Southpoint Sun - February 18, 2015

Local Gleaners shipping to North Korea

By Bryan Jessop

A historical first for the Southwestern Ontario Gleaners of Leamington has been celebrated with another.

The local Gleaners have announced that they will be making their first international aid shipment, a commitment that has captured attention and admiration from Ottawa. For the first time ever, a federal minister stopped by the 40 Industrial Drive location for a tour of the organization’s equipment and facilities. Haldimand-Norfolk MP and minister of public works and government affairs Diane Finley paid a visit along with Chatham-Kent-Essex MP Dave Van Kesteren Tuesday, Feb. 10. Other guests who toured the building and commemorated the groundbreaking announcement included Mennonite Central Committee Ontario executive director Rick Cober-Bauman, a Kitchener resident.

The MCC will take on the duties of shipping 200,000 meals of dehydrated vegetable soup mix prepared by the local Gleaners. Again using donations offered by local farmers and other agricultural operations, the SWO Gleaners’ team of volunteers went back and fourth between packaging and processing about three weeks prior to Finley’s visit. The bulk of the work was done over the past week and a half, utilizing 3.5 shifts of 15 volunteers per shift to take care of the packaging.

The only purchase necessary for the not-for-profit group was the addition of beans for protein. The four main ingredients of the three-pound/1,360-gram

bags are potatoes, carrots, squash and brussel sprouts. Other dry ingredients used include asparagus, barley, beets, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, corn, kale, lentils, onions, peas, peppers, spinach, tomatoes, yams, zucchini and salt.

The shipment to the national MCC headquarters in Plum Coulee, MB includes a load of five skids containing a total of 350 boxes with six bags of vegetable soup mix each for a sum of 2,100 bags. Once the storage unit in Manitoba contains

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From left to right, Chatham-Kent-Essex MPP Dave Van Kesteren, Haldimand-Norfolk MP and minister of public works and government affairs Diane Finley, Southwestern Ontario Gleaners chairperson Vern Toews, Mennonite Central Committee Ontario executive director Rick Cober-Bauman, and MCC Leamington representative Barry Bergen pose in front of a shipment of vegetable soup mix to be sent to North Korean orphanages — the Gleaners’ first international delivery. (SUN Photos)

Chatham-Kent-Essex MP Dave Van Kesteren listens as Haldimand-Norfolk MP and minister of public works and government affairs Diane Finley comments on the Southwestern Ontario Gleaners facility and services during a visit to the 40 Industrial Road location Tuesday, Feb. 11.

A life without Bell… well with less Bell

A friend of mine got rid of Bell. I mean, completely rid of Bell. No more phone and no more satellite television. I say “bravo” to her. I’d love to be able to say I could live without even the most basic of television programming, but the problem is Bell has me. They have me, and they know it!

I think everyone likes to talk smack about Bell. It’s somehow therapeutic to be able to get waist deep in a good Bell bashing conversation. What’s the old saying – “misery loves company”?... The problem is, then I go home and watch my favourite shows on my PVR. I know. I’m a hypocrite. I’ve learned to live with it and I’ve just conceded to giving Bell at least $75 a month.

McThots

Wait a minute; it’s 3 o’clock on a Saturday afternoon and you’re telling me you’re sending a tech out tomorrow – Sunday!? The polite representative, said, “Oh, I’m sorry if you’d prefer not to be disturbed on a Sunday, I can book it for next week…” Are you kidding me!? Sign me up! And I thought I hit the jackpot when my expected wait time was only 20 minutes! Wow, this was my lucky day and who am I to ignore a small miracle of sorts? My neighbour even teased me as to “who I knew” to have a Bell truck in my driveway on a Sunday morning…

Like I said, they’ve got me! I bought a PVR, thinking that I was outsmarting them and their “rent-to-own” for the rest of your life scam. Great, so now I own it. So now I own a unit that’s kinda useless if I don’t have Bell programming… So maybe that wasn’t the smartest investment.

At least I got the unit for half price; a real victory when I pleaded my case as to why new, first-time customers were given a PVR free for 36 months, but us saps who have been loyal to Bell for decades had to pay $500 for the unit!! I got 50 percent off for my loyalty and my squawking. Be quiet, I know they duped me, but it makes me feel better to think I won that little battle. I don’t complain often, but I figure Bell customer service representatives are very used to it, and besides, I’m still nice and polite about it.

In all honesty I think Bell has stepped up their customer service and finally realized they are not the only game in town. When I called to add a second receiver, they said the soonest they could send a technician was the next day.

And, at the end of the day, for as much as we complain about our love-to-hate relationship with Bell, I think deep down, we do like them. I’ve been with Bell for... well, actually, I’ve always had Bell in my house in one form or another. So, I guess they can’t be all that bad.

To those who have antenna television, I salute you. I grew up with an antenna on the roof and I (being the smallest in the household) was often roped by the waist and pushed through the small opening through the roof to point it in the right direction after a windstorm. We usually had a shouting relay from my brother in the livingroom, to my dad holding the ladder in the attic, to me on the roof. “Is it coming in yet?” “Okay, how about now?” See, I come by it honestly, my dad was frugal too – not cheap, just frugal, and he wouldn’t spring for a rotor because, after all, he had me to hoist up there for free. It must run in our Scottish blood, because the older I get, the more respect I’m finding for Dad’s thriftiness.

Planning and anticipation make it difficult to be in the

moment

It seems nearly impossible to concentrate on the moment; however, that is exactly what I have tried to do while spending lots of my time in the kitchen this past week. I really enjoy putting together plates of food that are not only esthetically beautiful but yummy ones, too!

Prior to the owners’ visit last week, I focused and planned ahead for their arrival. I had to ensure that extra provisions were ordered and shipped from Ft. Lauderdale along with a couch, solar panels, and miscellaneous hardware. The grocery list consisted mostly of fresh lettuces, tomatoes, avocados and fruit, as well as yogurt, milks and cheeses. We still had lots of food left over from our holiday and charter visits. With a really good walk-in fridge and freezer, it is amazing how well things have lasted, especially the root vegetables, but also some romaine lettuce and endives as well. I spent a week in January trying to use up some of the goods by making soups, casseroles, muffins and chutneys either to eat or to store.

little of it to work most efficiently. I thrive on a timeline when I have to get things done. This type of preparation reminds me of Ms. Gilbert’s home economics class at LDSS. You plan everything backwards so that when the plane touches down, everything is ready right on time. This is the secret to a perfectly orchestrated meal and time management.

If you are like me, it is difficult not to look ahead when you are thinking about food. The thought of what I am going to prepare for the next meal enters my head shortly after finishing the last. I love food!

In order to provision well on the island, it is necessary to be always thinking ahead. I have a list going in the main house, as well as one at our home. That way, wherever I’m working I am able to jot down everything from printer ink and toothpaste to seasonings and vitamins. So far, we have faired VERY well. Mark and I often comment to each other on the innumerable stops we used to make at the grocery store every week. Without that ‘luxury’ here, our cupboard is able to remain brimming with countless items to whip up a great meal.

Poor Charlie though! We ran out of his huge bag of food and he had to resort to eating what we ate for a day and a half. Luckily, my father and stepmother picked some up in Lauderdale and were able to deliver it just in time to make it over with our last shipment. Charlie, with his tail sadly between his legs, looked like his luck had run out when he saw the bag being off-loaded from the plane.

I work best when under pressure and actually require a

First on my list was stocking the little refrigerator in the Daddy Gollock’s hut at the runway with Perrier or rum punch. We were out of pineapple juice, a main ingredient, so I made up my own version of a ‘pain-killer’ that was made famous at the Soggy Dollar Bar in the British Virgin Islands. You can Google the real recipe, but I threw together some freshly squeezed orange juice, coconut milk, and a titch of grenadine, along with three different types of rum. It was very well received!

We collect what little luggage the owners or other guests bring, then tour them up to the main house where they can relax and put on their island wear. When the owners arrived last week, that evening I made a comforting meal of rosemary and garlic roasted Cornish hens along with potatoes and French green beans. Of course their island favourite of homemade rum and raisin ice-cream was served for dessert.

The morning breakfast was served daily at a table above the beach, overlooking the ocean and the rising sun. Mark tied down and secured the three umbrellas from the winds. They are set just so, enabling a magnificent view, yet protecting eyes from the glare of the sun.

After breakfast on the first morning, Mark and I met with the owners to discuss our list of items and go over their list as well. This month’s list included new flooring to be installed in the kitchen, solar panels that Mark will hook up to heat the pool, maybe some fresh hens for eggs, and a (Continued on Page 5)

SHEILA McBRAYNE

Quilters donate time and talent for Hospice

Members of the Erie Shores Quilters Guild generously donated their time and talents to create pillow casings for residents and their families at Erie Shores Hospice, expected to be completed by this fall.

“The warmth and love from this community is so comforting,” said Cheryl Deter, Integrated Director, Erie Shores Hospice. “These quilts we be part of the brightness that residents and families will experience at the new Erie Shores Hospice.”

The Erie Shores Quilters Guild boasts a membership of over 125. The members have donated in excess of 188 shams as keepsakes for those who will be served in the local hospice residence.

Gleaners shipping to North Korea

(Continued from Front) enough material designated for North Korean destinations, the Leamington-made soup mix will be flown to awaiting orphanages in the small Asian nation.

Cober-Bauman explained that North Korea first opened its borders to the United Nations and international charity in 1995. Although the country’s government will not allow foreign aid representatives to set up permanent or long-term residence, it does permit aid workers with repeat entry visas to conduct follow up visits to recipient destinations.

“Anything that’s going to help people being oppressed by their own countries is a good thing,” Finley said. “Canadians have always been very compassionate, very supportive of others. We have a long agricultural tradition. You put those two things together and it can only be a good combination.”

Finley was also impressed by the SWO Gleaners facility and projects as a combined whole.

“This is a very impressive operation, to be able to grow it from nothing in such a short period of time,” said

Finley of the Gleaners facility, which began operating in August of last year. “It’s truly impressive. What’s even more impressive is their ambitious goals for the future.”

Finlay referred to the SWO Gleaners’ plans to expand three to five times its current size within a span of a few short years. Up until now, all dehydrated food items processed at the Leamington Gleaners’ location has been sent to local aid organizations and programs through WindsorEssex and Chatham-Kent.

The 2,100 bags being sent to North Korea won’t likely be the last overseas shipment.

Plans are in the works to make contributions to Haiti and Bosnia while another project is being planned to provide sustenance to Syrian refugees who have fled to Lebanon and Jordan.

At the same time, the Gleaners will continue to focus on local citizens in need. Currently, discussions are ongoing between the group and Plentiful Harvest and the Jump Start School Nutrition Program with the ultimate goal of bolstering the support of area food banks and underprivileged students.

“We’re just getting started,” said SWO Gleaners chairperson Vern Toews.

Erie Shores Quilters Guild members Martha Wiens (left, 26-year member) and Linda Colussi (right, 6-year member) presented their gifts of caring to Cheryl Deter, Integrated Director for Erie Shores Hospice.

(Photo Submitted)

UMEI students present family history reports for grandparents

UMEI Christian High School students from the Grade 11 Church History course gathered with grandparents at the Essex-Kent Mennonite Heritage Centre Archives in Leamington.

Over the course of the semester, each student in the class interviewed one grandparent several times and used the information to write a biography of the grandparent. Students without a grandparent in the area were partnered up with a willing volunteer from the local Mennonite community.

The purpose of this gathering was twofold: to celebrate the completion of the project and to present the Archives and their grandparents with a copy of the completed biography. Students and grandparents gathered around tables and shared laughs over coffee, hot chocolate, and delicious platz (a traditional Mennonite desert). It was a joy to see teenagers and grandparents enjoying each other’s company.

The Essex-Kent Mennonite Historical Association is an organization dedicated to the collection and preservation of books and artifacts related to Mennonite life in Essex and Kent counties. The Museum, Library and Archives are open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., or any time by appointment. For more information, visit www.ekmha.ca or call 519-322-0456.

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Jake Epp (left) and Willy Janzen enjoy each other’s company.

Josh Toews and Olivia Toews share their family history report with their grandparents Bill and Margaret Toews.

Lydia and Walt Warkentin go over their family history.

Planning and anticipation make it difficult to be in the moment

(Continued from Page 2)

greenhouse to protect our produce from the peacocks and soldier crabs.

My garden of vegetables keeps me anticipating what I will find there from one day to the next. Unfortunately, just as my tomatoes ripen to the perfect colour to pick, a bird or a crab sneaks in before I do and takes the first juicy bite. I have dried some papaya seeds and am very excited to share the news that they have quickly sprouted, but these fresh little greens have also become someone else’s lunch! I’ve put a fence around the survivors and will wait and see. How can I not think ahead 10 months, as I hopefully anticipate being able to pick a fresh papaya off my plants?

After our morning meetings, Mark and I both head back to the kitchen where I start prepping for lunch and he becomes my chief bottle washer. Then he heads off to work on a roof somewhere or to drain a pond for repairs.

Lunch is served at the pool. The view is incredible and the cabana is situated perfectly to protect you from a chilly wind. I prepare lunch at the main house and then load it up in the back of the golf cart. This is always interesting, especially if I am carting a pot of soup or trying to ensure my mixed greens do not blow off the plate before I get there.

If I plan well, after dessert is served and the dishes cleared, I can prep for dinner. This includes setting the table and if I am really organized I have an hour or two to head home and rest. Stopping at the shop so that our crew can pick up any supplies they need sometimes eats into any R and R, but it is usually entertaining and a nice change. Before dark we are heading back up to the main house to turn on all the lights and finish preparing the meal that includes appetizers, dinner and a dessert.

Mark and I eat our meal at the chop block island in the kitchen during these weeks. While the owners are eating, I slip upstairs to tidy up, turn down their beds, dimly light the room and spritz their beds with some lavender spray to enhance their sweet dreams.

It sometimes gets to be close to 10 p.m. before they head upstairs. Then we are able to head home after clearing away the last of the dishes and turning off the lights. Thinking ahead to the comforts of our own bed is natural and hard to avoid. If we happen to get home before nine, we try to stay up to watch a series on DVD, but more times than not at least one of us nods off before it is over. Early to bed and early to rise is a must in order to maintain a schedule that includes getting to the gym first thing in the morning and enjoying a breakfast together before the daily routine repeats itself again.

Having visitors on the island is a pleasant change and one that pushes us to be ‘tickety boo’ every minute of their stay. Each one of the crew welcomes getting the island back, as the return of a quieter and less pressuring daily routine arrives after the plane leaves.

While I write this, our daughter and son-in-law are enjoying their honeymoon at Sandals, in Nassau. It is crazy to think that they are so close to us and my day has slowed right down in anticipation of their arrival to the island. I am going to burst! Until then, I will continue to water my little papayas, watch them grow and update my new ‘diary’ blog on our island website.

Rally at Cabinet Minister’s

A group of area residents are rallying to save birthing, maternal and child care services at Leamington District Memorial Hospital. Organizers of the event are Save OB Leamington, the Leamington/Essex County Health Coalition, and the Ontario Health Coalition.

The group will take 360 newborn hats to the constituency office of Cabinet Minister Deb Matthews in London. Matthews is the Deputy Premier, President of the Treasury Board, and Minister Responsible for the Poverty Reduction Strategy.

The hats will bear personal messages on why maternity services are so important to the community The hats will be strung together and displayed in front of the office. The hats are symbolic of the 360+ births that happen each year at Leamington hospital.

The event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 12 noon, 242 Piccadilly St., London.

RRSPs are a type of savings that can help you accumulate wealth for retirement.

The contributions you make can reduce your taxes + Your money is sheltered from tax while it grows = RRSPs are a powerful tool for saving RRSP contribution deadline is March 2, 2015

Let’s put this knowledge to work, We can help.

Kent Financial Centre

www.sunlife.ca/windsorkent

Garryk

Ontario Health Coalition Executive Director Natalie Mehra.

(File Photo)

in the in the in the in the in the

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, expect to scramble at the last minute when you have to get something finished. It may elevate your blood pressure, but you'll feel good when the task is completed.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21

You have to take a stand on a highly contested matter, Taurus. There's no way to avoid the situation, so it's best if you just meet it head on. Others will appreciate your direct approach.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, say goodbye to a bad situation, as a better one is on the horizon. It is about time you make things work in your favor and enjoy some R&R.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, you have grown in many ways and people are trying to get used to your new persona. They see you as a new person, and that will require an adjustment period.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, paying off a large debt may empty out your bank account, but you have to look at the benefits of the situation. No more interest payments mean more savings.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, expect to be caught off guard this week. Allow everything to run its course, and things will be back to normal before you know it.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, be resourceful and economical this week. Frivolous spending will only leave you with a hole in your pocket and not much to show for it.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 30

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22

This could be a time of profound changes in an important relationship, Scorpio. If you keep an open mind, there is no limit to the benefits that await.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, after a few bumpy spells, you may be on the road to a financial recovery. Monitor your spending and continue to maintain your financial discipline.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20

Real estate values have been rebounding, Capricorn. If you are in the market to sell your home, now may be your chance to do so, but make sure you accept a good offer.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18

Your responsibilities are at an alltime high, Aquarius. If you speak up, plenty of people will be willing to lend a hand. You just have to accept their offers to help.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, start visualizing positive outcomes and you can produce winning results. A negative attitude will only prevent success.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

FEBRUARY 15

Amber Riley, Actress (29)

FEBRUARY 16

Valentino Rossi, Race Car Driver (36)

FEBRUARY 17

Ed Sheeran, Singer (24)

FEBRUARY 18

Molly Ringwald, Actress (47)

FEBRUARY 19

Jeff Daniels, Actor (60)

FEBRUARY 20

Cindy Crawford, Model (49)

FEBRUARY 21

Charlotte Church, Singer (29)

Federal Minister Visits Leamington

By Bill Chaplin

Diane Finley, Minister of Public Works and Government Services was in Leamington on Tuesday, February 10 to address a Chamber of Commerce luncheon meeting at Ray’s Rib House. The crowd of about thirty were treated to an upbeat, informative address that demonstrated the Minister’s understanding of and sympathy for small businesses.

Her introduction by Chatham Kent Leamington M.P.

Dave VanKesteren included her academic credentials and achievements before entering politics, and also extolled the virtues of the Leamington area. Not that it was needed: Diane was born in Port Dover and lives in Simcoe, and before arriving at the lunch she had toured Hike Metal and the Wheatley Harbour.

Minister Finley spoke of the importance of small businesses, not only as job creators, but as the backbone of the economic health of this riding and her own riding of Haldimand-Norfolk. She emphasized that small businesses were key innovators and world competitors since most export 80% of their product. Consequently, she stressed that

the Federal Government was intent on programs to assist small businesses to prosper.

Finley explained the “one-for-one” rule, which means for every new federal regulation affecting small businesses, at least one regulation burdening business must be removed. She also mentioned that the federal ship building strategy was not merely for port cities like Vancouver and Halifax, because all the way down the supply chain ‘buy Canadian’ was being stressed. The Canada Job Grant not only assists employers who are hiring and training the currently unemployed, but also helps for training to upgrade the skills of current employees.

Minister Finley talked about the Build in Canada Innovation Program. If a business has a new product that needs some refinement before commercial production, this program will connect the business to a department in the government that could potentially use the new product. They not only provide assistance, but also test the product as it is refined, then purchases the final result. This allows these businesses to tell po-

tential markets that the Government of Canada is one of their current customers—a big selling point.

Before ending her address, Minister Finley mentioned some of the government reforms and initiatives that are aimed at helping families by increasing their disposable income (increased child tax credit), or by reducing their taxes (home renovation tax credit for seniors).

Someone in the audience

ERCA approves draft budget

Seeking over $400,000 in provincial funding towards connecting the Greenway towards Leamington’s trail system, creating four new wetlands, restoring at least 125 acres of land, working with partners to reduce phosphorus runoff, and flood and erosion control works in Windsor and Belle River are among some of the many projects and programs outlined in the Essex Region Conservation Authority’s 2015 Draft Budget. This 2015 Draft Budget totals $6,368,613 with a levy contribution from member municipalities of $2,817,434. “Based on 2013 Conservation Ontario statistics, ERCA was the 10th largest of all 36 Conservation Authorities in terms of total revenues,” said Richard Wyma, ERCA General Manager. “At the same time, ERCA ranked 25th out of 36 Conservation Authorities in terms of General Levy as a percentage of total revenues at 29.3%, well below the average of 39.1%. This clearly demonstrates the value ERCA is bringing member

municipalities.”

Since 1973, the Essex Region Conservation Authority has served as a community-based organiza-

tion dedicated to protecting, restoring and managing the natural resources of the Essex Region.

mentioned the reluctance the United States appears to be showing over the cost of the proposed bridge for the Windsor Detroit crossing. Minister Finley made it clear that the project was going ahead regardless of the money. “It’s worth it to us,” she said, and any concerns other than getting it built could be addressed later.

Kristin Shreve

From left to right are Leamington Chamber of Commerce General Manager Wendy Parsons, Chatham-Kent Leamington MP Dave Van Kesteren, and Diane Finley, Minister of Public Works and Government Services. (SUN Photo)

SSCS

supports Little Hands

By Bryan Jessop

South Shore Christian School is looking to make a positive ‘change’ in its community.

All grades of the Bevel Line elementary school took part in a Loonie and Toonie Drive to support Little Hands Kids For a Cause, raising $140 for the locally-organized charity group. The week-long campaign began Monday, Jan. 26 and wrapped up Friday, Jan. 30 for the school’s 65 students ranging from junior kindergarten to Grade 8. “The whole idea is to give back to the community and show the kids how important it is to offer this kind of support,” said SSCS substitute teacher and board of directors member Sharon Arthurs Pepper. “They’ve dug into their own piggy banks, which goes to show it really comes from their own hearts. They’re learning that this is just the start of helping others in need.”

Little Hands-Kids For a Cause was founded by Leigh Ann Mastronardi in July of 2014 after her son Cole became ill. Cole is currently one of 17 “Little Heroes” — Windsor and Essex County youths affected by life-threatening medical conditions. The organization was inspired by Aubri’s Angels and currently hosts both a Facebook page and the website www. littlehandskids.org — contributions can be made to the latter by clicking the “donate now” button on the home page.

Little Hands Kids For a Cause assists local families with children fighting illnesses by organizing a series of fundraisers. The group sets out to include young volunteers to assist with fundraising events and programs, including ‘Little Heroes’ themselves.

South Shore Christian School’s Loonie and Toonie Drive won’t be the last showing of support this year for Little Hands. The second annual South Shore Spring Sprint will return to Leamington at the Waterfront Promenade, within close proximity to the Jiiman’s docking area. This year’s South Shore Spring Sprint will direct part of its proceeds to Little Hands Kids For a Cause as well as offsetting some of the school’s expenses.

The Spring Sprint will be held Saturday, May 30 beginning with the 8:45 a.m. onekilometre Kids’ Run, followed by a 9 a.m. start for the five-kilometre Run, Walk and Wheel. Early registration of $37 per person with a free t-shirt is guaranteed until Friday, May 8. Online registration is available at www.southshorecs.ca until 4 p.m. May 27 by clicking on “events” and scrolling down to “South Shore Spring Sprint.” Entry forms from the website can be mailed to 475 Bevel Line Rd., Leamington, N8H 3V4.

TOP RIGHT: A group of South Shore Christian School students present a jar filled with $140 in change to be donated to Little Hands Kids For a Cause. At the front holding the jar is Cole Mastronardi, one of more than a dozen “Little Heroes” from WindsorEssex County diagnosed with a serious illness.

AT RIGHT: Running participants get started on the fivekilometre route for the first annual South Shore Spring Sprint. The second installment of the event — to take place Saturday, May 30 at the Waterfront Promenade — will raise funds for the Little Hands Kids For A Cause. (Sun file photo)

What is 211 help line?

Have you ever wondered: what is 211 Ontario?

• 211 is a telephone helpline (2-1-1) and website (www.211ontario.ca/) that provides social, non-clinical health and related government services.

• 211 connects people to the right information on community, social and health services if they don’t know where to turn with a problem. Call 911 for threats or harm to a person or property that require police, fire or ambulance services. Knowing the right number to call will help residents find the right services for their situation and has the potential to reduce inappropriate calls to 911 from residents.

• 211 is answered live, 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays. Interpretation of calls is available in more than 150 languages. Residents are encouraged to call 211 for services like food banks if they are hungry, mental health support if they are stressed or for the non-emergency police number if they need the police but it is not an emergency.

• 211 is your one-stop shop to find services that are often provided by any of the three levels of government, charities and non-profits, everything from finding the phone number for Telehealth Ontario to tax clinics for seniors and low-income people to homework clubs and seniors centres. Note: 211 does not provide information on businesses.

• 211 is answered live by highly trained information and referral specialists. The database is updated by trained Information Resource Specialists.

• 211 is supported by the United Ways in Ontario and the Ministry of Community and Social Services.

Golden Years mini golf

Seventy-five aces dropped for 43 golfers on Feb. 12 at Colasanti’s.

Leading the pack with 5 each were Murray Cascadden, Murray Hartford, Marie Lasi, Art Sweet and Steve Vigh. Recording 4 were Mary Anne Vickery and Pete Daudlin, followed closely with 3 each by Gary Honey, Barb Murphy and John Murphy. Chipping in 2 apiece were Cheryl Allan, Mary Binder, Fran Clifford, Tom Hyatt, Eva Kah, Bob McWilliam, Andy Orsini and Al Stockwell. Rounding out the ace register with 1 each were Jim Allan, Caroline Ascott, Mike Binder, Dorothy Cascadden, Eunice Cascadden, Cathy Dewhurst, Ethel Ferguson, Norbert Gisi, Perpetua Hildrop, Cam Keith, Bill Mayville, Colleen Pearse, Morley Scratch, Gerrit Vriesen, Bryon Walker, Bill Ward and Ken Womack.

ord and Art Sweet. Notching 17 were Ken Womack, Bob McWilliam, Gary Honey, Pete Daudlin and Al Stockwell.

Managing 18 each were Fran Clifford, Mary Binder, Gerrit Vriesen, Cam Keith, Bill Mayville, Lloyd Honey, Norbert Gisi, Pete Daudlin, Art Sweet, Murray Cascadden, Moe Scratch, Colleen Pearse, John Murphy (2), Steve Vigh (2) and Al Stockwell.

An excellent low score for 18 holes went to Gary Honey with 36. With one back at 37 were Murray Hartford, Bob McWilliam, Norbert Gisi, Murray Cascadden, Steve Vigh and Al Stockwell.

Rounding out the day with 38 were Jim Allan, Lloyd Honey, Pete Daudlin (2), Mary Anne Vickery (2), Eunice Cascadden, John Murphy (2), Steve Vigh, Al Stockwell and Bill Ward.

Capturing the lead over 36 holes with an impressive 75 were Steve Vigh and Al Stockwell. Bob McWilliam, Pete Daudlin, Mary Anne Vickery and John Murphy sported 76, while close behind with 77 were Lloyd Honey and Bill Ward. Finally, with a solid 78 were Murray Hartford, Gary Honey, Andy Orsini, Norbert Gisi and Colleen Pearse.

A 229 was good enough for first place by Team Queens (Colleen Pearse, John Murphy, Steve Vigh). In second place with 230 was Team 7 (Art Sweet, Marie Lasi, Pete Daudlin). The final spot and third place with 237 went to Team Aces (Murray Hartford, Jim Allan, Fran Clifford, Tom Hyatt).

League play continues every Thursday at 9:30 a.m. on at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens.

MONDAYS - SENIORS DROP-IN, 1st and last Monday of the month only at 10:30 a.m. at Leamington United Church. Guest speakers, refreshments, games, exercise. It's free, fun, and wheelchair accessible. All seniors welcome.

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.

DO YOU ENJOY VOLUNTEERING AND MEETING PEOPLE? South Essex Community Council in Leamington is currently looking for volunteers for Meals on Wheels Delivery. If you are interested in volunteering during the morning for about 1 hour per week or as a back-up volunteer, please call Noreen or Susan at SECC - 519326-8629 ext.381. www.secc.on.ca.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18Leamington Horticultural Society meets 7:30 p.m., at Leamington United Church. Speaker: Marg Laman. Topic: Floral Displays. Join members for an evening of horticultural enjoyment and fellowship. Light refreshments served. For more info contact Ken Clark 519325-0769.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22 - The Merlin United Church will welcome the Buxton Men’s Choir. Concert starts at 7:00 p.m. Freewill offering. Refreshments to follow. For more information contact Larry Atkinson at 519-689-4935.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25Seniors’ Fraud & Safety Information Seminar, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. at Chartwell Leamington, 1 Henry Ave. With free coffee & snacks. Featuring: OPP Community Safety Officer Kevin O’Neil. Will include information on Chartwell and CARP.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 - Sun County Lyme Awareness Support Group will meet 6:30 p.m. at Colasanti's Tropical Gardens. All about Lyme Disease - learn, share, support. Learn how to "Take a Bite Out of Lyme!" Free to attend. Everyone welcome.

FRIDAY, MARCH 6 - World Day of Prayer, 2:00 p.m. at Faith Mennonite Church, 269 Sherk St., Leamington. Everyone is welcome to this special service prepared by the Women of the Bahamas. Light refreshments. For information contact Catherine Riediger 519322-1551.

SATURDAY, MARCH 7 - Voices of Youth in Community 3rd Annual

Dodgeball Challenge at Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex. Participation free with donation of food item or personal care item for the food bank or ACCESS Emergency Care Housing Program. Everyone age 10 and over are welcome. Info: Wanda Rodrigues 519-733-8983 ext. 22 or wrodrigues@accesscounty.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.

Low score for 9 holes was shared between Murray Harf-

HOT TUB MACHINE 2 14A)

BANK THEATRE NOTES

10 ERIE STREET SOUTH P.O. BOX 434

LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3W5 519-326-8805

DALE’S LAST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH COFFEE HOUSE

Friday, February 20 • 7:00 p.m.

Sharon and David Light are the hosts again this month, allowing Dale to have a much needed rest. Before he handed over the hosting duties to these wonderful musicians, he lined up the entertainment for the coffee houses to be held in January, February and March. The audience can expect a wonderful variety of local artists giving their all.

SPONGEBOB THE MOVIE: SPONGE OUT OF WATER (G)

Community Calendar is a FREE service for FREE events. Please see the COMING EVENTS section in the CLASSIFIEDS for events with admission charges. www.imaginecinemas.com

Once again, the reason that the coffee house cannot literally be held on the last Friday of the month is because there is a play being presented during the last weekend of February and the first weekend of March. Please keep reading and learn more about it. Some of you music fans have not been to any of The Bank Theatre’s dramatic productions. Change that now and come to see Queen Milli of Galt.

QUEEN MILLI OF GALT

Playwright

Gary Kirkham

Director Rick Taves

The five actors in Queen Milli of Galt were given the Christmas season off, and now rehearsals are going full steam ahead in January. There is something special about a play based on actual events. Just look at the line-up of Oscar-nominated films. About half are based on true stories. It is especially satisfying when that actual event upon which the play is based took place in Canada. Here is a very short description of the play. In l972, the Duke of Windsor died. Two weeks later, a tombstone appeared in a cemetery in Galt, Ontario, engraved with these words: Millicent Milroy, wife of Edward V111, Duke of Windsor. We return to 1919 to explore what may have happened in Galt that autumn. It is part comedy, part history, but totally entertaining.

Thursday, February 26 at 7:30 p.m. DRESS REHEARSAL (open to the public on a pay as you can basis)

Friday, February 27 at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 6 at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 28 at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 7 at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, March l at 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, March 8 at 2:00 p.m.

Tickets: $15 adults and seniors; $10 students Tickets are always available at the door one half hour before the performance. Tickets may be purchased at Thomson Guardian Drugs, Leamington; The Discount and Party Store, Wheatley; The MaryKathryn Shop, Kingsville.

My frozen Valentine

It seems Valentine’s Day is more popular than ever before.

I remember as a kid, filling out all of those little Valentine cards for classmates and stealing away with a few chocolates that my dad bought for my mom, or vice versa.

My parents were not Romeo and Juliet by any means. We always teased them that their younger photos together reminded us of Bonnie and Clyde. They probably belonged somewhere in the middle.

MARK RIBBLE

Rib’s Ramblings

In reality, they were just Betty and Carl. Daughter of a bootlegger marries the son of a farmer.

Not a lot of romance there. They didn’t really display their affection for each other that I can remember. Of course, we knew they loved each other, they just never openly flaunted it.

We all knew about the box of love letters under the bed.

Letters that he sent via air mail every day for two years while he was stationed in England during WWII. Letters that we pulled out and snickered over as we read dad’s most intimate feelings about my mom. Letters that I still have in a box in my house.

Will they ever be worth anything, other than for sentimental value? Doubtful, but still I hold on to them like the memories locked away for decades. Maybe someday I’ll pass them on to my kids, who may likely never appreciate the sentimental value of their grandparents’ love letters like I do.

Valentine’s Day has progressed (so they say) to a hugely successful commercial day for card companies, restaurants and florists, among others.

Just try getting into a restaurant on Valentine’s Day if you haven’t made a reservation. We stayed home and had a nice, lazy evening. We prepared some black tiger shrimp and a few appetizers and each had a drink, watched a movie and went to bed, and it was one of the nicest Valentine’s Days we’ve spent together, just because it was kind of nice to be alone and not have to be on a schedule.

Granted, the job has wiped us out to the point that the energy level isn’t there to battle crowds at the restaurants or bars. And the Leafs-Habs game was on, so that was a bonus. The temperature was plummeting into the very low minuses and it was just a good night to stay put.

What’s with these temperatures in February anyway?

Normally, we should be looking forward to things warming up by now and it doesn’t appear to be in the cards anytime soon. That goofy groundhog doesn’t know his butt from a hole in the ground if you get my drift.

I saw three brass monkeys high-tailing it for Florida last week! I’d love to follow them. I’ve never been to Florida. Deb tells me it’s beautiful there.

My travel destinations are odd compared to other people. I’ve been to some nice cities, like Omaha, Washington DC, Atlanta and Salt Lake City, but not been to Florida or the Poconos or any of those popular places.

I did go to Las Vegas a few years ago. It was everything I’ve heard it was going to be. And I’ve been to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a couple of times. Another nice place.

So with baseball spring training ready to begin, it brings a little warmth to my heart that somewhere, someone is complaining it’s too hot. Makes me want to smack them upside the head, but I won’t. I know that, like death and taxes, springtime will inevitably get here. Maybe a little late, but better late then never.

I can take solace in knowing that before we know it, the crocuses and tulips will be pushing out of the ground and the asparagus and rhubarb will be abundant as the cycle of seasons makes its way to Essex County. Meanwhile, batten down the hatches folks. It’s going to be a cold ride into spring.

Breaking Barriers: free art workshop

The Leamington Arts Centre (LAC) is hosting a free Breaking Barriers art workshop with Danah Beaulieu of Art InDeed, on Sat. Feb. 21 from 1:00-3:00 p.m.

The workshop, “Breaking Through to Something New!”, is a creative arts workshop and inspiring playshop offered during the Breaking Barriers exhibit.

Based on the Breaking Barriers theme of healing through the arts, participants are urged to find, discover and explore hope through creative self-expression and will engage in stories, music and fun creative activities.

This workshop is open to participants from ages 7 and up. The main creative activity will be using paint on canvas. This workshop is more focused on creative self-expression and less on technique. Limit 12 people.

Participants are encouraged to submit and display the work created in the workshop during the Breaking Barriers exhibit. Time will be offered during the workshop where facilitators will assist participants with creating their artist statement.

The Breaking Barriers Exhibit will be displayed at the LAC from March 3-28, with an opening reception slated for Fri. Mar. 6 from 7:00-9:00 p.m.

For more information about the workshop or Breaking Barriers exhibit, call the LAC at 519-3262711.

About the Breaking Barriers Exhibit: The focus of the exhibit is to create an understanding of lived experiences. The exhibition seeks to highlight resilience and resourcefulness in coping with barriers. A barrier can be anything that one must overcome to reach a goal, even if the goal is simply to survive. Breaking Barriers

is an exhibition for creative expression that empowers, builds awareness, and facilitates partnerships and collaborations. Open to all 2D and 3D visual art (painting, mixed media, photography, sculpture, textile art, installations, etc.). Deadline for submissions is Sat. Feb. 28 at 4 p.m. Sponsored by Art InDeed, Wellness Through Creativity.

OPP consulting community to develop mental health strategy

As part of the process for developing a comprehensive Mental Health Strategy: Police Interactions With People With Mental Health Issues, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are visiting communities in each of the regions policed by the OPP seeking input from mental health consumers, care providers and advocates.

The goal is to improve police interaction with people with mental health issues and the professionals who provide care.

“I am very pleased and grateful for the positive response and valuable input we have had from the community so far. Our comprehensive mental health strategy will be based on community collaboration through Ontario’s Mobilization and Engagement Model for Community Policing,” said Chief Superintendent John Tod, Executive Lead for this initiative.

“Improved education for all officers on mental health issues and crisis response will also be an important part of the strategy.”

The consultations take place as a day-long event with an invited list of guests who either work in the region’s mental health field or access services there. OPP facilitators explain the goals of the OPP Mental Health Strategy and then lead a discussion on barriers and solutions for improved collaborative response.

To this date, sessions have been held in northeast region and central region of the province. Future consultations will be held soon in the remaining parts of Ontario. Input from all of the sessions will be used to develop and refine the OPP’s mental health strategy.

“Police officers are not mental health clinicians, but they are often the first point of contact for someone experiencing a mental health crisis. How we respond can significantly affect outcomes, so we need to get better in this regard,” said Tod.

As a first step, the OPP and some other Ontario police services recently started using the InterRAI Brief Mental Health Screener which helps officers record and articulate the behaviours of people in crisis and communicate them to the receiving hospital.

SOURCE: Ontario Provincial Police.

Peace of Mind Spring INSPECTION

Gore Hill welcomes new JK/SK students with Open House

Last week, Gore Hill School held an Open House for new JK/SK students. Guests were able to rotate through a variety of centres including Technology, Story Time, Art, Phys. Ed., a photo booth and a snack table. Visitors were also able to visit the Kindergarten classrooms. Grade 7 student Russell Derbyshire was happy to assist new JK student Sophia Bedford with building a structure. (Submitted photo)

These youngsters gather around the taffy board as a costumed interpreter recreates the sweet first taste of spring.

Maple: first taste of spring

With all of this snow, do you feel like spring may never arrive? Not to worry, the first sign of spring will soon be here - maple syrup season! John R. Park Homestead is celebrating with some maple events.

• Essex County’s Only Maple Syrup Festival: Learn about a true Canadian tradition at the Homestead’s Maple – First Taste of Spring event, on Sun. Mar. 1 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Maple March Break: The Homestead’s popular “Maple March Break for Families” programs is Tues. Mar. 17 and Fri. Mar. 20 at 1:30 p.m. sharp. Get hands-on in this fun and educational program for the whole family to enjoy.

• Maple Moon: Join the exciting Maple Moon evening program on Tues. Mar. 17 at 7:00 p.m. Pre-registration is required for this sugaring-off party by candlelight including taffy making on snow. Special maple activities are in store for this magical maple evening. Register online at maplemoon.eventbrite.ca

To find out more about the Homestead’s maple offerings, check out www.erca.org/maple

LAERC to meet

Gore Hill Poets To Be Published

Gore Hill Public School is very proud of these student writers whose work was accepted to be published through the Creative Communication Poetry Contest. Their writing will be included in a poetry anthology to be released in April. Way to go, poets! Front row, left to right: Alexandra Dos Santos, Miguel Lazo, Melissa Preston, Noah Garton, Ayden Goyeau. Back row: Melanie Wiebe, Samantha Wickham, Kayden Schmitt, Benjamin Fehr, Mackenzie Dyck.

In attendance at the meeting will be the refugee committee from St. James Presbyterian Church, London. They will be asking questions and seeking guidance on how LAERC has been able to so successfully sponsor 12 families.

LAERC also hopes to hear if a new family is available for sponsorship.

Eight youngsters are enjoying their time on the ice. LAERC was able to use some of the money from the

LAERC (Leamington Area Ecumenical Refugee Committee) will meet Tues. Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church. On the agenda is a lot of discussion about the various upcoming events. On Mar. 17 is an Irish Stew Luncheon at Knox Presbyterisn. On Sat. Apr. 4 is an Easter Egg Hunt and Lunch for the LAERC families. June 7 is LAERC’s 10th anniversary celebration with a open house at Knox Presbyterian from 2-4 p.m. which includes a Service of Thanksgiving. The group is hoping that all who have supported their efforts with donations, golf tournament sponsors and door prize donors will join them that day.

gift from the Sisters of St. Joseph to purchase skates. All are welcome to attend the LAERC meetings, hear the discussions and even join the team. For more information contact Carolyn Reid at 519-326-6776.

Orders must be received by March 6, 2015

You must own at least 1 acre in a single property to qualify for ordering trees.

Also, there are:

• Grants up to 90% funding level available for planting hardwood forests or meadow/prairie habitat (1 acre project size and greater)

• Wetland projects (subject to special funding, if eligible)please call to inquire

• No cash-cost to you - evergreen seedling windbreaks (up to 700 trees) for farms (min project size of 500 trees)

• 75% funding for rock chute installation

• 33% for septic system upgrades (Canard River, Little River and Turkey Creek watersheds only - limited number available)

Tree Workshop - Civic Centre, Room C 360 Fairview Ave West, Essex, Tues, Feb 24, 6:30 pm Please pre-register for the workshop at: http://treeplantingworkshop.eventbrite.ca

Horticultural Society learns about indoor gardening, houseplants

By Catherine Riediger

To me, January, the first month of a new year, is a month when I recover from holiday activities and reflect on the coming year. If you have an interest in horticultural, it is also an opportunity to indulge yourself in the area of indoor gardening. With this goal in mind, the Society invited Gerry Hansen from Oak Farms to be the guest speaker at the January meeting on the subject of Care of House Plants and Indoor Gardening.

Gerry is a wealth of information and he shared his knowledge, experience and love of plants with the members. The one thing I took away from his presentation was that it is necessary to remember where the plants originated and try to provide a similar atmosphere and nutrients. Also, all plants have a cycle… a blooming time and a dormant or resting time and it is important for us to understand these cycles. Currently, outside plants are in their dormant stage but it won’t be long before they start preparing for their blooming time in spring and summer.

As mentioned in my previous article, I do not have a lot of luck with African violets. Gerry provided African violet plants for each of us to take home so I have another opportunity to test my newly acquired knowledge to maintain a healthy, flowering plant.

Over the past year I covered the subject of Birth Month Flowers. This year I will be highlighting Provincial and Territorial Flowers. The first one is for the province of British Columbia. The official flower for British Columbia is the Pacific Dogwood Tree which was adopted in 1956. Current laws in the province prohibit cutting or digging up of these trees. The white flowers, renowned for their beauty, are actually composed of clustered white leaves surrounding 30 to 40 small green flowers.

The February monthly meeting is tonight, Wed. Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m., at Leamington United Church. Guest speaker will be Marg Laman who is a Leamington Horticultural Society member as well as Assistant District Director for District 11. Marg will be sharing her knowledge of Floral Design. Look forward to seeing you there.

“Replant Our Streets” Corner

Each tree is assigned a number and the following organizations and people have participated in the planting of 105 trees through this unique program:

50. June 2003: Corvette owners and GM dealers planted a Red Sunset Maple on the east side of Erie St. S., 3rd tree south of Oak St., to celebrate 50 years of Corvette production.

51.

had for you In death still grows stronger. You’re now in God’s loving arms We just wish we had you longer.

Forever in our hearts, with all our love, your children and grandchildren.

We thought of you today, but that is nothing new. We thought about you yesterday and days before that too. We think of you in silence, we often speak your name. All we have are memories and a picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake from which we'll never part. God has you in his arms, we have you in our hearts.

KENNETH K. EPP

Entered Heaven February 16, 2010

Loving father, faithful friend and husband so true, We live each day with wonderful memories of you. Life pushes on, there are so many milestones to still embrace! Though a vantage point from heaven is your forever view, You will always be missed at home and in our loving place.

Joan, Kevin, Emma, Elyse, and Jessica Epp XOX

on Erie St. S. in front of the former LCBO.

52. June 2004: Don Robinson planted a Glenleven Linden in front of Bayview Towers on Robson Rd.

53. July 2004: Marilyn O’Neill planted an Emerald Queen Maple at the Leamington Marina.

54. July 2004: Charlene Malott planted a Glenleven Linden on the east side of Erie St. S., 1st tree south of Setterington St.

55. June 2004: CIBC Wood Gundy planted an Emerald Queen Maple on the south side of Russell St., 1st tree west of Erie St. S., in honour of the Frank T. Sherk family.

56. June 2004: Municipality of Leamington planted a Maple tree on the south side of Russell St., 2nd tree west of Erie St. S., in recognition of the 100th Anniversary of the birth of Frank T. Sherk.

57. Sept. 2004: Kevin and Perry Dunmore planted a Pin Oak on the east side of Erie St. S., 1st tree south of Heinz visitor’s parking lot.

58. July 2004: Ron and Vickie Haley planted a Deborah Maple on the west side of Erie St. S, 1st tree north of Pulford Avenue.

If you would like to know more about this program, please contact the Society’s Tree Committee Co-ordinator, Joan McDonald. 519-326-8122.

June 2004: Bea Robinson planted a Glenleven Linden

OBITUARY

Paul Casimer

Paul Michael Casimer, 55 years, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer, on Friday, February 13, 2015 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Dear son of the late Elizabeth (2009) and the late Bernard Casimer (2013).

Loving brother of David, Toronto; Dianna Deakin (Rob), Dorchester; Debbie Harris (late Jim), Kingsville. Dear uncle of Christian, Samantha, Jessica, Jenny and Dane, and will be sadly missed by his cousins.

Paul enjoyed fishing with his buddies.

With respect for Paul’s wishes, a private family Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to London Regional Cancer Program or Leamington Hospital Foundation (Hospice).

Friends may share memories of Paul (Chester) and make memorial contributions at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

OBITUARY

Gerard Derikx

Gerard “Jerry” Derikx, 78 years, passed away surrounded by his family on Saturday, February 14, 2015 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital.

Beloved husband of Georgette (Matthijs). Dear father of John and Melissa Derikx, Michel and Patricia Derikx, Robert and Donna Derikx, Gerry and Roberta Derikx, Sonja and Andrew Crawley. Loving Opa of Joshua, Malcolm, Emmalea, Leah, Sarah, Aidyn, Nicolaus, Katarina, John David, and Christian. Dear brother Liz Strydonck (Emil), Hendrina Vandermuren, Peter Derikx, Joe Derikx, Harry Derikx (Pierrette), Albert Derikx (Margie), Mary Lips (Rinus), John Derikx (Celina), Nellie Willemse (John). Survived by many nieces, nephews and family in the Netherlands.

Jerry was a member of the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.

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

Mass of the Resurrection at St. Joseph’s Church, 310 Sherk Street, Leamington, on Wednesday, February 18, 2015 at 11 a.m. Interment Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery, Comber.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to St. Michael’s Parish Building Fund or Leamington Hospital Foundation.

Friends may share memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

OBITUARY

Betty I. Lynn

OBITUARY

Elvira Serafini

Betty I. (Hairsine) Lynn, 92 years, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Sunday, February 15, 2015 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital. Beloved wife of the late B.A. Lynn (2004). Dear mother Donna and Scott Maxwell, John and Judy Lynn, Laura Lee and Kurt Maynard. Loving grandmother of Christine and David, Brett, Kelly and Jason, Katie, Lindsay and Sean, Brandon and Christy, and great-grandmother of Malcolm, William, Iain and Clara. Dear sister of the late Bill Hairsine (Mary) and the late Shirley MacTavish (the late Mac). Several nieces and nephews also survive. Dear friend of Joyce Simon.

Betty was a past president of Talbot Trail Ladies Golf League, past president of Wheatley Kinettes, and a longtime member of the United Church Women in Wheatley and Leamington. She was very proud to serve her country during WWII as a “Rosie the Riveter”, working on the Lancaster Aircraft.

Special thanks to the staff at Leamington Hospital for their kind care.

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

Funeral Service to celebrate Betty’s life held at the Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 18, 2015 at 2 p.m. Interment Erie Memorial Gardens.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.

Friends may share memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

OBITUARY

Mikal Girard

A resident of Wheatley, Mikal Dennice Girard (nee Shires) passed away suddenly at home on Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at the age of 59.

She was born in Leamington and was the daughter of Charlie and Yvonne Shires and Rosemarie Wolfe. Loving wife of the late Albert Girard (2006). Cherished mother of Ginger Girard-Fram (Robert), Kama Girard and her fiancée J.P. Dorey Jr. Proud grandmother to Quinn and Robin. Dear sister to Rebecca Wolf (Rolfe), Roger Shires (Margaret), Donovan Shires, and Darren Bachmeier (Mary Ann). Mikal will also be dearly missed by many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will be received at the Leamington United Church, 9 John St., Leamington, on Friday, February 20, 2015 from 10:00 a.m. until the Memorial Service to celebrate Mikal’s life at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Paul Rodey officiating. Cremation. A private family interment will take place at a later date.

Memorial donations to the Windsor Youth Centre or the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Reid Funeral Home and Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631).

Friends may send condolences or make a charitable contribution at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Elvira Serafini, 94 years, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 16, 2015 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital. Beloved wife of Pasquale. Dear mother Elisabetta and Tony Orlando, Elena and Antonio DiMenna, Giovaninna and Tony Colasanti, Gina and Tony Pallotto. Loving grandmother of 9 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Dear sister of 2 sisters in Italy. Predeceased by 2 brothers and 2 sisters.

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

Mass of the Resurrection at St. Joseph’s Church, 310 Sherk Street, Leamington, on Thursday, February 19, 2015 at 10 a.m. Entombment Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to Leamington Hospital Foundation or Canadian Cancer Society.

Friends may share memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

OBITUARY

G. Allan Wright

G. Allan “Pisser” Wright passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2015 at Leamington Hospital at 78 years of age.

Beloved husband of the late Carol (nee Hartwick). Loving father of Cindy Hutchins (Tom), Deb Alexander (Dave), Wes Wright (Pam) and Jeff Wright (Jen). Proud grandpa of Sherry Rudge (Tim), Shannon Goodison (Jason), Wesley Wright (Mallory), Jesse Wright (Carly), the late Tammy Hutchins, Shane Hutchins (Trisha), Chad Hutchins, Craig Hutchins, Jason Alexander (Laura), Jessica Alexander, Emma Wright, Sara Wright and 6 greatgrandchildren. Dearest brother of Georgina Thibert (Eugene), Dorothy Bailey (John), late Louetta Hillman (late Howard), late Jean McCartney, late Lynn Wright (Joan), Arthur Wright and Joe Wright. He will also be missed by his dog and best buddy Leah and many other family and friends.

Retiree of H.J. Heinz.

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

Funeral Service to celebrate Al’s life will be held from the funeral home on Friday, February 20, 2015 at 11 a.m.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to Canadian Cancer Society or charity of choice.

Family and friends are invited to share their memories or make a donation online at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Canada’s national flag with a new tree

There’s no better way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Canada’s national flag than by planting a maple tree to be enjoyed by generations to come.

Our flag, which became the official national symbol in 1964, bears a stylized version of a maple leaf which most closely resembles the leaves of the Sugar Maple (Acer Saccharum). Canadians watched proudly as the flag first flew on Parliament Hill on February 15, 1965.

This year, local citizens can contribute to that moment of nation-forming and improve the local environment by taking part in one of the many tree planting events and workshops that the Essex Region Conservation Authority hosts.

According to forester Paul Giroux, maple is a versatile addition to the authority’s work towards restoring the local environment.

“Maples are native to our region and play a huge role in our yearly restoration plans. They are the work horses of our tree planting efforts, offering quick growth rates while providing shelter to the slower growing trees,” said Giroux. “They also give local wildlife a chance to nibble on maple keys, which are the tree’s fruit.”

Maple trees play a key role in restoration of the region’s natural spaces and are just one of the many species available through ERCA’s tree planting program. Orders for seedlings and large stock trees are now being accepted, with a deadline of March 6, 2015. A minimum order of 100 seedlings or 15 large stock trees is required.

ERCA will host a free workshop on Feb. 24 at 6:30 p.m. at the Essex County Civic Centre. The workshop will identify the many grants available to landowners who wish to undertake restoration projects on their property. Although the workshop is free, landowners are asked to pre-register at www.treeplantingworkshop.eventbrite.ca or by calling Vivian at 519-776-5209 ext. 345.

1967 Pontiac Parisienne convertible revives fond memories of family cars

Rick Bryden of Portland, Ontario, writes: “Hi Bill. I read with interest your most recent article on an old Pontiac (“His ’62 had three bald tires and burned oil”). We had several versions of Pontiacs in the ’60s when I was growing up, and the most memorable were the Parisiennes. My parents remind me yet that I would call them “2-Hard-Door-Tops” instead of 2-door hardtops.

“As we lived in Sarnia and then Windsor and my grandparents lived north of Kingston, we drove many a mile in my dad’s prized Pontiacs. I recall the subtle changes of each different one, as well as the personal touches my dad would install – fender skirts, white mud flaps, 8-track players, and curb feelers to protect those gleaming whitewalls. My dad even made a ‘child seat’ to secure me in the back seat, and this was before seat belts were even offered in many vehicles.

“One hot summer evening just before dusk, we were parked under the Blue Water Bridge in Sarnia in our usual spot in our beloved Pontiac, Mom and Dad on the bench front seat and me standing in the back and peering over the front seat. We were enjoying French fries from the Chip Truck and quietly watching in awe as the massive lake freighters slowly slid by past.

“Suddenly a loud crash broke the silence! An empty beer bottle had been thrown from the bridge and landed on our rear window. Luckily the window glass did not break but

we were grateful that our Pontiac once again protected us.

“As fate would have it, I recently had the chance to purchase a similar vehicle, this time a red 1967 Pontiac Parisienne 2+2 convertible. It is a documented numbers matching vehicle with the original although ‘warmed over’ 327 V8 and Powerglide, bucket seats with console shift, power steering, power disc brakes, power windows, and power top.

“When I told my dad I was thinking of buying it, he was transported back to that time and could picture all the body style and interior details. Needless to say, I purchased the car and I was blessed to have Dad join me while picking it up, reminding us both of the many times we had picked up his new Pontiacs together. We have since made several short trips in my prized Pontiac. I also have a 1963 Chrysler, but that’s another story!”

I’m always looking for more stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca or write Bill Sherk, 25 John St., P.O. Box 255, Leamington, ON, N8H 3W2. Everyone whose story is published in my column will receive a free autographed copy of my book: “Old Car Detective Favourite Stoies, 1925 to 1965.”

Rick Bryden’s Oshawa-built 1967 Pontiac Parisienne convertible.

Kristin Luyten sends the ball over the net past Catholic Central blockers during a WECSSAA 2A senior girls volleyball quarterfinal match at Cardinal Carter Tuesday, Feb. 10. The Cougars swept the bestof-five match with set wins of 25-13, 25-20 and 25-22. The semifinals brought the Belle River Nobles to visit the Cougars Thursday, Feb. 12. The Nobles won the match with set victories of 25-13, 25-19 and 25-17.

Sam Dyck of the

ning is fouled by a Westview Freedom Academy player during a WECSSAA Tier III senior boys basketball game at UMEI Thursday, Feb. 12. The Lightning held on for a 43-42 win to improve its record to 3-9 while bringing the favoured Falcons’ record to 7-5 to finish the regular season. Dyck, who led his team with 13 points, sunk a

throw with five seconds remaining to break the 42-42 tie. The UMEI team was less fortunate in the first round of playoffs, where the hosting Falcons cruised to a 59-20 win. Alex Epp, Alec Brown and Dam Dyele each added four points for the Lightning.

The 14th annual Oldtimers Challenge Charity Hockey Game between retired NHL legends and a team of Essex County OPP officers will be the last.

The charitable game will take place at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex Saturday, Feb. 21 with a 6 p.m. start. Like it’s predecessors, the 14th version will act as a fundraiser for W.E. Care For Kids and Cops 4 Charity. For this year, fans will have the chance to meet Legendary Hockey Heroes team members at the Portuguese Club immediately after the game. Tickets to the post-game reception are $20 each and can be purchased by calling Oldtimers Challenge coordinator Kevin O’Neil by e-mail at kevin.o’neil@ opp.ca or by phone at 519326-2544 extension 7255. Those who purchase the $20 reception tickets will also be admitted to the game at no extra charge.

The Legendary Hockey Heros team will include some familiar faces to

Leamington fans, including Gary Leeman, Al Iafrate, Mike Krushelnyski, Dan Daoust, Ric Nattress, Jack Valiquette, John Ogrodnick, Dennis Maruk, Eddie Mio, Bernie Nichols and Leamington’s own former Atlanta Flame, Chicago Blackhawk, Toronto Maple Leaf, Washington Capital and Calgary Flame Pat Ribble. Also making return appearances for the 14th Oldtimers Challenge Charity Hockey Game will be retired NHL referee Ron Hoggarth and TSN commentator Rod Black. Taking part in the game for

the first time will be Bryan Smolinski and Sergei Samsonov.

The first 500 youths ages 14 and under will receive free pizza, chips, candy and a beverage while every licensed driver will be eligible for a chance to win a new car if drawn to play Score-O at the start of the third period. Tickets for the game are selling at $5 each at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, Leamington’s Walmart, Scotiabank, Source for Sports locations, Sports Den and Bowman’s Sports.

Public meeting to discuss future of Wheatley Sharks

By Bryan Jessop

With the current season in the books, the Wheatley Sharks are giving local junior hockey fans the chance to offer their input on the team’s future.

The Great Lakes Junior C hockey club is inviting all interested members of the public to attend a meeting being hosted by the Wheatley BIA Thursday, Feb. 19 in the main room of the Wheatley Royal Canadian Legion’s second floor, starting at 7 p.m. The meeting will be attended and moderated by BIA member and Sharks lead volunteer Larry McDonald.

“It’ll be a chance for people to offer their own suggestions and advice,” McDonald explained.

The meeting is being arranged in part to gauge interest in finding a new ownership group for the team. Current owner Bruno Carnevale plans to step back and retire from his role with the Sharks and although he is not involved with arranging the upcoming BIA meeting, he is interested to see if any buyers will use the opportunity to step forward with intentions of arranging a sale.

“I still have a passion for it, but the time has come for me to step back and retire,” Carnevale explained.

Although the Sharks use Wheatley Area Arena’s ice for an average of seven to eight hours per week during the season at a cost of about $1,000 per week — in addition to other expenses — Carnevale pointed out that the team is not in financial trouble.

“It never has been,” he said. “Attendance has definitely been down, but there’s still no trouble with financials.”

The Sharks’ regular season attendance for 2014-15 — the first to feature Saturdays as the dates for weekly home-ice games — was a 20-game total of 3,445. That sum and average of 172 paid spectators per game were the lowest of the league’s nine teams. The total attendance represents a drop of 1,313 fans from the 2013-14 season despite the league’s nine-team total rising from 53,066 to 57,533 — the strongest showing of fan support for the Great Lakes loop since 2009-10.

In response, the Sharks will switch back to Monday nights for home games starting with the beginning of the 2015-16 season. Opening faceoff times ranging from 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. are currently being considered.

For years, rumors have circulated that plans have been in the works to sell and relocate the Sharks to Tecumseh. Evidence contrary to the rumors came earlier this month, as an application was submitted to OHA officials in the hopes of granting Tecumseh an expansion team as opposed to the relocation of an existing club. The application would require approval from the league’s current teams and the go-ahead from the OHA before a 10th team could enter the Great Lakes system.

The only scenario that could possibly lead to the relocation of the Sharks would be if Carnevale’s only offer or offers came from potential buyers who insist on moving the team. Carnevale will continue to stay on board as owner if there are no offers to purchase the club.

McDonald and Carnevale explained that a few individuals have expressed interest in stepping forward to buy the Sharks and keep them in Wheatley, although specific commitments have not yet been arranged.

In addition to new ownership, representatives of the Sharks are looking for volunteers and supporters to assist with the team’s day-to-day operations. McDonald will be joined by Sharks president Mike Raffoul to hear suggestions and ideas.

“It’s very important to us that the Sharks stay in Wheatley and this meeting will be a chance to figure out how to make that happen,” McDonald noted.

Anyone who cannot attend the Feb. 19 meeting but is interested in assisting with efforts to keep the team in Wheatley can contact McDonald at 519-825-4576 or 519-325-8042.

RECREATION EVENTS RECREATION EVENTS

3 month New Year Shape-Up Special for only $115 & HST

QUIT Procrastinating! 2015 IS YOUR YEAR - Everyone is talking about fitness, health & wellness. Come work-out at your own pace or meet with a Personal Trainer! There’s so much diversity with a SHERK COMPLEX Membership! View the Activity Guide: www.leamington.ca/recreation

NEW Programs! – we’ve added a night time Deep Water Cardio Fit, New! Adult Sport Yoga, New! Adult Triathlon Clinic and we’ve added another Walkers Plus Class on Friday mornings. Zumba Billie returns on Monday nights at 7:00 p.m. And, did you know? the Sherk Complex offers AquaFitness Class on Monday and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. An invigorating cardio/strength workout!

NHL Oldtimers will challenge the Leamington OPP Hockey Game - 6:00 p.m. Saturday, February 21, Heinz Arena.

Canadian Blood Services will be set-up in the Complex Gym Wednesday, March 4 from 1:00 - 7:00 p.m. Call 1-888-2-Donate. Walk-ins also welcome. Help to save a LIFE!

Rock ‘n Swim – Friday, March 13 Complex Pool 7:15 - 9:00 p.m. Bring the family! Listen to all your favourite tunes by Chuck Reynolds DJ Music - sponsored by UMEI Christian High School.

March Break Day Camp - plan ahead and register your children ages 4-7 & 8-12 for an exciting Day Camp experience. Register by the day or by the week. Lunches available to purchase! Day Camp Counselors are trained in the HIGH FIVE principles of healthy child development.

Leamington’s 15th Annual Home & Garden Tradeshow - March 27 thru 29.

Interior design consultants, chalk paint techniques, door prizes, all kinds of home renovation specialists and Landscape ideas all under one roof! Home & Garden Vendors, email complex@leamington.ca for details and Application Form! All under one roof - if you’re building a new home or doing some back yard patio renovations & landscaping – come see the professionals.

LIKE and Share our Facebook! Don’t just Work-Out! ….. SHERK-OUT! at the Sherk Complex Leamington

We have something for every...body!

249 Sherk St., Leamington 519-322-2337

Sink or swim for local Jr. C Wheatley Sharks

Jessop’s Journal

I try to avoid the same general topic in consecutive weeks for these columns/rants, but this time, I’m finding it unavoidable.

As many junior hockey fans in and around the Wheatley area have already heard, the Wheatley Royal Canadian Legion is hosting a public forum Thursday, Feb. 19 for residents to discuss the future of the Great Lakes Junior C Sharks. It starts at 7 p.m., if you’re interested in attending. Unless you have absolutely zero interest in local junior hockey or you’ve just moved into the area from another time zone, rumours have been circulating for several years about the Sharks being sold and relocated to another town. Some of those rumours have suggested Tecumseh. Others have mentioned Tilbury. No word yet on Thamesville, Tillsonburg, Timmins, Toronto, Tulsa or Tokyo.

While I’ve mentioned that Tecusmeh is an unlikely relocation target since a group in that community has applied for an expansion team, the Sharks might not be 100 per cent safe from having to pick up change of address forms to that town or any other. Those who keep tabs on the goings on pertaining to the Great Lakes Junior C loop will note that an application for expansion was sent to the OHA from an Amherstburg group not too long ago. That application was shot down, but the would-be owners eventually found a way into the ‘Burg by relocating the Kingsville Comets.

There are certainly things in life that people are well-advised to value and appreciate while they’re around, because once they’re gone, those things don’t usually come back. Amherstburg’s Junior C team proved an exception to the rule, as the Vikings disappeared and then reappeared some two decades later. It’d be worth noting that relocation is probably the ONLY way into the OHA nowadays. A Tilbury group tried to re-enter the league via expansion in the early 2000s and it didn’t pan out. The Mt. Brydges Bulldogs tried to move up from what was then the Junior D SOJHL and they too were denied.

The point is, if the Sharks DO relocate, you’d be best off not to hold your breath waiting for them to return.

At a larger scale, there are millions of Canadian NHL fans grumbling about the fact that new teams are awarded to undeserving southern markets while worthwhile Canadian cities like Hamilton and Quebec City are consistently overlooked. Yup, nevermind the fact that either of those areas would be guaranteed successes — Bettman and crew have their sights set on Las Vegas. Hockey in the desert is failing at a massive level in Arizona where there are no casinos or massive entertainment districts to compete for the public’s disposable income — so let’s march to Vegas!

Southwestern Ontario is a microcosm of that. Teams could very well set up shop in arenaready towns like Harrow, Ridgetown, Tilbury, Petrolia and Glencoe if the OHA felt inclined to make it happen. It’ll probably never happen though, simply because the pool from which to pluck Junior C calibre players is shrinking all the time. Baby boomers simply had more kids than their offspring are having now.

On the other hand, anyone in Leamington who thinks that the loss of a Junior C team in Wheatley won’t have any impact on aspiring hockey players in the Tomato Capital would likely be proven wrong. Have a look at the Sharks’ 2014-15 roster — you’ll find nine Leamingtonites amongst their ranks. With no Sharks, the group of players not quite ready to crack the Junior B ranks in this neck of the woods will either A) find themselves dumping scads of money into the gas tank to attend Junior C practices and home games elsewhere or B) will simply have nowhere to go outside of minor hockey. Essentially, that’s about two dozen opportunities to prove oneself worthy of competition at a higher level flushed down the drain every season. While nobody wants to see the talent level of a league get “watered down,” we also don’t want to deny a kid the chance to improve and advance in his own back yard.

Personally, I’d hate to see Wheatley Area Arena become obsolete — it was my second home growing up as a kid. If (when?) Southpoint Minor Hockey merges with Erie Northshore and/or Essex, the WAA could see even LESS usage. Take away the Sharks on top of that and trigger fingers in Chatham will start getting itchy.

The bottom line is that the loss or relocation of the Sharks would in fact be a big deal. There are several towns (many that are bigger) that don’t have community-bonding opportunities like Junior C hockey. Let’s not add Wheatley to that list.

BRYAN JESSOP

Lions caught in Vortex

By Bryan Jessop

Even before knowing whom their quarterfinal opponent would be, the Leamington Lions’ approach to the playoffs became clear — forget the regular season’s last game ever happened.

The 2014-15 pre-playoff campaign ended on a sour note for the Lions, as they dropped a 5-4 decision to the visiting Tecumseh Vista Academy Vortex Wednesday, Feb. 11 at Heinz Arena. The loss put Leamington’s hopes of passing Lajeunesse for second place to an end, completing its record at seven wins, three losses and two ties for 16 points. Lajeunesse also had 16 points as of Feb. 11, but still had two games to play and already amassed eight wins after playing its 10th game.

Jake Lewsaw of the Lions maneuvers near the point with the puck while Tecumseh Vista Academy’s Keith Wonsel gives chase during a WECSSAA boys hockey game at Heinz Arena Wednesday, Feb. 11. The visiting Vortex won 5-4 to complete the regular season.

“We just didn’t show up to play, it’s as simple as that,” said Lions team captain and defenseman Jesse Fast. “We started out really slow today. There were times when we matched them play for play. We could have won, but we played their game instead of our own.”

Vista scored first 40 seconds after the opening faceoff when Chris Layfield sent a wrist shot into the top right corner of Matt Ciliska’s net with the goaltender down and a scramble of players in his crease. Leamington tied the game a minute and 15 seconds later when Brendan Fehr stormed in from the right side of the Vortex net and sent a low, close range shot past netminder Blake Dell. Dawson Iles drew the lone assist.

Taking advantage of several failed LDSS clearing attempts, TVA’s Andrew Brown sent a wrist shot into the top left corner of the Lions’ net from the blue line to give the guests a 2-1 lead. Iles tied the game 22 seconds later with an ice-level slap shot, narrowly missing Dell’s left skate. Brett Thomas and Cameron Cronheimer were credited with assists.

The Lions took their first and only lead of the game early in the second during a power play. Jack Towle tapped the puck over the crease at ice level from the right side of the net while Dell was trying to locate the rebound from a Jake Lewsaw shot. The five-on-four tally was the only one of the second stanza, scored 66 seconds after the opening faceoff.

Tecumseh evened the score about three-and-a-half min-

utes into the third when Layfield released a slap shot from between the red line and Leamington blue line that found the far right side of Ciliska’s net. Layfield completed his hat trick two-and-a-half minutes later after tapping a loose rebound from the crease into the Lions’ net.

Tecumseh’s third lead lasted 90 seconds before Fast released a wrist shot that Dell partially intercepted before the puck could continue onward and slide over the goal line. Towle and Lewsaw drew assists.

Steve Ristovski netted the game winner during an oddman rush at the Leamington net. Ciliska sprinted from his crease to poke the puck away, but the puck deflected over his stick and into the empty net behind him with 3:33 on the game clock.

The Lions pulled Ciliska for the extra attacker, but couldn’t mount another scoring chance in the game’s dying seconds.

“We definitely want to put that game behind us,” Fast said of his team’s preparation for the playoffs. “We’ve got to play to win and play with the heart that we know we can play with.”

The Lions will likely play the single-game Cullen Con-

Stars weekend recap

Windsor came out strong against the Community Muffler Peewee team. Play was relatively even and no scoring occurred in the first. In the second, Southpoint kept the goal judge busy putting the puck past the Windsor goalie 3 times. The first goal came when Alyssa Lamb sent the puck from the corner to Jaryn Harris. From Jaryn it went to Alexa Taylor, who put the puck in the net. The second goal came from Adrien Gualtieri, unassisted, as she came across the blue line and took a shot from about 10m out. Bridgette Klassen scored the third goal with assists coming from Alexa and Jaryn. Windsor finished the scoring with a power play goal in the third. Community Muffler won the game 3-1.

The Naples Pizza Southpoint Bantam Stars played host to the Lakeshore Lightning on Sunday afternoon. This was a very evenly matched, hard-fought battle; however, in the end it was the Lightning that was able to find the back of the net in the second half of this exciting game. The end result was Lakeshore winning by a score of 3-1. Kelsey Almasi scored the lone Stars goal with assists going to Kate Derbyshire and Mackenzie Church.

The WFCU Southpoint Intermediate Stars battled the Chatham Outlaws in exciting Essex-Kent League action. This game was deadlocked at two goals a piece, then with just 40 seconds left in the game the Outlaws rang a hard shot off the post and in, to take a one-goal lead. Immediately the Stars lifted their tender, which created several scoring chances to tie this game up late in the period, but the Lady Stars could not bury the puck. This game ended with a final score of 3-2 for Chatham. Erin Lauzon and Chase Cabral scored the goals for the Stars with assists going to Angelica Ouellette, Kathryn Ciacelli and Louise Lapain.

ference quarterfianls against the Assumption Purple Raiders. Leamington will have home-ice advantage, although a specific date and time were not made available by press deadline.

Sharks swept by Admirals

By Bryan Jessop

Despite an elevated effort in the third period, another slow start has led to the quarterfinal sweep of the Wheatley Sharks at the hands of the Amherstburg Admirals.

Amherstburg won its first playoff series since 2003 as the Kingsville Comets with scores of 7-2, 5-3, 5-4 and on Tuesday, Feb. 10 at Wheatley Area Arena, 7-3. The Admirals will take on Lakeshore, Blenheim or Alvinston in the semifinals.

“We were just out-battled by a very aggressive team,” said Sharks head coach Ken Galerno of both Game 4 and the series as a whole. “We had our chances, but we couldn’t follow through on them.”

The Sharks seemed deflated from Game 3’s triple overtime loss in Amherstburg two days earlier, being outshot 17-8 through the opening 20 minutes of Game 4. Chad Copeland again led the offensive assault on Wheatley’s net, registering a hat trick by the time the game clock had ticked town to just under five minutes left in the second period.

Copeland opened the scoring 4:55 in the first period, backhanding an ice-level shot from point blank range past Sharks goalie Conner MacKinnon. Thirty-seven seconds later, Spencer McConville one-timed a shot into the top right corner of the Sharks’ net during a two-

on-one rush. Creating a replay of Game 2, Kasey Basile made it 3-0 Amherstburg going into the first intermission by one-timing a cross-crease pass that MacKinnon had little to no chance of stopping.

The Admirals’ attack continued in the second with two straight by Copeland, including a shorthanded effort 13 seconds after a teammate took a five-minute major for head contact. The Sharks sprung to life from there, starting with a double power play effort allowing Jimmy Ciacelli to flip a close-range shot into the top left corner of the Amherstburg net.

Brett Bowman and Mike Reid assisted.

With less than a minute in both the five-minute major penalty and the second period, Nolan Gardiner took a swipe at the puck that allowed it to trickle over the goal line with a crowd of players in Arren Romeril’s crease. Former Admiral Matthew Barnes and Reid assisted on the goal, scored with 13 seconds to spare before the buzzer

Amherstburg got one of the late second-frame goals back about six minutes into the third, when an uncovered James Brooks buried a pass into the open right side of the Wheatley net.

While shorthanded, Michael Travis found some space to carry the puck deep into the Admirals’ zone and although Romeril was able to block the sharp-angle shot, he couldn’t stop Lucas Raffoul from joining the attack and potting the rebound. Chris Warkentin also assisted.

The Sharks pulled MacKinnon with about three-and-a-half minutes on the clock, but were unable to close the gap any further. Basile finished the scoring from just inside the Wheatley blue line near the boards, sending a high wrist shot into the empty net.

The Sharks were two for seven on the power play and were outshot 31-23 despite allowing only four shots on net in the third.

“It was a slow start, which is the way things have been going for the last few weeks,” Galerno said. “Our guys fought back later on though, right up to the end.

I’m proud of them for that.”

The Sharks dealt with a relentless string of injuries through the 2014-15 campaign, forcing the team to approach several games with either a short bench or multiple midget affiliates. The loss of key players eventually contributed to Wheatley’s slide from fourth to seventh in the regular-season rankings.

“It was a factor in the standings, but we were pretty healthy in the playoffs,” Galerno noted. “We can’t use that (injuries) as an excuse.”

From start to finish, the teams played Game 4 with no evidence of the physical altercations that marred the ending of the triple overtime contest in Amherstburg Sunday, Feb. 8. Both teams were issued multiple suspensions after the Admirals scored 46 minutes into overtime.

The Wheatley Sharks’ Matthew Barnes congratulates former teammates following the Great Lakes Junior C quarterfinal series sweep by the Amherstburg Admirals. The series ended Tuesday, Feb. 10 with a 7-3 loss for the Sharks.

Above - Brendon Anger of the Sharks is chased by an Amherstburg defenseman during the second period of Game 4 in the Great Lakes Junior C quarterfinals.

Novice Caravan

Kids earn a win

The Southpoint Caravan Kids met the Harrow Rams at home this past weekend.

Southpoint was off to a great start as Colton Selwood scored from just inside the blue line, unassisted. Selwood, along with Alessia West and Emma Weil, did an excellent job driving the net and took several shots on Harrow’s goalie, Dominick Gomes.

As the first period was coming to an end, Zander Grilo scored 2 goals within 20 seconds of each other. Leamington Chrysler was up 3-0! However, with just 40 seconds left in the first, Harrow scored to get them on the board.

Harrow was not giving up. They continued to charge for the net but Southpoint’s defensemen Adriana West and Joel Stockwell were hard to get by. With just 16 seconds left in the second period, Harrow made it through and scored another goal.

The game was at 3-2 and the excitement was rising. Southpoint’s Alessia West had a sweet breakaway but Harrow’s goalie managed to stop the puck. Along with Emma Weil and Colton Selwood, the trio were relentless and kept driving the puck to the net.

Grant Symons, Danika Romanyk and Daesa Minaudo played hard and had a few scoring opportunities too.

The teams were playing head-to-head. These teams are perfectly matched in speed and skill and this game was a real nail-biter. Harrow had a few breakaways but Kaylie MacInnis made some amazing saves for Southpoint.

Just minutes into the third period, Harrow broke through and scored another goal to tie up the game. Southpoint’s Zak Liebrock and Nicholas Beaudoin did a great job on defense and helped shut down Harrow for the rest of the game. Zander Grilo took a hard shot on net and almost scored a hat trick. It was a lucky save for Harrow as the puck was stopped right on the goal line!

With 5 minutes left in the game, Danika Romanyk popped a goal in for Southpoint to give them the lead again.

The energy in this game was spread throughout the arena as parents and spectators were all cheering for both teams. The game ended with a 4-3 win for Leamington Chrysler. It was a hard-fought but well-deserved win for Southpoint Leamington Chrysler. Congratulations to both teams on a wellplayed game!

Rhine Danube bowling scores

The following are the Rhine Danube bowling league scores for Feb. 2.

Games Over 200: John Fittler 203-205, Willy Fittler 227, Jack Valade 247-209, Ernie Purr 223, Ozzie Wolf 204225, Gary Garnham 200, Aaron Dickau 231, Kevin Kosempel 204, Heinz Kosempel 214-208-222, Chris Kosempel 289, Dan Dalimonte 257, Armand Decaluwe 221, Eric Zimmer 266-246-246.

Series Over 550: Jack Valade 605, Ernie Purr 561, Ozzie Wolf 606, Aaron Dickau 598, Heinz Kosempel 644, Chris Kosempel 634, Dan Dalimonte 582, Armand Decaluwe 557, Eric Zimmer 758.

High Handicap Games: Chris Kosempel 322, Dan Dalimonte 305, Lloyd Owens 297.

High Handicap Series: Lloyd Owens 838, Eric Zimmer 836, Ozzie Wolf 747, Tony Ingratta 747.

Standings: Rhine Danube 38, Weil’s 31, Fittler Farms 27, Unico 23, Dickau’s 18, Taki’s 10.

Mites Hockey Action

Novice AE Battle the Storm

Saturday, March 14

CRAIG�FERGUSON Thursday, March 19

TRACE�ADKINS Saturday, March 21 LYNYRD�SKYNYRD Saturday, March 28 THOMPSON�SQUARE Saturday, April 4 Tickets on sale now!

In the Tim Hortons Timbite Mite Division, Sat. Feb. 14, the Flyers (on the left) faced the Blackhawks (at right). In other Mites hockey action, the Bruins took on the Leafs. A great game was played by all.

On Saturday, February 14 the Novice AE Scotia Bank Southpoint Capitals Battled the Storm from Erie North Shore, applying pressure on home ice. From left to right are Chase Simpson, Owen Pimentel, Tyler Franklin and Hayden Epplett.

From left to right are Colton Selwood, Alessia West and Emma Weil of the Southpoint Novice team.

VOYC to host third dodgeball tourney

By Bryan Jessop

The annual VOYC Dodgeball Challenge is bouncing into a slightly different direction for 2015.

Thanks to funding support from Libro Credit Union announced in November of last year, the leisurely tournament will feature free registration for the first time. In previous years, the ‘early bird’ fee was $8 per person while the regular cost was $10 per person. This year’s tournament will be able to accommodate up to 16 teams — each with a minimum of six and maximum of eight players — for the 14 and over age group. For 2015, a younger age division has been added for participants as young as 10 to as old as 13. This

group will also host as many as 16 teams with free registration.

The registration deadline for both divisions has been extended from Friday, Feb. 13 to Friday, Feb. 20. Forms to register are available at www.accesscounty.ca/events or at the ACCESS main office situated at 23 Main St. West in Kingsville. Updates on registration status can be found on Twitter through @accesscounty or the Voices Of Youth in Community Facebook page using ‘VOYC non-profit organization’ as a search entry.

As of Jan. 9 at noon, four teams had registered in the new 10-13 age group with the same number signed up for the

The Churches of Leamington and District Welcome You

ANGLICAN

St. John The Evangelist

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

Sunday Worship Services

8:30 & 10:30 am

St. Mary’s Church

East West Road, Pelee Island

1st & 3rd Sundays from June to September at 10 am

Calvary Church

North Shore Road, Pelee Island

1st & 3rd Sundays from October to May at 10 am

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church

3 Fox Street, Leamington 519-326-4372

Sunday Worship 10:30 am

Heritage Baptist Church

555 Talbot St. W., Wheatley

519-300-1400 Pastor Francisco Penner

Sunday 11 am & 7 pm, Wed 7 pm

Wheatley Baptist Church 47 Talbot St. E.., Wheatley 519-825-7433 Pastor Richard Smith

Sunday School 9:00 am Worship 10:30 am

CONGREGATIONALIST

Faith Everlasting Congregational Church

589 Hwy 77, Leamington 519-322-2994

Sunday Worship 11 am L

220 Erie St. N., Leamington 519-322-1644

Saturday Services: Bible Study 9:30 am Worship 11:00 am

LUTHERAN

St. Paul’s LutheranEvangelical Church

311 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-3966

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am (Eng)

Leamington Evangelical Mennonite Mission Church 1408 Deer Run Rd, Leamington 519-326-9734

Sunday Worship Services 9:15 am (German), 10:45 am (English)

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

Sunday Worship 10:30 am

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

Sunday Worship 9:45 am

Summer Worship Services 10:00 am

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

1 Sunday Worship Service at 10:30 am

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

Sunday Worship 10:00 am

South Point Community Church 475 Bevel Line Road, Leamington 519-322-1858

Sunday Gatherings 10:30 am

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Iglesia La Buena Semilla 269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-733-0342

Sunday Worship 6:30 pm

Leamington District Memorial Hospital

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

PENTECOSTAL

FGT Family Church

285 Talbot St. E., Leamington Free bus rides available 519-322-2316

Service Sunday 9:15 am & 11 am am

Leamington Christian Centre

98 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-322-1504

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am

English/Spanish 6:30 pm

Templo Christiano De Leamington

MENNONITE

Faith Mennonite Church

269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-6391

Sunday Worship Services 10:50 am (Summer 10 am)

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

Sunday Worship Services 3 pm

Mount Zion Full TabernacleGospel

6 Mill Street, Leamington 519-252-0031

Sunday Worship 7:30 pm

United Pentecostal Church

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

Sunday Worship Services 11 am

PRESBYTERIAN

Knox Presbyterian Church

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

www.knox-leamington.com

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am

ROMAN CATHOLIC

St. Michael’s Parish

29 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-326-2643

NO MASSES FROM JULY 14 TFN

St. Joseph’s Church

310 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-2643

Saturday Mass: 5 pm (English)

Sunday Masses: 7:30 am (English)

9 am (Italian, English) 10:30 am (English)

12 Noon (Portuguese)

3 pm (Spanish), 7 pm (English)

St. Anthony’s Parish (Maronite Rite)

280 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-322-2282

Sunday Masses 9:30 & 11 am (Lebanese, English)

SALVATION ARMY

The Salvation Army Citadel

88 Setterington Street

Leamington 519-326-4901

Sunday Worship 10:30 am

UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA

Leamington United Church

9 John Street, Leamington 519-326-9461

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am

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

Sunday Worship Services 9:30 am

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

Unitarian Universalist Church of Olinda 2953 Olinda Sideroad, Ruthven 519-326-4352

Sunday Service 10:30 am

14-and-up division. In lieu of a monetary registration fee, organizers are asking each participant to bring a non-perishable food item and/or personal care item such as soap, toothpaste, toilet paper, deodorant or shampoo. These donations will be donated to the Salvation Army food bank in Leamington as well as food banks in Kingsville and Essex.

ACCESS and the VOYC will be able to support local food banks this year thanks to the $5,000 donated by Libro Credit Union during the autumn of 2014. These funds will cover the cost of renting the Leamington Kinsmen and Recreation Complex and purchasing trophies for winning teams, teams with best uniforms and ‘last player standing’ in each of the two divisions.

The contribution will also cover a significant portion of this year’s VOYC Youth Leadership Retreat. Past retreats have brought participating youths to workshops at Point Pelee National Park and Fire Horse Leadership in Amherstburg — a teambuilding program led by Michelle Stein. This year’s retreat will take place in either late March or early April. Participating youths are still discussing the location and itinerary for this year’s event.

This year’s VOYC Dodgeball Challenge will run from about 9 a.m. to noon at the LKRC Saturday, March 7. Following the distribution of awards, the 14 and older division games will begin between 12:30 p.m. and 1 p.m. and run until approximately 3 p.m. The tournament’s format will

be similar to the first two years, with round robin games to be followed by playoff matches. About two dozen VOYC youths and mentors are stepping forward to help organize the event this year. Anyone interested in assisting with the tournament can contact VOYC program coordinator Wanda Rodrigues at 519-733-8983 ext. 22.

“The whole event is more focused as being a day of fun while supporting the community’s people in need at the same time,” Rodrigues said. “It’s not meant to be serious or super competitive.”

Each player from each team will be given a raffle ticket to enter a draw for an item from the tournament’s prize table. Prizes available currently number about 15 and counting, and have been donated by Leamington and Kingsville area businesses.

“The support from local business has been tremendous,” Rodrigues noted.

From left to right, ACCESS executive director Jenna Foley, Voices of Youth in Community program coordinator Wanda Rodrigues and Libro Credit Union Kingsville branch manager Paul Thompson attended a Libro Credit Union grant ceremony hosted by the Leamington Portuguese Club Thursday, Nov. 27. The VOYC received a Libro grant of $5,000 to pay the expenses of its third annual Dodgeball Tournament, scheduled for Saturday, March 7 at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex.

(File photo)

The Leamington Fitness team won the 2014 VOYC Dodgeball Challenge award for best-dressed team. This year’s event will take place at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex Saturday, March 7. (Submitted photo)

Atoms Take On Harrow

Tyke Red verus TykeWhite

Lions win Battle of Big Cats

By Bryan Jessop

Having spent the regular season in different tiers, it seemed unlikely the rival Leamington Lions and Cardinal Carter Cougars would ever meet in the 2014-15 girls hockey season. Then came the playoffs.

With Tier I teams earning double points toward the postseason ranking among their Tier II cohorts for 2A WECSSAA girls hockey, the slim odds of the Lions and Cougars going head to head became reality at Heinz Arena Thursday, Feb. 12. The Lions emerged as 4-2 winners in the quarterfinal contest, allowing them to advance to the best-of-three semifinals against a then yet-to-be-determined opponent.

The teams battled to a scoreless first period, although a blast from the slot appeared to give the Lions a 1-0 lead to start the second frame. Officials however indicated that the buzzer had sounded before the puck crossed the Cougars’ goal line.

Leamington applied consistent offensive pressure throughout the game, even directing a series of shots at the Cardinal Carter net while killing off penalties. Alyee Church however denied the LDSS attackers repeatedly until the middle-period clock ticked down to 5:25. Chelsea Hickson sent a wrist shot from the left side of the net that found the bottom far corner to give Leamington the 1-0 lead. Alyson Hickson and Lauryn Gradwell drew assists.

The lead ran a course of 24 seconds before Gioia Diciocco forced a turnover near the Lions’ blue line and sprinted in for a short breakaway goal against goaltender Natalie Edmonson.

The stalemate carried on into the third period, where the Lions but its power play to use. Twenty-nine seconds after the opening faceoff, Shannon Fehr beat Church with a low wrist

shot from point blank range. The goal was set up by Hickson.

Fehr added what would become the game winner about seven minutes later, sending a high wrist shot into the top left corner from the short side. Grace Hyatt drew the only assist.

Cardinal Carter pulled back to within a goal less than a minute later. Taking feeds from Diciocco and Maddie Pardo, Keira Murracas fired a wrist shot from the point that found the right side of Edmonson’s net. The Lions regained their twogoal advantage 11 seconds later — also with a wrist shot from the blue line — on a release by Morgan Brown. Emily Hyatt and Gradwell set up the goal.

“It was a real dogfight — their goalie (Church) played phenominal,” said LDSS coach Jordan Davison. “She made a lot of big saves, but we were lucky enough to get some rebounds and take some good shots. Everyone played a strong game. If they weren’t scoring, they were making some big plays.”

“Our girls fought hard, and that’s what matters,” said Cougars coach Chris Church. “The only thing we can control is effort and attitude and that’s what we did. Our girls played as hard as they could — we just came up a little short.”

“It’s been another positive step for the program,” added Cougars co-coach Chris Lapain, noting that the 2014-15 campaign was only the second year of girls hockey at Cardinal Carter.

The Lions have sent Fehr and Kim Goyeau as additions to this year’s WECSSAA girls all star game, to be played at Libro Centre in Amherstburg in late March. Keira Jackson and Edmonson have also been added for the game’s coaches to consider. Cardinal Carter has selected Kayla Collison, Brooklyn Sarkis and Diciocco for the nomination process.

Several Lions advance to SWOSSAA swimming event

By Bryan Jessop

The Leamington Lions are making waves in the WECSSAA swimming loop, having qualified several of its 19 team members to the SWOSSAA championships for the 2014-15 season.

The LDSS team joined about 200 other swimmers from across the county at the WECSSAA event this year, hosted by the Windsor International Aquatic and Training Centre Wednesday, Feb. 11. Most of the 13 Leamington swimmers who were able to attend qualified for the next level — SWOSSAA — in at least one event.

Swimmers can potentially qualify for SWOSSAA by attending at least two of four league meets and/or the WECSSAA even in Windsor.

“We did really well,” said LDSS co-coach Lisa Jeffery. “There were a lot of proud moments in the pool for the team.”

Jeffery coaches the Leamington team along with Mary Kay Gabert. This year’s Lions squad was one of the youngest in recent memory, with only two Grade 12 swimmers. Nine of the boys from last season graduated while one of the 2013-14 girls transferred to Walkerville. Jeffery noted that an exceptionally large percentage of this year’s team are Grade 9 students. Those that qualify for SWOSSAA this year include Carson Labute for the 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle, 100m individual medley and 100m backstroke. Hayden Mitchell has qualified in the 50m freestyle and 200m individual medley.

At WECSSAA, Olivia Symons won the 100m freestyle and qualified for SWOSSAA in the 50m backstroke and 50m freestyle. Joanna Weil, another junior girl, qualified for the 50m freestyle and 100m freestyle. Emily Menard will make the trip to SWOSSAA in the 100m freestyle and 50m backstroke while the junior girls freestyle and medley relay teams also qualify for the Feb. 20 event in Sarnia.

In the senior girls division, Trella Garcia has qualified for the

100m breaststroke while Meghan Mercer advanced in the 50m butterfly, 100m freestyle and 50m freestyle. Like the juniors, the senior girls have also moved on in the freestyle and medley relay events.

The open girls division — featuring Grade 9 to 12 students — has also qualified in both relay races. Individually, Fallon Mitchell is advancing in the 50m freestyle and 100m freestyle.

Maddy Lavoie, a Grade 9 student competing against several swimmers up to three years older, took first place in the 100m breaststroke, 100m backstroke and 100m individual medley.

Her qualifying times in all three races were new WECSSAA records and were also good enough to qualify for OFSAA in Etobicoke. Along with Emily Bunda — who earned sixth in the 100m breaststroke and sixth in the 100m freestyle — the trio earned a second place finish for LDSS in their division.

Last year’s LDSS team placed in the top 10 per cent at OFSSA, where Cody Lavoie won bronze in the open boys 100m individual medley and gold in the 100m backstroke. Joel Klemens took bronze in the senior boys 50m butterfly.

For this season, the LDSS team has been practicing along with a Kingsville District High School team at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex since Thanksgiving. The Lions and Cavaliers meet two times per week for 1.5 hour training and practice sessions. A few Leamington team members are new to swimming while some have joined mostly for the experience.

This year’s Grade 9 swimmers at LDSS will recruit graduating Grade 8 students to join the team for 2015-16. Jeffery explained that many current Grade 8 students from LDSS feeder schools have already expressed interest in joining the swim team, which could translate into strong junior relay teams for next year.

This year’s OFSAA event will take place in Etobicoke March 3 and 4.

or visit Fletcher’s Cleaners in Leamington. For more information contact Jeff Lamotte at 519-566-4558. All proceeds from Trivia Night support minor baseball.

Leamington District Secondary School swim team members, led by coaches Mary Kay Gabert (standing row, second from left) and

Lisa Jeffery (standing row, far right), took part in the 2015 WECSSAA Championships Wednesday, Feb. 11 at the Windsor International Aquatic and Training Centre. Most members of the team who were able to attend qualified for this year’s

by Sarnia Friday, Feb. 20.

Players with the Leamington Lions celebrate a goal against their Cardinal Carter rivals during a WECSSAA 2A girls quarterfinal game at Heinz Arena Thursday, Feb. 12. The Lions won 4-2 and will advance to the best-of-three semifinals.

Goaltenders Natalie Edmonson of the Lions and Alyee Church of the Cougars lead the post-game handshake lines after Leamington defeated Cardinal Carter 4-2 in the WECSSAA 2A girls hockey quarterfinals at Heinz Arena Thursday, Feb. 12.

2014 2015 Flyers secure first in Western Conference

Despite facing the conference’s best offense while deploying a minor midget goaltender to the crease, the Leamington Flyers soared to a 5-2 win against the Chatham Maroons.

The Flyers officially clinched first place in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Western Conference with the victory against their neighbouring adversary, guaranteeing a quarterfinal match against the Lambton Shores Predators. The Thursday, Feb. 12 contest pitted a formidable contingent of Chatham forwards against 15-year-old Flyers fill-in netminder Mike DiPietro. With an impressive show of support from his defensive core, the Windsor native and Sun County AAA Panther goaltender earned his first Junior B win in his first-ever Junior B game — while adding his firstever Junior B assist.

With less than two minutes left in the third and the Flyers leading 4-2, DiPietro took control of the puck in his crease and quickly shoveled it Ryan Shipley. While inside the faceoff circle to the right of DiPietro’s net, Shipley flung the puck the length of the ice and directly into the centre of the empty Maroons’ goal.

“It felt great,” DiPietro said of playing his first GOJHL game. “The guys made it easy on me and made it easier to make the transition. They made me feel at home. The defense made sure I had one job to do, so I felt comfortable with the puck.”

DiPietro wasn’t aware of his addition to the scoresheet until defenseman Jacob McGhee told him about the assist.

“It was a surprise to me,” he explained. “It’s fun getting a point in your first Junior B game.”

Tending net with his minor midget team, DiPietro has caught the attention of several major Junior A teams. A handful of Ontario Hockey League scouts attended Thursday’s Flyers game to see him in action. He is expected to be picked early in this year’s OHL Priority Draft.

DiPietro was well-supported by the Flyers’ blueliners, who allowed the normally-efficient Maroons offense only 21 shots on net including just five in the third period.

The conference’s top two teams played a mostly-cautious opening 10 minutes, although the Flyers generated a number of quality scoring chances throughout the opening stanza.

Zack Guilbeault of the Flyers opened the scoring about 13 minutes into the match, sending an ice-level slap shot from the right of Jake Patterson’s net through traffic. Tyler Duarte and Cale Allen assisted. Just over two minutes later, Chris Scott beat Patterson with a backhand shot at close range after being set up by Kyle Quick and Eric Henderson.

An additional 25 seconds expired before Leamington registered the game winner thanks to Guilbeault’s second of the period. Taking a pass from Shipley, Guilbeault fired a knee-high wrist shot for the 3-0 advantage.

The Flyers outshot their guests 16-6 to close out the opening frame.

By bryan jessop

Chatham came dangerously close to mounting a comeback in the second period, starting with a Conner Annett shot that grazed the bottom of the crossbar before hitting the mesh of the Flyers’ net. About four-and-a-half minutes were played before the Maroons pulled to within one, as a power play effort ended with Steven Beenackers firing a low wrist shot into the right corner of DiPietro’s net.

Leamington gave itself a bit of breathing room in the final minute of play when Scott added his second of the night. With 10.9 seconds on the clock, Scott fired a waist-high wrist shot past Patterson during a two-onone rush. Mitch Amante was credited with the only assist.

The Flyers blueliners continued to smother Chatham’s offense in the third. Leamington continued to come within inches of piling on the goals with a barrage of shots that narrowly missed their mark. Shipley sniped his first as a Flyer with 1:47 remaining to snuff a Chatham comeback attempt with the long-range empty netter.

The Maroons went one for four on the power play while the Flyers came up empty handed on four manadvantage opportunities. Leamington outshot its guests 38-21. The loss finished Chatham’s winning streak at 10 games.

“I was really happy with the effort tonight — it was a good game for us in all aspects,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski. “I couldn’t be happier with the effort. We knew that a win tonight would give us the points for first place and we played accordingly.”

The next game for Leamington sent the team to St. Thomas to take on the Stars Friday, Feb. 13. The Stars won 8-5. Flyers goals were scored by Amante, Alex Friesen, Matthew Opblinger, Travis Campbell and Colin Moore. The Stars’ power play made the differ-

ence, scoring four times on eight chances. Leamington was held to zero for four. Brendan Polasek stopped 35 of 40 shots for St. Thomas while Michael Barrett blocked 22 of 30.

The Flyers will play their final home game of the regular season Thursday, Feb. 19 at 7:10 p.m. against the Strathroy Rockets. The final game before playoffs will send the team to St. Marys Friday, Feb. 20.

Rest of the West

On Wednesday, Feb. 11, the LaSalle Vipers needed overtime to defeat St. Thomas 4-3. On Friday, the Strathroy Rockets downed the St. Marys Lincolns 5-3. Saturday games included a 7-4 win for Strathroy over London.

The Maroons won 4-3 in overtime against LaSalle on Sunday while the Sarnia Legionnaires handed an 8-2 loss to Lambton Shores. In a rare Monday game, St. Thomas squeaked by London 4-3.

The Flyers’ Tyler Duarte tries to squeeze through Chatham Maroons Carl Stapleton and Brett Storr as he races toward the visitin g team’s net during the second period of a Thursday, Feb. 12 GOJHL game at Heinz Arena. The Flyers clinched first place in the Western Confe rence by winning 5-2. (Sun photo)

Zak Parlette sends a shot at the Chatham net while Kier Cumming dives across the ice in attempt to block during a Thursday, Feb. 12 GOJHL contest at Heinz Arena. The Flyers clinched first place in the Western Conference by winning 5-2. (Sun photo)

Zach Guilbeault of the Flyers trips over Chatham’s Levi Tetrault during a sprint toward the Maroons’ net Thursday, Feb. 12 at Heinz Arena. The Flyers clinched first place in the Western Conference by winning 5-2. (Sun photo)

The Southpoint Minor Hockey Association Leamington Chrysler Red and White teams do battle during a five-minute mini game at Heinz Arena during the first intermission of a Leamington Flyers game Thursday, Feb. 12. (Sun photo)

WFS Bantams sitting at first in playdowns

There is no better time of year for those of us that love the game. The Southpoint Windsor Factory Supply Bantam team finds itself sitting in first in playdowns. While they have played one extra game over their fierce competitors, holding the title of first place allows for a common goal of continuity.

Monday, Feb 9 the Southpoint WFS boys challenged Harrow #2. The first period was scoreless, with both teams grinding and pounding, and setting a dominant atmosphere like proud bulldogs in their own back yard.

As the second period approached, Harrow struck first with 2 stifling goals catching WFS off guard. Southpoint relentlessly continued to shoot the puck, only to find the hottest goaltender in the league “standing on his head”.

It goes without saying that you will on occasion run into a hot goaltender. This fella was out of this world, appearing unbeatable. While it became frustrating, WFS finally penetrated with a well-earned goal from Derrick Antunes sliding through the offensive zone and receiving a brilliant pass from Dante Butera.

The entire Southpoint team should be proud. They lost the battle but earned respect from their competition, and their competition moving forward.

Sunday, Feb. 15 the love from Valentine’s Day escaped from the air. It goes without saying that there is no love lost between the Southpoint WFS team and the Essex Green #10. WFS has something that appears to belong to Essex and that was first place.

Southpoint struck first with a gorgeous goal from Aiden Rodrigues, assisted by Derrick Antunes and Dante Butera. It was a true tic-tac-toe. These boys know how to make it happen.

WFS, allowing no mistakes, appeared to put themselves in a great place as Jordan Blake fired the puck off the boards to find Dante Butera in the neutral zone. Butera sped past the Essex defenseman to neatly place the puck in the glove corner.

This 2-0 lead for WFS was short lived as Essex answered back with 2 quick goals and a crippler with only 30 seconds left in the second, ending the second period 3-2 for Essex. The second goal was an exciting penalty shot that caught WFS goaltender Dibbley off guard.

At the 10:37 mark in the third, Austin Tiessen pulled out his rifle and pulled the trigger on a wicked shot from the point to find the goaltender’s rebound to Antunes and over to Dante Butera, finding the five-hole for his second goal of the evening.

Essex responded with just 3 minutes left in the game, making the score 4-3. Essex also responded with 2 selfish penalties, allowing for WFS’s power play line to go to work.

Austin Tiessen let another shot go from the blue line, where Antunes found a rebound and a conveniently open Tyler Blake, who buried it in the bottom corner of an open net.

The final score remained 4-4 with both team’s heading to their dressing room sighing with relief. What a game!

County Bridge Results

Leamington Half Century Centre, Mon. Feb. 9:1st Henry Hildebrandt and Roger Cote, 2nd Shirley Plant and Jeanne Manners, 3rd Sandy Gammie and Joyce Gammie, 4th Al Morrison and Derek Parry. Bridge games are played each Monday at 12:45 p.m. Members and new members welcome.

Kingsville Bridge Club, Wed. Feb. 11: North/South - 1st Joyce Gammie and Sandy Gammie, 2nd Jeanne Manners and Pauline Mikolash, 3rd Shirley Plant and Roy Trowell. East/West - 1st Bill Chaplin and Frank Duransky, 2nd Derek Parry and Al Morrison, 3rd Jack Warmenhoven and Bob Branton. Bridge is every Wednesday at the Lions Hall in Kingsville, 7 p.m. For info call 519-738-4939.

The Lightning’s Shae Driedger sends the ball over the net onto the Westview Freedom Academy side of the court during a WECSSAA 1A senior girls volleyball quarterfinal Tuesday, Feb. 10 at UMEI. The Lightning advanced by sweeing the best-of-five match in straight sets of 25-19, 25-21 and 25-17. On Thursday, Feb. 12, the Lightning visited the Maranatha Panthers for a semifinal contest. The Panthers won and moved on to the final with scores of 25-11, 25-18 and 25-15.

The Cougars’ Sol Rubino charges through the key on his way to the L’Essor net during a WECSSAA 2A senior boys basketball preliminary playoff game at Cardinal Carter Friday, Feb. 13. The Cougars advanced to the quarterfinals with a 53-43 victory. Arop Plek Deng and Sheldon Foldesi led the offensive attack with 15 points each while Justin Faustino added 10. The Brennan Cardinals will host Cardinal Carter Wednesday, Feb. 18 with a 5:30 p.m. tip off.

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26th Annual HAVELOCK COUNTRY JAMBOREE - Big & Rich, Clint Black, Gord Bamford, Brett Kissel, Tanya Tucker, Joe Diffei, Corb Lund, Rhonda Vincent, Stampeders & Many More. Canada’s Largest Live Country Music & Camping Festival - AUG. 13-16, 2015, Over 25 Acts - BUY TICKETS 1.800.539.3353, www.HavelockJamboree.com.

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SOUTHPOINT SUN

Beautiful, secure building in a good location. 1 & 2 bedrooms available. Utilities and parking included. Call Georgina 519-322-9526

We speak Spanish and English.

1 bedroom apartment for rent. Secured building. Available April 1st. Fridge, stove and utilities included. Call 519-326-3955 519-326-2208

PLUMBROOK MANOR APARTMENTS

SNOW REMOVAL - CALL Geoffat226-787-8866. fe11-mr4

CALL KAHL RECYCLINGWe come to you and haul away your junk. Scrap metal and appliances are free. Everything else has a fee. Call Ken 519-322-8305, 519-326-8559. ja14-tf

J J STITCHING - SEWING, alterations and repairs. Pants shortened $8.50 plus tax. (Some exceptions may apply such as lined pants.) If your clothing is too tight or too baggy, give me a call to see if it can be altered. Call Jean at 519-968-2261. 14 Johnson Avenue, Leamington. ja14-mr25

PRINTING: BUSINESS ENVELOPES,invoices, flyers, business cards, custom print jobs, whatever your printing needs, call Mallory at The Wheatley Journal for quick and economical service, 519-398-9098. tf

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ESTATE SALE

ESTATE SALE - ENTIRE contents of house, including workshop. February 21 & 22 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 112 Seacliff Dr. W. Cash only. fe18

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SAFE AND RESPONSIBLE HUNTER looking for area to hunt. i.e. woods, farmland. Will help with property management or labour. Call Todd at 519-324-6501 or 519-8198991. References available upon request. fe18

BUYING SCRAP GOLD + COINS - Thursday, February 19, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Unico Building, 37 Beech St., Kingsville. All coins, Canada, USA, World. Loose unsorted coins. Canada and US Mint sets, all collector coins, War medals, pocket watches. Gold rings, chains (even broken gold jewellery), gold teeth, sterling. Also buying all costume jewellery. Top prices. We simply pay the most. House calls available. 44 Years experience. Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed 519-819-1805. fe11-18

LOOKING FOR USED Hearing Aids. Will purchase - contact Christopher @ 519-324-5954 or cqkinc@yahoo.com, or bring them to 8 Talbot Street East, Leamington. Donations would be greatly appreciated. ja2-fe25

ITEMS FOR SALE

17" RCA T.V. $25, 4 Hero II Guitars $5 each, Playstation II $50, 16" Dell monitor $50, Radio Shack CB TRC-444 and mic $20, Remote car Porsche $15, Remote truck Hummer $20, 1999 Ford XL, ext. cab red. V6, 159,300 km, little rust, good shape. $3800 obo. Call 519-9969680. fe18

DISTRICT MINOR Baseball Assoc. is hosting Trivia Night 16, Wednesday, February 25, at the Portuguese Club in Leamington. Teams of four test their knowledge in a variety of subjects competing for cash prizes, door prizes and bragging rights. Register your team online at www.leamingtonminorbaseball.com or by calling Fletcher's Cleaners at 519566-4558. fe4-18

ROAST BEEF DINNER on Sunday, February 22 at 5:00 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. South, Leamington, $15. fe11-18

KINGSVILLE LEGION BRANCH 188 Friday Night Dinners 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Weekly Specials $12 (Ribs or Perch). Other weekly menu items $10. Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month 8:00 p.m. Senior Dances every 3rd Sunday of the month. 519-733-5162 (office) or 519-733-9081 (bar). oc29-tf

Wednesday, February 25th 2:00 - 4:00 pm Chartwell Leamington 1 Henry Ave. With Free Coffee & Snacks

fridge and stove, with hook up for washer and dryer. $650/month plus utilities. Call 519-326-8015. no26-tf 1 BEDROOM HOUSE on highway 3 near Kopegaron Woods. For more information call 519-825-4755. oc8-tf

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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

STURGEON WOODS RVis looking for a full time or part time salesperson. Fax resume to 519-326-6567. no12-tf

FULL TIME FARM labourers needed from June to December, to harvest, pack and weed. Must be experienced in detecting pests & diseases in peppers, tomatoes and eggplant. Will be required to work outside in all weather conditions. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. Must be available weekends if needed. $11/hour. Send resume to: Big D Farms, 1439 Road 5, RR#3, Leamington, Ontario N8H 3V6. fe11-mr4

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

Wanted: Mature PSW

For relief staff for vacations and possibly a couple shifts per week on the afternoon and the midnight shifts. Must have police clearance, current flu vaccine and proof of T.B. free.

Forward Resume: Attention Trudy Willan, Administrator Meadows of Wheatley, 21205 Pier Road, Wheatley, Ontario N0P 2P0 or Fax: 519-825-3745 or Email to: trudy06@bellnet.ca

Nature Fresh Sales is currently looking to fill part time position of

FOOD PREP/ASSISTANT

To Chef. Start Date: As soon as possible. Experience an Asset. Salary: $11 hourly. 20 hours per week, during the day.

TEMPORARY CERTIFIED YOGA INSTRUCTOR NEEDED

With possibility of permanent class times. Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday morning at 11:00 a.m. at Kingsville fitness studio. Please call Erin at 519-819-5437

CERTIFIED YOGA INSTRUCTORS

Able to teach Intro to Yoga/Yoga Basics/Gentle and a Mixed Level Flow. Days and times can be discussed. Call 519-478-0087

Jayne@eastside-yoga.com

Nature Fresh Sales is currently looking to fill full time positions of GENERAL LABOURER In the warehouse. Start Date: March 2015. Experience an Asset. Salary: $11 hourly. Job tasks may include but are not limited to:

• Packing produce.

Crop Maintenance and Harvesting of fresh vegetables. Worksite: 307 Hwy 77, RR2, Leamington Apply: HR@lakesideproduce.com or

In Person: 9 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 3 pm 132 Elliott

• Assist in daily food prep.

• Daily lunch deliveries, (must have valid driver's licence / own vehicle).

• Must be Safe Food Handler certified.

• Must have a good knowledge of word and excel and good typing skills.

Please apply in person or by mail at: 4 Seneca Drive Leamington ON, or by fax: 519-326-2070, or by email: employment@naturefresh.ca

• Stacking boxes.

• Replenishing the line with product.

• Making or crushing boxes.

• General cleaning within the warehouse.

• Placement of labels on packaging or boxes.

• Other general labour tasks that may arise.

Please apply in person or by mail at:

4 Seneca Drive Leamington ON, or by fax: 519-326-2070, or by email: employment@naturefresh.ca

SOUTHPOINT SUN

THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF LEAMINGTON MAINTENANCE MECHANIC (Temporary Contract)

Reporting to the Supervisor, PCC; the Maintenance Mechanic will maintain the facilities and equipment at the Pollution Control Centre. This position works with other Municipal employees as well as contractors. Applicants must possess and maintain an Industrial Millwright licence registered in Ontario. For complete details regarding this position please visit our website at www.leamington.ca. Application Deadline: 4:00 p.m. Friday, February 27, 2015.

THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF LEAMINGTON LEAMINGTON FIRE SERVICES FIREFIGHTER ELIGIBILITY PROGRAM

Prerequisites to becoming a firefighter are: the candidates must be 18 years of age and are required to live within a four (4) km radius and work with a six (6) km radius of the Leamington Fire Station, located at 5 Clark Street West, Leamington, ON.

Candidates will be evaluated for consideration from their resumes and required to successfully complete a physical test, written component test and interview with the Fire Services Selection Committee. Upon successful completion of the testing and interview processes candidates will be placed on a “Firefighter Eligibility List.” Candidates on the Eligibility List who are recommended for hire, will be requested to submit a satisfactory police clearance, driver’s abstract and a medical prior to an employment offer.

If you are committed to building a future within our community and wish to learn more about the recruitment process, you may attend an application orientation at 7:00 pm on February 26, 2015 at the Leamington Fire Station.

Detailed resumes may be submitted, in confidence, by e-mail to jobs@leamington.ca by 4:00 pm, Thursday, March 12, 2015.

Note: Individuals, who may have previously submitted a resume for a firefighter position must resubmit a resume, specifically for this position to be considered for employment. We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for testing and interview processes will be contacted.

NOTICE

NOTICE

Annual Membership of the Leamington District Memorial Hospital Corporation is effective from April 1 in one year to March 31 in the following year.

According to the Leamington District Memorial Hospital By-Law No. 16, a person is eligible to be an Annual Member when he or she pays to the Corporation the annual membership fee of $5.00, provided at the time of the payment of fee, the person must:

(i) Be over the age of eighteen (18) years; and

(ii) Have been a resident of the Catchment Area* for a continuous period of at least (3) months immediately prior thereto; or

(iii) Be employed in the said Catchment Area or counties for a continuous period of three (3) months.

Any person who wishes to join membership in the Leamington District Memorial Hospital Corporation for 2015/2016, please contact Linda Harfmann, 519-326-2373, ext. 4101 for an application. Applications must be received by the Board no later than March 15, 2015 in order to be eligible to vote at this year’s Annual Meeting in June.

*Catchment Area: Leamington, Kingsville, Wheatley, Pelee Island, Essex and Lakeshore

SOUTHPOINT SUN

NOTICE NOTICE

THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF LEAMINGTON

NOTICE OF A COMPLETE APPLICATION AND PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT

ZBA #110 - 102 Talbot Street West

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington will hold a public meeting concerning a proposed zoning by-law amendment under the provisions of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990 on MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2015 at 6:00 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Building.

THE PURPOSE of the proposed amendment is to change the zoning on lands described as Part Lots 17 & 18, Plan 173 municipally known as 102 Talbot Street West (see inserted key map). The subject property is designated for residential land use in the Official Plan, as shown on Schedule "A-6B" and is site specifically zoned R2-4 under Zoning By-law #890-09, as shown on Map 39. The current R2-4 zoning allows off and on site office uses, in addition to residential uses. The proposed amendment seeks to allow an animal clinic, personal service or residential uses, in addition to the permitted office uses.

ANY PERSON may attend the public meeting and/or make written or verbal representation either in support of or in opposition to the proposed zoning by-law amendment.

IF A PERSON or public body does not make oral submissions at the Public Meeting or make written submissions to The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington before the by-law is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision of Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington to the Ontario Municipal Board.

IF A PERSON or public body does not make oral submissions at the Public Meeting or make written submissions to The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Municipal Board unless, in the opinion of the Board, there are reasonable grounds to do so.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION relating to this matter is available for review at the Municipal Office for The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington, during regular office hours. Please contact Danielle Truax, Manager of Planning Services, for further information.

DATED at the Municipality of Leamington this 18th day of February, 2015.

TRACEY PILLON-ABBS

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

MUNICIPALITY OF LEAMINGTON

111 ERIE STREET NORTH

LEAMINGTON, ONTARIO N8H 2Z9

TELEPHONE: 519-326-5761

THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF LEAMINGTON NOTICE OF INTENTION TO REMOVE HOLDING (H) SYMBOL ZBA#108 – 415 – 417 ROBSON ROAD

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington intends to pass a by-law under Section 36(4) of the Planning Act on MONDAY, MARCH 2ND, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. to remove the Holding Symbol (H) on land described as Pt. Lot 10, BF Concession now the Municipality of Leamington (see key map) municipally known as 415-417 Robson Road.

THE SUBJECT PROPERTY is designated Residential on Schedule “A-7” of the Official Plan and is currently zoned Residential Holding R1(H) on Map 63 of Zoning By-law #890-09.

THE PURPOSE of the Holding Symbol is to ensure the orderly development of lands and the provision of adequate municipal services. The Holding Symbol prevents the development of such properties until the Municipality is satisfied that adequate servicing is provided to allow for growth. The applicants have submitted an application to remove the Holding Symbol (H) currently applied to the residential zoning of the property which contains two dwellings located on the north side of Robson Road (see inserted key map). The removal of the Holding symbol is a housekeeping matter to allow for a building permit to be issued for a minor expansion to 417 Robson Road as permitted by Minor Variance Application A/01/15.

ANY PERSON interested in this matter and wishing to make representation either in support of or in opposition to the intended amending by-law should contact the undersigned before the meeting date. If you require any further information, please contact Danielle Truax, Manager of Planning Services.

DATED AT THE MUNICIPALITY OF LEAMINGTON THIS 18TH, DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2015.

2Z9

TELEPHONE 519-326-5761