Injured angler heads to World Walleye Championship
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Lakeshore Firefighters Honored for Community Service
By Matt Weingarden Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
Members of the Lakeshore Fire Department were honoured recently during an appreciation dinner and reception at the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre.
The yearly event celebrated the firefighters' commitment to the health and safety of the municipality and its residents.
Long serving members were presented with the Canadian Volunteer Firefighter Service Association's Municipal Long Service Award, which recognizes firefighters with 30 or more years of service.
Firefighters receive the Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal, which is a federal recognition that honors firefighters across Canadian who have completed 20 years of service. At 25 years firefighters receive the Fire Services Long Service Medal presented by the province. Those who reach the milestone of serving 30 years have been recognized with the Canadian Volunteer Fire Fighters medal which is a municipal acknowledgement across Canada to recognize volunteer and paid-on-call volunteer firefighters who provided 30 or more years of dedicated service to their communities.
Lakeshore Fire chief Jason Suchiu
says a good firefighter has dedication and a commitment to learning.
“Today's firefighters are faced with many situations and various different hazards. Our firefighters are great firefighters because they are committed to their training and always being ready to help the community whenever they are called upon,” he said.
He believes that its important to recognize the commitment of Lakeshore firefighters due to the significant sacrifices volunteer firefighters make in serving the community. Volunteer firefighters have full time jobs in addition to being firefighters and put the needs of those in the community first when emergencies arise, often at the expense of giving up time with family and friends.
"The role of a firefighter is not just a job, it's a calling, and many people will never know the extent of the commitment made by these individuals," said Suchiu. "I'd also like to recognize the families of our firefighters, who sacrifice much to support them in their work."
Suchiu added that the 85 firefighters who currently serve the Municipality of Lakeshore have a combined 1,456 years of service.
With a long list of members with 30 years plus, Suchiu believes it’s a direct reflection of their commitment FIREFIGHTER, PAGE 06
John Kopcok, 50, competed on the National Walleye Tour Championship in Oscoda Michigan on Sept. 4-6, despite dealing with a gruesome injury he sustained at another tournament in South Dakota. – National Walleye Tour Championship (Story on Page 04)
Lakeshore Canadiens have another powerhouse team in 2024-2025 PJHL season
By John Humphrey
Provincial
Junior Hockey League (PJHL)
teams looking for the defending Schmalz Cup champion Lakeshore Canadiens to be a soft touch or less talented group in the 20242025 season are in for a big disappointment as the defending Schmalz Cup champs are as talented and as experienced as ever.
"We have 15 players back that won the Schmalz Cup this past spring and eight players who have won two Schmalz Cups," said Canadiens General manager Mark Seguin. "Our starting goaltender, Boe Piroski, is back and the success of our team going forward starts with him.”
"We have seven very talented defencemen, including five returnees, and we made a trade to pick up Kyle Kelly, who has been around the
league with Wheatley for a few seasons," he added. "So we are very talented on the back end."
And while there is a new head coach at the helm of the Canadiens this season, the transition will be seamless, said Seguin.
Following the departure of former head coach, Anthony Iaquinta, to the LaSalle Vipers of the Junior B Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL) in late summer, Seguin conducted a quick but thorough search for a new head boss and assistants after Milan Dobric and Jack Bowler also moved to the Vipers.
"Brent Walker is our new head coach and JJ Percy, who played with us for four seasons and who had been coaching the U18 team in Belle River, will be our associate head coach," Seguin proudly announced. "Colin Moore is
our new assistant coach too.
"It's a great staff and they are young, ambitious and skilled and we are very happy to have them on board with us," he continued. "Our players are also excited."
Seguin then identified his long-tested game plan for the ongoing success of the Lakeshore Canadiens.
"We start with strong goaltending and a strong group on the blueline and we do have a lot of talent up the middle at forward this situation like we usually do," he claimed. "We will be able to roll four lines and rotate our defencemen and we are going to wear a lot of teams down.
"With the experience and ability that we have up and down our roster we will be able to play any type of game you want to," he
continued, matter-of-factly. If you want to skate, we'll be able to skate with you and if you want to play a high scoring up and down game or a close-checking and tight defensive game we will be able to do that too.
"We will be able to play any type of game that you want to," Seguin offered. "We will be able to adapt quickly to however you want to play."
The Canadiens opened their 2024-2025 PJHL with a 5-2 win over the Amherstburg Admirals following a pre-game ceremony that saw three more championship banners raised to the rafters of the Atlas Tube Centre that also included championship rings being handed out.
For more information on the perennial powerhouse team from Lakeshore, visit www. lakeshorecanadiens.com
Byrne Family's Heartfelt Thanks for Support and Kindness in Honoring Paddy Byrne
Members of the 2023-2024 Schmalz Cup champion Lakeshore Canadiens were on hand for the opening puck drop for the 2024-2025 season on Sept. 13/2024. – Photo by Matt Weingarden
Members of the 2023-2024 Schmalz Cup champion Lakeshore Canadiens show off their rings. – Photo by Lakeshore Canadiens
Editorial & Opinion
Editorial
Inflation Hits Bank of Canada's Target: A Milestone, But Challenges Remain
As inflation finally aligns with the Bank of Canada's target, Canadians can breathe a sigh of relief. For the past few years, rising prices have burdened households and businesses alike, driving up the cost of living and tightening wallets. Now, with inflation reaching the bank’s 2% target, there is hope that the worst is behind us, but this milestone presents an opportunity for reflection and cautious optimism.
This drop in inflation signals that the central bank’s aggressive interest rate hikes and monetary policies may have worked as intended. However, it’s important not to view this as the end of the struggle. Even at the target rate, many families continue to feel the sting of elevated prices for essential goods like groceries, housing, and energy. Recovery is a slow process, and while inflation may be under control, the economic landscape remains uncertain.
Businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises,
have borne the brunt of inflationary pressures and will need continued support to stabilize in this new environment. Meanwhile, consumers may find relief in lower prices over time, but wage growth and employment stability must also keep pace.
The Bank of Canada must now navigate a delicate balance. While inflation has fallen to its target, raising interest rates too high or too quickly could stall economic growth, while lowering them too fast could re-ignite inflation. Canadians should temper their expectations as the central bank and government move cautiously in the months ahead.
As inflation stabilizes, we must seize this moment to push for sustainable economic growth, ensuring that this relief is felt across all sectors and that future shocks are met with greater resilience. Today’s milestone should be celebrated, but the work of securing a prosperous, balanced economy for all Canadians continues.
Wilder Side of the Law Single Vehicle or at-fault Accident? Don’t Assume You’re Not Covered
By Steven Wilder
A friend of mine in Northern Ontario was driving home the other day. It was a beautiful late summer day and starting to get dark, as it was around 8pm. They had their headlights on, seatbelt fastened, radio at a decent level, were not using their cell phone, were completely sober, and were entirely focussed on the drive home. Despite all of this, nothing prevented the moose from running onto the road and stopping directly in front of their vehicle.
My friend woke up in the ambulance some time later. They were reassured by the paramedic that they were en route to the hospital and that they would take good care of him. Fortunately, the paramedic was 100% correct and my friend received excellent care. They spent a few nights in the hospital and were sent home to complete their recovery.
I spoke to him the day after he was released from the hospital and he told me about how careful he had been, but the moose just came out of nowhere and he had no time to react. Naturally, he was concerned about not being able to work, worried about paying his bills,
Agri Terms 1
By Kim Cooper
For the next few articles, I thought we would go over some general definitions as it relates to agriculture. Sometimes in whatever sector we work in, there are words used that we assume other people know what they mean. Let’s look at some agriculture words and phrases and their meanings. Thanks to Farm and Food Care Ontario (farmfoodcareon.org) for great resources on agriculture.
Acre – One acre equals 43,560 square feet or 0.405 hectares.
Artificial Insemination – The use of frozen semen from selected sires to breed animals. It allows farmers to use top genetics to improve each generation of new animals.
Avian Influenza (AI or Bird Flu) – A virus that infects wild birds and domestic poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese). Some forms of the flu in birds are worse than others.
Biological Control – Controlling plants, diseases, and animal pests using natural enemies; or inhibiting the reproduction of pests by methods that result in the laying of infertile eggs, etc.
Biological Diversity – Richness and abundance of species, and variety of natural communities. Both the
number of species and the number of individuals within each species are important in considering the extent of biological diversity in an area. Also referred to as biodiversity.
Biosecurity – A program to protect barns, animals and poultry from outside dirt and germs. Visitors are asked to wear clean clothes, wash their boots and even sometimes have a shower to ensure they don’t bring any germs into the facility.
Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) – Commonly known as “mad cow disease,” BSE is a slowly progressive, incurable disease affecting the central nervous system of cattle, first diagnosed in Britain in 1986. Consumption by cattle of BSEcontaminated ruminant proteins in animal feed has been cited as one possible means of transmission.
Broiler Chicken – A meat chicken raised to the weight of 2.65 kg or under.
Buffer strip – Helps prevent water contamination by filtering out soil, fertilizers and manure before they enter a stream.
Buffer Zone – This is the naturalized area that farmers often leave next to a body of water such as a stream or pond. Buffer zones help to prevent water contamination by filtering out soil, fertilizers, and manure and other nutrients before they enter a stream.
They also can reduce soil erosion and promote biodiversity by providing shelter and food for a wide variety of animals, birds and fish.
Candling – A process where the egg is passed over a strong light to make the interior of the egg visible. This allows the grader to see the condition of the shell, the size of the air cell and whether the yolk is well-centered.
Chick – The term for a baby chicken (male or female) until it is about three weeks of age.
Colostrum – The first milk that any animal (including humans) produce after they give birth. This milk helps to pass along the mother’s immunity to disease to her offspring.
Conservation or no tillage farming – In conservation tillage, crops are grown with minimal or no cultivation of the soil. Any organic matter remaining from a previous year´s crop is left on the soil, building up its organic matter. In addition, populations of beneficial insects are maintained, soil and nutrients are less likely to be lost from the field and less time, labour and fuel are required to prepare the field for planting, thus reducing our greenhouse gas emissions.
Kim Cooper was involved in the agribusiness sector for over 40 years. He can be reached at: kim.e.cooper@gmail.com
The Rise in Auto Theft: "Project Ninja" and the Dire Consequences
By Sana Abbas
and in need of medical treatment. I reassured him that accidents happen and not to blame himself, as he seemingly did nothing wrong.
Then the inevitable question came: “Nothing you can do to help, right Steve”?
In Ontario, we have no-fault insurance. This means that no matter how the accident occurs or who is at-fault, if you have a valid insurance policy, your own insurance company will usually cover you for any treatment that you need. In addition, there are weekly benefits for people who are unable to return to work, continue with their normal life, or care for their children.
I explained this to my friend, who was very surprised and quite relieved. In his mind, he was at-fault and assumed he was not entitled to anything. Fortunately, the law says otherwise.
At this time of the year, animals are active and on the move. Likewise, weather conditions can change quickly, not just from day to day, but from morning to afternoon, to night. Many single vehicle accidents occur under conditions like this and people just assume that they don’t have any coverage.
In reality, the old adage about not assuming things proves true once again, as people are definitely covered in these situations and they simply need to ask.
Publisher: Mohsin Abbas, Editor: Jiesu Luo, Reporters: Devan Mighton, John Humphrey, Matt Weingarden, Laura Steiner, Fernando Arce, Art Editor: Imran Adnan Qureshi
Auto theft is on the rise, and recent investigations have uncovered alarming links between stolen vehicles and larger criminal operations. In a three-month probe dubbed "Project Ninja," Halton Regional Police exposed an organized crime group involved in car thefts across Quebec and the Greater Toronto Area. The group, mostly composed of Algerian nationals, used rental properties to facilitate their operations and transport stolen cars. Arrests have been made, but the case underscores a troubling reality: auto theft is funding far-reaching criminal activities that threaten the safety and well-being of communities across Canada.
This case represents more than just a headline, it’s an eye opener. For the people of my generation, and the many generations to come, these crimes have a deeper impact on our lives. It’s not just about cars being taken; it’s about the rippling aftermath of distrust, fear and uncertainty moving forward. As we look at how this issue influences us now. We should consider how this situation will shape our future by examining its long-term consequences.
Seeing the profiles of those arrested in the auto theft case was a deeply unsettling experience for me. Their youth, so close in age to mine, made their involvement in these crimes even more disturbing.
When it comes to having a something personal taken, whether it belongs to me, you, a friend, a family
on Our Generation
member, anyone you know, the feeling doesn’t fit, it makes us uneasy.
In this situation, vehicles that are being taken by these individuals means surveillance and scrutiny rises, trust is being broken, stress is starting to heighten, economic strains are created, and the cycle of fear is passed on to our generation. Being under surveillance refers to being monitored and examined by society much more than usual glances.
Whether it’s through eyes of the police or through wandering eyes of the general public, it will intrude on our own independence and freedom.
It puts my generation into constantly feeling watched, which is an invasion to our privacy especially when we know our own values and morals that prevent us from being anything apart from innocent.
Trust is an aspect in our life that carries communities, but its capable of deteriorating faster now. I’d like to think, many young people of today have grown to be more self-aware, with this situation, we become more wary of not just ourselves but everyone we interact with, who we see across the street, who we hear about, etc.
When cars are stolen, it directly affects the victim, but it also creates all kinds of mistrust between family, friends, neighbors. Fragmented trust leads to people being hesitant to simply communicate or depend on each other.
Heightened stress adds extra unnecessary feelings of being overwhelmed and anxiety that we experience as a
reaction to alarming situations. I, like many of my friends, and many people today, already balance academic and personal issues with our every day lives.
Having another burden over the security of our belongings, in this case, cars, can disrupt our state of minds. A construct many young people are familiar with is the concept of economical strain that students and just people in general face daily, from groceries to medical care, clothing to self-help, these matters are pricy enough as it is. With insurance, new technological security measures, and replacing stolen cars with new ones adds extended financial dread, adding another thing to worry about onto our plates.
With constant observation, broken trust, layers of stress, and deeper economic situations, this places considerable heavy burden on to young people and others.
Up to now, we have so many inner challenges in our adolescence and adulthood that we need to face, this extra amount of constantly addressing these issues intensify everything we have and everything we are. Despite all these things, I believe the future is bright for us, and we have the potential to overthrow these possibilities, the right and proper way.
Sana Abbas, a 2024 high school graduate, was born in Toronto and spent her teenage years in China. Driven by her passion for understanding human nature, she is pursuing criminology, believing it can lead to meaningful and lasting change.
James and William Kerr, Canadians In The American Civil War – Part 2
By Kirk Walstedt
In Part 1, we learned of the reasons why more than 50,000 Canadians enlisted to fight in the Civil War. James and William Kerr, who had immigrated from Scotland in 1852 and had settled in Maidstone Township, were two of the young men who enlisted in the Northern Union Army and fought in numerous engagements against the Confederacy. Their story continues.
Following the surprising defeat of the Union forces at the Battle of Bull Run it was clear the War would not be a short one. Volunteers’ term of service was therefore extended to three years or until the War ended.
On February 22, 1862, following six months of duty in Baltimore, the 6th Michigan Volunteer Infantry & Heavy Artillery was attached to General Butler's New Orleans Expedition which was an important part of the Union's “Anaconda Plan”. The Union wanted to isolate the Confederacy from its European markets by gaining control of the Mississippi River from Cairo Illinois to the Gulf of Mexico. The Confederacy didn't have the raw materials and industrial machinery that the Union had at its disposal to wage war. It therefore, had to count on a number of countries in Europe to supply it with armaments in the form of cannons, sidearms, muskets, rifles, powder and ammunition. Its abundance of cotton was important to the economy of Great Britain. Without this the Confederacy couldn’t sustain its economy. When the Union forces’ gunboats were able to secure the mouth of the Mississippi, General Benjamin Butler was ordered to concentrate 15,000 men on Ship's Island where the force was to prepare to
occupy New Orleans. New Orleans had a prewar population of 170,000 and was the South's largest port and greatest industrial center. The 1,000 men of the 6th Michigan were part of General Butler's force.
The steamboat journey down the Mississippi was without incident and was a welcome change from the grueling foot marches that the soldiers made from one engagement with the Confederacy to the next. Shortly after the troops arrived at Ship’s Island, the demoralized Confederate garrisons that stood between General Butler’s force and New Orleans surrendered. The Union forces occupied the City. The victory played a significant role in decreasing cotton
exports to Great Britain and other European countries.
Despite the fall of New Orleans with very few casualties, life was difficult for William and his comrades in arms. Soldiers were issued rations of food and although plentiful it was not often delivered to the frontline on a regular schedule. Troops would often go hungry for days at a time waiting for the provisions to arrive. The rations were usually corn, beans, vegetables and salted beef or pork. Mule meat was a substitute when rations were scarce. Bread consisted of Hardtack, a dried and very hard wheat cracker. Disease was often as bad or in some cases worse than the risks of being in battle. Even though food and water
was often plentiful, it was often contaminated due to poor storage. Worms and maggots were common in the food supplies. This coupled with deplorable sanitary conditions in the Army camps lead to dysentery. Lice, measles and even malaria were common, especially for the soldiers who were fighting in the hot and humid southern states. As a result many Regiments lost more men to disease than they did in battle. Of the approximately 1,000 men in William’s Regiment 84 were killed in battle and 498 died from disease.
Following the victory at New Orleans the Regiment remained in the Gulf Coast Region. In May 1863, it was sent to Port Hudson in Louisiana where a number
of battles took place during the successful siege of the Port. The Regiment continued to engage Confederate troops throughout the South playing a key role in a number of important battles.
According to the family history that I’ve been able to uncover, On April 20th, 1864, Private William Kerr was either granted furlough for an extended period of time or an Honourable Discharge. He returned home to his family in Maidstone Township. In 1891 William applied for a soldier’s pension from the U.S. government. He stated he was now suffering from a number of maladies in his later years that resulted from his service in the War. He was told that it was believed he had deserted on April 20th 1864 and was therefore not eligible for a pension. William vehemently denied this accusation. Although his application for a pension was not granted, I did locate a note dated June 10th, 1892 in the U.S. Civil War National Archives that a letter was sent to William stating the charge of desertion had been removed from his record.
Canadians In The Civil War by Claire Hoy, Blood & Daring by John Boyko and the Walstedt & Kerr Family Archives were valuable resources in the writing of this 3 Part Story.
In Part 3 I’ll tell the story of William’s younger brother James who enlisted in February 1864 and fought in a number of battles that ended with the Siege of Atlanta. Kirk is a 4th generation Lakeshore resident, born and raised on the family farm in the former Maidstone Township. He is an archeologist, historian, author, lawyer and deputy mayor of the Municipality of Lakeshore.
Injured angler heads to World Walleye Championship
By Evan Mathias
After a disappointing start to the month a local angler is looking to get healthy and bounce back in a big way heading into the World Walleye Championships at the end of September.
John Kopcok, 50, competed on the National Walleye Tour Championship in Oscoda Michigan on Sept. 4-6, despite dealing with a gruesome injury he sustained at another tournament in South Dakota.
“It didn’t go so well, I got injured at the last tournament in South Dakota. I slipped off one of the docks and had 99 staples put in my left leg, broke a vertebrae in my back and tore my shoulder rotator cuff and my triceps,” said Kopcok. “It wasn’t pleasing. Everything hurt.”
The Tecumseh native battled through injury and changing weather, all in an effort to still compete in the tournament.
“When I was there my friends and teammates were just pushing me onto the boat and I was just crawling up to my seat so I could drive,” explained Kopcok. “I made the championship but with the injury I could only do so much. With the waves, they’re always four or five feet on Lake Huron. So, it wasn’t a good
tournament. I didn’t do well at all!”
Being unable to compete at full health was devastating for Kopcok whose competitive nature takes over during tournament weeks.
“It was awful, I wasn’t sure if I was even going to be able to make it. No one was going to stop me, but you can only do so much, with one arm and working on one leg,” said Kopcok. “Every tournament I go to I want to finish first, who cares about second place? No one cares.”
A pro angler since 2012, Kopcok has hopes for his next tournament, hosted by Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s it takes places back in Michigan in Alpena Sept. 26-28 where he’ll return to battle the waves on Lake Huron. He’ll need to refocus in the weeks leading up to that Championship.
“Well, you’ve just got to press the reset button. Just go and figure it all out again,” said Kopcok. “You’ve just got to get mentally focused at the task that needs to be done and that task is to finish first. My friend told me that if you don’t put your mind in the right mind-set to finish first in every single tournament than why bother even going fishing.”
Following the World Walleye Championship, Kopcok shifts focus to one last bass tournament to
complete this fishing season. Each tournament has its challenges and each species of fish has its differences. Adapting to each scenario is key in tournament success
“You’ve got to have five or six difference spots of the fish that are moving. Some might be bigger than others, If we can’t catch them here, lets try that pile or this pile,” said
Kopcok “Are they biting on a jig or on a crank bait…bass will come up and hit anything usually. They’re shallower and are around rocks. Walleye is more of an open water fish, colder, deeper water.”
Ending the season on a high note comes down to one simple fact for Kopcok.
“I’ve got to catch the right fish.
I’ve got to find the right school and catch five of the biggest fish for three days straight,” said Kopcok. “I’ve got to change up my tactics, because that last tournament my tactics weren’t working, I didn’t have the right bait. I couldn’t feel it. This time I’ve studied more, I looked at what went wrong and I’m trying to turn it into a positive.”
Pictured are two original Union Soldiers' Civil War Canteens Photo #2: The wedding photo of William and Sarah (Hunter) Kerr. They were married in 1867. – Photos provided by Kirk Walstedt
John Kopcok, 50, competed on the National Walleye Tour Championship in Oscoda Michigan on Sept. 4-6, despite dealing with a gruesome injury he sustained at another tournament in South Dakota. – National Walleye Tour Championship
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Lakeshore Firefighter Honored for Community Service
FIREFIGHTER, FROM PAGE 01
to each other and the community they live in.
“As volunteer firefighters we rely on each other. Our long serving staff are mentors for those new to the service and demonstrate the dedication that is needed in these roles. I'm extremely proud of the dedication and service of all our staff,” he explained.
Suchiu adds that it’s also a night for the members to come together to share stories and provide opportunity for firefighters to socialize and bond with those that don't often get to work together because of the large geographical area covered.
The Lakeshore Fire Department operates five fire stations in communities throughout the municipality.
"Firefighters are there for us during our community's most challenging moments, and we are forever grateful,"
said Lakeshore mayor Tracey Bailey. "Each of them demonstrates an incredible spirit of community service above self. They show up day and night, ready to face whatever comes their way."
Lakeshore Fire invites residents to the upcoming Fire Prevention Week Open Houses, scheduled for Wednesday, October 9, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Several firefighters will be recognized for their long-standing service. Those with 30 or more years of service include Robert Friest, Mike Aubin, Doug Gagnier, Brent Cranston, Denis Comartin, Jason Demers, Justin Mullins, Joe Derikx, Mike Truskey, Cindy Wickens, Gerald Mailloux, and Steve Little. Firefighters with 35 or more years of service include Dan Sauve, Robert Luno, Brian Beausoleil, Patrick Robak, Wayne Morris, and Michael Deneweth.
Day Tours
Sep 21, 24 Frankenmuth with Lunch $117
Oct 5, 24 Frankenmuth with Lunch $117
Oct 19, 24 St Jacob's Market $135
Nov 16, 24
Frankenmuth with Lunch $117
Nov 26, 24 Cornwells Dinner Theatre, $175 The Wonderlettes
Nov 30, 24 Great Lakes Crossings Mall $79
Dec 14, 24 St. Jacobs Playhouse $235
A Christmas Carol
Extended Tours
Nov 1-4, 24 Nashville, TN
Nov 22-24, 24 Shop Till You Drop! Erie, PA $449 DBL
Nov 28-30, 24 Festival of Lights - Shaw Festival $799 DBL
Dec 7-12, 24 Quebec City at Christmas Time $1599 DBL
Dec 11-15, 24 New York City Christmas $1329 DBL
Feb 8-25, 25 Yellow Rose of Texas $4499 DBL
Jul 10-25, 25 Newfoundland, 27 Meals Incl. $7199 DBL
Lakeshore boasts six new outdoor pickleball courts at ATC
By Matt Weingarden
Pickleball is the real dill! The sport continues its rapid growth in Canada with more players, more associations and a new pro league.
In Lakeshore, Pickleball has seen a spike in popularity, which initiated a recent survey to garner feedback from local pickleballers. The result – six dedicated outdoor courts have been refurbished at the Atlas Tube Centre.
Earlier this month, the Lakeshore Pickleball Association held its FUN3 tournament at the ATC - that included around 30 participants.
Chris Moore, is a new member of the board with the Lakeshore Pickleball Association.
“We’re here today to engage in some exercise, reduce isolation, build friendships and meet those living in our area,” he said. “We want to thank the Municipality, council and Frank Janey for this beautiful new facility. It will allow us to offer even more tournaments like this – get more players out and get them involved.”
The Moore says that the Association was formed last Fall as the demand for courts began to increase.
“With the increase, we found we needed some form of organization to oversee administration and create a way to offer local tournaments.” said Moore. “Together with the Municipality we’re working toward offering clinics
Pet of the Month
and beginner lessons. We’re looking to grow the sport in Lakeshore.”
Most importantly, he says its important to make sure everyone feels included.
“It can be a little intimidating
coming out your first few times,” he added. “We are an association where we can invite participants to learn in a non-threatening, non-judgemental environment and provide the basic beginner equipment…like paddles
and balls…and do it safely.”
He shares that there is a lot of evidence that participating in Pickleball and other racket sports increases longevity and helps seniors with cognitive ability.
Players say it's similar to games like ping pong and tennis, melding them into a sport that values community and competition.
Overall, Canadians say they are PICKLEBALL, PAGE 11
This is Bruno, the most friendly, caring and playful dog you will ever meet!
Submitted by R Nandal
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4050 Richardson Side Road, TILBURY 519-682-0956 | calvary.tilbury@gmail.com www.calvarytilbury.com
Lighthouse Cove part of County wide AED initiative
By Matt Weingarden
Two new automated external defibrillators have been added to the Lighthouse Cove area.
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable lifesaving device that quickly and safely determines whether a patient's heart would benefit from a “shock” of energy.
“Thank you to the Lighthouse Cove Lions Club for purchasing a new automated external defibrillator (AED) that is accessible to the public 24/7 on the outside wall of the variety store,” said EMS chief Justin Lammers, at a recent press conference. “Sudden Cardiac arrest is a big problem and it’s going to take all of us together to address and improve those outcomes. Healthcare in our current landscape, we’re facing challenges…we have a committed team that’s trying to do the best we can. In a well-run system, even if we can get here in six minutes, that six minutes that someone can be doing something to save a life.”
Lammers presented Municipality of Lakeshore councillor Larissa Vogler with a Cardiac Champion Award for the Lions Club. She and the other Lighthouse Cove residents are also Cardiac Champions for taking a CPR and AED Awareness session with paramedics Dave Thibodeau and Mitchell Laird recently.
“What you have done here in Lighthouse Cove as a group is impressive,” said Lammers. “We have a big vision for what we can achieve and
have residents and neighbours to help-out. We appreciate everything they are doing to be prepared to help save lives!”
Essex-Windsor EMS and Lighthouse Cove Community Group recently hosted the free CPR and AED Awareness Session. AEDs are simple to use. You can literally follow step-by-step voice prompts from the AED in the event of an emergency.
“Thanks to the Thames River Yacht Club in Lighthouse Cove and Commodore Joe MacVoy, for being Cardiac Champions!” said Lammers.
“The club has a publicly accessible AED and members are planning to learn more about how to use it and CPR to help save lives.”
Councillor Vogler shared that the community response has been amazing, with 16 residents taking part in the training sessions with more to come.
“Unfortunately, we have slower response times out here because of our geological distance from EMS location points,” said Vogler. “This can help to make a difference when every second counts.”
Next steps in the process include communication with the Municipality for some additional support when the Fire Master Plan comes before council this month.
“We’ll have a better sense of what the Municipality can do to help, what the recommendations are and can move forward on the issue.” added Vogler.
Maintenance and upkeep of the units will be done regularly, with monitoring of the devices done digitally through administrators. The next step is to purchase a heated case, so there is 24/7 access to the unit during the cold weather.
Essex-Windsor EMS is building a registry of all publicly available AEDs, so that dispatchers can direct members of public at the scene of an emergency to the nearest one.
Essex-Windsor EMS is using PulsePoint to map the publicly accessible AEDs in our region. You can find and help them to map publicly accessible AEDs on the PulsePoint website or you can use the PulsePoint AED app.
“Minutes matter when emergencies strike, so please assist us with this important initiative.” said paramedic Dave Thibodeau. “The more AEDs we have in our community and the more people who are able to use them, the greater the odds of survival when cardiac arrests strike.”
You can become a Cardiac Champion.
Businesses, organizations and groups of individuals across Essex County and Windsor are making a difference by fundraising, purchasing AEDs and learning how to use them. Essex-Windsor EMS recognizes them with Cardiac Champion Awards.
For more information, email Essex-Windsor EMS at defib@countyofessex.ca.
Legion donates to Food Pantry
6th Annual Lauren & Friends Lemonade Stand raises $10,204 for Terry Fox Foundation
By Matt Weingarden
On September 16, the ‘6th Annual Lauren & Friends Lemonade Stand’ in support of the Terry Fox Foundation was held at the Comber RONA store.
The ‘Comber Kid Crew’ - Lauren, Mighty Megan, Lily, McKenna, Mia, Riley, Ainsley, Adelynn, Hudson, Tanner, Courtney and Allie were out in full force, serving up lemonade, cheering roadside and counting up the donations!
“A lot of my friends, me included, have been volunteering for a long time, we have a lot of fun and its amazing,” said Lauren. “It’s important for me to volunteer with my friends and family.”
Lakeshore's own nine-year old Lauren Meadows has raised over $33,000 for the Terry Fox Foundation in just six years and by the end of the weekend she hopes to hit $43,000. – Photo by Matt Weingarden
WhiteCaps 15U Claim Provincial Championship Victory
This past Labour Day weekend the Lakeshore WhiteCaps 15U team captured the Provincial Championship at the Ontario Baseball Association's "C" Division year end tournament. – Robert Adams
Thames River Yacht Club in Lighthouse Cove is the second location of an AED in Lighthouse Cove. The Club members are planning to learn more about how to use the device and CPR to help save lives. – Matt Weingarden
From left; Ken Lanoue, branch executive member and volunteer food bank driver. Hannah Haskell, food bank food services coordinator. Richard Brooks, president of Belle River Legion. – Photo: Tony Rouse, PRO of Belle River Legion
Spark Project Invites Proposals for Public-Private Partnership to Redevelop Marina
By Evan Mathias
Belle River Marina could be getting a makeover in the near future with the upcoming completion of the Lakeshore Spark Project.
The project, which was seeking proposals for a public/private partnership to redevelop and improve the marina and pier facilities began taking Requests for Expression of Interest in July and completed the search September 27.
“I can’t get into specifics of how many submissions we’ve had for projects, but there is a lot of early interest,” said Ryan Donally, chief growth officer for the Municipality of Lakeshore.
The idea behind the Spark project originally came to light years ago when Mayor Bailey was still Deputy Mayor. It has been a vision of council for many years according to Donally, and it’s something they have continued on to this point.
“This is the first step in a conversation about how we can invest in this incredible destination, a jewel of Lake St. Clair, while facing significant financial pressures,” said Mayor Tracey Bailey, in a release. “We’re casting a wide net to see what kind of interest is out there, to see what ideas a partner can bring to the table, big or small, to help us improve this destination.”
The Marina facilities have seen
better days according to Donally. He believes that the area deserves revitalising.
“We’ve got a gem of a location at our pier there, which I would say is one of, if not the best beach destinations in Southwestern Ontario,” said Donally. “The current facilities there are in really rough shape. They haven’t had any tender love and care over the years. What we’re thinking will happen will be a full redevelopment of that entire building, into whatever comes forward.”
While they are open to ideas for businesses and commercial use of the Marina, Lakeshore council understands that it is still primarily a public park area.
“There are a couple essential parts to this, we still need to run a marine operation, so there is still a municipal element to it. We still need to ensure that there are publicly accessible facilities down there and that it is a public space in many ways,” said Donally. “We’re also interested in what the development community envisions for there.”
The opportunities and possibilities for the area are vast. According to Bailey, that’s the exciting part.
“I would love to see a proposal that builds on the strengths of the marina, pier, and surrounding park area. The space is already a regional destination, so anything that builds on that identity
and bolsters the elements that residents and visitors love would be ideal for me,” said Bailey. “That said, I also look forward to hearing from my colleagues on Council on what they would like to see.”
Donally is hoping that the marina area is just the start for driving change and redevelopment for the area.
“The opportunity to redevelop that pier through private/public partnership is something that we think with help transition not only the waterfront area and using that brilliant piece of land that is down there, but also help trigger and spark the rest of Belle River’s core,” said Donally.
There isn’t a timeline for the redevelopment process once all the
proposals are submitted by the Sept. 27 deadline.
“We’re going to compile all of the proposals and ensure that they meet the requirements of submission. From there we will bring them forward to council. We don’t have a timeline for that, it will depend on how many we get,” said Donally. “I expect we will have some of these ideas back in front of council before the end of the calendar year. We’ll need to determine if they need to be in closed session or not as these are individual proposals that do talk about financial and long-term relationships with the municipality.”
There isn’t one correct answer for the redevelopment of the marina. Donally said that there could be the opportunity to bring multiple parties together for different aspects of the area.
“Let’s just say for example that we have someone that wants to do restaurant and event space down there at the end and then there’s someone else that want’s to do something further south in the park area it doesn’t mean that those two things are exclusive,” said Donally. “Short answer, is it going to be a single entity that’s a Lakeshore partnership, maybe? Is it going to be one or more partners? That could very well be the case.”
GECDSB students assist to rebuild local history Lakeshore boasts six new outdoor pickleball courts at ATC
By Matt Weingarden
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
A group of students who participate in the Enhanced Construction Program through the Greater Windsor Essex County District School Board have been granted the opportunity of a lifetime to hone their construction skills while learning valuable lessons in local history.
As part of the summer school program, students embarked on a remarkable field trip to the John Freeman Walls Underground Railroad Museum to assist in the revitalization of the deck at the historic homestead. With support from the Carpenters and Joiners Local 494, SHSM, and Milwaukee Tool, the students are rebuilding an existing deck and stage area, which are attached to the historic Simcoe Building, built in 1978.
This project not only equips students with essential construction skills but also connects them to the deep historical significance of the Homestead, guided by the descendants of John Freeman Walls.
“This is a great way to teach
students about local history,” said Vicki Houston, director of education for the GECDSB. “Sometimes we have a tendency to forget the local people that came before us This is so much more than building a deck. This is a deck that is part of history attached to one of the oldest buildings in Canada.”
Houston says the project came to fruition through the ongoing partnership with the museum - which has existed for a number of years.
The Board came to the organization offering the construction program’s services as a way to give back to the community. Many of the current participants in the program are looking to learn a trade as apprenticeships.
“We have an opportunity to give back to the community and projects like this really helps to showcase the importance for students to learn the history and be a part of history.”
she added.
Chris Gosselin, the Enhanced Construction Program teacher shares that the partnership is a win-win for everyone involved.
“Students in the program receive exposure to many elements that
could lead to a pathway to a trade within the construction industry,” he said. “Participants enroll for a full semester spending mornings working on construction sites and attend math and english in the afternoon. When they have completed the program, they move to a co-op program and we assist in a bridge to an apprenticeship.”
Gosselin says it’s a great way to make a living, especially for those who like to work with their hands. Only 21 students are accepted into the program a year, so there is an interview process. Classes take place at the Carpenters Union, Local 494 Road in Oldcastle.
Devari, a Gr. 11 student at Walkerville, started in the program a year ago.
“Even though it’s a lot of work, it’s a lot of fun too,” he said, adding that he is following in his dad’s steps as a carpenter.
Kaiden St. John, is a student at Essex District High School, says he loves the program and that fact that it’s all hands-on work. He prefers being in the field, as opposed to sitting in a classroom.
“I would like to be a framer in the future,” he added.
Stephanie Lamarsh Clements is one of two young ladies in the program. She heard about the opportunity through her sister and Skills Ontario. She welcomes the challenge to keep up in a trade dominated by men.
“This project allows students to apply their skills in a real-world setting while learning about the historical significance of their work from the descendants of John Freeman Walls,” said Dr. Bryan Walls, who alongside his wife Anna, have run the museum since 1976.
“This stage has hosted thousands of visitors, including countless dignitaries from around the world. Even the great Mrs. Rosa Parks sat upon this stage numerous times. This day was not just about rebuilding a deck; it was about preserving a piece of history that inspires and educates all who visit,” added Walls. “
The Underground Railroad was a series of routes that were established to hide and transport former slaves escaping the Southern United States to the North.
PICKLEBALL, FROM PAGE 08 playing pickleball because it’s fun, its social, and for its health and fitness benefits. Pickleball remains popular among older adults, but the growth in numbers is coming from younger adults – particularly those aged 18 to 34.
Typically, Lakeshore’s tennis and pickleball courts are open to the public starting May 1, but shifting weather patterns and warmer temperatures have led to longer seasons for the courts.
Currently, Lakeshore is home to outdoor pickleball courts at five different locations, including the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre, Leffler Park, River Ridge Park, Maidstone Park, and Lighthouse Cove Lions Community Park, with more to come! Indoor pickleball programming is also offered at the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre and Comber Community Centre. Derek Candido and his wife Lisa have been playing pickleball for around a year.
“This is really good exercise for us, as well as expanding our social circle,” he said. “I try to get out as often as I can depending on my work schedule and the weather…it’s a great way for me to start the day.”
The next Fall FUN4 all tournament takes place on Monday October 7 at the ATC. Check out their Facebook page at Lakeshore Pickleball Association.
Photo: Municipality of Lakeshore
GECDSB Enhanced Construction Program students have been working on a restoration project during the summer at the John Freeman Walls Underground Railroad Museum in Lakeshore. – Matt Weingarden
