Southpoint Sun - May 8, 2024

Blessing of the Bikes kicks off local riding season

By Deanna Bertrand

Skies cleared Sunday morning, May 5, to make way for warm sunny weather and the perfect day to “start those engines” for hundreds of local motorcycles, as they hit the pavement for what was a first ride of the season for many into Kingsville.

work since its inception over the past 9-10 years,” said Oswald.

“I can tell you – Hogs for Hospice – you guys are as good as it gets,” added Mayor Dennis Rogers. “The Town of Kingsville is here to help support in whatever way we can for such an incredible cause.”

MPP Dave Epp was also on hand to thank the community for its support and the caring shown by coming together as a community to support Hogs for Hospice.

The 8th annual Blessing of the Bikes, by Hogs for Hospice — in partnership with the First Lutheran Church Kingsville, the Town of Kingsville and many volunteers and sponsors — made for a full family community event with a free barbecue, live music, fellowship and the annual prayer and blessing over the riders and bikes for a safe riding season.

“This is our official kick-off to the riding season,” said Joe Oswald, member of the board for H4H, to the crowd gathered in front of the church. “So today is celebration. A celebration without segregation, but it is also a celebration of education and about rider safety. We have already had more than one fatality this very, very young riding season.”

He said, this is a chance to remind people of the need to focus on road safety for all – be it riding motorcycles or in vehicles that share area roadways.

“Education saves lives,” he said. He also thanked the community for the tremendous support over the years.

“We are beyond humbled that the riding community has embraced the Hogs for Hospice charity

Visiting Pastor Terry Tieman of Grace Celebration Church in Memphis, Tennessee, performed the blessing following a prayer scripture reading, and one minute of silence to remember those lives lost in road accidents.

Hogs for Hospice is a three-day motorcycle rally to raise awareness and funds for Erie Shores Hospice. This year’s rally will be August 2-5 at Seacliff Park in Leamington.

Liam Bourgoin, 10, of Belle River, enjoys lunch at the 8th annual Blessing of the Bikes on Sunday, May 5. SUN photos by Deanna Bertrand

Bikes of all shapes and sizes — vintage and new — lined the parking lot of the First Lutheran Church in Kingsville and spilled over to the neighbouring street.

Essex County Model Train Club holding open house on May 18

By Paul Forman

Fully engaged in a labour of love, members of the Essex County Model Train Club are busy preparing for what they hope will be a large turnout of model train enthusiasts at an open house they are holding at their home at the back of the Southpoint

Church on Bevel Line Road in Leamington. The club, which meets every Wednesday evening, was founded in July of 2013 and has members ranging in age from their late teens right up to those in their late 70s. Jim Walton, President of the Essex County Mod-

el Train Club, said, “The club is looking to grow and get back to as many members as they had in their previous Kingsville location.”

Having located in four classrooms that were originally used by the South Shore Christian School, the club’s members are

assembling tracks, setting up scaled buildings and creating landscape scenery to serve as settings that their model trains can move on and amongst.

The club has made a real effort to incorporate the latest in tech as they have locomotives that house digital decoders

and many members make use of their cell phones to send commands to their models.

Those who attend the May 18 open house from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Southpoint Church can expect to see models that move along the spectrum from the early days of

steam, all the way up to modern high-efficiency diesels.

For further information about the open house, you can contact club member Bill Jackson by email at jacksonwd@msn.com or check out Essex County Model Train Club on Facebook.

Concierge Level.

Tasha Slater

One of the club’s youngest members, Connor Summerlin, is pictured on the left alongside the club’s president, Jim Walton. SUN photos by Paul Forman

Leamington’s Bill Jackson proudly displaying some of the structures that he put together at the model train club on Bevel Line.

LOCAL NURSE RECEIVES HEART AND SOUL AWARD

Windsor Chapel-sponsored Heart and Soul Award was bestowed upon local R.P.N. Karley Bondy last week at Hospice, Erie Shores Campus. Scott Lockwood of Windsor Chapel/Arbor Memorial explained that the award is given quarterly to recognize members of the Hospice workforce who continuously go above and beyond the call of duty, and that Karley exemplified all of the qualities that make her a Heart and Soul recipient. Karley was nominated by her co-workers and was thrilled to receive such an award. Here she is after the ceremony with her father Nick Klym and her mother Katy Klym. Photo submitted

E.L.K. Energy warns of phone scam

E.L.K. Energy Inc. has issued a warning to the community about scam calls that are impacting customers.

These calls are threatening residents and small business owners with disconnection if payments aren’t made immediately over the phone by credit card or e-transfer.

Investigators are advising residents that the company does not ask its customers to provide credit card payment via a phone call.

If you ever encounter any suspicious activity, questionable calls or websites claiming to be E.L.K., do not hesitate to contact E.L.K. directly at 519-776-5291.

“E.L.K. urges everyone to reach out to vulnerable individuals including the elderly, and those without access to social media who may miss our warnings,” said Jim Hogan, Contract Management Lead. “We want to protect the community against fraud and financial losses.”

Customers are urged to contact their bank immediately if they believe they’ve been subject to this scam.

If you have received a similar call, you’re asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www. catchcrooks.com.You may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.

Kingsville Music Fesitval kicks off with lineup announcement

The 10th annual Kingsville Music Festival will take place August 9-11 along Kingsville’s picturesque waterfront at Mettawas Park.

Officials for the Kingsville Music Society were on hand Friday, May 3 at The Grove Brewing Company to launch this year’s festival and announce the musical acts expected to perform.

Michele Law, the Music Society’s Executive Director, said that the festival, now in its 10th year, began as an idea to bring music to area youth and the festival still has that focus in mind.

performance opportunities for talented area youth.

“We saw a need for music and kids who were disadvantaged,” said Law. “The MAY Fund benefits from the money raised at the festival through scholarships. We have six scholarship applications for this year.”

The festival boasts three daytime stages, an evening main stage and continues to entice visitors from across North America to indulge in Kingsville’s celebrated dining, warm hospitality, and rich history of live music.

day and Saturday night and will have us all dancing under the stars.”

Adult weekend passes for the festival are on sale now and are $80 each. New this year is a Youth 17-25 pass, which is priced at $20. Kids 16 and under are admitted free.

John Law — the Society’s Musical Director — then announced the talent-laden lineup for the festival and the schedule of events.

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Originating in 2014 as the Kingsville Folk Music Festival, the event brings a multi-day, multi-stage, family-friendly music festival to southwestern Ontario.

Managed by the notfor-profit Kingsville Music Society, comprising a volunteer board of five members, the festival’s proceeds support the Society’s MAY Fund (Music and Arts for Youth), facilitating musical scholarships, mentoring and

This year’s lineup boasts a diverse array of artists, including fan favourites Elliott Brood and the high energy multihorn funk band My Son the Hurricane.

“The acts we have are all really fun and suitable for all ages,” said Michele. “Kids under 16 are always free admission and this year we also have special youth pricing for the 17-25 crowd. My Son the Hurricane will close the show Fri-

The full music lineup includes the aforementioned Elliott Brood and My Son The Hurricane, as well as Ammoye, Valerie Ekoume, Mike Stevens Trio, Nicholas Campbell Trio, Jesse Corrigan Band, Rebekah Hawker, Luke Wallace, Benj Rowland, Redfox, Honeypaw, David Newland, Sarah Hiltz, Fresh Breath, The Schotts, Jangles The Clown and the Laughtertainer. Schedules, accommodation options, volunteer and vendor applications can be found at kingsville musicsociety.com

Spring is one of our favourite times at Seacliff Manor Retirement Residence! The tulips are in bloom, the trees are starting to bud, and our residents look forward to celebrating every year with our annual Spring Fling Festival!

Join our community of active seniors and find a fresh new start. Choose one of our state-of-the-art suites that features oversized windows, high-ceilings, and designer touches. Plus you choose your level of care and support based on your individual needs.

You can be assured that our team is available 24/7, and each resident enjoys three chef-prepared, à la carte meals in our dining room every day!

Wonder what our residents get up to on a daily basis? Check out our FULL activities and events calendar updated monthly on our website: seacliffmanor.ca/schedule

Members of the board of the Kingsville Music Society met with members of Kingsville council for the launch on Friday, May 3. From left, Michele Law, John Law, Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers, Tim Seech, Councillor Sheri Lowrie and Irena Wilson. SUN photo

opinion ~ expression ~ and other musings

Calling all back-catchers (and front-catchers)

Those who know me already know I’m a sports purist, in the sense that anything out of the ordinary bugs me.

Take the now-golfing Toronto Maple Leafs and their anemic powerplay for instance.

They say the definition of insanity is to keep doing the same thing with the same result over and over again.

Case closed on the Leafs. The coaching staff will be gone by the end of the month and very likely one Brendan Shanahan too.

I know the game has changed but constantly dropping the puck backward toward your end when you’re trying to penetrate the other team’s zone just gets my goat.

It would be different if it were successful, but it’s awful.

Enough of that though, as it just gets my blood pressure elevated for no real reason.

We were talking in the office last week about different sports terms that people get wrong all the time and I’d like to list my pet peeves when it comes to sports terminology right here, right now.

That’s right, let’s get them out in the open for all to see, including the numerous outstanding ball players that I’ve had the pleasure of playing with, who still call the position behind the plate “back-catcher”.

My retort is always, “Well, if you are playing back-catcher, who is playing front-catcher, and is there a back-pitcher as well?”

They usually don’t know what to say to that, but please, for the love of Thur-

Built the same year I was born!

I was born on Monday, May 4, 1942. Fifty years later, I turned 50. Wanting to do something a little different, I contacted a fellow in Toronto, where we lived at the time, and offered him $50 cash if he would pick me up in his 1942 Ford with flathead V-8 under the hood and drive me around for the better part of one hour. He did and it was great fun!

The 1942 Ford you see here was on the front cov-

er of the 1942 Ford sales brochure, a short year for car production because all car production ended in February of that year because of World War Two.

THE OLD CAR DETECTIVE

Bill Sherk

Gord Eaton was the Ford dealer in Leamington from 1940 until 1954, when Jackson Motors in Wheatley took over his dealership on the northeast corner of Wellington and Talbot Street East.

Here’s an idea for your next birthday! Find someone who has a car built the same year you were born. Offer to pay the owner a dollar a year for every year you have been here, then email to me the story and photo of your fun ride!

519-398-9098 • sun@southpointsun.ca

man Munson, use the term “catcher”.

We Canadians get blamed for a lot of stuff by our American cousins to the south and that’s one of them. Someone looked up “back-catcher” and it came back as “Canadian version of catcher.”

NO. NO. NO.

It’s not the Canadian version of catcher. Just like “goolie” is not the American version of “goalie”.

Another baseball term that needs to go the way of the do-do bird is “tie goes to the runner.”

There is no such thing as tie goes to the runner. And, pray tell, why would a tie go to the runner anyway?

A runner on a force play is either safe or out. Sometimes the umpire gets it wrong, but you’ll never hear a genuine, certified umpire say, “he’s safe because tie goes to the runner.”

Back to hockey for a moment too, if you will.

As much as Canadians get blamed for saying back-catcher, Americans are often blamed with saying “offsides” when it comes to hockey.

I don’t know if it’s just an American thing, but quite often I hear people say “offsides” instead of “offside”.

It’s offside in hockey. I don’t know, perhaps its “offsides” in football or soccer, but not in hockey.

I’ve also noticed a couple of Canadian play-by-play announcers using a new phrase that should be sent to Siberia with the Leafs’ powerplay coaches.

In particular, Chris Cuthbert needs to stop saying “shoulder check” when re-

RIB’S RAMBLINGS

Mark Ribble

ferring to a player looking back for an oncoming opponent.

Call it whatever you want, but when you say the word “check” during a hockey play-by-play, it infers that someone made body contact with someone else.

I hear them say, “McDavid heads to the boards and shoulder checks,” and I see nobody near McDavid, so he couldn’t have possibly shoulder-checked anyone.

Shoulder check should refer to using your shoulder to ride an opponent off the puck — much like a body check, a hip check, a sweep check or a poke check. Please call it ‘giving the side-eye’ or something — anything but shoulder check.

If you listen carefully, it’s used a few times a game and I end up yelling at the TV. I already yell at the TV way too much watching Leafs games. I don’t need anything else to yell about.

As I climb down off my soapbox and tuck away my Toronto swag for yet another few months, I realize I have a path worn to the same closet — a path that’s been taken all too many times since 1967. It comes out in the fall and goes back in the spring.

And then, all I can hope is that I’ve persuaded some of you back-catchers out there to come out from the back and step up to the plate with your terminology. Baby steps. That’s it. Baby steps.

The Rebel Rouser is gone

It’s so sad to report that Duane Eddy, one of America’s genuine rock and roll guitarists from the late 1950s through the 1980s, died of cancer on April 30 at the age of 86. Often referred to as the “twangy guitar hero of early rock,” he was respected and revered by many veterans in the world of pop and rock music.

Back in the early days, Eddy’s reverberating electric sound that put the ‘twang’ on instrumental classics like “Peter Gunn” and “Rebel Rouser” in early rock, also influenced many musicians like George Harrison, Bruce Springsteen and Paul McCartney.

Throughout the years, Duane sold over 100 million records around the world and developed a unique sound where the guitar’s bass strings sounded better than the high notes.

In a 1986 interview, Eddy told The Associated Press that he “had a distinctive sound that people could recognize” and although he wasn’t “one of the best technical play-

ers” around, he just sold the best. “A lot of guys are more skillful than I am with a guitar” but a “lot of it is over my head” and “not what I want to hear out of the guitar.”

FLASHBACK RADIO with Chuck

Reynolds

Duane would say that twang defined his sound on his first album, “Have Twangy Guitar Will Travel”, while his 1993 box set “Twang Thang: The Duane Eddy Anthology” was broader. Eddy later told The Associated Press in 1993, “It’s a silly name for a non-silly thing. But it has haunted me for 35 years now, so it’s almost like sentimental value – if nothing else.”

What is really incredible about Eddy’s recording career is that from 1958 through 1986, he had 32 instrumental hits on Billboard’s Hot 100. Twelve of these songs made it into the top 30. And songs like “Rebel Rouser”, “Forty Miles of Bad Road” and “Because They’re Young” made it inside the Top 10. Also, on Billboard’s Ex-

tended Play’s Chart, all four of Duane’s releases made the Top Ten with two reaching #2 and “Because They’re Young” reaching #1 for nine consecutive weeks. Duane Eddy released 23 albums during his productive years and won a Grammy award in 1986 for best Rock Instrumental (“Peter Gun”) which he recorded with Art of Noise that went Top 10 around the world. He also recorded “Duane Eddy” in 1987 with several of the tracks produced by Paul McCartney, Jeff Lynne, Ry Cooder and Art of Noise. The album also included a cover of Paul McCartney’s instrumental “Rockestra Theme” and Duane played on George Harrison’s self-titled comeback album. And to top it all off, he became a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.

1942 Ford in sales brochure.

Wheatley Legion news

Wheatley Branch 324 Nominations and Elections will be held at the next general meeting on Wednesday, May 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Wheatley Friendship Club. You must be a member in good standing to vote and will be asked to show your paid-up membership card for your 2024 dues or a receipt. Members, please try to attend.

May 2 was another bittersweet day for Legion members as comrades Tommy Brown and Sly Meredith removed the placard from the outer wall of the Wheatley Legion building, which is slated for demolition in the near future. The placard is a piece of history that will

hopefully be displayed at the new building. The Executive is working hard to make that happen, although the red tape has seemed endless.

There were 23 players out for Friday Night Fun Darts on May 3.

Recording five wins were: Sherry Chambers, Ben Baltzer and Glenn Brooker; Julie Reid, Gord Crook and Barry Bartelt; Virginia Bartelt and Neil Handspiker. Four wins: Karin Kingswood, Dennis Kiss and Jim McClellan; Jo-Anne Smith, Brad Lutz and Jeff Gates. Three wins: Jean Teylouni, Dave Leili and Tim Butt. Two wins: Laura Smith, Karl Bartelt and Cookie Klooster. Zero wins: Amy Kendall, Serbia

Bates and Doug Stevenson. Lady doublers were Virginia, Karin and JoAnne.

Anyone interested in playing fun darts is welcome to come on out to Kingsville Legion on Friday nights at 7 pm., play at 7:15.

Winners of the May 5 Meat Draws were Mary Ann Guyitt, Penny Hyatt, Samantha Corless, Carl McCracken, Gloria Sheldon, Gerry Soulliere (2), Diane Clark, Charlie Hyatt, Julie Reid and Liz Clark. Muggsy Soulliere won the L.A. 50/50 draw.

The next Meat Draw is Saturday, May 11 at Lil Hil’s Coffee Shop. Tickets go on sale at 3 p.m. with draws starting at 3:30.

Leamington Bridge Club scores

The following are the top-scoring teams in recent Bridge games at the Leamington Half Century Centre. Bridge lessons are available. If interested, call 519-738-4939.

April 22: North/South1st Pauline Mikolash and Roger Cote, 2nd Bob Lee and Henry Hildebrandt, 3rd Agnes Fraser and Ross Macintosh. East/ West - 1st Remi Fourni-

er and Monique Sadler, 2nd Dale Smith and Dave Derbyshire, 3rd Shirley Morel and Al Morrison. April 26: 1st Al Morrison and Frank Duransky, 2nd Derek Parry and Case Mulder, 3rd Bob Lee and Henry Hildebrandt. April 29: North/South - 1st Henry Hildebrandt and Bob Lee, 2nd Case Mulder and Frank Duransky, 3rd Roger Cote and

Pauline Mikolash. East/ West - 1st Monique Sadler and Remi Fournier, 2nd Al Morrison and Sue Duransky, 3rd Dale Smith and Dave Derbyshire.

May 3: 1st Roger Cote and Pauline Mikolash, 2nd Remi Fournier and Rowe Deans, 3rd Bob Lee and Henry Hildebrandt.

Legion member Tommy Brown is shown removing the placard from the outside of the Wheatley Legion building last week. The building will be torn down in the coming weeks. Photo submitted

Annual Run and Roll attracts about 700 participants

The 4th annual Erie Shores Health Foundation’s Run and Roll was held on Sunday, May 5 with a fitting Cinco de Mayo theme as the parking lot near the Hospice Erie Shores Campus was turned into a piazza for the morning.

About 700 participants entered the event, all with a common goal: to raise money for the foundation and get some well-needed Sunday morning exercise.

Some participants joined

on their own or walked or ran with a friend, while others formed teams in honour of a loved one lost. There were 40 teams entered in this year’s event and those teams raised a combined $68,000 in pledges, as the event highlighted 68 honouree families.

The day started with close to one hundred 5k-timed runners taking to the course, which wound its way throughout the streets of Leaming-

ton and back.

About 41 half-marathon runners then got underway and followed a longer course around the town.

The 5k walkers and wheelers comprised the largest group who left the start line next, followed by the 11k slow roll cyclists and the 25k slow roll cyclists, all of whom cycled beyond the hospice property along the Greenway and back.

The kids dash is always fun to watch and about 25

children took to the 400m course as excited parents and grandparents cheered them on.

All participants received medals and swag bags at the finish.

Development Officer, Events, for Erie Shores Health Foundation, Gloria Cavenago, took time to thank the participants, sponsors and volunteers, who all made it possible to pull off the event.

“Sponsors, we could not do this without you,”

she said. “And a special thanks to our volunteers as well. My amazing committee — if there is any such thing as dream team, this is 100 percent it.”

Erie Shores Health Foundation Executive Director Penny Bellhouse echoed her sentiments as she took the microphone for greetings from the foundation.

“The energy, the compassion, the generosity we’ve seen here this morning is just beyond

anything I’ve ever seen,” she said.

Bellhouse talked about the arrival of the portable MRI unit at the hospital in recent days and also said that 100 percent of the proceeds from Sunday’s event goes to the purchase of capital equipment at Erie Shores HealthCare.

While a total amount raised was not available prior to press time, it is expected to be released in the coming days.

The start of the kids’ dash — The Road Runner Race — is always a fun time for the participants and their parents, grandparents and friends. This year’s start had about 25 youngsters all with their game faces on, as they left the gate. SUN photo

Doris Lapico, Philanthropy Officer for ESHF, left, and Gloria Cavenago, Developmental Officer, Events for ESHF, cheer on competitors at the start of the half-marathon.

Donna Campbell, RMT, left, volunteered her time and services at the massage tent, while fellow RMT Deanna Bavetta — a member of the Run and Roll Committee and Community Engagement Coordinator for ESHF, wore a couple different hats for the day.

The 2024 Run and Roll Half-Marathon top finishers were, from left, Juliette Barrette (third female), Kayla Hooton (second female), Jaye Kendrick (top female), Johan Heide (second male) and Luis Melendez (top male). Third-place male Dylan Morrison was absent for the photo. SUN photos

The 2024 Run and Roll 5k top finishers were, from left, Kristen Tellier (top female), Aava Setterington (second female), Christopher Grieg (top male), Steven Pavao (second male), Connor Laino (third male). Third-place female Laura Monaghan was absent for the photo.

This year’s special memorial wall featured 68 honourees.

The 5k walk and wheel brought out many folks with their pets, including this lady and her two dogs that were decked out in Cinco de Mayo fashions.

In true Cinco de Mayo tradition, Grupo Diamante wowed the crowd with authentic Mexican music, featuring a very young and talented conga player.

Participants in the 25k slow roll make their way along the Greenway.

The 11k slow roll cyclists meander through the hospice pathways to the Greenway to start their event.

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 (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 in honour of Helen will be held Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 1:45 p.m. at the Faith Reformed Church, 1115 Seacliff Dr., Kingsville, Ontario.

If you choose, donations may be made to the Kingsville Food Bank (18 Division St. N., Kingsville ON, N9Y 1C8) or to the Salvation Army (88 Setterington St., Leamington ON, N8H 1T6).

Mary Jane Barnet

January 6, 1932 – April 29, 2024

Mary Jane Barnet (nee Girardin) passed away peacefully at Erie Shores HealthCare on Monday, April 29, 2024, at the age of 92.

Beloved wife of Wilfred with whom she shared 68 years of marriage. Dear mother of Ben (Eva) Barnet and Roberta (Joss Richer) Barnet. Grandmother of Daniel Richer (Marilyn Venney) and Miriam Richer (Mike Thorne). Daughter of the late Elliott and Leita (nee Campbell) Girardin. Sister-in-law of the late Betsy Gradwell (late Bill), late Bill Barnet (late Bev) and late Helen McDonald (late Arthur).

Mary Jane will be missed deeply by family and friends. She had a deep, lifelong affection for Point Pelee. Mary Jane loved playing and watching sports. She met Wilfred playing badminton. Mary Jane volunteered as a Cub Leader for many years. She was the treasurer for many organizations, including Camp Henry. Mary Jane enjoyed animals and spent many happy hours with the pony Mel. Wilf and Mary Jane enjoyed square dancing where they met many wonderful friends. They also enjoyed camping and going on cruises.

Special thanks to the staff at the Leamington Mennonite Retirement Residence and to the caring second floor staff of Leamington Mennonite Long Term Care.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Reid Funeral Home (14 Russell Street, Leamington 519-326-2631).

In lieu of flowers, donations directed to Leamington Mennonite Home are greatly appreciated.

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

Leamington teen gets help with mobility

A Leamington teenager has found new mobility freedom, thanks to a connection to the Shine Foundation — a national organization that helps youth aged 11-21 fulfill wishes.

Fourteen-year-old Peter Froese lives with cerebral palsy which affects his fine motor, arm and leg mobility. He depends on either a power or manual wheelchair daily but is not able to move around easily in all situations or terrain. He is often frustrated when his chair gets stuck or when he has to sit on the sidelines while his siblings run and play without him. Peter simply wants to spend more time outside, doing things he loves without his chair becoming a barrier.

dad outside and in their workshop making picture frames together all year round.

Peter’s dad Ben said that now Peter has something exciting to look forward to when he gets home from school. It gives him something he can get out and do on his own that makes him happy.

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Working with the Shine Foundation to develop his customized experience, Peter received a lime green NOT A Wheelchair rig that allows him more freedom and independence to do the things he loves.

He is most excited to spend more time with his

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is reminding residents that munic-

Both Peter and Ben shared that he’s interacting more with his siblings outside and is more engaged in games together. He even gets to bring his rig on his upcoming school field trip to Fanshawe Pioneer Village so he can access more of the space and join his peers who are bringing their bikes.

Peter attends Old Colony Christian Academy, Cottam Campus.

Peter said that he “looks forward to taking his rig to unchartered territory, parks in his community that he will now be able to discover without worrying about getting stuck and needing someone to

ipal staff will never canvas door-to-door selling a product, promoting a

Alfred John Fischer

July 12, 1930 – April 30, 2024

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Alfred John Fischer, 93 years, died peacefully at Windsor Regional Hospital (Ouellette Campus) on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

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Alfred was born on July 12, 1930 in Manitoba. Predeceased by his loving wife Lena (nee Dick) in 2006. Dear father of Ed and wife Kathy, Don and wife Brenda, and John. Loving grandfather of Ben (Melissa), Aaron (Tiffany), Blake (Tricia), Alexandria (Matt Janisse) and the late Brent Fischer 1979. Treasured great-grandpa of Alex, Jordyn, Emmerson, Ellyse, Everly and Jase Fischer. Brother of late Bill (late Elsie), late infant brother Alfred, late Mary Vlodarchyk (late Alex) and late Harry Fischer (Ann). Alfred had many nieces, nephews and lifelong friends.

Alfred loved his family farm, fishing and their Florida condo.

Visitation was held at Reid Funeral Home (14 Russell Street, Leamington, N8H 1T8) 519-326-2631, on Thursday, May 2, 2024 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.

Funeral Service to celebrate Alfred’s life took place at North Leamington United Mennonite Church (625 Mersea Road 6, Leamington, N8H 3V8) on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 11 a.m. Burial followed at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

In memory of Alfred, memorial donations may be made to NLUMC and or Leamington Mennonite Home. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

help him get unstuck.”

Since its inception in 1987, Shine has fulfilled more than 8,800 experiences for young people across Canada. They work together with youth aged 11-21 to create customized Shine Experiences that range from meeting

a hero, to adapted sports equipment. These experiences help them imagine new possibilities and inspire them to reach their future goals, developing a sense of purpose that can last a lifetime. For more information, visit www. shinefoundation.ca.

product or soliciting donations.

Be cautious of unsolicited persons at your door looking for charitable donations or attempting to sell a product or service. Do not let them rush or pressure you into buying a product, signing up for a service, or making a donation.

If you are unsure that they are credible, shut the door and call Consumer Protection Ontario at 1-800-889-9768, or (if you live in Chatham-Kent) call the non-emergency number 519-352-1234.

You can search the Canadian Government’s list of charities to ensure you donate to a legitimate charity. If the charity is

well known, but you are suspicious of the person seeking the donation, you can find the charity’s contact information in the phone book.

Proof of obituary to run May 8, 2024 Southpoint Sun $200 plus $26 HST = $226

Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca Thanks.

In Ontario, many products and services can only be offered or sold at your home if you initiate the transaction. To learn more about your rights, read the Government of Ontario’s rules for doorto-door sales to learn. If someone comes to your door asking for a donation and you are unsure if they are legitimate, do not be pressured into donating for some “urgent” cause. Take your time and research; contact a trusted family member or friend or call the agency.

Peter in his NOT A Wheelchair rig.

Photo submitted

Leamington to celebrate 150th Anniversary with a Dream Cruise and two car shows

The Leamington 150 Anniversary Committee, in collaboration with the Leamington Uptown Business Improvement Area (BIA) and supported by the Municipality of Leamington, has announced a Dream Cruise and Car Show event on Saturday, June 29.

This festive occasion highlights the ongoing celebrations marking Leamington’s 150th anniversary.

The festivities will kick off with a unique Dream Cruise, a nostalgic journey from noon to 3 p.m.

This historic cruise route, from the Leamington Fairgrounds to the Leamington Dock,

will bring back the cherished cruising tradition of Leamington’s past. As part of this cruise, a special car show will unfold from 1-3 p.m. at the Leamington Dock, showcasing a selection of classic cars.

Following the cruise, the festivities will shift to Uptown Leamington for a car show from 4-10 p.m. Classic cars and hot rods will line the streets of Talbot Street West, Queen Avenue and John Street, transforming Leamington’s uptown into an exhibition of automotive history and style.

Alongside the impressive display of cars, attendees can enjoy live music at the Italian Cen-

tennial Park, located on John Street, near the library.

This free community event is for all ages.

“Leamington’s 150th anniversary is a historic occasion, and what better way to celebrate than with a Dream Cruise and Car Shows,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “This event is a wonderful opportunity for both residents and visitors to experience the charm of our town. We invite everyone to join us as we drive down memory lane and celebrate our history and community spirit. Let’s make this celebration a memorable one for the entire family.”

Participation in the event is also free for classic car owners.

The Leamington Area Classic Cruisers, spearheaded by local car show organizer Gino DelCiancio, will be lending their expertise to the shows and the cruise.

The entry forms for the car shows and Dream Cruise are available at Leamington.ca/Carshow.

Renaissance Festival this weekend at fairgrounds

This weekend will mark the second year in a row that the Leamington District Agricultural

Society will host the Renaissance Festival at the

Leamington Fairgrounds May 11-12.

After last year’s debut in front of Leamington-area crowds, the second annual event is hoping to build on last year’s attendance and attract festival lovers from all over southwestern Ontario.

Events like jousting, sword fighting, juggling and magic will thrill local audiences as they make their way to the fairgrounds for a throwback to times-gone-by.

Medieval knights, knaves and damsels will be on hand to compete in many events and take photos with kids of all

ages.

There will be plenty of vendors selling their wares and food vendors will keep attendees nourished.

The Renaissance Fes-

tival runs Saturday and Sunday, May 11 and 12, from 10-6 daily. Admission is $25 per person. Call the fairgrounds office at 519-326-8082 for more information.

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Two competitors at last year’s Renaissance Festival in Leamington. SUN archives

Uni-Fab office addition unveiled at open house

A community open house was held on Saturday, April 27 to commemorate the official opening of Uni-Fab’s new stateof-the-art office space addition to their plant on Highway 77 in Leamington.

Uni-Fab President Mary Fehr said 700-800 people walked through the building that day, which offered visitors a

first-hand look at their newly constructed office space and an opportunity to learn about the company’s 30-plus-year history and its company values.

“It was an amazing event where we welcomed the local community to walk through our shop where they were greeted by our staff to share about their specific machines and work,” said

Mary Fehr. “The event was a great success and we were happy to celebrate with a ribbon cutting in front of the office. It was amazing to see such great support from the local community.”

Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald was onhand for the ribbon cutting, and was joined at the celebration by numerous other local dignitaries.

La Dulce Vida Café brings the sweet life to Kingsville

By Paul Forman

Joining Kingsville’s vibrant culinary scene with their opening on April 20th, La Dulce Vida Café, located at 15 Division Street South, offers patrons an elevated menu of unique food and drink in a bistro-like setting.

Owner Fernanda Hernandez has had an entrepreneurial flair from a young age, running two part-time businesses while working on her degree. Originally from Mexico and raised in Leamington, Hernandez is excited to jump head-

first into her first full-time business venture and is thrilled to share her passion for food, savouring the opportunity to tweak her recipes with a focus on healthy living.

Serving breakfast, brunch and lunch, Hernandez and her crew always use the freshest ingredients in their sandwiches, smoothies, juices, coffees and desserts. Vegan, vegetarian, dairy and gluten-free options are always on the menu in addition to their traditional fare.

La Dulce Vida Café’s

signature drink is an espresso horchata, a Mexican rice-based drink flavoured with cinnamon, which will be served, along with the rest of their offerings, with impeccable style.

La Dulce Vida Café is open Monday to Friday, excluding Tuesdays, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Look to Facebook or Instagram for the latest additions to their evolving menu and any other new announcements.

The owner of La Dulce Vida Café, Fernanda Hernandez, along with some of her plated food options that customers can expect to enjoy. SUN photo by Paul Forman

The addition on the front of the existing Uni-Fab plant on Highway 77. SUN photo

People file into the open house on Saturday, April 27. Photo by Mike Masullo

The ribbon cutting involved Mayor Hilda MacDonald (middle) and the Fehr family, all doing their part to get the job done. Photo by Mike Masullo

Looking back ...

From the Leamington Post and News May 8, 1924

Mayor Selkirk reported at Tuesday night’s session of Town Council that the committee appointed to go to Toronto to wind up the business in connection with talking over the local hydro plant had been given about everything asked for by the Hydro Commission, except an amendment to the contract for taking power, which, it was expected, would be arranged satisfactorily.

Mr. Baker, representing the newly established White Star Bus Lines between Leamington and Windsor, applied for a bus stand in town. He said the timetable for his lines had been issued before a rival had come in. He did not wish to antagonize anyone interested but wished to co-operate with the people of Leamington. The matter was held over by council, as was the application of Barry and Clinansmith for a jitney stand.

A capacity house greeted the St. John’s Dramatic Club’s presentation of their first play, Daddy Long Legs, at the Patricia Theatre Monday evening. They deemed the performance an unqualified success. The first act opens with a scene at the John Grier Orphan Home, where one of the girls, Judy Abbott, by her beauty, her promise of genius and nobility and disposition, attracts the attention of Jervis Pendleton, a wealthy bachelor. Miss Juniata Reive gave a fine portrayal of Judy in the play. Mr. Squire portrays Pendelton admirably.

According to Alex M. Snyder, a Border Cities realtor, a 75-room summer hotel is projected for Leamington by the Royal Beach Amusement Company, to be located on the lakefront east of the dock. Architectural plans are now being drawn up for the hotel, which is an addition to the already completed layout of a complete amusement park, with Coney Island features and attractions. Last year, Mr. Snyder purchased 1,000 feet of lake frontage from Selby Smith, which amounts to about 10 acres. It’s located on what used to be known as the Uncle Ned Robson Sand Hill. Mr. Snyder then resold the property to the Royal Beach company. A group of investors from Sandusky, Ohio, are involved in the planning for the amusement park. It is expected that the hotel will be ready for occupancy next year and the amusement park will follow.

At the baseball game in Wigle Park on Friday last with Windsor, our Leamington team won by a score of 7-2. There was good playing throughout with the odds in the favour of the visitors. Leamington’s lineup has some great names: Edwards, Clifford, Goyeau, Ford, Setterington, Hewer, McKenzie, Rice, Irwin and Penrose. The team plays Windsor Technical on Friday at 4:30 at the Fairgrounds.

From the Kingsville Reporter May 8, 1924

Richard Heddle, William Echlin and Wilburt Holden, former clerks at the Chatham branch of Standard Bank,

who pleaded guilty recently to charges of stealing bank money, were today released on suspended sentence by Magistrate Arnold, with restitution having been made. The Magistrate said he thought two months incarceration in the county jail had taught the young men a lesson.

Mr. Jack Miner is in New York for a couple of weeks, lecturing almost every night on his pet theme ‘the birds.’ Mr. Miner just had another contribution to his sanctuary in the form of five geese, known as ‘Wavies’. They are beautiful birds, snowy white except for the tips of their wings. They are the same size as the ordinary wild goose and making themselves at home in their new surroundings.

Mrs. Tooth of Elm Street West has purchased the residence on the corner of Main St. West and Prince Albert Street that was erected by Jesse Sherman. Mr. MacDonald, who had tentatively purchased the home, is leaving town shortly. Mr. Sherman takes Mrs. Tooth’s property on Elm Street in the deal and will divide it into two and put it on the market.

Seventy-one candidates wrote here last Saturday on Part 1 of the High School Entrance Examination. Of these, 60 intend to attend Kingsville High School and a few are undecided as to what they will do. For the whole county, exclusive of Windsor and Walkerville, there were over 750 candidates. Part 2 of the entrance examinations will be held July 2-4.

From The Wheatley Journal

May 1919: L. Handy, who has been conducting a general store here for a number of years, has sold out to Geo. McVittie of Blenheim. Mr. McVittie was for a number of years connected with Thompson’s store at Blenheim, but enlisted when the war broke out and went overseas. He was wounded on two occasions but finally pulled through and returned home. He expects to take possession May 19.

1939 Ad for The Red and White Store:

2 lbs Pure Lard, 2 lbs Chocolate Biscuits, 3 tins White Corn, 2 Corned Beef or 6 lbs Readicut Macaroni – all 25¢. With each 25-lb bag of Robin Hood Flour, guess the weight in the bag on display in our window. 1st Prize - $8 Wool Blanket, 2nd Prize - Set of Mixing Bowls, 3rd PrizeSet Aluminum Dishes. We Deliver. Jas. Lougheed. Phone 63.

May 10, 1956: This Friday evening and Saturday afternoon and evening, Naylor Lumber Company Limited will open their new office and showroom for inspection by the public. This is also a celebration of 30 years of business in Wheatley. Part of the new building is a well-lighted and spacious office, and the remainder is a showroom with a special display of modern kitchen cupboard units, as well as a large variety of displays for the latest in building materials.

Clippings from the Wheatley Journal, May 1989 A Look at Leamington’s Past courtesy of C. Scott Holland 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.

Clippings from the Wheatley Journal

Photo courtesy of the Kingsville Archives

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

May 1994 - During Education Week the Wheatley Kinettes presented Romney Central School with a cheque for a computer to run the Legos Logo program. Pictured are computer teacher Mrs. Riehl, Matthew Shanks, Principal Henry Flaming, Gary Taves and Kinette Cathy Bell.

Photo of a boys’ gym class at Kingsville District High School in the 1960s. Craig Fisher may be on the right. If you can identify any of the other students, please contact the Archives at 226-348-6377 (leave message) or kingsvillearchives@gmail.com.

One of the most recognizable structures in Leamington for over half a century was this house situated on the east side of Erie Street South, which in 1929 was the Bell Canada offices where citizens paid their telephone bills. The building was used until the 1990s, situated where Monarch Dental is today.

Shooting suspect sought

Investigators are seeking public help in identifying an individual involved in a shooting incident in Leamington.

On April 28 at approximately 5:40 a.m., police received a report of an altercation between five male individuals in a parking lot on Talbot Street East, near Princess Street.

During the altercation, two people exchanged gunfire. One of the two assailants fled in a black Audi sedan, while the other individuals left the scene on foot. Injuries are

unknown. Investigators confirm the suspects are known to each other.

Police are seeking public assistance to identify the assailant in the black sedan.

If you have any information that can help investigators, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.catchcrooks.com. You may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.

Fatal motorcycle crash near Leamington

One person died of injuries sustained following a collision near Leamington on Wednesday, May 1.

On May 1 at approximately 3 p.m., police responded to a report of a motorcyclist who left the road and struck a guardrail on Mersea Road 2 near Hillman Marsh Conservation Area. The coroner pro-

nounced the motorcyclist, a 28-year-old individual from Leamington, deceased at the scene.

Mersea Road 2 was closed until approximately 8:15 p.m.

New OPP public access calling system

Members of the public who visit West Region detachments after hours, which includes Essex County, will have access to a new public access calling system outside OPP facilities.

The new “E-phone” is a touchscreen-based

system that replaces the old handset phone used for decades outside OPP buildings. The system has been modernized, but the function remains the same. All E-phone calls will connect directly to the OPP Provincial Communications Centres (PCC)

for service as the previous system did.

When the user touches the call-screen icon, PCC call-takers and dispatchers will see the originating location of the call. The location display saves the call-taker time gathering the caller’s information

The West Region OPP Traffic Incident Management and Enforcement (TIME) team attended the scene and is assisting Essex County OPP with the investigation.

and provides the public with the confidence that their location is readily identified and that police will respond.

Twenty of 34 West Region locations have transitioned to the new E-phone system, with the remainder completed by the fall.

Kristin Swayze - DD

Community Living Mayors’ Luncheon speaker a hit with all attendees

By Mark Ribble

About 150 people attended the annual Community Living Essex County Mayors’ Luncheon on Friday, May 3 at the St. Mary’s Hall in Maidstone.

Mayors, deputy mayors and councillors were on hand, along with Community Living board members, staff and clients, to talk about Community Living Essex County and all of the programs and services they offer.

Chair and President of the CLEC Board of Directors, Sue Desjarlais, spoke about the services offered and what the future holds for the organization.

“We’re in our 63rd year as an organization,” she said. “I’m very proud of Community Living Essex County. We support over 700 people in the county. Community Living is do-

ing great things.”

Tecumseh Deputy Mayor Joe Bachetti, bringing greetings on behalf of the County of Essex, was grateful to CLEC for their community involvement.

“Each of us owes Community Living Essex County a debt of gratitude for all they do in our municipalities,” he said. “You celebrate inclusion. Real authentic inclusion.”

The guest speaker was Michael Jacques, the current board president of Community Living Ontario — who also has a disability.

At a young age, Michael was diagnosed with autism and an intellectual disability.

Being unable to read or write, Michael took it upon himself to use technology — text to speech — to write his first book in 2016.

To date he’s sold over 21,000 copies of his first book, entitled ‘Can’t Read, Can’t Write, Here’s My Book.’

He followed it up with a second book, entitled ‘I Belong, Can I Play?’, which has sold over 4,000 to date.

The former Special Olympian is a valued employee at Sobey’s in his hometown of Fonthill and has been featured in many articles and on TV shows

throughout Canada and the U.S.

Michael’s presentation included his father, Marcel, who helped him with the slide presentation and explained certain aspects.

It was a comical backand-forth between the two, but the love and admiration they have for each other shone through more than anything.

They spoke on challenges that Michael faces, how technology has helped

him overcome some of those challenges and how the idea for the book got started.

His manager at the Sobeys store was so impressed he allowed Michael to sell his books at the store, which caught the attention of Sobey’s head office, who invited him to Toronto for a meet and greet. From there, Sobey’s stores across Ontario and the Maritimes were also selling his books.

He’s now done over 400 public speaking engagements and is a popular choice at the Ontario Police College, where he has shared his story with over 6,000 cadets over the past six years.

Tony DeSantis, Manager of Communications at CLEC, thanked Michael for his presentation before those in attendance stood in line to purchase a copy of their own.

CLEC President of Board of Directors (and LaSalle councillor) Sue Desjarlais, Essex councillor Kim Verbeek, LaSalle councillor Molly Allaire, CLEC Executive Director Karen Bolger.

Local dignitaries gathered with keynote speaker Michael Jacques after the luncheon. Standing from left are LaSalle councillor Terry Burns, Tecumseh Deputy Mayor Joe Bachetti, guest speaker Michael Jacques, LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche, LaSalle councillor Anita Riccio-Spagnuolo, Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt, Essex MPP Anthony Leardi, Leamington councillor Anthony Abraham. Sitting from left are CLEC Manager of Communications Tony DeSantis,

SUN photos

Mazzella* Diane Jraiche*

Community Calendar

SATURDAY, MAY 11

ANNUAL PLANT SALE - LaSalle Horticultural Society, from 9:00 am2:00 pm, St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, 205 Laurier Dr. at Divine St. Annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, veggies, herbs, hanging baskets and much more.

TUESDAY, MAY 14

ESSEX COUNTY - ONTARIO ANCESTORS

MAY WEBINAR: at 7:00 p.m. Speaker: Verity Johnson. Topic: an overview of the valuable family history website FamilySearch.org. Free and open to everyone. Go to https://essex.ogs.on.ca for Zoom link to register.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

ESSEX COUNTY MODEL TRAIN CLUB OPEN HOUSE - from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm in the back room at South Point Community Church, 475 Bevel Line, Leamington. Entrance at front, take hallway to the rear. Everyone welcome. Admission by donation or a canned good for the Food Bank.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

ONTARIO PURPLE MARTIN ASSOCIATION MEETING - at 9:00 am at Colchester Community Centre, 100 Jackson St., Colchester. The public is welcome to attend. More info: Paul 519-738-3476.

SUNDAY, MAY 19

VICTORIA DAY ADULT DANCE - 2:005:00 pm at Kingsville Legion Br. 188, 145 Division Rd. South. 50/50 Draw. Dance and sing the afternoon away and enjoy music from different eras with Billy K.

THURSDAY, MAY 23

FREE FALLS PREVENTION SCREENING

- 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. at the Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Road. Age 60 years plus welcome. Providing free falls risk assessment and a plan to decrease the risk of falling. Eight people are required to sign up in order to hold the program. Call 519-997-2827 ext. 341. and get a plan to decrease your risk of falling. Facilitated by WECHC.

SUNDAY, MAY 26

ALZHEIMER'S SOCIETY OF WINDSOR & ESSEX COUNTY - IG WEALTH

MANAGEMENT WALK FOR ALZHEIMER’S - at Ford Test Track, 3001 Seminole Dr., Windsor. Registration 8:30 am, Yoga 9:30, Walk Kickoff & Scavenger Hunt 10:30. Event is to raise awareness & funds for Alzheimer's research & support services. Register online at www.alzheimerwindsor.com in advance or on the day of the event.

SUNDAY, JUNE 9

STRAWBERRY SOCIAL - 12 noon - 2:00

pm at St. John’s Anglican Church, 60 Erie. St. N., Leamington, in support of outreach programs. Hotdog & chips, strawberry shortcake or strawberry sundae, beverages. $12 per person, $30 per family. More info: 519-326-3111 or st.johnleamington.org

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 aftercare program for substance misuse. Do you, a friend or family member struggle with substance misuse? Come learn about the solution process. Drop-in group session. No registration required.

SOUTH ESSEX COMMUNITY COUNCILADULT 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: 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.

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.

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.

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: 519999-1234.

TAI CHI - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd. N. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:00 - 11:00 am. Gentle physical exercises and stretches. Each posture flows into the next. Tuesday geared to beginners. No registration required.

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 pm. Food is available from St. Vincent De Paul at St. Michael’s Parish 226-3407233, Salvation Army Food Bank 9:15 - 11:45 am. 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.

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 519326-0612. Business calls 519-326-3821. www.pregnancycentre.net.

ACCESS kids’ programs growing in popularity

By Mark Ribble

New after-school children’s programs are enjoying growing popularity in Kingsville as more kids come forward to participate in fun and healthy activities.

Access County Community Support Services (ACCESS) has been running these programs in Kingsville since January of this year after similar programs in Harrow have proven popular in recent years.

ACCESS program coordinator Elizabeth Shortt is an Early Childhood Educator specializing in nutrition and health and fitness and she says the programs have taken off nicely at the Kingsville location.

Inside the Kingsville Lions Hall, ACCESS holds their programs every Monday and Wednesday, starting immediately after school and continuing until about 5:30 pm.

The activities are varied but all with a common theme — to promote active kids who are doing healthy things.

They may be playing floor hockey one day, skipping the next, and baking cookies or muffins after that.

Shortt says it’s important that they provide activities that will keep the kids interested and active.

“This keeps them off their electronics and focuses on healthy activity,” she said. “The kids love it.”

Monday’s session is a mixed group of children from Grade 4-8 and Wednesday’s session is titled ‘Girl’s Time’, where girls from Grade 4-8 gather at the centre for plenty of healthy activity.

Those activities are not

just limited to inside the Lions Hall, but range from exercise and workout routines, to aquafitness and outdoor sports during nicer weather months.

They currently have 24 kids signed up in Kings-

ville and Shortt says that if you’d like to register a child for the programs to give her a call at 519-9037092.

The programs are free during the school year and ACCESS is a registered charity.

ACCESS Program coordinator Elizabeth Shortt puts the ‘Cheesy Girls’ through their stretches prior to activities on Wednesday, May 1. SUN photos

ACESS Program coordinator Elizabeth Shortt, right, takes a turn on the ropes as Emma Damm manages jumping jacks during a round of double-dutch. Reese Bergen is turning the other end of the rope, as Chelsea Augustine awaits her turn.

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 al routes are available

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E-mail or call in your classified ad by Friday at 12:00 p.m.

Ph: 519-398-9098 Email: sun@southpointsun.ca

Form 6

Sale of Land by Public Tender Municipal Act, 2001 Ontario Regulation 181/03, Municipal Tax Sale Rules

Sale of Land by Public Tender

The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington

Take Notice that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time on May 29, 2024, at the Leamington Municipal Office, 111 Erie Street North, Leamington Ontario.

The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day as soon as possible after 3:00 p.m. at the Leamington Municipal Office, 111 Erie Street North, Leamington.

Description of Land:

Roll No. 37 06 830 000 01650 0000; 830 MERSEA RD. 10, STAPLES; PIN 75087-0085 (LT); PT LT 8 CON 9 MERSEA PT 1-2 12R5616 S/T R1193187; LEAMINGTON; File No. 22-53

According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $181,000.00

Minimum tender amount: $31,832.17

Tenders must be submitted in the prescribed form and must be accompanied by a deposit of at least 20 per cent of the tender amount, which deposit shall be made by way of a certified cheque/bank draft/ money order payable to the municipality.

Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to or any other matters relating to the land to be sold. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers. The assessed value, according to the last returned assessment roll, may or may not be representative of the current market value of the property.

Pursuant to the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act, S.C. 2022, c. 10, s. 235 (the “Act”), effective January 1, 2023, it is prohibited for a non-Canadian to purchase, directly or indirectly, any residential property, as those terms are defined in the legislation. Contraventions of the Act are punishable by a fine, and offending purchasers may be ordered to sell the residential property.

The municipality assumes no responsibility whatsoever for ensuring bidders/tenderers comply with the Act, and makes no representations regarding same. Prospective bidders/tenderers are solely responsible for ensuring compliance with the Act and are advised to seek legal advice before participating in this sale.

Transfers of properties that contain at least one and not more than six single family residences and are transferred to non-residents of Canada or foreign entities, are subject to the Province’s Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST).

This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. The successful purchaser will be required to pay the amount tendered plus accumulated taxes and any taxes that may be applicable, such as a land transfer tax and HST.

The Municipality has no obligation to provide vacant possession to the successful purchaser.

A copy of the prescribed form of tender is available on the website of the Government of Ontario Central Forms Repository under the listing for the Ministry of Municipal Affairs.

For further information regarding this sale and a copy of the prescribed form of tender, visit: www.OntarioTaxSales.ca or if no internet access available, contact:

Laura Rauch CPA, CMA Treasurer

The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington 111 Erie Street North Leamington ON N8H 2Z9

519-326-5761

lrauch@leamington.ca www.leamington.ca

Notice of Completion of a Screening Report

Brighton Beach Generating Station Upgrades

Atura Power, a subsidiary of Ontario Power Generation, is planning to make efficiency upgrades at the Brighton Beach Generating Station (BBGS)

Project Description

BBGS is a combined-cycle natural gas-fueled electricity generating station with an average electrical output contract capacity of about 541 megawatts (MW). The station is located at 100 Broadway St., in Windsor, Ont.

The upgrades will involve replacing internal parts of the natural gas fired combustion turbines with more efficient parts which will increase the facility generating contract capacity by an average of 42.5 MW to achieve a total average contract capacity of approximately 584 MW All upgrades will take place within the facility and there will be no changes or expansion beyond the existing BBGS footprint

The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) quantified the near-term additional electricity supply need in Ontario, stating that an additional 4,000 MW of new capacity is required by May 2027. Procurements for projects capable of meeting the increased electricity demand in 2027 will need to be completed in the short term. Atura Power is prepared to help meet that need and support Ontarians through upgrades that will optimise and increase energy generation at BBGS

Environmental Screening Process

Since the project will increase the facility generating contract capacity (electrical output) by an average of 42.5 MW, the upgrades are subject to the Environmental Screening Process for Electricity Projects pursuant to Ontario Regulation (O.Reg.) 116/01, under the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. Note: Since starting the project in July 2023, the Government of Ontario revoked O.Reg. 116/01 so the upgrades are now subject to the Environmental Screening Process pursuant to O.Reg. 50/24.

Atura Power prepared a Screening Report according to the Environmental Screening Process for Electricity Projects (pursuant to O.Reg. 50/24). The Screening Report documents the results of the Environmental Screening Process undertaken to identify whether any potential environmental effects of the project would occur (‘Yes’ or ‘No’). The Environmental Screening Process determined that all Screening Criteria scored ‘No’ as a result of the BBGS upgrades

project, and without any mitigation, all regulatory requirements will be met. Atura Power intends to move forward with implementing the upgrades subject to other required approvals. Indigenous communities, agencies, municipal staff, elected officials, and members of the public are invited to review the Screening Report beginning on May 8, 2024, at aturapower.com/brightonupgrade The last day comments can be submitted is June 7, 2024.

Any outstanding concerns about the project should be emailed to Atura Power at brightonupgrade@aturapower.com. If the matter is unable to be resolved, the concerned individual may submit a written request to the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, copying the Director of the Environmental Assessment and Approvals Branch, at the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) and Atura Power, to elevate the project to either an Environmental Review or to a Comprehensive Environmental Assessment. Elevation requests must be made according to the provisions set out in the MECP’s Environmental Screening Process for Electricity Projects.

Note that elevation requests must be submitted to the Minister and a copy sent to the Director and Atura Power within the 30-day review period between May 8 and June 7, 2024.

MECP Contact Information

Minister Director

Mailing Address Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks 777 Bay St., 5th Floor Toronto, ON M7A 2J3

Environmental Assessment Branch Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks 135 St. Clair Ave. W., 1st Floor Toronto, ON M4V 1P5

Email Address minister@mecp@ontario.ca EABDirector@ontario.ca

Project Contact Information

More information, including other project-related documentation, is available at aturapower.com/brightonupgrade

If you require any assistance regarding accessibility concerns or wish to share questions or comments, please email us at brightonupgrade@aturapower.com

For more information: https://aturapower.com/

Comments and information regarding this project are being collected in accordance with the Freedom of Information andProtectionofPrivacyAct for the purpose of meeting environmental assessment requirements.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, it’s challenging for you and a romantic partner to get together this week and that may lead to stress. Over time you will be able to reconnect and get things back in sync.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, normally you are very open, but all of your communication channels seem to be blocked of late. Don’t be too hard on yourself as things will return to normal soon enough.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, if a family member has been in a bad mood or is feeling unwell, it is up to you to get to the root of the situation. Provide whatever assistance you can.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, you may feel like you don’t want to get involved if a friend or colleague is in trouble. But this person can really use your help at the moment and you should step up.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Don’t let your career get sidetracked by gossip and office politics, Leo. You should stand up for yourself if others are speaking poorly about you. Avoid getting involved in gossip.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, what seems to be bad news about your financial situation may not be as bad as it once appeared. Double-check the details before you become panicked.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, you may be inclined to protect loved ones from the truth this week, but they need to hear all of the details in this instance. Break any news to them gently.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you are a workaholic by nature, but when fatigue hits you this week, you’ll need to step back and give yourself time to rest. There’s a lot coming your way soon enough.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

A person who is no longer in your life may be on your mind a lot these days, Sagittarius. Cherish the fond memories you have of this person and don’t worry about being preoccupied.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, misinformation may be spreading around you and it can be tempting to add your own input to the discussions. Make sure your contributions can be backed up.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

You are finally putting some of your longstanding plans in motion, Aquarius. However, this week you may receive some information that might delay progress.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Someone may try to mislead you with some inaccurate information this week, Pisces. Conduct your own research and you’ll get all of the details you need for to draw your own conclusion.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MAY 5 - Adele, Singer (36)

MAY 6 - George Clooney, Actor (63)

MAY 7 - Jake Bongiovi, Actor (22)

MAY 8 - Melissa Gilbert, Actress (60)

MAY 9 - Billy Joel, Singer (75)

MAY 10 - Bono, Singer (64)

MAY 11 - Sabrina Carpenter, Actress (25)

CHRIS BABKIRK

390 Talbot St. N. Essex 519-776-6447 chrisbabkirk@kenknappford.com

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Golden Years mini golf report

May 2 saw 51 golfers score 85 holes-inone at Colasanti’s golf course.

Leading the way with 6 aces each were Theresa Decaluwe and Laurie Hylton, followed closely by Keith Hopper with 5, and Walter Balsam, Tom Hyatt, Julia Kos, Bill Ward and Andy Orsini with 4 each. Sinking 3 were Debbie Clinton, Mary Binder, Barb Haas, Grant Raymond and Gisele Lapointe, while 2 were scored by Gail Turk, Bill Mayville, Denise Munson, Lloyd Symons, Robin Cournoyea, Tom Bondy, Zena Raymond, Ed Middleton, Bill Gough, Kathy Klym and Betty McManus. Single aces were recorded by Donna Bileti, Kathy Bechard, Anne Marie Wszol, Nancy Springthorpe, Ron Fick, Bill Taylor, Joanne Law, Linda Chiasson, Al Munson, Bryon Walker and Armand Decaluwe.

Top scores over 18 holes were recorded by Theresa Decaluwe 34, Laurie Hylton 34 and 37, Ray Foster 35, Robin Cournoyea 36, Bill Ward 36 and 36, Tom Hy-

att 36 and 38, Debbie Clinton 37 and 38, Andy Orsini 38 and 38, Walter Balsam 38, Bill Mayville 38 and 39, Keith Hopper 38, Julia Kos 38, Denise Munson 39, Lloyd Symons 39, and Tom Bondy 39.

The 36-hole leaders were Laurie Hylton with a sizzling 71 and Bill Ward hot on his heels with 72. Theresa Decaluwe and Tom Hyatt scored 74, Debbie Clinton 75, Andy Orsini and Robin Cournoyea 76, Bill Mayville and Ray Foster 77, Julia Kos and Keith Hopper 78, and Denise Munson 79.

First place was Team 3 (Laurie Hylton, Keith Hopper, Mike Binder) with 234. Second place was Team 7 (Al Munson, Denise Munson, Bill Mayville) with 240, and third place was Team Kings (Barb Fick, Ray Foster, Walter Balsam) with 242.

Last golf of the season will be this Thursday, May 9 at 10:30 a.m. followed by the end of year banquet.

The

LMS IN FULL SWING

House league play for Leamington Minor Soccer is finally getting underway after a soggy week last week postponed or cancelled most games. This game on Monday, May 6 provided lots of offense, as Weil’s Foods battled Community Trophy in this U11 boys match. SUN photo

Kingsville Friendly Club

President Bob Bell welcomed 31 members out to play cards at the Unico Centre on Tuesday, April 30, welcoming Mike Spitse and Ben Harrigan.

won an Okuma fishing package

is

Photo submitted

Scores in Bridge: Mandy Hric 4710, Roy Trowell 3930, Mac Stanley 2580. Euchre: Ed Fraser 90, Bill Fielding 89, Dawn Tizzard 86. Most lone hands: Ed Fraser 6. Cribbage: Carolyn Brown 934, Sue Girardin 889, Bob Bell 856. Door prize winners were Mike Spitse, Clare Shaw and Willy Fittler.

Thanks to Dave Snider for the candy, and Jean Kuipers and Carolyn Brown from the Bridge group for the treats.

There were 49 members out to play cards Friday, May 3. Bridge: Kim Hamm 4660, Todman 3630, Corinne Ingall 3610. Euchre: Rene Everaert 85, Dave Snider 81, Nancy Taylor 79. Most lone hands: Ken Marinuik 4. Pepper: Kathy Hedge 261, Mary-Jo Laforet 250, Maggie Hansen 247.

Most peppers was a fourway tie between Winnie Moore, Maggie Hansen, Carolyn Brown and Kathy Hedge with 5 each. Door prize winners were Dawn Tizzard, Nancy Taylor and Mandy Hric.

The group celebrated the May birthdays of Della Dyck, John Gerhardt, Jean Kuipers, Marcie Leeming, Case Mulder and Liese Sabelli with carrot cake and icecream.

Southwest Outdoors Club’s Big Buck Sportsmen Show was held on Saturday, April 20 at the Tilbury Arena. Over 1,739 paid entrants and hundreds of kids 12 years and under enjoyed the 50+ outdoor themed vendors and displays, archery, nerf ball, educational taxidermy, Zoo2You live animals, trout pond and Canadian Military setup. The Foundation for Recognition of Ontario Wildlife scored numerous entries and trophies were handed out in seven categories. The winner of the CF Moto ATV was Joshua Waite. Conor Mills won an Excalibur crossbow (valued at $900), Heather Malott

(valued at $750), and Kaille Campbell won $1,500 in the 50/50 draw. In the photo

Joshua Waite sitting on the ATV with SWOC members, left to right, Robert Gagnier, Ray Waite and Dan Reive.

SWOC BIG BUCK SHOW WINNER

Section B – May 8, 2024

Creating an outdoor oasis

Homeowners have various options when designing outdoor living spaces. Above all else, spaces should be created with the goal of encouraging people to want to spend more time outside. Here are some ideas:

Poolside retreat

Homeowners with pools and other water features likely want this area to be the star of the entertaining space. Furniture will be more of the lounging variety, with comfortable chaises and spots to catch the sun. If a swim-up bar isn’t possible, a rolling bar cart can be stocked with essentials for cocktails or mocktails for the kids. Furniture near the pool will be exposed to a lot of sun, so look for durable, sun-resistant fabrics.

Fireside nook

Gathering around an outdoor fireplace or fire pit is a treat when the weather cools down. Mirror the look of the same setup indoors by arranging outdoor sofas so they flank the fireplace. Add some ottomans or side tables for stowing mulled cider or hot chocolate. A mantel above the fireplace can hold pots of greenery or candles that add to the ambiance.

Consider a custom banquette

Unused corners on a patio can utilize a custom-made banquette that provides the functionality of a sofa sectional outdoors. Have a contractor design it to the exact specifications of the area, and add a rug to ground the space.

Vary the flooring

Depending on the entertaining space, a balance of soft grass, pavers or other hardscape will be necessary. Certain areas will need to be hard enough for chairs and other furniture, particularly for those who are including an outdoor dining table in the design.

Create some privacy

Some homeowners are lucky enough to have natural barriers that offer privacy in their entertaining spaces. When there isn’t enough, tall shrubs, inexpensive bamboo fencing or trellis can provide a blind that makes an outdoor living area more cozy and private. Consider placing tall, potted plants on rolling casters to improve privacy as the need arises.

Home renos with the best ROI

As a homeowner, it’s natural to desire a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing living space. However, it’s also crucial to consider the financial aspect of home renovations. Investing in projects that offer a high return on investment (ROI) can not only enhance your living experience but also increase the value of your property. Here are five home renovation projects that deliver impressive ROI, making them smart choices for homeowners looking to boost their property value.

Kitchen Remodeling:

The kitchen is a desirable space for potential buyers and a well-executed renovation can significantly increase your home’s value. Modernize with quality appliances, energy-efficient fixtures and stylish countertops. Opt for a timeless design, ample storage space. A kitchen remodel typically offers a 60-80% return on investment.

Bathroom Upgrades:

Upgrading bathrooms enhances home appeal, turning them into personal sanctuaries. Install energy-efficient fixtures, upgrade shower/ bathtub and replace outdated tiles. Incorporate modern design and maximize storage. A well-designed bathroom upgrade yields a 60-70% return on investment.

Curb Appeal Enhancements:

First impressions matter, so invest in landscaping, painting and a new front door. Create an inviting exterior. Curb appeal enhancements provide a 50-80% return on investment, depending on the project scope.

Energy-Efficient Improvements:

Energy-efficient upgrades are valued by homeowners. Install solar panels, upgrade insulation and replace old windows. Lower utility bills and attract buyers. Energy-efficient upgrades yield a 50-70% return on investment.

Basement Renovation:

Transform underutilized basements into functional living spaces. Add bedrooms, a home office or a recreational area. Ensure insulation, lighting and ventilation. A well-designed basement renovation offers a 50-75% return on investment.

Creating a relaxing bathroom retreat

One of the more popular ways to turn a home into one’s own personal retreat is to upgrade the bathroom. A renovated bathroom can completely transform how individuals feel about their homes. The following are some features to consider when remodeling a bathroom with relaxation in mind.

Heated features

Additional features to keep everyone calm and warm can be considered when upgrading the bathroom. Radiant flooring can ensure everyone’s toes remain toasty, and the installation of such a feature can eliminate the need for floor mats and bath mats that some homeowners may not like. Commit further to the heat theme with a heated towel rack, which is another feature associated with luxury hotels that can be just as enjoyable at home.

Soaking tub

An open shower creates an instant feeling of luxury, but few things are more suggestive of relaxation than a soaking tub. A long day at school or the office or a day when winter winds are howling outside is made much better with a good a soak. The National Kitchen & Bath Association notes that luxury bathrooms featuring soaking tubs are wildly popular, and that vaunted status is undoubtedly due to the relaxing benefits of a good soak.

Skylight

Even if the goal of a luxury bathroom is to leave the outside world outside, allowing some natural light inside is a great way to add a little extra calm to the room. Floor-to-ceiling windows may seem appealing in brochures or advertisements, but such features do not create the sense of privacy many people prefer in their bathrooms. One or two skylights can create that sense of privacy and still allow for natural light to enter the room, making this an option that provides the best of both worlds.

Open shower

An open shower is a visually stunning addition to any bathroom. Such showers give a bathroom a more open look, thanks in part to the fact that these modern features do not feature a door or require the use of a shower curtain. The result is a clean look that many people associate with a luxury hotel. When speaking with a contractor about an open shower install, homeowners can ask about a half-wall to safeguard against water splashing out of the shower. In addition, a heat lamp can help ensure residents stay warm until they’re ready to leave the bathroom.

Signs your deck may need to be repaired or replaced

Harsh winter weather can take its toll on a deck, and the following are some telltale signs that a deck could be in need of repair or replacement.

• FADED PAINT: Faded paint can turn an otherwise lovely deck into an eyesore, and paint can fade over the winter. A local painter or deck expert can address a faded deck and may recommend some additional strategies to safeguard the deck against fading next winter and beyond.

• HOLES IN THE WOOD: Many a homeowner has encountered curiouslooking holes in their deck. This could be a sign of insect infestation. Termites, carpenter ants and carpenter bees are among the various types of insects that can bore holes through wood. Homeowners who notice holes throughout their deck are urged to call a deck professional and/ or pest control firm to assess the holes and offer a solution. Though small issues may be addressed with repairs, a deck littered with holes caused by insects may need a full replacement.

• RUST: Wood decks may be made of wood, but they can still exhibit signs of rust, namely in the nails and metal connectors that hold the deck together. If screws have rusted to the point where they are no longer holding the deck together, a full-

scale replacement could be in the cards, as the deck could have substantial structural damage. Like other issues that can reveal themselves during a springtime inspection of the deck, rust necessitates a thorough examination by an experienced decking professional.

• WOBBLY UNDERFOOT AND IN HAND: Wobbly planks and railings tend to reveal themselves rather quickly when examining a deck after winter. Wobbly planks in the middle of the deck can be inconvenient, but wobbly steps and railings can be dangerous. A local decking professional can assess the extent of the rot in railings and elsewhere and determine the best course of action. If the rot is isolated to an area or two, a simple repair may be all that’s necessary. Extensive rot may require a full replacement of the existing deck.

Things to consider when installing a pool

A pool can be the ultimate retreat for relaxation and recreation. But before you dive headfirst into pool installation, here are a few things to consider:

Assess Your Space:

Before breaking ground, take a good look at your backyard. Consider the size and layout of your space, as well as any existing landscaping or structures that may impact the pool’s placement. Consulting with a professional pool installer can help you determine the best location and design for your specific needs.

Set Your Budget:

Installing a pool is a significant investment, so it’s crucial to establish a budget early on. Factor in not only the cost of installation but also ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades. Remember, quality materials and construction will ensure your pool stands the test of time, so it’s worth investing in superior craftsmanship.

Choose the Right Type of Pool:

From traditional inground pools to sleek and modern infinity designs, the options are endless. Consider your aesthetic preferences, maintenance requirements and intended use when selecting the type of pool that’s right for you. Don’t forget to explore eco-friendly options like saltwater systems or energy-efficient pumps to minimize your environmental impact.

Prioritize Safety:

Safety should always be a top priority when installing a pool. Be sure to comply with local regulations regarding fencing, gates and other safety measures to prevent accidents and ensure peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Additionally, consider investing in safety covers, alarms and swimming lessons for added protection.

Plan for Maintenance:

Owning a pool requires ongoing maintenance to keep it clean, safe and sparkling all season long. Familiarize yourself with basic maintenance tasks like skimming, vacuuming and chemical balancing, or enlist the help of a professional pool service to handle the dirty work for you.

Think Beyond the Pool:

While the main attraction may be the pool itself, don’t overlook the importance of surrounding amenities. Think about incorporating features like a poolside patio, outdoor kitchen or cozy fire pit to enhance your outdoor living experience. Creating a seamless blend of comfort and functionality will ensure your backyard oasis is the envy of the neighbourhood.

Planting a butterfly friendly garden

If you’re an avid gardener or simply someone who appreciates the natural world, creating a butterfly-friendly garden is an excellent way to attract these enchanting insects and support their populations. Here are some key tips to help you transform your garden into a haven for butterflies.

• Plant nectar-rich flowers like marigolds, zinnias and butterfly bush. These vibrant blooms will attract butterflies and provide them with a rich source of food.

• Include host plants like milkweed and parsley to support the butterfly life cycle. These plants serve as food for caterpillars and encourage butterflies to lay their eggs in your garden.

• Embrace diverse colours and shapes to attract butterflies. Plant a variety of flowers in different hues and sizes to create an enticing environment for these graceful insects.

• Provide sunny and shady areas for basking and shelter. Butterflies need both sunny spots to warm their bodies and shady areas to rest and seek refuge from strong winds.

• Avoid pesticides and opt for natural pest control methods. Pesticides can be harmful to butterflies and other beneficial insects, so use organic alternatives or companion planting techniques to keep pests at bay.

• Place shallow dishes or birdbaths with pebbles for water sources. Butterflies need water to survive, and these water features will provide them with a safe drinking spot.

Spring 2024 home trends

The home design trends for spring 2024 reflect a desire for tranquility and a connection with nature, while embracing elegance and modernity. Here are some of the current trends:

Neutral, calm colour palettes

Neutral colour palettes continue to reign supreme in spring 2024. Soft hues such as beige, ivory, taupe and greige dominate interior spaces, creating a serene and versatile backdrop. These muted tones serve as a canvas for homeowners to infuse their personal style through accessories and accents. The understated elegance of neutral colours allows for effortless coordination with various design elements.

Curved and rounded furniture styles

Straight lines and sharp angles are giving way to curved and rounded furniture styles this spring. Sofas with sinuous contours, circular coffee tables and armchairs with graceful curves are all the rage. These organic shapes add a sense of fluidity and movement to a room, creating a more inviting and relaxed atmosphere. From upholstered pieces to statement furnishings, the trend towards embracing natural forms is evident.

Timeless kitchen designs

The kitchen remains the heart of the home, and this spring it showcases a timeless design aesthetic. Clean lines, minimalistic cabinetry and high-quality materials take centre stage. Neutral colour schemes, such as classic whites, greys and warm earth tones, create a sense of sophistication. Integrated appliances and concealed storage solutions contribute to a clutter-free environment, enhancing the kitchen’s functionality and visual appeal.

Harmonizing with nature

Bringing the outdoors in is a significant trend this spring, with organic modern décor taking centre stage. Natural materials like wood, rattan and jute are paired with sleek lines and contemporary silhouettes. The combination of earthy textures and modern design elements creates a harmonious blend, emphasizing a connection to nature and providing a calming influence within the home.

Modern coastal influences

Coastal-inspired décor takes on a modern twist this season, offering a fresh take on the classic beach aesthetic. Soft blues, sandy neutrals and ocean-inspired hues evoke a sense of tranquility and relaxation. Furniture featuring light and airy designs, reminiscent of beachside living, brings a coastal vibe to any interior. Natural fibres, such as linen and seagrass, along with nautical accents, complete the modern coastal look.

Natural stone surfaces

When it comes to surfaces, natural stone reigns supreme this spring. Marble, granite and quartzite are coveted for their timeless appeal and durability. From kitchen countertops to bathroom vanities, natural stone surfaces add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any space. With their unique veining and textures, they create visual interest and become a focal point in a room.

Signs you should call a plumber

Plumbing issues can be a headache, but knowing when to call a plumber can save you from a major headache down the line. Here are some examples of when you should seek professional assistance:

Persistent dripping: Even a small leak can lead to significant water damage over time. Water can seep into walls, floors and ceilings, causing structural damage, mold growth and deterioration of building materials. By calling a plumber, you can identify the source of the leak and prevent further damage to your property.

Sewer Line Problems: Foul odors emanating from your drains or toilets, sewage backups or unusual gurgling sounds can indicate issues with your sewer line. Contact a plumber promptly to avoid potential health hazards and prevent further damage.

Low water pressure: A plumber can accurately diagnose the cause of low water pressure which may be caused by hidden leaks, blockages and damaged components.

Burst pipes: A burst pipe is a plumbing emergency that requires immediate attention. A plumber can quickly assess the situation, stop the water flow and repair or replace the damaged pipe, preventing further water damage and ensuring the safety and integrity of your plumbing system.

Clogged drains: While you may attempt to tackle the problem yourself with store-bought drain cleaners or DIY methods, these often provide temporary relief and do not address the underlying issue. A plumber can identify the root cause of the clog, whether it’s a buildup of debris, tree root intrusion, or a more complex plumbing problem.

Plumbing installations: Whenever you need to install new plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks or showers, it's best to rely on a plumber as they have the expertise to ensure proper installation, preventing leaks and future complications.

Keeping your lawn vibrant

Here are some tips to help your grass stay as green and vibrant as possible:

• Follow a regular watering schedule. Establish a consistent watering schedule, preferably in the early morning or late evening to minimize water loss due to evaporation. Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day.

• Don’t overwater: Excessive moisture can lead to shallow root growth and create favourable conditions for disease and weed growth. Aim for about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water per week, including rainfall.

• Aerate the soil: Aerating your lawn helps alleviate soil compaction and allows air, water and nutrients to reach the roots. Use aeration tools or hire a professional to perform this task once or twice a year, depending on the condition of your soil.

• Control weeds: Regularly inspect your lawn for weeds and take appropriate action to control them. Use herbicides or natural weed control methods to prevent weeds from competing with your grass for nutrients and water.

Giving your living room a new vibe

A living room can grow stale over time and often serves as a catch-all for clothing, blankets, gadgets and other items. Upon recognizing a living room has seen better days, you may decide it’s time to give the space a new vibe. That transformation can start with these strategies.

ORGANIZE FIRST

Clutter frequently is the culprit behind a living room that may not give off the vibe individuals desire. As families grow and people add belongings, space may be at a premium. Less is more has never been a more important concept. Remove extraneous items before purchasing new furniture or transitioning to a new design. You may even want to remove everything and start from scratch before reintroducing desirable elements to the space.

SEEK THE ASSISTANCE OF PROFESSIONALS

Some people are adept at decorating and designing spaces. But just as you wouldn’t perform your own medical procedures, you should leave jobs like interior design and renovations to the professionals. Hiring a professional interior designer and contractors can really bring a living room together in ways you may have never imagined. These pros can build off of your ideas and truly create a space that may be worthy of a magazine spread.

PROMOTE WELLNESS

You may want to consider adding natural materials in the design to promote well-being. Eco-friendly furnishings, raw fibers and organic textures will create an environment from sustainable choices. Plenty of plants also can create a welcoming environment that helps you surround yourself with positive energy and the items you love.

LIGHT IT UP

One of the easiest ways to transform a room’s vibe is to utilize lighting. Change draperies to allow more natural light to shine in. Consider additional windows or skylights if yours is a particularly dark home. If you desire to create a more vivid or cozy ambiance, use a combination of accent, task and supplemental lighting in the space so there are no dim corners.

CREATE AN INDUSTRIAL OR URBAN VIBE

Even those who live in suburbia or out in the country can give a living room this look with subtle nods to the style. Unadorned windows, clean lines on furniture, oversized, gallery-style art and metal accents can add touches of this popular look to your home.

Tips to revitalize a garden

Gardening is a rewarding hobby that pays a host of significant dividends. Many people love gardening because it allows them to spend time outdoors, and that simple pleasure is indeed a notable benefit of working in a garden. But experts say that gardening provides a host of additional benefits, including helping people get sufficient levels of exercise, reduce stress and improve mood.

With so much to gain from gardening, it’s no wonder people look forward to getting their hands dirty in the garden each spring. As the weather warms up, consider these tips to help bring a garden back to life:

· Discard the dead weight. Winter can take its toll on a garden, even in regions where the weather between December and early spring is not especially harsh. Discard dead plants that have lingered into spring and prune any perennials that need it. Branches that fell during winter storms also should be removed at this point if they have not previously been discarded.

· Test the soil. Soil testing kits can be purchased at local garden centres and home improvement retailers. Such tests are inexpensive and can reveal if the soil needs to be amended to help plants thrive in the months to come.

· Mulch garden beds. Mulching benefits a garden by helping soil retain moisture and preventing the growth of weeds. Various garden experts note that mulching in spring can prevent weed seeds from germinating over the course of spring and summer. That means plants won’t have to fight with weeds for water when the temperature warms up. It also means gardeners won’t have to spend time pulling weeds this summer.

· Inspect your irrigation system. Homeowners with in-ground irrigation systems or above-ground systems that utilize a drip or soaker function can inspect the systems before plants begin to bloom. Damaged sprinkler heads or torn lines can deprive plants of water they will need to bloom and ultimately thrive once the weather warms up.

· Tune up your tools. Gardening tools have likely been sitting around gathering dust since fall. Serious gardeners know that tools can be expensive, so it pays to protect that investment by maintaining the tools. Sharpened pruners help make plants less vulnerable to infestation and infection. Well-maintained tools like shovels and hoes also make more demanding gardening jobs a little bit easier, so don’t forget to tune up your tools before the weather warms up.

Budget-friendly ways to freshen up your home’s exterior

As any homeowner knows, renovation projects tend to cost a lot of money; however, navigating such an expense at a time when inflation remains high might be difficult for some homeowners. Here are some budget-friendly ways homeowners can tend to the exterior of their property:

• Power washing: Power washing won’t break the bank and it can help revive the look of a home.

• Furnished front porch: A furnished front porch can serve as a welcome sign to neighbours and provide a great place to relax with a morning cup of coffee and a good book.

• Window box installation: Installing window box planters is another cost-effective way to brighten a home’s exterior. They can be filled with brightly coloured flowers to add an inviting pop of colour to home exteriors.

• Replace hardware: Replacing dated door knobs, knockers, house numbers and even the mailbox can have a profound impact on how the exterior of a home appears.

Spring cleaning tips

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up your living space; it’s an opportunity to declutter and create a harmonious environment that reflects the vibrant energy of the season. To help you make the most of your spring cleaning efforts, here is a set of practical tips and a handy checklist of items to guide you through the process:

1. Declutter and Donate:

• Begin by decluttering each room, sorting items into three categories: keep, donate and discard.

• Donate gently used clothes, books and household items to local charities or shelters.

• Dispose of broken or irreparable items responsibly.

2. Gleaming Bathrooms:

• Scrub and disinfect toilets, bathtubs, showers and sinks.

• Clean mirrors and glass surfaces using streakfree cleaners.

• Replace shower curtains or liners if necessary.

• Organize bathroom cabinets and discard expired medications or beauty products.

3. Refresh Your Bedrooms:

• Launder and rotate bedding, including pillows, duvets and mattress covers.

• Vacuum and flip mattresses to extend their lifespan.

• Dust and wipe down furniture, including headboards, nightstands and dressers.

• Organize closets, donating or storing out-ofseason clothing.

4. Deep Clean Your Kitchen:

• Empty and clean out your refrigerator, discarding expired items and wiping down shelves.

• Clean kitchen cabinets, paying attention to grease and grime buildup.

• Scrub stove burners, oven and microwave thoroughly.

• Descale and clean your coffee maker and other small appliances.

5. Revitalize Your Living Spaces:

• Dust and polish furniture, including coffee tables, shelves and entertainment centres.

• Clean upholstery and launder or vacuum curtains.

• Wipe down light fixtures and ceiling fans.

• Clean or steam carpets and rugs.

6. Brighten Up Windows and Floors:

• Wash windows inside and out, removing dirt and grime.

• Clean window sills and tracks.

• Sweep, vacuum or mop floors, paying attention to corners and hard-to-reach areas.

• Polish hardwood floors and apply a fresh coat of wax if needed.

Spring cleaning checklist

Scrub

Donation

Labels

Garage storage solutions

While many people focus on tidying up their interiors, one often overlooked area deserves special attention: the garage. Here are some expert tips on how to transform a cluttered garage:

CATEGORIZE AND SORT:

Begin by categorizing the items in your garage into groups such as tools, sports equipment, gardening supplies and seasonal décor. Remove everything from the garage and sort into piles based on the respective categories. This process will provide a clear overview of what you have and help you identify items that can be donated, sold or discarded.

OPTIMIZE VERTICAL SPACE:

Utilize the often-underutilized vertical space in your garage. Install sturdy wall-mounted shelving units to store frequently used items within easy reach. Consider adding hooks, pegboards or slatwall systems to hang tools, bicycles and other equipment. By taking advantage of the vertical space, you’ll free up valuable floor area and create a more organized environment.

UTILIZE PLASTIC CONTAINERS:

Invest in stackable plastic containers with lids to store items that are not frequently used, protecting them from dust and moisture. Label each container to make finding items a breeze and stack them neatly against a wall or on overhead shelves.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF CEILING STORAGE:

If floor and wall space are limited, explore the possibilities of ceiling storage. Overhead racks or pulley systems provide an ideal solution for large, bulky items like seasonal decorations or camping gear. Ensure that these storage solutions are securely installed, and always adhere to weight limits for safety.

INSTALL MAGNETIC STRIPS:

Small metal tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers and pliers often get lost in the clutter. Install magnetic strips on your garage walls to keep these items organized and readily accessible. You’ll never have to search for a missing tool again.

SAFETY FIRST:

Ensure that your garage remains a safe and hazard-free zone. Install fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Keep flammable items away from potential ignition sources and store chemicals in locked cabinets. Additionally, maintain clear pathways for easy access and install proper lighting to enhance visibility.

REGULAR MAINTENANCE:

Once you’ve organized your garage, make it a habit to conduct regular maintenance and decluttering sessions. Set aside time each season to reassess your storage needs, discard unnecessary items and reorganize as required. A little effort throughout the year will help you maintain an orderly and functional garage in the long run.

“We decided to freshen up our cottage that was built in the 1950s. It has unique features including high ceilings and we wanted a professional job. Jim responded promptly to our request for a quote and completed the project efficiently. Very pleased and would highly recommend Southpoint Painting. Jim’s easy-going personality made it a pleasure to deal with him! Thank-you Jim!

Already thinking of more projects we would like you to do.”

Lynn & Bob - Leamington

“We recently had Jim from Southpoint Painting come by and paint the ceiling and walls of our entire house. He was fast to respond, and he fit us in quickly. His work was fantastic with a good price and he completed it in exactly the time he told us. I would highly recommend Jim from Southpoint Painting! Thanks Jim.”

Jody & Jason - Essex

“I recently had Jim from Southpoint Painting come to paint a room in my home. He was quick to respond and scheduled me in promptly. His precision and eye for detail was very evident. He did a wonderful job and was very clean and tidy through the process. I will definitely be reaching back out to him for all my painting jobs in the future. Thanks again!”

Sue - Cottam

“Jim at Southpoint Painting completed two bathrooms and a bedroom for me recently. He was very professional, the job looks amazing and he was very efficient. I would recommend him to anyone!”

Mary - Cottam

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