbs on a repetitive basis, fast paced environment, strong work ethic, punctual, reliable. Please apply via: email pinnaclejobs@hotmail.com or fax: 519-326-9253. No experience or education required. oc15-tf
Armstrong Top Pack Ltd. is hiring 50 permanent, full time vegetable packers for its Leamington location to start as soon as possible. The wage rate is $11.00 for 44.0 hours per week. You should be able to lift up to 50 lbs. on a repetitive basis and be able to sort and pack fruits and vegetables in a fast paced environment.
No education or experience is required. Apply in person from 9:00 to 5:00 at 500 County Road 18, Leamington, N8H3V5 or by email jobs@toppack.ca
ALUMINUM WELDERS, MILLWRIGHTS REQUIRED
This is not a production line envionment, therefore, operational initiative, experience of press brake, shear and blue print reading are considered strong assets, however, we will train selected candidiates. Wages commensurate on experience.
• 2-5 years experience necessary
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Straight days and overtime available Fax or Email resume to:
Attn: Frank Baptista - Plant Mgr Fax: 519-825-7572
Email: frank@hikemetal.com sales@hikemetal.com
Logging contractor with mechanical equipment needed to harvest app. 20,000m3 or more of softwood & possibly some hardwood. Stump to dump contract. 204-6892261 (pokrant@mts.net) Wabowden, MB.
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December
Queen elizabeth students thank veteran Students at Queen Elizabeth Public School had plenty to be thankful for and as such, were not hesitant to show their gratitude. Korean War veteran and Wheatley resident Glen Innes Dibbley received a surprise ‘Welcome Home’ party from Grade 4 to 8 students at the school Friday, Dec. 5 in the school’s gymnasium. The event was organized by teachers Tricia
Derbyshire and Jill Walker along with their 60 combined Grade 8 and 7 students, respectively. Following a stop at the school just prior to Remembrance Day, Dibbley was welcomed back for what he believed would be a casual, low-key cup of coffee. Instead, he was led to the gymnasium where he was greeted by the school’s Grades 4 to 8 classes. Grades 7 and 8 drama students put on a silent theatrical performance of “What Actually Happened” and “What Should Have Happened” in regards to the return home of Canadian armed forces from Korea.
KDHS students raise $10,000 for charity Students and staff from Kingsville District High School rolled, walked and ran a 6-kilometre route around the community last week and finished with more than $10,000 to be split between two charitable organizations. For more than a decade, KDHS has held the Reindeer Run to celebrate the spirit of giving during the holiday season. They have expanded the event to include the Hospice Hustle. Students needed to collect and contribute at least $10 to take part. A friendly competition
pitted the Grade 9 and 12 students (Reindeer Running) for the Children’s Aid Society against the Grade 10 and 11 students (Hustling for Hospice –Leamington, Erie Shores).
The 10s and 11s proved to have a little more spring in their step, raising slightly more money than the seniors and freshmen.
Little Hands have big hearts
Raising money to help sick children and their families
‘Little Hands – Kids for a Cause’, a child-inspired and led charity, whose intent is to raise money for local children inflicted by life-threatening illnesses, is hosting two holiday fundraisers running until December 15.
The two events, ‘Loonies for Little Hands’ and the ‘Little Hands Toy Drive’ are benefitting local families with ill children. There are several locations participating in the drives, where the public will find donation jars and boxes to place their loonies and unwrapped new toys.
All loonies collected will be given to sick children in the area and all toys will be donated to the Windsor Regional Hospital and London Health Sciences Child Life Programs.
The wish lists for both Child Life Programs are posted on the ‘Little Hands – Kids for a Cause’ Facebook page.
Girls win the can cup challenge at LDSS for Goodfellows
It was a really close race this year, but the girls managed to edge out the boys in the battle of the canned food challenge.
The girls totaled 18,632, compared to the boys 18,074. The girls were awarded the coveted Heinz Cup, which was quickly snatched and paraded through the halls at Leamington District Secondary School.
The real winners were the Leamington Goodfellows who use the canned food and monetary donations (approximately $9,000) to complete the Christmas Hamper Program this year.
The girls were proud to take back the trophy from the boys who won the friendly contest last year.
municipality hosts milestone wedding
Isabelle Carreira officiated the wedding of Laura Fanjoy and Angel Santos Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Leamington municipal of-
fice on Erie Street North in both English and Spanish. The ceremony was the 500th performed by the municipality and to mark the occasion, the couple received the service free of charge.
The happy couple also received a $75 gift certificate to The Gallery Restaurant and the bride’s bouquet and flowers were donated by The Flower Shop at Thiessen’s.
Fletcher’s cleaners celebrate 75 years
Fletcher’s Cleaners celebrated the business’s 75th anniversary on Friday, December 5. Art Fletcher opened the dry cleaning business at 52 Erie Street North (present day Pho Saigon) in 1939. It moved to its present location at 245 Erie Street South in the early 1960s.
Art’s son Doug Fletcher ran the business for a few years and then it left the family when it was sold to Dick Devries. Devries ended up selling Fletcher’s Cleaners to his good friend Joe Lamotte in 1984. Joe and his family ran the store until his son, Jeff and wife Maureen took over in 2008.
The Lamotte’s held a special drop in open house on Friday with treats and coffee for customers.
Giving Spoon raises $2,700 in two days
Bill Dunn, aka the Soup Guru, of the Giving Spoon, held a two-day soup fundraiser held on Saturday and Sunday, December 13 and 14 in the Community Room at the Leamington Real Canadian Superstore. On Saturday the group of community volunteers served eight soups and Sunday had 12 varieties to choose from. A total of almost $2,700 was raised for local charity groups. “Very blessed with all the support we had from the community and all the volunteers,” stated Dunn.
cO detectors donated to LFS
Nearly 100 Leamington homes will be safer places to live and sleep thanks to the efforts of Ontario’s municipal affairs critic and the Insurance Bureau of Canada. On Tuesday, Dec. 16, Chatham-Kent-Essex MPP Rick Nicholls and provincial municipal affairs and housing critic and Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman — along with Doug DeRabbie of the IBC — paid a visit to the Leamington Fire Services on Clark Street, where 96 carbon monoxide (CO) detectors were donated for distribution among Leamington-area residences. The visitors were greeted by LFS chief Chuck Parsons, deputy chief Mike Ciacelli, other members of the LFS and Leamington mayor John Paterson.
Goodfellows
distribute over 800 baskets
A much merrier Christmas was had by 230 Leamington families as a result of this year’s Goodfellows can drive. Over 800 baskets were delivered to families in need by many volunteers. This yearly event depends on the generosity of the citizens of Leamington, who supply the cans and cash donations for the LDSS Can Drive. Congratulations to the girls who won the trophy in a very close race with the boys. LDSS and UMEI students filled the baskets on Fri. Dec. 19. The cash donations, which are used to purchase items locally for the baskets, along with product donations from area farmers, canneries and businesses, all help to fill these baskets to overflowing. The entire operation is run by an army of volunteers who gladly give their time to help make this such a successful community program.
Local Korean War veteran Glen Innes Dibbley salutes during the Queen Elizabeth Public School band’s playing of O Canada in the school’s gymnasium Friday, Dec. 5.