November 25, 2015

18. There were no serious injuries reported as a

Wendy’s fire under investigation

By Bryan Jessop

A fire that broke out at Leamington’s Wendy’s restaurant will keep the popular fast food dining facility out of commission for an estimated one to two months.

The blaze at 5 Oak St. West was reported to Leamington Fire Services at 8:42 a.m. on the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 18 and was brought under control by a team of 18 firefighters about 20 minutes later. Leamington OPP and Windsor-Essex EMS personnel also attended the scene. The LFS crew remained until 10:30 a.m. that morning to douse hot spots and ensure there would be no potential for further outbreaks.

An investigation on the cause of the fire — being conducted by the Windsor detachment of the Technical Standards and Safety Authority — is ongoing. Although the precise cause has yet to be declared, it has been determined that the fire originated from the restaurant’s kitchen and cooking equipment.

“The investigation could take any length of time,” said Leamington Fire Services deputy chief Mike Bradt. “Based on circumstances now, the exact cause is undetermined.”

Fire and smoke were detected about two hours before the Leamington Wendy’s was scheduled to open for business at 10:30 a.m. Occupants at the time included three employees and a contractor, all of whom evacuated the building immediately after noticing the blaze and accompany-

ing smoke. There were no injuries as a result of the incident, although initial estimates peg the damage to be at roughly $200,000. Destruction caused by the fire was limited to the kitchen, although the entire interior of the building suffered smoke damage. The losses as calculated by insurance representatives — who factor in revenue lost by the restaurant’s shutdown — will likely exceed $200,000.

No foul play is suspected relating to the fire, which is being filed as unintentional. Bradt noted that restaurant fires are relatively rare for the LFS, as most dining businesses have control systems in place that make them less vulnerable than typical residential structures.

Bradt explained that because the local Wendy’s did not sustain any structural damage, the company will be able to keep the building intact and rebuild its interior. The restaurant’s exterior was also left unharmed.

In mid February of 2007, a Wendy’s restaurant in Chatham did not fare as well. A fire at the St. Clair Street building began just under the roof, which was supported by wooden joists. By the time the blaze was spotted, the roof was too unstable for firefighters to enter the building, forcing them to conduct what is referred to as a ‘surround and drown’.

With lightweight wooden I-beams and trusses and the weight of the HVAC units, the Chatham Wendy’s roof collapsed within minutes. With all structural integrity lost, the entire building was later demolished before a new restaurant was built from the ground up at the same location.

Christmas Parade and Toys 4 Tots a tradition

Leamington & Area Toys

4 Tots will be collecting toys along the Leamington Christmas Parade route, starting at 6 p.m. Saturday, November 28 on Erie St. S. at Georgia Ave. and pro-

Parade is Saturday, November 28 at 6 p.m.

ceeding north to the Fairgrounds. Look for the Toys

4 Tots sleighs that will be picking up donations of unwrapped toys!

When Lorne Bradt (Leamington Fire Services)

Our Gutter Clean System Makes Eavestroughs

originally started the Toys 4 Tots program, it was only supposed to be for that year. However, this year the group is celebrating 26 years of ensuring that no child goes without a gift on Christmas morning. The volunteers spend countless hours working with community partners to collect toys, and all proceeds raised are put back into the community.

For more information or to find out about additional drop-off locations call Leamington & Area Toys

4 Tots at 519-326-1552 or email info@leamingtonareatoys4tots.com

Leamington Fire Services, the Leamington OPP and Windsor-Essex EMS were called to the scene of a fire at Wendy’s restaurant in Leamington on the morning of Wednesday, Nov.

result of the incident.

Grants available for landowners

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) wants to work with landowners who wish to restore some of their lands to natural habitat.

“Partnering with landowners is key to achieving a sustainable environment,” said Kevin Money, Director of Conservation Services. “We can provide up to 90% grant funding for landowners to undertake projects to improve their property and the environment. We’ve worked with hundreds of landowners over the years, and they have reported many benefits to their family and their property values by participating in this voluntary program.”

ERCA is now seeking eligible projects for the Spring 2016 season. Projects can include tree planting, native prairie restoration, wetland creation, rock chutes and other soil erosion control structures.

To quality for the grant program, landowners should own a minimum of one acre of land. If you are interested in learning more, visit www.erca.org or contact ERCA at 519-776-5209, ext. 310.

Christmas at Jack

Miner

Santa is coming to the Jack Miner Sanctuary to celebrate Christmas on Fri. Dec. 4 from 6-8 p.m., and Sat. Dec. 5 and Sun. Dec. 6 from 1-4 p.m.

Have your photo taken with Santa in front of the fire in the historic Jack Miner Home on Friday evening as he makes a brief stop before heading back to the North Pole to get ready for Christmas. Take your chances on the toonie sale and listen to live music in the clubhouse as you nibble on Christmas cookies and cider.

The Jack Miner House and clubhouse are all decked out for Christmas and the birds are waiting for your visit! Dec. 5 and Dec. 6 kids’ activities will take place in the clubhouse. The house and museum will also be open. Listen to Christmas carols on the old Victrola that Jack Miner once listened to.

Best of all, admission is free, although donations are appreciated including non-perishable items for the Kingsville Food Bank or the Humane Society.

Get in the Christmas spirit with a stop at Jack Miner, and remember to feed the birds!

For more information contact the Sanctuary at 519-7334034. Jack Miner is located at 360 Rd. 3 W., Kingsville.

LAC calling for submissions for Anything’s Possible Amateur Photo Contest

Leamington Arts Centre (LAC) is calling for submissions to the 2016 Anything’s Possible Amateur Photo Contest.

The deadline to enter is Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at 4 p.m. sharp. Enter your best 8-inch x10-inch photo(s). All entries are displayed and judged for a chance to win over $800 in photography prizes.

Photo contest categories are Events, Travels and Seasons.

This exhibition is open to all amateur photographers. Only 8”x10” sized prints (no frame or mat) will be accepted. There is no limit on the number of entries.

The LAC defines an amateur photographer as anyone who photographs as a hobby and does not earn from their photography on a regular basis or who has not had substantial training/experience in photography that would give them an unfair advantage over others.

Entries will be judged objectively on the basis of creativity, visual impact, technique and relevance to the category.

The exhibition will open Thursday, January 2. There will be an Opening Reception & Awards evening on Friday, January 8 from 7-9 p.m. Exhibition closes Saturday, January 30, 2016.

For more information contact Leamington Arts Centre, 72 Talbot St. W., 519-3262711.

Break and enter at Wheatley arena

Sometime late Saturday night, Nov. 21, or early Sunday morning, Nov. 22, unknown suspect(s) forced their way into Wheatley Arena on Erie Street North. Once inside, the suspect(s) damaged the ATM machine and stole an undisclosed amount of cash. Through investigation, it was also learned that the phone lines had been cut.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Wayne Plaquet at waynep@chatham-kent. ca or 519-436-6600 ext. #87040. Anonymous callers can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and may be eligible for a cash reward.

‘Tis the Season...

Let Erin, Mark or Jim help you with your holiday greetings to the community in our yearly CHRISTMAS GREETINGS SECTION published on December 23, 2015

This special section will also include Kids Letters to Santa and pictures from local elementary schools. It offers you HIGH READERSHIP and it will be a Holiday Keepsake that includes your business name and support!

Multiple messages delivered at St. Louis School

By Bryan Jessop

Without saying a word, students at St. Louis Catholic Elementary School simultaneously spoke up on two important issues.

As a Me To We school of the past three years, the school rallied students from all grades to take part in both Bullying Prevention Week and We Are Silent, an annual gesture of support for human populations around the world that are silenced by oppression, poverty, violence and intimidation.

The latter relates to Free The Children’s Adopt a Village, a holistic development model that raises funds and awareness for millions of children across the world who are without access to public education.

“Something like this is just more powerful when it comes from the students.”

- Kelly Rilley

Bullying Prevention Week, recognized this year from Nov. 15-23, was greeted at St. Louis by a list of student-led activities that included daily intercom announcements, songs, a poster contest, a school ‘Family Tree’ decorated with thumbprints from the students of all classrooms and wearing pink clothes. The poster contest was voluntary, although the vast majority of students decided to participate and have their efforts displayed on hallway walls throughout the school. The top three winners from each grade category — primary, intermediate and junior — will be treated to a free pizza party.

Each of the school’s 336 students also made a paper link with anti-bullying message or a suggestion of a friendly gesture. The links were then looped together to form a lengthy chain that was suspended from the ceiling in the school’s main, front-entrance lobby. The same part of the school also featured a bulletin board decorated by Grade 8 students encouraging respect and kindness toward others, promoting the school’s efforts with #(hashtag) CHANGEMAKERS in

Students from a Grade 7-8 class at St. Louis Catholic Elementary School add their thumbprints to the school’s Family Tree as one of several anti-bullying gestures and activities. The school lined up a week full of activities for Bullying Prevention Week, officially designed for the week of Nov. 15-23.

large, black letters.

“It’s nice to be able to get the message out to the community like this,” said St. Louis principal Kelly Rilley. “Even a lot of the boys wore

pink shirts and socks. Together, we’re showing that we can make a difference.”

We Are Silent Day was observed through a large icon designed and built by

Grade 7 student Stephanie Munoz-Torres, who also built last year’s icon. Munoz-Torres sent the symbolic item from classroom to classroom on a cart, indicating to classes when their turn to remain silent had arrived and ended by delivering and then later removing it from their respective rooms. Two of the classrooms — a Grade 5-6 split group and another all-Grade 6 room — remained silent through the entire school

day Thursday, Nov. 19.

“Our words are silent, but were sending a very

loud message today,” Rilley said. “Something like this is just more powerful when it comes from the students.”

St. Louis Catholic Elementary School Grade 7 student Stephanie Munoz-Torres reveals her WE Are Silent icon, used as a symbol for classrooms taking part in moments of silence for oppressed people around the world. Munoz-Torres also designed the icon used in last year’s WE Are Silent Day at St. Louis. (SUN Photos)

MARK RIBBLE

Rib’s Ramblings

Fall turns to winter….

We always had wild game to fall back on too. My dad had a trapper’s license so he could make extra money selling pelts and it provided us with plenty of extra income. It wasn’t easy work, but my memories of helping collect muskrats from the ditches and dykes outside of Point Pelee and dragging the burlap bags full into our basement make it seem like it was yesterday.

With the autumn temperatures come so many other things. We batten down the hatches for the impending winter by covering up our outdoor stuff and raking the yards, only to see them filled back in again the next day.

Of course, it wasn’t yesterday, or even last week. It was 50 years ago. To this day, when I smell burning leaves, it takes me back to that time.

Mom would start on Christmas decorating sometime near the end of November. I don’t think we had an artificial tree until we moved to town. After all, we were surrounded by evergreens of all sizes and shapes, so finding a tree was never a problem.

The smell of burning leaves always takes me back. The piles of hackberry and black walnut leaves that congregated in our yard were raked into several piles and burned in the fall.

Of course, as a kid, my job was running through and jumping into the piles that were neatly put together.

Once in awhile I’d grab a rake and help put them back in shape. The burning was the best part though. Watching the smoke climb up into the sky was a curiosity to this kid.

Soon, the house would smell like a mixture of furnace oil and apple pie as Christmas baking took over the familiar smell of our furnace after the weather turned colder.

When I think of all of the stuff that was burned in those days, I have to wonder how we did it without bringing all sorts of fire officials down upon us. Of course, those were different times. No burning by-laws existed as far as I know. I think overall, people were more careful about their burning in those days.

We had a floor furnace installed when I was about seven or eight so you had to be careful not to step on the iron grate in the middle, because that piece held the heat very well. My nephew Jerry found that out when he was a toddler. He stepped right in the middle of the floor furnace grate and badly burned his foot.

Dad burned a certain amount of garbage too. We had a garbage burning pit in our back yard. Pretty much anything that Mrs. Wales and her crew didn’t pick up, got burned in the back yard. I guess that was our way of composting.

To a precocious 10-year-old, fire was a fascinating thing.

I’m sure those things are outlawed now. If not, they should have been. One little misstep and you’d have a serious burn. But it kept us warm through some of those late ’60s-early ’70s winters when the snow could climb as high as the telephone poles in some areas.

Tobogganing was a challenge inside the park. There were just so many trees, but I remember being able to find the odd hill in the bush that would be fun to sled on if you were able to avoid the trees and vines.

Whenever duck season brought a bounty of birds into our yard, after they were plucked, each duck was carefully passed over an open flame to singe off the fine hair and pinfeathers before they were dressed and ready for the oven.

Dad would occasionally go to the farm and get some live chickens and the routine would be similar when we got home with them, making sure the birds were ready for family consumption.

I remember the first time I witnessed the killing of live chickens in our back yard. The old saying ‘running around like a chicken with your head cut off’ certainly rang true. It was definitely a different time.

We lived a simple life, but always had plenty to eat, even if it was just sandwiches made from sandwich spread, or fried bologna.

Winters inside the park were cold and somewhat isolated, especially after everyone else had moved out. There were just a few of us left down there by the winter of 1973. We came to town for hockey and shopping but otherwise stayed at home during those snowy winters. The bus ride to school was always an adventure once the snow hit. We did have the odd snow day, but usually Mr. Jones powered through everything and got us to Gore Hill just fine.

Now that we’ve experienced our first snowfall of the season, I’m hoping for a mild winter. These old bones and muscles don’t like the extreme cold anymore, especially after the last two winters when my early mornings were spent in the outdoors.

Having said that, I’ll always have fond childhood memories of the fall season in this area and the snowy winters that followed.

That’s before whole wheat bread became a ‘thing’. And nobody had even thought of multi-grain bread or flax seed.

Russian around paid off

tee nuh-PRAH-vuh” by his American interpreter friend, we either missed the turn or went onto two wheels to make it.

After the gentlemen were settled into their rooms they announced that they wanted food. When my team and I realized that what seemed like gruffness was really just a limited English vocabulary, we relied more on facial expressions from then on. His smile helped us get through the week.

Finally, after waiting for a full year, our Russian charter arrived! In fact, their boat staff arrived two days early, throwing my plans for a calm orchestration out the window.

Now as I sit and reflect, I wonder if the past week and a half was a dream tainted by a nightmare or the other way around. Thankfully, we all arrived on the other side practically unscathed, exhausted and sore but very proud of a job well done.

The boat staff arrived early so we quickly put them up in Flamingo house. They were served some snacks the night of their arrival and breakfast the following morning. After a day of prepping the brand new 47-foot Intrepid, they enjoyed a wonderful dinner. Although this was a slight inconvenience, it jump-started us into action and we knew we were able to work out any kinks – or so we thought! November 4 dawned as a beautiful day. Our first two guests, the head mucky mucks, arrived late in the morning. As usual, our entire staff was uniformed and ready to greet our guests. I was prepared to whisk them off for an island tour in our golf cart caddie, while Mark delivered the bags to their rooms.

In short time I learned exactly who was the boss, as I was ousted to the back seat and Mr. R. took control. There was a considerable communication gap and by the time I said “right turn” and it was translated to “puh-veer-NEE-

I can’t say we were not warned; however, living up to their reputation, this Russian group liked all their meals served on platters and everything was to arrive all at once. If they had to sit for more than a few minutes without the arrival of the full complement of food, we were set up for disaster. They enjoyed very fine beverages and surrounded themselves with lovely young Russian girls who were flown to the island in two separate groups.

Fortunately the men were up early for yoga, a massage and then they were off in the boat for a day of fishing and scuba diving. Our kitchen staff packed a lunch daily that included burgers made from ground beef fillets, freshly baked buns, all the accompaniments and a keg of beer, as well as lots of water and Gatorade. Four to 6 guests would remain behind to sunbathe and be pampered with cocktails at the beach and a beautiful lunch served by the pool.

Once we got into the routine, which we pretty much had to do immediately, our iPhones became invaluable. The public relations man on the boat would message me regarding the boat’s ETA (estimated time of arrival), giving us a window of 15 minutes to ready ourselves both physically and psychologically. Mark and I saw the boat off every morning and greeted them every afternoon on their return. I would give the rest of the crew the heads up as to where everyone was headed.

(Continued on page 5)

Progress on new LDSS moving along despite setbacks

By Pat Bailey

It’s been years in the works, but when construction of the new Leamington District Secondary School is complete, Scott Scantlebury says it will be worth the wait.

Scantlebury, public relations officer for the Greater Essex County District School Board, admits there have been several delays but said, “It’s progressing.”

He said although there are currently no renderings available, one of the major improvements for LDSS students will be a full-size gymnasium. He said this will definitely be a boost for the school teams and other groups that have had to make do with the current gym.

He said students will also be much more comfortable while in class, with a much improved heating and cooling system that will be installed in the new building.

Scantlebury said another area that has gotten some special attention in the design phase is the culinary program. Known for its extensive cooking program, he said the new design for LDSS will properly provide the resources necessary for its students’ success.

“The kitchen facilities will be outstanding,” he said.

In addition to focusing on a few key programs which make it vary from the design of the recently completed Essex District High School, Scantlebury said, they also attempted to find cost savings that wouldn’t detract from the final product – such as the decision to forego the painting of the exterior brick.

He said bids will go out from November to January, and once the tenders are opened and awarded the final decision must be approved by the school board and the Ministry of Education.

He said after the design and budget get the necessary approvals, they are hoping construc-

Russian around paid off

(Continued from page 4)

Our main concern was with the host of the group. No one sat down at the table until he arrived, and when he did the food needed to be served. Pronto! Some days we were blessed with extra time when he headed for a massage first, thus giving the chef extra time to prepare the fresh fish.

Nightly, the meal was a melee of that day’s catch prepared in a variety of ways. Mahi sashimi, grilled grouper, whole strawberry snapper and more were efficiently and tastefully plated and served on a beautifully set table. Platter after platter was refilled and the guests were constantly reassured that they were eating what had been swimming just hours earlier.

I felt right at home!

The entire week went well as we worked our way through a glitch here and some drama with staff there. Most importantly, our guests were all very happy to be here. The last day started off perfectly when the host greeted the day by saying, “Good day, Charlie.” After a final snorkeling session off our main beach, followed by a decadent cheese platter and a glass of fine red wine, the host headed to the airstrip as he had started his vacation, with Charlie and I sitting in the back seat!

We are happy to have our island back to ourselves, including all the peace and quiet we take for granted. There is just a short reprieve before the owners and their guests arrive. That will keep us hopping from December 5 until January 17. We are lucky to have the balance that this life has to offer, including the challenges that keep us learning new things every day!

tion begins in April –with an anticipated completion and opening by September 2017.

Scantlebury said the main stumbling block through the process has been the acquisition of land. Eventually, he said, they were able to put together six separate parcels of land, totalling 19.5 acres, bordering Oak and Sherk streets, to accommodate the new high school.

After the purchase was finalized, Scantlebury said the property had to be remediated to the satisfaction of the Ministry of Environment guidelines, since a greenhouse and wrecking yard had been housed on the property previously. The cleanup, he said, once again delayed the project.

The talk of upgrades to LDSS began in 2007, when then MPP Pat Hoy stood in the school library and announced a provincial grant of $10.7 million for major renovations to the school.

Two years later though, the government offered up $26 million for a total school rebuild when it was deemed the cost of necessary upgrades to the school prohibitive.

90%ofstudentsfeeltheywerebetter prepared for post-secondary education than their peers

Leamington District Secondary School as it stands now.

The newly constructed LDSS will be built near the intersection of Oak Street and Sherk Street.

Diamonds and Denim Gala to Benefit SECC Programs

With nearly $195,000 raised in its first nine years, the Diamonds and Denim Gala was expected to raise another $30,000 to benefit SECC programs. More than 400 guests attended the gala, which was held Friday night, Nov. 20, at the Leamington Portuguese Club, and emceed by Luke Nugent of Mix 96.7. Proceeds from the evening will benefit several SECC programs, including outdoor play and other youth programs. The committee responsible for planning the event includes Carolyn Warkentin, Debbie Daher, James Impens, Sharlene Jacobs, Kerry Kraus, Gabe Ligotino, Christine Mariano, Jennifer Moore, Goldie Penner, Rachel Ogden, Elena Olsen, Carrie Renaud, Najet Saba and Mark Wybenga. (Photo courtesy of Justin David Photography) Master of ceremonies Luke Nugent of 96.7 surrounded by his ‘fans’. (Southpoint SUN Photo)

pictures on page 7

fill out form below:

NAME:

ADDRESS:

TOWN/CITY:

(SUN Photos)

Christie Filiault, Becky Saunders, Vicki Nolan and Layne Hoskins greeted

nual Diamonds and Denim Gala

at the Portuguese Club.

in the in the in the in the in the

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, things go well this week, but expect a few bumps along the way as well. Learn how to clear these hurdles and you will stay on track.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, keep your eye on the prize, resisting the temptation to get swept up in distractions. The longer you can maintain your focus this week, the more likely you are to be successful.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21

Luck puts you in the path of someone you have been anxious to meet, Gemini. Use this opportunity this week to ask all the questions you have been wanting to ask.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22

Persistence is your best ally this week, Cancer. When others give up early, you have the tenacity to continue. Don't be surprised if others notice your hard work.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23

Other people appreciate your ability to put a positive spin on things, Leo. Use that talent to help two friends overcome their differences in the next week.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22

Keep an open mind when someone comes to you with a suggestion, Virgo. Even though you are quick to dismiss it outright, give it a second thought.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, some big challenges are coming your way, but it's not anything you can't handle. However, you may need to bring in some reinforcements. Enlist some friends to help out.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 31

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, after many weeks of putting in your best effort at work and at home, it very well may be time to take a break. Here's a chance to book a vacation before the holiday rush.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, even though you are quite persuasive, you cannot always make miracles happen. If someone isn't moved by your call to action, don't take it personally.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, there's not much more you can pile onto your plate without it tipping over. This week lighten your load by asking family to help. They are more than willing.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18

Make an effort to restore some order to your finances, Aquarius. It may be time to curtail your spending, but a close examination of your finances won't cause much panic.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, some mysterious news has piqued your curiosity, and now you may not be sure which direction to go for a few days.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

NOVEMBER 22

Mads Mikkelsen, Actor (50) NOVEMBER 23

Miley Cyrus, Singer (23) NOVEMBER 24

Sarah Hyland, Actress (25) NOVEMBER 25

Kevin Chamberlin, Actor (52) NOVEMBER 26

Rita Ora, Singer (25) NOVEMBER 27

Jaleel White, Actor (39) NOVEMBER 28

Alan Ritchson, Actor (31)

Rotary Christmas Gift Show a Resounding Success

Hundreds turned out in search of unique gifts for the holiday season at the Leamington Rotary Club’s annual Christmas Gift Show at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex. With dozens of vendors selling a wide variety of baked goods, and items ranging from Christmas décor to handmade signs, the sale was a resounding success. This year marked the 30th year for the event. Bottom photo: A view from above of the activity. Top photo: Olivia Hill, 4, of Wheatley checks out the Crafts by Helen display. (SUN photos)

Matt Epp meets Coffee for Peace in the Philippines

International recording artist and world traveller

Matt Epp made his first trip to the Philippines in response to an invitation from Coffee For Peace, a business initiative that builds peace by empowering local farmers to raise, process and sell fair trade coffee while giving new life to denuded forest land.

Epp first encountered Coffee for Peace in 2014 when Warner Music Canada brought attention to their peace building efforts during the Juno Awards in Winnipeg.

Raised in Manitoba, Epp currently has nine albums to his credit. His latest recording Ready In Time was produced by award-winner Rusty Matyas (The Sheepdogs, Imaginary Cities). It is described by CBC Music as an album that “challenges the listener to see their world, their community, their loves with open eyes and do right by them.”

Epp said he always wanted to visit the Philippines and coming with Coffee for Peace and his music was the

best possible way to do it.

“If you come as a tourist, you don’t have the same welcome,” he noted in a video documentary about the trip that was produced for Mennonite Church Canada. “And if you come as somebody that has something to share, somebody will share with you.”

And share Epp did. He visited farmers in various regions, guitar in hand. He sang and played and also listened to his hosts’ songs and stories.

In the Mount Apo region, Epp found himself in the middle of bald mountains where Coffee for Peace Indigenous farmers are reforesting the area to provide shade for their coffee plants and prevent soil erosion.

“It’s great to see how Coffee for Peace is reforesting it and what they’re doing with the 72 families up here,” Epp said.

Epp toured with Coffee for Peace founder and president Joji Pantoja and her husband Dann. The couple are Mennonite Church Canada workers in the Philip-

Apple Bowl this Sunday

The Ruthven Apple Festival Steering Committee is hosting the 23rd annual Apple Bowl. The Apple Bowl, a fundraising bowling event, is part of the annual Ruthven Apple Festival and will be held at Empire Lanes in Ruthven on Sunday, November 29 at 2 p.m.

Everyone is invited to participate in a couple of hours of fun for a great cause. Simply put together your own group of four or five friends, collect a minimum of $20 each in pledges and bowl. It’s that simple!

Participants can look forward to great prizes for

top pledges collected, two games of bowling and refreshments.

For more information or to register a team, call Natalie Crawford, administrative officer, Community Living Essex County, at 519-7766483 ext 282.

pines, ministering through PeaceBuilders Community Inc. under whose umbrella Coffee for Peace falls.

In Bukidnon, Epp encountered the New People’s Army zone.

“It’s a little nerve-wracking when you come around the corner and there’s a military check-point with machine guns,” he said, noting some difficulty in distinguishing between armed groups in the Philippines.

“This is one of the most dangerous places for government agencies and big corporations and military,” said Dann Pantoja about Bukidnon.

Despite that, anyone who comes with Joji Pantoja and Coffee for Peace can roam the region safely—a testament to the powerful impact the business has had on community and relationships.

One of the trip highlights for Epp and his hosts was a concert he performed in Tondo, the poorest community in Manila. Epp said the impromptu event was a wonderful way to see

people from a variety of backgrounds come together through music – rich and poor, Indigenous, Christian, and Muslim.

“There’s many different opposing and conflicting groups here but people do want peace. You can see it. Coffee For Peace, Dann and Joji have relationships with every one of those factions, all the religious leaders, the political leaders, the rebel groups – they are friends with all of them and they have dialogue with all of them.”

Epp is performing at a fundraiser at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 29 at UMEI Christian High School in Leamington. Donations will be shared between Coffee for Peace and the music department at UMEI. Tickets are available at http://home. mennonitechurch.ca/Matt EppNov29.

To learn more about his experience, see Matt Epp and Coffee for Peace, Philippines at https://donate. mennonitechurch.ca/project/CoffeeForPeace.

Participants from École St-Michel in the annual Jingle Bell Run, Walk & Wheel to benefit Community Living Essex County, from left to right: Kirstie Kniaziew, Richard Szwed (principal), Sian Kniaziew, Santa, Alia Flores, Lorenzo Flores, Serrah Gossmann (teacher), Ellis Fleming, Marc Lachapelle (teacher), Noah Lachapelle, Natalie Szwed, Olivia Szwed and Chloé Szwed. Absent from photo: Amélie Lachapelle, Lydia Shamoradi, Kate Ramsey. (Submitted photo)

Jingle Bell Run, Walk & Wheel benefits Community Living

Staff and students, including members from “Club des coureurs”, from École St-Michel participated in the Annual Jingle Bell Run, Walk & Wheel in Essex on Sunday, Nov. 8 benefiting Community Living Essex County.

Club des coureurs members have been training together 3 mornings a week all over Leamington since September. Here are the results.

5 km Walk: Richard Szwed (principal) 44:49, Marc Lachapelle (gr. 6 teacher) with his son Noah.

5 km Run: Serrah Gossmann (gr. 1 teacher) 33:42, Alia Flores 28:19, Lydia Shamoradi 30:15, Sian Kniaziew 30:39, Lorenzo Flores 33:26, Kate Ramsey 41:14, Chloe Szwed 42:13, Olivia Szwed 31:19, Natalie Szwed 42:15. Elf Run: Amélie Lachapelle, Ellis Fleming.

Ecole St. Michel honours veterans

By Bryan Jessop

The students of Ecole St. Michel have proven that there’s no minimum age in paying respects relating to Remembrance Day.

The local French Catholic school honoured Canada’s war veterans with multiple gestures of gratitude Wednesday, Nov. 11 both indoors and outdoors. Ceremonies and events included a gathering around 120 crosses built by Ecole St. Michel’s junior kindergarten and senior kindergarten students, who were guided by ECE worker Daniel Tremblay in the large-scale project. The crosses were placed into the grounds surrounding the school’s front entrance along Sherman Street early in the morning of Nov. 11. Students from junior kindergarten up to Grade 2 gathered around the crosses for a moment of silence as a tribute to members of Canada’s

armed forces who died in active service. The students were joined by school staff members, parents and other guests while live, Remembrance Day-themed music was played on a guitar.

During the event, local Boy Scouts and Girl Guides stood on guard around the school’s flag poles while students gathered around the site in a ‘horseshoe’ shape.

During the ceremony, many

random pedestrians stopped to take a closer look at the dedication created by the school’s youngest students.

STUDIES IN THE PROPHECIES OF DANIEL -every Sunday at 7:00 p.m., Seventh-day Adventist Church, 220 Erie St. N., Leamington. Topic: Ch. 5 "Running the Wrong Way". For more info call 519-322-1644. All welcome.

L EAMINGTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETS Wednesday, November 25, 7:30 p.m., Leamington United Church. Speaker: Susan Ross. Topic: "TeaNot Your Granny's Cuppa". All welcome for an evening of horticultural fellowship. Refreshments served. Info: Ken Clark 519-3250769.

Little Tomato Children’s Theatre announces AUDITIONS FOR PETER PAN JR. Saturday, November 28, 9:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. S. Leamington (back entrance). No appointments necessary. Calling all singers, dancers and actors - children and teens ages 5-19. Prepare one minute of a Disney or Broadway show age appropriate song sung a cappella or a dance. Performance dates are May 5, 6, 7 & 8, 2016 at UMEI Theatre. For further information please contact Sharon, 519-3265649.

HOT CHOCOLATE & COOKIESSaturday, November 28 at

Leamington's Christmas Parade, courtesy of St. John's Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N. Washroom facilities will be available.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING MALLSaturday, November 28 at the Sun Parlor Home for Senior Citizens, 175 Talbot St. East, Leamington. 60+ vendors offering something for everyone. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Free admission, free parking, free gifts for the first hundred shoppers through the doors after 9:00 a.m. Proceeds from this event go towards the purchase of a new mobility bus for the residents.

ADULT CRAFT NIGHT - Thursday, December 3 at 6:00 p.m., Leamington Library, 1 John St. Craft: Paint Chip Wreath, a simple but stunning wreath for Christmas made out of paint chips. You will need a wire wreath form and paint chips in your choice of colours. Call the library for more details 519-326-3441. Adult program. Register online or at the library.

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS CRAFTS - December 7-18 at Leamington Library, 1 John St. Drop in at the library and make a craft during the 12 days of Christmas. There will be a different craft prepared for parents and kids to make together. Stop at the desk and ask for your supplies and then have fun crafting together. Also, browse the great

collection of holiday titles and stop at the North Pole Selfie Station and take a pic with your finished creations. All ages welcome.

FREE KIDS CHRISTMAS PROGRAM - Friday, December 11 at 4:00 p.m. at The Bank Theatre, presented in partnership with SECC's New Canadian Youth. Program features the play "Charlie Brown's Christmas, a story and a visit by Santa!

FAITH REFORMED CHURCH

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR, Saturday, December 12, 9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., 1115 Seacliff Dr. Kingsville(at Graham Sd. Rd.). Bake sale, marketplace, bazaar & luncheon. Something for everyone!

BLUE CHRISTMAS SERVICEMonday, December 21 at 7:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 311 Sherk St. Leamington. For many, this season is anything but cheerful. For those who have lost loved ones, lost a job, are struggling with finances or illness, this is not an easy season. The Blue Christmas service is offered for those in the community who are not having a Merry Christmas and the friends that support them. All are invited to come and visit with one another in a liturgy that speaks of the love of God for the grieving.

Community Calendar is a FREE service for FREE events. Please see the

charges.

BANK THEATRE

NOTES

10 ERIE STREET SOUTH P.O. BOX 434 LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3W5 519-326-8805

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27TH @ 7:00 PM

DALE'S LAST FRIDAY COFFEE HOUSE

Dale Butler & Gord Harwood

Dennis Wiens

Meagan McGill & Lance Hardaker

Justin Latam

Jeff Wilkinson

Bernadine Reeb, Blaise McNeil & John Moran

David and Sharon Light

Bob Gray

Rick Taves

A great night of acoustic music, refreshments and Community. No cover charge but a free will "Pass the Hat" in support of The Bank Theatre and this month's charity "Southwestern Ontario Gleaners". Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

NOVEMBER 28TH @ 2:00 PM

Come out and celebrate the start of the Holiday Season with Gloria White's "GLORIA'S STRINGS" as they present a Christmas Jamboree. Refreshments and a friendly gathering to follow their one hour programme. A "pay what you can" donation will be appreciated and the funds presented to The Bank Theatre to assist in their endeavours to finish its renovations.

NOVEMBER 28TH @ 7:00 PM

"LEAMINGTON SINGS CHRISTMAS 2015" CD RELEASE PARTY

Featuring the talents of Dale Butler and John Moran, David and Sharon Light, Justin Latam, Andrew Taves, Martha Renaud and many more. Admission is $5. Pizza and pop will be available. CD's available for purchase: 2015 CD is $10; 2014 CD is $7 or both for $15.

DECEMBER 11TH @ 4:00 PM

KIDS CHRISTMAS - a joint venture with South Essex Community Council Youth and The Bank Theatre. More details to follow.

DECEMBER 12TH @ 7:30 PM

AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS

An Opera by Gian Carlo Menotti - under the direction of Erin Armstrong and featuring boy soprano WILL TRIGO EBERE as Amahl. Presented by Abridged Opera Company and The Bank Theatre. Tickets available from Counter Effects and Wharram's Jewellery - $15 General, $10 Students.

The project began after Tremblay presented to principal Richard Szwed the idea of allowing the junior and senior kindergarten students to create 20 crosses to place on the school’s grounds for Remembrance Day. Szwed was enthusiastic about the suggestion and challenged Tremblay and the JK/SK class to instead build 120 crosses for the then-upcoming Remembrance Day itinerary.

“It just sort of took on a life of its own from that point onward,” Szwed explained. “They worked hard on it and did a great job. It gave staff and students a moment to indulge in the reason behind it and to think about what it stands for.”

Younger grades at the school began observing Remembrance Day traditions indoors before heading to the school’s eastern grounds near the flagpoles. In the meantime, Grade 3 to 8 classes gathered in the Ecole St. Michel gymnasium in their own dedications to those who gave their lives in times of war.

www.imaginecinemas.com

Junior Kindergarten and Senior Kindergarten students at Ecole St. Michel constructed and set up 120 crosses with poppies on the school’s property along the front entrance as part of its Remembrance Day ceremonies. Students from all grades took part in honouring Canada’s war veterans on Wednesday, Nov. 11.

Horticultural Society readies for winter

By Catherine Riediger

As the leaves changed colour and the evenings became cooler, thoughts turned to preparing yards and gardens for the winter. Leamington Horticultural Society members have been busy preparing the flower pots for the BIA’s Christmas decorations, mulching and trimming trees, and discussing next year’s floral plans.

Guest speakers at the October monthly meeting were master gardeners Alan and Karen Batke. Their timely presentation on “Putting the Yard and Garden to Bed” provided the following helpful suggestions:

• The best time to cut back plants is after they have gone dormant.

• Silver foliage plants have hollow stems – do not prune until weather warms up in March.

• Dig up summer bulbs.

• For roses, mound soil over crowns and mulch after ground is frozen.

• Protect flower pots containing perennials. Keep pots watered until frozen and surround with bags of leaves for insulation.

• Add two to four layers of compost to feed the soil.

• Mulch after the ground is frozen as it helps protect perennials and holds the snow.

• There is still time for plants to get rooted before winter.

• Take care of containers and tools – ceramic pots, stakes and cages should be put away. Clean and sharpen gardening tools.

• Make a record of strengths and weaknesses for next year’s garden – photographs are a good way to do this.

• Select a good bird feeder and spend some time during the winter bird watching and leafing through garden catalogs and books to plan next year’s garden.

The Leamington Horticultural Society was chosen as one of the 140 organizations to create a 70th Anniversary Dutch-Canadian Friendship Tulip Garden featuring 700 tulip bulbs (350 red, 350 white). On October 31 the Society, municipal staff, councillors, CiB members, residents and school children participated in a planting ceremony and the planting of the flowerbed at the entrance to Rick Atkin Park on Robson Rd. A Bloom celebration will be held in the spring of 2016.

Two Red Maple trees have been planted at the Cenotaph to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the end of WWII and the 50th Anniversary of the Canadian Flag. One tree was planted under the “Replant Our Streets” program by the Royal Canadian Legion Br. 84 and the other one was planted by the Society as part of their annual tree planting program.

Also, under the Society’s annual tree planting program, a Pin Oak will be planted at the Sun Parlor Senior Citizens Home to replace one which has died.

November is election month for the Society and the transfer of responsibilities to the newly elected executive, board members and Committee Chairs. Best of luck to all those who have put their names forward.

Keeping it local is what Chances Gaming Lounge is all about!

With the objective of generating more money for the local community, Chances has taken on a new image and direction. Chances Gaming Lounge emerged onto the Entertainment scene by creating a hub for all and any local musicians every Thursday night! They have created an environment for musicians to showcase their talent with facilities large enough to host an abundance of family and friends

Chances Gaming Lounge has been a member of the community for over 20 years, providing gaming entertainment. In recent years, they have introduced new products and technologies like electronic Progressive Play on Demand games and TapTix machines to invigorate the traditional experience.

Chances has recognized their role of becoming the place to be in Leamington. Whether catching the game on one of the large televisions, grabbing a bite to eat from the great value menu, checking out our highlighted local small businesses at our Ladies’ Nights every Wednesday or even enjoying some of the exciting games, visitors will be helping the community they live in.

Local entertainers, artists and small businesses and vendors are encouraged to get in touch to see how they can participate. Find us on Facebook at Chances Leamington.

Christmas Kettle reaches Pelee Island

By Bryan Jessop

The Canadian Salvation Army’s Christmas bells will be ringing a little further south this year.

For the first time ever, the Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettles Campaign fundraiser has sent one of the country’s roughly 2,000 iconic red donation receptacles to Pelee Island. The kettle’s delivery to the Pelee Island LCBO branch marks the southernmost destination in Canadian history and the first time ever that one of the Canadian versions will have arrived via boat and departed by airplane.

The Pelee Island ferry brought the kettle to the island Monday, Nov. 16, where it was greeted by Salvation Army volunteers and Pelee Island residents Lois Armstrong and John Stephen, who sent it to the LCBO later that evening. Like all other kettles, it will be sent back to its point of origin at noon on Christmas Eve. With Dec. 24 coming after the local ferry service season comes to an end and in preparation of potential lake water freezing, arrangements have been made to have Cameron Air Services Ltd. — in care of Pelee Island Transportation Services — return the kettle to the mainland by sending it to Windsor’s airport.

“It’s the Little Kettle That Could,” said local Christmas Kettle Campaign Coordinator Kimberly Heaton with a laugh. “It’s really cool that we were able to do this. I hope it fills up and comes back stuffed.”

The idea to send one of the local kettles from Leamington to the island came to light after lists from large-scale retailers arrived highlighting which branches the Salvation Army was permitted to set up public donation points. Among the approval lists from grocery store chains included one from the LCBO, which included the Pelee Island branch. The local Salvation Army contacted the island’s LCBO manager Shirley Steingart asking if she’d like one of the red kettles to be delivered to her store. Steingart agreed enthusiastically and delivery arrangements were made from there.

Last year, the region represented by the Leamington Salvation Army raised $97,000 through its Christmas Kettle Campaign.

“I almost fell out of my chair when I heard the amount,” Heaton said. “I though we’d bring in $20,000, maybe $22,000. People are always really generous with the Salvation Army this time of year. For a lot of people, the ket-

tles are the only time they have contact with the Salvation Army.”

Canada wide, last year’s campaign raised approximately $22 million.

In Leamington, Christmas Kettles will appear on a fulltime basis at Real Canadian Superstore, Freshco, Food Basics, the LCBO and Walmart. Others will be stationed for specific hours at Canadian Tire and Shoppers Drug Mart while more portable versions will be sent to Home Hardware and Royal Bank of Canada (RBC).

The arrangement of volunteer hours to specific locations is being looked after through the volunteer efforts of Leamington Evangelical Mennonite Mission Church to the Real Canadian Superstore, to Walmart by the Full Gospel Tabernacle Church and to the LCBO on Wednesdays by Leamington United Church. Volunteers will also be ringing bells and manning the kettles during Leamington Flyers home games atop the seating area at Highbury Canco Arena.

“We’re really thankful to the groups that are coordinating for us,” said Heaton. “They’re saving us a great deal of time.”

A kettle was also available at Kingsville’s Santa Claus Parade on Saturday, Nov. 21 and will be at Leamington’s parade on Saturday, Nov. 28. The Leamington parade will begin at the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Erie Street at 6 p.m. and head north to the Leamington Fairgrounds.

At most locations, Christmas Kettles will be available to accept donations 10 hours per day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays. Volunteers, which are still needed, are stationed at a kettle for shifts of two hours. Anyone interested in offering time to run a Christmas Kettle may contact Heaton at 519-329-4470 or the local Salvation Army at 519-326-4901.

The campaign officially launched at noon on Monday, Nov. 23.

The Kingsville Christmas Parade on Saturday, Nov. 21 included a Salvation Army Red Kettle entry. A Salvation Army Christmas Kettle will also be included during the Leamington parade on Saturday, Nov. 28 at 6 p.m. to accept donations.

Stuff the Bus toy drive tops last year’s numbers

Well, he did it!

Following the success of the inaugural ‘Help Carlos Stuff the Bus Toy Drive’, Leamington’s Carlos Delgado vowed to top last year’s numbers.

And despite the less than ideal weather for camping out in an old bus, Delgado outdid himself. Posted in the Erie Street South Tim Hortons’ parking lot from 3 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 20 until 5 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 22, Delgado was determined to be the reason hundreds of Leamington youngsters smile on Christmas morning.

Despite the frozen fingers and toes, after 50 hours in the parking lot Delgado had collected 627 toys, 655 cans, 49 jackets, five snowsuits, 112 hats, gloves and scarves, 10 pairs of boots and other pieces of random clothing.

Last year, in 52 hours, he collected 520 toys.

The idea, he said, came to him about 10 years ago but it wasn’t until 8½ years later that he decided to do more than just think about it. So in August of 2014, Delgado said he began planning the campaign – recruiting others and spreading the word of his plans.

“I just thought it was time for me to step up and get involved,” he said.

While last year’s first attempt was definitely a success, Delgado decided to expand it a bit to include canned goods and clothing.

“Why not?” he said, “I’m here anyway.”

And he was glad he did.

But there are certain things that all the planning in the world can’t control –the weather, which he said, “was horrible.”

With the snow falling steadily on Saturday, and the wind picking up Sunday, Delgado said he struggled

to stay warm and get a few hours’ sleep.

But after going home and getting a brief nap, Delgado said it was “absolutely worth it” and he is already planning next year’s event.

He said looking at the results, a bus filled with toys of all kinds, makes him happy.

The highlight of the weekend for Delgado – the joy on the faces of the children as they brought toys up to donate to other youngsters.

“That was the best,” he said.

The generosity displayed by others was also amazing, he added. In addition to the generosity of Tim Hortons, donating $2 gift cards for those donating items as well as free hot chocolate, Delgado said there were also several offers of coffee and soup by random visitors to the drive-thru.

Produce from Coppola

Farms and gift cards from 2 for 1 Pizza were also offered to donors.

There was also a much appreciated visit from friends about 2:45 a.m. that helped him keep going throughout the night.

The support, he said, from the entire community was

phenomenal. And that, said Delgado, is why he made sure that all of the donations he collected stay in the community.

“I’m a Leamington guy,” he said, “so to me, it’s all about Leamington.”

Delgado was assisted by Tim Hortons’ operations

Tracy

and Tina

of

Aid Society. He said CAS will ensure that all of the donations wind up under the Christmas trees of less fortunate families in Leamington.

Carlos Delgado is pictured with some of the toys he collected in his toy drive on the weekend in the Erie Street South Tim Hortons’ parking lot.

manager

Hunter

Gatt

the Children’s

2015 Leamington & Mersea Historical Society Heritage award winners feted

(Continued from Nov. 18)

By C. Scott Holland

The 2015 Leamington & Mersea Historical Society’s Heritage Award winners were announced Fri. Oct. 23 at the Roma Club.

The accomplishments by all five award winners are tremendous and each one has served the area’s citizens in such a way that there is no doubt about them being honored for their efforts.

About 90 people were in attendance to honour the recipients.

The Heritage or Historic First Families, Groups or Organizations honor was bestowed upon the Leamington Kinsmen and Kinettes Clubs (see story Nov. 11).

The second award, the Heritage or Historic Rehabilitation or Restoration Award went to the Leamington Chamber of Commerce for their work in creating and maintaining Leamington’s Tomato Tourist Booth. Without the idea created by the Leamington Chamber of Commerce and H.J. Heinz’ creation, the tomato industry and its associated economy around Leamington might not have received

the recognition it deserves. From an idea proposed by the Leamington Chamber of Commerce, the engineering department of the H.J. Heinz Co. created what has been billed as “Canada’s largest tomato.”

During a span of three weeks in early 1961, on land donated by the federal government beside the federal building, Heinz engineers created a wooden form, then had a metal lathing cover it, and then added a cement plaster plus two layers of fiberglass and resin. The result was a large tomato tourist booth 14 feet high and 20 feet wide topped with a fiberglass green stem. When it opened on May 8, 1961, Heinz president F.T. Sherk, Leamington Chamber of Commerce president Don A. Paterson, Joseph Jeffery, Canada Chamber of Commerce president, Leamington Mayor Art Cullen, and former Miss Leamington National Tomato Fest beauty queen Carol Penner took part in its opening ceremonies.

Since that time it has had countless hours of operation thanks to many volunteers who have greeted upwards

The Churches of Leamington and District Welcome You

Leamington 519-252-0031

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.pccweb.ca/knoxleamnington/ 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

of 5,000 visitors each year.

Leamington’s symbolic “world’s largest tomato” has undergone little in the way of change since the day it opened but has undergone some minor changes both to the booth itself and the area it occupies. One of those changes came in the 1990s with the addition of Stewie Tomato and his family.

The immense support of Leamington’s Chamber of Commerce and the Municipality of Leamington has allowed the town’s most famous landmark to remain deeply connected to the community, its economy and serves as a memorable sight to everyone who has visited Leamington.

Chamber of Commerce manager Wendy Parsons, along with board members John Barrett (treasurer), Jessica Ottley (office support co-ordinator) and Barb Towns (Chamber President) accepted the plaque from sponsor Jake Fehr of UniFab Inc.

Of all the awards presented, the one for Heritage or Historic Posthumous Contribution was a tribute to the late Rick Atkin who was a Leamington councillor.

From an early age, Rick Atkin sensed that he was good at serving the public. As a 16-year-old living in the city of Windsor, he got a summer job with the department of parks and recreation then went on to graduate from Fanshawe College with a degree in recreation management. Next he received a teaching degree from the University of Windsor.

In 1985 Atkin came to Leamington and became the town’s director of recreation and community services. He held the position of recreation director until Mersea Township and Leamington amalgamated in 2000. At that time he was named the Director of Community Services for the Municipality of Leamington.

Two of his major tenets drew him deeper into the political trenches. He wanted to “focus on people” and “wanted to see new growth and development within the community.”

In 2006 Atkin was one of 15 people who ran for a seat on Leamington Council. He had the third largest vote total and gained a seat. He ran for a second term in 2010 and once again had a strong finish as he placed second overall. With a wealth of experience he gained a third term late in 2014 when he finished third out of 17 candidates. For many years he

was Council’s representative on ERCA and active with the Leamington Lions Club.

Among his many causes and accomplishments, Atkin was a major force in shaping the Leamington Marina into being the jewel it is today. He was a strong advocate for, and initiated the trailways within Leamington (which run from the marina to an area beside the new town hall), the addition of the twin pad arenas at the Sherk Complex, offices at the former Selkirk school, the acquisition of the Federal Building for the Leamington Arts Association, improving sports facilities, initiating annual sports awards, and training harness horses. As well, he was an avid jogger, played golf, curled and watched Leamington Jr. B Flyers’ hockey games.

Rick Atkin lived a full life full of vigor and with a deep dedication to not only serving Leamington but also for his most outstanding attribute – his love of building and creating a better Leamington in which all could live.

His sister Mary Rochon and brother, Don Atkin accepted the award sponsored by Kevin Reid and Reid Funeral Home.

The Heritage or Historic Contribution Living Award was garnered by Don “Shorty” Nicholson. As MC Paul Bunnett-Jones noted, “He has been nothing more than a giant when it comes to civic work and pride in Leamington.”

nior hockey with the Myles Meteors – the forerunner of today’s Leamington Jr. B Flyers, then as a young man he began coaching Leamington Minor Hockey teams. He served 34 years as a coach, 24 of those as an assistant and head coach of the Johnston Beavers travel team (ages 7-8). He was the president of the Leamington and District Minor Hockey Association from 1968 to 1974 and served on its executive for many years.

Nicholson has been a member of several service clubs including the Leamington Goodfellows, with whom he has been instrumental in their annual Christmas basket program, and the Leamington Lions Club. He served as both a vice-president and president of the Lions Club in the 1980s.

But Nicholson’s largest impact upon Leamington was as a Council member. He was first elected as a Councillor in 1985, and in 1993 when Mayor Bruce Crozier was elected as an area MPP he was elevated to the position of DeputyReeve on Council. His service to Leamington, as a Council member, extended over 20 consecutive years.

Among the various committees he sat on as a Councillor were: community services, BIA, industrial, waterfront, public works finance and the Leamington Police Commission. In 1994 he became a director of the Association of Small Urban Communities.

There have been few people in or around Leamington who have exhibited the zeal to make Leamington a better community while providing responsible leadership in areas ranging from sports to heritage to politics.

Don Nicholson has embodied that spirit.

His contributions to both the town of Leamington and the former Mersea Township have been many.

As a youth he played Ju-

In March 1992 he initiated a beautification program for downtown Leamington with businesses and citizens adopting hanging baskets of flowers. That program became very prosperous and is now an annual part of the Municipality of Leamington’s budget and public works program, also for several years he was involved with Leamington’s first Communities in Bloom

(Continued on page 15)

Winner of the 2015 LMHS Heritage or Historic Contribution (Living) is Don Nicholson. Nicholson’s lifelong contributions to the area include work with many service clubs, over 20 consecutive years on town Council, over 30 years with Leamington and Southpoint Minor Hockey plus work with on various town committees and the original Communities in Bloom program. Presenting the award to Nicholson (right) on behalf of Udo Renner Insurance and Investments is Society president Paul Bunnett-Jones (left).

Leamington and Mersea Historical Society rep Bill Gay (left) with 2015 LMHS Heritage or Historic Meritorious award winner Kirk Bowman (right)

Photos by C. Scott Holland

Heritage award winners

(Continued from page 14)

program.

On behalf of Udo Renner Insurance and Investments, Paul Bunnett-Jones presented Nicholson with the award.

The 2025 Leamington and Mersea Historical Heritage or Historic Society Meritorious Service Award was bestowed upon Leamington native Kirk Bowman.

From the time he was a youth in Leamington Minor hockey, it was evident that Bowman’s talent in the sport would take him far.

He won several scoring titles before being a member of the 1967-68 Leamington Midgets OMHA “AA” champs. A stint with the Jr. B Toronto Marlies and some Jr. A with Sarnia and Guelph followed. In 1970-71 he was the league’s top goal scorer and MVP for Guelph C.M.C Jr. A. Several years in the IHL, HL and SHL followed before he played with the 1973-74 WHA Los Angeles Sharks. From there he worked his way upward and from 1976-78 he was with the NHL Chicago Blackhawks.

As Bowman told those present, “I was in some pretty good company, including another Chicago rookie by the name of Bobby Orr.”

He headed to Europe, where from 1979-84 he was with Schwenningen, Germany SERC - 1 German Bundesliga and helped the team go from second Bundesliga to first Bundesliga. He ended his European playing/coaching days with the Bern Bears (1984-88).

Upon returning back to Leamington, Bowman continued putting his hockey skills to use. He was head coach of the Leamington Jr. C Flyers (1989-1992) and coached minor hockey teams ranging from mites to midgets (both girls and boys) and won silver sticks, OMHA and OHF championships. As well, he has been a mentor for Southpoint Minor Hockey programs over the years and an owner/instructor of the Kirk Bowman Hockey School, which was initiated in 1990 and has been running for 25 consecutive years and includes skating and skills sessions throughout the winter. To top all of that, he has been director of CanAm adult hockey schools in Guelph for many years and has taught hockey skills to some top name players like Meghan Agosta and Steve Ott.

The evening’s proceeds help the Leamington & Mersea Historical Society maintain their artifacts and museum. The Society meets on the fourth Saturday of most months at the Leamington Half Century Centre unless otherwise noted at 10:30 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The 2015 Heritage or Historic Restoration or Rehabilitation award winner was bestowed upon the Leamington Chamber of Commerce for their work in maintaining one of Leamington’s most familiar landmarks – the large Tomato Tourist Booth on Talbot St. W. Award sponsor Jake Fehr of Uni-Fab Inc. (2nd left) is pictured along with (l-r) Chamber manager Wendy Parsons, John Barnett (Chamber treasurer), Barb Towns (Chamber president), and Jessica Ottley (office support co-ordinator). (Photos by C. Scott Holland)

LMHS president Paul Bunnett-Jones (far left) and Bill Gay (2nd right) honoured 2015 Heritage or Historic Conribution (Posthumous) award winner, the late Rick Atkin, by presenting the plaque to his sister Mary Rochon (2nd left) and Wayne Rochon (right). The award was sponsored by Reid Funeral Home.

New community hub opening in Leamington

A new community hub will be located at 33 Princess Street in Leamington where Employment and Social Services, the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society and the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit will offer their services. Central 33 will offer more space and more resources in one, more centralized, location.

The Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society initiated the coming together of three major community programs and organizations into this multi-service community hub and the vision will continue to unfold as several new partners are welcomed. This will not only promote cost-effectiveness, but it will provide a working model of linked supports and

services for the Leamington, Kingsville and surrounding areas that can be accessed in one central Leamington location.

“Together, our organizations are creating a synergy and cohesive approach to service delivery that can only have a positive impact on how we deliver the highest calibre of programs to children, youth and families of Essex County,” said Bill Bevan, CEO of the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society.

The Windsor-Essex Health Unit has a small office at 215 Talbot Street and another office at the Essex Civic Centre, both will be consolidated at Central 33.

“The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit looks forward

to working with its partners to better serve our communities in Windsor-Essex County,” said Dr. Gary Kirk, Medical Officer of Health and CEO. “We anticipate synergies at this site because of the co-location of several social services and health agencies.”

When leases are finalized the 19 Ontario Works staff will be joined by CAS staff currently located at their John Street location on April 1, 2016. Approximately 30 employees from the Health Unit will arrive between April 1 and June 30, 2016. “We are very pleased about the news of Central 33, our Neighbourhood of Care and the soon to open Erie Shores Hospice are all phases of development to improving access to care in the County,” commented Terry Shields, CEO at Leamington District Memorial Hospital.

Kingsville kicks off Christmas season with parade and Fantasy of Lights

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Kingsville, with the arrival of Santa Claus Saturday night, as the snow fell steadily during the annual Santa Claus Parade. The streets were lined with families anxiously awaiting his arrival, as the amazing bands, glowing floats and dozens of other groups wowed the crowd. Following the parade, Santa performed his annual duty of plugging in the cord to mark the start of the Fantasy of Lights. To signal the popular event, fireworks filled the skies over Lakeside Park. Pictured here, highlights of the fun-filled night.

Several bands entertained the crowds in Kingsville Saturday night, including the Renaissance High School Band and its rendition of ‘Uptown Funk’.

www.griefshare.org/holidays ®

The floats…

Kashlynn Young, 3, of Leamington, and Kaleigh Woollven, 5, of Kingsville, were delighted when the lights came on for the Fantasy of Lights Saturday night.

The crowd…

CARD OF THANKS

The Family of Harlan Nash would like to sincerely thank our neighbours, friends and family for all of the expressions of sympathy. We appreciate all the cards, food, donations, calls and messages of condolence that we received! Our heartfelt thanks go out to you all. May God bless you.

The Nash Family

CARD OF THANKS

The family of the late Shirley Belle Roach would like to thank everyone for their love and support shown to us during the loss of our beloved Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma and GreatGreat-Grandma. The family appreciates the lovely flowers and generous donations that were given in memory of Mom.

A very special thank you to the nurses on 2nd Floor North at Leamington District Memorial Hospital for your outstanding compassion and care you gave to Mom. You are truly amazing people!!!

Thank you to PSWs Kassey & June... you were Mom's special angels with your never ending kindness. Mom had a special place in her heart for you great gals. Also thanks to the grandchildren and great-grandchildren who carried Mom to her final resting place and to the staff of Reid Funeral Home. You are missed Mom but will live in our hearts forever. The Roach Family

and how

You left us with

Murray & Brenda were married November 27, 1965 at Wheatley United Church. They have three children, Kim & Martin Campbell, Krista and Nat Milana and Nick, and six wonderful grandchildren. In December Murray and Brenda will take an anniversary trip south.

Murray & Brenda Shilson

OBITUARY

Gladys Wharram

Gladys Pearl Wharram (nee Shilson), 92 years, passed away into the hands of her Lord on Thursday November 19, 2015 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital.

Beloved wife of the late Grant Wharram (1997). Dear mother of Carole Mazzanti (the late Gerry), Garry, Judy Funkenhauser (Gunther) and Nancy Wols (Bernie Rivest). Nine grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter also survive. Predeceased by two grandchildren, Trevor and Shaundra. Dear sister of Ralph Shilson (Shirley), Hazel McMillan (Bill) and Muriel Wigle (Harold). Predeceased by brothers Clair, Leonard, Morley and Wilmot Shilson. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

A graveside service celebrating Gladys’s life was held at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery, 366 Talbot Street West, Leamington, on Tuesday, November 24, 2015. Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Trillium Gift of Life Foundation (organ and tissue donation saves lives), 522 University Ave., Suite 900, Toronto, ON M5G 1W7.

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

OBITUARY

Paul Klassen, 90 years, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at the Leamington Mennonite Home.

Dear son of the late Frank and Katharina Klassen. Dear husband of Faye Klassen. Dear father of Bruce (MaryAnn) and Karrie Klassen. Dear grandfather of Sydney Klassen. Dear brother of Hedy Klassen, Frances Siemens and Ruth Klassen. Dear uncle to many nieces and nephews, and a dear friend to many more. Paul was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and moved to Leamington in his very early years. Looking to make a better life for himself, he first began by selling produce in Ruthven, then purchased Erie Appliances in the late 1950s. Later, he moved into real estate and land development by creating Klassen Real Estate Inc. with Faye in the early 1970s. Finally, Paul became a clothier when Paul and Faye acquired Feldman’s Men’s and Boy’s Wear in the early 1980s. If Paul could sell it, Paul loved it, and it was through these many ‘adventures’ that Paul touched many people throughout the community. Paul retired in 1999 and moved to Toronto to be closer to his new granddaughter and family, returning to Leamington frequently to visit. In his later years, Paul made the Leamington Mennonite Home his home. Paul loved his faith, his family, his friends, and his airplanes. He will be missed.

Visiting is at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington, on Friday, November 27 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Funeral Service to celebrate Paul’s life will be held from the Leamington United Mennonite Church, 78 Oak Street East, Leamington, on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at 10 a.m. Rev. Victor Winter officiating. Interment Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Billy Graham Association, 20 Hopewell Way NE, Calgary, AB T3J 5H5.

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

OBITUARY

Shirley Marie Young

July 29, 1934 – November 12, 2015

Shirley Marie Young (Dawson) passed away peacefully with family at her side at the Collingwood General & Marine Hospital in her 81st year after courageously enduring Pulmonary Fibrosis for 2 years.

Shirley was born in Leamington, Ontario, and spent her formative years in Essex County. She met Fred Young at a summer dance where they both fell in love and were married soon after. They raised three children – Laura, Libby and John – and shared with them their passion for adventure, travel and skiing.

Shirley graduated from the University of Toronto and began her teaching career in primary school for 20 years. She was a dedicated mother to her children and grandchildren, and devoted many hours volunteering and caring for others – providing encouragement, kindness and love.

Shirley is survived by Fred, her soulmate for 60 years; her children Laura (Andy), Libby (David) and John (Nancy); her grandchildren Iain (Tanis), Katie, J.P., Jocelyn, Victoria and Nick, as well as her brothers Doug and Kevin Dawson and their families, and her mother Dorothy.

A celebration of Shirley’s life was held on Tuesday, November 24, 2015 at St. George’s Anglican Church in Clarksburg, Ontario.

Friends wishing to remember Shirley can make simple acts of kindness to others or a donation in her name to the Christian Children’s Fund Canada.

OBITUARY

John Vanderbeek

John Vanderbeek, 86 years, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Thursday, November 19, 2015.

Beloved husband of the late Wilhelmina (May 14, 2015). Dear father of Jake (Kathleen), John (Sandy), Shirley Goddard (Bruce), Jeff (Terri). Loving grandfather of thirteen grandchildren and great-grandfather of six greatgrandchildren.

At John’s request, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service to celebrate John’s life will take place at Faith Reformed Church, 1115 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville on Friday, November 27, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. Rev. Ken Labbe officiating.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to Leamington Hospital Foundation - Hospice or Faith Reformed Church.

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

Paul Klassen

Gore Hill P.S. Fills 107 Shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child

Gore Hill Public School students proved once again that they care about their global community. For the past month, students have been filling shoeboxes for the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Campaign. The school successfully collected 107 shoeboxes which were delivered to Meadowbrook Church to be forwarded for delivery to several countries including Senegal, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Ukraine and Chile. Principal’s Council members proudly stand near the 107 boxes collected for Operation Christmas Child. From left to right are Noah Garton, Morgan Robinson, Rachel Wong, Barrett Enns, Omar Elaloul, Nickolay vonVeenschoten, Kailey Foster.

(Submitted photos)

COURTESY OF LEXUS

Lexus AWD intuitively channels power to wheels to improve traction and optimize performance. So you stay in control of the road all winter long.

Principal’s Council members load boxes that will be delivered to needy students in South America and Africa as part of the Samaritan Purse Operation Christmas Child.

Southpoint Minor Hockey Scotiabank Select 7s

Front row, left

Koehler, Owen Deneau, Dylan Marchand, Grant Symons, Zack Liebrock. Middle row:

Landen Bradley,

Brown, Mason Dualt, Holdyn Bailey. Back row: Caidon Fuller, James Sonoski, Alieviah McAndrews, Nicholas Brophey. Absent from photo is goaltender Andrew Demant. (Submitted photo)

Skaters of all ages took to the ice at Unico Arena Friday to celebrate National Sports Jersey Day, including four-yearold Kallen Driedger.

Julie Sherman tightens the skates of her daughter, 10-year-old Emily Dann, before they head out on the ice at the free skate offered by the municipality to mark National Jersey Day on Friday.

Brayden Foster, 5, of Wheatley practiced his stopping skills while taking advantage of the ‘free skate’ offered by the municipality.

Sunbrite

Peewees

shut out

Harrow

Sunbrite Peeweees faced Harrow Blue on the Highbury rink on Saturday, Nov. 21.

Southland Bantams move into first place

Friday night at Unico arena the battle of the two top Bantam teams took place. With only one point separating the two teams it was a game to remember.

Team 10 scored first with a shot from the blue line that caught goaltender Nathan Jacobs by surprise, but it was all Southland T5 after that! It started with Hewer passing over to Ryan Cherneski, who stick-handled around 3 players and took a shot that slid off the heel of his stick and surprised the goalie, tying the game at 1.

Just thirty seconds into the game, Marcus Stanley scored the first goal for Sunbrite, assisted by Evan Ouellette, to put their team on the board. Sunbrite kept the pressure on as Tyler Swaddling scored the second goal. The boys showed great teamwork and Dawson Collison scored another goal for Sunbrite. With just a half-second left in the first period, Marcus Stanley handed Massimo West a saucer pass that he tucked in for the fourth goal. Mitchel Defrancisco had a few scoring opportunities but the puck just couldn’t get to the back of the net.

With only minutes left in the second period, Santiago Cabral made a cross-ice pass to Owen Michael Arthur Lindsey who wound up a slap shot that an NHL goalie couldn’t have stopped and scored!

Owen wasn’t done yet. He took another pass from defense partner Santiago Cabral and took a wicked wrist shot that caught the goalie pad and bounced in the net.

Branden Shagat made a sweet pass over to Mason Cabral, who made no mistake and scored to end the game with a 4-1 win for Southland and take sole possession of first place.

Early into the second period, Dawson Collision scored another goal for Sunbrite. Just seconds later, Marcus Stanley scored the final goal for Sunbrite, assisted by Evan Ouellette.

Third period was played well by both teams. Sunbrite’s defensemen Josh Saad, Wyatt Stewart, Matteo Fortuna, Ethan Hills and Corrigan Heinrichs played hard to keep Harrow out of their zone.

The game ended in a 6-0 win for Sunbrite.

RECREATION EVENTS RECREATION EVENTS

LEAMINGTON KINSMEN RECREATION COMPLEX LEAMINGTON KINSMEN RECREATION COMPLEX

Winter 1 session began this week. View the Activity Guide online www.leamington.ca/recreation for details on all programs & classes!

Complex Pool: have you considered becoming certified as a Lifeguard? The Complex is looking for more lifeguards. An interesting, part-time career for teens or young retirees. Ask for more details.

Youth Programs: Red Cross Swim lessons, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Parent/Tot and Youth Indoor Soccer, Kirk Bowman Hockey Camps, Kindernastics, Power Tumbling, Youth Distance Running. Power Tumbling, Jr. Racquetball, Youth Basketball, Velocity Volleyball Academy, Babysitter Training Course, Home Alone Course.

Adult Programs: Fitness & Aquatic Fitness – 55 Classes per week, Indoor Cycling Spin Classes – 11 classes per week, Zumba, Mom & Baby classes – Stoller Fit, Mom & Tot Aquafit, Weight Room & Cardio Fitness, Masters Swimming, Scuba Lessons, Racquetball/ Squash, Pickelball, able Tennis, 55+ Badminton, Health Track – prevention/maintenance program, Red Cross First Aid CPR/AED Training, Personal Trainers & Nutrition & Wellness Coaches, 1 day workshop: Revive your Metabolism with Helen Peters.

One Day Sale - Friday November 27th - Purchase a 1 month membership for only $30 & HST. Get an early start on your New Year Shape Up! Hurry in /or Phone the Complex this Friday only from 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. to purchase the 1 month Complex Special! Rock ‘n Swim – Fri. Dec. 4th from 7:15 – 9:00 p.m. Swim to the sounds of your favourite music played by Chick Reynolds DJ Service. Music is sponsored by UMEI Christian Highschool.

Christmas Gift Certificates - available in any $ increment for everyone on your list! 3 month New Year Shape-Up special, meet with a Personal Trainer, Student memberships, Youth Skate/ Swim/Gym Punch pass.

Child Minding Centre - inside the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex – Morning and evening hours available. Sign your children into the Complex Child Care room while you visit the Weightroom or take part in fitness.

Birthday parties, Group parties, Team parties – book your Activity and Pizza Party at the Complex. Kids love all the fun of an activity – choose from swimming, skating, gym or kindernastics!

Come Exercise at the Kinsmen Recreation Complex - 249 Sherk St. Leamington.

249 Sherk St., Leamington 519-322-2337

email: complex@leamington.ca www.leamington.ca/recreation

TKO for believability

It’s often said that when Hollywood presents a movie about a real-life war, the first casualty is the truth.

It’s not a difficult statement to back up. There’s a movie whose title escapes me about an American brigade that pulls off a pretty impressive feat during WWII — never mind the fact that it was based on a string of events that took place before the Americans actually joined the war.

Minor detail, right?

My wife and I visited a few friends over the past weekend and shortly after we arrived, the channel the TV happened to be tuned in to started playing the movie Rocky IV. Before I go any further, let it be known that the first and fourth efforts are my favourites from within the Rocky franchise. (followed closely by Rocky III — I mean, he fights Hulk Hogan and Mr. T… how cools is that?).

Rocky IV of course is the one where the Italian Stallion takes on the steroid-charged Russian played by Dolph Lundgren. Lundgren actually does an admiral job playing a nearly emotionless Soviet freak of nature, considering the fact that he’s actually Swedish. If you enter the words “I must” as a Google search, the first in the list of autofill phrases is “I must break you” — an iconic line from the film as recognizable for some as “Frankly my dear, I don’t give a damn,” “say hello to my little friend!” or even “I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore.”

As much as I’ve enjoyed the Rocky movies, there are certain elements from the actual boxing scenes that I find difficult to digest. I’m nearly the furthest thing from an expert on the sport, but even to me, the fallacies are almost painfully obvious.

First, there’s the percentage of punches that actually find their target. I didn’t recall seeing a single punch by either fighter in the Balboa vs. Drago fight that didn’t meet its mark (although I’ll admit I was more than a bit distracted by the plate full of chicken wings sitting in front of me). In the real world, you won’t see too many fights where even a dominating winner does better than 40 per cent. Boxers seem to have some pretty impressive reflexes and the vast majority tend to approach their opponents with gloves held directly in front of their faces in preparation of blocking a jab or two.

What’s worse is how both Rocky and his opponents actually “throw” their punches. They pull their gloves back in wind ups reminiscent of characters in old Bugs Bunny cartoons. The average professional boxer would have enough time to eat a sandwich and chase it with a litre of water before successfully ducking/avoiding such a swing.

Then of course there’s the laboratory test where the big Russian throws a punch measuring 2,150 psi — the equivalent of 8,600 pounds assuming his glove’s impact area is in the neighbourhood of four square inches. Actual documented studies involving elite boxers have found that anything in excess of 1,000 pounds is exceptionally high.

Rocky movies aren’t alone. Many a Hollywood film would be easier to swallow had the writers and/or producers received some guidance from people who actually know the sport upon which their movies are based. Hockey movies can be pretty painful to watch. Youngblood was bad (nobody actually trips over a blue line), The Mighty Ducks was worse. Coaching systems can be pretty complex and difficult to spot to even some of the more seasoned fans, but the friggin’ “Flying V?” That was nothing short of asinine. The nature of the offensive rush was pretty self-explanatory; the centre is flanked evenly by his wingers who are a few feet behind him while the defensemen are another few feet further back and outward, basically along the boards — forming a “V.”

If anyone other than the centre is carrying the puck (the play starts on the rushing team’s side of the red line, if I remember correctly), he’ll be offside after he crosses the blue line. The three attacking forwards were close enough together that they could be covered by TWO defenders — way to make it easy on them. Finally, one well-placed poke check or turnover and splitting the defence becomes about as difficult as navigating a plane between the north and south poles.

And don’t even get me started on the “knuckle puck.” In real life, it’d be a shot every goalie dreams about facing. Oh, and how about Iceland being the most fearsome international team? That would be like trying to convince Italy or Germany that Canada’s national soccer team would be their most formidable opposition.

Yes, even my beloved Slap Shot gets a bit out of hand. The Hanson brothers wouldn’t have had the chance to pull off about 90 per cent of their shenanigans, considering the misconducts and suspensions that would have been handed out (I was only three years old in 1977, but I’d be willing to bet the officiating wasn’t THAT lax, even back then).

Oh, I realize I’m barely scratching the surface here — The Longest Yard, Unnecessary Roughness, The Replacements and The Waterboy aren’t exactly football’s best representations. Then there’s Days of Thunder (Top Gun with race cars). Yup, the winner of the Daytona 500 can just wander up to his crew chief for a quiet conversation immediately after the race without being swarmed by the media, security, race officials and fellow crew members.

and assessment is between 5 pm and 6 pm, Friday, November 27 and Monday, November 30 only

further

please visit our website at www.leamingtonlasers.ca

I can’t wait for there to be a movie about the Detroit Lions. At least IT will be close to the real thing, with spectators rolling their eyes almost non-stop for a couple hours.

BRYAN JESSOP

Jessop’s Journal

Stars weekend results

Community Trophy Peewee Girls played a tough match against Essex White on Saturday.

The first period was a draw with Southpoint ringing the post twice. Midway through the second period Alyssa Lamb scored an unassisted goal. She drove to the net and was stopped by the goalie but continued after the puck behind the net. Securing it, she did a wraparound and put the puck in the corner. Essex then responded with 2 of their own. In the third, Alyssa Lamb scored her second of the night to pull even with Essex and then Brienna Tiessen scored the winning goal. The Southpoint team improved their passing as the game went on and they definitely showed some aggressive play around the Essex net.

On Sunday, Community Trophy played Tecumseh and won 8-0. Courtney Jeffery earned a shutout. Alyssa Lamb scored 4 goals and had 2 assists. Ava Hildebrandt had 2 goals and 1 assist. Alexa Taylor and Brienna Tiessen each had a goal and Kaitlynn Pickard picked up an assist.

The Leamington Kinsmen Southpoint Intermediate Stars played the LaSalle Sabre Cats on Sunday afternoon at the Highbury Rink. The Lady Stars struggled throughout this contest as they gave up three unanswered goals. The game ended with LaSalle posting a 3-0 win.

The Leamington Kinsmen Lady Stars played the second game of a doubleheader against their Southpoint rivals, the WFCU Intermediate Stars.

The Kinsmen Ladies played much better in this game with assistant captain Kim Goyeau leading the way and scoring a hat trick en route to a big 5-1 win! Single goals were scored by Kayla Collison and Lea Marshall. Scoring the assists were Kelsey Babkirk (2), Cristina Pearce, Kasia Dyck, Mackenzie Mahon, Joline Driedger, Krista Marshall and Jenn Fehr. Sam Hartleib played amazing throughout this game, allowing just one goal against.

Kate Derbyshire scored the lone WFCU goal with just 9 seconds remaining in the second period. Scoring the assists for WFCU were Chase Cabral and Mackenzie Church.

Novice Grey shuts out Essex 9-0

On Sat. Nov. 21 the Southpoint Community Muffler Novice grey team travelled to Essex to take on Essex. Southpoint dominated the game. Tyler Franklin scored a hat trick in the first period, while teammate Owen Pimentel showed off his backhand shot to find the back of the Essex net. Megan Derbyshire and Logan Lefaive did a great job on defense.

In the second period, Carson Stadler, Liam Brown and Grant Symons were unstoppable as they each got the puck past the Essex goalie.

Southpoint stayed physically powerful in the third period with great offence by Julian Pereira and Seth Janzen. Nicholas Beaudoin was on fire defensively. Tyler Franklin’s strong skating and hard wrist shot allowed him to pop 2 more goals in the Essex net. Tayler Insley’s debut as goalie will be very memorable as she obtained a 9-0 shutout.

SP Ford Atoms LL win, lose

On Nov. 14, Southpoint Ford Atoms LL faced Kingsville #9. Jack Thomas played a solid game and extended his shutout streak to 91:45 before getting beat in the third period.

SP Ford notched four goals in the first period and one in the third for a 5-2 win. Owen Jeffery paced Southpoint with 2 goals and one assist. Joey Caradonna got a goal and an assist. Single tallies went to Drennan Vince, who scored 9 seconds into the first period, and Jeremy Dueck who banged in a rebound. Connor Janzen had 2 assists, while single assists went to Bryce Mazzella and Lucas Neufeld.

SP Ford had their 3-game winning streak snapped on Nov. 21 by a tenacious Essex team supported with excellent goaltending. Southpoint played hard but could only manage to solve the Essex goaltending once when Jonathan Semaan went hard to the net and converted a rebound off the shot by Nathan Ribble. Jack Thomas got the other assist on the lone Southpoint goal. Jack Thomas made a number of difficult saves in the 3-1 loss.

Rhine Danube

bowling results

The following are the Rhine Danube bowling league scores for Nov. 9.

High Scratch Games: Brent Bishop 279, Kevin Kosempel 255, Jack Valade 238.

High Scratch Series: Brent Bishop 680, Kevin Kosempel 644, Heinz Kosempel 631.

High Handicap Games: Kevin Kosempel 291, Brent Bishop 290, Manfred Dickau 276.

High Handicap Series: Manfred Dickau 797, Jerry Popa 766, Kevin Kosempel 752.

Standings: Dickau Construction 45, Del Fresco 40, Weil’s Food 33, Taki’s 28, Fittler Farms 28, Rhine Danube 15.

Novice Blue faces White

Leamington Chrysler Southpoint Novice Team Blue faced Novice Team White on Sat. Nov. 20. This game was great with end-to-end action. Both goalies made this game even more exciting.

Scoring for Team Blue was Nathan Omar, Chase Simpson with Matteo Santos popping in two to win with a final score of 4-2.

Come on out Saturday morning to the Highbury rink and support the local Southpoint Novice teams!

Gillett Bantams lose to Essex

The Gillett Sheet Metal Bantams played host to Essex #1 on Nov. 20 on the Unico ice in Leamington.

The game got off to a fast start with rushes both ways on the ice. The visitors got on the board first with a goal in the seventh minute by Erik Pearson. Andrew Verhaeghe evened the score on a behind-the-net bounce off the goaltender, assisted by Eric Wright. Essex replied 20 seconds later and the first period ended 2-1 for the visitors.

The second period was fast paced with end-to-end action and few whistles. Tyler Dibbley stood tall in the Southpoint net, keeping his squad in the game. The offence couldn’t connect and the second period stayed scoreless.

The third period started off with both sides taking penalties. Essex extended the lead to 3-1 in the fifth minute of the third. With both sides taking penalties, the pace of the game slowed to a crawl. Southpoint couldn’t get any momentum going, and Essex added a goal late to make the final 4-1 in favour of the visitors.

WITH THEIR CLASSIC HITS Saturday, November 28

CELTIC WOMAN HOME FOR CHRISTMAS THE SYMPHONY TOUR OPEN TO ALL AGES Thursday, December 10

STYX Saturday, December 12

THE S’AINTS SLEIGHING HUNGER A CHARITY CONCERT BENEFITING LOCAL FOOD BANKS OPEN TO ALL AGES

Sunday, December 20

THE TENORS UNDER ONE SKY TOUR Tuesday, December 22

EDDIE MONEY & STARSHIP

Saturday, January 16

DANCING WITH THE STARS LIVE! DANCE ALL NIGHT TOUR! OPEN TO ALL AGES Friday, January 22 4pm & 9pm

VANCE JOY FIRE AND THE FLOOD TOUR WITH SPECIAL GUEST REUBEN AND THE DARK OPEN TO ALL AGES Monday, January 25

TRACY MORGAN: PICKING UP THE PIECES Saturday, February 6

BILL ENGVALL Saturday, February 20

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL Friday, February 26

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL Saturday, February 27 4pm & 9pm

JOHNNY REID WHAT LOVE IS ALL ABOUT Saturday, March 19

PAUL ZERDIN 2015 AMERICA’S GOT TALENT WINNER Saturday, March 26

Tickets on sale November 29!

Seth Janzen (left) of Community Muffler prepares for a face off against Essex .

The East Mersea Public School Mustangs were one of six teams to form a Grade 7-8 girls volleyball team for a one-day tournament hosted by UMEI Christian High School Monday, Nov. 16. The Mustangs started the tournament against Comber Centennial, winning the first set 25-17 and losing the second set 25-22. Comber went on to win the tournament.

UMEI hosts elementary tournament

By Bryan Jessop

Thanks to the efforts of UMEI Christian High School students, six local elementary school groups had a ‘ball’ at the Mersea Road 6 facility.

The UMEI senior recreation and leadership course students hosted a volleyball tournament for Grade 7 and 8 students Monday, Nov. 16 and were greeted by teams representing Leamington, Kingsville, Comber and Wheatley Schools. The Comber Centennial Cougars, East Mersea Mustangs, Gore Hill Gators, Jack Miner Jaguars, Mount Carmel Blytheswood Sharks and Wheatley Area Public School Warriors converged at the local high school’s gymnasium, which was split into two volleyball courts to accommodate a round robin schedule and playoff quarterfinals, semis and championships.

The teams were divided into two pools of three, where each faced the other two for a pair of standard 25-point sets. Playoffs took on a unique format, where

first- and fourth-place squads earned byes into the semifinals while second met third and fifth took on sixth in the quarterfinals. UMEI athletic director Darcy Bults explained that the format was used to ensure more evenly-matched playoff rounds.

“It worked out really well,” Bults said. “The quarters and semis were pretty intense. The whole thing went smoothly. Our students did an amazing job — we heard a lot of positive feedback from parents and coaches.”

The team of Grade 11 and 12 students were responsible for arranging the tournament’s schedule, officiating matches and manning the lobby canteen that offered snacks and beverages to participating players. The same students managed an elementary school badminton tournament hosted by UMEI during the 2014-15 school year and will also present a basketball tournament in January of next year and another badminton

tournament in the spring of 2016.

“The volleyball tournament was a huge success,” said Grade 11 UMEI recreation and leadership student Luther Heys. “The opportunity to create and plan a tournament from the ground up was a really great leadership experience. We certainly learned skills that will be important for post secondary and future success. It was really fun to see how it all turned out.”

The organizational experience was considered valuable by Heys as well as fellow participating students.

“I know that planning a tournament like this with my classmates influences my ability to work with others and problem solve,” explained Grade 11 recreation and leadership student Bryn Parent. “It allowed me to develop project management skills. These skills will help me be successful in my future university career.”

The tournament’s final came down to Comber Centennial against Mount Carmel Blytheswood. Comber won the championship, best-of-three contest, earning a title pennant for its school and UMEI t-shirts for each member of the team. The Mustangs earned a place in the final after coming back from a 1-0 set deficit to Wheatley in the best-of-three semifinals.

Both last spring’s badminton tournament and this month’s volleyball tournament were free of charge to participating schools. Bults explained that the events are in part organized as a way to bring as many future high school students through the UMEI doors as possible, offering them a chance to get a first-hand look at the school’s facilities. Future tournaments may include entry fees as a means of offsetting the costs involved with similar, upcoming events.

The Gore Hill Public School Gators started the tournament’s round robin portion against Comber Centennial, who went on to win the event.

The Mount Carmel Blytheswood Sharks started the round robin portion of the tournament with 25-13 and 25-21 losses to Jack Miner Public School of Kingsville.

The Whealtey Area Public School Warriors started the round robin portion of the tournament against the East Mersea Mustangs.

FLYERS TAME VIPERS

BY BRYAN JESSOP

The old adage that a good offense is the best defense proved true for the Leamington Flyers in last week’s home ice tilt against the LaSalle Vipers

Leamington outshot its guests 46-18 on its way to a 4-1 win against its cross-county rivals, avenging an Oct. 15 loss that stands as its only defeat at Highbury Canco Arena so far this season. The Flyers were effective on special teams, allowing one goal on seven penalty kills and scoring twice on five of their own man-advantage opportunities. The home team stayed out of the box until precisely three minutes after it established a 3-0 lead early in the second period.

“I’m not saying the officiating wasn’t good tonight, but it’s always been a pet peeve of mine with how often the leading team gets the short end of the stick,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski.

ited with assists.

Several opportunities to make it 2-0 cropped up following the opening goal, with the puck missing its mark by scant inches on several Flyer attacks. Mitchell Amante found the back of the Vipers’ net during his team’s first power play chance, sending a waist-high backhander into the mesh from inside the face-off circle to the

Grineau unleashed an ice-level slap shot that skidded past Billing and into the right corner of his net. Guilbeault and Luke Sanko drew assists.

LaSalle solved Tyler Wall for the first and only time with a power play of its own when Liam MacDougall moved in from the point and let go of a wrist shot that found the top left corner.

All three minor penalties called in the third put the Vipers at a five-on-four advantage, although Wall consistently made key saves to keep the guests at arm’s length on the scoreboard.

“Wall was outstanding tonight,” explained Piroski, who noted that a number of Universities have expressed an interest in recruiting the rookie netminder. “He made some big saves for us.”

The first period featured a steady barrage of shots by Flyers forwards, who tested LaSalle goalkeeper Eli Billing frequently with shots from a variety of angles and distances. Cale Phibbs opened the score for Leamington, swatting a loose, bouncing puck from directly in front of the visitors’ net past Billing at just above the ice’s surface. Scott Florence and Mark Gangnon were cred-

right of the net. Zach Guilbeault and Luke Sanko set up the tally. At the first buzzer, the Flyers had outshot LaSalle 22-5.

Leamington’s offensive dominance was watered down in the second frame by a steady string of minor penalties, but not before it took advantage of a double minor for high sticking called against the Vipers. Winding up from the point, J.P.

The third period’s only marker came shortly after LaSalle’s coaches pulled Billing for the sixth skater. Scott Emerson released a shot a few steps after crossing the red line, finding the bottom right corner of the Vipers’ net to finish the scoring in an unassisted effort.

“It’s great to earn the two points to stay ahead, especially against our county rivals,” explained Guilbeault, who’s two-

point performance was a key factor in the win. “We didn’t let them take many shots and we out battled them. We never like to lose at home, so it was good to get back at them.”

“I thought we played well tonight,” Piroski noted. “I’d like to see more pucks go in the other team’s net, but when you’re creating that many good chances, you must be doing something right.”

The game was preceded by an on-ice presentation from representatives of the Sun County AAA Panthers. Executive members Danny Babic, Andrew Doran and Shannah Dalpe presented the 2014-15 Mickey Renaud Memorial Award for determination, dedication and leadership to Flyers rookie Mitch Crevatin. The Belle River resident and defenseman played last season with the Panthers’ minor midget team.

Trouble in Chatham continued for the Flyers

on Sunday, Nov. 22 with a 6-3 loss to the Maroons. For more details on the game and the Tuesday, Nov. 24 match in Sarnia against the Legionnaires, see the Wednesday, Dec. 2 edition of The Southpoint Sun.

Rest of the West

On Wednesday, Nov. 18, the LaSalle Vipers defeated the St. Marys Lincolns in a 5-2 final while the Strathroy Rockets handed a 4-0 loss to the London Nationals. The Chatham Maroons defeated the Lambton Shores Predators 5-2 on Thursday as the St. Thomas Stars won 3-1 against Strathroy and London lost 4-2 versus the Sarnia Legionnaires. On Friday, St. Thomas won 9-0 against St. Marys. Saturday games ended with a 3-1 Chatham win over Strathroy and a 7-4 St. Marys win over Lambton Shores.

UPCOMING HOME GAMES: Thu., Dec. 3 vs. London, 7:10 p.m. Thu., Dec, 10 vs. Lambton, 7:10 p.m.

UPCOMING AWAY GAMES: Fri., Dec. 11 vs. St. Marys, 7:30 p.m. Sun., Dec. 13 vs. Strathroy, 7:30 p.m.

Flyers veteran Mitchell Amante looks for a teammate to take a pass while being challenged by Connor Rosaasen during a Thursday, Nov. 19 game at Highbury Canco Arena. Amante scored once in his team’s 4-1 win. (Sun photo)

members Danny

Leamington’s Derek Elliott and Matthew Opblinger move in in an effort to take the puck away from the Vipers’ Liam MacDougall during the first period of a Thursday, Nov. 19 game at Highbury Canco Arena. (Sun photo)

From left to right, Danny Babic, Andrew Doran, Mitchell Crevatin and Shannah Dalpe reveal the Sun County AAA Panthers’ Mickey Renaud Memorial Award for determination, dedication and leadership. Crevatin was chosen as the 2014-15 recipient of the award. (Sun photo)

Wheatley Sharks fit to be tied in Monday night battle vs. Mooretown Flags

By Bryan Jessop

Like a computer with a vulnerable security system, the Wheatley Sharks were recently robbed by a ‘Hakr’.

The Sharks worked hard to generate several scoring chances in the second half of a Monday, Nov. 23 game against the Mooretown Flags, but ran into an unbeatable backup goalie in Nolan Hakr. The teams settled for a 3-3 tie — the second of the season for both sides —bringing the Sharks record to 9-11-2-1 for an even 20 points.

The first period was a back-and-fourth affair where the Flags started off with an upper hand backed by a strong forechecking game. Dawson Vautour started the scoring for Mooretown with a wrist shot from the point that eluded the glove of Sharks goalie Eric Morneau. Wheatley evened things up just under six minutes later during an odd-man rush. Nick Tavolieri-Essex charged toward the Flags’ net and dropped the puck off for Lucas Raffoul, who swept in and blasted it past netminder Brandon Johnson from point blank range. Kristian Filipovski drew the second assist. Mooretown took its lead back with just over six minutes on the clock as Matt Brandon sent a wrist shot into the top left corner from the right side of the net and past a screened Morneau.

The Sharks’ power play took over from there, turning a one-goal deficit into a one-goal lead over a period of 53 seconds. Tavolieri-Essex tied the game after sending a fivehole shot past Johnson with a Flags’ defenseman hot on his heels. Brett Bowman was credited with the only assist. Wheatley took the lead for the first time on another man advantage after Johnson lost sight of the puck as it came to a rest to the left of his net. Justin Pinsonneault slid in and blasted the disc into the open side of the goal for a 3-2 Sharks lead. Mitch Lantin assisted on the play.

I saw some good things out there. We got some shots on net, but just couldn’t finish. He (Hakr) stole a point tonight.”

Mooretown generated most of the offensive buzz in the second frame, narrowly failing to score on a handful of scoring chances in the opening minutes. Brandon potted his second of the night after about 12 minutes of play following a two-on-one break. Morneau made the initial save, but couldn’t grab the rebound before it was sent over the goal line to tie the match at three-all. Johnson was injured as a result of a collision in his crease about five minutes earlier and was replaced by Hakr between the pipes. Hakr and Morneau both proved unbeatable through the final 27 minutes of play to force the 3-3 draw. The Flags outshot their hosts 30-24 through regulation and played the last three minutes and 40 seconds of the third with a power play, but couldn’t steal a win. Wheatley spent the majority of overtime on the power play including more than a minute with a five-on-three, but also came up short in their efforts to claim two points. The Sharks fired nine shots on net in extra minutes compared to the Flags’ two for a 33-32 advantage over 67 minutes.

“Their back-up goalie beat us,” said Sharks head coach Ken Galerno. “He stood on his head. We played gutsy and

The Sharks’ woes against Blenheim continued the previous night, as the trip up Highway 3 ended with a 6-3 loss to the Blades. Zack Horvath and Wheatley’s Tavolieri-Essex traded goals in the first for a 1-1 draw before the Blades sent the next two past former teammate Adam Leboeuf courtesy of former Chatham Maroon Brayden Hopkins and Hunter Burk for a 3-1 Blenheim advantage after 20 minutes. Brett Bowman and Pinsonneault assisted on the Tavolieri-Essex tally, scored on a Wheatley power play.

Kristian Brockelbank brought the Sharks to within a goal on a setup by Andreas Gossmann and newcomer Connor Goodchild 62 seconds into the middle stanza. Hopkins replied with two more to give the hosts a 5-2 lead before Delaney MacDonald got one back for the Sharks with assists credited to Cole Butler and Brady Hillock.

Dustin Maines scored the only goal in the third, the Blades’ second on the man advantage. Blenheim finished with a marginal 29-27 shots on goal advantage while going two for five on the power play compared to the Sharks’ one for six.

Goodchild was signed earlier last week by the Sharks to address a list of injuries that continue to plague the team.

Goodchild was a release by the Lakeshore Canadiens earlier this season who more recently began skating with Wheatley.

Wheatley’s next home game will be Monday, Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m. against the Wallaceburg Lakers. The Sharks will be on the road Friday, Nov. 27 at 7:30 p.m. against the Dresden Kings.

Bantam B Stars capture Kitchener Lady Rangers Championship

The Southpoint Bantam B Stars participated in the 22nd annual Kitchener Lady Rangers hockey tournament this past weekend, Nov. 20-22.

On Friday, the Stars were able to finish the day undefeated, tying both the Sarnia Jr. Lady Sting and the Kincardine Kinucks. Scoring for the Stars were Taylor Taouil, assisted by Chloe Mastronardi, and Darigan Chambers, assisted by Sarah O’Brien.

The Stars were back in action on Saturday morning at 7:00 a.m. to the delight of the parents. The players, however, were ready to go as they cruised to a 4-0 win over Markham. Scoring for the Stars were Mackenzie Wilson (Tara Rahm), Darigan Chambers (Sarah O’Brien and Paige Stomp), Abbey Resendes (unassisted) and Taylor Taouil (unassisted).

On Saturday afternoon the Stars were in a must-win situation facing the Orillia Hawks. Once again the Stars were ready for the challenge, scoring 4 unanswered goals to secure a spot in the finals. Goal scorers were Logan Bonner (Chloe Mastronardi and Kira Babkirk), Paige Stomp (Laura Germani and Tara Wright), Darigan Chambers (Paige Stomp) and Taylor Taouil (River Tremblay).

In the championship game the Stars faced the Sarnia Jr. Lady Sting once again. The Stars played a solid game but could not penetrate the Sting defense. The game ended in a 0-0 score after regulation time, and it was was off to overtime. The Stars wasted no time scoring on the first rush. After a blue line pass from Kylie Murracas, Montana Wilkins rushed the net and scored the winning goal that sent the Stars into celebration mode.

As usual, Claire Beaudoin and Cassidy De Groote provided outstanding goaltending for the Stars all weekend, allowing only two goals in 5 games. Way to go Stars!

Southpoint Bantam B Stars won the Kitchener Lady Rangers championship this past weekend, November 20-22 in Kitchener. Southpoint faced the Sarnia Jr. Lady Sting in the final and defeated them in overtime 1-0. Team members, front left to right: Coach Chris Rahm, River Tremblay, Laura Germani, Kira Babkirk, Mackenzie Wilson, Paige Stomp, Sarah O’Brien. In back: Coach Noelle Resendes, coach John Murracas, Abbey Resendes, Tara Wright, Tara Rahm, Logan Bonner, Chloe Mastronardi, Darigan Chambers, Montana Wilkins, Taylor Taouil, coach Jeff Chambers, Kylie Murracas, Cassidy De Groote, coach Steve Wilson. Absent from photo: Claire Beaudoin. (Submitted photo)

Delaney MacDonald of the Sharks attempts a wraparound against Flags goalie Nolan Hakr during a Monday, Nov. 23 game at Wheatley Area Arena. The teams settled for a 3-3 draw (SUN Photo)

Weil’s settles for a tie

Southpoint Weil’s Food Processing Atoms played Harrow Silver in Harrow on Saturday.

Weil’s started out strong as Alessia West won the face off and drilled her way to the net for the first shot on Harrow’s net. They played hard but Harrow snuck in a couple of times to take an early lead in the first period as they were up 2-0.

The second period went scoreless with many scoring chances for Abel Teichroeb, Cian Tiessen, Josh Tiessen, Logan Jardim and Gavin Garcia.

As soon as the third period started, Alessia West took a nice pass from Emma Weil to put Weil’s on the board. Just 30 seconds later, Cian Tiessen weaved his way through to score an unassisted goal for Weil’s, tying up the game. Weil’s kept the pressure strong and managed to keep the puck in Harrow’s zone but they just couldn’t get it in the net. Harrow had two more breakaway opportunities but Southpoint’s Joseph Gruber stood on his head and shut them down.

Both teams played strong until the end of the game. It was a tough battle resulting in a 2-2 tie score.

County Bridge Results

Leamington Half Century Centre, Nov. 16: North/South - 1st Vi Major and Pauline Mikolash, 2nd Marie Ellwood and Dorothy McGregor, 3rd Shirley Plant and Jeanne Manners. East/West - 1st Al Morrison and Derek Parry, 2nd Jim Perkes and Roger Cote, 3rd Roy Trowell and Ron Martin. Bridge games are played each Monday at 12:45 p.m. Members and new members are welcome.

Kingsville Bridge Club, Nov. 18: 1st Henry Hildebrandt and Bob Lee, 2nd Bill Chaplin and Chris Brennan, 3rd Ron Martin and Derek Parry, 4th Pauline Mikolash and Jeanne Manners. Bridge is every Wednesday at the Lions Hall in Kingsville, 7 p.m.

Golden Years mini golf

Thirty-nine Golden Years golfers dropped 65 aces on Nov. 19.

Leading the pack with 5 was Bill Ward, followed closely by Eva Kah with 4. Three found the bottom of the cup for Herb Ascott, Ethel Ferguson, Betty McManus, Andy Orsini, Bill Taylor, Ernie Vandenberg and Gerrit Vriesen. Sinking 2 each were Mary Binder, Wanda Hayes, Murray Hartford, Lloyd Honey, Frank Lasi, Bill Mayville, Bob McWilliam, Marilyn Speed, Al Stockwell, Art Sweet, Rose Taylor and Doug Vickery. Chipping in with 1 each were Caroline Ascott, Mike Binder, Dorothy Cascadden, Murray Cascadden, Pete Daudlin, Cathy Dewhurst, Tom Dewhurst, Lois Hudvagner, Marie Lasi, Colleen Pearse and Elaine Hatt.

Low scores of 16 and 17 for 9 holes were both delivered by Bill Ward. Managing 18 each were Ernie Vandenberg, Marie Lasi, Mike Binder, Mary Binder, Bob McWilliam, Lloyd Honey, Betty McManus, Mary Ann Vickery, Bill Ward, Andy Orsini (2), Pete Daudlin, Art Sweet, Bill Taylor, Bill Mayville (2) and Eva Kah.

Bill Ward continued his strong play delivering two scores of 35 for 18 holes. Bill Mayville managed 36, and Ernie Vandenberg and Andy Orsini 37, while 38 was recorded by Marie Lasi, Mary Binder, Mike Binder, Andy Orsini, Herb Ascott and Eva Kah.

Thirty-six hole top scores went to Bill Ward with 70, Andy Orsini 75, and Herb Ascott, Eva Kay and Julia Kos 78.

First place was captured by Team 8 with 232 (Andy Orsini, Pete Daudlin, Herb Ascott). Second place with 240 went to Team 7 (Caroline Ascott, Mary Ann Vickery, Bill Ward). Third and final spot was nailed down by Team Queens (Bill Mayville, Eva Kah, Bill Taylor) with 241.

The league is saddened by the news that Gerry Wilkin-

Owning three classic cars from the Big Three

Atom Minors defeat Eagles in nail-biter

Southpoint Atom Minors Capitals beat the Tecumseh Eagles 4-3 in Leamington on Friday Nov. 13 in a nailbiting third period.

In the opening frame against the Eagles, Vito Alfano scored the first goal assisted by quick passes from Jak Thiessen and Carson Stomp before Alfano snapped it in.

Cam Arquette sprinted down the side, passing the Tecumseh defender before passing the puck to Carson Murracas, who buried it short side.

Outstanding goaltending by Aiden Brown kept the Eagles scoreless in the first period.

Alyia Price broke up the play, passed to Vito Alfano who again passed to Jak Thiessen and sniped it pass the Eagles goaltender.

Despite leading in the first period, the Eagles scored a goal in the second and two in the third to tie the game.

All eyes were on the Capitals to defend home ice. Alfano skated up the line with the puck and passed it to Thiessen, who shot TOP CHEESE for the game winner.

Stellar defending by Carter Murracas, Tiago Ribeiro, Aliya Price, Ben the Recker and Andrew Marchand. Impressive hustle and great passing by Kyle MacMillan, Tristan Pillon and Nash Poisson, Owen Matthews. Jack Thomas’ team spirit helped keep Brown quick on his toes and helped the Capitals win their game against the Eagles.

son, a founding and longtime member of the league, passed away. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Play continues at 9:30 a.m. every Thursday at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens.

Since he retired from the H.J. Heinz Company in Leamington, Shannon Dresser has attended over 140 car shows in southwestern Ontario and Michigan and of course the annual Woodward Dream Cruise.

The fun began in 2008 when he purchased a red and fully restored 1968 Mustang convertible with a 302 V8, 4-barrel carb, dual exhausts, and automatic on the floor. In 2010, Miss Comber at the Comber Fair picked Shannon’s Mustang as her favourite and presented him with a trophy.

In 2012, he returned to the Comber Fair, this time with his recently purchased Sublime Green 1973 Dodge Challenger with a 340 V8, 4-barrel carb, dual exhausts, and automatic on the floor. Miss Comber for 2012 picked Shannon’s car as her favourite. Another trophy!

Later that same summer, Miss Leamington at the 2012 Tomato Festival picked Shannon’s Challenger as the Best Car from the ’70s.

With the ’68 Mustang and ’73 Challenger parked side by side in Shannon’s garage, he could see something was missing. He had a collector car from Ford and one from Chrysler but nothing from GM. On November 1, 2014, Shannon purchased a white 1986 Camaro Z/28 with a 305 V8, 4-barrel carb, dual exhausts, and automatic on the floor.

In 2015, Shannon drove his Challenger to a car show in Marine City, Michigan, where Miss Richmond Court pre-

sented him with a plaque featuring a picture of a Chrysler in the same colour as Shannon’s car – Sublime Green! In June of that same year, Shannon and Cathy attended Steve Plunkett’s Automotive Extravaganza near London, where they had their pictures taken with the Dukes of Hazzard.

On Sunday, September 26, Shannon left the Challenger at home and drove his Mustang to an All-Ford Car Show in Thamesford. Their friend Basil from Strathroy was there with his ’64 Gaxalie convertible, which picked up two awards. And although Shannon does not yet own a Galaxie, he is a member of the Galaxie Club of Ontario.

On June 11, 2015, the Activation Committee at the Sun Parlor Home for Senior Citizens in Leamington decided to hold a classic car show on their front lawn for the viewing pleasure of their residents. Shannon often volunteers there by pushing wheelchair residents to Bingo or birthday parties. When he was asked if he would bring a car to the show, he said: “I’ll bring all three!” A total of 47 classic vehicles showed up that day, and plans are already underway for another show next year.

Shannon and Cathy with his three cars at the Sun Parlor Home in Leamington last June.

SOUTHPOINT SUN

ERIE APARTMENTS

137 Erie St. South 2 bedroom units available. 2nd & 3rd floor. 13th month free. Available immediately. Call Bob at 226-936-1676

PLUMBROOK MANOR APARTMENTS

Upscale and Affordable in Leamington’s ONLY waterfront rental apartment building overlooking Leamington Marina and Park and minutes from the beach. Amenities include:

• library and social rooms

• new Smart Card “no coin” laundry

• beautiful lobby

• underground parking

• outdoor balconies

• FREE utilities and window coverings

• Fully secured and 24-7 onsite management. Ask us about our limited time “New Tenant” incentives. www.ska-apartmentrentals.com Call Mike or Kevin 519-326-8819

Secured Building Fridge & Stove Utilities included For viewing please call 519-322-1924 tf

J J STITCHING - SEWING,

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

PLUMBING SERVICE

• Repairs

• Installations

• Drain Cleaning

• Excellent Rates

• 37 Years Experience Ed Higginbottom 519-329-1779 eh48@hotmail.ca

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

Call 519-971-0044. no25

KINGSVILLE LEGION BRANCH 188 Friday Night Dinners 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Weekly Specials $12 (Ribs or Perch). Other weekly menu items $10. Next brunch Sunday, December 13, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month 8:00 p.m. 519733-5162 (office) or 519733-9081 (bar). oc29-tf

ESTATE SALE

TAGGED ESTATE SALE -

(Richard Wachter).

Complete garage with hundreds of power & hand tools (old and new); 3 quality saddles and horse tack; collectible antique items; heaters; and much, much more! Complete household with a large selection of glassware, dishes and many other household items; men's clothing; antique furniture, kerosene lamps, old cameras, coffee grinders and many more collectibles. Featured item: large oak rolltop desk, handmade by Mennonites, in excellent shape. Saturday & Sunday, November 28 & 29 at 1116 Heritage Drive, Kingsville. 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Cash sales only - no early birds. For info call Emily at 226946-3025 (leave message). no25 ATTENTION SENIORSAFFORDABLEand reliable home repairs, improvements and maintenance. Some work may qualify for the Ontario Tax Credit. Call Joe, 519-324-2542. no4-25

SOUTHPOINT SUN

REGIONAL MANAGER – 0621

Kiara Footwear Ltd. and Bridal Shoes located in Leamington, Ontario is looking for a permanent full time Regional Manager for their Retail Operations located in Windsor and Brampton.

Successful Candidate will be responsible for the following:

• Plan, direct and evaluate the operations of the business;

• Hire and train staff;

• Develop and implement marketing strategies;

• Determine merchandise and services to be sold;

• Study market research and trends to assist with expansion; and

• Develop business plan and assist with expansion.

Applicant must have pervious management experience. Minimum 3 years of experience is required.

Successful candidate will be remunerated an hourly wage of $21.75 per hour plus benefits.

Please send resumes to: jobs@bridaonline.com

Do you have a B or E Class License?

Do you have a G Class driving license and are looking for regular part time employment?

We are currently accepting applications for school bus drivers and pleased to offer our employees:

• Competitive wages

• A family friendly environment where you are appreciated and treated with respect

• 72 and 20 Passenger local routes are available

• Free training available

At Switzer-Carty, we're more than a school bus company. We're a people company with a mission to provide the safest and most reliable transportation services.

If you are interested in joining our team please apply on line at www.Switzer-Carty.com or call us at 519-326-2607 x 3.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

JOB OPPORTUNITY

markgcontracting@bellnet.ca

RESIDENT APARTMENT MANAGER

•

We are a vegetable greenhouse that focuses on high quality healthy greenhouse products and looking for Career Oriented Line Lead for one of our Specialty Packing Line.

Responsibilities:

• Progressively lead a packing line of 10 – 15 employees

• Ensure customer specifications are being followed and adhered to

• Working with scheduler to coordinate the personnel in order to meet production goals

• Report all machine issues to Operations Manager and Maintenance

• Report personnel issues to Human Resources

• Train new employees as necessary

• Maintain accurate records

• Complete all relevant required documentation in an accurate and timely manner, including recording all packaging completed and the packaging used and/or destroyed

• Maintain a neat and organized work area

• Follow all policies, practices and procedures as it relates to Human Resources, Health and Safety and Food Safety

Qualifications:

• Self- motivation and attention to detail

• Flexibility with working hours (Days Only including Saturdays)

• Independent transportation

• Excellent multi-tasking skills under pressure

• Ability to lift boxes up to 20 lbs.

• Work in cold and hot environments

• High School diploma or equivalent experience

• Basic math aptitude

• Ability to communicate effectively at all levels

If you possess these attributes, please forward your resume to: hr@orangelinefarms.com Only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

under pressure and manual dexterity

• Ability to lift up 20 lb boxes

• Ability to work as a team or independently

• Must be able to work in cold and hot environment

• Requires standing, and walking on a regular basis for prolonged periods

• Visual and audio sensory are needed

If you possess these attributes, please forward your

SOUTHPOINT SUN

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Are you having a hard time to find a job…or simply…you have not got the right one yet. If so, this is your opportunity to know more about us.

Maryver Company General Contractors is a well known employment agency that has been in business for over 10 years and serving Windsor-Essex county and surrounding areas, and currently are recruiting achievement and motivated individuals to join our team, to set and surpass realistic goals. Are you a self-starter person who wants to put into practice your ability to work in different fields as follows:

Greenhouse Structure and Construction, Janitorial Services, Welding, Forklift Driver’s License, Carpenter, Framing, Concrete, Siding, Roofing, Painting, Home Renovation, Mechanic, Drywall, Electrician, Ceramics, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, Landscaping, Snow Removal, Waiters, Waitress, Bartenders, Hairdressers, Fish Cutting, Construction Workers (must have certified safety shoes and helmet), Drivers (must have a valid driver’s license, have their own vehicle and able to transport others), Greenhouse Labour (Planting, Harvest, Cutting, Packing, Cleaning, Washing, Stacking, etc), General Labour.

Therefore if you are interested in any of these jobs please bring your resume in, or if your specialization is not listed above, simply let us know and we will make every effort to find you one. For more information please contact our team members:

Yheizzy Ordoñez – Office Manager 519-563-9588

Elizabeth Hernandez – Chief Marketing Officer: 519-818-9444

Hoping to assist you in a professional and dignified manner with equal opportunities. Marlon Ordoñez, General Manager

Maryver Company General Contractors

P.D. We can also prepare your income tax return. For more information please call us at 519-326-1665 or text msg at 519-562-3410 and ask for Antonio.

Está usted teniendo problema para encontrar un trabajo…. O simplenta…aun no ha consguido el más adecuado. De ser asi, esta es su oportunidad de conocer más acera de nosotros.

Maryver Company General Contractors es una agencia de empleo bien conocida y que ha estado operando por más de 10 años sirviendo en Windsor-Essex county y areas alrededores, actulmente estamos recluntando individuos con moticación y logro unirse a neustro quipo de trabajo para establecer y seperar metas realisticas.

Es usted una persona emprededora, con ganas de poner en práctica su habilidad para trabajar en diferentes campos laborales como a continuación se mencionan: Estructuración y construción de invernaderos, Servicios de Impieza, Soldadura, Conductores con licencia para montacargas, Carpintería, Enmacado, Albañileria, Techado, Pintura, Renovación de viviendas, Mecánico, Pared de yesio, Electricista, Alfeareriá, Plomería, Calefación, y Refrigeración, Jardinería, Remoción de neivee, Mesonero(a), Concinero(a), Camarero(a), Pelequería, Cortadores de pescado, Trabaladores de construccíon (denen de tener zapatos de seguridad y casco certificados), Conductores (Deben tener licencia valída para conducir y tener vehículo propio y estar en condicíon de transportar a otros), Trabajo de Invernadero (Plantar, Cosechar, Cortar, Empacar, Limpiar, Lavar, Almacenar etc), Trabajos en general.

Por lo tanto, si usted está interesado en algunos de estros trabajos por favor traiga su curriculum vítae, o sis u especializacíon no se encuneta enumerada, simplemente háganos saber y haremos todo el esfuerzo de conseguirle uno.

Para mayor información por favor contacte a nuestros miembros de equipo: Yheizzi Ordonéz – Gerente de Oficina- 519-563-9588

Elizabeth Hernandez – Directora de Comercialización: 519-818-9444.

Esperando poder asistirles de una manera professional y digna con igualdad de oportunidades.

Marlon Ordonéz

Gerente General

Marver Company General Contractors

P.D. Tambien podemos preparer su Income Tax (Déclaración de Impeustos Sobre la Renta). Para mayor información llame al 519-326-1665 o a través de mansajería de texto al 519-562-3410 ó pregunte por Antonio.

IZA DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING is hiring Press Operators, Welders and Assemblers. Send resumes to ccocks@izadm.com or apply within at 1960 Road 3 East, Ruthven. no25-de16

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

MARVELLA WINGER, (also known as Kathleen Marville Winger), late of the Municipality of Leamington, in the County of Essex, who died on or about the 3rd day of September, 2015, must be filed with the undersigned personal representative on or before the 29 th day of December, 2015. Thereafter the undersigned will distribute the assets of the estate having regard only to the claims then filed.

Dated: November 20th, 2015.Matthew M. Caron PEARSALL, MARSHALL, HALLIWILL & SEATON LLP. Barristers and Solicitors 22 Queens Avenue Leamington, Ontario N8H 3G8