8 - Southpoint Sun
Wednesday, March 31, 2021
Letter to the Editor
Writer grateful to vaccinators, volunteers Dear Editor: We received our COVID vaccinations over two days in early March at the Sherk/Nature Fresh Centre in Leamington. It is truly remarkable how well organized the vaccinations process was and how so many people involved could show so much compassion and even humour, dealing with an elderly population. A heartfelt thank-you to our regional Public Health Office for providing not only the vaccines but the administrative structure to ensure those vaccines were delivered to residents effectively and certainly, efficiently. On the two mornings we were scheduled, the air was chilly and the winds brisk. Yet, in the pre-screening entry line where volunteers confirmed appointments, details regarding prospective contact and then provided masks, the atmosphere was supportive and the volunteers friendly and most helpful. Thereafter, from the hand sanitizer folks at the door of the Nature Fresh Recreation Centre to the formal registration process, there was assistance for those who needed help — like some elderly chap with his cane (as in me) – and there was sensitive assistance, re-as-
surance and many, many smiles. From registration, we were directed to our “shot seat” or station by a most ebullient volunteer — a delightful chap. Personally, I felt as if I somehow had met and know almost all those encountered at the vaccination site, in some friendly past context. Administering the vaccine shot was painless – although I did feel minor shoulder discomfort for about 24 hours thereafter. At each point, birth date and identity were confirmed. In retrospect, it did seem that every needle-stabbing nurse was named “Jenny”. However that aside, my “Jenny” quietly talked with me as I moaned a tad about often crying when receiving a flu shot and as how sometimes, I have received a chocolate Easter egg. “Jenny” smiled and said, “okay, we’re all done!” “Done,” I replied. “I didn’t even feel a needle.” She smiled and wished me well. Directed to a 15-minute rest area we sat – my darling wife holding my hand – and another charming woman came by to once more confirm that one — I was alive, two — I had the same address that I’d had at regis-
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Generous Supporters: Southpoint Sun & the Municipality of Leamington
FREE ADMISSION: Thurs-Friday 10-4:30, Sat-Sun 12-4
Generous Supporters: Southpoint Sun & the Municipality of Leamington
tration, and three — That I really had been born before cell phones were invented. Departure from the Nature Fresh vaccination site was equally efficient and equally populated by persons sharing smiles, greetings and, Wow! A lovely little gift package of juicy tomatoes and a mini-cucumber. Albeit not a chocolate Easter bunny or egg, but a good deal healthier. Bet those folks receiving vaccinations in far-off Windsor didn’t receive a veggie goody package. And we exited the building certified as vaccinated and drooling tomato juice down my chin. To all the volunteers and to all the professionals and to those who laboured to ensure that many of us not only received our COVID vaccinations, but received it from kind and caring people, I offer Three Hearty Cheers. And, of course, the veggie reward was deeply appreciated. Leamington and area should be justifiably proud. Naturally, we realize that we must still distance, wear masks, wash hands and exercise caution. This plague or pandemic isn’t over yet, folks. Sincerely, Lloyd Brown-John, Leamington
Lottery winner cashes big Plinko prize TORONTO — Julie Reid of Wheatley, lived out a ‘Price is Right’ dream at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto recently, dropping a chip on a real PLINKO Board to win $400,000 with the new $5 Instant Plinko. Julie says she is a regular lottery player. “I usually play any game that the retailer recommends,” she shared. “I played my ticket in the car when I realized I won a CHIP prize,” she said. “I brought it to the store, and that’s when I realized I would be coming to Toronto to play the in-person chip drop.” Julie says her husband cried tears of joy when she told him about the big win. “I’m thrilled that I won. This allows me to pay my daughter’s student loan and complete some home renovations with plenty left over for a happy retirement,” she concluded.
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Thursday, April 1st at 4:30 p.m. for the April 7th issue
Have a r! te Happy Eas
Reid, Gordon Robert Passed away suddenly on March 28, 2021. Son of the late Everett and Rita Reid. Father of MacKenzie (Derek) Lauzon. Grandfather of Kye and Avyn Lauzon. Survived by sisters Sharon (Richard) Janisse, Mary Reid (Richard Dupp), Jan Reid Rowatt (Glen), late Darlene ( Jim Kocsis). As per his wishes, cremation has taken place. A private burial will take place at a later date. If desired, memorial donations made to the War Amps of Canada would be appreciated by contacting the Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631). Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Klassen, Jacob Helmut “Jake” 81 years, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 22, 2021 at Erie Shores HealthCare. Loving husband of Martha Klassen (nee Dick) for 56 years. Dear father of Andrea Orsini (Michael) and Heather Klassen. Proud Opa of Sarah, Logan, Olivia and Hailey. He is survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Victor and Marie Dick and Frank and Loretta Dick, and many nieces and nephews, whose company he enjoyed. Jake was known and loved by many and will be missed dearly by his family and friends. He is predeceased by his daughter, Beth Ann, his mother and father, Helene and Jacob Klassen, his sister, Helene Springer (late John Springer). Born in 1940 in Osterwick, South Russia he emigrated to Leamington in 1948. Always an independent spirit Jake owned his own business in electronics repair for many years. His first love was his family and then closely followed by being outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing and walking his dog, Maggie, spending time with his grandkids and enjoying time with his friends over a cup of coffee or a spirited card game. He enjoyed volunteering his time to several community organizations and was particularly devoted to Speqtra Therapeutic Riding Association. Jake’s journey over the last 4 years was full of courage, faith, love and a good dash of humour. We would like to thank the many incredible personal support workers, doctors, nurses, therapists and individuals who helped Jake during these past few years. At Jake’s request, cremation has taken place. A private family service will be held to celebrate Jake’s life. Memorial donations may be made to Speqtra Special Education Therapeutic Riding Association or The Bridge, Leamington Youth Resource Centre. Arrangements entrusted to SIMPLE CHOICE (Kingsville) 519-254-2585. Family and friends may share memories at www.simplechoicecremation.com
