Southpoint Sun - February 28, 2024

School naming decision prompts walk-out in Kingsville

By Mark Ribble

A walk-out by Kingsville District High School (KDHS) students took place on Friday, February 23 as they were joined by just as many adults — all showing their opposition to the recent naming of the new K-12 school located in Kingsville. The school on Jasperson Drive is still in its construction phase but that did not exclude it from the controversy surrounding the naming of the building, which is expected to open next September.

A call for volunteers was put out in November for anyone wishing to be on the naming committee for the school, which will welcome students from KDHS, Kingsville Public School, Harrow Public School, and Jack Miner Public School.

Over the past few weeks, members of the committee — consisting of representatives from the four schools — got together for meetings and brought a list of about 600 publicly suggested names

down to a final eight for their last meeting on February 12.

At the end of that meeting, those final eight prospective names were narrowed to two finalists — Greater Kingsville Academy and Kingsville District Academy.

However, eight days later, at the Greater Essex County District School Board meeting on Tuesday, February 20, a motion was brought forth to forego those names and go with Erie Migration Academy as an alternative.

Board trustee Julia Burgess provided lengthy rationale at the school board meeting for calling the school Erie Migration Academy and admitted she expected there’d be some opposition to the new name.

After a brief discussion — during which absent trustees Nancy Armstrong and Linda Qin called in about the motion — a vote was taken by the board on Ms. Burgess’ motion.

In a vote of 6-2 — with Armstrong and Qin voting against it — the new name passed.

Trustee Armstrong went on record to oppose the motion during her phone call.

“I cannot support this motion because I view it as not respecting all the work that was done before,” she said.

“I think we had the policy and had the committee formed based on the policy,” added Qin from the phone. “It seems that the motion kind of goes away from the suggestion of the committee. I think it’s not prudent to rush to decide a name.”

Board chair Gale Hatfield then mentioned that the regulation does provide that they can bring other names to the floor in the process and read the regulation which stated that trustees can vote to accept one of the suggestions from the committee — or provide an alternative.

“We have the right to choose an alternative,”

said Hatfield. Burgess suggested that she would not support deferring the decision back to the committee, due to time constraints. “Delay is not serving the decision well,” she said.

After the meeting concluded, social media was inundated with comments — mostly criticizing the board for their decision not to follow the recommendations of the naming committee.

The walk-out on Friday — joined by dozens of parents and other taxpayers in front of KDHS — was affected by the fog day called earlier in the morning, which also affected student attendance at school.

In total, about 200-300 people held signs, danced to lively music and induced hundreds of honks from passing vehicles.

KDHS student Lauren DeYong was part of the front line on the sidewalk.

“I attended the protest today because the name chosen is not one the naming committee voted for,”

said Lauren. “I want the board to reconsider and listen to the students.”

Her sister Morgan had similar sentiments.

“It’s important that things are done fairly and students on the naming committee were misled,” said Morgan. “Including Kingsville in the new school name is important for the legacy and unity of our community.”

Many local residents came out against the board’s decision, including MPP Anthony Leardi, who issued a statement over the weekend.

“The proposed name fails on at least four of the five naming criteria,” he said. “The board has made a misstep with the proposed name. The board should simply reconsider the choice and follow the process again.”

On Monday, trustee Burgess issued a letter in which she asked Leardi to rescind his statement, citing inaccuracies.

Another walk-out is called for Friday, March 1 in front of KDHS.

Students and adults gathered in front of Kingsville District High School on Friday, February 23 to protest the proposed name of the new K-12 school. SUN photo

Photo art auction in Kingsville raises money for local charities

By Paul Forman

Having raised $4,000 last year, the “WE” Photo Art Auction made a return visit to Kingsville on February 23 at the Grove-

dale Arts & Cultural Centre.

Presented by Donny Moore Photography and the Arts Society of Kingsville, over 50 pho-

Concierge Level.

Tasha Slater

tographs by 30 photographers from around the county were put up for sale in the hope that last year’s charitable total would be exceeded.

Prior to the charity soiree, the photographs were on exhibit in the Carnegie Arts & Visitor Centre for three weeks. The proceeds from the evening’s event will provide needed funding for both the Kingsville Community Centre and the St. Andrew’s Community Food Bank in LaSalle.

Next up for the Arts Society of Kingsville is a multimedia exhibit ti-

tled Just Imagine that runs from February 28 to March 24 at the Carnegie

Arts & Visitor Centre on Division Street South in Kingsville.

Eager buyers listened to remarks from auction organizer Donny Moore just prior to the call for bids. SUN photo by Paul Forman

Community Hope Centre raises $121k locally with walk

The Coldest Night of the Year annual fundraiser has been happening across Canada since 2011, but this year the Leamington Community Hope Centre took on the task of running the local event and raised a whopping $121,033 through a 2km walk on Saturday, February 24.

The day’s activities be-

gan around 4 pm with check-in and registration, followed by the send-off of about 215 walkers — many of them making up 26 teams as offices and places of business challenged each other in the fundraising category.

At 5 pm, the walkers left the Leamington Community Hope Centre and made their trek north

on Erie Street, to Talbot, down to Victoria and all the way to Oak Street, before turning up Erie Street again and returning to the warm, friendly confines of the Hope Centre for a nourishing meal served by The Giving Spoon.

Among the top teams in the fundraising, the Scotiabank Walking In Hope team brought in $7,410 for the cause, topping the leaderboard with 30 members participating.

Individually, Najla Jitani raised the most with a total of $2,480 in pledges, while Amy Bailey was a close second with $2,345.

Of course, the real winners through this event are the Hope Centre and

its clients.

The Leamington Community Hope Centre — located inside the auditorium of the former Knox Presbyterian Church — is

a non-profit organization committed to coming alongside people in their most difficult times of life to help them physically, mentally, socially

and spiritually. Through its various programs and services, they believe everyone deserves a chance to get back on their feet again.

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Walkers begin the Coldest Night of the Year charity walk in uptown Leamington on Saturday, February 24, making their way up Erie Street. SUN photos

Steve Boal, left, and Bill Dunn walked together, stopping only briefly for a photo opportunity.

Knights make $50k donation to MRI campaign

The Knights of Columbus Council #8233 (Kingsville) made a gen-

erous $50,000 donation toward helping Erie Shores Health Founda-

tion bring MRI home. The donation was inspired by the ground-

breaking of Erie Shores HealthCare’s MRI Suite last week, and was made in memory of a dear friend of the Council, Rob Repko.

Erie Shores Health Foundation (ESHF) and Erie Shores HealthCare (ESHC) hosted the groundbreaking of what will be the permanent MRI Suite with a $1 million kick-off donation from Unico and Primo Foods.

The MRI project is now halfway funded.

Upon breaking ground, ESHF and ESHC are calling on the community to be inspired and donate in any capacity to help bring the project to fruition.

For the Knights of Columbus Council #8233, this was the right cause to donate to, in honour of Rob.

“Rob trusted that we would donate the money that he left to us to the right cause. After hanging on to it for some time, we decided that bringing MRI to Erie Shores HealthCare was the worthy opportunity for us to donate the funds as it will take care of his family, our families, and the families of so many others,” shared Past Grand Knight Larry Everaert.

The Knights of Columbus has 115 active members and is focused, in good faith, on programs that better the communi-

ty. The donation became full circle as Paul Repko, Rob’s brother, and Carole Repko, mother, came down from Carole’s hospital room to witness the cheque presentation and join the Knights in the celebratory photo.

“It is such an honour to receive this donation from The Knights of Columbus alongside the members of the Council and the Repko Family,” commented Penny Bellhouse, Executive Director of Erie Shores Health Foundation. “We are so excited to bring this life-changing technology to Erie Shores HealthCare and it is this kind of unity that will get us there.”

The Knights of Columbus Council #8233 Kingsville recently made a $50,000 donation toward the MRI Suite at Erie Shores HealthCare. From left to right: Dave Gelinas, K of C Ontario State Secretary; Penny Bellhouse, Executive Director of Erie Shores Health Foundation; Kurt Phanuef; Larry Everaert, Past Grand Knight; Carole Repko; Paul Repko; Ken Bosse, Grand Knight; Bob Phanuef; Gary Smith; Wilfred Kobelsky; Kim Lewis; Kristin Kennedy, President and CEO of Erie Shores HealthCare; and Jeff Lewis, Chair of Erie Shores Health Foundation Board of Directors. Photo submitted

Minor Ball trivia night a success

Full Contact Trivia once again came away the winners of the Leamington District Minor Baseball Association’s Trivia Night 2024.

The annual tradition attracted 50 teams to the Roma Club of Leamington, where they competed for cash prizes, door prizes and bragging rights, answering trivia questions from many different categories.

Second place went to

Big Brown and his Gang of Renown on a sudden death tiebreaker question over Grocers Apostrophe’s (sic).

Full Contact Trivia scored a whopping 102 out of 120 possible points on the night, while the other two top teams each had 92.

The event began at the Roma Club in 2000 and then moved to several other locations over the years before returning to

the Roma Club this year. All proceeds go to support youth baseball in Leamington.

SENIORS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETS

The Leamington Seniors Advisory Committee held a Valentine’s Day gathering at the Leamington Half Century Centre on February 14. The group gets together regularly with public events designed to get feedback and suggestions from local residents, while also having fun. On Valentine’s Day, those in attendance were treated to a game or two of ‘Telephone’ where a phrase is given to one person at the table and they whisper it to the next and so on. The phrase uttered at the end is usually nothing like the phrase that started out the game. Here participants prepare to get the game going, including members of the committee and Leamington’s Mayor and Deputy Mayor — Hilda MacDonald and Larry Verbeke. SUN photo

BUYING? SELLING? CALL ME.

The members of Full Contact Trivia pose with their winnings at the annual LDMBA Trivia Night, held at the Roma Club on February 21. From left are Jack Ramieri, William Donnelly, Leisa Niemi and Stan Chacko. SUN photo

I wasted a package of spaghetti last week.

In my attempt to carry all my groceries from the car in one trip (sans bag), the spaghetti bit the dust — or rather the asphalt — when it slipped out of my arms. The end of the package opened on impact and spilled the noodles out onto the ground.

It wouldn’t have been so bad, but my lovely wife was waiting inside with the water already boiling for said spaghetti dinner.

So, back to the nearest grocery store I went — where I paid twice as much for the same package of spaghetti as I had at

the previous store.

Why, you ask?

Because nobody has bags anymore — and I’m too forgetful to have the bags in my car, or even if they’re in the car, I usually forget them there.

When the powers-that-be decided to begin the parade away from single-use plastics a few years back, I was hoping that all of these stores would go back in time to the good old-fashioned paper grocery bags.

And yes, I’m aware that paper bags also create an environmental problem due to the use of trees to create them, but have to be much less harmful to the envi-

School teacher’s 1936 Chevy

If you attended Mount Carmel School north of Leamington around 1942, you might have seen music supervisor Tena Mifflin pull into the teachers’ parking lot behind the wheel of her green 1936 Chevrolet coupe with a milk pail hanging from the front bumper.

Tena sent me her story many years ago: “To prove my good driving habits to my older brother, I told him about the time Dad had set his prize stainless steel milk

pail on the front bumper of my car. Not knowing it was there, I drove from home three miles north of Wheatley over bumpy potholes on gravel roads and around many a turn and corner before reaching Mount Carmel. I shall never forget the surprise I got while walking into the school and seeing my dad’s milk pail still hanging from the front bumper!

THE OLD CAR DETECTIVE

Bill Sherk

‘Alvira’ was the going-away car for my brother’s wedding in 1942. Two years later, my husband and I drove Alvira on our honeymoon. After we were married, I sold Alvira for $250. I hated to see her go but the money paid for most of our new furniture.”

“My car nicknamed

ronment than the plastic ones.

As an old grocery bagger myself, I never cared for the plastic bags.

In 1984, when I left the grocery business, plastic grocery bags were just becoming a thing and I didn’t like packing them. To this day, if you give me a square paper grocery bag, I will fill that bugger to the brim and it will stand up on its own and be simple to carry.

In 1980, when I took my first grocery job, we spent considerable time learning how to pack those bags properly — heavies on the bottom, then mid-weights and then bread and chips on top. And be careful with the eggs.

That all came crashing down a few years later as plastic bags came into the forefront.

Now, the plastic bags are all but gone, but so are the paper.

You may ask, “why don’t you use reusable bags?”

Well, I do, when I remember them. Most often, I don’t.

If you’re like me, you’ve got an entire collection of reusable bags that you paid 99 cents for in several different stores, many of which sit in a closet or cupboard and never see the light of day again.

I’ve got enough cloth and synthetic reusable bags to build a tent and spend a week camping at Wheatley Provincial Park —provided I could gather enough groceries in my bare arms to get me through the week.

I’m usually pretty good at balancing three or four items in my arms and being able to get to the checkout like that and then being able to pick the items back up and get to my car afterwards.

RIB’S RAMBLINGS

Mark Ribble

It’s like a human game of Tetris combined with Jenga and a little bit of Twister thrown in.

Usually, I make it to the car without dropping anything, but all the way out, I’m cursing the bag gods.

I know that eliminating plastic bags is a good thing overall, but when we have to carry out a six pack of plastic coke bottles with plastic lids, held together with a plastic yoke for carrying, doesn’t it defeat the purpose?

That sentiment also goes for the cardboard straws.

We are consumers of Kool-Aid Jammers for when the grandkids visit, and recently they’ve changed those tiny little straws to paper ones.

So, the Jammer itself is in a foil-plastic pouch, with the straw attached to the back of the plastic pouch — in another plastic sleeve. The straw, which used to be plastic, was then removed from the sleeve and punched through a pre-positioned hole in the front of the drink.

Well, now the straws are made of paper, which renders them useless because they bend and break down as soon as you try to punch them.

So, huge fail on Kool-Aid’s part.

I know these are first-world problems and there are people in third-world countries who would love to have these issues, but as we get older, we get crankier and nothing makes me crankier than dropping my spaghetti on the ground.

What’s that you say, Mrs. Robinson?

Looking back on February 28, 1970, Simon & Garfunkel’s biggest hit ever, “Bridge Over Troubled Water”, started its six-week domination at the top of Billboard’s Hot 100 Singles Chart. It was also the title song on Paul and Arthur’s fifth and final studio album.

Along with having Garfunkel’s angelic vocals, the famed west coast musicians’ group, known as the Wrecking Crew, from Los Angeles, gave it that distinctive Wall of Sound instrumentation. In fact, some critics have said that the Wrecking Crew, with its incredibly talented group of musicians, deserve much credit for helping Simon & Garfunkel win five Grammy Awards that year, including Record and Song of the Year.

But did it matter who the musicians were? Without a doubt, Paul Simon’s lyrics in many of his songs, like Bridge Over Troubled Waters, also be-

came immortal. In the case of ‘Bridge’, it’s one of the most performed songs of the 20th century with notable recordings by Johnny Cash, Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley, just to name a few. Let me go a step further and add Art Garfunkel’s name to that list, as his pristine vocals put him ahead of just about all of his contemporaries.

FLASHBACK RADIO

with Chuck Reynolds

all. Apparently, over the years, between the times they sang together at concerts or in the studios, they had little to no interaction and hardly saw each other outside the studio.

However, on the dark side, behind the scenes, it was troubling to know that, at times, there was much friction between Simon & Garfunkel over the years. And that allegedly carried over during the making of their last album together. As one source reported, “Their partnership has had periods of tension and estrangement.”

For reasons unknown, Paul didn’t seem to tolerate his singing partner Garfunkel, hardly at

But recently, after having read other articles and sources of note, I saw a different view of the twosome where the friction between them was possibly exaggerated or overplayed. Also, from time to time I’ve tuned into some programs featuring Howard Stern where he has interviewed Paul Simon. And the last one he had not too long ago, Paul acknowledged that despite their ups and downs it’s not as bad as it’s been made out to be and that he and Arthur will always be connected. Amen.

1936 Chevrolet coupe: “honeymoon car”.

Gas alarms distributed to residents in Wheatley

Last week, ChathamKent Fire & Rescue went door-to-door distributing multi-gas alarms to households in Wheatley.

As of Friday, February 23, Chatham-Kent firefighters and volunteers had distributed 440 alarms and have visited over 500 houses.

Door-to-door distribution resumed this week to continue meeting the demand.

Residents outside the evacuation zone can pick up a multi-gas alarm at the Wheatley Resource Centre, open Monday to Friday 9 am-5 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm, located at 108 Talbot Road East.

“So far, we’ve been met with an excellent response from the community,” said Assistant Fire Chief Neil Woods. “These alarms were specifically

chosen for the efficacy in detecting the active gases in the community and offer the people of Wheatley an extra measure of safety and peace of mind that they deserve.”

The alarms being distributed were chosen specifically for Wheatley for their capability to detect methane gas. H2S gas occurs along with natural gas, namely methane, which is the highest risk

associated with leaking wells. H2S is readily detectable by its odour at very low concentrations, while methane is odourless and colourless and an explosive mixture can build up in enclosed spaces, leading to explosion.

The alarms are being paid for using a provincial grant from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, who provided $280,000 in funding to implement local priority projects to enhance emergency preparedness within its communities and

prevent petroleum-related emergencies.

If you detect or suspect

gas in your home, call 911 immediately.

Firefighter Matt Scott, left, helps Captain Brian Cobby distribute gas alarms door-todoor in Wheatley last week. Photos submitted

Captain Wayne Harris poses with the Kidde gas alarms being distributed last week in Wheatley.

One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest to hit the stage at The Bank Theatre

The Bank Theatre will present One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest in April, with eight shows planned.

One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest is by Dale Wasserman, based on the novel by Ken Kesey and is directed by Corey Robertson. Auditions were held in January, the cast has been chosen and rehearsals are fully underway.

“This is a very strong cast featuring actors that are both familiar with, and new to, The Bank Theatre stage,” said Corey Robertson. “The diversity of actors is noticeable in the age range as well as those who are seasoned and those who are appearing on stage for the first time.”

“One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest was published in 1962 and features derogatory depictions of gender, race, sexuality and mental health that we know were wrong then, and we know are wrong now,” he added.

“The play is being presented in the original manner and dialogue as

In Loving Memory of our dear Mom and Baba Christina (tena)

Myronyk

Who passed away 15 years ago, March 5, 2009

written in hopes that we see how important it is not to go back to those ways, to appreciate how far we’ve come, and to acknowledge how much further we need to go,” said Robertson.

“We are really happy to present this as our first theatrical production of 2024,” said Paul Medeiros, Chair of Programming and Vice President at The Bank Theatre. “This play will leave people thinking about the stigma of mental health, then and now. It will give us pause to remember that even though mental health has very specific needs and challenges, we can all help to overcome the stigmas, enabling better care for those afflicted.”

The cast includes the patients, Randle Patrick McMurphy (Dean Valentino), Chief Bromden (Mark Ribble), Dale Harding (Chris Lanspeary), Billy Bibbit (Logan Quiring), Cheswick (Monica Gustafson), Martini (Noah Simpson), Scanlon (David Murphy), Ruckley (Don Mills). The staff: Nurse Ratched (Jane

Toppi), Doctor Spivey (Mike Ross), Aide Williams (Chris Harkness), Aide Warren (David Medrano), Aide Turkle (Doug Biekx).

Other Characters: Candy Star (Melissa Scott), Sandra (Tina Schroeder), TV Announcer Voice (Corey Robertson).

The production is sponsored by The Bank Theatre, the Municipality of Leamington and Chances Leamington.

Performance dates are April 12, 13, 19, 20 at 7:30 pm, and April 13, 14, 20, 21, all matinees at 2 pm. Doors open 30 minutes before the show starts.

Viewer discretion is advised.

Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office on Thursdays through Saturdays from 11 am-1 pm, at the door 30 minutes before show time, or online at banktheatre.com

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.

grandkids

Director Corey Robertson helps Logan Quiring with a straight jacket, right, while castmates look on. From left are Chris Lanspeary, Don Mills and Dean Valentino.

Robertson shares a laugh with actors Tina Schroeder and Doug Biekx as they work with the ‘drinking props’ for One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest.

Director Corey Robertson, right, has a lively discussion with his cast, from left, seated are Chris Harkness, Monica Gustafson, Mike Ross, Jane Toppi. In the background are David Murphy and Mark Ribble. Photos courtesy of The Bank Theatre

Leamington wants public input on logo for 150th celebration

The Municipality of Leamington is asking for the public’s opinion in choosing a logo for its upcoming 150th celebration.

Four prospective logos have been produced and

the municipality’s website will allow the public to log on and vote for their favourite.

“As we commemorate this significant milestone, it’s important that our

symbol of celebration resonates with the community and encapsulates the essence of Leamington’s 150-year journey,” said a news release issued last week. “The proposed logo

Wheatley Legion News

There were 24 players out for Friday Night Fun

Darts on Feb. 23.

Recording six wins were Sherry Chambers, Karl Bartelt and Glenn Brooker. Five wins Terry Harris and Brad Lutz.

Four wins: Jean Teyiouni, Julie Carder and Jim McClellan; Virginia Bartelt, Larry Evoy and Doug Stevenson; Lynn Scott, Dave Leili and Cookie Klooster. Two wins: Amy Kendall, Gord Crook and Dennis Kiss. One win: Karin Kingswood, Laura Smith and Neil Handspiker; Julie Reid, Bonnie

Evoy and Barry Bartelt.

Lady doublers were Terry, Jean, Virginia, Amy and Karin. Brad shot 180 – good shooting, Brad!

Jean helped beat husband Gord, who again had to walk the walk of shame.

All are welcome to join the fun on Friday night at Kingsville Legion. Signup is at 7 p.m. and play starts at 7:15.

Meat Draw winners on Feb. 24 were Mary Ann Guyitt (3), Sandy Simpson, Teresa Grieve, Roger Lamb, Samantha Corless, Pennie Hyatt, Diane Clark, Scott Dresser and

Charlie Hyatt. The L.A. 50/50 winner was Sherry Chambers.

The next Meat Draw is Saturday, March 2 at Lil Hil’s Coffee Shop. Tickets go on sale at 3 p.m. with draws starting at 3:30.

Comber Legion is hosting a Euchre Tournament & Pasta Dinner Fundraiser on Sunday, March 24 starting at 2 p.m. with dinner to follow and cash prizes. This tournament is open to everyone. Sign up in advance at Comber Legion. Proceeds go to Ladies Auxiliary Br. 241 Sports.

for Schedule C projects as outlined in the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (October 2000, as amended in 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2023), which is approved under the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act.

Consultation with stakeholders is a key component of the Study process and input will be sought throughout the Study. There will be two (2) Public

Consultation Centre (PCC) events. The first event took place on November 22nd and shared information about the alternative solutions. The second PCC is being held on

options are each a mosaic of Leamington’s diverse and unique features, each element narrating a part of our town’s story.”

The logo has elements of water, symbolizing Leamington’s location on the shores of Lake Erie. It also has elements of a green plant, which symbolizes Leamington’s rural roots and represents

the rich agricultural heritage of the municipality.

A monarch butterfly is also included in the logo designs, which symbolizes the migration that Leamington witnesses every year.

Last, but not least, is the inclusion of birds, which illustrates the annual migration and the draw for tourists to the area during

those migration seasons.

The chosen logo will be prominently featured on a range of merchandise for the 150th celebrations.

The official celebrations are expected to encompass most of July, but dates have yet to be set for events.

You can vote for your favourite logo at leamington.ca/150

Union Avenue, Ruthven).

As a next step in the Class EA process, alternative design concepts within this solution have been identified and evaluated. The Class EA Study is following a comprehensive, sound and open planning process to ensure the study objectives are met, and impacts to the protection of the environment, as well as public health and safety, are considered.

THE PROCESS

This notice provides an update on the progress of the Municipal Class EA Study, a study which will define the problem, identify and evaluate alternative solutions, and subsequently identify and evaluate alternative concepts for this preferred solution in consultation with regulatory agencies, indigenous communities, members of the local business community, and the public.

The Class EA Study is being carried out in accordance with the planning and design process

Information

The four logos created by the Municipality of Leamington for the 150th anniversary celebration. You can vote for your favourite by visiting leamington.ca/150

Home invasion in Leamington

On Saturday, February 24 at approximately 5:46 p.m., the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Leamington Detachment responded to an emergency 9-1-1 call for a home invasion at a Talbot Street West, Leamington address.

It was determined that three individuals attended a residence and forcibly gained entry. Once inside, two occupants of the home were assaulted

by the suspects. The three suspects then fled from the home into a white four-door pickup truck.

Officers attended the address and searched the area; however, the suspects and vehicle were not located. The suspects involved in this incident were described to police as: #1 tall white male, green or yellow construction vest, dark boots, light brown hair, brown

eyes; #2 tall white male, dark brown hair, medium build; #3 short white male, medium build.

Both victims were transported to hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigators believe that this is not a random but rather a targeted incident that remains under investigation. The OPP reminds all members of the public to always be aware of their personal safety at

Russell Henry Quick

Russell Henry Quick, age 97, was called home by his Lord and Savior on Sunday, February 25, 2024.

Dad was born on December 18, 1926 at Gosfield South to Enos and Grace Quick. He was the second oldest of eight children. He was married for just shy of 76 years to the love of his life, Elizabeth “Bessie” MacIntosh, “his Scottish lass”, as he often called her. Together they raised four daughters, whom he always lovingly called “my girls”, Linda Townsend (late Tom), Sherry Omstead (Ron), Laura Bartel (Len), Lorie Neufeld (late Ken). Dad is the very proud grandfather of nine grandchildren, Heidi Rempel (Clinton), Jarrod Omstead (Lauren), Adam Townsend (Meghan), Jeremy Bartel (Melissa), Shealyn Snoei (Matt), Christopher Bartel, Kimberly Bartel, Ryan Neufeld, Brittany Grunland (Rob), and 12 great-grandchildren. He always made each one of them feel like they were his favorite, but in truth Dad had no favorites, he adored them all.

Dad is survived by his youngest sister, Marjorie Enns (Doug). Dad grew up in the Hillman Marsh area where he would explore, hunt and fish to his heart’s desire. He often referred to it as a young boy’s paradise. This is where he developed his deep love of nature and appreciation for all of God’s creation. An appreciation that he gifted to his family through his Godly example. He loved his family and his Lord, and it was evident in all walks of his daily life.

Dad had a warm heart, a sweet smile, a solid handshake and a gift of great storytelling. He was a kind and gentle man whose presence will be greatly missed. To know him was to love him.

Dad was an employee of HJ Heinz in Leamington for 41 years. Following retirement, when not tending to his beautiful gardens, hunting and fishing on the Bruce Peninsula, traveling with mom or enjoying an afternoon coffee at McDonald’s with friends, Dad could be found researching his family tree. Without owning a computer for research and with the help of the United Empire Loyalists Association, he was able to trace his family history back to the 1700s and obtain his U.E.L. Certificate. This was not an easy feat at his age and we were all so very proud of him.

We would like to thank the Erie Shores Hospice Leamington for the comfort and care that they lavished on Dad and our family during his final few days with us. We will be forever grateful to them for their unwavering compassion. A special thank you to Dr. Thomas Burgess, Dr. Phillip Tremblay and his golden retriever Louie of the Hospice team, Dr. Glen Providence and Dr. David Eaton for your exceptional care and kindness as you guided Dad and our family through his two-year journey with Congestive Heart Failure.

Visitation will be held at Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, 519-326-2631, on Wednesday, February 28, 2024 from 6-8 p.m. Visitation will continue on Thursday, February 29, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. until time of Celebration of Life at 12 noon. A private family burial will be held at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, our family requests that all donations be made to Erie Shores Hospice Leamington.

Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

all times. The OPP website at opp.ca contains several useful resources, tips and links.

The Essex County OPP Crime Unit is continuing to investigate. Residents in the surrounding area who may have witnessed anything are asked to contact police at 1-888-3101122 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or leave an anonymous online message at www.catchcrooks.com.

Olga Lydia Muelhaupt

Olga Lydia Muelhaupt, 96 years, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 16, 2024.

Beloved wife of the late Max (2023) for 67 years.

Loving mother of Sonya Aho (Robert), Lana McDonald (Randall), Manfred Muelhaupt (Mary Deneau). Cherished Oma of Kaela (Dean), Taylor and Connor (Kylee). Great-Oma of Charlotte and Eleanor. Dear sister of the late Elvira (late Joe) and the late Erika (late John). Dear sister-in-law of the late Elizabeth and the late Clara. Dear aunt of many nieces and nephews.

Olga enjoyed cooking, spending time with her family and loved music, her favourite TV shows and puzzles. Olga was an avid Toronto Blue Jays fan. She was a faithful member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and of the Rhine Danube Club.

Proof

of obituary to run

A special thank you to the staff of Seacliff Manor, Southgate Village, Erie Shores HealthCare and Erie Shores Hospice for their care and compassion.

February 28, 2024

Southpoint Sun

As per her wishes, a private celebration of Olga’s life has taken place. Interment at Erie Memorial Gardens. Pastor Sylvia Swiatoschik officiated.

$200 plus $26 HST = $226

If desired, memorial donations made to Erie Shores Health Foundation or Erie Shores Hospice would be appreciated by contacting the Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631).

Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca

Thanks.

Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Helen Elizabeth Sellars

Our beautiful Mother, Helen Elizabeth (Prince, Oliver, Dibbley) Sellars, was welcomed into the loving arms of her Lord on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at the age of 94.

Helen was the chosen daughter of her loving parents, the late Thomas and Gladys Oliver. She is reunited with her husband Douglas (2012), her two sons Daniel (2014) (Mary) and Dana (2005), step-granddaughter Laura (2018) and her lifelong friend and cousin Roberta Wigle (2022).

Loved mother of David Dibbley (Cheryle), Deborah Neufeld (Don) and stepdaughter Kathy Shaw (Larry). Proud grandmother of Tera (Kevin), Shawn, Sarah (Rob), Michelle (BJ), Brad, Matthew (Laura). Proud GG to Griffin, Rayden, Bishop, Cyanea, Madison, Ashton and Elizabeth. Sister-in-law to Barbara Tetreault (Jacques) and Ralph Sellars (Barbara).

Mom will be remembered for her compassionate and generous spirit.

“Forever In Our Hearts.”

Sincere thanks to caregivers at Age Care Royal Oak, including Copper Beech Neighbourhood for their compassionate care, love and kindness over the last six years.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held in May.

Donations may be made to the Kingsville Food Bank or the Salvation Army.

Myna Elaine Fox

October 2, 1934 – February 16, 2024

Myna Elaine Fox passed away peacefully in her 90th year, on Friday, February 16, 2024, at Hospice - Erie Shores Campus in Leamington.

Survived by her loving husband, Noble Fox. Dear mother to Steven Fox (Jill Nicholson), Irene Fox and Alan Fox (Irene M.). Beloved grandmother to Megan Fox (Lliam Hayes) and Allyson Fox (Pearson Radu). Proud great-grandmother “GGma” to Erin Hayes. Also survived by one brother-in-law, Don Davis. Predeceased by her parents Karl and Evelyn (Dewhirst) Kreuter and her sister Lori Davis.

Elaine loved, supported and nurtured her family each and every day. She will be remembered by many nieces and nephews and extended family and friends. Elaine was a devoted teacher at Inman, Olinda, and Ruthven public schools.

Honouring Elaine’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or service. We will celebrate Elaine’s life at a later date.

Proof of obituary to run

Special thanks to the staff at Erie Shores Hospice for their incredible care.

February 28, 2024

In memory of Elaine, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Erie Shores Hospice by contacting Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631).

Southpoint Sun $200 plus $26 HST = $226

Friends and family are invited to share their words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca Thanks.

João Francisco Cabral

João Francisco “John” Cabral, 93 years, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Wednesday, February 21, 2024.

Beloved husband of Irene (nee Charamba).

Loving father of Crisalda Freitas (Joe), Rolando Cabral (Mary Pepper), Maria Ernesto (Luis), the late Irene Amaral (2001) (Manuel), Teresa Festa (late Manuel 2022), Manny Cabral, the late Amelia Cabral (1976). Cherished Vavô of Rick Freitas (Holly), Rolando James Cabral (Kimberly), Andrew Amaral (Bonnie), Emily Gerardo (Rui), Kevin Cabral, Darryl Festa (Catherine), Ramsey Ernesto (Rowena), Ashley Cabral, Amanda Amaral (Connor), Jordon Festa, Adam Amaral (Helen), Travis Festa (Stephanie), Brandon Ernesto. Bisavô of Anderson, Aiden, Levin, Gina, Asher, Austin, Zara, Amelia, Kaeden, Axton, Slate, River, Chloe, Aria, Zyla. Son of the late Jose and Maria de Gloria Cabral. Son-in-law of the late Manuel and Maria Amelia Charamba. Dear brother of the late Jacinto Cabral, Jose Cabral Jr., Alzira Cabral, Belmira Sousa. Dear brother-in-law of the late Luziar Charamba (Connie), Manuel Charamba (Aurelia), the late Eduardo Charamba (Maria). He will be missed by many nieces and nephews. John was self-employed as a bricklayer for many years. He had a love for music, he enjoyed playing the harmonica, wind instruments and entertaining people with his guitar. He enjoyed gathering with family and friends, especially if there was music and dancing involved. John liked playing cards and dominoes, but mostly enjoyed spending time with his family.

Proof

February 28, 2024

Southpoint Sun $200 plus $26 HST = $226

Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca

Thanks.

A special thank you to the staff of the Sun Parlor Home for their care, compassion and professionalism.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Sunday, February 25, 2024 from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

Visitation continued at St. Michael’s Church, 29 Elliott Street, Leamington, on Monday, February 26, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. until the Mass of the Resurrection at 10:30 a.m. Entombment at Erie Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations made by cheque to St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank would be appreciated. Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Talbot Trail interim relocation plan approved by C-K council

On Monday, February 26, Chatham-Kent Council approved the recommendation to proceed with the reconstruction/ relocation of Talbot Trail in the closed section east of Coatsworth Road to permit the Municipality to re-open this section of Talbot Trail between Coatsworth Road and Stevenson Road.

In July 2019, the section of Talbot Trail east of Coatsworth Road was closed because of the risk of slope and road failure due to the regressing/ unstable bluff slope in this area. Talbot Trail is currently only open to local traffic east of Coatsworth Road and west of Stevenson Road and is physically closed at approximately 500m east of Coatsworth Road.

As a result of this road closure, the Municipality initiated a Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Study in February 2020 to develop a long-term transportation plan for Talbot Trail, which was

completed in May 2023. The Long-Range Technically Preferred Alternative is to construct a new 2-lane rural arterial roadway from Ellerbeck Road to Stevenson Road, following the existing 2nd Concession Line. This requires significant property acquisition, road improvements, and utility relocations.

In May 2023, council further approved a motion to investigate an interim solution for this area to permit the Municipality to re-open Talbot Trail between Coatsworth Road and Stevenson Road.

At Monday’s meeting, council received a recommendation from staff to approve the interim solution of reconstructing/relocating Talbot Trail in the closed section east of Coatsworth Road. Council also approved that Mayor Darrin Canniff prepare a letter to the province requesting funding assistance for the Talbot Trail relocation

project to help mitigate the impacts of erosion, as this is a former Provincial Highway.

Following council endorsement, the Environmental Assessment Study Addendum will be finalized and notices will be sent to all property owners within the study area as well as stakeholders and agencies to notify

them of the completion of this study and initiate the 30-day review period.

Following this period, the municipality will begin detailed design for this project, with construction of these improvements planned for 2025.

Resident and business owner Kim (Robinson) Van Deven, who has been

Bruce Douglas Clarke

Bruce Clarke died peacefully on Saturday, February 24, 2004 at his Leamington senior’s residence, surrounded by his family, at 91 years of age.

Survived by his cherished wife, Ivah (nee Thompson) and their children Cameron, Timothy (Sharon) and Ellen (Larry LaBute), and grandchildren Tyler, Zachary, Thompson, Liam (Alissa, nee Reid) and Carson. Predeceased by mother Nina Healy (Lloyd), father Wesley Clarke, and siblings Wesley Clarke (Hazel) and Gwendolyn Elford (Carson).

Bruce enjoyed vacationing in Florida, spending time with family, and treasured his connection to many nieces and nephews. He is remembered for his sense of style and love of decorating. He had a gift for working with needle and thread. Bruce was an active member of St. John’s Anglican Church in Leamington, until his health declined.

Although retired many years, Bruce was a dedicated employee of the Ford Motor Company for 37 years working in Windsor, Bramalea and in the central office in Oakville.

Final arrangements are being organized by Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631).

Our family extends a personal thank you to the Reid family for their care.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life and private interment will be held later at Victoria Memorial Gardens in Windsor.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Erie Shores Hospice or the Heart & Stroke Foundation.

Friends may share memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

February 28, 2024

Southpoint Sun

$200 plus $26 HST = $226

Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca

Thanks.

vocal in trying to get the road reopened, was happy that this step has been taken.

“It will be great to have the new section of Talbot Trail along the lakeshore built and that stretch reopened,” she said. “This will be a benefit to all of southwestern Ontario.

This idea was developed in the 1960-70s, and it is finally coming to fruition. I would like to thank our highway committee and CK councillors and engineers for working on the plan for the new section with us. The next project will be about lakeshore protection.”

Southern Chaarmzz Boutique officially opens in Kingsville

By Paul Forman

Marita

Dobson

and her daughter Kiana have officially opened Kingsville’s newest men’s and women’s clothing store, Southern Chaarmzz Boutique. Offering upscale fash-

ion at reasonable prices, the Dobsons’ newest venture can be found at 25 Main Street West Unit 1 in downtown Kingsville. Original pieces from all over Europe and the USA can be found in the boutique that officially opened on Monday, February 26. The store prides itself on welcoming customers with a warm, southern vibe as the public is invited to peruse brands such as b.young, ICHI and Fransa.

Southern Chaarmzz Boutique is open six days a week, Monday 10 am to 4 pm, Tuesday 10 am to 5 pm, Wednesday and Thursday 10 am to 6 pm, and Friday and Saturday

from 10 am to 5 pm. Further information about this new business can be found on Facebook (‘Southern Chaarmzz’) and Instagram (@southernchaarmzz).

The following are the top-scoring teams in recent Bridge games at the Leamington Half Century Centre.

Feb. 23: 1st Case Mulder and Derek Parry, 2nd Bob Lee and Henry Hildebrandt, 3rd Al Morrison and Frank Duransky.

Feb. 26: North/South - 1st Henry Hildebrandt and Bob Lee, 2nd Roger Cote and Pauline Mikolash, 3rd Marie Ellwood and Remi Fournier. East/West - 1st Rowe Deans and Mac Stanley, 2nd Shirley Morel and Al Morrison, 3rd Sally Bell and Bob Bell.

Southern Chaarmzz Boutique held their ribbon-cutting ceremony on

February 23. Pictured, in centre is

Kiana Dobson in tan pantsuit, Essex Member of Parliament Chris Lewis, Marita Dobson in pink pantsuit, along with supporters and town officials. SUN photos by Paul Forman

Pictured inside their new clothing store are Southern Chaarmzz Boutique owners, Marita Dobson on the left and Kiana Dobson on the right.

Looking back ...

From the Leamington Post February 29, 1968

Leamington has joined the chorus of protests against the Ontario government’s proposal to amalgamate all public and secondary school boards into county units on January 1, 1969. Town Council endorsed a resolution supported by the councils and school board of Oxford, Perth, Waterloo and Elgin counties, which attacked jurisdictions as completely unacceptable. The resolution suggested there might be a hidden motive whereby the consolidation of some 1,500 boards into 100 or less will place more power into the hands of paid civil servants and less in the hands of elected representatives.

Care of long-stay patients at the Leamington District Memorial Hospital will be examined at a conference scheduled for March 6. Hospital Administrator J.C. Robertson said Tuesday that a representative of the Ontario Hospital Services Commission would be on hand to outline policy guidelines. The 35-bed wing designed to accommodate the chronically ill was included in the recent $2.5 million expansion programs at the hospital.

There will be more seats available for spectators at softball games at the Leamington Fairgrounds this summer. Town Council has called for tenders on half a dozen 16-foot bleacher sections for use at the softball diamond and the Kinsmen Community Swimming Pool. It’s expected the unit will cost about $100 each.

Spokesmen for the Leamington Flyers said this week they were more concerned about the behaviour of some of their home game supporters during the last month of the season than about the lacklustre performance of the team in the OHA Jr. B League. They said half a dozen “punks and thugs” threatened to turn the last couple of home games into donnybrooks. An incident at last Thursday’s game with Sarnia was cited as a case in point. One spectator invaded the penalty box to get at a Sarnia player there and a brawl followed. Visiting teams have been harassed by a steady stream of invective from youths who station themselves behind the visitor’s bench. Pucks have been hurled at opposing players and at the referees.

The Leamington Public Utilities Commission presented study lamps last week to four local winners of public speaking contests sponsored jointly by the Ontario Association of School Trustees and Municipal Councillors and Ontario Hydro. Among those four winners were Brendan Wood of St. Michael’s Separate School, Gary Froese of Mill Street Centennial School, Lori Munce of LDSS and Bill Paterson of LDSS.

From the Kingsville Reporter

February 29, 1968

Last week, two members of the First

Kingsville Sea Scouts were awarded Queen’s Scout honours at a ceremony held at the Scout Hall. Assistant Scoutmaster Eugene Lacey and Sea Scoutmaster Philip Cowell were both on hand to pin the gold cord on Sea Scout Robert Gallagher and Sea Scout John Gilbert.

Over 600 people attended the International Youth Symphony Orchestra concert at the Kingsville District High School auditorium Sunday afternoon. The orchestra, under the baton of the well-known conductor Matti Holli, is comprised of young people from Windsor and Detroit. The featured artist was Miss Jacqueline O’Donnell at the piano, a former local high school student.

High marks were awarded to three Kingsville District High School students at Chatham last week where the district secondary school competitions for typing were held. John Gale received the top senior honour, while Linda McLean finished second to John in the same division. Carole McKenzie placed second in the junior division. Linda McLean finished second in the junior division.

A curling foursome from Kingsville will compete in the upcoming Windsor Star Tri-County Bonspiel. Joe Pindera is the skip, with Mac Cox vice skip. Dewey Wiseman is the second and Hugh Murray is the lead. The team defeated Scott Putman to qualify and have their sights set on Leamington’s Ian Adamson heading into the bonspiel.

From the Wheatley Journal

February 9, 1899: Mr. Vizzard, Brigden, who has purchased the flour mill from D. Omstead, will take possession the 1st of March.

April 17, 1899: The new spire on the Methodist Church is almost completed and is a very suitable adornment for our village church which is undergoing a general repair. When finished we shall have as neat a church as can be found in Western Ontario.

November 2, 1899: There are few men more wide awake and enterprising than the Wheatley Drug Store who spare no pains to secure the best of everything in their line for their many customers. They now have the agency for Dr. King’s New Discovery, which surely cures consumption, coughs and colds. This is the wonderful remedy that is now producing so much excitement all over the country, by its many startling cures. It absolutely cures Asthma, Bronchitis, Nausea, and all affections of the Throat, Chest and Lungs. You can test it before buying, by calling at the above Drug Store and get a trial bottle free, or regular size for 50¢ and $1.00. Guaranteed to cure or price refunded.

Photos from Kingsville-Gosfield Heritage Society 1790-2000 A Stroll Through Time

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

cents a ride for summer visitors renting a cabin or for cottagers not owning a boat.

The boats

Lake Erie.

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

Past courtesy of the C. Scott Holland Collection

Clippings from the Wheatley Journal, May 1989

from the Wheatley Journal

February 1994 - the UMEI Alumni

will be presenting “The Sound of Music” on February 18, 19, 25 and 26 in the UMEI Auditorium. In the

“One

their

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!

could be taken through the placid canal or out into the rougher waters of

This photograph of an unidentified family, standing outside the Cedar Beach Drug Store, was taken in the late 1940s or early 1950s.

Clippings

Photo courtesy of the Kingsville Archives

Leamington’s

Players

scene above the VonTrapp family is singing

of

favourite things...”. Pictured seated Erin Dick, Danielle Dick, Marilyn Winter, Tim Dick; standing Kristy Segedin, Kristen Giesbrecht, Steve Krueger, Paul Dueck and Jennifer Tiessen.

The old Kingsville Public School, from the rear, 27 Feb 1941.

Last spike WELS - It took a year to build after decades of debate but in April 1909 the last spike of the Windsor, Essex and Lake Shore electric railway line connecting Leamington to Windsor was completed at the centre of Leamington. During its peak the railway line would transport over 100,000 during WW1 to and from Windsor. The line remained active until 1932.

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PERSONALS

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE: May

the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, help for the hopeless, pray for us. St. Jude, maker of miracles, pray for us. Say this prayer nine times a day, and by the eighth day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. B.M. fe7-mr6

PRAYER TO THE HOLY

SPIRIT: Holy Spirit, you who make me see everything, and who show me the way to reach my ideal, you who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you, no matter how great the material desire may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. Amen. Persons may pray this prayer three consecutive days without asking for their wish. After the third day, your wish will be granted no matter how difficult it may be, and promise to publish this dialogue as soon as your favour has been granted. B.M. fe7-mr6

Flyers drop three-in-a-row as season winds down

By C. Scott Holland

As the Leamington Flyers sought to keep pace with the second-place Milton Menace, the visiting Buffalo Sabres had other ideas in mind, and when the final buzzer sounded last Thursday, Feb. 15, the Jr. Sabres had claimed a 3-1 victory over Leamington.

A crowd of 850 fans watched as Buffalo notched two first-period goals, which set the stage as the Flyers fell behind and struggled, despite closing the gap in the middle frame.

The team’s skid continued after a 4-2 regulation loss at Burlington Friday and a 4-3 overtime loss to Oakville here on Sunday. Starting goalie Carson

Barnes fell victim to a sharp-angle Sabres’ shot 80 seconds into the contest on Thursday, which came during a Flyers’ powerplay. That one tally set the tone for the remainder of the contest. Midway through the opening period, the Sabres’ offense reaped a second goal when Cameron Doran plucked a rebound while on Barnes’ doorstep and stuffed it into the net’s open side for a 2-0 edge.

The entire second period featured a series of battles along the boards and corners for possession of the puck. The two squads didn’t muster many shots on net as Barnes and starting Buffalo goalie Aiden Mckenna each made only four saves.

The Flyers did look better in the second than in the opening period and had a golden opportunity at 7:12 with a five-on-three powerplay. Cam Arquette and Matthew Thomas hooked passes before Anthony Ciaramitaro whipped a screen shot from the top of the slot that skipped past several bodies and into the Buffalo net, making it 2-1.

A primary factor in the loss was Leamington’s inability to convert on the powerplay. They went one-for-seven while the Flyers’ defense did a good job and kept Buffalo’s man-advantage scoreless in five attempts.

In the third period, Buffalo got an insurance goal at 4:20 when a Flyers player fell to the ice and lost

the puck while moving it out of their zone. Down by the pair of goals, the Flyers lifted Barnes with three minutes left in an attempt to knot the contest. However, Buffalo’s defense stood their ground and kept the Flyers from scoring.

the Oakville Blades, the two teams played a scoreless first period before the Flyers grabbed a 3-1 lead. But Oakville knotted the game in the third to send it to overtime. The Blades won it 4-3 midway through the second OT session.

Matthew Thomas, Chris O’Flaherty and Marquise Brown scored for the Flyers. Gatto took the loss, stopping 35 of 39 shots.

The Flyers wrap up the home portion of their regular season Thursday when they host Wellington.

The home-ice loss was their first since an overtime loss a few weeks ago.

Friday night at Burlington, the Flyers and Cougars were knotted 2-2 after 40 minutes but the Cougars tabbed two in the third for a 4-2 win. Jason Daraiche and Anthony Ciaramitaro notched the Flyers’ goals. Sebastian Gatto took the loss, halting 28 of 32 shots.

Back at home for a rare Sunday night game versus

Flyer Brayden Degelas has just whipped a shot from the slot that is snagged by Buffalo goaltender Aiden Mckenna, while captain Cayden Faust sets himself to pounce on a rebound during last Thursday’s 3-1 loss here. Scott Holland photo

Local skater in Calgary for Special Olympics

By Deanna Bertrand

The excitement is mounting for local 15-year-old skater Breanna Williams, as she is set to compete in her first Special Olympics Canada Winter Games (SOCWG), on now until March 2 in Calgary.

Williams trains with the Leamington Skating Club and is the only skater from Essex County to qualify for the 2024 National Special Olympic Games after medalling in a series of provincial skating competitions.

She was out for a final

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practice session Sunday afternoon, February 25, on the Unico rink at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre in Leamington before she left for Calgary on Monday.

She could barely contain her excitement as she warmed up and performed a run-through of her routine to Austin Powers.

“I am just excited to be there,” said a smiling Williams as she took a brief break at the boards.

She said she started skating when she was only four-and-a-half and has loved it ever since.

Breanna said skating has allowed her to meet many new friends while chasing her Olympic dreams of winning gold.

Coach Laurie Horne-Klassen said that if she represents well in Calgary she could go on to the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Torino, Italy, in 2025.

Horne-Klassen also commented that there had been a lot of community support and fundraising involved, which has aided in the cost of the trip to Calgary.

Breanna is supported by the John McGivney Children’s Centre in Windsor, where she is a long-time client.

“We have watched Breanna grow from a little girl into the remarkably determined and talented young woman she is today,” says Jennifer Jovanovski, CEO, John McGivney Children’s Centre.

“Breanna continues to set goals for herself that many of us could only dream of. She works extremely hard

to rise above any obstacles that stand in the way of achieving her goals. We are so thrilled for Breanna and will be cheering her on!”

More than 1,250 athletes and coaches will be in Calgary for the Special

Olympics Canada Winter Games, which can be livestreamed from the national website at specialolympics.ca.

The SOCWG includes eight sports: floor hockey, alpine skiing, 5-pin bowling, figure skating, speed

skating and curling. Breanna will compete in the figure skating scheduled for Thursday between 3:35 and 3:55 pm (Mountain Time) and again on Friday at 6:45 pm (Mountain Time) for her Freeskate.

Breanna Williams practices at the Unico rink in Leamington on Sunday afternoon just prior to heading for the Special Olympics Canadian Winter Games in Calgary.

photos

Lindsay tournament this weekend

The annual Keith Lindsay Memorial Hockey Tournament takes place in Leamington this weekend with 36 female local-league teams competing for titles across five

divisions. The tournament will field divisions in U9, U11, U13, U15 and U22, with the only Southpoint entry skating in the U22 division. The tournament kicks off Friday, March 1 at 8 am as the Essex Thunder U11 takes on the Tecumseh Tigercats, and wraps up with the U22 championship game on Sunday, March 3 at 4:30

Both the Highbury and Unico rinks are fully booked throughout the three-day event.

The biggest division is the U13 division with a total of 10 teams competing, ranging from local squads like South County and Essex, to more remote teams from Lucan and Woolwich.

A full schedule is available at essex-southpoint. com.

wheatleyareaminorsoccer.sportngin.com

SUN

by Deanna Bertrand

BREANNA WILLIAMS

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to time management.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Take a few days off from work if you find you have been running yourself ragged, Aries. The pressure to be the best may have gotten to you and you need a rest.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Powering through a situation sometimes works, but not if you are feeling ill or injured, Taurus. Prioritize your health right now and take a step back if need be.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, there are always two sides to every story, so resist the urge to weigh in on a situation between friends right now. Get all of the information first and then stay neutral.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Listen to someone’s feelings when they come to you and try to vent, Cancer. Exhibit some patience and help this person work through his or her issues.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

A great opportunity is coming down the pike, Leo. You will have to get your timing correct to maximize its impact on your life. Organize all of the elements you can control.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Advice from a loved one prompts you to reevaluate your plans for the coming weeks, Virgo. Step away from the situation to see how things might work.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

It is important to take the reins this week, Libra, particularly if you want to get noticed by those in positions of power. You need to be your own best advocate.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Sometimes the hardest thing to do in a situation is to stay silent when you don’t agree with things, Scorpio. Keep in mind that others may not be ready to hear your advice.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Take ownership of any mistakes you have made and learn from them this week, Sagittarius. That is the only way you can grow as a person and make a difference in others’ lives.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, are you ready to accept the consequences of your actions? If you go out on your own path when others are warning against it, you will need to confront the consequences on your own.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, you may be ready to make a big move in your life, but others may not be there with you just yet. You need to find the timing that works for as many as possible.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, it may not be possible to put blinders on for every situation. However, sometimes it is adviseable to look the other way in the name of keeping the peace.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

FEBRUARY 25 - Sean Astin, Actor (53)

FEBRUARY 26 - Nate Ruess, Singer (42)

FEBRUARY 27 Josh Groban, Singer (43)

FEBRUARY 28 - Kelly Bishop, Actress (80)

FEBRUARY 29 Ja Rule, Rapper (48)

MARCH 1 - Jensen Ackles, Actor (46)

MARCH 2 Luke Combs, Singer (34)

Memories of Leamington... celebrating 150 years Former resident has great memories

So many great memories. We walked across the gravel pit to Queen of Peace school – happy, carefree days.

Looking back, although we found principal Mr. Hume at LDSS to be very strict, he taught us discipline and respect. Mrs. Robinson instilled a love of history and to this day my favourite novels are history based. I miss the walk from school to

Woolworth for my apple dumpling at lunchtime.

Work was plentiful with the surrounding farms and great times as an A&W carhop! Heinz provided good employment for both our parents and a very comfortable retirement. Lake Erie in our backyard where I learned to swim, and Point Pelee and Seacliff Park for all of our family reunions.

My first date was roller

skating at Caspar’s Pavilion.

Thanks to our dad convincing the board of directors of the Rhine Danube Club to give the “Blue Flame” a try was exciting. Many wonderful experiences at the Rhine Danube Club including wedding receptions (my own included) and the LDSS high school reunion.

Martha Berze, London

Midget hockey team won championship 50 years ago

By Mark Ribble

As Leamington celebrates its sesquicentennial this year, the thoughts of many local residents go back to the 1974 centennial celebration that encompassed a plethora of events throughout the summer of 1974.

But mere months before that summer of ’74, the Leamington Legion Major Midget hockey team had a celebration of their own by winning the Ontario Minor Hockey Association AA Major Midget championship in fine fashion.

For Rick Robinson, a member of that team, the memories were sparked by the mention of this year’s celebration.

Now a retired grandfather, who still laces up the skates occasionally, Robinson has fond memories of his teammates and how they brought the Herb Parker trophy home to Leamington.

And although they won the final series seven points to one, it was a very tight series. The Leamington crew actually didn’t lose a game in the sixpoint series, but three of the four games went into

overtime.

Their opponents — Owen Sound — gave them everything they could handle, with the first two games played in Leamington and the locals coming out on top 3-2 and 4-3.

A 2-2 tie on Saturday, April 13 set the stage the next day in Owen Sound for the ultimate championship game. Sitting with a 5-1 point lead in the series, Leamington needed only a tie to take the title.

With their backs against the wall, Owen Sound came out like gangbusters and took a 2-0 lead on the Legion squad, holding that until about five minutes remained in the game.

Legion had outskated, outshot and outhit their opponents but still trailed 2-0 as time ticked away on the clock.

With time running out, Bob Chapman, with a couple of Owen Sound players draped all over him, finally solved Owen Sound goaltender Terry Penner, on a set-up from John Wladarski.

Then Mark Matheson got the equalizer with just under three minutes left,

from Paul Dunmore and Ward Hutchins.

The overtimes in those days were played a full 10 minutes, regardless of who scored. If it remained tied after the 10-minute overtime period, the final was a tie game.

In this case, Leamington poured it on with Wladarski scoring just over a minute into overtime.

John Emerson scored what would prove to be the winning goal from John MacKinnon and Dave Reid just 42 seconds later.

After an Owen Sound goal to bring the score to 4-3, Leamington got two empty-net goals in the final minute — one each from Dennis Koestler and Dennis Bonnett — to claim the championship.

Robinson says he’s run into a few of his teammates in recent weeks and the 50th anniversary of their championship is not lost on them.

“Hard to believe it’s been 50 years,” he said. His father Don was the coach of the team and John McKinnon Sr. was the manager, with young Randy Robinson as the stick boy.

Bob

The Leamington Centennial Legion Midgets after winning the 1973-74 OMHA AA title. Back row, from left, are Dennis Bonnett, Mark Matheson, John Wladarski, Paul Dunmore, Jim Whittle, Ward Hutchins, Roger Lamb. Middle row: John MacKinnon,

Chapman, Brian Brown (stats), Randy Robinson (stick boy), Tom Dickson (arena manager), Rick Robinson, Dennis Koestler. Front row: Paul Anthony, Jerry Knox, Don Robinson (coach), John Emerson, John MacKinnon Sr. (manager), Dave Reid, Nick Koppert.

Photo courtesy of Rick Robinson

By Greg Coulter

With the Sharks’ first round playoff opponent already determined, they looked to carry some of their recent success into the post season.

At home last Wednesday, February 21, led by a 45-15 shot advantage,

Sharks close out regular season with win, loss Community Calendar

the Sharks overpowered Dresden 6-0. Led by the BAM trio of Kyle Bleau, Vito Alfano and Brayden Metcalfe, the game was put out of reach with a four-goals-in-five-minutes barrage in the middle period. Metcalfe earned a nat-

ural hattrick with Alfano adding one goal. Alfano and Bleau assisted on all three Metcalfe tallies. Ethan Hamelin and Evan Cote rounded out the scoresheet. Jaxon Drysdale got the shutout on a slow night.

Friday in Lakeshore,

first place was on the line for the home team and they squeezed out a 4-1 victory with two third period power play tallies.

Ethan Handley put in a solid 31-save performance with the Sharks getting 32 on net. Hamelin tied the score on a power

play early in the second but the offence stalled after that.

“We have a big task ahead of us,” said head coach Josh Carnevale. “Our opponents have one of the league’s premier goalies. With a total team work ethic every shift of

every game we have the ability to have a deep playoff run.”

The Sharks host Mooretown Wednesday, February 28 and Monday, March 4 in a best-of-seven series. Full playoff schedule is on Sharks Facebook page.

FUNDRAISER for Cuba

from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 3 Fox St., Leamington. Freewill offering. Includes coleslaw, garlic bread, dessert. Takeout available.

FRIDAY, MARCH 1

WILD GAME DINNER, hosted by Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers, at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens, 1550 Rd. 3E, Ruthven. Doors open 5:00 p.m. Buffet-style, cash bar, raffles, silent auction. Menu includes Elk Stew, Water Buffalo Curry, Wild Boar Spaghetti & Meatballs, Rabbit Cacciatore, Crocodile Bites, Broasted Chicken and much much more. For tickets and to view full menu, go to catchcrooks.com under “Events” and click on “Wild Game Dinner”.

TUESDAY, MARCH 12

ESSEX COUNTY, ONTARIO ANCESTORS ZOOM WEBINAR at 7:00 p.m. Topic: 1838 Battle of Pelee Island. Speaker: Jean Rae Baxter highlights area’s historical figures involved and struggles they endured. Free & open to everyone. Visit https://essex.ogs.on.ca for Zoom link to register.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13

ESSEX COUNTY FIELD NATURALISTS CLUB WILL MEET at 7:30 pm at Point Pelee National Park. Topic: Soar Into the Canopy: the Southern Flying Squirrel Monitoring Program at the park. A hands-on presentation of the captivating world of Southern Flying Squirrels and the ways Point Pelee National Park has monitored their population since their re-introduction to the park in 1993 and 1994. All are welcome. Free to public.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

FIRST YARD AND BAKE SALE for Erie Wildlife Rescue! ONE DAY ONLY from 10 am to 3 pm. All indoors @ 11168 Tecumseh Rd E, Windsor, ON. Great selection of dishes, glassware, artwork, books, games, toys, knickknacks, jewelry and Easter décor and bake sale. Your support of this event will contribute to the purchase of food, caging, medical supplies and services for local wildlife in need of care.

ONGOING

ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT SOMEONE’S DRINKING? Al-Anon Family Groups meeting information: 519-790-7739 or www. alanonwindsoressex.com

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.

SOUTH ESSEX COMMUNITY COUNCIL - ADULT

DAY PROGRAM - Join us at Faith Mennonite for a day service providing social, recreational and personal support to clients and respite. For more information or to register, call SECC at 519-326-8629 or visit our website at secc. on.ca.

FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE at Leamington United Mennonite Church, 78 Oak St. East, for those who enjoy morning coffee/tea and conversation, the first Wednesday of each month. Upcoming dates: March 6 and April 3 at 10:00 a.m. in church auditorium All welcome, no RSVP required.

URSA MAJOR’S LITTLE BEAR CAFE COMMUNITY BREAKFAST every Monday (except holidays), 1860 Division Rd. North, Kingsville. Ursa Major Day Support Program’s community breakfast awaits with free coffee, tea, and simple eats — available while supplies last. Open to the whole community. We welcome everyone to join in the good food and fellowship. For more details, visit www.UMLSC.org or email contact@umlsc.org.

ERIE SHORES TOASTMASTERS MEETING in person at 6:30 pm every other Wednesday at the Leamington Library, 1 John St., Leamington. Develop your Communication and Leadership Skills in a positive, friendly environment. For more info Email: ErieShoresTM@yahoo.com Facebook: Erie Shores Toastmasters or go to ErieShores.toastmastersclubs.org.

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.

WHEATLEY BAPTIST CHURCH - 47 Talbot St. E. Everyone is welcome to come worship with us. Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Bible study Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. Adult fellowship Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m. For more info call 519-825-7433.

VOLUNTEER TUTORS NEEDED for the On Track to Success Program. United Way is looking for individuals to help tutor high school students in Leamington. Volunteer shifts available Monday to Thursday from 2:30-4:30 p.m. If interested contact Maia Williamson at mwilliamson@weareunited.com

THE KINGSVILLE FRIENDLY CLUB meets every Tuesday to play Cribbage, Euchre & Bridge at 12:45 in the Unico Community Centre at 37 Beech St. in Kingsville, and every Friday to play Bridge, Euchre & Pepper at 12:45. Come early if you want to play a particular game and have your choice of a seat.

IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, THAT’S YOUR BUSINESS If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous: 519-999-1234.

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 519-326-0612. Business calls 519-3263821. www.pregnancycentre.net.

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.

In keeping with tradition, the Wheatley Omstead Sharks honoured their four overage graduating players at their last regular season home game. In a classy center ice ceremony, players presented flowers to their families with the Sharks officials handing each player a commemorative player picture frame. Left to right: Isaac Legood is joined by his parents Stephanie and Greg and Sharks GM Thomas Grubb. Ethan Hamelin is joined by his sister Emily and Sharks head trainer Adam Ripley. Shannon Olson is joined by his parents Shannon and Kifi and Sharks assistant coach Paul Gossman. Braedon Caetano is joined by parents Jamie and Christina with presentation by head coach Josh Carnevale. Sharks jump right to the playoffs against Mooretown with two home games Wednesday, February 28 and Monday, March 4. Puck drop at 7:30 pm. Greg Coulter photo