It was a full house of parents, family and friends for two ice shows Saturday afternoon and evening, April 1, at Skate Wheatley’s annual carnival, themed ’80s On Ice. Skaters from Skate Canada’s flagship CanSkate program to Senior and competitive stream skaters showcased skills during the two-hour production, which featured popular music
By Mark Ribble
The Leamington Arts Centre (LAC) and South Essex Arts Association wants to remain partners with the Municipality of Leamington to offer this summer’s Mill Street Market events.
Arts Centre Director and Curator Chad Riley appeared at the Tuesday, March 28 meeting of Leamington Council to speak on the agreement and reassure town officials that the LAC is all-in on the market events.
However, Riley did say that they are spread very
thin in July with the annual Arts at the Marina, so asked if council would consider doing three market events instead of four.
“I do appreciate that the municipality would like to see four (events), but the turnaround between the Arts at the Marina and the Mill Street Market for July would only be two weeks.
Riley said that ideally, they’d like to see discussion on the Mill Street Markets in the fall, which will allow them to hit the ground running after municipal budget approval, but getting ev-
erything rolling in March for a June start-up is tight time-wise.
“Our main goal is to get through the June one,” he said. “Arts at the Marina will be the biggest ever and it would be really tough to pull off a market in July.”
Mayor Hilda MacDonald asked Riley if it was a question of volunteers, as she felt that council could help in producing volunteers.
“Is it doable to do four?” she asked. “Ideally, I’d like to see four. Can we help with volun-
teers?”
Riley said it wasn’t necessarily about volunteers on the day of the event, but more the Arts Centre staff that would need to be hired on at extra cost.
“We’ve applied for funding for a special events coordinator,” he said. “It’s not yet approved.”
MacDonald asked if the organization was still interested in the markets.
“Do you think this is in your skill set as an organization?” she asked. “It this something that the SEAA wants to do?”
Riley assured the mayor and council that the Arts Association was fully capable of doing the markets, but felt that four might be too many coming out of the pandemic years.
“We only did two last year,” he said. “That was very manageable.”
In the February budget deliberations, council had approved $52,000 to run the four planned markets, which were tentatively scheduled for June 9, July 21, August 18 and September 15.
MARKETS - Page 2
Riley added that if council decided on four they would do them, but felt that three would be more ideal.
Councillor Heather Latam asked Riley if he felt they could do four, but three would be done really well.
“I’m still a little bit on the fence,” she said. “I want to see four, but I hear you saying three could be done and done well.”
Councillor Tim Wilkinson said he’s okay with either three or four.
“I think we’re all in a win-win situation here,” he said. “When we talk about it at our strategic planning, how we care about our arts and culture institutions. They say they can do four but three would be better for them.
Let’s look to them and take their lead.”
Councillor Abraham agreed, saying that three events done well are better.
“You don’t want to have any hiccups due to time constraints,” he said.
“I’d be willing to agree
with maybe three markets for this season.”
Abraham asked for an amended motion to cover the three Mill Street Markets for 2023 with the full $52,000 set aside for the four events.
Councillor Bill Dunn seconded the motion and after a short discussion, council decided to approve three Mill Street Markets in partnership with the SEAA, eliminating the July 21 event.
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The Pelee Islander made its way to the island Friday and was scheduled to arrive in Leamington Saturday morning.
High winds throughout the day caused a delay in the schedule and the immediate return to the island was postponed until Saturday night.
Area boat enthusiasts and Pelee Island tourism eagerly await warm summer breezes as residents and visitors look to escape the winter season.
With the easing of cross border travel restrictions, municipal officials are optimistic of a renewed U.S. transient boater influx. Several groups have already booked their visits and the town fields inquiries regularly as the season approaches.
To mark the start of the Pelee season, reservations for the Pelee ferry service have opened.
The Pelee Islander commenced sailing April 1, while the MV Pelee Islander II will be out-ofwater due to its five-year dry-docking requirement.
Transport Canada requires a dry-dock inspection every five years.
It is anticipated its first sailing date will be May
5. Upon dry-dock completion and return, the MV Pelee Islander II will commence its spring sailing schedule.
To maintain service levels to Pelee Island, more sailings and capacity have been introduced on the Pelee Islander, a much smaller vessel. Sandusky, Ohio, runs have been added to the schedule when both boats are operational.
The port in Leamington will house both units until July 30, and from July 31 the docks at Kingsville will be in service until an anticipated last run of December 11.
Reservations can be made online or over the phone, 1-800-661-2220.
It’s been a week of bittersweet emotions for Hilary Hodgson and her staff at Lil Hil’s Coffee Shop in Wheatley.
After 19 months operating away from their usual home at 13 Talbot Street West, they are one step closer to “going home”. They wrapped up a 17-month residency at Talbot Trail Golf Course on Thursday, March 30 and look forward to getting up and running soon at their usual location.
According to Hodgson, she’s hoping to be operational by the first of May, which coincidentally would be seven years to the day of her original opening.
“We’ve almost become professional movers with all the moving around we’ve done,” she says. “Soon we’ll be back home.”
After the August 26, 2021 explosion in downtown Wheatley abruptly put a halt to her thriving coffee shop and restaurant, Lil Hil’s opened up with a temporary outdoor tent at Taylor Fish in September of 2021, but the fall weather forced her to make another move two
months later.
She landed on her feet at Talbot Trail in November of that year and has been sharing that space with the golf course and the Wheatley Legion ever since.
“I am grateful to every single person in Wheatley who has supported us,” she said. “From Taylor Fish to Talbot Trail to everyone in between.”
She says the support and work of her landlords has been amazing throughout as well.
“Randy and Penny Loxton, Tim and Stephany Mercer and the entire Mercer family have all been phenomenal through all of this,” she said. “If it weren’t for them, we wouldn’t have a home to go back to.”
Hilary says the coffee shop is in the midst of a complete renovation, but will still have that downhome coffee shop feeling that regulars have been used to for years.
Coffee shop regular George Christiansen says he’s been a regular customer of Lil Hil’s for years and the staff is always happy to see him.
“I enjoy coming here and if anyone is looking
for me, they can usually find me at Lil Hil’s,” he says.
That down-home close knit community feeling is what Hilary and her staff have become accustomed to and she’s looking forward to returning to where that all started.
“We’re grateful to have the opportunity to keep doing what we love,” she said. “There’s lots to do but we’re looking forward to it. Our insurance company (Kent-Essex Mutual) has been amazing to us.”
As they turn the page on another chapter, Hodgson and her dedicated staff will keep busy over the next month getting their “home” ready for a reopening.
It’s a turn of the page she is looking forward to as her neighbours — iScreams — are preparing to reopen as well.
“We need to get life back into the uptown,” she says. “Just seeing life uptown will bring people so much joy.”
And that’s what it’s all about for Hilary Hodgson – bringing joy to her customers.
And as challenging as the past 19 months
have been for Hilary, her staff and her customers, she’s excited to see what
Wheatley becomes in the future.
“I hope that is soon-
er rather than later,” she says.
As communicated at a public meeting on March 1, the Chatham-Kent municipal team has reviewed the staffing that remain on site on a 24/7 basis in Wheatley since the August 26, 2021 explosion.
As of April 1, Chatham Kent Police Services (CKPS) will no longer remain onsite 24 hours per day at the evacuation zone in Wheatley. CKPS will now be providing increased patrol services around the evacuation zone throughout
the day and night.
Security guards and hazmat technicians from HSE Integrated remain on scene 24 hours per day.
Also discussed at the public meeting was additional pump testing of the monitoring well similar to what occurred in October. This testing is being scheduled for mid-April. The date is not yet confirmed.
The anticipation of funds raised filled the air at the Hospice Erie Shores Welcome Centre on Tuesday, March 28 as the Bail-
largeon kids from Kids Curing Cancer made their second annual trip to the hospice to deliver good news.
That good news came in the form of a $30,039.88 cheque that had everyone in attendance emotional.
Last year’s donation by the same group was $8,234, which the folks from the Hospice Erie Shores Campus were grateful for.
“It all started with wanting to raise $50.”
Lauren, Ty and Kierstyn Baillargeon began raising funds in 2014 when Lauren was nine, Ty and Kierstyn were four years old and their grandfather — Dan Gerard — was battling cancer.
April 6, 2023
This year’s amount was a surprise to everyone except the Baillargeons and their family, who all attended the unveiling in support of the cause.
They raised $3,860 that year and made the donation to the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre, expecting it to be a one-time thing.
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Lauren Baillargeon, the oldest of the group, said that about $13,000 was raised through their annual pasta/music night fundraiser and the rest through cash donations and fundraisers they ran through Sweet Moments Bakery, South County Predators Hockey, Windsor Spitfires, Accurate Creations and What’s Poppin Popcorn.
The pasta and music night is their big event, held at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery every February up until COVID came calling. This year was their first year back in three years. The event features local musicians, including the Baillargeon family, who are all talented musicians, as well as a fabulous meal provided by the host, Sprucewood Shores.
“Today marks our 10th year for Kids Curing Cancer,” said Ty Baillargeon.
When the trio visited Leamington last year to present their cheque and donation, they vowed to raise even more for this year.
The surprise on the face of Health Foundation and Hospice officials was the payoff for the youngsters as they unveiled this year’s total.
Long-time Hogs for Hospice coordinator Joe Oswald was present for the announcement and was moved to tears.
“Thanks for making me cry,” he said to the Baillargeon kids. “That’s just amazing.”
The $30,039.88 brings the 10-year total to $116,599.88.
“Our goal this year was to break the $100,000 total,” said Lauren. “None of this would be possible without our Kids Curing Cancer family, which includes our sponsors, volunteers, friends and family.”
Residents of Wheatley will notice road closed signage being installed on Erie Street North between Talbot and Elm on April 11. The duration of the closure is anticipated to be from April 11-19 for the demolition of the drug store on the corner of Erie and Talbot, as well as staging/execution of the monitoring well pump test. Truck detours remain in place around the Erie Street North closure.
For upcoming programs & events visit
Although a lot of older (and younger) folks would likely disagree, I believe that those of us born in the early-to-mid 1960s were born at exactly the right time to experience the fullest extent of life.
With regard to technology, I find that people my age are mostly in tune with modern technology, having been around for the onset of computers being a household item when we were still relatively young.
Those a decade older certainly have memories of the growing popularity of the television set and other things that made life easier for us. Some even older remember the invention of the refrigerator and freezer — something I can’t fathom doing without.
I was the first in my group of friends to own a VCR back in late 1982.
My brother was playing hockey in Calgary and brought home this giant Sylvania ‘video tape machine’ in the spring. That thing weighed about 50 pounds and I was pretty quick to go looking for a store where you could rent these new-fan-
gled VHS tapes.
My first foray into a video store was in Windsor. I believe it was on Tecumseh Road East, but I could be mistaken. They had hundreds of movies in VHS and Beta format. Leamington had no video stores at that time.
The guy behind the counter asked me which format I wanted.
I really didn’t know, but we settled on VHS with a warning from him that the Beta version would take over the world soon, so he told us not to get too comfortable in the VHS world.
It wasn’t long before my brother was off for another hockey season and with him went his fancy video tape machine.
I got a lot of mileage out of that heavy old machine before it left my life for good in the summer of 1982.
I made up my mind as I prepared for my first wedding in the spring of 1983, that we would have a VCR, so in the fall of 1982, off we went to Tepperman’s where we purchased a console TV with genuine maple-like cabinet finish and
an RCA VCR that loaded the tapes from the front instead of the top. The VCR had a remote control, while the TV did not.
And it’s a good thing I waited because the Beta version, which was supposed to revolutionize the world of movies, never caught on.
I thought VCRs would be around forever. They weren’t.
Now able to watch movies on my phone, I don’t think much about the old VCR unless I’m in the mood to watch one of our family movies we made when the kids were little.
Really though, who had it any better?
Us ’60s kids were right in line to see the popularity of the VCR, the microwave, computers and central air conditioning take off. The only thing we missed out on was the TVphone that the Jetsons talked to each other on, which is now a thing called Facetime.
I think back to toys when I was a kid that ushered in the ‘new’ technology.
The Easy Bake Oven, the Creepy Crawler sets with their oven called the Thing Maker, the doll that talked when you
If you stood at the Four Corners in uptown Leamington in the late 1950s, you’d see a purple 1953 Meteor go by. The driver was 19-year-old Joe Knight wearing a green and white Leamington Road Runners jacket with checkered flags on the left sleeve.
pulled the string. These things were cutting edge technology for us kids of the late ’50s and early ’60s.
Mark RibbleThen came Coleco Electric Football.
Now, I was first and foremost a hockey and baseball kid. I knew Roman Gabriel was the quarterback for the LA Rams, but past that I knew nothing about football.
I lobbied my mother for the Coleco Electric Football, and eventually it was delivered to me one Christmas when I was about 10.
You would have thought I received one of those giant Hershey chocolate bars at the doorstep when I saw that beautiful rectangular box.
Unwrapping it, I wasn’t sure if it contained the Coleco Football or tabletop hockey, but either way, I was in for a treat.
It was the football game and I was glad because I’d already had the hockey game and my siblings had all moved out and left me no opponents.
Talk about technology!
It took me awhile to figure out how those football players
moved around that field the way they did.
The base of the players were all magnets and the metal field vibrated, which shook everything up and made those plastic players move around like crazy.
You simply had to put the teeny tiny football on the base of one player and hit the switch.
The buzzing and blinking that went on was endless.
Being of able mind, it wasn’t long that the novelty wore off and I was on to something else.
It could have been Battling Tops, which I played for hours once I got them.
I always wanted Rock-’Em Sock ’Em Robots, but mom never acquiesced to that.
Just before we moved into town, I remember getting Battling Tops and a game called Rebound, which was basically miniature shuffleboard. Funny, my sister says we were poor back then but I seemed to get a lot of the newfangled toys. Mom must have liked me better.
The radio would be blaring Sheb Wooley’s hot new hit, “The Purple People Eater”, on Leamington’s new radio station, CJSP, and the title of that song was painted on Joe’s rear fenders.
Joe’s first car was a light blue 1941 Ford purchased in 1955 for $100. It burned oil so he replaced it in 1957 with a cream and brown 1953 Meteor sedan from Leon Groombridge at Murray Myles Mo-
While we do not intend to be a controversial newspaper, we recognize that some readers may have opposing viewpoints on the stories we publish. Should you have
tors on Talbot Street East.
Tom and Norris Sudds created Joe’s custom colour in purple so deep it looked black at night. Someone else painted The Purple People Eater on the rear fenders. The car was also nosed and decked with a cable release for the trunk near the floor in the back seat.
Two years later, Joe traded in his purple ’53 Meteor at Noble Duff’s dealership in Windsor for a new 1959 Meteor Montcalm Rideau 500 two-
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The warden of the County of Essex gave the annual address at the Warden’s Luncheon last week and working together was a common theme.
Warden Hilda MacDonald spoke to a packed hall at the Ciociaro Club last Thursday afternoon where she gave a bit of her background and what her and county council’s goals are going forward. The event was presented by the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce (WERCC).
“The talent, passion and ingenuity in this room is inspiring,” said MacDonald, who is the first female warden in Essex County history.
MacDonald — also the Mayor of Leamington, was first elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. She also spent a term as her municipality’s deputy mayor and two terms as councillor.
She called the luncheon a “gathering of friends” and said they look forward to working with partners, including the WERCC and the City of Windsor among many others.
“Success requires teamwork and strong partnerships,” she said, “which we are fortunate to have in abundance in Windsor-Essex.”
The county won’t always agree with their partners, such as Windsor, but she pledged they will work collaboratively with them for the betterment of the region. She also thanked provincial and federal representatives for being available to hear
the county’s concerns and advocate on the county’s behalf.
“We could not achieve our goals without the backing and input of our business community,” she stated.
MacDonald pointed out she was once a small business owner, telling the crowd of over 300 people “I stand before you as someone who knows the courage and conviction it takes to own and operate a business.”
She said when she was a small business owner in Leamington, she was part of a larger business community, and they were stronger when united. MacDonald added she knows what it is like to deal with suppliers, employees, bills and profits.
MacDonald also highlighted some of the region’s accomplishments and ongoing projects. She said the Conference Board of Canada’s forecast calls for the region’s economy to expand this year at nearly twice the national rate.
One of the projects that factored into it was the ongoing construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, something MacDonald noted took years of advocacy and planning. She pointed out it is expected to be open by 2025.
“Not only will it be a key border crossing between Canada and the United States, but it is also resulting in millions of dollars of community investments in Windsor-Essex and Detroit,” she said. “It’s fantastic to see the bridge taking shape, with the towers on either side.
leamingtonartscentre.com - 519.326.2711
Visiting Hours + Art Supply Shop: Tues-Fri 11-5pm, Sat-Sun11-3pm
onVIEW
JURIED STUDENT ART SHOW: 25th Annual
THE PASSIONATE JOURNEY SO FAR: Michael Mastronadi
ARTboard
ARTS @ the MARINA: call for exhibitors + sponsors
July 1 & 2. Be part of one of the regions oldest and most widely acclaimed fine arts & crafts shows. Open to all forms of arts and crafts, food and beverage vendors. Spots fill up quickly, apply today on our website at leamingtonartscentre. com/arts-at-the-marina
SIP & PAINT NIGHT
April 21, 7-9PM. Tickets are $65 and include 2 drink tickets, a personal charcuterie plate, all painting materials and instruction! Register groups of 4 or more for $60 each. Register online @ leamingtonartscentre.com/adult-learning
YOUTH ART CLASSES
Children's Acrylic Painting, Little Cubs Craft Club, and Youth Exploring Mixed Media classes currently open. Visit leamingtonartscentre.com/youth-learniing for more info.
ADULT ART CLASSES
Exploring Famous Artists & Styles of Painting, Adult Acrylic Painting for Beginners open for registrations. Visit leamingtonartscentre.com/adult-learning for more info.
It’s a reality. It’s important!”
Construction of the new Windsor-Essex mega-hospital is expected to begin in 2026, MacDonald added, with “detailed planning now underway.”
“The County of Essex is strongly committed to seeing this project through,” she said, noting there is $6.36 million in the county’s 2023 budget towards the reserve for the hospital project. That amount brings the overall total to over $40 million that Essex County has set aside.
“The new hospital will attract the best and brightest in the field of medicine to our region,” she predicted.
MacDonald also touched on the new NextStar Energy battery plant that is to be built in east Windsor. She noted the impact that will have on the county as well, pointing out the County of Essex is preparing for it with a “massive multiyear project in the County Road 42 corridor that will open that area up for traffic to the new battery plant and spinoff developments.”
The County of Essex has spent more than $50 million in that area since 2010 and there are almost $350 million in projects either
underway or in planning.
“These three mega-projects are fueling tremendous excitement and growth for our region,” said MacDonald. “But the County of Essex is preparing for more.”
The county is creating its first-ever strategic plan, she added, and hopes to have it completed later this year. She said it will show the vision of Essex County and also help business owners and leaders “make smart decisions about investing in Essex County.”
In the meantime, the county wants to clear away “unnecessary red tape” and allow businesses to thrive in the region.
Noting that Essex County is comprised of “seven strong municipalities” that work together, MacDonald added she has been impressed by the “diversity of experience and knowledge around our council table.” Decisions are being made in the best interests of the region, she noted.
Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers said that town is embarking on a longterm strategic plan to map out their vision and put it into action. A goal of that is to promote health, wellness and active transportation. He also praised his business community in Kingsville.
Pelee Island Mayor Cathy Miller also spoke, noting that while it is small (230 people and 424 households), it has also featured about 20 per cent of it being a globally important bird area. She said they have just over $1.8 million in tax revenue but
MONDAY, APRIL 17
MONARCH CAFE
Nashville style in the round music series! Doors 6:30 pm Show 7:00 pm - tickets $15.
FRIDAY, APRIL 28
DALE’S FRIDAY COFFEE HOUSE
New and emerging musicians! Doors 6:30 pm Show 7:00 pmpass the hat.
SATURDAY, APRIL 29
IMPROV NITE
Laugh with local and not-so-local comedians! Doors 6:30 pm Show 7:00 pm - tickets $15.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Ushers, Smart Serve, Box Office, Set Builders & More. Contact Michelle at banktheatre@gmail.com
an infrastructure backlog that would take $80 million to clear up. Miller added “Pelee Island is where Canada begins” but “we need strong partners to succeed.”
MacDonald noted her home municipality of Leamington is increasing available land for industrial development north of urban Leamington, working on increasing the supply of affordable housing including the purchase of the former Leamington District Secondary School building. They have also worked to provide an on-demand transit service with the transit system between Leamington and Windsor “still going strong.”
“From tourism initiatives to commercial and industrial development; from major residential expansion to working on housing and homelessness solutions, the seven municipalities are working together to strengthen our regional economy while working to enhance our natural features and, in the process, maintain and improve the quality of life for all residents,” said MacDonald. “We can’t do it alone. We want to work with you, our partners –business, financial, legal, development, community organizations and political partners. There is strength in numbers. There is success in partnerships. There is value in collaboration.”
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12 ESSEX COUNTY FIELD NATURALISTS CLUB WILL MEET - at Ojibway Nature Centre, 500 Matchette Rd. Speakers: Carole Donaldson & Howard Williams. Topic: A Personal Journey: From Rocks to Wildflowers, a photographic journey from New Zealand to Noval Scotia & Ontario. Free to the public. All welcome.
THURSDAY, APRIL 13
KINGSVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE'S SENIORS' EXPO - 1860 Division Rd. N. 9:00 am to noon. Over 40 exhibitors, free to enter, interactive displays and give-aways. Learn about supportive services, active & healthy living, mental & social well-being programs and more!
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19
LEAMINGTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY WILL MEET at 7:00 p.m., Leamington United Church, 9 John St. Speakers: Juliette and Albert St. Pierre. Topic: Orchids. All welcome for an evening of horticultural fun and fellowship. Info: Charlie Wright 519-324-5412.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19
ESSEX, ONTARIO ANCESTORS APRIL WEBINAR at 7:00 p.m. Topic: British Home Children in Essex County. Speaker: Jayne Foster. Free and open to everyone. Go to https://essex. ogs.on.ca for Zoom link to register.
SATURDAY, APRIL 22
SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO GLEANERS SPRING FUNDRAISING BANQUETstarting at 5:30 p.m., Leamington Portuguese Club, 217 Talbot St. W. Tickets $75 per person through Gleaners office 519-326-7687. Proceeds from dinner and auction go directly to the work of the Gleaners in their fight to eradicate hunger locally and internationally.
THURSDAY, APRIL 27
KINGSVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE'S COFFEE HOUSE - 1860 Division Rd. N. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fun, free, family friendly evening of music. Refreshments provided. All are welcome!
THURSDAY, MAY 4
MENOPAUSE! WHAT'S HAPPENING TO ME? - with Registered Holistic Nutritionist Karen Taylor Edgerton. 7:00 pm, Kingsville Community Centre 1860 Division Rd. N. Learn what your hormones need and want using a functional balanced approach. Free presentation with giveaways and more. Registration required, email: Kim@kingsvillecentre.com
FRIDAY, MAY 5
CELEBRATE! CINCO DE MAYO LUNCHEON - hosted by Order of the Eastern Star at Parvaim Central Masonic Lodge, 30 Laird Ave., Essex. Cold lunch & a touch of Mexico. Serving from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. $20 per person. Everyone welcome.
ONGOING
GRIEF SHARE CLASSES will meet every Friday at 1:00 p.m. at the Leamington Half Century Centre, 160 Talbot St. E. There is no charge for these classes. Call 519-326-2521 to register or call Cliff at 519-816-5449.
STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL HEALTH?
Reach out to Hope 4 Me Peer to Peer Support Group. Virtual and in-person meetings available. Contact Tracy, Sue or Nancy at hope4mepeer@ gmail.com for information about the group.
THE VILLAGE RESOURCE at 108 Talbot St. E. In Wheatley is hosting free one-on-one Tech Support sessions each Monday from 2:004:00 p.m. Bring your phones, tablets, iPads and questions!
INDIVIDUALS WHO REQUIRE ASSESSMENTS TO ENTER TREATMENT PROGRAMS FOR ADDICTIONS can contact Ian MacNeil, Social Worker with Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare, located at 33 Princess St. (1st floor) in Leamington, on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. You can leave a message 24/7 at 519984-2531. Contact Ian at this number for more information.
ANTI-STRESS PRACTICE - (called Do-In)Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd. N. Thursdays 11:00 am to 12 noon. Learn to use pressure, tapping, breathing, stretching and self-massage for vital organ functions and better health. Free program. For more info email Kim@ kingsvillecentre.com.
ERIE SHORES TOASTMASTERS MEETING in person at 6:00 pm every other Wednesday at the LEAMINGTON LIBRARY, 1 John St., Leamington. Develop your Communication and Leadership Skills in a positive, friendly environment. Next meetings: March 29 and April 12, 26. Visit a meeting and see how you like it! For more info Email: ErieShoresTM@ yahoo.com Facebook: Erie Shores Toastmasters or go to ErieShores.toastmastersclubs.org.
KINGSVILLE MILITARY MUSEUM, 145 Division St. S., Kingsville, open Tues. to Friday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm and Saturday 9:00 am - 12 noon. 519-733-2803. Collection of military items from Boer War, WWI, WWII, Korean War, Afghanistan War.
COMMUNITY ANGEL CLOTHING
CUPBOARD OPEN WEDNESDAYSappointments preferred, walk-ins are welcome 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Call 519-326-3111 to book your appointment. All are welcome! Free! St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Donated gently used clothing for men, women and children of all ages.
CORNHOLE - Drop in Thursdays, 9:00 a.m.10:30 a.m. At Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd. N. No fee. No registration.
TAI CHI - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd. N. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Gentle physical exercises and stretches. Each posture flows into the next. Tuesday geared to beginners. No registration required.
GUITAR WELLNESS - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd. N. Thursdays, 4:00 to 5:00 pm. Guitar lessons to enhance physical, emotional and spiritual wellness. Group session. No registration required. Free program.
ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT SOMEONE’S DRINKING?
Al-Anon Family Groups meeting information: 519-790-7739 or www.alanonwindsoressex.com
JOIN THE KINGSVILLE FRIENDLY CLUB TO PLAY CARDS every Tuesday and Friday afternoon, 12:45 p.m., at the Unico Community Centre, 33 Beech St., Kingsville. Tuesday is euchre, bridge, cribbage. Friday is euchre, bridge, pepper. Must be 50+ years of age to join. If interested, drop in any Tuesday or Friday.
Libro Credit Union has contributed $50,000 to The Bridge Youth Resource Centre’s Welcome Home Starts With You tiny home community initiative. These homes are not just a space for youth to transition to once they have been part of the Quiring Family Fresh Start Housing facility, the units will also be available to other population groups.
“As a purpose-led organization, Libro exists to make an impact on people and communities and has a special focus on housing, which is one of our four pillars of Libro,” said Lori Atkinson, Libro Regional Manager. “Libro Credit Union is determined to play a role in increasing the availability of affordable and attainable housing. We are glad
to make a contribution and call on others to join us. As everyone at a credit union knows, we become stronger when we work together.”
The first four units are completed, with the other eight rental homes set to be ready for occupancy sometime this spring.
“We are so grateful to Libro Credit Union for investing in our organization,” said Krista Rempel, Executive Director for The Bridge. “This project is reflective of a community need around housing and will translate into on-going operating dollars that will help sustain our organization for years to come.
We look forward to continuing this work around our tiny home community development.”
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has completed a Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Study to develop a transportation plan for Talbot Trail from the 2nd Concession Line (Ellerbeck Road) to the east of County Road 12.
The EA Study has evaluated alternatives for alignment, cross sections, intersections and active transportation to develop a recommended plan to address the needs within the study area.
At its meeting in January, CK Council approved the recommended plan for Phase 1. Phase 2 is described in the Environmental Study Report (ESR) for information only.
The Talbot Trail Phase 1 recommended plan includes the implementation of a new two-lane arterial roadway in order to relocate Talbot Trail to the 2nd Concession Line, from Ellerbeck Road to Stevenson Road, with a right-of-way width of 36 metres. Local access roads and/or driveway extensions will be constructed as required to service residents if/when Talbot Trail is affected by closures due to coastal erosion in the future. Exact locations for local access roads will be determined as required.
The immediate need for the Talbot Trail relocation to 2nd Concession Line is between Coatsworth Road and Stevenson Road, due to the current closure.
For more information, visit CK’s Let’s Talk page at letstalkchatham-kent.ca. The ESR will also be available for viewing during business hours at the Chatham Civic Centre Municipal Office, 315 King St. W., Chatham, until May 30.
The family of Jim Dales would like to thank Dr. Eaton, Nancy, Cindy, the staff at Erie Shores HealthCare Hospital and Leamington Erie Shores Hospice for all the care that Jim received. Our gratitude to Margaret and Lauren for providing the catering between visitations. Also, we express our appreciation to Judy, Kevin, Cathy, Paul, Sloan and Evan for the constant support and respect from the beginning to the end of his journey. All of you, never selfish, always kind with a heart of gold. Our lives will never be the same without him – he left behind many beautiful memories!
Sincerely, Marilyn, Chris, Brook, Shadd & families
April 3, 2022
If we could write a story, it would be the greatest ever told, Of a kind and loving husband, father and grandfather, who had a heart of gold. We could write a million pages, but there’s one thing we would say, Just how much we love him and miss him every single day
With Love From Gail, Randy & Carol, Ruth & Rick
In Loving Memory of Our Father Karl rudy
September 3, 1931 – April 6, 2013
We think about all the times we spent with you and all the great things you did for us. We love and miss you!
Lisa, Rob, Marsha & Paul
April 9, 2020
Forever loved, forever remembered.
To the living, I am gone,
To the sorrowful, I will never return,
To the angry, I was cheated,
To the happy, I am at peace,
To the faithful, I have never left.
I cannot speak, but I can listen, I cannot be seen, but I can be heard.
So as you stand gazing at the stars, Remember me.
Remember me in your heart and in your thoughts,
The memories of the times we loved,
The memories of the times we shared, If you always think of me, I will never be truly gone. With Love From Your wife, sons
By Deanna Bertrand
It was a packed house April 1 and 2 for both Saturday and Sunday’s Giving Spoon fundraiser at The Bridge Youth Resource Centre on Sherk Street, Leamington. Organizers had already surpassed their goal for the day by noon – one hour into the event.
“It was a phenomenal turnout,” said organizer Bill Dunn — a.k.a. the Soup Guru. “We are truly blessed to be part of such a giving community.”
An official head count at the door showed 357 people Saturday and 306 for Sunday.
Dunn said the total amount raised will be well over $15,000 once everything is tablulated, which will then be turned over to The Bridge Youth Resource Centre.
Jacob
Erie Shores HealthCare (ESHC) has announced the launch of a second Emergency Department Wait Time Clock to help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.
The new clock will display the expected wait time for the Rapid Assessment Zone (RAZ) within the Emergency Department.
Erie Shores is one of only three hospitals in the province to make wait times for low-acuity patients available online.
To view the clock, visit https://erieshoreshealthcare.ca/waittimes.
The RAZ provides medical care for minor ailments and injuries, including minor abdominal pain, coughs, colds, fever, ear, nose and throat, eye
problems, cuts that may need stitches, sprains, strains, sports injuries, and minor asthma attacks or allergic reactions.
The new Wait Time Clock displays the number of patients currently waiting for treatment, allowing patients to make informed decisions about when to seek medical care.
The Rapid Assessment Zone is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Patients can expect prompt and efficient medical attention from highly qualified healthcare professionals.
Adding the new Wait Time Clock will enhance transparency in the delivery of medical services at Erie Shores HealthCare and improve patient satisfaction.
“Our priority is to pro-
Herm W. Dick, 94 years, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at Leamington Mennonite Home.
Beloved husband of Elizabeth Janzen Dick for 70 years. Loving father of Diane Froese (Ron), Dennis Dick (Vicki), Phil Dick, Greg Dick (Susan), Bob Dick (Janet), Dave Dick (Vickie), Joan Epp (Mike Reynaert) (late Ken Epp). Cherished grandfather of David (Candice), Andy (Lisa), Danielle (Jamey), Jonathan (Jennifer), Jacob, Kai (Abhi), Jesse, Keenan, Sam, Mitch (Mackenzie), Abby, Lyndsey (Rich), Bobby, Alexander, Daniel, Julia, Kevin (Emma), Elyse (Brandon), Jessica. Loving Grosspa of Jordan, Allie, Michael, Ethan, Brett Camryn, Amelia, Tannin, Gavin, Logan, Audrey and Miles.
Son of the late Wilhelm and Justina Dick. Dear brother of the late Annie and Neil Konrad, late Jake and Agnes Dick, the late William and Mary Dick, late John (survived by Amy) Dick, Agatha (late Harry) Tiessen. Brother-inlaw of the late Mary and Jim Greenside, late Jake and Erna Janzen, late Dave and Helen Janzen, late George (survived by Elsie) Janzen, late Henry (survived by Irma) Janzen, late Johnny (survived by Sandy) Janzen, Marion and Frank Reynen. He will be missed by many nieces, nephews, close cousins and wonderful friends young and old, near and far.
Herm was a long-time greenhouse and Heinz tomato farmer. As a community leader, he served on many educational and agricultural boards. Herm was a former Mersea Township Councillor. Herm was a recent recipient of the Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee award.
A special thank you to the staff of St. Elizabeth Health Care, Leamington Family Health Team and Leamington Mennonite Home for their compassionate care.
Visitation was at the Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Sunday, April 2, 2023 from 2-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
Funeral Service to celebrate Herm’s life was held on Monday, April 3, 2023 at North Leamington United Mennonite Church, 625 Mersea Road 6, Leamington, at 11:00 a.m. Interment Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.
If desired, memorial donations made to the Leamington Mennonite Home or UMEI would be appreciated. Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
vide our patients with the highest level of healthcare. We are confident that the new Wait Time Clock will improve the patient experience by providing them with real-time information about the expected wait time for medical attention,” said Holly Kettle, Emergency Department Operations Manager at Erie Shores HealthCare.
The launch of the new Wait Time Clock reflects Erie Shores HealthCare’s commitment to providing the highest level of healthcare to the community it serves. The healthcare centre is committed to providing exceptional medical care to its patients, and the new Wait Time Clock is an important step toward achieving this goal.
After public consultation and comments, Municipality of Leamington administration came to the March 28 council meeting with an alternative presentation. According to the recommendation, the main complaint of rejuvenating the uptown was that there was not enough parking.
The new plan, dubbed ‘alternative 2’, allows for 26 more parking spaces in the uptown area than currently exist.
To do this, the sidewalk on Talbot Street will be reduced in width by about one half a metre, and parking will be reverse angle parking such as that currently on Queens Avenue.
Gaspare Adragna, 86 years, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 27, 2023.
Plenty of discussion ranged from the reverse angle parking to the new restrictions on heavy trucks turning at the four corners (Talbot and Erie).
As traffic calming measures (bump-outs) are installed along Talbot Street, large trucks will have difficulty turning at the intersection, which — it is hoped — will encourage them to use County Rd 33 (east arterial bypass) instream to the uptown area.
Councillor Tim Wilkinson questioned administration about the turning of the trucks and how many times they’d end up on the sidewalk before they realized they needed to find another route.
Councillor Bill Dunn stated he was not a fan of the reverse angle parking. After some discussion the recommendation passed.
The project is part of the Uptown Master Plan passed by council in 2018.
The Erie and Talbot Streetscape Plan was subject of public online display in November 2022, where about 1,800 visits occurred.
Comments ranged from very positive to very negative and those comments formed the basis for the alternative plan being presented and approved.
Joanne Stockwell, 87 years, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 30, 2023 at the Sun Parlor Home. Loving daughter of the late Ernest and Pearl Stockwell. Dear sister of the late Gene Issell (late Frank), late Murray Stockwell (late Hilda). Cherished aunt of Judy and John Hammond, late Jim and surviving wife Cheryl Issell, Carol Stockwell, David and Kathy Stockwell, Doug and Joanne Stockwell, and many great-nieces and great-nephews.
Joanne volunteered for the Canadian Cancer Society for many years, won many medals in the Para Olympics, and was instrumental in forming Handi-Transit.
April 05, 2023 Southpoint Sun
$200 plus $26 HST = $226
Beloved husband of Pierina (Rubino). Loving father of Paolo (Josie), Giuseppe (Cristina), Claudio, Renato (Heather). Cherished Nonno of Pierina (Mark) Ricci, Anna (Jean Pierre) Zina, Vanessa Adragna (Austin Thompson), Rina Adragna, Marissa Adragna (Michael Baumann), Sabrina Adragna (Logan Smith), Gabriella Adragna (Kyler Barrette), Mia Adragna, Gaspare Adragna. Cherished Bis Nonno of Charlie Michael Zina.
A special thank you to all of Joanne’s caregivers over the years and the staff of the Sun Parlor Home for their care and compassion.
April 05, 2023
Southpoint Sun
A family celebration of Joanne’s life will take place on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery at 10:00 a.m.
$200 plus $26 HST = $226
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca
Thanks.
Son of the late Paolo and Anna Maria Adragna. Dear brother of the late Nicola (late Vitina) Adragna, late Vitina (late Andrea) Peraino, Masina (late Peitro) Palma, the late Giusseppe (Giovanna) Adragna, Sarina (late Stefano) Ruggirello. Son-in-law of the late Giuseppe and Vita Rubino. Dear brother-in-law of the late Lina Mineo (late Vito), the late Anna Catanese (late Salvatore), late Francesca Figliomeni (late Antonio), Maria Contino (late Pino), the late Sarina Mantia (late Nino), the late Salvatore Rubino (late Anna), the late Giuseppe Rubino (late Pina), Gaetano (late Noella) Rubino, Nicola Rubino (Maria). He will be missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Gaspare was a life-long fisherman in Sicily and Wheatley/ Kingsville. He would light up a room anywhere he went with his loving and caring demeanor.
A special thank you to Windsor Regional, Erie Shores and University Hospitals and Bayshore Home Care for their care and compassion.
Visitation was at the Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Friday, March 31, 2023 from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.
Mass of the Resurrection was held on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at St. Michael’s Church, 29 Elliott Street, Leamington, at 10:30 a.m. Entombment Erie Memorial Gardens.
If desired, memorial donations made to the Erie Shores Health Foundation or Erie Shores Hospice would be appreciated.
Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
If desired, memorial donations made to the Cerebral Palsy Association would be appreciated, by contacting the Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519326-2631).
Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca Thanks.
Patricia Ann Dalgleish (Windsor), 65, of Leamington, passed away suddenly in British Columbia on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Her unexpected passing has left her family shocked and heartbroken.
Patricia has been reunited with her youngest child, the late Eddie Mailhiot (1993). She will be missed deeply by her remaining children, Stephanie Bachmeier and Carrie (Jack) Delaney, her grandchildren JJ and Regan Bachmeier, Jaylynn and Jaxon Delaney. Predeceased by her parents Clement and Margaret Windsor. Survived by her sisters Cheryle (Dave) Dibbley, Dianne (the late Garry) Noble, the late Ellice (Rick) Drummond, Jackie (John) Tiborcz and brother Bill (Liz) Windsor. Loving aunt to many nieces and nephews.
Cremation has taken place.
Family and friends are welcome to join a celebration of Patricia’s life at the Comber Legion on Sunday, May 7, 2023 from 1-4 p.m.
The Kyiv Home is nearing completion and is almost ready to house its first refugee family from Ukraine.
“We are just blown away by the support of the community,” said Cottam United Church
Pastor Kim Gilliland at the home Sunday afternoon.
Community partners, including Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers and council, church members and those who have donated supplies, funds and volunteered many work hours were given a
glimpse inside the newly built home on Belleview Drive in the Woodbridge Estates area in Cottam.
The home interior was completed with donated furniture and appliances already in place for the first family to arrive. The exterior is set to be finished with siding by April 10, according to project organizer Jennifer Baggio.
The list of contributions of material and labour is lengthy, with local companies and donors chipping in everything from flooring, plumbing, cabinetry, furniture and more.
The transitional home for refugees seeking shelter, she said, has been the dream of her father Gary Taveirne and it will now eventually serve two families – one on the main floor and one downstairs — both with their own entrances,
kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms.
The Taveirne family had teamed up with Cottam United Church for the fundraising of the project with the initial hopes of raising $250,000.
BK Cornerstone then donated their services as general contractor for the build, along with many other local companies offering services or material.
Baggio said final numbers are still being tallied but a small portion of the home is expected to be mortgaged with a committee from the church overseeing the project moving forward.
The group is working through the Ukrainian National Federation for the vetting and approval of families, and one family is already in Canada waiting to take up residence in the new home, she said.
Plans for a ribbon cutting ceremony will be held mid-April following completion, she noted.
More information on the Kyiv Home Project can be found by visiting kyivhomeproject.com
Erie Shores Toastmasters is hosting an open house Wednesday, April 12 at Leamington Library. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the meeting begins at 6:30.
The public is invited to attend the open house to meet the members and hear guest speaker Sherry Stahl.
Sherry grew up in a drag racing family. Currently, she’s a radio and podcast host on joyradio. ca as well as the author of two books. She will share ways to improve your speaking and communication skills.
For more info or to RSVP, email erieshorestm@yahoo.com.
Auction - Consignment
Legacy Auction
Dave McCormick
Auctioneer
219 Talbot St W, Leamington 519-322-4427
legacyauctions@gmail.com legacyautions.net
Commercial Photography
Mel & Jer Creative
Melissa Bartel
Photographer
24 Oak St E, Unit 12, Leamington 289-439-7751 melandjercreative@outlook.com
Commercial Videography
Mel & Jer Creative
Jeremy Bartel
Videographer
24 Oak St E, Unit 12, Leamington 289-439-7751
melandjercreative@outlook.com
Financial Planning
MBI Financial
Lisa Dominguez, CFP®, CEA, B.Comm
197 Talbot St. W. Unit #303 Leamington 519-322-5900
County Cooling & Heating
Cormier
Locksmiths
Essex County Locksmiths
Jeff Gates Professional Locksmith
Serving Leamington & Kingsville 519-971-8777
www.essexcountylocksmiths.ca
@EssexCountyLocksmiths
Real Estate
Jump Realty
Shannon Matheson Sales Representative
519-329-7291
shannon@jumprealty.ca
www.jumprealty.ca
@shannonmathesonrealtor
Real Estate
H. Featherstone Realty Inc.
Brandon Bergen Sales Representative
17 Erie St. N., Leamington 519-566-3333 brandonjbergen98@gmail.com
Slater
141 Main St. E., Kingsville 519-796-3102 www.jumprealty.ca
@tashaslater
Certified Financial Planner 75 Erie St. S., Unit 305, Leamington 519-322-0245
ldominguez@mbifinancial.com
Immigration Services
de Witt Immigration
Ellen de Witt, RCIC
Immigration Consultant
33 Princess St., Unit 340, Leamington 519-969-6789
info@dewittimmigration.com
Real Estate
Jump Realty
Raine Schiefer
Realtor®
185 Erie St S, Leamington 519-919-1532
lifeEn-marketingerieglen@rosewoodseniorliving.ca @rosewoodseniorliving.ca Rosewood Erie Glen Retirement Melissa Loeppgy Life Enrichment/Marketing Manager 185 Erie St S, Leamington 519-791-3032 susanliovas@yahoo.ca Royal LePage Real Estate Susan Liovas Sales Representative Refer to The Professionals weekly for a directory of experts in our community. This user-friendly directory highlights all the key information you need - address, phone number, website and social media. These are the faces behind some of our local businesses. Make sure you don’t get missed! Advertising alongside your direct competitors is a proven way to increase sales and boost profits. The Professionals combines all of your advertising methods in one, driving customers towards your website and social media platforms. Very affordable! Just one qualified lead may cover your costs for the entire year! Get increased market coverage with over 665,000 papers printed per year. Advertisers Let them know you’re a pro! Contact sun@southpointsun.ca to reserve your space. 194 Talbot St. E., Unit #2, Leamington 519.398.9098 www.southpointsun.ca Serving Windsor, Essex & Kent County 519-329-4416 outonalimbtreeservices.weebly.com Out On A Limb Dave Schmidt Tree Trimming & Removal
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
A message from a romantic partner or business associate could come this week, Aries. Keep a watchful eye on your email inbox or the regular mail.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, this week you can expect to have an interesting conversation with someone about a topic you’re fond of discussing. It could spark a new friendship.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
You likely will have a lot of physical and mental energy this week, Gemini. Figure out a project you can stand behind and put that energy to good use.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Keep an eye on the front door, Cancer. A delivery may be coming your way in the next few days. It’s not something you ordered, but could be a gift.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, you could use a diversion this week. When a friend seeks your company, this can be the perfect way to direct your mind somewhere else.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, financial paperwork could take up some of your time in the days to come. It’s a necessary evil to keep things on track. Seek help from someone else if you get frustrated.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Speaking with someone else on a fascinating subject triggers your curious side, Libra. You may want to take a class or pursue this subject in another way.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Your emotions might get the better of you this week, Scorpio. Try to focus attention onto something that doesn’t trigger negative feelings. Distraction could be the key.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Stimulating social occasions are what you need right now, Sagittarius. Such get-togethers will introduce you to new people and new ideas that can inspire.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, this week you have an opportunity to impress others and get them talking, likely changing their opinions of you. Make every effort to win others over.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
It’s important to keep in touch with friends even if they have moved away, Aquarius. Phone calls, texts and video chats can bridge the gap created by physical distance.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, tally up your investments because they could be worth more than you think, especially if you are invested in real estate.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
APRIL 2 - Pedro Pascal, Actor (48)
APRIL 3 - Paris Jackson, Model (25)
APRIL 4 - Robert Downey, Jr., Actor (58)
APRIL 5 Pharrell Williams, Producer (50)
APRIL 6 - Peyton List, Actress (25)
APRIL 7 - Russell Crowe, Actor
APRIL 8 - Skai Jackson, Actress
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to letter writing.
ANSWERS ON PAGE 18
Check
EXPANDED SHOWROOM
UPCOMING COIN AUCTION - Saturday April 15
Check our website for further details - Photos to be added soon!
UPCOMING CONSIGNMENT AUCTION
Saturday April 29 @ the Harrow Portuguese Club Tools, Guns, Outdoor Equipment, Antique Collectibles. Consign your unwanted firearms with us prior to April 25
FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2023 AUCTION PROGRAM
Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items For Auction or Possible Purchase
CONTACT: SWITZER’S AUCTION
Toll-Free 1-800-694-2609
Email Us @ sales@switzersauction.com Visit Us @ www.switzersauction.com
IRWIN PLUMBINGResidential rough-ins and repairs. Starting April 2nd 519-825-7245 will be changing to 519-324-2202.
A text is preferred if capable. Call if not. ja6-tf
ELECTROLUX SALES & SERVICE: Complete line of vacuums and shampooers/ floor polishers. Will provide free estimate on Central Vac installations. Contact Dan Bailey. 519-825-7698. tf
ZEN PETS GROOMING -
CPPS Certified Groomer in Leamington. 14 years experience. For all your pet grooming needs, please call or text 519-564-9620 or message me on Facebook.
MELROSE MANOR, LEAMINGTON - 2 bdrm apartment (2nd floor), $1,800 per month includes fridge, stove, dishwasher, washer & dryer. Available May 1 or possibly sooner. Call 519-325-8220. mr8-tfn
Upscale and affordable apartments for rent in Leamington’s ONLY waterfront rental apartment building, overlooking Leamington Marina and Park. Minutes from the beach.
Amenities include:
•Library and social rooms
•Coin-less Laundry
•Beautiful lobby
•Underground parking available
Ready by Easter 519-329-3188
LOOKING TO BUY OLDER GIBSON OR FENDER GUITAR. Call or text 519567-4446. ja19-tfn
LOCAL COLLECTOR LOOKING TO BUYvintage toys: tin-litho battery or wind-ups, diecast toys, Hot Wheels, Dinky, Corgi and more. Call Todd for a fair and free estimate 519-982-8590. mr29-ap12
VINTAGE GOLF CLUBSVintage wood head woods, irons with wood or metal shafts. Also golf bags. Very old only please. Call or text 519-567-4446. tfn
SELLING YOUR GOLD SILVER JEWELRY ALL Coins? ** Locally Owned* 55 Years of “SATISIFIED CUSTOMERS” FREE ESTIMATES NO OBLIGATION
Thursday, April 13 at Unico Centre, 37 Beech St., Kingsville. Saturday, April 15 at Roma Club, 19 Seacliff Dr. E., Leamington. Private Appointments FREE ESTIMATES Buying + Selling - ALL Gold + Silver JEWELRY Even some Costume Any Gold (even teeth) **OLD COINS Canada USA World War Costume
CONFIDENTIAL PREPARATION OF personal, senior and farm income tax returns. Regular or E-filing. Pickup and delivery as well as contact free service available. Over 35 year’s experience. Call Tim Mousseau 519-9752414 or toll free 1-855-9752414. fe1-ap19
ITEMS FOR SALE - highend treadmill, recumbent bike, 2 computer tables, 2 desks, 2 large coffee tables, assortment of small tables, kitchen table w/4 chairs & hidden leaf, wine racks, sofa bed, all in mint condition. Offers accepted. Call 519816-9706. ap5-12
2078 Talbot Road, Kingsville
Seasonal Full Time & Seasonal Part Time STARTING END OF APRIL Flexible Hours. Positions for Class D License. Positions for Class AZ License. Retirees welcome. Apply by phone 519-326-8840 ext. 3 Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
PINNACLE ACRES REQUIRES Full time greenhouse general labourers. $15.50/hr 50+ hours, 7 days/wk. Must be available Saturday & Sunday. Work site: 333 County Rd 18, Leamington ON, rural setting, must have own transportation. Crop maintenance and harvesting, other duties as required. Must be able to lift a minimum of 40lbs on a repetitive basis, fast paced environment, strong work ethic, punctual, reliable. No experience or education required. Please apply via email: careers@pinnacle-acres.com de4-tf
COVID-19 certified & compliant. mr1-tfn
•Outdoor balconies with water or city views
•FREE utilities
•Secured access and 24-7 onsite management
Call Mike & Kevin for leasing information 519-326-8819 or visit www.ska-apartmentrentals.com
SCRAMBLE ANSWER DRAFTS
Jewelry War Medals Windup Watches Mintsets House Locally Owned* 55 Years of “SATISIFIED CUSTOMERS” Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 519818-1805. ap5-12
Flags across the country will be lowered to halfstaff from sunrise to sunset on April 9 in observance of Vimy Ridge Day. The day honours and remembers those who fought during the fierce Battle of Vimy Ridge, a defining moment for Canada as soldiers from several divisions battled together.
One hundred and six years ago, on April 9, 1917, at 5:30 a.m. French local time, 1,000 siege guns and hundreds of machine guns opened fire on Vimy Ridge and approximately 15,000 Canadians went over the top following a lifting barrage.
By the end of the day, most of the ridge was tak-
en. By April 12 the ridge was completely in Canadian hands.
Four Victoria Crosses were awarded for valour “in the presence of the enemy”. Only one of those men survived the war. The numbers are staggering: 3,598 Canadians died, 7,004 were wounded.
Five brave soldiers
from this area were Killed in Action at Vimy Ridge:
• April 9, 1917 - Pte. Arthur Ernest Beattie, age 34, 4th Battalion (Leamington).
• April 9, 1917 - Lt. Thomas Newell Vickers, age 28, 78th Battalion (Wheatley).
• April 9, 1917 - Pte. Lorne Gordon Lane, age 19, 26th Battalion (Ruth-
Several businesses and destinations within the Southpoint Sun readership area won awards in last week’s Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) Best of Windsor-Essex Awards. The announcement of the winners came on Wednesday, March 29
through a YouTube livestream.
“Now in its 8th edition, the Best of Windsor Essex Awards celebrate the best things to see and do in Windsor-Essex and allow the voters to have a voice to what we showcase as some of the best of our region” said Gordon Orr,
CEO of Tourism Windsor Essex. “Even though we saw over 8,000 votes come through the campaign, some of the awards come down to a couple dozen of votes between first and second place, truly demonstrating the interest in residents to celebrate their favourite places to
President Bob Bell welcomed 29 members out to play cards on Tuesday, March 28.
Scores in Bridge: Jean Kuipers 4950, Gillian Pinkney 4210, Carolyn Brown 3760. Euchre: Bill Fielding 89, Sharie Blythe 87, Leighton Horner 86. Sharie Blyth, Dave Patterson and Willy Fittler tied for most lone hands at 4. Thanks to Dave Snider for providing the daily dose of chocolate! Thanks to Carrie Schultz, Marie Geeves and Clare Shaw from the Euchre group
for snacks to go with Coffee & Conversation. March went out like a soggy duck, so numbers were down! President Bob Bell welcomed 24 die-hard members out to play cards on Friday, March 31.
Scores in Bridge: Bert Patrick 2990, Mac Stanley 2120, Mandy Hric 1730.
Euchre: Robert Boose 97; John Gerhardt 86, Bob Bell 83. Robert Boose had most lone hands at 3.
Pepper: Bill Fielding 316, Rose Foldesi 260 and Sue Girardin 260, Moe Han-
sen 240. Most peppers was Bill Fielding with 8.
As the hall is closed April 7, the group celebrated April birthdays on Friday. Roy Trowell contributed to the cake purchase but wasn’t able to be there. He certainly was pleasantly surprised when the cake came to him. Those celebrating with Roy were Sharie Blythe, Robert Boose, Rose Foldesi and Dave Snider. The card players will be having pizza on Tuesday. Hope everyone was able to sign up.
eat, drink, shop, play and stay in Windsor-Essex.”
Among the local winners are Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens for Best Family Friendly Attraction, Open Streets Kingsville for Best Street Event, Pelee Island Winery for Best Winery Experience, Willow Tree Market for
ven). Received the Military Medal, an award for acts of bravery on the recommendation of a Commander-in-Chief in the field.
• April 11, 1917 - Pte. Ronald Ray Morris, age 23, 20th Battalion (Leamington).
• April 15, 1917 - Pte. Roy Henry Lumley, age 23, 21st Battalion (Wheat-
ley). Died of Wounds. On April 9th we honour not only these soldiers, but all the people who have served and/or died for our country. It is a debt that can never be repaid, but we, and our children and our children’s children, will always remember and never forget.
Best Farmers’ Market, Jack’s Gastropub for Best Lake-to-Plate Dining, Oxley Estate Winery for Best Patio, OG Pizza for Best Pizza Pie, El Diablo for Best World Eats, Point Pelee National Park for Best Beach, Best Birding Hub and Best Photo Opp in the County, Kingsville
Golf and Country Club for Best Golf Course, Magnolia Ranch for Best Bed and Breakfast, State of Health for Best Spa or Wellness Resort, Cindy’s Home and Garden for Best Boutique Shop, and The Grove Hotel for Best Unique Stay.
On Sunday, April 2 at 12:41 p.m., members of the Leamington Detachment OPP responded to a report of a possible impaired driver that was refused service at the Leamington Beer Store. The driver left the store operating a motor vehicle.
Police patrolled the area and located the vehicle on Elliott Street. While speaking with the driver, officers observed obvious signs of impairment
and was transported to the OPP detachment for further testing.
As a result, a 35-year-old Leamington man has been charged with Operation while impaired - alcohol and Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus).
A 90-day Administrative Driver’s Licence Suspension (A.D.L.S.) and 7-day Vehicle Impoundment was initiated as per statute.
Cedar Beach Drug Store, owned by Red Morris, offered drugs, toiletries, china and souvenirs for sale as well as providing a luncheon menu. Speed boat rides were available from the Cedar Beach Drug Store for 50 cents a ride for summer visitors renting a cabin or for cottagers not owning a boat.
The boats could be taken through the placid canal or out into the rougher waters of Lake Erie. This photograph of an unidentified family, standing outside the Cedar Beach Drug Store, was taken in the late 1940s or early 1950s.
This is a photo of the Bible Studies class at Gosfield Area Public School, spring 1963. Back row: Tony Dekold, Richard Melton, Terry Hodgins, Richard Dalton. Front row: Bob Swaddling, Don Sebele, Kim Lewis, Henry Reimer. kingsvillearchives@gmail.com
The Leamington Legion Midgets have won their fourth Ontario Minor Hockey Association championship in the past five years, with a 3-2 win over Richmond Hill Saturday night at Leamington Arena. A sizzling slapshot by defenceman John Riley bounced into the Richmond Hill net midway through the 10-minute overtime in Game 5 of the OMHA Midget AA final. Ken Cobby and Dave Omstead scored the other Leamington goals. Colin Wood, who played for Leamington last year before moving to Richmond Hill, picked up both goals for the visitors. The brilliant goaltending of John Moore was one of the major factors in the outcome.
Leamington Johnston Construction Atom All-Stars captured the consolation of a tournament in Wallaceburg over the weekend. Team members include Greg Sellon, Tom Drummond, Brian Collison, Duff McDonald, Norm Tober, Jay Pepper, Steve Impens, Chris Heyens, Paul Simpson, Dave Mickle, Rick Butler, Rick Vlodarchyk, Ron Robinson, Paul Woelk and Cody Boschmann. Glenn Johnston is the coach and Don Nicholson the manager.
underbrush taken out. The entire property will always be held in trust by the Jack Miner Foundation and never sold but be a natural park for humanity and the birds.
Due to mercury contamination, the federal government has banned all commercial fishing on the north shore of Lake Erie, which includes Kingsville and its fleet of 24 tugs. The indefinite ban includes the sale and export of all perch and pickerel. It is also understood that bass and smelt were seized at the border yesterday. Harold Julien, manager of the Kingsville Fishermen’s Co-op, stated last night that the situation was an unholy mess. Some 200 people in town are involved in the fishing industry. Dr. R.R. Logie of Ottawa, assistant deputy minister of the federal department, said samples of pickerel taken from Lake Erie showed serious mercury contamination.
April 1993 - Leamington company Universal Burner Controls built this gas-fired furnace for a Windsor company. It was used to heat metal dies for repairs. The output from this furnace is enough to heat 60 homes and can reach temperatures of up to 1,700 degrees Fahrenheit. Its creators are (l-r) Max Raffoul, Max Youssef and John George.
April 1993 - The Easter Bunny made a special appearance on Friday at the Wheatley Optimist headquarters at the Yacht Club building and dozens of young people searched the grounds looking for all the eggs they could get, hoping one or two would be worth special prizes. Nicole Simpson was proud of her effort and beamed a big smile in anticipation of holding a prize winning egg.
Submarine cycling - Ditches rose foot after foot following the Thursday evening rainfall and these young lads wasted no time inventing a new game, “submarine cycling”. If nothing else, it’s a quick way to wash a ten-speed bicycle!
Eleven-year-old Karen-Ann Grolman of RR2 Leamington, won the competition for Grades 1 to 6 in the Ontario finals of the Royal Canadian Legion’s 15th annual Public Speaking Contest held at Ottawa Saturday. Karen-Ann is a Grade 6 pupil at Ridge Public School.
Leamington is the only logical location for a proposed new home for the aged to serve Essex County, Town Council agreed Monday night. Leamington is one of seven sites being considered by the county. Councillor Glenn Parker said there was only one place to consider, otherwise they are wasting their money.
St. Mikes captured the playoff championship of the Leamington Junior Basketball League recently. Team members include Reinold Kosciuw, Mike Mastronardi, Frank Ehrenreich, Ed Mayer, Al Bachmeier, Nick Lutsch, Frank Mastronardi, Augustino Ingratta and Tony Sleiman. The coach is Gerhardt Krahn.
From the Kingsville Reporter
April 2, 1970
The trustees of the Jack Miner Migratory Bird Foundation have announced the purchase of the William Kennedy farm on the corner of Division Road and Third Concession, leading to the Jack Miner home and sanctuary. The acreage consists of 102 acres. Mr. Kennedy retains the few acres on the corner, on which is located the family home and farm buildings. The money for the purchase came from a substantial gift from the family of the late Sarah M. Scaife of the United States. The stately maple grove of between 100 and 200 hard maple trees is all being preserved and the
The Essex Atom All-Star team will compete in the Easter Bunny Tournament this weekend at Windsor Arena. Also appearing at the tournament will be Bozo the Clown of Channel 9. The team consists of Marc Arner, Bobby Stenger, Eddie Thiessen, David Scott and Terry Gee, all of Kingsville. In addition the team has Dwayne Mathys, Dave Ippinghouse, Pat Dumouchelle, David Pringle, Kevin Shepley, Jamie Tapping, Dale Flood, Jimmy McPherson, Ray Hammond, Glen Meloche, Scott Bowie, Steve Elliott and Jamie Hamelin, all of Essex. Charles Flood is the team manager and coaches are Ed Thiessen and Iggy Arner.
From the Wheatley Journal
March 28, 1990
Erin and Ryan Stirling, who are members of the London Skating Club, started skating at the age of four and are presently nine and 11 years old. The pair are All Ontario champions, Western Ontario champions and Great Lakes champions. They will be guest skaters at the Wheatley Ice Show this weekend.
Renwick Pride Seed finished their 1989-90 hockey season in the consolation game against Couture Construction, losing 2-1. The team’s only goal was scored by Ryan Kroeker. Stats for the season saw Ryan Kroeker on top with 44 points. Christopher Harrop was second in scoring with 29 points. Steven Krueger was third with 28.
The skaters from Wheatley Figure Skating Club participated in the Sarnia competition recently. Medal winners were Tanya Montminy, Lynne Segedin, Marcie Lougheed and Michelle Bedore, while the other girls received ribbons for their efforts. Teammates included Jennifer Tiborcz, Janet Reid, Michele Demelo, Jennifer Taylor, Lindsay Gibbons, Tracey White, Rosemarie Ball and Lindsay Wiper.
A large crowd of 1,201 fans attended the first contest of the West Conference finals at the Highbury Canco arena last Thursday night, March 30.
The mood was electrifying prior to the pre-game ceremonies and the game itself as fans of both teams gathered in the venue. By the time the first period had ended it had become an intense affair with the Flyers doing all the scoring.
Leamington won the opener 4-0.
They followed that up with a 2-1 win Friday night in St. Marys, and a 3-1 victory at home Sunday gave them a commanding lead going into Tuesday’s game four in St. Marys (game results not available at press time).
Head coach Dale Mitchell was pleased with the Flyers’ effort in the opener.
“We had a really good first period. We played a structured game and put ourselves in a good position early in the game,” he said. “It was great seeing our players buying into the structure and many times sacrificing offense to make sure we got pucks deep in their zone.”
Thursday’s opening minutes were tentative for both teams but it was the Flyers who broke the ice and got on the board with the important first tally.
Jack Cotter set up Kale Couvillon’s shot on net.
Adrian Bosev gunned the rebound past Lincs’ starter Matteo Lalama at 7:32.
Not long after that Leamington upped their lead by applying some pressure as Billy Van Sumeren and Thomas
Grossi tried getting the puck past Lalama before Hayden Reid flicked a rebound into the net while on the doorstep.
From the ensuing faceoff, Ryan MacPherson and Owen Holmes hooked passes with Connor MacPherson whose right lane blast handcuffed Lalama to make it 3-0.
The highlight of the contest was the goaltending of Bryce Walcarius and the tremendous defensive effort by the entire Flyers team. It was most evident when the Lincolns lifted Lalama for an extra attacker during the final three minutes.
At 19:52 the Flyers put the final tally on the board as Walcarius and Koen Taves got the puck to Adrian Bosev, who went on a two-on-nobody break and tabbed an empty-net goal for the 4-0 victory.
Games two and three of the best of seven west finals between the Flyers and St. Marys were as entertaining as game one but the results have left the Lincolns on the cusp of being eliminated from playoffs.
The Flyers nipped the Lincolns 2-1 on Friday night in St. Marys and then at home on Sunday looked like they were not even interested in the contest until the third period. The Flyers rallied from a 1-0 deficit to win 3-1.
Sunday at home in front of 1,069 fans the Flyers played defense superbly but their offensive game looked as though it was not in gear for two periods.
Once again the Lincs grabbed a 1-0 lead — this time 16 seconds into the second, but Flyers’ goal-
ie Bryce Walcarius closed the door afterward.
A three-goal third enabled Leamington to grab a 3-0 series lead as Connor MacPherson connected on a powerplay then Billy
Van Sumeren jammed the eventual game-winner at 13:12.
With Lincs’ goalie Lalama pulled for an extra-attacker in the final two minutes, Trevor LaRue
The Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL) has announced their Western Conference award winners and the Leamington Flyers are once again well represented.
Connor MacPherson has received the CHOK Player of the Year MVP Award and was named a first team all-star.
The second year forward says it’s a great honour.
“Being named MVP was something I never expected,” MacPherson said. “I’m grateful the Flyers have given me a place to play the last two seasons and helped me
tabbed an empty-net goal to seal the victory and kept the Flyers record perfect in playoffs.
Bryce Walcarius stopped 15 of 16 shots and Lalama handled 23 of 25.
grow as a player and a person.”
“Connor being named MVP is an awesome accomplishment for him,” Flyers head coach Dale Mitchell added. “In a year when he battled through a lot more physicality, he was able to persevere and have a tremendous season.”
Ryan MacPherson is the Kevin McIntosh Award winner for best defensive forward and goaltender
Bryce Walcarius has been named a first team all-star.
Walcarius and goaltender Boe
Piroski also received the Roy Caley Award for lowest team goals
Schedule Game 4: results not available at press time.
If necessary: Game 5: Thurs. Apr. 6
Game 6: Sat. Apr. 8 Game 7: Mon. Apr. 10
against average.
“Ryan and Bryce are very well deserving as well,” Mitchell said. “With all the hard work they put in this year, it’s exciting to see them recognized with these honours.”
Connor finished with 28 goals and 35 assists for 63 points to lead the Flyers in scoring this year, while Ryan potted 25 goals and 36 assists for 61 points and won over 62% of his faceoffs.
Walcarius had 20 wins with a 2.23 goals against average and a 0.911 save percentage to go along with four shutouts.
Sharks playoff game is no place for a nervous person or an early riser.
After dropping game 5 in Lakeshore on Tuesday night 5-3, the Sharks found themselves on the brink at home Wednesday night, March 29 to avoid the end of their season.
They responded with a near perfect game, carrying a 3-1 lead into the third period. Despite outworking and outplaying the visitors, the lead would twice evaporate and result in another sudden victory outcome as regulation time ended tied at four, setting up a grueling overtime battle.
After 145 minutes and 32 seconds, Lakeshore would notch the game winner in the fifth overtime period. After a 7:30 start, the finish would not happen until 12:47 a.m. Thursday morning. The game time would rank
with the fifth longest NHL game and the sixth longest junior hockey game in Canada (Wikipedia). Very few faithful fans left early, sitting on the edge of their seats.
The Sharks would fire 100 shots on net with the Sharks goaltender Ethan Handley facing 92. His best saves would occur during the overtime. Several times he would miraculously keep the puck out while everyone in the building thought it was a sure-fire end to the game.
Tuesday night the Sharks would play one goal catchup throughout the night before Lakeshore sealed the victory with an insurance marker in the third. Handley would again back stop the Sharks and help them weather a first period surge by the home team, ending the game with 31 saves. Braedon Caetano, Blake McNally and Trent Amaro would each dent
the twine, with assists to Caetano, Amaro, Kyle Green, Sylvain Lessard, Matt Carvalho and Josh Chauvin.
Wednesday night Caetano and Jak Thiessen each potted two, with assists to Matt Carvalho (3), Trent Amaro (2), Caetano, Ryan Cronheimer and
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Jaydon Ferguson adding singles.
Coach Josh Carnevale, while obviously disappointed in the outcome, “is proud of the entire room.” He has a special thanks to his three overagers, Matt Carvalho, Kristian Pelling and Trent Amaro, “who played their
hearts out.” Adding, “our young defence and inexperienced defence grew and developed so much.”
He is proud that “all in all we endured a very successful season, most wins since 2007.”
The Sharks organization would like to thank their fans, sponsors and
The Southpoint Stars U11 local league team came from behind to win the U11 Tier 2 championship in exciting fashion on Sunday, April 2 at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre.
Southpoint had advanced to the final with a 5-1 win over Lakeshore Blue on Sunday morning,
while the Chatham-Kent Crush Black squad had defeated Sun County Orange in their semi-final.
The Crush jumped to a 2-0 lead and looked to be in control of the final game on Sunday, but the Stars came back with a goal in the second period by Taylor Bartel and one early in the third by Ma-
randa Derksen to tie the game.
The five minute threeon-three overtime solved nothing before the shootout finally determined a champion.
Five shooters for each side took part, with each team scoring once among the initial three shooters.
volunteers. The organization could not survive without the community support. Hats off to the coaching staff, support staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes, and manager Thomas Grubb who continually recruits talent to provide a great on-ice product.
With the shootout tied at one goal apiece, Sophia Ketler won it for Southpoint with a wrister to the far corner.
Aubrey Robinson stood tall in the Southpoint net to give her team a chance to win and thwarted fourof-five Chatham shooters in the shootout.
The Essex Southpoint U13 hockey team travelled to Whitby this past weekend to compete in the OMHA ‘A’ Provincial Championship tournament and did not disappoint, coming away as Ontario champions for the second straight year.
On Friday afternoon, their first opponent was the Burlington Eagles, whom they handily defeated 13-0 in a lopsided affair. JoJo McLeod and Lucas O’Neil paced the attack each scoring a hat trick, while Ben Liebrock potted a pair. Nathan Mariuz, Nash Fuerth, Austin Goudie, AJ Youssef and Kayden Cook added one each. Kevin Ondic got the shutout.
Next up were the Markham Waxers and the ESP squad kept the heat on posting a 9-2 victory. Youssef was Johnny on the spot in this game, banging in four goals from in tight. Mariuz notched a pair, while Fuerth, Tyler Thomas and Goudie rounded out the scoring. Trent Chevalier earned the win in goal.
The two big wins — combined with goal dif-
ferential — sent ESP to the quarterfinals where they faced off against the Milton Winterhawks.
Despite badly outplaying and outshooting the Winterhawks, the game remained scoreless until two minutes into the final frame when Goudie slipped a pass to Youssef behind the net and he sent it out front to the slot where Fuerth one-timed his shot five-hole to get on the board.
Midway through the third, while on the power play, Fuerth passed back to Owen Derksen at the line and his hard wrist shot beat their goalie low blocker.
Milton scored with 2:42 left while shorthanded, but 30 seconds later Derksen kept the puck in at the line and hit Brayden Foster fired in his own rebound to regain the two goal margin.
With under a minute to play, Cook broke up an offensive rush and fired the puck the length of the ice into an empty net to seal the 4-1 win. Ondic earned the win in the contest.
On Sunday morning, ESP was up against the
Barrie Colts in the semi-final.
ESP dominated play and shots and had two goals disallowed, but with about two minutes left in the opening period, Thomas sent the puck back to Cook at the line and he ripped his shot on net. O’Neil found the rebound and banged it through the wickets to open the scoring.
Next, with 5:58 to play in the second, Fuerth carried the puck in and around the net and slid a pass out to the slot where Derksen ripped his wrist shot top shelf to increase the lead to two.
With 12:23 left to play, Derksen fired his shot on net where Youssef tipped the puck to Goudie and he slipped it five-hole to go up by three.
Barrie scored on a power play two minutes later, but that was as close as they would come in an ESP 3-1 victory. Chevalier, between the pipes, got the win. This set up a matchup in the final against a strong team, Centre Wellington Fusion.
In a back-and-forth game, ESP found them-
selves trailing after giving up a powerplay goal late in the first.
Two minutes into the second, the Fusion scored again to double their lead.
ESP’s intensity and determination showed from this point on.
In the middle frame, Lucas O’Neil found the puck in a scramble in the slot and snapped his shot low blocker to get on the board.
Just 12 seconds later,
After going 21-0 in Bluewater League play and 4-0 in the round robin playoff series, the Essex-Southpoint U11 A Hockey Club (ESP) advanced to the OMHA Championship Tournament in Whitby March 31-April 2.
In the U11 ‘A’ division there were 12 teams from across southern Ontario divided into four pools.
In pool play, ESP defeated New Hamburg 6-0 and lost 4-3 to Orillia. Those results left them second in their pool.
In the play-in round, ESP defeated Whitby 12-0 and in the quarter-finals they defeated Haldimand 6-2.
On Championship Sunday there were only four of the 12 teams remaining. In the semi-finals, ESP defeated Milton 5-0.
In the championship game, ESP dominated Owen Sound 8-3 to earn the prestigious Red Hats.
In six games, the tandem of Keegan Pope and Owen Tavares recorded three shoutouts and allowed only nine goals.
The strong defence of Brody Church, Russell Colenutt, Ashton Drozdz, Brady George and Ada McKeen kept the opposition to the outside and al-
lowed very few shots on net. The forwards dominated the opposition with constant pressure, tapeto-tape passes and rocket shots, scoring a total of 40 goals in six games.
All team members were in on the scoring: Conner Blain (eight goals, five assists), Brody Church (seven goals, five assists), Christian Rutgers (six goals, seven assists), Drake Pernal (four goals, four assists), Eddie Zieba (four goals, four assists), Asher Grossi (three goals, three assists), Russell Colenutt (two goals, five assists), Alex Antonios (two goals, four assists), Carter Demant (two goals, one assist), Ben MacQuarrie (one goal, two assists), Zander Cook (one goal, one assist), Ada McKeen (three assists), Lyle Fleming (one assist), Ashton Drozdz (one assist), Brady George (one assist).
The team has had an outstanding year, earning trophies and banners. They won the OMHA Championship (Whitby), the International Silver Stick (Sarnia), PlayStation Platinum Cup (Toronto), Boston Pizza Cup (St. Thomas) and the Bluewater League title, playing as a team winning the battles along the boards,
tenacious forechecking, end-to-end rushes and tape-to-tape passes. In the process, they scored a total of 501 goals with
a record of 70 wins, five losses and two ties. The coaching staff of Donnie Church, Ryan Rutgers, Kevin Cook,
Fuerth made a bee line for the net, ripping his shot, and Goudie slammed in the rebound to even the score.
A minute later, JoJo McLeod sent a stretch pass to Ben Liebrock and his hard shot hit the post but Derek Dunn found it and beat the goalie short side to take the lead.
As time ran out in the second, Jonathan Recker stopped the puck at the line, skated in wide left
Kevin Gale, goalie coach Jim Quick, manager Dave Demant, owner Lucas George and videographer Chloe Blain provided the
and zipped a pass crosscrease to Liebrock who tipped it home.
In the third period, it was all ESP as Youssef and Liebrock finished off the scoring for a 6-2 victory. Kevin Ondic earned the win between the pipes.
ESP now enters the OHF Championships April 21-23 in Leamington as the reigning OMHA champion.
team with the tools necessary to accomplish their championship.
Zander Rutgers, Ryan Rutgers, Connor Blain, Drake Pernal, Zander Cook, Eddie Zieba, Ben Mac Quarrie, Carter Demant, Christian Rutgers, Lyle Fleming, Ada McKeen, Russell Colenutt. Kneeling: Owen Tavares, Keegan Pope, Chloe Blain.
By C. Scott Holland
The Leamington Senior Men’s Hockey League
held their championship game on April 1 and it was a thriller, with Ga-
briele Flooring and Furniture taking the 2022-2023 championship with an
exciting overtime victory over Reid Funeral Home.
Chrysler 9 Gualtieri 7
In a fun contest before the finals, Leamington Chrysler edged Gualtieri Farms.
For Gualtieri, Mason Gow and Eric Prudence had pairs, while Calyn Kir, Marshall Fritsch and Pat Sonoski fired one apiece.
For Chrysler, Andy Anthony netted four goals, Mitch Prudence fired two, and Chris Babkirk, Brandon Kubis and Derrick Mastromatteo flicked one each.
Gabriele 4 Reid 3
It was a sustained battle between two teams that ended in dramatic fashion as Gabriele Home and Floor won the title in the opening minute of overtime. Reid Funeral Home’s Kyle Quick tabbed two and Greg Mastronardi fired one.
Brian Whaley, Ian Faubert and Scott Florence’s tallied one goal each for the champs.
Spencer Neufeld was the hero 34 seconds into OT when he picked off a pass and scored.
