Minister of Education attends Erie Migration District School open house
By Paul Forman
Politicians, trustees, board administration, teachers, students and parents gathered in the gymnasium of Erie Migration-Secondary on December 17 to formally celebrate Kingsville’s newest school at its inaugural open house. A special guest in attendance for the evening was Jill Dunlop, Ontario’s newest Minister of Education.
When asked about her
first impression of the new K-12 school, Dunlop said, “It really is a beautiful school and will be great for this community. The tech rooms are incredible, and the performance arts rooms are amazing.”
The open house began with a welcome from Erie Migration Elementary Principal Darin Carroll and a stirring rendition of “O Canada” by school staff and students.
Minister Dunlop was
next to address those in attendance.
“As a new Minister of Education, this will be my first school opening. There is no denying that the school space is the heart of the community and how important it is for young families to have a school close to home,” she said. “This year marks a new beginning as this K-12 school opened its doors to almost 1,700 students and 165 staff members. Stu-
dents can look forward to bright futures in this modern building that features key learning spaces. With an investment of nearly 60 million dollars from the government of Ontario, this site, with all of its amenities, will serve the area families for many, many years to come. I’m confident that this new school will be a place where students and staff will feel welcome and be part of something special.”
Essex MPP Anthony Leardi, Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers, GECDSB Director of Education Vicki Houston and Erie Migration Secondary Principal Sara Balsdon also spoke at the event, while bands from each panel entertained the audience between addresses.
The evening ended with an opportunity to check out the new digs on tours led by secondary students from the new school.
The Erie Migration District School open house included, from left, Director of Education Vicki Houston, Elementary Principal Darin Carroll, Ontario Minister of Education Jill Dunlop, Secondary Principal Sara Balsdon, Mayor Dennis Rogers, MPP Anthony Leardi, and GECDSB Chairperson Gale Simko-Hatfield. Additional photos are on page 2.
SUN photo by Paul Forman
INSIDE THE NEW ERIE MIGRATION DISTRICT SCHOOL
The recent open house at the new K-12 Erie Migration District School allowed visitors to see some of the learning areas. On the left, cutting-edge technology is being utilized by the
dents in the manufacturing technology room, while on the right, talent was in abundance on the walls of the visual arts classroom. Student work will
competitions.
Pelee Island is now connected via high-speed fibre
The Township of Pelee has announced that construction of high-speed broadband infrastructure is now complete on Pelee Island and customer installations have begun. The project brings fi-
bre-to-the-home internet service to nearly 500 homes, businesses and government offices on the island.
Made possible through nearly $20 million in funding from the Gov-
BUYING? SELLING? CALL ME.
SHANNON
ernment of Canada’s Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) and the Government of Ontario’s Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program, the project included the installation of two redundant submarine fibre optic cables installed from the mainland to Pelee.
On the island, a series of fibre optic cables have been installed to bring services of up to 1,000 Mbps to every home and business. The network is seamlessly connected to the mainland internet
infrastructure, ensuring fast and reliable service for the island community.
“I cannot say enough good things about our municipal staff and project management team who have gone above and beyond to facilitate this work, and our council that was determined to form an impactful partnership with both levels of government and NFTC” said Cathy Miller, Mayor of the Township of Pelee. “Thank you to the NFTC team for advancing this unique proj-
ect and all the hard work done to date. This is what working together looks like.”
In partnership with the municipality, the North Frontenac Telephone Company installed fibre-optic throughout the island and in select areas on the mainland. IT Telecom installed submarine fibres between Pelee and the mainland. Servicing more than 47 kilometres of on-island roadway with fibre-optic cabling, the high-speed network will provide 478 homes and businesses on the is-
land with access to fast, reliable broadband service.
In addition to this, the network will provide service to 310 mainland premises between Elmdale and Tilbury. Customer installations on Pelee Island are being prioritized to households that will be occupied over the winter season. Connections for seasonal households will commence in the spring of 2025, aligning with the return of residents to the island.
stu-
soon be put to the test in two upcoming
SUN photos by Paul Forman
Children’s Aid still in need of support
With the holiday season upon us, Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Foundation (WECAF) is seeing first-hand the multitude of challenges experienced by families and youth, particularly youth who live independently. Most of these individuals deal with financial and social challenges that make it even more difficult to celebrate what should be a joyous time of year.
This is where the WE-
CAF Holiday Program attempts to fill in the gaps to assure that a meal, warm clothing, household items, and individual gifts are all part of enriching the lives of the children, youth and families that the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society supports. Through the generosity of the community, close to 1,200 children and youth served by the Society will have gifts under their Christmas trees this year.
However, to ensure that each child and their families have food over the holidays, WECAF is appealing to the community to help with a financial contribution to cover the cost of grocery gift cards. The need is enormous. A suggested donation that will support the average family of four is $150, however, any amount is welcome.
Visit wecaf.on.ca to donate today.
Kingsville Friendly Club report
Kingsville Friendly Club president Bob Bell welcomed 35 members who came out to play cards at the Unico Centre on Tuesday, December 17.
Scores in Bridge: Bert Patrick 3730, Roy Trowell 3520, Kim Hamm 3410. Euchre: Rick Wynants 89,
Willy Fittler 88, Debbie Everaert and Bill Fielding 87. Most lone hands: Rick Wynants and Kenny Bachmeier 5. Cribbage: Sue Girardin 1022, Marie Geeves 995, Bob Bell 958. Three celebrants who were missed on the December birthday list were Ed Fraser, Chris Hamm
and Dave Malley. Happy birthday to all!
If you are over age 50 and enjoy playing cards, you are welcome to join the Kingsville Friendly Club at the Unico Centre.
Doors open at noon and play begins at 12:45.
Leamington Bridge Club results
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.
Dec. 13: North/South - 1st Pauline Mikolash and Roger Cote,
2nd George Hildebrandt and Henry Hildebrandt, 3rd Kate Comiskey and Frank Duransky. East/West - 1st Dale Smith and Dave Derbyshire, 2nd Case Mulder and Derek Parry, 3rd Katy Klym and Rowe Deans.
Dec. 16: North/South - 1st Roger Cote and Pauline Mikolash, 2nd Kate Comiskey and Frank Duransky, 3rd Henry Hildebrandt and George Hildebrandt. East/West - 1st Agnes Fraser and Ross Macintosh, 2nd Dale Smith and Monique Sadler, 3rd Sally Bell and Bob Bell.
GABRIELE GIVES TO THE BRIDGE
The Christmas season is all about giving and Gabriele Floor and Home recently donated furnishings for four independent housing units to The Bridge Youth Resource Centre. The donation from Gabriele assists The Bridge with supporting youth transitioning into independent living. From left are Shelly Gabriele Gale and Dana Church from Gabriele and Krista Rempel, Executive Director of The Bridge Youth Resource Centre. SUN photo
The annual Leamington Firefighters Boot Drive has benefited the Salvation Army Leamington to
Christmas Schedule - Everyone Welcome
GIVING WEEK AT EAST MERSEA P.S.
Each year East Mersea Public School organizes a Giving Week. Every day throughout the first week in December, students bring in items to donate to the Wheatley Community Chest. Each day they collect a different item, from canned goods, toiletries, hats and gloves, to finally toys. The Kindergarten students stacked the items for donation to resemble a Christmas tree and are so proud of their “small school with a big heart.” Front row, left to right:
Community Calendar
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25
CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE at St. John The Evangelist Church, 60 Erie St. N. Leamington, 11:00 a.m. Dinner to follow. Everyone welcome.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25
30TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DINNER at St. John the Evangelist Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington, for those who will be alone or who will go without on Christmas Day. Dine-in 12 noon or takeout pickup at 1:00 p.m. Delivery available for shut-ins in Leamington, Kingsville, Wheatley only. Must register by noon Dec. 24 for dine-in, pickup or delivery 519-326-311. No cost or obligation
MONDAY, JANUARY 6
SOUTH POINT UKELELE GROUP (SPUG) is starting up again on Monday nights from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. starting Mon. Jan. 6 at St. John’s Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. SPUG is for anyone who loves playing the ukulele. $5 per session, proceeds go to the church kitchen. More info: Lionel Knights 519-398-9645.
ONGOING
HURON FARMWORKERS MINISTRY takes place Thursday afternoons at 4:00 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Workers can access a simple meal, clothing, food items, spiritual care and employment/immigration information. The program is in need of used or new bicycles to assist workers with transportation. Contact Deacon Deborah Wilson-Safa at 519326-3111.
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.
IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, THAT’S YOUR BUSINESS If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous: 519-999-1234.
SOUTH ESSEX COMMUNITY COUNCIL - ADULT DAY PROGRAM - Join us at Faith Mennonite for a day service providing social, recreational and personal support to clients and respite. For more information or to register, call SECC at 519-326-8629 or visit our website at secc.on.ca.
FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE at Leamington United Mennonite Church, 78 Oak St. East, for those who enjoy morning coffee/tea and conversation,
the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 a.m. in church auditorium. All welcome, no RSVP required.
INDIVIDUALS WHO REQUIRE ASSESSMENTS TO ENTER TREATMENT PROGRAMS FOR ADDICTIONS can contact Ian MacNeil, Social Worker with Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare, located at 33 Princess St. (1st floor) in Leamington, on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. You can leave a message 24/7 at 519-984-2531. Contact Ian at this number for more information.
ERIE SHORES TOASTMASTERS MEETING at 6:30 p.m. every other Wednesday at the Leamington Library, 1 John St., Leamington. Visit for free! 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.
VOLUNTEER TUTORS NEEDED - the United Way’s On Track to Success program is looking for individuals to help tutor high school students in Leamington in English, Math and/or Science. The program is offered at both LDSS & Cardinal Carter. Volunteer shifts available Monday to Thursday from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. If interested, contact Maia Williamson at mwilliamson@weareunited.com
STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL HEALTH? Reach out to Hope 4 Me Peer to Peer Support Group. Virtual and in-person meetings available. Contact Tracy, Sue or Nancy at hope4mepeer@gmail.com for information about the group.
WHEATLEY BAPTIST CHURCH - 47 Talbot St. E. Everyone is welcome to come worship with us. Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Bible study Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. Adult fellowship Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m. For more info call 519-825-7433.
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.
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.
ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT SOMEONE’S DRINKING? Al-Anon Family Groups meeting information: 519-790-7739 or www. alanonwindsoressex.com
COOKING WITH CHARTWELL - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd.; 3rd Thursday of every month. Step by step cooking class with Chef Henry. Samples served. Spots are limited. Register kim@kingsvillecentre.com.
CENTRE CAFE - Open Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:00 am to noon. Have a coffee & a snack on us! Use computer to work on resume, print documents, surf web. Free Wifi available. 1860 Division Rd. N. Kingsville.
COMMUNITY ANGEL CLOTHING CUPBOARD OPEN WEDNESDAYSappointments preferred, walk-ins are welcome 11:00 am - 2:00 pm. Call 519-326-3111 to book your appointment. All are welcome! Free! St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Donated gently used clothing for men, women and children of all ages.
MELO CLINIC & PREGNANCY CENTRE, 75 Erie Street South, Unit 103, Leamington, offers free and confidential services provided by registered nurses. Pregnancy tests, STI testing & treatment. Call 24/7 for confidential support 519-326-0612. Business calls 519-3263821. www.pregnancycentre.net.
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 226340-7233, 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.
WESTOVER - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd. N. Tuesdays 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Pre-treatment or after-care program for substance misuse. Do you, a friend or family member struggle with substance misuse? Come learn about the solution process. Drop-in group session. No registration required.
MELO CLINIC & PREGNANCY CENTRE, 75 Erie Street South, Unit 103, Leamington, offers free and confidential services provided by registered nurses. Pregnancy tests, STI testing & treatment. Call 24/7 for confidential support 519-326-0612. Business calls 519-3263821. www.pregnancycentre.net.
VOLUNTEER TUTORS NEEDED for the On Track to Success Program. United Way is looking for individuals to help tutor high school students in Leamington. Volunteer shifts available Monday to Thursday from 2:30-4:30 p.m. If interested contact Maia Williamson at mwilliamson@weareunited.com
KINGSVILLE MILITARY MUSEUM, is open Tuesday to Friday, 9am1pm & Saturday 9am-12pm, 145 Division St. S. (in Legion parking lot). Closed Sunday, Monday & holidays. Displays include medals from Boer War, WWI, WWII, Korea, and much more. Admission by donation. More info: kingsvillemilitarymuseum.ca
THE PET PANTRY at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church stocks (as available) dog and cat food for struggling pet owners. Take as needed or add pet food to share with others. Monetary donations are gladly accepted and appreciated on Wednesday mornings from 9amnoon or by calling 519-326-3966 and leave a message.
T.O.P.S. - Take Off Pounds Sensibly - Meetings are held every Tuesday evening at the Leamington Half Century Centre, 160 Talbot St. E. Weigh-in from 6:00 - 6:45 pm. Meeting 7:00 - 7:30 pm. First meeting is free. For more inforamtoin call Joan at 519-326-2388. Everyone welcome.
MEMORY CAFE - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd., 2nd and 4th Wednesdays join the Alzheimer's Society for a FREE gathering place for people living with dementia, their care partners, families, and friends to relax, and enjoy refreshments. It provides socialization, discussions, and entertainment all in a coffee shop environment.
MUSICIANS AND SINGERS
the tune of $15,000. The cheque presentation was recently made at the fire hall. From left are Fire Chief Don Williamson, Firefighter Jaydon Tannous, Firefighter Eric Wright, Firefighter Iman Dominguez, Salvation Army Major Ron Wickens and Assistant Fire Chief Derrick Clark. Photo submitted
Isabelle Tiessen, Travis Ouellette, Audrey Epp. Back row: Zoey Burch, Valerie Quiring, Eli Froese, Principal Ms. Savage, Mila Amaral. Photo submitted
On Sunday, December 15, Knights of Columbus Council 4501 hosted a Christmas with the Knights’ family event at St. Michael’s in Leamington. Following their delicious pancake breakfast, the 80+ attendees enjoyed a variety of games and activities. Community partners generously donated door prizes and subsidized their purchases. In the photo on the left, Alyna Van Roie creates a holiday card for local senior home residents. In the right photo, Abby Boileau creates a scratch Christmas tree ornament. Photos submitted
opinion ~ expression ~ and other musings
It’s like something out of a ‘Ribwell’ painting
Some 52 weeks ago, we embarked on a new year and Christmas seemed far away.
Now, we’re barely out of summer and the elves on the shelves have already done their thing.
The last-minute shoppers are making their final dash to the stores, sifting hopelessly through toys, games, clothes and various knickknacks— all the while grumbling about the holidays and how much the prices have skyrocketed over last year.
The in-laws have already begun arriving at homes across the nation, pursing their lips to give big kisses to unsuspect-
ing — and unwilling — grandchildren.
The squeezing of cheeks and the wetting of cowlicks will undoubtedly follow these unpleasantries.
Drunk great-aunt-anduncle will arrive later in the day, poised to cause a commotion around dinner time when they get into a knock-down-the-tree fight in the overly cramped living room.
The smell of pumpkin pie fresh out of the oven will be overtaken by the aroma of roasted turkey, but that won’t be so bad.
Grandma forgot the whipping cream, so the pie will have to have the canned kind of topping, which
will also cause a ruckus when teenage Johnny sprays teenage Susie in the face with the can.
That fight will pale in comparison to great-aunt and uncle’s fight, but the language will probably be similar.
That old glass punch bowl sits atop an antique smoker’s table in the front hallway, filled with ginger ale, fruit punch, some out-of-date maraschino cherries and a half-mickey of rum that great-aunt poured in on her way through the vestibule.
Brightly coloured wrapping paper that was discarded early in the morning sits in a big heap on
Cadillac truck in Toronto circa 1906
We usually don’t think of a Cadillac as a truck, but this was quite common in the early days of motoring. The one you see here probably began as a car but became a truck to earn its keep. If you wanted some fresh fruit or game delivered to your house in Toronto in 1906, you picked up your phone (if you had one) and asked the operator for Main 7497 or 7498. The driver would then
crank-start this truck from an opening on the side and drive off to your address powered by the 10-horsepower single-cylinder engine under the front seat. When these noisy engines fired up, nearby horses often reared in fright. The folding top tells us this truck made deliveries in all kinds of weather and a top would be deemed a necessity. All Cadillacs back then quickly earned a reputation
THE OLD CAR DETECTIVE
Bill Sherk
for precision engineering, thanks to its chief engineer, Henry Leland. In 1906, Cadillac earned the Dewar Trophy for interchangeable parts. In 1908, these cars became part of General Motors and are still with us today.
the front porch and every once in a while, the wind picks up and takes a piece onto the neighbour’s roof, where old wrapping paper goes to die.
Mom’s favourite recipe — the sweet potato casserole — sits to cool slightly on the window ledge, inviting the Labradoodle to make an inquisitive trip to yonder window for a quick smell and lick, unbeknownst to the humans who should have been watching.
As dinnertime approaches, there’s a flurry of activity in the kitchen.
The 30-pound Butterball is exiting the oven, all crispy from a last-minute broil (Mom’s idea) and the adult men begin to bicker over the skin, the giblets and the Pope’s nose.
As usual, they’re waiting for the potatoes. They never seem to be done at the same time as the turkey. They’re either done way ahead or the whole dinner is held up by the tasty tubers in their mashed state. The guys fight over who has to mash them — another annual event.
The gravy is another story.
Some people have perfected the art of making gravy, while others just spin the wheel and hope it turns out.
Too thick, too thin, not juicy enough, or even not the right colour, are words and phrases heard whispered around the table.
“She should have
brought it to a boil,” said one. “She didn’t use enough flour,” said another.
Mark Ribble
As the family quietly sits to enjoy their turkey with all the trimmings, the subject of politics rears its ugly head and we’re off to the races.
Great-uncle and greataunt, both covered in spruce needles from their earlier tree fight, now agree on something. But grandma and grampa don’t. She wants to shoot a certain orange-faced politician and he wants to give him a hug.
As the food is passed and tempers calm down, someone inevitably brings up religion, as if the political commentary wasn’t fun enough. And here we go again…
The kids table suddenly erupts with a couple of simultaneous smacks by the youngest two, who seem to be disagreeing over toys that sit 30 feet away in the living room.
All-in-all, a typical, wonderful Christmas dinner.
Nobody noticed the missing corner of the sweet potato casserole, but old Lucky almost has a satisfied smile on his muzzle. (He’d done the same with the stuffing.)
As dinner winds down and the desserts hit the table, everyone seems more festive. After all, dessert is the highlight of the day — besides the gift exchange.
Oh, you didn’t hear
about the gift exchange?
The one where all the adults spend countless hours picking out a perfect $25 unisex gift that everyone would want, then wrapping it up so names can be drawn for order of picking (and subsequent stealing).
There’s always that one person who buys things that aren’t very exciting, like laundry detergent or a case of Windex.
And then the exchange begins, except that the same person who provided the laundry soap refuses to do any stealing, effectively ending the game before it started.
The person who ended up with the laundry soap was hoping someone would steal it, but to no avail and now they are not happy with the whole thing, vowing not to participate next year.
As people shuffle out the front door, tripping over errant wrapping paper and that discarded can of whipped cream, a sigh comes over the home team, as they sit back on the couch, light their fake fireplace, turn on Netflix and ask Alexa about tomorrow’s weather.
It’s 7 pm on Christmas Day and suddenly, it’s all over.
Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night.
We wish you a Merry Christmas!
This week, we’ll look at five of the most favourite Christmas songs of all time.
Of course it’s in no particular order.
The Guinness Book of World Records named White Christmas as the best-selling Christmas song of all time and also the best-selling single with an estimated 50 million copies sold.
Pick your favourite singer!
The Christmas Song that was made the most popular by Nat King Cole may now seem a bit outdated.
The roasting of chestnuts is indeed a tradition of the past and doesn’t taste very good anyway.
However, listening to it sung by Cole’s warm ‘chesty’ vocals, paired with the romantic string accompaniment, makes for as sweet a combo as Santa’s cookies and milk.
David Bowie and Bing Crosby came out with the combo of Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth in 1977. It was not only one of Bowie’s most popular and successful songs in his incredible career, but the duet marked one of the last vocal
recordings that Crosby ever made – having recorded it just a month before his death. That being said, having Bowie as co-singer with Bing was quite a surprise. A pleasant one at that.
Now, going even further into the past, let’s add this to our real Christmas classics: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Judy Garland. It goes way back to her movie Meet Me in St. Louis and stands above all the other versions.
Complete with its Spanish bilingual lyrics and its truly universal charm, Jose Feliciano’s version of Feliz Navidad has certainly become a favourite holiday pop song over the years.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Chuck Reynolds
This Cadillac, converted to a truck, delivered items such as fruit and game to households in all kinds of weather.
Winter weather rolled into Ontario with a vengeance earlier this month, snarling traffic and stranding some motorists for hours on end in hard-hit areas. With a little road-trip planning, you can ensure your family’s safety when the snow starts to fly.
Safe winter driving means motorists should expect the unexpected and prepare for it. Here are a few recommended tips:
• Consider delaying your trip until the weather improves. Snowplow operators need time to clear the roads.
• If you must travel, be sure to check the current and forecast weather conditions and monitor the media for weather and road conditions.
• Plan your trip before starting out. Visit the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) website for road conditions at www.511on.ca or Municipal 511 at https://www.municipal511.ca/
• Ensure your fuel tank is full before hitting the road. If you encounter a lengthy traffic delay, you’ll need your vehicle’s heater to stay warm.
• Be sure to dress for winter even though you’ll be in your car. You’ll be protected if you become stranded.
• Carry a winter driving survival kit in your vehicle. Recommended items include a shovel, blanket, warm clothes, food, booster cables, flashlight, high energy foods, matches and a candle.
• Slow down, stay alert, stay in control and stay safe!
DaVinci Xi Surgical Robot comes to area
The Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation has announced that this year’s Grow On Windsor campaign has raised a record breaking $2.7 million.
The generosity of the community has made it possible to bring the DaVinci Xi Surgical Robot to the area, enhancing the future of cancer care. It replaces the original DaVinci, which has served the area cancer community for over 10 years, performing countless robotic procedures on cancer patients.
The DaVinci Xi Surgical Robot is used to perform robotic assisted, minimally invasive surgery on prostate and kidney cancer patients. Over the past five years, more than 325 procedures have been successfully performed on local prostate and kidney cancer patients.
This cutting-edge technology is more than just a piece of equipment – it’s a gamechanger for area healthcare. Robotic assisted surgery improves survival rates, reduces organ trauma and results in shorter hospital stays and faster recovery, allowing patients to return to everyday life.
JINGLE BELL RUN RAISES
$9,000
Grow On Windsor 2024 was supported by numerous organizations and thousands of donors. Corporate teams engaged in friendly headto-head challenges, while the broader community teamed up to host events and promotions around Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent.
The Jingle
Local fire departments benefit from provincial investment
The Ontario government is investing $30 million Fire Protection Grant over three years ($10 million reserved per year) to provide 374 municipal fire departments with funding to support cancer prevention initiatives.
Local fire departments included in the funding initiatives are: Leamington $8,230; Kingsville $16,460; Chatham-Kent $156,378; Lakeshore $40,000; Essex
$24,691; and Amherstburg $24,691.
The funding will be used to purchase equipment and make infrastructure upgrades to help reduce the long-term effects of exposure to fire-related contaminants and chemicals.
Firefighters are more likely to experience health problems because of exposure to hazardous chem-
icals. In Canada, 50 to 60 firefighters die of cancer every year and half of those are from Ontario.
This funding will ensure firefighters are kept safe while keeping our communities safe. The funds will see fire services across the province purchase specialized washing and drying equipment to decontaminate bunker gear and wildland firefighting coveralls. It will also allow for facility and infrastructure upgrades to allow for proper air purification and ventilation systems. There are approximately 33,000 municipal firefighters in Ontario, including over 12,500 full-time, nearly 20,000 volunteer and almost 400 part-time firefighters.
Bell Run Steering committee recently presented Community Living Essex County with a cheque for the funds raised from the 2024 Jingle Bell Run event held in November in Essex. From left are Natalie Kristy, Janell Violett, Tony DeSantis, Karen Bolger (Executive Director, Community Lving Essex County), Saylor DeSimon, Bella Iseppi, Jana Blair and James Knapp, event chair. Tate Harris was absent from the photo. Photo submitted
Pelee Peninsula sand transport report
By Wayne King Leamington Shoreline Association
Pelee Peninsula Littoral Drift Cell Definition
On Lake Erie’s north shore, sand and sediment are continuously eroded from the shoreline bluffs from Port Crew to Wheatley Provincial Park. Wave action and natural currents carry the sand southward along the
shoreline, depositing and nourishing the shorelines on its journey to south of Point Pelee National Park. This is commonly referred to as the Pelee Peninsula littoral drift cell.
Background
In 1950, the federal government constructed Wheatley Harbour to accommodate the rapidly growing commercial fishing industry. Muddy
Creek was dredged to form a docking facility and a 350-foot-long jetty was constructed to protect the entrance to the harbour. Unfortunately, the new jetty interrupted the natural north to south sand flow along the shoreline (littoral drift), trapping much of it on the north side of the jetty, where it accumulates and drifts into the harbour, clogging the entrance and
Going away this winter?
making it dangerous and difficult for the fishing fleet to navigate the narrow opening.
To remedy this dangerous situation at the harbour entrance, several times a year the federal government provides costly dredging operations to remove the sand and transport it to Hillman Marsh north parking lot.
In 1978 the offshore armour stone breakwall was added, which further complicated the situation – some theorizing that it diverts sand into deeper water where it does not return to the system.
Shortly after completion of Wheatley Harbour in 1950, shoreline erosion south of the harbour began happening at an alarming rate, resulting in catastrophic damage to property, homes, Hillman Marsh and Point Pelee National Park further south.
In order to protect their homes and properties, property owners were forced to engage in costly, unsightly efforts to harden their shorelines with armour stone, concrete debris, break walls, etc. Erosion was so serious that in 1954, two homes on Pulley Road were relocated to the opposite side of the road to avoid destruction.
Over the years, at least 20 homes along the north shore were completely destroyed by erosion and wave action and countless others were severely damaged, requiring costly repairs. Numerous oth-
er properties and homes were abandoned.
To this day there are still some abandoned homes/cottages lying in ruin on the shoreline between Wheatley Harbour and Marentette Beach. At Point Pelee National Park, a number of buildings, facilities and roads were also destroyed or severely damaged.
In 1950, the Federal Government constructed Wheatley Harbour to accommodate the rapidly growing commercial fishing industry.
In 1969, the federal government acknowledged that constructing the Wheatley Harbour jetty had created this serious erosion problem south of the Wheatley Harbour. They undertook a joint venture with the federal and provincial governments, muncipality and homeowners to protect the neighbouring community by building a half-mile-long armor stone break wall south along Pulley Road. This curbed erosion along the Pulley Road community for many years, but it did nothing and even accelerated erosion in the downstream communities all the way to Point Pelee National Park, including Hillman Marsh.
Originally, the sand being dredged from Wheatley Harbour was sold by the federal government and trucked away. More recently, acknowledging the material was vital to
the sustainability of the Leamington Pelee Peninsula’s northeastern shoreline, it was loaded on barges and transported south of Pulley Road and deposited in the lake a short distance from shore. Today it is trucked from the Wheatley Harbour and deposited at the parking lot at the north end of Hillman Marsh, where it continues on its natural southerly flow towards Point Pelee National Park. In April 2017, a strong east/ northeast wind event decimated the Hillman Marsh barrier beach, especially at the southern end near East Beach Road where nearly all the trees and vegetation were toppled and destroyed.
In late 2019, wave action eroded the treeless section and breached the barrier beach, creating a 1,500-foot-wide opening to Hillman Marsh, leaving it vulnerable to the ravishes of Lake Erie.
In early 2020, sand began to accumulate at the northern end of the breach, forming a southwesterly heading sand spit into the Hillman Marsh basin. The sand spit continues to grow and change with each passing wind event. Today it extends about 1,500 feet into the Hillman Marsh basin. In addition, a sizeable sand bar has formed northwest of the end of East Beach Road.
Summary
The construction of the Wheatley Harbour jetty interrupted the natural flow of sand/sediment along the shoreline causing accelerated erosion, resulting in costly damages and remedial work for property owners, Hillman Marsh Conservation Area and Point Pelee National Park.
Climate change models predict ever-increasing lake water levels, more frequent and stronger storms and wind events. Sand is a vital element in shoreline preservation and if this situation is not dealt with, it could further increase erosion along the shoreline communities, Hillman Marsh and Point Pelee National Park.
Wheatley Harbour looking east. Drone photo courtesy of Wayne King
LIONS DONATE TO SALVATION ARMY
The Leamington Lions Club recently made a $6,000 donation to The Salvation Army Leamington and here seen presenting the cheque is Lions Club representative Dennis Edmondson, left, and Salvation Army Leamington’s Major Judi Wickens. Photo submitted
CKHA and EMS launch temporary seasonal care clinic
Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA), in partnership with Chatham-Kent EMS, have launched the Chatham-Kent Seasonal Care Clinic.
The clinic opened December 10 to provide timely clinical services to individuals with cough, cold and flu symptoms, and other minor ailments. It will operate on a temporary basis out of a trailer at the Emergency Department at CKHA’s Chatham location.
The temporary clinic is intended to provide care to the public if they do not have a physician/nurse practitioner, cannot be seen in a timely manner by their physician/nurse practitioner, and to conserve needed capacity in Emergency Departments at CKHA during the seasonal surge of cold, flu and respiratory illness. Individuals attending the clinic will be required to visit the registration desk in the Emergency Department and will be seen on a walk-in basis.
The clinic will operate Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the last registration taking place at 4:30 p.m. Individuals with any of the follow-
MAKES DONATION TO MISS LIZZY’S
Gino DelCiancio’s annual car show donation to the Miss Lizzy’s Foundation was recently presented with a cheque for $4,155.55 handed over to Rebecca Dib of the foundation. The funds were a total from the many car shows that Gino and his army of volunteers have hosted in 2024 and the foundation is close to his heart — founded by his late wife, Liz DelCiancio. Here, Gino, left, presents the cheque to Rebecca.
ERCA has grants available for tree planting
ing symptoms can choose to be seen at the Chatham-Kent Seasonal Care Clinic: cough, cold and flu symptoms, urinary tract infection, earache, rash, prescription refills, eye infection, general minor complaints.
Call your physician/nurse practitioner first if you have these symptoms and feel that you need medical care.
Consider visiting the Seasonal Care Clinic if you do not have a physician/ nurse practitioner, your symptoms are getting worse or not improving, you feel you need medical care, or you have been advised by any health professional to go to the clinic.
“This is typically the time when we see an increase in colds, flu, and respiratory illnesses. The clinic will enable our team, in partnership with community paramedics, to deliver appropriate care in the right setting,” said Natalie Clark, Clinical Director, Emergency & Intensive Care Services, Ambulatory & Virtual Based Care, Patient Flow.
For more information visit ckha.on.ca.
Chatham-Kent recycling guide now available
Chatham-Kent’s 2025 Recycling and Waste Collection Guide is now available both online and for pick up.
Residents who want a printed copy can obtain
the guide at all municipal service centres, all library branches and at CK arenas.
Residents that would like a printed copy can obtain one at these locations
starting from Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
To download the digital version of the guide, visit.chatham-kent.ca/ garbage.
The Essex Region Conservation Authority is offering grants ranging from 75% to 100% for projects that help protect the environment. Interested landowners should contact ERCA soon to learn about these grant programs and plan for spring projects.
As well, landowners interested in planting trees or creating prairie habitat on their property this spring should also be in touch.
“Planting trees on your property not only helps the environment, but can improve property value, reduce heating and cooling costs and improve the aesthetics of your land,” said Paul Giroux, ERCA’s Forester. “Some species are only available in limited quantities, so we recommend that if you are interested, to place your orders as soon as possible.”
To participate in the program, individuals must own at least one acre of land and purchase a minimum of 100 seedlings or 15 large stock trees. The deadline for ordering trees is January 31, 2025 for seedlings, and March 7 for large stock trees.
For more information about ERCA’s farm stewardship, tree planting and restoration programs,
visit essexregionconservation.ca/trees or contact Paul Giroux at 519-7765209 ext. 310 for restoration projects.
You can also attend free tree planting and care
Hello, I’m Hobbes. A bit shy at first, but give me some time and I’ll be your best friend. I love cuddles, they’re my favourite. I may be an adult, but I’ve got a goofy side that’ll make you smile. I’m loyal too, always there when you need a friend. You’ll find me waiting patiently, ready
workshop being held at John R. Park Homestead on January 14. For more information, visit essexregionconservation.ca/ treeworkshop to register.
HOBBES
to share sweet moments with you. I’m not just a cat, I’m a companion, a confidant, a source of joy. Adopt me, and I promise to fill your life with love, laughter, and endless cuddles.
Photo submitted
FLYERS HONOUR ALUMNI WITH SPECIAL NIGHT
The Leamington Flyers held their annual Alumni Night on Thursday, December 19 at the Flyers final home game of 2024. A crowd of 800 included about 80 former Flyers, coaches and staff, who were treated to some good hockey, great reminiscing and visits from familiar fans. Terry Jackson spearheaded the Alumni Night and was happy that they had such a good turnout. In the photo on the left are former Flyers Mike Epplett (’73-’74), Rob ‘Specs’ Johnston (’68-’72), Todd Hodgson (’79-’83) and Terry ‘Wacker’ Jackson
In the
Flyers alum Thomas Grubb (’98-2000) poses with his son Grady and long-time Flyers’
Flyers hat and mitten toss yields 385 donations for Toys for Tots
The annual Toys for Tots hat and mitten toss was held at the Leaming-
ton Flyers home game on Thursday, December 19 with 385 items being
thrown on the ice after the Flyers’ first goal, late in the first period.
Volunteers collected the items and brought them to the north hall-
Tina Rempel
With sadness, but grateful hearts of a life well lived, we announce the unexpected passing of our Mother, Oma and Great-Oma, Tina Rempel (Unruh). She was born July 12, 1932 in Rudnerweide, Ukraine, and passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at the age of 92 at the Windsor Regional Ouellette Campus Hospital with her children at her side. Predeceased by her loving husband of 60 years, Rudy (October 21, 2013). Loving mother of Helen Kroeker (Ken), Ed (Wendy) and Paul (Lisa). Grandmother to six grandchildren, Ryan Kroeker (Aleda Klassen), Derrick Rempel (Andrea), Jocelyn Barnwell (Wes), Kyle Rempel (Dr. Kristin Burr), Peter Rempel (Julie) and Steven Rempel (Hannah). Also survived by eight great grandchildren. She is survived by sister-in-law Helen Cornies (late Bill) and brother-in-law Harold Rempel (Helen). Predeceased by sister Annie Winter (late Henry), brothers-in-law Nick (late Mary), Art (late Irene), Ernie (late Elsie) and sister-inlaw Marianne Driedger (late John). Also survived by many nephews and nieces.
Tina farmed together with her husband for over 50 years in the Wheatley area. She had a talent for arranging flowers and sewing. Music was a passion and she sang in the church choir for many years. She was also a great cook and provided many feasts for family and friends. She was acutely interested in what was happening in her family, her social circle, in the church, in the neighborhood and around the world.
Visitation was at the Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington, on Friday, December 20, 2024 from 4-7 p.m.
A funeral service to celebrate Tina’s life was held at the Leamington United Mennonite Church, 78 Oak Street East, Leamington, on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 11 a.m. Interment for the family at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery took place before the service.
As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Leamington Mennonite Home & Apartments or UMEI.
ways of the Highbury rink to be sorted and loaded into the Toys for Tots truck, manned by Lorne Bradt and his trusty crew.
The Leamington and Area Toys for Tots organization has been going since 1989.
(’61-’62).
photo on the right,
super-fan Wes McDowell. SUN photo
Flyers Michael Denney (22) and Adrian Bosev help collect mittens and hats after the Flyers scored their first goal in last Thursday’s win over Oakville.
The Toys for Tots crew counts and sorts the donations after the hat and mitten toss, led by Kristi Bradt-Benjamin (left) and LeeAnn Bradt, both making sure the items go to the right corner. Helping are Jaden Benjamin (foreground) and Jack Benjamin (in the back). SUN photos
courtesy of the Kingsville Archives
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.
Allard and Winnifred Wigle’s home at 501 Main Street East, built in 1920. Photo was taken in the winter of 1945. This home is still with us today, with the addition of dormer windows in the upper floor, and is located just east of the Pelee Island Winery.
kingsvillearchives@gmail.com
Leamington’s Past courtesy of the C. Scott Holland Collection
Clippings from the Wheatley Journal
December 1994 - Kelly Dawn
to Santa that she has been on her best behaviour before listing a few requests when
made his official
to the
on Saturday. In similar fashion over 400 youngsters waited to convey their Christmas wishes to the jolly old elf.
Manufacturing pioneer Elizabeth Greenwood was vital early employee for Heinz Company here
by C. Scott Holland
When she retired from Heinz Canada, Elizabeth Greenwood was one of the longest serving female employees of the company and perhaps one of the longest serving females in the manufacturing sector in of all of Canada.
Fellow Heinz Canada employees, management and friends regarded her as one of the company’s most esteemed, loyal, respected and dedicated workers. She possessed vitality and ripened experience.
She was born in England and came to Canada a few years before her start with Heinz. While in England she had gained some business experience while working for a silk manufacturing company.
Upon arriving in Canada, she settled in the Niagara District and sought work during harvest season for a couple of years.
In 1908, friends told her about a new plant that was being established in Burlington, Ontario. The plant was seeking girls who were swift and skillful in the art of packing pickles. Eagerly she applied and was hired.
Under the special guidance of a teacher sent from the Pittsburgh, Pa. factory, she learned the art of packing fancy pickle and olive bottles plus the intri-
cate patterns associated with packing. When the factory moved its operations to Leamington the following year, Elizabeth was one of seven employees who went to the new location.
In Leamington, she started as the forelady of its female employees. Her skills were quickly noted and three years later she was sent to the Pittsburgh plant where she stayed for three months taking an intensive business instruction course.
During the remainder of her years at Heinz Canada, she supervised a variety of work. Among her talents was the ability to keep extremely detailed production records and these models of accuracy, as found in her time book, were often used to iron out payroll discrepancies and disputes.
Additionally, she was known as a compassionate forelady in whom employees would confide and whenever an employee was injured, she served as a nurse.
As well, she was no stranger to the mechanical side of the machinery around which she worked. Often, she could be found making repairs or adjustments to various pieces of machinery.
She retired from Heinz in 1947 and passed away on July 14, 1964.
Photo
Rivait whispered
Santa
visit
village
This shot was snapped in 1981 and shows Lakeside Bakery, where began its long history on Mill St. West. The business remained there for many years until moving to their modern facility on Erie St. S.
Elizabeth Greenwood as she looked upon her retirement from the H.J. Heinz Company.
Photo courtesy of Scott Holland Collection
Flyers head into Christmas break with victory over Oakville
By C. Scott Holland
It was a busy night on Thursday, December 19 as the Flyers hosted the Oakville Blades in their last home game before the Christmas break.
It was also Flyers Alumni Night and one of the organizers, Terry Jackson, estimated, “We have about 80 coming.”
That number may have eventually been more with the Flyers crowd of 821 watching a very spirited and hard-fought contest between 10th place Oakville Blades and the Flyers.
Leamington won the game 3-1.
Oakville goalie Chris Quizi seemed like he was facing a non-stop shooting machine as the Flyers peppered him with 50 shots, with 24 of those coming in the middle stanza. Flyers goalie Marcus Vandenberg halted 19 shots for the win.
Not long after the game’s opening faceoff, the Blades had a two-onone breakaway on which Flyers netminder Marcus Vandenberg showed why he is the league’s top puck stopper. Vandenberg tracked the two opponents and made a
stop on the shooter to deny a goal.
The Flyers pressed to get a goal until finally at 17:09 Colton Smith fired on net and Anthony Ciaramitaro had a crack at scoring before the puck bounded out to Dalton Kane who tapped it into the left side for a precious 1-0 lead.
With 10 seconds left in the opening frame, the Flyers lost Kane due to a major head contact infraction. The Blades’ Phil Roberto was sidelined two minutes for holding.
The Flyers played outstanding defensive hockey to prevent any damage as they kept Oakville’s offense from scoring. Most of the second period was spent in the Oakville zone where they hammered Quizi with an endless barrage of quality shots but failed to reap any goals. The score wouldn’t change until the third period.
Near the five-minute mark of the third, the Blades drew even as Roberto redeemed himself after spending two stints in the sin bin.
With the game tied, the Flyers got a break at 11:39 when the Blades’ Evan Le Conte was as-
Ontario Junior Hockey League West Conference Standings
sessed a four-minute kneeing penalty.
After the first two minutes had expired, Tyler McGuire fed Colton Smith whose shot Quizi kicked
out to Gavin Grundner in the slot and Grundner drilled it past him.
A late Flyers penalty allowed the Blades to pull Quizi for an extra attacker
with 2:40 left. However, the Flyers defense killed the penalty before Smith connected with Ethan Walker who skated down the ice and tapped in an
empty-net goal to seal the 3-1 victory.
The Flyers will be off until Friday, January 3 when they’ll host the Aurora Tigers at 7:10 pm
73s beat Sharks in final meeting of 2024
By
Greg
Coulter
Tuesday night, December 17 in Essex, the Wheatley Omstead Sharks were the latest victim of the province’s second-ranked Jr. C hockey team.
Despite a balance of play in the first period, the home team struck for two quick tallies late to grab a 2-0 lead at the intermission. Using a similar strategy and gaining a noticeable shot
advantage, they notched two more quickly midway through the second before the Sharks countered with a Stefan Jacobs marker.
A smothering Essex defensive shell in the third produced a late power play goal with the final being 5-1.
Despite the outcome, Ethan Davis did his best to keep it close while facing 35 shots. The Sharks gained 19. The Sharks close out the year with two road games and start the new year at home versus Dresden on January 3.
Flyers defenceman Ethan Tatomir (25) takes out his man while teammate Gavin Grundner (40) races for the puck in the Flyers’ zone on Thursday, December 19. SUN photo
LDSS sports teams ready for Christmas
The Leamington District Secondary School senior girls volleyball team extended their winning streak, adding two more wins for a 4-0 start.
The Lions recently played host to Walkerville. Leamington had a slow start, allowing Walkerville a quick lead.
Eventually, strong serving from the Lions secured a 25-23 win.
Spirit broken, Walkerville wilted to the Lions might, falling 25-18 and 25-21 to give Leamington a 3-0 win.
Next, on Thursday the 12th, the squad traveled to Brennan to take on the Cardinals.
The entire match was extremely slow paced, which made it hard for the girls to stay engaged.
Nevertheless, the Lions made quick work of the first two sets, emerging with scores of 25-12 and 25-13.
Unfortunately, the Cardinals proved to have one last hurrah in them and won the third set 2519.
The junior girls volleyball team replicated their seniors, taking home two wins.
Against Walkerville at
home, the girls applied pressure and never eased up. Walkerville never stood a chance against the practiced and very nearly perfected Lion serves.
This game was followed by an undeniably strong performance at Brennan. Despite the restrictions of the small gym they were in, the girls efficiently closed out the first two sets, 2517 and 25-9. However, in the third set the Cardinals had a run, resulting in a 12-3 lead.
Strong serving from Hassania Adam Yahya and reliable defense from Marissa Wiebe brought them back into the game and the Lions finished the set with a 25-16 win.
This junior team has yet to lose a set and hoped to continue this 12-set win streak on Tuesday the 17th. No details were available as of press time.
The senior boys basketball team had an up and down week.
The boys traveled to Massey where they were thoroughly dealt with. The undefeated team added the Lions to their list of conquests along with Brennan and Wind-
TEAM PHOTOS
sor Islamic.
Leamington bounced back later in the week at home against L’essor. It was a tight match, but the LD boys emerged with a 59-46 victory. They headed into their last match of the year against Essex with a 2-2 record.
Finally, the junior boys basketball team posted an unsuccessful week. First, they took on Massey.
Despite the lopsided score, 70-34, the team played as a unit, playing the most cohesive basketball of the season.
Next, they played L’Essor. The team played well defensively, especially in the second quarter where their opponents barely scored at all. However, L’Essor proved not to be the l’esser team, implementing pressure defense that left the Lions’ offence no solutions, eventually falling 75-26.
The player of the game was Poncho Heinrichs with six points, 10 rebounds and three steals. Their last game of 2024 was against Essex.
Merry Christmas sports fans!
Golden
Years mini golf report
Despite the cold snowy weather, 60 golfers came out to play mini golf at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens on Thursday, December 12. They recorded an outstanding 104 holes in one.
Leading the way with 6 aces were Laurie Hylton and Randy Nash, followed by Tom Hyatt, David Tonks and Ron Fick with 5 aces and Andy Orsini with 4. Seven players scored 3 aces: Patty Hopper, Allan Munson, Carol Hylton, Bob Springthorpe, Bill Ward, Karen Doucet and Julia Kos. Two aces were scored by Joel Bostin, Shran Collins, Tom Bondy, Barb Fick, Kathy Bechard, Erle Nash, Keith Hopper, Ray Foster, Jan Coulter, Nick Penzari, Grant Raymond, Theresa Decaluwe, Linda Chiasson, Kathy Klym, Jim James, Donna Bileti, Lois Hudvagner and Tony Hudvagner. Sin-
• Submit team photos any time during the season
• Be sure to include team name and names of players/coaches
• Jpegs are preferred
• Cell phone photos are fine, please send as large as possible (high resolution)
gle aces were scored by Lloyd Symons, Larry Hillman, Arlene Fillmore, Betty McManus, Jackie Cooper, Heather James, Carolyn Dufour, Al Wass, Bruce Cooper, Denise Munson, Jamie Arquette, Gail Turk, Zena Raymond, Moe Sweet, Armand Decaluwe and Bill Edwards.
Top scores over 18 holes were Tom Hyatt with 33 and Laurie Hylton and Randy Nash with 34, followed by Keith Hopper, Laurie Hylton and Andy Orsini with 36. Jamie Arquette scored 37, and Patty Hopper, Bob
Springthorpe and Tom Bondy 38. Seven players had 39: Tom Hyatt, Shran Collins, David Tonks, Carol Hylton, Bob Springthorpe, Bill Ward, Theresa Decaluwe, Walter Balsam and Julia Kos.
Leading the way over 36 holes with 70 was Laurie Hylton followed by Tom Hyatt with 72, Randy Nash 74, Keith Hopper 76, Bob Springthorpe 77, Jamie Arquette 78, and Tom Bondy, David Tonks and Bill Ward 79.
First place went to Team 11 (Bill Mayville, Steve Acott, Laurie Hylton, Ron Fick) with 238. Second place was Team 15 (Debbie Clinton, Walter Balsam, Randy Nash) with 241. Third place was Team 1 (Tom Hyatt, Lloyd Symons, Larry Hillman, Arlene Fillmore) with 243.
Fun, laughs and also golf will continue on Thursday, December 19 at 10:30 a.m.
WRITE-UPS
• Send in your game or tournament write-ups by Mondays at 8am
• Please limit your submissions to 150 words
• We recommend having one person responsible for write-ups throughout the season (i.e. team manager or parent)
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to Christmas.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
It’s easy for your mind to wander and get caught daydreaming, Aries. You could be feeling a little restless and in need of a change. A vacation or a night with friends may just do it.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, even if you are trying to save money, this week some situations will arise that will require you to open your wallet. This is why you have an emergency fund.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, sometimes people do not know which side of you they might encounter and might keep you at arms’ length as a result. Try to be more open this week.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Exciting things are on the horizon, Cancer. This might be something you have been anticipating for some time.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, this week you might need to stick up for someone or fight for a cause you believe in, even if it adversely affects your popularity. Stand your ground in these situations.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you might want to swallow your pride and ask for help rather than trying to do every
thing on your own. Going it alone hasn’t helped you in the past, so why should it now?
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Someone steps in and helps you along at work, Libra. Instead of feeling he or she took liberties, thank this person for giving you the extra boost you likely needed at the time.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, try to look at a situation from a new angle and then you might get some of the answers you desire this week. Is someone acting out of character?
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Learn how to deal with conflict in a productive way, Sagittarius. Then you won’t get bogged down by others when they are going head-tohead. Aries might play a role this week.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
This week you may find that all of your efforts to build up to a pinnacle moment perhaps didn’t give you the feelings you desired. Try getting back to basics.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, something that has been stretching on for quite some time finally gets finished, giving you the closure you need. Share the news slowly with others.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, if what you are doing right now is giving you gratification, you might not need to make many big changes in the weeks to come.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
DECEMBER 22 - Ralph Fiennes, Actor (62)
DECEMBER 23 Dev Hynes, Singer (39)
DECEMBER 24 - Louis Tomlinson, Singer (33)
DECEMBER 25 Sissy Spacek, Actress (75)
DECEMBER 26 - Jared Leto, Actor (53)
DECEMBER 27 Walker Hayes, Singer (45)
DECEMBER 28 - John Legend, Singer (46)
Butera navigating NCAA Divison I waters with Long Island Sharks
By Mark Ribble
Cardinal Carter graduate Milana Butera is currently in her third year at Long Island University and is enjoying a successful season playing NCAA Division I hockey.
The Sharks are currently fighting for first place in the New England Women’s Hockey Alliance with 30 points, sitting just behind first-place Sacred Heart.
Two years ago, they won their conference and were looking at this year as a building year, according to Milana, “but we’ve had a really good season so far.”
The Nutrition major has turned her passion for health and nutrition into a venture to help others, all the while patrolling the right wing for the Sharks.
Fuel The Root is her nutrition blog and she looks forward to sharing all she’s learned about nutrition with anyone who’d like to talk about it.
“I love commenting and chatting with people,” she says. “Just working with people and helping.”
Milana’s online presence helps her get her message across and she plans on pursuing a job in nutrition once she’s done school, which includes the plan for a Master’s Degree.
“There are a lot of good opportunities,” she says. “I’ve found a passion with athletes. I love the work and I’m
excited to jump into that.”
Meanwhile the former Southpoint Star and Southwest Wildcat will finish out her hockey career over the next two seasons and use her contacts there to jump into her nutritional career. She recently arrived back in Leamington to spend the holidays with her family and said she’s happy to be a smalltown girl navigating the waters of the big city with the Sharks.
NHL Alumni in Essex Jan. 12
The NHL Alumni hockey game is scheduled to take place at the Essex Centre Sports Complex on Sunday, January 12 at 2 p.m.
Former NHL stars will lace up their skates alongside law enforcement professionals, forming two formidable teams that will battle it out on the ice for a cause that goes beyond the scoreboard.
The event will feature a roster of legendary NHL Alumni, each with a storied career and a lasting
impact on the sport. Fans can expect a fast-paced, entertaining game that will not only highlight the skill of these seasoned athletes but also includes law enforcement’s brilliant play, making for a memorable experience for all ages.
The NHL Alumni Benefit Tour supports the Special Olympics and supports the Law Enforcement Torch Run’s mission: “To provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with
intellectual disabilities.” The events are the fundraising arm of Special Olympics Ontario, thus allowing staff and volunteers to focus primarily on the athletes. Doors open at 1 p.m. and the game starts at 2 p.m. at the Essex Centre Sports Complex, 60 Fairview Ave. West, Essex. Advanced tickets can be purchased at any of the six Essex County OPP Detachments, at the door or online at www.bene fithockey.com.
Milana Butera in a recent game against St. Michael’s College.
Photo couretesy of the Butera family
MILANA BUTERA
