Southpoint Sun - January 15, 2025

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local families as residents enjoyed their first measurable snowfall of the season all across the South Essex region. A crowd of about 200 gathered on the Seacliff Park hill to get some tobogganing in over the weekend. The crowded hill was slick and fast, prompting many spills before they reached the bottom. In the photo on the left, teenagers Jackson Harfmann, Tyson Bergen, Parker Colenutt and Kevin Boldt managed to make it about halfway down before their connected sleds came apart and forced them off, which just added to the fun on Saturday, January 11. On the right, the Jraige family of Leamington skipped the sledding and built a big snowman at Seacliff Park. SUN photos

Point Pelee closed for deer cull Jan. 24-31

To ensure the long-term health of Point Pelee National Park’s sensitive ecosystems, Parks Canada and Caldwell First Nation will be conducting a deer cull in the park between January 24 and January 31, inclusive.

Public safety is of the utmost importance to Parks Canada, and therefore, Point Pelee National Park will be closed to visitors during this time. The park will reopen on February 1.

Parks Canada is responsible for maintaining and restoring ecological health in national parks. Caldwell First Nation’s traditional territory encompass-

es the park. A high population (hyperabundance) of white-tailed deer in Point Pelee National Park creates a serious threat to forest and savannah health and the species that depend on these habitats.

Based on current data, it is estimated that the current deer herd population remains higher than what the ecosystem can support.

Parks Canada has been collaborating with Caldwell First Nation for several years to actively manage the deer population in order to protect the park’s sensitive ecosystems.

Hogs for Hospice winner

As the deadline for the annual Hogs for Hospice Holiday 50-50 draw got closer, the prize amount crept up that much more.

By the time the draw took place on Friday, January 10, thousands of ticket buyers were waiting with bated breath for the winning ticket to be posted.

When the dust settled, the amount was $140,980 and winning ticket number HH-31659784 was drawn.

That ticket belonged to Shawn Denkers, who received a call from Tim Iles and other Hogs Committee members Friday afternoon.

Denkers will receive his big cheque this week and a full story will appear in next week’s Southpoint Sun.

Local resident talks about life in Japanese-Canadian internment camps

By Mark Ribble

Life has been a journey for Fred Takaki, who just turned 90 on December 21. His story is one that he likes to tell — especially to young people who he feels will benefit from knowing how Canadians with Japanese heritage were treated after the onset of the Second World War.

His father was born in Japan and moved to British Columbia when he was 19, later marrying Fred’s mother, who was a Canadian-born citizen of Japanese descent.

Fred himself was born in Maple Ridge, B.C., in 1934 on a farm owned by his parents.

Life was good until December 7, 1941, when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor.

“That attack changed the lives of 22,000 people of Japanese heritage living along the lower mainland of B.C and Vancouver Island,” he said. “The beginning of World War II and the decisions of the Canadian and B.C. governments had a huge influence on our family life for the next 11 years.”

On February 25, 1942, Prime Minister William Lyon MacKenzie King an-

nounced the removal of all Japanese people living in British Columbia and with the enactment of the War Measures Act, suspended all civil liberties of those people, who were now considered enemy aliens due to the war with Japan.

Despite the head of the RCMP at the time advising the government that these people were not a threat in any way, they were still declared enemy aliens — and 70 per cent of them were Canadian-born citizens.

Fred says that all 22,000 Japanese Canadians living within 160 km of the west coast were evacuated inland.

All homes, property, farms, businesses, automobiles and belongings were seized and the families were forced from their homes. A custodian was appointed to take care of the properties until the families returned, but instead the government reportedly sold everything at very low prices.

“When my grandfather was told the government was going to seize all the property, he gave most of his farm equipment to his Caucasian neighbour,” says Fred. “He found out

TREE TRIMMING

later that the government seized all of that equipment from the neighbour.”

Everyone over the age of 16 had a curfew and men from ages 18 to 49 were removed from their homes by police and sent to the B.C. Interior to build roads and clear land for internment camps.

“My dad was in this group and we didn’t see him for months,” says Fred.

He says his uncle was in a different group of about 800 men who protested the move and were sent to prisoner of war camps in northern Ontario.

“They wore shirts with targets on the backs to make them more visible if they tried to escape,” says Fred.

In March of 1942, families left behind were given one day’s notice to vacate their homes, and were allowed to take one suitcase with a 50-pound weight limit.

“At that time, I was seven years old and had three younger brothers,” says Fred. “My grandmother also lived with us.”

The families — totalling about 8,000 people — were taken to a park in Vancouver and housed in a building formerly used for cattle, sleeping in steel bunkbeds with straw for mattresses.

After a few months, they boarded a train to the Kootenay Valley west of the Rockies, where they were housed in tents.

“I remember snow blowing in under the tent flaps,” says Fred.

Eventually, the family

of seven moved to Lemon Creek, where they stayed for about four years, in a house that was about 10’ x 24’ and operated with a wood stove and coal oil lamps. Fred attended school at Lemon Creek where they were taught by Caucasian high school and university students. He said the government opened and censored all incoming and outgoing mail at the Lemon Creek camp.

In 1945, with the war coming to a close, the families were on the move again as no Japanese people were allowed to stay in British Columbia. They chose to head to Manitoba to be near his father’s family and lived in a house with no indoor plumbing and no hydro, amid very cold winters.

“After about six years, in 1953, we moved to On-

tario, where my grandparents and a couple of uncles had settled,” said Fred.

It was then that the Takaki family came to Leamington. Fred was 18 years old and about to embark on adulthood, meeting his future wife Donna, whom he married in 1967.

Donna and Fred raised three now-grown children here, where Fred operated Oak West Auto Clinic for 29 years, starting in 1974.

In September 1988,

Prime Minister Brian Mulroney signed an acknowledgment stating that during and after the war, Canadians of Japanese ancestry suffered unprecedented actions by the government of Canada and pledged to make sure that never happened again.

This brought Fred some satisfaction but also got him thinking about something his father said to him back in the 1960s.

“One thing my dad asked me years ago was if I thought the government would ever apologize for this wrongdoing,” he says. “I told him it would probably come after many of those people had passed away. Of the 22,000 who were interned, only 14,000 lived long enough to hear the acknowledgment.”

Now retired and having just celebrated his 90th birthday, he spends some of his time speaking at churches and high schools about the internment of the Japanese Canadians during World War II and teaching people about the hardships endured by his family and many others.

Fred’s family gathered in late December 2024 to celebrate that milestone birthday, where two of his brothers and two sisters attended.

Donna and Fred Takaki, seated in the middle, are surrounded by their family at Christmas 2024. Fred turned 90 on December 21 and feels it’s important to share his story of his childhood internment by the Canadian government.

Photo submitted

Rare car on display at Canadian Transportation Museum

By Paul Forman

The Detroit Auto Show is not the only local spot displaying unique automobiles as the Canadian Transportation Museum opened up their Exit the Horse exhibit that features a one-of-a-kind 1897 Fossmobile.

Housed beside the museum’s 1893 Shamrock, Curator Karolina Brozy said, “These are legend-

ary vehicles. It’s truly an honour to have the Fossmobile here at our museum.”

A friendly debate has arisen as to which of the automobiles – the Shamrock versus the Fossmobile – should hold the title as Canada’s first registered car powered by an internal combustion engine.

The Fossmobile on dis-

play is part of a rotating exhibit from Oshawa’s Canadian Automotive Museum and is an exact replica of the original that vanished long ago. Built by George Foote Foss of Sherbrooke, Quebec, the Fossmobile had a first of its kind one-cylinder, front-mounted engine that was even able to negotiate the hills in the local area. Its two-speed

transmission came into play for not only kicking out a formidable four horsepower, but also served as a form of slowing the vehicle as it lacked brakes.

George Foss can stake a claim for being the first Canadian to receive a traffic ticket when he drove his Fossmobile on a sidewalk to avoid the snowbound streets in a Sherbrooke blizzard and could have had a very different life had he taken up an offer that was made to him by Henry Ford.

The Shamrock has

been with the Transportation Museum for decades thanks to the help of Kingsville’s Herb Giles who saved the car from the scrapyard. Built by the Mimna Brothers of Wardsville, the Shamrock allegedly made its way around town at 10 miles per hour by means of a system of belts and clutches.

A second version of the Shamrock was built in 1914. Though faster than the original, the updated vehicle lacked a proper braking system and was totalled when it hit anoth-

er car.

So, will it be the Fossmobile or the Shamrock as Canada’s first registered internal combustion automobile? The Canadian Transportation Museum will let you decide with the assistance of an informative video that can be found on their website ctmhv.com.

Those who are interested in seeing these two gems on display together have until November of this year, after which the Fossmobile motors its way to yet another museum destination.

Flanked by the 1897 Fossmobile on the left, and the 1893 Shamrock on the right, are Museum Curator Karolina Brozy, volunteer Dan MacIntyre and Museum Board Chairman Les McDonald. SUN photo by Paul Forman

Hilarity, tears and lots of ‘Canadiana’ in Halfway There

By Mark Ribble

Have you ever wondered which Canadian town is known for being exactly halfway between the equator and the North Pole?

Well, that town is Stewiake, Nova Scotia, and it provides the setting for the upcoming play at The Bank Theatre, Halfway There — opening Friday, January 17.

Best friends Vi, Mary Ellen, Rita and Janine meet daily at Janine’s place of work, where she waitresses at a local diner.

The play, written by Canadian playwright Norm Foster, provides plenty of laughs as the foursome get themselves into some hilarious conversation.

Add in a handsome new arrival in town — Dr. Sean Merritt — and you’ve got all the ingredients for some great entertainment.

Award winner Dean Valentino directs this one and stars as Sean, while Brett Hallick acts as assistant director and also plays Junior, the owner of the diner.

Valentino is grateful to be back and working with the “exceptional team” at The Bank Theatre.

“This entire show has been a pure joy to put together — seamless, fun, and rewarding,” he says. “As both director and cast member, I invite our local theatre audience to join us on a journey to Nova Scotia, where we explore the lives of four unique women navigating their friendship. Years of happiness,

sadness and everything in between are on full display in this artfully written comedy.”

The production brings lots of laughs and even a few tears — somewhat reminiscent of Steel Magnolias, and other such stories. But this one is dripping with ‘Canadiana’ from the East Coast dialogue, to the music that ushers in each scene.

The actresses, Melissa McLeod as Vi, Kristen Lamoure-Dias as Janine, Marnie Renaud-Gare as Mary Ellen and Michele Legere as Rita, all put in excellent performances, providing chuckles and tears and will surely have the audience identifying with their individual predicaments.

Valentino’s turn as the good doctor provides a down-to-earth likeable character to which the audience will immediately warm. Sean and Janine have chemistry from the first scene and spend most of the play kibitzing back and forth, much to the delight of the other three.

Performances take place January 17, 18, 24 and 25 at 7:30 pm and there are two matinees on January 19 and 26 at 2:30 pm. Box Office doors open 30 minutes before the show.

The play is sponsored by the Municipality of Leamington, Chances Gaming Lounge and Rotary Club of Leamington.

Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office 30 minutes before the show if not sold out. Tickets may also be purchased

during Box Office hours Thursday to Saturday from 11 am-1 pm or on-

line at banktheatre.com. Halfway There was first produced by the Foster

Festival in St.

in August 2016. Halfway There is staged by arrangement with Pam

Catharines

Winter, GGA, ggagency. ca.

Dean Valentino as Dr. Sean Merritt, gleefully observes the conversation from afar as the ladies go about their discussion. From left are Melissa McLeod as Vi, Marnie Renaud-Gare as Mary Ellen, Kristen Lamoure-Dias as Janine, with Michele Legere as Rita (standing). Halfway There opens Friday at The Bank Theatre. SUN photos

The ladies of Halfway There celebrate a birthday at the diner in one of the more hilarious scenes from the play.

From left are Vi (Melissa McLeod), Rita (Michele Legere), Mary Ellen (Marnie Renaud-Gare) and Janine (Kristen Lamoure-Dias).

IN WHEATLEY

A little nighttime shinny was just what was needed on the West Branch of Two Creeks behind Pier Road in Wheatley on Friday night. Local residents look forward to the first big freeze and many take turns shoveling snow when it arrives, just so families can enjoy skating — both day and night. Kneeling in front, from left, are Andie Anderson, Brooklyn Wright and Tegan Grubb. Standing in the back, from left, are Zoey Dales, Larissa Bento, Mackenzie Coulter, Avery Anderson, Ella Epplett and Mila Epplett. Photo submitted

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.

Jan. 06: 1st Pauline Mikolash and Roger Cote, 2nd Remi Fournier and Monique Sadler, 3rd Case Mulder and Agnes Fraser.

Jan. 10: 1st Kate Comiskey and Frank Duransky, 2nd Derek Parry and Dale Smith, 3rd Rowe Deans and Henry Hildebrandt.

Bridge is played on Monday and Friday at the Half Century Centre. New members are always welcome.

sizes.

Calling all young artists

Skate Wheatley is looking for young artists ages 2-18 to help them with their program cover for this year’s annual skating carnival. The group is hosting a design contest for the cover based on the theme “What does Wheatley mean to me.”

You can pick up a blank contest page at Lil Hil’s Coffee Shop, Renny’s Village Smokehouse, the Briar Patch or at Wheatley Arena during their Skate Wheatley sessions (Wednesday and Friday from 4:00 to 6:30 pm or Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm).

Once you’ve created your masterpiece, you can then drop it off at any of those same locations.

The winning design will be featured as the official cover for their carnival program, plus the artist will receive two free tickets to the big show.

Deadline is Saturday, January 25 so grab your crayons, markers and paint and get creating.

For more information, visit the Skate Wheatley Facebook page.

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opinion ~ expression ~ and other musings

Memories of winter skating and snow forts

Well, I thought maybe the lake wouldn’t freeze this year, but it went from liquid to solid pretty fast last week.

I can’t imagine it’ll get to the point to be frozen all the way across, but I know the west side is ice for as far as you can see now.

It brings back memories of ice fishing and skating on the lake as a kid.

My dad was a commercial fisherman and we had lots of fish in the freezer all year-round, along with a few muskrats, raccoons, ducks and pheasants.

So we didn’t go out ice fishing a lot, but I remember being about 10 years old and the two of us walked across the road, through the bush and out onto the lake.

It seemed like miles, but it was likely only about 200 yards.

He had tip-ups all ready to go and used a long metal spud to break through about 10 inches of ice. We fished for a while and I vaguely remember catching a few fish, but most-

ly I remember accidently stepping into the hole and going down past my knees before dad caught me.

So, with a very cold soaker, we made our way back home.

I don’t remember ever going back out with my dad after that, but I’m sure we probably did.

I do remember taking my skates on the lake a couple of times and how you’d go for what seemed like miles on a smooth surface and then suddenly hit a patch so bumpy it made your teeth chatter.

As a teenager, a few of us neighbourhood kids played hockey on the pond in front of the Franklin Home, which, thinking back, now seems like it was tiny. It probably was, but we had fun and skated a couple of winters there.

Nowadays, you’d likely get chased away for trespassing. It probably helped that my mom worked there. Maybe the staff overlooked it.

The boardwalk at Point

Pelee became the go-to place for many years, but sadly — in today’s world — it’s no longer an option. It wasn’t that long ago that Parks Canada embraced the winter skaters by offering a warm hut to change in and a periodically flooded surface.

And if you wanted to, you could skate out as far as your skates would take you, surrounded completely by cattails, long before phragmites took over the marsh.

The pickup pond hockey games we played as a kids helped us hone our skills, although it did dull our skate blades a little.

In those days — before plastic blade holders became popular — those old tube skates were pretty rugged. We often put our skates on at home and walked across the fields to the ponds.

We were always taught to walk on our tiptoes across concrete with our skates on. Now, they have skate guards for that.

1940 Ford coupe for only $20

In Janaury 1960, Kent Weale turned 16 in Port Credit (now part of Mississauga). Itching for some “wheels”, he spotted a newspaper ad for a 1940 Ford coupe. He went to see it, snapped it up for $200 and drove it home.

His dad was not impressed and told Kent to park it inside their garage so the neighbours would not have to look at it. The car was faded gray on most of the body, faded red on the roof and front fenders, the trunk lid was black, and the car had only one whitewall tire. No extra charge for the big dent in the driver’s door.

Kent put a block of wood behind the rear wheel because his parking

OLD CAR DETECTIVE

Apparently, in the old days, having a dull toe on your skate blade was no big deal.

And getting slashed in the cold air with just mittens or wool gloves on was a real treat. Inevitably, we’d get a bump or two across our knuckles as we chased pucks into the snowbanks along the edge.

Funny though, we never wore helmets and I don’t recall hitting my head more than once or twice as a kid. It’s like we instinctively knew to protect our head at all costs.

Now, our shins were a different story, because you didn’t dare wear any of your actual hockey equipment out onto the pond for fear of being called a name.

So we eagerly dug for pucks and skated like we’d never skated before, clipping the odd rock or two along the way with our skates and pushing and shoving each other across the ice surface.

We did the same at school — only without skates.

The first freeze in the school yard was much like the first snow. Kids

went crazy for those things.

RIB’S RAMBLINGS

Mark Ribble

The low areas of ground at Gore Hill, and even later at Mill Street, provided nice patches of ice to slide on and those of us who played hockey thought we were the kings of those patches.

We’d run from a distance and hit the ice, sliding in our boots and shoes all the way to the other end and then go back and do it again.

Oh sure, sometimes a kid would fall and hurt themselves, bringing the teachers out to check on everyone and warn us that it wasn’t a real safe activity.

When the snow fell, it was another reason for roughhousing (as they called it then) to occur.

Snowmen popped up in the school yard, followed by elaborate snow forts built to withstand an onslaught of icy snowballs. Kids chose sides and you tried to get on the same side as the kid who threw better than anyone else. For us, it was probably Tracy Wiper.

Sometimes, you’d take one right in the kisser, providing a little blood and fat

lip for the bus ride home. It was almost a badge of courage.

We played King of the Mountain once the drifts turned into hard piles of snow. Sometimes, those hills would be 10-12 feet high and numerous kids would climb to the top, only to be thrown off by the biggest kid who stood up top, proclaiming themselves to be the king.

It was a rite of passage to try your best to dethrone the king by throwing them off the hill.

We were savages, weren’t we?

Top that off with a game of Red Rover and our childhoods were complete.

And as the snow disappeared and the weather warmed into spring, it was nothing to jump on your buddy’s back and smash into other people doing the same — just for the fun of it. But that’s a story for a different week, once the temperatures warm up a bit.

brake did not work. Under the hood was the original flathead V8 engine and it was getting tired. Kent replaced it with a Buick V8 but there was no room for the Buick starter motor. He lived on a hill and got started each day by rolling down the hill in second gear and popping the clutch.

Perry was

So sad to hear that Richard Perry passed away of cardiac arrest on Christmas Eve, December 24, at a Los Angeles hospital. He was 82 years old and was respected and loved by many artists and recording stars from all over the world.

Born on June 18, 1942, from an early age Perry loved listening to music, especially rock and roll.

In 1955, at the age of 12, he attended the first live rock show staged at the Brooklyn Paramount Theatre by disc jockey and concert producer Alan Freed. It wasn’t long after that Perry formed his first band, and later his own doo-wop vocal group known as the Escorts.

After graduating from prep school in Brooklyn in 1960, Perry attended school only 43 miles away from Windsor where he got his degree at the University of Michigan (B of Mus ’64), then shifted briefly into song writing and acting while working in its marketing division. Perry first began collaborating with Kenny Vance.

In 1967, Richard moved to Los Angeles and joined Warner Bros. Records where he launched into his career as a producer, with early projects including Captain Beef Heart’s

prolific

debut “Domino’s Fats Is Back”.

producer FLASHBACK RADIO with Chuck Reynolds

In 1968, Perry produced “God Bless Tiny Tim”, the debut album of Reprise Records artist Tiny Tim. The album was Perry’s first, reaching # 7 on Billboard magazine’s Hot 100 chart.

After graduating from college, Perry rose through the ranks through the late 1960s and early 1970s to become a very successful and popular record producer.

In 1971 he worked with Barbra Streisand on her albums “Stoney End”, “Barbra Joan Streisand” and “Live Concert at the Forum”. Other artists he produced included Harry Nilsson, Carly Simon and Diana Ross.

By 1982, Richard had more than 12 gold records to his credit.

From 1978 to 1983 he ran his own record label, Planet Records, and scored a string of hits with the popular R&B group The Pointer Sisters. After Planet’s sale to RCA Records, Perry continued working in the music industry as an independent producer. With hit records running from the late 1960s through the 2000s, Richard continued to be successful with modern releases that included albums by Rod Stewart and Carly Simon. I also remember many of the hits that were produced by Richard Perry. He was very well liked, respected and admired by many musicians, artists and people in the broadcasting industry.

“You’re So Vain” was by far Carly Simon’s biggest hit, and while she wrote it, producer Richard Perry brought it to life. In fact, Perry’s production gave it an edge. Also, Perry worked as a producer on Ringo Starr’s “I Am the Greatest” album, helping make it his biggest album success ever. And yes, it was also the only album that all four of the Beatles performed on it in some way since they parted ways back in 1970. Paul and Linda McCartney wrote and helped perform “Six O’Clock in the Morning”. It was released on November 2, 1973. Thank you for your help Ringo and Richard Perry. And a tip of the hat to Richard Perry who is now in the Rock and Roll Heaven where they have “one helluva band”.

Proud owner Kent Weale behind the wheel of his 1940 Ford coupe.

177 attend annual Mayors’ Breakfast Trifecta

By Mark Ribble

A sold-out crowd of 177 packed the friendly confines of Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens on Friday, January 10 as the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce presented their annual Mayor’s Breakfast ‘Trifecta’.

The three area mayors — Cathy Miller, Hilda MacDonald and Dennis Rogers — all took the podium to talk about their community’s 2024 report and what to expect for 2025.

The audience repre-

sented 65 different businesses and organizations in the region, including several local dignitaries who came to hear what the mayors had to say.

Pelee Island’s Cathy Miller, now halfway through her first term as mayor, spoke about projects on the go for the island, as well as the major project just wrapped up with their partnership with North Frontenac Telecommunications, and the installation of a submarine broadband internet connection.

“By the end of 2024, we had broadband internet infrastructure complete on the island,” Miller said.

She spoke about community safety and well-being planning, an Emergency Response Plan, official plan update and expressed her gratitude to Erie Shores HealthCare.

“Erie Shores HealthCare stepped in and stepped up,” she said, about the clinic that continues to run and grow on the island.

Miller also expressed her gratitude to her municipal staff, saying the work they have accomplished starts with her staff.

Leamington Mayor — and Essex County Warden — Hilda MacDonald took her turn at the podium to talk about change.

“When is change okay?” she asked. “Is it okay in the future, or is it only for other communities?”

MacDonald talked about new projects being worked on for Leamington, and the issues facing the town as it grows.

She addressed homelessness, mental health and addiction, as well as some big capital projects on the agenda for 2025 and coming years.

The housing crisis was big on her list, saying it will take time to fix it.

“If it takes 25 years to correct the housing crisis, some of those people who will use those units aren’t even born yet,” she said.

She said Leamington has approved $54.8 million in capital projects for this year.

“Leamington is a place

where people choose to live, grow and thrive,” she added.

Mayor Dennis Rogers is also halfway through his first term at the helm in Kingsville and he started his time at the podium by saying, “We look back to learn, but we look forward to succeed.”

Roger said that Kingsville Council is working with their 2040 Vision for Kingsville — their Strategic Plan to take the town into the future.

That plan has four actionable goals: fiscally sustainable community, thriving local economy, happy healthy residents and resilient infrastructure.

Rogers talked about his stance on the vacant school properties and said it’s critical to the

town moving forward to deal with the decision whether to purchase those properties.

“Can we afford them?” he asked. “Can we afford not to?”

He said a lot of hard work has been done, but there is plenty still to do and he thanked his staff and council for their hard work.

“If we want to be successful, we need to be consistent,” he added.

Chamber Manager Wendy Parsons and Chamber President Diane Malenfant both spoke to attendees about the year 2024 and what to expect in 2025.

The breakfast was topped off with a hearty serving of Colasanti’s famous donuts.

After the Mayors’ Breakfast event on Friday, January 10, the mayors gathered with, from left, Chamber President Diane Malenfant, Assistant Consulate of Mexico Ana Mendez, MPP Trevor Jones, Pelee Island Mayor Cathy Miller, Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald, Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers, Chamber Manager Wendy Parsons. SUN photo

Half Century Centre holds annual chili cook-off

By Mark Ribble

Chili Cook-off was held on Saturday, January 11 with seven different

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19, 2025 RAY’S RIBHOUSE 17 ROBSON RD

ON 1:00 - 4:00 PM

chilis competing for the judges and about 50 attendees tasting chili and deciding on the People’s Choice award for 2025, after enjoying some games, social time and card playing for the afternoon.

Seven celebrity ladlers were on hand, including Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald, Assistant Deputy Fire Chief Derek Clark, OPP Community Liaison Stephanie Caron, Chartwell Leamington’s Nadia DiDomenico, Rosewood Erie Glen’s Melissa Loeppgy, and two ladlers from the Half Century Centre, Chris Lehn and Lorlee Cunliffe.

The chilis were supplied by Leamington Fire Services, Chartwell Leamington, Rosewood Erie Glen, Bradt’s Butcher Block, Freddy’s Restaurant, Half Century Centre and OPP.

The two judges tasked with awarding the toptwo chilis in this year’s contest were Paul Tiessen and Kyle Sayers.

Chartwell Leamington took top honours from the judges with second place going to Leamington Fire Services.

When the chili powder settled, the People’s Choice award went to Chartwell Leamington.

The family of the late Anna Hack would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to Reid Funeral Home for their professionalism, understanding and caring at this difficult time. Your staff allowed us to make the arrangements exactly how Mom would have wanted them.

Thank you to The Flower Shop at Thiessen’s for the beautiful floral arrangements and the extra touches you added, Krissy.

Thank you to St. Michael’s Church, Fr. Nelson Cabral, the Eucharistic Minister, the Church Commentator, the Choir Leader, Choir Members, Organist and Altar Servers for making the Mass of Resurrection special for Mom. Thank you to the Roma Club and their staff for a delicious luncheon and desserts. Thank you to everyone who came to the visitation, gave flowers, sent cards and text messages, wrote on the Tribute Wall and made donations in memory of Mom. Thank you for the comforting meals that were given to us. Your thoughtfulness and kindness will always be remembered.

The Hack and Mastronardi Families

The Leamington Half Century Centre’s annual

Nancy Moody receives a bowl of chili from Melissa Loeppgy. SUN photos

Judges Paul Tiessen, left, and Kyle Sayers were sequestered in a back room at the Half Century Centre so they couldn’t be swayed in their voting. Despite a couple of good-hearted attempts, nobody could keep them from naming Chili “C” as the top one. Both judges unanimously chose that chili sample as the best. It was later revealed that the chili was the one entered by Chartwell Leamington.

The celebrity ladlers prepare their stations for attendees to pick up their chili.

Dark Sky Nights coming up at Point Pelee

Point Pelee National Park (PPNP) was designated as a Dark Sky Preserve (DSP) by the Windsor Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) in 2006.

What does it mean to be a Dark Sky Preserve? It means that the park is one of the best places to explore the night sky in Canada.

A dark sky preserve is an astronomy park where the night sky glows, making millions of stars visible to the naked eye. The darkest nights are during a new moon, when the moon is not visible in the sky.

As a DSP, Point Pelee

National Park is committed to protecting the night-time environment from the effects of artificial lighting. Educating visitors about the ecological and cultural importance of dark skies are key elements of the DSP program.

Protecting the dark sky of Point Pelee will not only benefit stargazers, but wildlife as well. Many plants, animals and insects rely on the darkness of the night to forage, breed and navigate. These activities are adversely affected by light pollution.

In a DSP, artificial lighting at night is kept to a

minimum while ensuring public safety. Light fixtures must respect dark sky protocols to prevent excessive light and glare.

Dark Sky Nights at PPNP offers visitors the opportunity to explore the park after dark and experience the dark skies of the park. You can stay late and experience the park at night. Visitors can pick up a seasonal star chart at the front gate upon arrival.

The park is open until midnight on the following dates, unless otherwise stated: February 22, March 22, April 26, May 31, June 21, July 19, and August 12 and 13 (opens 6 am August 12 until closing at 10 pm August 14), September 20, October 25 and December 13.

The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) will be onsite on select dates with telescopes to facilitate star gazing. RASC attendance is weather permitting as cloudy skies inhibit night sky viewing. Cloudy skies or clear, the park will be open until 12 am unless otherwise stated.

2018 saw the 5 millionth pair of eyeglasses being given to a young girl in Mali by Mike Rochfort of CanadianVisionCare. Pictured are Swan Mary Ann Guyitt and Jason Kuli, Store Manager at Wheatley Guardian Drug Store. Submitted photo

SWANS, LIONS COLLECTING GLASSES, HEARING AIDS

Photo courtesy of Point Pelee National Park website.

Addressing homelessness in Ontario and Chatham-Kent

Recently, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) released a comprehensive study on the increasing toll of homelessness on individuals, families, communities, and governments in Ontario.

The AMO study states that “Ontario is at a tipping point in its homelessness crisis. More than 80,000 Ontarians were known to be homeless in 2024, a number that has grown by more than 25 per cent since 2022. Without significant intervention, homelessness in Ontario could double in the next

decade, and reach nearly 300,000 people in an economic downturn.”

People experiencing homelessness in Chatham-Kent has increased by 171% since 2019. In December 2019, Chatham-Kent officials knew of 84 people who were experiencing homelessness. As of January 2025, that number has grown to around 228 people.

Currently, there are between 75 and 100 people who are staying in encampments throughout the municipality. There are currently 10 known encampment locations; how-

OPP urge drivers to clear their vehicles of ice and snow

Elsa “Elsie” Lily Dueckman

July 22, 1930 – January 11, 2025

Elsa “Elsie” Lily Dueckman (nee Boschmann) passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the Leamington Mennonite Home, surrounded by family and friends.

Beloved wife of the late Helmut “Hamm” Dueckman (1998). Predeceased by her eldest son Jack (2017) and her beloved daughter Jane Johnas (2005).

Elsie is survived by her devoted son Jeff Dueckman, sonin-law Dan Johnas and daughter-in-law Patti Dueckman. She will be missed by her grandchildren Emily Culp (Dan), Matt Dueckman, Michelle Dueckman (J.T.), Karsten Johnas, Kristel Johnas (Joe), Kurt Johnas (Nikki) and two great grandsons, Jacob and Oliver Culp.

The family would like to thank all the staff at the Leamington Mennonite Home for their tremendous care shown to Elsie. The second floor staff were especially wonderful to Elsie in her last years.

Faithful was a word that captured the spirit of Elsie Dueckman. She cared for many over the years, her parents in their last days, her beloved sister through great tragedy and illness. Elsie was a person you could count on to step in and help with whatever was needed.

Elsie was faithful to God as well. Throughout her life, she turned to the Lord for wisdom and comfort. Her favourite spot in her home on Claire Street was a chair near the living room window. There she would read her bible, her devotional books, and pray for her family and friends and the day ahead. Her faith sustained her during good times and bad. She clung to God at the tragic loss of her husband, as well as the loss of her two children. She was a woman of resilient spirit who continued to look to God to sustain her until the end of her days. Her favourite Bible verse was Isaiah 26:3, KJV: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in thee.”

Visitation is at the Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell St., Leamington (519-326-2631), on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 10 a.m. until time of Funeral Service at 11 a.m., officiated by Lowell Froese. Elsie will be laid to rest next to her husband Hamm following the service, at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Leamington Mennonite Home.

Online condolences may be shared at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

ever, this number changes frequently.

Hope Haven, a non-profit drop-in centre in Chatham, focused on providing assistance to those experiencing homelessness, is seeing approximately 50 people per night for warming services and approximately 30 of them stay for the entire evening. Victoria Park Place, also in Chatham, is currently at 86% capacity (38 clients), but this also changes daily.

The waitlist for community housing is now at a record high of 1,352 households. The estimated wait time is 10 years.

There are many reasons why homelessness is increasing and why housing alone will not solve this crisis. Housing with appropriate supports is needed; however, poverty is driving new people into homelessness daily because of frozen Ontario Works rates and inadequate Ontario Disability rates.

Essex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is urging the motoring public to clear their windshields of frost, ice and snow. The ability to see clearly out of your vehicle is paramount to safe driving.

So far this winter, Essex County has not seen the snow that other parts of the province have experienced. When snow is in the forecast, motorists are reminded to adjust their driving according to the road conditions.

It is not worth leaving the snow or ice on your vehicle when a few moments and a little effort can have it cleared off. When cleaning the snow or ice from your windshield, be sure to clear the wiper blades and windshield washer nozzles so they will work when you need them.

It is illegal to drive with your windows blocked by snow or ice. Motorists can face charges for having an obstructed view. Section 74 of the Highway Traffic Act states that “No person shall drive a motor vehicle upon a highway (a) unless the windshield and the windows on either side of the

Proof of obituary to run January 15, 2025 Southpoint Sun $200 plus $26 HST = $226

compartment containing the steering wheel are in such a condition as to afford the driver a clear view to the front and side of the motor vehicle and (b) unless the rear window is in such a condition as to afford the driver a clear view to the rear of the motor vehicle.”

In other words, all the windows must be kept clear to afford the driver an unobstructed view. This includes snow and ice, along with items hanging from the rear-view mirror. This rule also applies to keeping the inside of the windows clear of fog or frost. The more you can see, the safer you will be.

Community Calendar

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15

Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca Thanks.

LEAMINGTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETS at 7:00 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Horticultural Society members will speak on “Who says you can’t garden in winter.” Come out for an evening of horticultural fun, fellowship & a chance to win a door prize. More info: Jo-Anne Smith 519-322-8809.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19

ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY WILL MEET 1:30 pm at St. Stephen's Anglican Church, 5280 Howard Ave., Oldcastle. Topic: Growing for Success. Visitors & guests welcome. Refreshments served.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 26

WINTER WONDERLAND DINNER/DANCE FEATURING ALLEN

JAMES - at Good Neighbour Club, 272 St. Paul St., Belle River. 2:00 p.m. start with dinner at 5:30. Bar available. $17 in advance or $20 at door. Non-members welcome. Reserve tickets by Jan. 23 by calling Tina (9am-3pm) at 519-728-2138. E-transfers can be sent to goodneighbour@ cogeco.net

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 519-326-3111.

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.

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 226-340-7233, 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.

IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, THAT’S YOUR BUSINESS If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous: 519-9991234.

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 519326-8629 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? AlAnon 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 WEDNESDAYS - appointments 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 519-3260612. Business calls 519-326-3821. www.pregnancycentre. net.

WESTOVER - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd. N. Tuesdays 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. 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.

KINGSVILLE MILITARY MUSEUM, is open Tuesday to Friday, 9am-1pm & 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

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.

OPP are reminding drivers that it is illegal to drive with windows blocked by snow or ice. Metro Graphics photo

Light it up blue for Alzheimer’s Awareness month

In honour of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County is asking the community to Light it Up Blue for Alzheimer Awareness Month.

Join the Alzheimer Society in “Turning Windsor-Essex Blue” this month for Alzheimer’s awareness. Leave up your blue or blue and white holiday lights, or consider purchasing a blue bulb from the local society to light up your front entrance.

Blue is the official colour for the national and local chapters of Alzheimer Societies in Canada, not to be confused with the purple colour used in American Alzheimer Associations. Blue LED bulbs are available at the local society for a donation of $15.

“We are encouraging the community to show their support for the 1 in 4 over the age of 65 affected with dementia and other related illnesses,” says Sally Bennett Olczak, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County. “It’s a fantastic way to raise awareness of the resources available at our local Society.”

Use your creativity and tag the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County in pictures to share how you have “Turned Blue”. Some supporters may decorate their windows blue, dye their hair blue or wear a blue shirt or sweater.

Businesses can also participate by putting an awareness message on their outdoor signs.

Additionally, this January the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County will be highlighting the importance of brain health and sharing resources that will empower you to protect your cognitive wellness. Small changes to your daily routine – from staying active, and enjoying a healthy diet to building social connections –can make a big difference in reducing your risk of dementia later in life.

Find practical tips and resources on how to prioritize your brain health today and explore everything from diet and physical activity ideas to the benefits of social engagement on our website at alzheimerwindsor.com

To get connected and to learn more about services and programs, contact the Alzheimer Society of Windsor and Essex County today at 519-974-2220. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are irreversible and progressive brain disorders slowly weaken memory, thinking, skills, and eventually the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. Currently, there are 25,000 new cases of Alzheimer’s diagnosed in Canada per year and that number is expected to triple by 2050.

As the number of people living with dementia increases, the cost of caregiving provided by family members and friends is expected to balloon from $12 billion by 2040. That is why building connections that matter is at the heart and soul of what they do at Alzheimer Societies across Ontario.

OPP warns ice users to exercise caution

The Ontario Provincial Police, Essex County Detachment, is warning the public to exercise extreme caution near any surfaces that may appear to be frozen.

Although temperatures have been very cold and it may appear that there is a thick layer of ice beneath you, in some instances this is not the case. Ice can be affected by many factors, including temperature, currents, age of the ice, pressure cracks and snow cover.

Although there have been no related ice rescues to speak of as of yet in Essex County, any need for rescue has the potential to put the lives of many first responders at great risk.

The advice of the OPP is very simple “No ice is safe ice.”

Venturing onto lakes, ponds or reservoirs can easily have fatal results. The temperature of the water is cold enough to take your breath away, leading people to panic and then drown.

Once submerged, your

arms and legs go numb, which makes it impossible to swim. It also leads to hypothermia due to the reduction of body heat with the possibility of heart failure. This can happen to anyone, even if you are a strong swimmer.

Those heading onto the ice are reminded to keep safety in mind at all times and be prepared.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Carry survival items like a distress signaling devices or marine flares, a waterproof flashlight or a whistle to assist in attracting attention. Also, ice picks in the event that you fall through the ice.

• Carry a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a compass.

• Bring energy bars and water that can keep you nourished.

• Carry a fully charged cell phone, stored in an inside pocket to keep it warm. Keep it turned off to conserve the battery, and only use it when necessary

• Plastic sheets, small tarpaulins or even space blankets will assist in establishing a make shift shelter.

• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

Make sure that you always prioritize your safety and remember that no ice is safe ice.

For more information on cold water and ice safety, visit lifesavingsociety.com

The OPP can be reached anywhere in the Province of Ontario at 1-888-3101122 or by calling *OPP on your mobile device.

Hydro project finishes ahead of schedule

The Ontario government and Hydro One celebrated the completion of construction on the Chatham to Lakeshore transmission line one year ahead of schedule.

This new investment, valued at an estimated $237 million, will increase the reliability and resiliency of the grid and bring 400 megawatts (MW) of clean and affordable electricity to the Windsor-Essex Region, enough energy to power the entire City of Windsor.

According to Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator, electricity demand in the Windsor-Essex region is expected to more than double over the next 20 years, being driven largely by agricultural and industrial growth. A new transmission line provides certainty for growing industries, including the new Stellantis-LGES battery plant in Windsor.

“Our government is powering the incredible growth in Southwestern Ontario with new transmission infrastructure delivered a year ahead of schedule,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Electrification. “Our focus on ensuring access

to reliable and affordable energy is key to ensuring businesses, including the new Stellantis-LGES battery plant and the growing greenhouse sector, remain competitive in the face of potential U.S. tariffs.”

munities have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.”

The new transmission line has also been a significant opportunity to build economic partnerships and advance reconciliation with First Nations communities, which is key to successful energy infrastructure development in the province.

This investment brings us closer to a prosperous future, ensuring our communities have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.”

— MPP Trevor Jones

Construction began in spring 2023 on the 49-kilometre, 230-kilovolt line between Chatham Switching Station in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and the new Lakeshore Transformer Station in the Municipality of Lakeshore. By completing the project early, Hydro One was able to reduce the cost of the project by approximately $30 million. This investment brings us closer to a prosperous future, ensuring our com-

Five local First Nations have the opportunity to invest in a 50 per cent equity stake in the transmission line component of the project once complete, through Hydro One’s Equity Partnership model.

“Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone for Chatham-Kent-Leamington and all of southwest Ontario,” said Trevor Jones, MPP Chatham-Kent-Leamington. “The new transmission line from Chatham-Kent to Lakeshore is a transformative project that will create hundreds of good-paying jobs and provide a reliable foun-

dation for clean energy development. This investment brings us closer to a prosperous future, ensuring our communities have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.”

The province is investing to build transmission infrastructure that meets domestic economic needs while supporting the government’s plan to build Fortress Am-Can, a renewed strategic alliance between Canada and the United States that will achieve Am-Can energy

security, and act as a beacon of stability, security and long-term prosperity for both countries. The Windsor-Detroit interconnection represents on average 5,000 to 7,000 MWh of flow per day. This new line will continue to play a crucial role in maintaining the existing interchange capability between Ontario and Michigan.

“This project is a shining example of what we can achieve when we collaborate and work together with Indigenous com-

munities, the province, municipalities, residents, and landowners to deliver critical electricity infrastructure projects,” said David Lebeter, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hydro One. “Electricity is the backbone of our economy. This line is the first of five new transmission lines in southwest Ontario that will support growth and security in our local supply chains and continue to make Ontario an attractive place to live and invest.”

Housing needs survey in C-K

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is inviting all residents to complete a confidential and anonymous online survey as part of a Housing Needs Assessment, which is currently underway.

This will be a comprehensive assessment of the housing needs and affordability challenges facing everyone in communities across Chatham-Kent and identify actionable strategies to address priority housing gaps.

The project will evaluate the specific needs of a variety of sub-populations such as younger adults, seniors, the unhoused, individuals requiring supportive or assisted living, and those seeking nonmarket housing solutions.

The report will help Council understand the housing landscape across Chatham-Kent and will help with planning for future housing initiatives

using recent data. The survey is available to all residents through the Let’s Talk Chatham-Kent website until January 26. The findings of the full Housing Needs Assessment will be presented to Council in midMarch 2025. For more information and to complete the survey visit their website at letstalkchatham-kent.ca/ housing-needs.

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to skating.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, charm is one of your strongest attributes. This week your magnetism is magnified and can work to your advantage. You might attract people who can help with a situation.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, it is never easy to reevaluate finances and cut back. However, this is the week when you likely have to keep your credit card in your wallet; otherwise, the bills add up.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, now is the time to turn great opportunities into big ideas. Make a plan of action and spell out the steps necessary to see an opportunity come to fruition. Ask for help, if needed.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, others are supportive of a new project you recently proposed. Maintain that support by staying focused on the tasks at hand. It’s time to move things along.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

You are open to new activities and friendships, Leo. Luckily, you may not have to work too hard to make these things happen. Bring new members into existing friend groups.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Do whatever it takes to have some quality time to yourself, Virgo. This may include taking a trip or booking a relaxing day at a nearby spa.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, allow some time to pass by before offering an assessment. Responding too quickly might produce a knee-jerk reaction that could prove regrettable down the road.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Take extra care dealing with a sticky situation at work, Scorpio. You may need to be very careful about checking for mistakes in detail-oriented tasks without stepping on any toes.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

You might need to bargain to get something you want this week, Sagittarius. Figure out what you are willing to give up and then identify a person you can work with.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Clear communication is needed right now, Capricorn; otherwise, you may fall victim to hearsay or crossed signals. Get the facts before sharing your opinion.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Start contemplating big changes pertaining to your employment situation, Aquarius. An opportunity might come along that proves too good to pass up.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

The feelings you have for someone will help you overlook any imperfections you have noticed, Pisces. Keep your relationship strong by focusing on this person’s good points.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JANUARY 12 - Zayn Malik, Singer (32)

JANUARY 13 Patrick Dempsey, Actor (59)

JANUARY 14 - LL Cool J, Rapper (57)

JANUARY 15 - Dove Cameron, Actress (29)

JANUARY 16 - Kate Moss, Model (51)

JANUARY 17 - Jim Carrey, Actor (63)

JANUARY 18 - Dave Bautista, Actor (56)

E-mail or call in your classified ad by Friday at 12:00 p.m. 194 Talbot St. E. Unit 2, Leamington ON N8H 1M2 Ph: 519-398-9098 Email: sun@southpointsun.ca We accept E-TRANSFER, DEBIT, VISA & MASTERCARD

2025 Dog Tags Available for Purchase

Dog owners in Leamington are required to register their dog(s) by purchasing a dog tag each year. Not only is it a municipal by-law, but this simple process will also help reunite you with your pet if it is lost.

Fees:

• Registration: Purchase your dog tag for $30 until March 31, 2025.

• Late Registration: Starting April 1, 2025, the fee will be $55, which includes a late penalty.

Purchase Options:

• Online: For your convenience, dog tags can be purchased online. Visit leamington.ca/dogs to register.

• In-Person: Visit the Leamington Municipal Building to purchase your tag.

• By Mail: Send your 2025 renewal form and payment to: Municipality of Leamington, 111 Erie Street North, Leamington, ON N8H 2Z9. Please note that we accept cheques, bank drafts, or money orders payable to “Municipality of Leamington.” Please note that cash payments are not accepted.

Tag Details:

• Dog tags are permanent for the life of your dog and do not display a year. Tags will only be issued for new registrations or as replacements.

Important Regulations:

• A maximum of two dogs per household is allowed unless the property is licensed as an approved dog kennel.

Penalties:

• Failure to register your dog can result in a fine of up to $500.

Need Assistance?

• For questions or help with registration, please contact a Customer Service Representative at 519-326-5761.

For more detailed information about dog registration, visit our website at leamington.ca/dogs.

•Erie Shores HealthCare ER, 194 Talbot St. W., Leamington (up to 18 years of age)

•Windsor Regional Hospital ER, 1995 Lens Ave. (up to 15 years of age)

•Windsor Regional Hospital ER,1030 Ouellette Ave. (16+ years of age)

•Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare 24 hour Community Crisis Telephone Line 519-973-4435

•Mental Health First Response Team, (16+ years of age with a serious mental illness) 240 Grand Ave. W., Suite 100, Chatham 519-436-6100 Toll Free1-866-299-7447

•Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre 24 Hour Crisis Counselling 20 Sandys St., Chatham 519-351-9145

•Chatham-Kent Victim Services 24 Third St., Chatham 519-436-6630

•Chatham-Kent Sexual Assault Crisis Centre - Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention 405 Riverview Dr., Suite 101, Chatham 519-354-8908

•Sexual Assault Crisis Line 519-253-9667

•Trans Lifeline 1-877-330-6366

•LGBT Youthline 1-800-268-9688

•Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868

SUN IS FRIDAY AT 12 NOON

BUYING

BUYING GOLD + SILVER + all coins - I buy it all$$$ - 58 years experience. Friday, Jan. 24 at Essex Railway Station, 87 Station St. Essex. Thursday, Jan. 30 at Roma Club, 19 Seacliffe Dr. E. Leamington. Friday, Jan. 31 at K of C Hall, 190 Richmond St. Amherstburg. 9 am - 3 pm. Our price is the highest no obligation free estimates - free advice - honest + dependable service. Cash paid for all gold + silver **old coins; Canada, USA, world war medals, windup watches, mintsets, old paper money. House calls available for larger amounts. Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 519-818-1805 ja8-22

WANTED TO BUY

TURN YOUR UNWANTED hunting & sporting firearms into cash. Local firearms collector looking for new, used & antique firearms. Prompt, friendly, professional service, specializing in estates, single items & collections. Fully licensed. Call 519-796-6591. ja15

HELP WANTED

PINNACLE ACRES REQUIRES Full time greenhouse general labourers. $17.20/hr 50+ hours, 7 days/wk. Must be available Saturday & Sunday. Work site: 333 County Rd 18, Leamington ON, rural setting, must have own transportation. Crop maintenance and harvesting, other duties as required. Must be able to lift a minimum of 40lbs on a repetitive basis, fast paced environment, strong work ethic, punctual, reliable. No experience or education required. Please apply via email: careers@pinnacle-acres.com

HIRING

TRADE JOURNEYPERSONS & APPRENTICES

• Plumbing; Sheet Metal & HVAC

•To provide proof of license with Skilled Trades Ontario Drop off Resume, References, Transcript of Schooling, and Drivers Abstract to:

GUALTIERI MECHANICAL

12 Seacliff Drive E., Leamington, ON N8H 2L2 Email: gm@gualtierimechanical.com

MANOR APARTMENTS

call

HOUSE CLEANINGLeamington area. Thorough & reliable. Tidying, deepcleaning, organizing, etc. Pet & house sitting also available. Call or text Linda at 519-990-0378 to book today! ja15

IRWIN PLUMBINGResidential rough-ins and repairs. Starting April 2nd 519-825-7245 will be changing to 519-324-2202. A text is preferred if capable. Call if not. ja6-tf

ZEN PETS GROOMINGCPPS Certified Groomer in Leamington. 16 years experience. For all your pet grooming needs, please call or text 519-564-9620 or message me on Facebook. COVID-19 certified & compliant. mr1-tfn

Photo courtesy of the Kingsville Archives

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.

January 12,

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

kingsvillearchives@gmail.com

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

The east side of Erie St. S. has changed quite a bit in the last 25 years as this photo from 2000 shows. The Bank of Montreal is now the Bank Theatre and to its right was Strawberries Kitchen Shop owned and operated by current Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald, and to its right was another popular venue, Chez Suzie. Two other favorite Leamington businesses also had locations just a bit further south on that side - Bateman’s Stationery and Sorrell’s Jewelers.

Clippings from the Wheatley Journal

January 1985 - Les Adams claims that the current jogging craze that is infecting the younger generation is not the only approach to physical fitness. Les may know just what he is talking about because at age 73, he looks better and is more active that men many years his junior. The Adams secret of good health is simple - walking.

On any country road within a radius of six kilometers from his home north of Wheatley, the sight of Les striding along has become a common one. He says that he walks on the average of three to six kilometers per day and the weather has little deterring effect on his schedule. On days when there is a driving rain he stays home, but other than that, he is out walking.

Ridge School was one of the first in the area

By C. Scott Holland

Designated as SS#25 Southwestern, Ridge School was Mersea Township’s first school section. It was situated just east of the Ruthven Cemetery and was erected in 1835. It was replaced by another building in 1843.

The first school on the current site dates back to 1861 and was a one-room red brick structure built in 1907 with additions made in 1917 and 1922. Architect James Carlisle Pennington was responsible for both the 1907 and 1941 schools. Pennington was born on September 1, 1865 and later graduated from Pennsylvania University. He had offices in Windsor’s Bank of Commerce building and designed several other notable Essex County buildings, including the Amherstburg Public Library, Kingsville Public School, Wyandotte Public School, Sandwich Town Hall, Windsor Collegiate, the Windsor-Essex Lake Shore train station (Windsor electric railway terminal) and the McCormack residence on Pelee Island.

In 1898, the school had 32 pupils. By the 1960s, that number had ballooned to over 100.

On April’s Fool Day, 1941 a fire gutted the original structure, and while at the time it was thought it was a prank by students, the fire — which occurred at night — was real. Efforts by the Leam-

ington and Mersea Fire Departments to save the school were in vain.

A modern four-room Ridge School was opened in 1942 and officially opened for classes on September 28, 1942.

On January 1, 1965, the former school sections were abolished and replaced by six larger Mersea school sections, one of which was Ridge School.

Many of the smaller schools like the Ridge expanded at the time to become an eight-room school with the Essex County Public School Board overseeing them, starting on January 1,1969.

The Ridge School continued serving residents of Mersea Township until 1976 when its classes were split with the overflow attending Margaret D. Bennie.

In 1977, there were 92 students in grades 5 and 6.

In its final year of 1981, the Ridge offered grades 1, 5 and 6. The Essex County Public School Board closed it in August 1981 and used it as the board’s library book depository.

Later, in the 1980s and a portion of the 1990s, the school board offered night classes there.

More recently it has been used a residence for offshore workers.

While the building still stands and is maintained, for many area residents it is a reminder of their days of getting an education and making friendships.

“Terrific blizzard,”

1917, at the Jay Wigle farm, west of Kingsville.

Ridge School, class of 1911.

Ridge School in its later years. Photos courtresy of the Scott Holland Collection

January 15, 2025

Denney hat trick paces Flyers in victory over Patriots

By C. Scott Holland

Paced by a hat trick from forward Michael Denney, the Leamington Flyers handed the Toronto Patriots a 6-3 defeat on Thursday, January 9 at home.

With the trade deadline looming on Friday January 10, the Leamington Flyers added a player to their lineup prior to Thursday’s home game against the Patriots.

The lone change for the Flyers was a trade that sent Carter Gillen to the Chatham Maroons, then adding 20-year-old forward Owen Fergusson to the lineup. Fergusson, who wears 89, had previously played for the Markham Royals.

For Leamington, it was an unusual night as they battled the Patriots for two periods before taking a solid lead and gaining a 6-3 victory in front of 619 fans.

“We played a good game tonight (Thursday). I thought we really competed for the full 60 minutes,” said head coach Dale Mitchell. “We generated lots of really good ‘grade A’ chances and it was nice to see Denney get a hat trick. Denney has been one of our most

consistent players this season and works hard every shift. Newcomer Owen Fergusson was someone we were looking at for some time and he came as advertised.

He is a small, hungry forward who works all over the ice and is hard to play against.”

Leamington notched a late first-period goal for a 1-0 lead when Ethan Walker and Owen Fergusson found Landon Bernard open at the top of the slot. Bernard, who has been out of the lineup since October 31, drilled a shot that tracked its way into the back of the net.

Two quick Patriot tallies early in the second frame put the Flyers down 2-1 and it stayed that way until later in the period.

The Flyers work ethic increased after Brody Cook was sidelined with a 10-minute misconduct at 7:53.

Gavin Grundner and Colton Smith laid the groundwork for Michael Denney who started his hat trick by stuffing in a rebound at 14:35 to knot the game.

The game’s highlight came in the final min-

ute of the middle period when Aiden Edwards sent Cade Bell down the right lane chasing after a loose puck. Bell grabbed the puck behind the Patriots defenseman as goalie Braeden Shaikh came out of his net. Shaikh fell to the ice as he watched Bell close in, and while a defenseman tried to cover the open net, Bell moved to the slot then unleashed a shot that found the open cage.

Holding a 3-2 lead heading into the third, the Flyers and Denney went to work. Gavin Grundner’s shot on net at 5:18 was halted, but Denney flipped the rebound over Shaikh who was down on the ice.

The Flyers lead shrunk to 4-3 at 11:42 when the

Patriots’ leading scorer Brice Cook notched a goal to close the gap. A two-on-one breakaway at 16:16 saw Ethan Walker slip the puck from left to right to find Brayden Degelas who made no mistake.

Down by two goals, the Patriots pulled Shaikh for an extra attacker with 3:46 left in the game, but the Flyers’ defense and backchecking by the forwards kept the Patriots scoring chance minimal. Gavin Grundner completed a hat trick of assists on the night when he sent Colton Smith down the ice towards an open net, but unselfishly Smith slid the puck to Denney who completed his hat trick. Flyers’ starting goalie Marcus Vandenberg

stopped 25 of 28 shots, while Shaikh halted 29 of 34.

On Saturday night the Flyers traveled to Mississauga and drubbed the Chargers 9-2 with everybody in the lineup except three gaining at least one point. Eight different Flyers ripped goals in the contest which featured plenty of bodychecking in a fast-paced game. The Flyers’ speed and puck possession were key elements in the win.

The Chargers spent very little time in the Flyers’ end zone and starting goalie Vandenberg stopped 12 of 14 shots as he notched his league-leading 21st victory.

The Flyers hold a four-point lead on sec-

ond-place Collingwood and a one-point lead over Trenton for first overall in the OJHL.

Saturday night’s scoring came from Degelas who netted two, while singles were fired by Gavin Grundner, Ethan Walker, Landon Bernard, Adrian Bosev, Griffin Grundner, Tyler McGuire and Anthony Ciaramitaro. Degelas ended the night with four points and Colton Smith had three helpers. This weekend the Flyers will play three home games as they host Burlington on Thursday, January 16 at 7:10 pm, Collingwood on Saturday, January 18 at 7:10 pm and Caledon on Sunday, January 19 at 6:10 pm.

Flyers’ defenceman Owen MacDonald is thrown off balance while teammate Michael Denney (22) starts to turn and Colton Smith (55) shoots at Patriots goalie Braeden Shaikh. Scott Holland photo

WINS REDEMPTION TOURNAMENT

After a less than successful Canadian national 65+ competition last fall, The Point hockey club looked to redeem their tarnished pride over the weekend in the KW Saints Redemption hockey tournament. Featuring a group of many lifetime friendships of local players, they headed to Kitchener. The six-team round robin format saw the lads skate to victories of 2-1, 8-1 and 4-1, setting the stage for the final against Kemptville, the first game opponent. With the game deadlocked 3-3 after regulation, a five-minute 3-on-3 overtime solved nothing. A first to score in the shootout saw the Point take home the crown. The team was backstopped by goaltender Wayne Gillett’s rock-solid effort (except for one goal) as he stoned all shooters in the final shootout round. The Point Hockey Club, in front, left to right: Greg Coulter, Dan Newman, Wayne Gillett, Clair Malott, Wally McFadden. In back: Bill Latimar, Rick Stickney, Bruce Scott, Bill Cummings, Bob Clifford, Brian Roach, Bob Newman, Dave McDonnell. Absent from photo: Tim Schiefer, Ken Cobby, Mark Matheson, Dennis Koestler. Photo submitted

Blazers start playoffs on right foot

Golden Years mini golf report

There were 61 golfers who played 36 holes of mini golf at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens on Thursday, January 9. They recorded an outstanding 92 holes in one. Leading the way with five aces were Bill Ward and Bill Gough, followed by Shran Collins, Patty Hopper, Randy Nash, Archie, Allan Munson, Monique Benfield, Arlene Fillmore, Joanne Law, Greg Broome, Cherryll Gay, Jackie Cooper and Mike Mousseau three aces. Two aces: Theresa Decaluwe, MaryAnn Sherman, Tom Hyatt, Ray Foster, Zena Raymond, Nick Penzari, Al Wass, Grant Raymond, Kathy Klym, Armand Decaluwe, Bob Springthorpe, Andre Lalonde, Bill Taylor, Donna Bileti, Denise Munson and Lois Hudvagner. One ace: Bill Mayville, Walter Balsam, Linda Lavender, Lloyd Symons, Jayne Crebolder, Rosemary Heisler, Tom Bondy, Kathy Bechard, Linda Chiasson, Bill Edwards, Tony Hudvagner, Larry Hillman, Lorraine Mousseau and Charlene Bagshaw.

Top score over 18 holes was Bill Ward with an outstanding 31, followed by Shran Collins, Theresa Decaluwe and MaryAnn Sherman with 36. Nick Penzari and Andy Orsini scored 37, Bill Ward, Bill Gough, Patty Hopper and Tom Hyatt 38, Bill Gough, Randy Nash, Archie, Arlene Fillmore, Theresa Decaluwe, Tom Hyatt, Ray Foster, Andy Orsini and Debbie Clinton 39. Leading the way over 36 holes with 69 was Bill Ward, followed by Theresa Decaluwe with 75 and Andy Orsini with 76, Bill Gough, MaryAnn Sherman and Tom Hyatt with 77, and Shran Collins, Patty Hopper and Ray Foster with 79

First place went to Team 3 (Tom Hyatt, Al Wass, Bill Taylor, Mary Binder, Debbie Clinton) with 328. Second place was Team 13 (Shran Collins, Arlene Fillmore, Lloyd Symons, Mike Binder) with 332. Third place was Team 1 (Randy Nash, Nick Penzari, Bill Mayville, Penny McMurphy) with 332.

Fun, laughs and also golf will continue on Thursday, January 16 at 10:30 a.m.

Wheatley Legion news

The Talbot Trail Blazers U15 hockey team began their Bluewater League round robin playoffs by hosting the Tecumseh Eagles in Essex on Saturday night, January 11, and taking a decisive victory.

The Blazers scored early and often in this contest as they controlled the play from start to finish.

Lucas O’Neil opened the scoring 1:27 into the game in what was his first of two tallies. Nicholas Magri, AJ Youssef, Nash Fuerth, Austin Goudie, Brayden Foster and Nathan Mariuz all chipped in scoring one apiece en route to an 8-1 drubbing of the Eagles. Kevin Ondic was nearly perfect as he recorded the win in net, aiding his team to their first post season win.

There will be a zoning amendment coming before Chatham-Kent Municipal Council on January 27 regarding the new Wheatley Legion building. Currently, the site is unable to meet the off-street parking requirement of the Zoning By-Law. The application proposes to exempt the development from off-street parking requirements and set the required parking at the 20 onsite spaces being proposed. President Dick Whittle says things are moving along and he hopes to have a further progress update in the near future.

Ontario Command is increasing the per capita tax and typically that means an increase in membership dues. After crunching the numbers, Branch 324 executive has voted to absorb the Command increase and keep dues at $45.

If you haven’t paid your 2025 dues yet, please do so to keep your membership in good standing. Sports players are ineligible to play if their dues are not paid. Dues can be paid by mailing a cheque to Wheatley Legion Br. 324, Box 729, Wheatley ON, N0P 2P0, online at Legion. ca or by contacting Membership Chair Laura Simpson at 519-560-1341 and she’ll arrange to meet up with you.

The Meat Draws have started up again. Winners on January 11 were Chris Resendes, Darlene Dundas, John Turner, Sherri Tilden, Donna Corlett, Kay Sutherland, Jason Lamb, Diane Clark, Cindy Stevenson, Megan Durocher and Michelle Manery. Julie Reid won the L.A. 50/50 draw.

Meat Draws will be held every Saturday at Joe’s Bar (next door to Lucky Wok). Ticket sales start at 3 p.m. and the draws begin at 3:30. Everyone welcome. Although it was a cold and snowy night, 17 players enjoyed fun darts January 10 at Kingsville Legion. Recording six wins were Amy Kendall, John Balkwill and Dennis Kiss. Five wins: Laura Smith, Bonnie Evoy and Neil Handspiker. Four wins: JoAnne Smith, Larry Evoy and Jim McClellan. Three wins: Lynn Scott, Karl Bartelt and Dave Leili. Two wins: Virginia Bartelt, Cookie Klooster and Rob Baker. One win: Deb Seili and Tim Butt. Lady doublers were Amy, Laura (3) and Deb. Deb doubled out on Jim, so Jim walked the walk of shame. Anyone interested in playing Fun Darts is welcome to come on out to Kingsville Legion on Friday nights and organizers will be happy to put you on a team. It is luck of the draw and always makes for a fun night out. Don’t have any darts? No worries – a set will be found for you to borrow. The next Fun Darts night is Friday, January 17. Sign-up is at 7 p.m. and play begins at 7:15.

WIN CURLING TITLE

Leamington’s Dave and Cathy Moncur teamed up again with Jamie and Paula Arnold of Waterloo to defend their championship at the Westmount Golf and Country Club Mixed Bonspiel January 10 and 11. The foursome came out on top of the 24-team field for the second year in a row, winning all four games and finishing with an 11-1 win in the final. From left to right are Dave Moncur, Cathy Moncur, Jamie Arnold and Paula Arnold. Their next competition together will be in Paris, France, in October. Photo submitted

Kingsville Friendly Club

Kingsville Friendly Club president Jean Kuipers welcomed 46 out to play cards at the Unico Centre on Friday, January 10, welcoming Mary DeGoey and Ida Smith. Bridge scores: Alta Van Vliet 3240, Corinne Ingall 3070, Kim Hamm 2670. Euchre: Brenda Anger 95, John Gerhardt and Nancy Taylor tied with 82, and Carrie Schultz and Ken Martinuik tied with 80. Most lone hands were won by Ken Martinuik, Dave Patterson, Robert

Boose and Debbie Everaert with four each. Pepper scores: Bob Bell and Maggie Hansen tied with 231, Rose Foldesi 220, Sue Girardin and Winnie Moore tied with

Sharks split two home games

By Greg Coulter

As the regular season winds down, the Wheatley Omstead Sharks continue to keep pace in their dogfight for third place with three other teams.

205. Most peppers was by Winnie Moore with 6. Delicious snacks were supplied by Gillian Pinkney and Mac Stanley from the Bridge group.

Provincial Junior Hockey League West Stobbs Standings

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Playing Dresden for the final time this season, the Sharks, in a seesaw battle, secured two important points at home. Jumping to a two-goal lead by tallies from Kyle Bleau and Aidan Hill, they quickly surrendered two power play markers to knot the game. Vito Alfano then notched the game winner at the 15-minute mark of the first with a short-handed snipe.

Both teams relied solely on their goalies in a wide open second period with only Josh Chauvin crashing the net in the final minute to increase the narrow lead.

The Sharks settled

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down defensively in the third and were rewarded with a point blast marker by Captain Jaydon Ferguson. Overall, the Sharks dominated the shot counter with a 46-28 advantage, earning Jaxon Drysdale the victory.

With a crowd of over 400 on Saturday night’s alumni get-together, the Sharks battled league-leader Essex through two scoreless periods but surrendered the game’s only tally at the five-minute mark.

The Sharks skated and matched their opponents stride for stride and shot for shot throughout, with Ethan Handley taking the undeserved loss.

Sharks’ coaching staff were encouraged with the defensive efforts of their last four periods as three critical matches are coming up. A Wednesday night home ice matchup on the 15th at 7:30 sees Blenheim in town, followed by Saturday in Mooretown and 24 hours later a trip to Blenheim.

SUSIE

Sharks’ power forward Josh Chauvin drives the high post while overpowering both the defenceman and the outstretched right pad of the goaltender to calmly slip in his 17th goal of the season in a 5-2 victory. The Sharks are poised to have four 20-goal scorers as the regular season prepares them for the upcoming playoffs.

SUN photo by Greg Coulter

Thank You!

We are very grateful to the many donors that continue to support our Leamington Mennonite Home. We extend a heartfelt thank you to the following individuals and businesses who donated over $323,000 which will be used to purchase medical equipment, improve facilities, and continue Pickwick Apartment renovations which provides safe and secure housing for lower income seniors.

BRAD & LYNN BAILEY

STANLEY BALSAM

STEVE BALSAM

THE LATE WILF BARNET

JANET BARRACO

TERRY & ROSEMARY BEE

DAVID & LINDA BELCH

KATHARINA BERG

MIKE & MARY BINDER

SUSAN BOON

DAVID & JOANNE BROWN

KATHERINE BROWN

WALTER & ELFRIEDA BROWN

THE CABINET MILL

ELIZABETH CAMPBELL

LORRAINE CHAUVIN

CIELO VISTA FARMS INC

CLEMENT FAMILY

ARNOLD P. CORNIES

BOB & LOUISE CORNIES

DAVID CORNIES

JIM CORNIES

PHIL CORNIES

ANGELA CRITCHLOW

LOUISE DAVIDSON

ELFREEDA DERKSEN

ROBERT & JANET DICK

DENNIS & VICKI DICK

ELIZABETH DICK

ERNA DICK

JACOB AND HELENE DICK

AMES A. DICK

DENNIS & KAREN DRIEDGER

FRED & LINDA DRIEDGER

LEONARD W. DRIEDGER

LINDA DRIEDGER

PAULA DRIEDGER

MARVIN & AUDREY DUECK

HENRY & SANDRA DYCK

JAKE DYCK

JIM & LINDA DYCK

ENERGY SOURCE CANADA

DENNIS & HELGA ENNS

HERB & MARYLOU ENNS

JOHN ENNS

KEN & RITA ENNS

WALTER ENNS

MARIE EPP

RON & KATHY EPP

ERIE SAND & GRAVEL

LORETTA FAST

CODY FENWICK

ANN FISCHER

DON & BRENDA FISCHER

LEN & JANET FLAMING

JANICE FOUNK

FOUR E FARMS INC.

RONALD & DIANE FROESE

GABRIELE CARPET CENTRE

REINER & DOREEN GLATZEDER

LYDIA GRUBER

GUALTIERI MECHANICAL

H & H WOOD PRODUCTS

H. TIESSEN FISHERIES

JOHN & ANNA HERHALT

GEORGE HILDEBRANDT

HENRY HILDEBRANDT

DR. RANDY W. HOLLOWAY

HUB INTERNATIONAL

JOAN HUTTON

MIKE & BONNIE JADISCHKE

ROBERT & MARY JANZEN

DEBBIE JANZEN

the late IRMA JANZEN

JAKOB JANZEN

MARTHA JANZEN

JDC.CA INC.

NATHAN JOHNSTON

ROGER & RACHAEL KAUFFMANN

KINDRED CREDIT UNION

JANE KLASSEN

JIMMY KLASSEN

KRYSANNE C KLASSEN

MEGAN KLASSEN

KONRAD FARMS INC.

BEN & ARLENE KONRAD

EDGAR & MARY-ANNE KONRAD

EDNA KONRAD

JEFF & STACEY KONRAD

JIM & MARIEL KONRAD

JUDY KOOP

INGRID KOSLOWSKY

WILLIAM J KOSOVITCH

PHIL & MARLENE KROEKER

ANITA & ARTHUR KRUEGER

KEN & SHELLEY KRUEGER

SONJA KULI

TIM & JAYNE LATAM

LEAMINGTON GLASS

LEAMINGTON SANITATION

ROBERT & LAURIE LEE

JACOB V. & ELIZABETH LEHN

JAKE LEHN

DONAVAN LENABET

RANDY & FRIEDA LEPP

ANGELO & ROSELLA LIGORI

ANTONIA LIGORI

TOM & ANITA MAGRI

MYRANDA MAK

JOHN & MARGARET MARCOVECCHIO

VIC & CAROL MARTENS

CARMELINA & TONY MASTRODICASA

MASTRONARDI PRODUCE

DEANNA MASTRONARDI

J. JOSEPH & BARBARA MAXWELL

DAVID MCMICHAEL

MIKE TEMPICH AND FAMILY

CHARLOTTE MURRAY

MARGARET ORTON

HENRY & DARLENE PENNER

JOHN & DIANE PENNER

JOHN & LINDA PENNER

PETE & NANCY PENNER

WERNER ERICH PENNER

ED & SANDRA PETRYSCHUK

JUNE PROBERT-LAMARCH

R.A. CRITCHLOW REALTY

JUTTA RAHN

RON & MARLENE REGEHR

REID FUNERAL HOME LTD

REMPEL FARMS WHEATLEY

HELENA REMPEL

PAUL REMPEL

NEIL & LISA SAWATZKY

PETER SAWATZKY

RONALD SAWATZKY

ED & MARYANN SCHACHOWSKOY

ERNA SCHACHOWSKOY

PETER & LINDA SCHERER

GERALDINE SCOTT

DORIS SELVAGGI

WALLY & DEBBIE SIMPSON

SPEEDPRINT INC.

ERNIE & CAROL TAVES

THIESSEN ORCHARDS

THE FLOWER SHOPPE AT THIESSEN’S GLORIA THIESSEN

THOMSON GUARDIAN PHARMACY

TINA QUIRING

BARB TIESSEN

BERTHA TIESSEN

BOB & LYNDA TIESSEN

ERWIN & RUTH TIESSEN

CHRISTINE & JIM TIESSEN

PAUL & LISA TIESSEN

MARTIN & SUZANNE TIESSEN

ROBERT J. & ANITA TIESSEN

ROGER & LAURA TIESSEN

TRI-B-ACRES INC.

UE ENCLOSURES

UNI-FAB

UNIFOR LOCAL 2458

VINE FRESH ACRES LTD

HELEN WARKENTIN

IRMA WARKENTIN

PAUL & RUTH WARKENTIN

DARCY & DEBBIE WARREN

JASON WASCHER

MARK & ANGELA WEIL

WELLNESS & MOBILITY

DENNIS WIEBE

JIM & LORNA WIEBE

JAKE & LOUISE WIENS

JOHN & EVELYN WOELK

GLEN YOUNG