Southpoint Sun - August 2, 2023

EF1 storm batters Lake Erie communities

Parts of Kingsville, Harrow and Colchester are still cleaning up a week after an EF1 downburst hit the southern end of the county on Wednesday, July 26.

The same storm toppled trees along the lakeshore in Leamington.

The storm hit Harrow before 4 pm and quickly travelled to Kingsville and on to Leamington.

Pelee Island was also hard hit, according to reports.

Environment Canada issued an urgent tornado warning on cell phones at 4:01 and followed with another at 4:12, but the storm had already hit Harrow and Kingsville and was bearing down on Leamington as the alerts were sent out.

Power was out in Kingsville for the better part of two days and Harrow for even longer.

Clean-up crews were on site in both communities immediately, helping residents out from under fallen trees.

Several tall pine trees were toppled in Greenhill Cemetery in Kingsville, appearing to be shattered right at the base of the trunk.

Officials from the Northern Tornadoes Project were on scene in Harrow and Kingsville on Thursday and Friday, determining the extent of the storm that produced 145 kph winds here.

Because of the considerable straightforward swath of damage in this area, it was determined that the storm was a downburst event and not a tornado, but still registered at the EF1 level of wind velocity. The storm did produce

the Town of Kingsville for those who need to get rid of branches.

Many mature trees

were lost in the storm, and thousands of dollars in damage was done to homes and vehicles

trees.

2023

This SUV took severe damage from a large tree on Robson Road in Leamington SUN photo

A snapped tree at Mersea Park being examined by a couple of residents. SUN photo by Paul Forman

Two of several tall pines toppled during the storm at Kingsville’s Greenhill Cemetery. SUN photo

an actual tornado in Blenheim about an hour later. Extra yard waste pickup days were issued by

caught under those downed

damage to this home on Queen Street in Kingsville was being tended

photo

This home on Division Street South in Kingsville was the victim of a large tree which uprooted along the boulevard.

photo This majestic old tree on the former Erie Shores Golf Clubhouse property was pulled right out

the ground during the storm SUN photo By Paul Forman

The damage in Kingsville’s Greenhill Cemetery included this tree, which was at least three feet in diameter.

photo

Hogs for Hospice on tap this weekend

By Mark Ribble

The sights and sounds of hundreds of motorcycles will take over the area this coming weekend as the annual Hogs for Hospice weekend happens Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 4-6.

Spokesman for the Hogs Committee, Joe Oswald is eagerly looking forward to yet another big event, which has grown from a mere idea eight years ago to what it is now.

“I often reflect on September of 2015. This was the date of the press conference at Leamington Town Hall where Hogs for Hospice was given birth,” he says. “As 100 motorcycles drove up to Leamington Town Hall to announce this event, who could have dreamed that eight years later, Hogs for Hospice would go from being an event to a movement — certainly not us!”

Community support is what keeps the committee going and of course, the numerous volunteers who hit the ground running.

“We are humbled that our community immediately accepted us and that

they continue to support us,” adds Oswald. “In an ongoing attempt to market the event throughout the year, many people ask us, where is Leamington, Ontario, and the response is simply, Leamington is 3,000 Miles Directly South of Heaven.”

It truly takes a village, and in some cases more than a village, and Oswald and the committee are grateful for all the help they get.

“The true driving force behind this event is our Hogs for Hospice volunteers,” he says. “The Hogs for Hospice Army is 480 strong. As well, we have our beyond generous local corporate sponsors. This event does not exist without the both of them.”

Hogs for Hospice is an organization that is 100 per cent volunteer based.

“Not one person is on the payroll and we are proud to say that,” says Oswald.

A pre-party actually kicks things off on Thursday afternoon at Colchester Bar and Grill, but it’s Friday before Leamington residents will begin to hear the familiar roar of

the engines.

At 5 pm Friday, Seacliff Park opens with vendors, food trucks and the Kinsmen Hog Pen beer garden, followed by Friday night concerts featuring Honeymoon Suite opening for Scott Stapp of Creed.

On Saturday morning, the famous Lions Club pancake breakfast takes place inside the park from 8-10 am, alongside ride registration for the Ride To The Tip, which will depart Seacliff Park at 10:30.

Area residents are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs out along Robson Road to cheer on the hundreds of riders as they make their way to Point Pelee.

New this year, an Iron By The Beach competition will take place in the upper parking lot of Seacliff park between noon and 5 pm on Saturday.

The Hogs for Hospice participants are also invited to Kingsville, where the streets will be closed off for a couple of hours in the afternoon to accomodate all of the bikes.

Freestyle Motocross demonstrations will take place north of the park on

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Seacliff Drive at 12:30 and again at 2:30 pm and 5:00 pm.

Doors will open for the Saturday night concert at 6:30 pm, with A Thousand Horses opening for Country music superstar Jake Owen.

The weekend will continue on Sunday with the Hogs for Hospice Junior Bike Rodeo at 11:30, followed by the adult version of the Bike Rodeo at 1 pm. The freestyle motocross team returns for a show at 2:30 and 5 pm.

Lots of vendors, food and other events will run throughout the weekend as part of the annual festival.

And of course, the Hogs for Hospice 50-50 draw, which sits close to $120,000 at press time, will be growing and growing until the August

11 draw date. For 50-50 tickets or concert tickets, please visit hogsforhospice.com.

Road closures for this weekend

Due to the Hogs for Hospice Rally taking place this weekend, the following road closures will be in place on Friday, August 4, through to and including Sunday, August 6, 2023:

Seacliff Drive West, from Erie Street to Sherk Street, Forest Avenue

Conover Avenue, between Stewart Crescent and Forest Avenue.

Lombardy Lane entrance onto Seacliff Drive West

Local area residents will require proof of address to access closed streets. Resident and emergency service access will be maintained at all times along the event route, and road closures will be managed under the supervision of the Ontario Provincial Police.

Located in the picturesque town of Leamington, on the shores of Lake Erie. Seacliff Manor is conveniently conveniently located near all major shopping and amenities in town, and our in-house shuttle can take you where you need to go.

Seacliff Manor is ready for you to call us home! Don’t miss your opportunity to live in Leamington’s newest retirement residence. Suites are filling up fast, call us today at 519-326-2624 to book your tour.

The Tour to the Tip makes its way along Robson Rd. in 2022.

Sun Parlour Rodeo rides off into sunset the this weekend

By Mark Ribble

It’s been a wild ride for the Pavao family and although one chapter of their lives is coming to a conclusion, they can safely ride off into the sunset knowing how much they’ve helped their beloved community.

The Sun Parlour Rodeo will present its 20th — and final — weekend on August 5 and 6 on the expansive piece of property on County Rd. 18 (4th Concession) they’ve come to be known for.

It all started in 2001 with an idea from the mind of John Pavao and his friends, which had the five Pavao family members and good friend Nelson Carvalho laying out the plans for the event.

Fast forward 22 years (two years were missed during COVID) and the Pavao family is wrapping up the longest standing

rodeo in Ontario with these two shows.

“We’ve had amazing support from the community,” said Stephanie Pavao on behalf of the committee that plans the event. “It’s what I remember as a child.”

For Stephanie Pavao, the rodeo became more than just an annual event to look forward to. She and her siblings have worked hard over the years to make the rodeo happen and she’s met lots of friends along the way.

Rawhide Rodeo, the company that puts on the event, has been there since the beginning.

“Rawhide has really become family to us,” says Stephanie. “Our children are growing up together.”

These bonds and friendships are what make putting on the last show a bittersweet moment for all involved.

“One of our first trick riders the first year now has her daughter performing in this show,” said Stephanie.

This year’s weekend is already sold out, with ticket sales at the four local ticket outlets brisk ever since they went on sale. Stephanie says that they won’t be selling tickets at the gate or online,and encourages those who do have tickets to show up early for good parking and good seating.

“The gates will open at 3 pm for the 6 pm show, and I know people will think that’s early, but we’re encouraging them to come, grab their seats, get some food and settle in for a great show,” she said. “We want to end this last one on a positive note.”

She and her committee promise a great show for

those in attendance and of course, all proceeds go to charity — something they’ve been keying on since day one.

“We are a small but mighty committee that just wanted to make a difference,” she added.

And make a difference, they have.

Erie Shores Health Foundation (Leamington Hospital), W.E. Care for Kids Foundation, The Hospice of Windsor Essex County Inc. – Erie Shores Campus, The Bridge, The Bank Theatre, Ronald McDonald House, Windsor Essex Advocacy Centre, Ivey Eye Canadian Institute for the Blind, Kingsville Minor Baseball and Erie North Shore Storm Hockey have all benefited from the last 19 events and a total of over $800,000 has been distributed.

When that final cowboy takes off his boots on Sunday, August 6, it will spell the end of an era for rodeo in Leamington and the Pavao family can walk away with their heads held high for the great work they’ve done for the community.

Kristin Swayze - DD

A competitor in the steer roping competition has her eye on the prize at the 2022 Sun Parlour Rodeo. SUN archives

MacMaster, Leahy and family bring energy to Seacliff Park

By Mark Ribble

Well over 2,000 music fans descended upon Leamington’s Seacliff Park on Saturday, July 29 as Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy and family put on a show to remember.

The Sunset Amphitheatre was home to a couple of firsts for the popular East Coast music duo and their family.

Their oldest daughter, Mary Frances Leahy, opened the show with

some fantastic fiddling, piano playing and dancing, backed by the MacMaster-Leahy band.

This was the first time Mary Frances has opened for her parents and the crowd was appreciative of her enormous talent.

The 17-year-old wowed those in attendance and seemed right at home on the big stage.

“I’d like to thank my parents for closing for me tonight,” she joked, which drew big applause

from the crowd and an acknowledgment from her famous parents once they took the stage.

The other first for the family occurred midway through Natalie and Donnell’s set when they brought all seven of their children out on the stage to sing, dance and play fiddle.

The youngest Leahy — Maria — then whispered in her father’s ear that she wanted to sing a song. Without hesitation,

Donnell introduced the five-year-old, who came to centre stage and performed her rendition of Singin’ In The Rain, accompanied on piano by Mary Frances. The audience erupted in applause as she finished up.

The talent of the children was on display throughout the night with all of the kids joining in on fiddle and doing some precisely timed step dancing, including 16-year-old son Michael, who also

played guitar and accordion with the band.

Natalie, who had come down with a case of laryngitis, took the microphone and expressed her appreciation for Leamington.

“The kids were so excited to come back to the place with the big builtin pool,” she said, as she pointed toward Lake Erie. She gave credit to John Moran, Michelle Fortier and the entire Bank Theatre organization for the work they put in to make

everything “just right.” They were fresh off a performance the night before in Fredericton, New Brunswick, but that didn’t slow them down as most of the performances were very up-tempo.

Natalie and Donnell and their band put on an energetic show for the folks on the hill, who were up dancing and clapping and the inclusion of the entire family brought a definite down-home feeling to the Sunset stage.

From left are Natalie, Maria, Sadie, Alec, Julia, Clare, Michael, Mary Frances and Donnell.

Donnell Leahy and Natalie MacMaster perfoming. Five-year-old Maria Leahy makes her singing debut with her rendition of Singin’ In The Rain. All seven Leahy siblings dance in unison on the Sunset Amphitheatre stage.

Natalie MacMaster jams with bass player Remi Arsenault.

Mary Frances Leahy opened the show on her fiddle. SUN photos

opinion ~ expression ~ and other musings

They call it the long goodbye

It seems that more and more families are dealing with a dementia diagnosis these days.

In a world where — 30 years ago — the most dreaded diagnosis was cancer, we’re seeing otherwise healthy and intelligent people struggle with the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease or something similar.

My dad was not an educated man, but was one of the smartest men I knew. He was also a pretty level-headed guy who seldom got worked up about anything.

Around his 65th birthday, he had a small stroke that took a lot out of him. Prior to that day, he had been very active in his garden and likely smoked close to a half-pack of cigarettes a day — and quit cold turkey.

He was still pretty active when that occurred and did manage to resume most activity after the short hospital stay — thankfully they got to him in time.

As my parents grew older, they slowed down, as all of us eventually do.

We didn’t really notice anything with my dad after his stroke, other than that he got upset and emotional more easily and was prone to regular anxiety attacks that were treated with medication.

When my mom died in the fall of 2001 from cancer, my dad often looked lonely and seemed to slow down quite a bit, but we really didn’t notice any problems cognitively at that time.

He carried on with his trusty black lab ‘Jet’ by his side, spoiling his best friend by sharing sandwiches, hamburgers and his morning toast with his favourite canine.

Although it was obvious he was slowing down, it hadn’t yet become obvious that his mind was slipping.

Little things happened here and there, but we didn’t think much of it.

One day I stopped at the house at lunch time and he was sitting in the living room. I could hear and smell something frying in the kitchen. After he greeted me, he said something that caught my attention.

“Your mom’s in the kitchen frying up some pork chops,” he said, with a strange look on his face.

At that point in time, my mom had been gone for a few months, so I was puzzled.

I said, “Dad, you know mom’s gone, don’t you?”

He nodded and smiled a bit of a goofy, confused smile and said yes, he knew she was gone.

The pork chops were indeed

in the frying pan (one for him and one for Jet), but Betty Jean was not in the kitchen.

Fast forward to a few months later and the wedding of my niece Marcy in Sarnia and the first really noticeable sign that something was wrong reared its head.

The wedding was at the Holiday Inn near Point Edward under the shadows of the Bluewater Bridge and we all stayed in the hotel — the bride and groom, both sets of parents and all the aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents.

My dad made the trip down and was set to sleep in my sister’s suite.

After dinner was over, he indicated he wanted to head back to the room so one of us escorted him to the room and got him settled. He assured us he’d be okay and that we should get back to the party.

At about 1 am, when the reception wrapped up, we all went back to our rooms.

As I was getting ready to hit the sack, the phone in the room rang. Keep in mind this was 2002 and there weren’t a lot of cell phones floating around.

It was the front desk on the phone, asking if I had seen my father.

I informed the desk clerk that

The Balzer-Pickford hot rod

RIB’S RAMBLINGS

he was in my sister’s room, but the desk clerk informed me that my sister had called the front desk looking for him as well.

Mark Ribble

All the Ribble/Sovie relatives gathered in the lobby of the hotel as the search began for our dad.

The police were called and a canine unit was soon out searching along the nearby bank of the St. Clair River.

It was suggested by the Sarnia Police that we contact Leamington Police to see if he somehow made it home.

He had disappeared with his suitbag and the clothes on his back. We thought it was ludicrous that they’d suggest that.

After all, how would he get all the way back to Leamington?

After several hours of searching, phone calls and worrying about an 82-year-old on his own, he was indeed back home.

He told us he woke up, looked at the clock and saw 1:00. He thought it was 1:00 in the afternoon the next day, and when he saw nobody else in the room, he thought we’d all checked out and left him there.

He walked out the back door, where the highway traffic zoomed by and stuck out his thumb.

He was apparently picked

up by a man who drove him all the way to Leamington, where he finally picked up his home phone hours after we started calling him.

Even then, we thought it was quirky, but didn’t dawn on us that this was dementia setting in.

We found out over the next three years that it was indeed, dementia. My dad died in 2006.

Similar things are happening to millions of families all around the world and many hopelessly watch their parent or spouse fade away mentally while remaining somewhat healthy physically.

I lost my father-in-law to dementia on Christmas Day 2020 and said goodbye over an iPad because of the pandemic.

It seems to be affecting people at younger ages too, which is alarming for those of us who’ve got the ‘dementia gene.’

Some are worse than others, but they all share a common theme. The person we grew up knowing is changed forever.

They call it the long goodbye for a reason, and even though they say there are drugs that can slow it down, it seems an inevitable fate for so many.

Teenage hot

rodder

Bill Balzer lived in Oakville and one day found a Model A Ford coupe in a barn about 40 miles north of where he lived. He bought it for $25.

Bill and a friend began towing it home using the rope from an outboard motor behind Bill’s pickup truck. The Model A had no brakes and whenever Bill had to

slow down, his friend in the Model A banged into the back of his truck. The Model A roof had rotted away, giving Bill’s friend a view of the highway whenever he stood up with his head through the roof.

After getting it home, Bill turned it into a hot rod with a souped up flathead V8. He replaced the missing roof with the

hood off a ’41 Mercury and then chopped the top a full five inches. This meant, whenever he went over a bump, his head hit the inside of the roof.

Bill finally sold it to his friend Ron Pickford, the young man in the photo. Judging by the grease and oil on Ron’s coveralls, the car still needed some work. Now long gone but the memories live on.

Always looking for stories. Email billtsherk@ sympatico.ca.

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 concerns with the integrity of the stories in our newspaper, we encourage you to contact the National NewsMedia Council or visit mediacouncil.ca.

Please know that we respect opposing viewpoints however we will not tolerate harassment or threats directed towards our staff. Should any member of our staff feel threatened, we will have no choice but the contact the authorities.

Happy hot rodder Ron Pickford 65 years ago!

ESSCFP HOSTS VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Last week, Erie Shores South Catholic Family of Parishes (ESSCFP) held their Vacation Bible School (VBS) at St. Michael’s Church. Approximately 98 children participated in games, music, crafts and faith lessons all based on the seven sacraments. In the top left photo, Anna Hind enjoys a game of Wilderness Bingo. In the top right photo, Annabelle Lopez-Leclerc, Emmanuel Lopez and Agnes Glajch provide accompaniment for one of several songs performed. In the bottom photo, volunteer Susie Iaconelli offers a healthy snack to VBS participant Isabel Boileau. Photos submitted

Korean War, Afghanistan War.

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 519-984-2531. Contact Ian at this number for more information.

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.

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.

St. Vincent De Paul at St. Michael’s Parish 226-340-7233, Salvation Army Food Bank 9:15 - 11:45 a.m. The warming Cross at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Food Cupboard at St. John’s Anglican church, The Bridge (ages 14-24), Food Pantry at Parkdale Variety, neighbourhood pantry at Erie South and Marlborough and the Angel Pantry at St. John’s Anglican Church. All are free. All are welcome.

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. Visit a meeting and see how you like it! Next meetings are August 2nd, 16th & 30th. For more info Email: ErieShoresTM@yahoo.com Facebook: Erie Shores Toastmasters or go to ErieShores. toastmastersclubs.org.

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 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Bring your phones, tablets, iPads and questions! No Tech help offered on Monday, July 3.

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.

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,

ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT SOMEONE’S DRINKING? Al-Anon Family Groups meeting information: 519-7907739 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.

IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, THAT’S YOUR BUSINESS If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous: 519999-1234.

COMMUNITY TAKEOUT IS AVAILABLE at Leamington United Church, 4:00 - 5:00 pm every Monday. St. John’s Anglican Church also has takeout meals available every Wednesday from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Food is available from

MELO CLINIC & PREGNANCY CENTRE, 75 Erie Street South, Unit 103, Leamington, offers free and confidential services provided by registered nurses. Pregnancy tests, STI testing & treatment. Call 24/7 for confidential support 519-3260612. Business calls 519-326-3821. www. pregnancycentre.net.

WESTOVER - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd. N. Tuesdays 6:00 - 7:00 pm. Pre-treatment or after-care program for substance misuse. Do you, a friend or family member struggle with substance misuse? Come learn about the solution process. Dropin group session. No registration required.

CENTRE CAFE - Open Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:00 am to noon. Have a coffee & a snack on us! Use computer to work on resume, print documents, surf web. Free Wifi available. 1860 Division Rd. N. Kingsville.

COOKING WITH CHARTWELLKingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd.; 3rd Thursday of every month. Step by step cooking class with Chef Henry. Samples served. Spots are limited. Register kim@ kingsvillecentre.com.

JEN KNIGHT BAND AT TWO CREEKS THIS SUNDAY

summer lineup, be sure to check out the website at www.twocreeks.ca. Submitted photo

OPP reminder: Lots of motorcycles in area this weekend

The Hogs for Hospice Motorcycle Rally is quickly approaching August 4-6 and this is a largely attended event in Leamington.

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Essex County Detachment is asking for the public to be patient due to the increased motorcycle traffic that is expected.

The motoring public are

being asked to be extra vigilant and to take a little more time when making manoeuvres such as signalling turns and checking blind spots.

Vehicle operators are encouraged to check their mirrors frequently in order to be more aware of activity around their vehicle. This simple safety skill, while driving, will help to

Kingsville Friendly Club

President Bob Bell welcomed 33 members out to the Unico Centre on Tuesday, July 25.

Scores in Bridge: Jean Kuipers 3950, Remi Fournier 3760, Mandy Hric 3620. Euchre: John Gerhardt and Bob Bell tied with 74, Clare Shaw 71, Dan Kir 69. Most lone hands: Sandi Campbell with 4.

Door prize winners were Ann Burrell, Dave Patter-

son and Gillian Pinkney. Snacks were provided by Jean Kuipers, Bert Patrick and Elsie Ring.

There were 39 out to play on Friday, July 28.

Scores in Bridge: Mac Stanley 4670, Roy Trowell 4520, Bob Bell 2860. Euchre: Willy Fittler 92, Terry Botting 81, Kathleen Wigfield 79. Most lone hands: Terry Botting with 6. Pepper: Winnie Moore 288,

prevent unnecessary col-

lisions and increase road safety for everyone.

There will be a highly visible police presence to ensure the safety of those in attendance and to assist with traffic related issues and police are urging everyone that will be attending this event to plan ahead if consuming intoxicating substances.

Sally Bell 270, Ken Salter 254. Most peppers: Moe Hansen and Winnie Moore tied with 6. Door prize winners were Bob Bell, Dawn Tizzard and Maggie Hansen. Maggie and Moe Hansen and Elsie Ring supplied delicious snacks. This Friday, all the August birthdays will be celebrated with cake and ice cream.

ERCA celebrates 50 years of conservation

Fifty years ago, on July 18,1973, the Essex Region Conservation Authority was founded as the 37th Conservation Authority in Ontario by Order in Council 1900/73, which stated “the Authority has jurisdiction over the watersheds of all streams within the County of Essex flowing into Lake St. Clair, Detroit River and Lake Erie…”.

An office was established in what is now MacKenzie Hall in Windsor, and Robert Pulleyblank, former Reeve of

Sandwich South Township was elected as its first Chairman.

Over the past five decades, significant strides have been made in improving the sustainability of the Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island region.

“When ERCA was established in 1973, the natural areas coverage of the region was at about 3%,” says Tim Byrne, ERCA CAO. “Since that time, we’ve planted nearly 7 million trees and restored thousands of acres of natural habitat, and our

Edna Margaret Gardner

January 2, 1927 – July 28, 2023

After a long full life well lived, our mother, Edna Margaret Gardner (nee Garno), has joined the Lord at 96 years old on Friday, July 28, 2023.

Born on Pelee Island

January 2, 1927. Edna was the proud mother of her sons Wayne (Sandy) of Ohio, Marvin (Karen), Rex of Windsor, Kirk (Vicki) of Pelee Island. A loving little Nana to Paul, Susan and James. A great-grandma to Christian, Travis, Cameron, Creedence, Calli and Jessie-Lynn. Survived by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her loving husband Francis in 1998, also by her parents and two brothers, Lewis and Edward.

A big thank you to the Leamington Mennonite Home and Erie Shores HealthCare for making her final days comfortable.

Cremation has taken place. A private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Words of comfort can be shared at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Dr. John Michael Leonn

It is with saddened hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. John Michael Leonn on Thursday, July 13, 2023 at the age of 80.

Beloved husband of Pat Leonn for 49 years. Cherished father to Dan and Mike (Carly). Grandpa to Luke and Miles. Brother to Marc (Sue). Brother-in-law to Frankie. John will be missed by many nieces and nephews and extended family in Canada, Australia and Belgium.

John was born in Belgium and immigrated to Australia with his family after the war. He immigrated to Canada in 1970.

John was an admired veterinarian in Essex County and Wheatley for 40 years. He loved skiing and was a ski instructor in Banff. He also loved flying and was a flight instructor in London, but his passion was always working with animals.

No service will be held, as John requested. Arrangements entrusted to Simple Choice (Leamington).

Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.simple choice cremation.ca

regional coverage is now more than 8.5%.”

As well, ERCA has protected more than 10,000 homes from the dangers of flooding and erosion, established 16 publicly accessible conservation areas, developed more than 80 kilometres of connect Greenway Trail system, and has connected hundreds of thousands of children to nature through Conservation Education programs.

The Authority led the regional charge to protect drinking water at its source, and to have the Detroit River designated as a Canadian Heritage River. To this day, it is the only river in North America with both Canadian and American Heritage River designations.

“It is truly remarkable to reflect upon not only the many conservation successes that have taken place over all these years, but also the challenges that we have overcome,”

Byrne said. “And while we’ve drastically improved the state of sustainability of our region, there is still much work to be done to ensure we are resilient to the impacts of climate change, and to balance development and the environment so that we don’t leave an ecological deficit for future generations. We look forward to working with

our member municipalities, senior levels of government, and our many partners to continue to implement the watershed-based conservation initiatives which continue to be so important to our region.”

Despite being one of the last authorities to be formed, it was the first to undertake comprehensive shoreline mapping

and regulations, resulting in the protection of new development from flooding and erosion.

A public celebration of ERCA’s 50 years of conservation was held at the John R. Park Homestead.

A curated art exhibit entitled “50 Years of Conservation – Through the Artist’s Eye’ will remain on display through Labour Day.

Wheatley Legion news

Proof of obituary to run

There were 16 players out on Friday, July 21 for Wheatley Legion Friday Night Fun Darts, hosted by Kingsville Legion.

August 2, 2023

Southpoint Sun

$200 plus $26 HST = $226

Balter 3; Julie Reid, Dennis Kiss and Neil Handspiker 2; Jean Teylouni and Dave Leili 1.

Recording wins were: Michelle Webster, Ted Allen and Larry Evoy 6; Laura Smith, Dave Vermeiren and Gord Crook

Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca Thanks.

Lady doublers were Michelle (4) and Joanne.

There were 19 players out for darts on July 28.

5; Bonnie Evoy, Tim Paguin and Jim McClellan

4; Joanne Smith and Ben

Recording wins were: Gord Crook, Dennis Kiss and Jim McClellan 5; Julie Reid and Dave Leili 5; Laura Smith and Neil

Handspiker 4; Sherry Chambers and Cookie Klooster 4; Jean Teyiouni, Ted Allen and Larry Evoy 4; Amy Kendall and Doug Stevenson 3; Bonnie Evoy, Jay Airde and Ben Balter 2; JoAnne Smith and Manny Resendes 1.

Lady doublers were Laura, Sherry, Jean, Amy and Bonnie. Jim shot 171.

The Municipality of

WSO to perform free concert

The Windsor Symphony Orchestra’s free Summer Concert Series begins next week and includes a stop in Leamington on Saturday, August 12.

The concert will feature Maestro Francisco Hernández Bolaños and the WSO, from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Sun-

Chatham-Kent hired an appraisal company to give an appraisal on the Legion building. It was done in June and the Branch is supposed to have the results at any time now on what kind of compensation the Legion will get if the building is to be torn down.

set Amphitheatre at Seacliff Park, 24 Seacliff Dr. W., Leamington.

Summer concerts are held outdoors and are free to the public. Bring a lawn chair, a picnic basket, some sunscreen and enjoy great music from the WSO.

OBITUARIES ARE PART OF THE PUBLIC RECORD

The Southpoint Sun is the newspaper of record for Leamington, Kingsville and Wheatley. That means that historians, geneology buffs and your ancestors will be checking our archives 50 years from now, searching for your obituary. Putting the obituary of your loved one on Facebook is fine, but understand that not everyone uses social media and that great-grandson who is looking for your obituary in 2073 will not find it anywhere if it’s not placed in the newspaper.

To get your loved one’s obituary into the paper, please request it with your funeral director. Questions? Call our office at 519-398-9098

Past and present ERCA staff and board members celebrated 50 years of conservation. Photo submitted

GRADUATION PHOTO REPRINTS

The July 19 issue of the Southpoint Sun included the composite graduation photos of the Class of 2023 for Kingsville, Leamington and Cardinal Carter and also the group photo of the graduates of UMEI. Technical difficulties created a blurry print of these colour photos where the colour registration was off, prompting some calls and emails from parents whose children were in the photos. In order to rectify this, we’ve chosen to re-run the photos only in black and white this week on these two pages. Please note, the colour spreads are still available on our website at www.southpointsun.ca if you click on “view as Issuu” and look for the July 19 edition. SUN STAFF

UMEI CLASS OF ’23

UMEI Christian High School 2023 graduates are, in front: Madelyn Enns and Isabel Neufeld. Middle row: Cody Konrad, Hailey St. Pierre, Olivia Coppola, Braedon Douglas. Back row: Mason Fittler, Justin Neufeld, Ryan Friesen.

Take Your Shot competition at The Bridge

Hannah Iacobelli walked into The Bridge Youth Resource Centre on Thursday, July 27 with an idea for her blossoming business and walked out $20,000 richer as the winner of the third annual Take Your Shot competition.

The competition — sponsored by the Municipality of Leamington, Kingsville Stamping, Ontario Realtors Care Foundation and The Bridge Youth Resource Centre — is a Dragon’s Den-like competition where young entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges for a chance to win a $20,000 prize.

There were five finalists who attended the competition on Thursday at The Bridge and five local judges who came to the final decision based on pre-determined criteria and the live pitches from the contestants.

Judges included Sal Albano, Mike DelCiancio, Linden Crain, Dave Kirby and Carmelo DeGrandi. Jay Marchillo of 96.7 Radio emceed the event.

An inspirational speech from last year’s winner, Dominique, was given just before the winners were announced.

For Hannah Iacobelli, her pitch on her business The Hive Hub, gave her the leg up on the competition as she outlined her plans to create a mobile office and 3-D printing trailer to travel to customers across Ontario.

The Hive Hub is aimed at start-ups and small businesses who need to utilize 3-D printing and also at youth, where the trailer would travel to schools for demonstrations and to educate youngsters on innovation and manufacturing.

Her motto, “Innovation, accessible to all” was the cornerstone of her pitch.

The runner-up was Amaan Jamali, with his Verti-Grow plan.

The Verti-Grow is a repurposed blue plastic barrel that’s been made into a planter for multiple plants by cutting holes in the sides of the barrel. Jamali said that people are looking to grow their own

TONY’S JOINT OPENS THIRD LOCATION

Tony’s Joint has opened their third location locally with the grand opening held at the Leamington store on Saturday, July 29. The store offers top-shelf cannabis, concentrates, edibles and accessories in a safe, comfortable, clean upscale environment. They even offer a pickup window, which owner Tony Cervini says is a first for southwestern Ontario. In the left photo, Tony Cervini (left) and Lucas Azar peer through the pickup window. In the right photo, from left, are digital marketing director Chelsea Geschiere, employee Jessica Groen, owner Tony Cervini, store manager Lucas Azar and employee Camryn Lamotte. SUN photos

vegetables and his idea will save time and space in their backyard. He took home $10,000 in funding for his idea.

Derek Bedal’s Hometown Hoops business — which has been up and running since 2021 — re-

ceived third place prize money of $5,000. He has started an all-ages, all-skill basketball organization with plans to runs youth camps, tournaments and an already-successful adult rec league.

Mohamad Mohamad

took fourth place with his Balanced Nutrition and Fitness business.

The University of Windsor student talked about how important proper nutrition is in addition to fitness training. He took home a cheque for $2,500.

Fifth place went to Madiha Shaikh and her team with their Personal Support Plus platform. They are starting a PSW company that would be booked and run through an online app. Their idea garnered them a $1,500 prize.

GYROS & MORE HOLDS GRAND REOPENING

The Leamington Gyros & More has new ownership as they held a grand reopening on Saturday, July 29. The duo in charge of the Leamington locations are a father and son team — Ryan and Gabriel Beaudoin. They’ve made it a real family affair with other family members helping to get the restaurant moving in the right direction. On Saturday, Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald attended the opening along with Wendy Parsons and her crew from the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce. Here, in centre Ryan and Gabriel cut the ribbon as family members and other visitors help with the task. SUN photo

The Bridge Take Your Shot finalists display their winnings after the third annual Take Your Shot competition on Thursday, July 27. From left are Derek Bedal (third), Amaan Jamali (second), Hannah Iacobelli (winner), Mohamad Mohamad (fourth), Varun Charavanan and Madiha Shaikh (fifth). SUN photo

Updated end unit townhouse in a terrific neighbourhood near the lake. Open concept layout w/lofted ceilings. Large primary bdrm w/ ensuite bath. Furnace & flooring recently replaced. Immediate possession.

R.A. REALTY INC. BROKERAGE

Prime Heritage Rd waterfront property on the northern shores of Lake Erie in Kingsville. Approximately 120 feet of lake frontage with a separate parcel on the north side of Heritage backing on to the Cedar Creek Canal. Breakwall substantially reenforced. Preliminary engineering study concluded a severance on the lakefront parcel may be possible. Buyer responsible to satisfy themselves as the extent a severance is possible. 2 bedroom cottage with second floor loft area ready to be finished. Plenty of options and opportunities for this property.

R.A. REALTY INC. BROKERAGE

519-326-6154

#6 team in canada for century 21 based on units sold1 #6 team in canada for century 21 based on production1

NOTICES

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Claims against the Estate of Marjorie Irene Torrance, late of the Community of Leamington in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, deceased, who died on or about May 6th, 2023, must be in our hands by August 25th, 2023 after which date the estate will be distributed, having regard only to the claims then filed.

DATED at this 26thday of July 2023.

Shirley Jean Gore and Gerald Lynn Torrance, Executors c/o DANIEL B. NICOL LAW OFFICE

64 Main Street East, P.O. Box 700

Ridgetown, Ontario NOP 2C0 their solicitor herein

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

All persons having claims against the estate of Adam Steven Tofflemire, late of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Province of Ontario, Deceased, who died on or about the 26th day of May, 2023, are required to send particulars thereof to the undersigned solicitor for the Estate Trustee before the 26th day of August, 2023, after which date the assets will be distributed to the parties entitled thereto, having regard only to those claims received.

DATED at Essex, Ontario this 13thday of July 2023.

Peggy E. Golden McGregor, Sims Schmoranz, Solicitor for Destiny Tofflemire Estate Trustee without a Will

13 King Street West

P.O. Box 279

Harrow, Ontario

N0R 1G0

HOSPITAL BED FOR SALE

- purchased brand new in 2021. Includes mattress & topper, and all bedding. Petfree & smoke-free home. Call or text 519-919-9987. jl26-au2

SERVICES

SOFT & CLEAN upholstery and carpet cleaningLeamington, Wheatley, Kingsville, Essex and Windsor areas. Call or text Olga at 519-999-7715. au2-9

ZEN PETS GROOMINGCPPS 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.

COVID-19 certified & compliant. mr1-tfn

ELECTROLUX SALES & SERVICE: Complete line of vacuums and shampooers/ floor polishers. Will provide free estimate on Central Vac installations. Contact Dan Bailey. 519-322-8625. tf

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

HELP WANTED

Southwestern Manufacturing Inc is looking for

(5) CNC Machinist

PINNACLE ACRES REQUIRES

ASSEMBLY SPECIALIST

•Starting Wage $22-$28.85 per hour

•Medical and Pension Benefit

•Minimum 5 years of experience

•Able to drive a lift truck and scissor lift

•Mechanically inclined

PROJECT ADMINISTRATOR

•Starting Wage $25-$31.32 per hour depending on experience.

•Medical and Pension Benefit

•Must have previous experience with manufacturing sales and various projects.

Is looking for: Apply at: info@jeilspecialcanada.com

Call: 519-800-1246

Fax: 313-556-1334 https://jeilspecialcanada.com

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

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, someone in your life says they’re making changes, but when you look closely it seems like much of the same. A little encouragement on your part can help this person along.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Tread lightly if you broach a difficult conversation with someone close to you, Taurus. These are tricky waters you are navigating and you want to maintain the relationship.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Problems may seem to you to be bigger than they really are, Gemini. Step back, take a few breaths and then look at things from another perspective. Ask for a second opinion as well.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Look for the double meanings in conversations you’re having with coworkers this week, Cancer. They could be trying to tell you something, so read between the lines.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, you are typically good at reading others’ moods, so use that skill this week when placed in a sensitive situation. It will help guide you on what to say and what to keep quiet for now.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

There is a lot of socializing going on in your life right now, Virgo. Enjoy the excitement while it lasts and maximize all of the events you can attend. Things may start to slow in a few weeks.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

It’s probably best to keep your head down for the next few days and just go about your normal routine, Libra. Don’t get pulled into anyone’s drama or offer your take on things.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, it is time to be more proactive about getting what you want. Make a list of the things that most interest you right now, and then devise a plan to make things happen.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Figure out which stance you want to take right now, Sagittarius. Are you seeing the glass half full or half empty? Perception can affect your daily life in many ways.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Good news is on the way, Capricorn. This will leave you floating on air for some time afterwards. Surround yourself with the people you love this week so that they can share the good fortune.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

There is a lot that you have been juggling for some time, Aquarius. Unless you take a break or ask for help, one of those balls are going to fall and that could have a domino effect.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, you have every right to express your opinions. Others will just have to accept what you say even if they don’t agree with it.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JULY 30 - Terry Crews, Actor (55)

JULY 31 - BJ Novak Actor (44)

AUGUST 1 - Jason Momoa, Actor (44)

AUGUST 2 - Austin Theory, Wrestler (26)

AUGUST 3 James Hetfield, Singer (60)

AUGUST 4 - Meghan Markle, Dutchess (42)

AUGUST 5 Patrick Ewing, Coach (61)

WORD SCRAMBLE

Memories of... Kingsville, Leamington and Whea ey

Photos from Kingsville-Gosfield Heritage Society

Dusting off the memories

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.

1790-2000 A Stroll Through Time

Photo courtesy of the Kingsville Archives

Looking back ...

From the Leamington Post August 4, 1938

A Look at Leamington’s Past courtesy of C. Scott Holland

A major landmark in Leamington – the Leamington Tomato, was the local Tourist Information Booth. It signified the home of the Annual Tomato Festival and the fact that tomatoes were a major crop in the area. Sadly, it eventually became unusable.

kingsvillearchives@gmail.com

Leamington’s Past courtesy of the C. Scott Holland Collection

Seeking information about the fees charged at other National Parks across Canada, Murray Clark, MP for South Essex, received a response back from the Lands, Parks and Forest Branch of the Department of Mines and Resources in Ottawa this week. Point Pelee National Park falls into the category with Waterton Lakes, Prince Albert and Riding Mountains National Parks with a seasonal license of $1 for non-commercial autos and $2 for autos with trailers attached. Single trip licenses remain at .25 for autos and are good for 30 days. In the letter to Mr. Clark it was pointed out that visitors are not charged an admission fee, rather anyone in an automobile must pay to help offset construction and maintenance of roads within the park.

Mrs. Grant Ward, who was Helen Watson before her marriage last month, was honoured with several showers recently. Misses Josephine Armstrong, Dorothy King and Mrs. Vera Harris entertained 14 guests at a miscellaneous shower for the bride on Wellington Street. More recently, a group of young married couples surprised Mr. and Mrs. Ward with a shower at their home on Robinson Street.

Clippings

from the Wheatley Journal, May 1989

Clippings from the Wheatley Journal

Hundreds of holiday-seekers were disappointed Monday when the steamer Chippewa failed to make a scheduled excursion to Cleveland from here and Kingsville. Gathering on Leamington and Kingsville docks shortly after 6:30 am, the crowds waited until it became apparent that the boat would not arrive. Many of them left, but others waited for a later excursion to Put-In-Bay on the steamer Erie Isle, which left in the afternoon.

a friendly atmosphere until Councillor Victor Maxwell, in a brush with Rev. Alfred Burgess, suggested that people only go to church when they can find no ball game to attend. Sparks flew after that statement, which escalated after Mayor Crawford expressed his support for the ball games.

The contest is over and the winner of the Shetland pony presented by this newspaper and a group of Kingsville merchants is Stanley Cox, son of Mr. and Mrs. F.W. Cox of Kingsville. Stanley had the most votes in the contest which closed Saturday midnight. Stanley beat out second place finisher Doris Cascadden.

Swift action by County Constable F.N. Noble at Colchester resulted in the capture of five Windsor boys shortly after they allegedly broke into the cream trailer owned by Gerald and Lewis Willis of Windsor. On Thursday morning, Mr. Noble was parked half a block away when several boys ran to a car parked nearby. The boys drove away and Noble followed and notified the Willis boys who had just reported the crime. He managed to catch up with them in Harrow, where they were arrested.

60 years Later

From the Wheatley Journal August 12, 1998

Steve Getty was honoured with the 1998 Captain of the Fleet award at the annual Wheatley Fish Festival on the Civic holiday weekend. He was presented the award by fellow Wheatley fisherman Murray Loop.

August 2003 - Tournament

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!

Walter Tatomir, 11, son of Dennis Tatomir, had his right leg amputated at Hopewell Hospital yesterday as the result of injuries received when he was knocked from his bicycle by a truck driven by his father. From details available, the lad was riding his bike on Concession C in Mersea Township and got in the path of the oncoming truck, which ran over his leg. He was taken to the hospital by his father, where the limb was removed by Dr. H.R. Nicklin.

The 1998 version of the fishing tug races resulted in the Dupper Don capturing the B class, while the Liddle Lady was second and J.R. Elsley was third. The Linda Jane won the A class, with Josh II and Bessie Ann II rounding out the top three. The best decorated fishing boat was once again Collard Fisheries with the Lasher O finishing second and the Bessie Ann II third. In the showdown for brute power, the Josh II outdid Liddle Lady. As an added attraction, the Josh II and the Crystal Blue hooked up together to take on the Leonard S, but once again the powerful trawler made quick work of the two conventional fishing tugs.

MEMORIES OF KINGSVILLE, LEAMINGTON & WHEATLEY PRESENTED COURTESY OF ...

MEMORIES OF KINGSVILLE, LEAMINGTON & WHEATLEY PRESENTED COURTESY OF ... 170 OAK ST. W. LEAMINGTON

1-877-511-2927 • 519-326-9052

www.leamingtonchrysler.com

From the Kingsville Reporter August 4, 1938

The town fathers and the Kingsville clergy debated the pros and cons of Sunday baseball for over two hours Tuesday night, finally taking a ‘seventh-inning stretch’ that may last till spring. Councillors gave very little support to the ministers’ drive to end the games here and mayor Fred Crawford voiced open approval of the Sunday contests. Several local clergy were on hand to ask council to ban ball games on Sunday, at least until after church is out. It was

Kelly Shanks of R.R.1 Wheatley was declared Miss Comber Fair at the 139th fair held last weekend. Kelly is the daughter of Al and Mavis Shanks and was sponsored by the Tilbury Auto Mall.

The Heinz Hitch team will return to the Leamington Tomato Festival this year when our neighbours celebrate the tomato August 12-16. The eight black percherons travel the continent performing at local fairs, festivals and exhibitions.

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.

Supports Hospital - Leamington Hospital’s Outreach Resource and Education Room (CORE ROOM) benefited from the annual Sally Jackson Memorial golf tournament. Ninety-eight golfers took part in the event raising $2,845. Ross Barnwell accepted the donation from chairperson Anne Reid.

August 1, 1979 - Carol Boudreau (left) and Flora DelCiancio (right) look over letters they wrote to each other after meeting for the first time. They had been pen pals for over six years. Boudreau came to Leamington for the special visit and Flora plans on visiting Carol in Wedgeport, Nova Scotia.

Girls fastpitch wind-up dodges rain to produce champions

The LDMBA hosted the local league girls fastpitch finals over the weekend and despite Saturday being a washout, were able to get everything wrapped up by dinnertime on Sunday.

In the 13U division, MCC Thrift on Mill lost a heartbreaker in the final to Essex.

In the 10U Tier 2 division, Green Leaf Acres dropped a tough game to Essex in the final to finish as runners-up as well.

The lone champion from Leamington was Pier-C Produce, who defeated Kingsville in a close final game on diamond one on Sunday.

Convenor Mark Epplett and his crew

should be commended on a successful second season of girls fastpitch, from which these players will graduate to the travel Whitecaps program as they progress.

Flyers will drop puck in new league on September 7

The Leamington Flyers will drop the puck for the first time as members of the Ontario Junior Hockey League on September 7, 2023, at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre.

The OJHL has released their 2023-24 schedule, with each team scheduled for 56 games from September 7 until March 8.

The Leamington Flyers will keep their coveted Thursday night home nights, with puck drops at 7:10 pm.

Opening night will fea-

ture a banner raising ceremony for the 2023 Sutherland Cup Championship and welcomes the Buffalo Jr. Sabres, who return to the OJHL after a threeyear absence.

“Releasing the schedule is always an exciting time, especially this year,”

Flyers general manager Justin Solcz admits.

“We are very fortunate to have a highly manageable schedule that aligns perfectly with our players’ needs. Maintaining our Thursday night home games and typically play-

ing only one road game on the weekend, our players will benefit from a well-balanced schedule that prioritizes both their hockey development and academic pursuits.”

The schedule regularly features one road game a

week and only posts one time with back-to-back road games, along with two midweek road games throughout the year.

Other key Flyers dates: Leamington will play three Sunday regular season home games, with

puck drop at 5:10 pm: November 19 vs Caledon, December 10 vs Brantford, January 21 vs Caledon.

Prior to the regular season, Leamington will compete in the inaugural Cottage Cup, held in Collingwood. The tournament will feature teams from the OJHL, other CJHL partner leagues and Europe, and run from August 28-30.

The OJHL’s Governors’ Showcase will take place in Buffalo, New York, from September 26-28 at

the LECOM Harborcenter, the official practice facility of the NHL’s Buffalo Sabres.

The league’s All Star Celebration happens January 12 and 13 in Collingwood, and the 2024 Centennial Cup, the National Jr A Championship, will be held in Oakville from May 9-19.

More information can be found on the team’s social media channels and www.leamingtonflyers.com.

The Pier-C Produce team took top honours in the Tier 1 10U division of the girls fast pitch wind-up on the weekend. Back row, from left, are coaches Shadd Dales, Curtis Anderson, Mark Epplett, Doug McKeen, Matt Korotva and Kevin Hopper. Middle row: Avery Anderson, Emma Robinson, Eva McKeen, Larissa Bento, Adelaide Quiring, Zoey Dales, Sloane Hopper and Mila Epplett. In front: Ella Epplett, Michaela Bento, Lola Korotva. SUN photo

Baeini, Ravens in junior football final Saturday Erie Shores senior men’s golf

The Essex Varsity Ravens football team will play for their fourth consecutive Ontario Junior Football League title on Saturday, August 5 as they host the Hamilton Junior Ti-Cats at University of Windsor’s Alumni Field.

The game takes on a local flavour for Andrew George who is the special teams coordinator and defensive backs coach for the Ravens. George, a teacher and coach at Cardinal Carter Catholic High School in Leamington, is going for his fourth consecutive provincial title with the team.

One of those defensive backs is Leamington’s Nick Baeini, who is shooting for his second title in a Ravens uniform.

Baeini leads the team with six interceptions, two defensive touchdowns and four blocked punts.

The Ravens are 39-1 over the past four seasons with their only blemish a one-point loss to Hamilton in week six of the current season.

Baeini and George hope that Leamington and Kingsville football fans will show up to root their hometown boys on. Game time is 7 pm.

INJURY SPECIFIC EXERCISES...

At Renew we pride ourselves in the continuous evaluation and evolution of the appropriate exercises to address your specific impairment whether it consists of movement impairment, muscle imbalance or weakness, endurance, proprioception or balance.

There were 47 in attendance on July 24 for the Erie Shores Senior Men’s Golf League.

The team winners at +11 were Gary McRae, Scott Maxwell, Dan McQueen and Bill Gherasim. In second at +7 were Jerry Malott, Paul Pringle and Wayne Wiseman. Placing third at +5 were Dave Wilkinson, Bill Ruiter, Rick Metz and Stefan Kowal. In fourth spot at +2 by retrogression were Gary Alderson, Dave Binder, Heinz Kosempel and Orest Hrynewich.

Paul Pringle and Richard Reive were the draw winners. Closest to the hole on #3 was Bill Ruiter, on #16 Derek Horop. Norm Beatie made the longest putt on #7, while Dan Wood did it on #17. The three low net rounds went to Bill Ruit-

er 66, Alden Warner 67 and Wayne Wiseman 67.

Bill Ruiter shot the low round at 75, followed by John Rutgers and Wayne Wiseman at 78.

Wayne Wiseman had a bird #2, Orest Hrynewich #2 and #4, Bill Ruiter and Stefan Kowal #3, Ron Tiessen, Wray Pollock, and Dave Binder #4, Gord Anderson and John Rutgers #12, Phil Larade #15, and Derek Horop finished the birds with his on #16.

Essex Ravens special teams and defensive backs coach Andrew George, left, with Ravens standout defensive back Nick Baeini at Impact Fitness in Leamington, where George trains Baeini and other players.

Photo submitted

He was a lineman for the county before he was a rhinestone cowboy

It’s still hard to believe that Glen Campbell passed away almost six years ago on August 8, 2017.

Sadly, as sharp as his mind was for so many years long before then, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2011.

Born on April 22, 1936, Glen Travis Campbell was the seventh son of 12 children growing up on a farm that had no electricity. They grew cotton, corn, potatoes and watermelons. It was there that Glen started playing at four years old when his father got him a cheap $5

guitar to play.

When Campbell was six years old, he was playing on radio stations nearby and over the next eight years, his talent continued to grow.

Quitting school in grade 10, Glen went to Houston to work at installing insulation during the day and playing at local radio stations or nightclubs in the evening.

By 1953 — at the age of 17 — Campbell went to Albuquerque, New Mexico, to join his uncle’s band, Dick Bills & the Sandia Mountain Boys, along with meeting and

Jamieson golf tour

The Jamieson Tour made its sixth stop of the season July 24 at Maple City Golf and Country Club. The players were challenged all day with the high temperatures and tricky course layout.

In the Junior Girl’s Division, Hannah Butzer (Maple City) and Cadence Beuckelare tied with 3-over-par 75. Beuckelare bested Butzer in a playoff to earn her first victory of the season.

Cale Marontate (Kings-

ville) captured his second win of the season with a very impressive 2-under-par 70.

Shawn Sehra (Roseland) captured his fourth straight victory in the Collegiate Men’s Division with an even-par 72.

Rounding out play in the Collegiate Women’s Division, Hannah Meloche (Davenport) fired a 3-over-par 75.

Full results can be found at jamiesonjuniortour.ca

marrying his first wife who was 16 when he was 18.

Moving on to the beginning of the early to mid1960s, Glen played all kinds of musical genres including jazz, country, blue grass, easy-listening, rock ‘n’ roll and pop music.

In fact, by 1963 he played and/or sang on over 580 different songs. Like the Beatles, he never learned how to read music but could flawlessly play guitar, banjo, bass and mandolin.

Being a part of the legendary and famous group of studio musicians known as The Wrecking Crew, Campbell played on recordings by Frank Sinatra, the Beach Boys, Elvis Presley, Paul Revere & The Raiders, The Monkees, Bing Crosby, Jan & Dean, Bobby Vee, Kenny

Rogers & The First Edition, The Everly Brothers, Nat King Cole and several others.

However, from December 1964 until mid-March 1965, Glen became a touring band member of the Beach Boys, filling in for leader Brian Wilson and playing bass guitar and singing the famous falsetto harmonies, until the newest beach boy, Bruce Johnston, joined in 1965.

By the fall of 1965, Campbell’s sixth record release, “The Universal Soldier” written by Canadian Buffy Sainte-Marie, broke into the top 50 on the Billboard Hot 100 peaking at 45.

However, it wasn’t until Jimmy Webb’s song, “By The Time I Get To Phoenix”, sung by Campbell, peaked at #26 in early December of 1967 that many took notice of him.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Dr. Robert McCormick Optometrist, Leamington Eyecare

Dear Leamington, Wheatley and Tilbury patients, for the time being I am now only available at my Kingsville Eyecare Clinic to assist you with your eyecare and eyewear needs. We welcome you to call 519-325-0123 or 519-733-3560 to schedule an appointment or if you have questions. Thank you for your continued support. 375

Glen really began picking up speed in 1968 when three of his four singles, including “I Wanna Live”, “Dreams of the Everyday Housewife” and “Gentle On My Mind” all made the Top 40.

FLASHBACK RADIO with Chuck

Reynolds

Single of the Year and Song of the Year.

Early in 1969, Jimmy Webb’s classic “Wichita Lineman”, sung by Campbell, reached #3.

In the spring of 1969, Webb’s song “Galveston” turned out to be Glen Campbell’s third biggest hit of all time reaching #4, while his most famous and best-selling single that remained on the Billboard Hot 100 for 23 weeks, and #1 for 2 weeks, was “Rhinestone Cowboy” in the early summer of 1975. It also won awards as CMA Song of the Year, ACM

“Southern Nights” was Glen’s last #1 song on Billboard’s Hot 100 in the summer of 1977. Since then, until November 1, 2014, he had six more songs reach the Billboard Hot 100.

However, Glen Campbell’s last song that he wrote and sang peaked at #90 on November 1, 2014. It was his last single release on Billboard’s Hot 100 called “I’m Not Gonna Miss You”.

The song was his defiant response to Alzheimer’s and was dedicated to his fourth wife, Kimberly Woolen of 35 years. He died at 81.

$9900

Wheatley Friendship Club

By Bonnie G. Dawson

On July 19, a modest crowd showed up for the potluck dinner at the Wheatley Friendship Club. Those who came enjoyed a terrific meal with a wide variety of dishes – lasagna, potato salad, other veggie dishes, macaroni salads, Watergate salads and others, as well as a delicious

assortment of desserts. There were a few pieces of broasted chicken left over and club members were quick to buy them up. Thanks to everyone who brought food and helped set up and clean up.

The door prizes went to Linda Humphries, Doreen Armstrong, Dorothy Bailey, Barb Siddall and Pat

McKenzie on fire with 40

Churchill.

After the meal, Bingo was played. Thanks to Mary Siddall for calling the numbers and to Pauline Sample for handing out the prizes. Bingo winners for the afternoon were Bonnie A. Dawson, Linda Humphries, Barb Siddall, Bob Dawson, Phil Humphries, Pat Churchill and Ruth Ann Snively.

The winners of the 50/50 draws were Bonnie A. Dawson and Phil Humphries.

Quilting is on Mondays and Thursdays, Euchre is every Tuesday from 1:30-4:00 for $2, and Pepper is on Thursdays from1:30-4:00 for $2. Chair yoga is now available for $5 on Thursday mornings at 9:30.

The club’s library is open to members, as is the Treasures Room, and the Exercise Room is open to members for $1 per visit.

Members call Jessica Rodzik Couto at 519-9907308 for an appointment if you want foot care.

Noelle Robinson provides instruction for club members on how to use tablets/computers. Contact her at nrobinson1loveyoga@gmail.com to make an appointment.

By Bob McLean

On July 25, the Talbot Trail senior men’s golf league had 65 league participants who tackled the challenging TT layout. The recent rains and storms have kept Derek and the outside workers very busy. The greens and fairways are in terrific condition.

The CP winner was Dave Chambers whose dazzling shot on #9 ended up a mere 18 inches from being a hole in one! Eugene Kerrigan drained a spectacular 24+ foot putt on #2 to take the LP victory.

In the 80-85 years division, Chuck McKenzie put forth a masterful effort as he fired an awesome 40. Others who achieved superb results were: Tarciscio 46, Dave Chambers 47, Ray Foster 49, Conrad Babkirk a nifty 50.

In the 86+ years grouping, both Neil Adamson and Tom Hyatt shot outstanding nifty 50 results. Walter Balsam followed with a

very praiseworthy 53.

Bill Edwards, nursing a

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sore back, earned a commendable score.

In the gold super senior division (86+ years), Carl Robinson scored an excellent 47 to lead the way. He was closely followed by the inspiring play of 90-year-old golfers Gerry Becigneul and Dave LaBonte who shot 49 and a nifty 50 respectively. Erle Nash continued his commendable play.

Dutchy never fails to amaze. Despite many health issues, he keeps rebounding. He shot a miraculous 36 to lead the 70-79 group. He was

closely followed by the excellent results of Joe Drummond and Pearcie who shot 38 and 41 respectively. Commendable 44s were achieved by the following players: Doug Langlois, BW, Bobo, Gary Hillier. Other noteworthy scores: Rick Thompson 45, Paul Carioli 46, Mac Hyatt and Bummy 47, Dave Dent 48, nifty 50 by Ron Will, Jerry Paine and Ray la Pierre.

In the 50-69 years grouping, Randy Nash sparkled with his brilliant 37. Kreug had a marvellous 38. Fred Michano and Gerry Van Deven achieved terrific results of 40 and 42 respectively. Other noteworthy results: Fuzzy 43, Arkey and Phil Humphries 44s, Dave Clark 45.

Ray did an A+ job barbecuing the food.

Keep swinging and having fun!