The Leamington 150 celebration continues this weekend with a Music On The 42 free concert at Seacliff Park’s Sunset Amphitheatre.
Leamington’s own Jody Raffoul will present an original acoustic performance on the stage on Saturday, September 14, in a concert presented by the Municipality of Leamington and The Bank Theatre.
Local singer-songwriter Andrew Taves takes the stage as the opening act at 7 pm.
The event is open to everyone. Just bring a lawn chair or blanket and settle in for an unforgettable evening of music under the stars.
The LTGO transit will run until 11 pm to accommodate concert-goers for transportation.
SUN photo by Deanna Bertrand
JODY RAFFOUL
Mosaic reveal held at library
The Leamington 150 Anniversary Committee, in partnership with Greater Essex ETFO Local, Greater Essex County Occasional Teachers Local, UE Enclosures, and Heather and Justin Latam, recently held an exciting month-long event to celebrate Leamington’s 150th anniversary.
Supported by the Municipality of Leamington, an interactive multi-generational Lego mosaic began on August 5 and wrapped up Thursday, September 5 at the Leamington Library.
The project saw dozens of children and adults at-
tend the library to place a piece on the mosaic wall.
Designed by Jim Wiebe of Aylmer, Ontario, the mosaic offered both young and young-at-heart participants the chance to place LEGO pieces into a pre-designed form.
Jim, known for his intricate LEGO designs, created the frame and kits based on a selected image, which remained a secret until the last piece was placed by Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald on September 5.
Participants placed 431 Lego plates and 27,648
Lego pieces to assemble the impressive 5-footwide by 5-foot-high image, which was revealed to be Leamington’s famous tomato.
“We wanted to create something that brings together our community in a fun and engaging way, something that all ages can enjoy and contribute to,” said Mayor MacDonald. “This mosaic project perfectly embodies our spirit and unity as a community.”
Plans are underway to find a permanent location for the finished mosaic.
Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald places the final piece into the Leamington 150 Lego Mosaic at the Leamington Library on Thursday, September 5.
Sponsor groups and committee members gathered with municipal officials to see the final pieces placed into the Leamington 150 Lego Mosaic on September 5. From left in front, are Leamington Chamber of Commerce Manager Wendy Parsons, First Vice President Kim Blommaert from the Greater Essex Occasional Teachers, ETFO, Leamington Councillor (and sponsor) Heather Latam, Leamington 150 co-chair Michelle Fortier, Sarah Walker from UE Enclosures, President Mario Spagnuolo from Greater Teachers, ETFO, Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald. In back are local musician (and sponsor) Justin Latam and Leamington 150 chair John Moran. SUN photos
Thiessen Orchards launches new children’s book
By Deanna Bertrand
A nearly five-decade old tradition continued with a busy opening weekend at Thiessen Orchards this past weekend.
In addition to the usual attractions, new this year was the launch of a children’s book titled “Alex and Mia’s Day at Thiessen Orchards”.
The book was written by Karmen and Vanessa Greene of Windsor, illustrated by Lana Warwick of Essex, and published by Southpoint Publishing, the parent company of the Southpoint Sun newspaper.
Thiessen Orchards owners Andrew and Krissy Thiessen are excited to have worked with local talent to bring this book to life.
“This is something we’ve wanted to do for a long time and it’s so great to finally see it in print,” Krissy said. “We’re grateful to the local talent who brought our vision to life and we are excited that kids can now take their
memories of the farm home with them.”
The book is dedicated to Gloria and the late Peter Thiessen, who started Thiessen Orchards over five decades ago. Peter was the inspiration for “Farmer Pete”, the beloved mascot for the farm.
“We’re so happy this book will honour Andrew’s parents, Gloria and Peter Thiessen, and the legacy they’ve built,” Krissy said.
The orchard is open seven days a week – September through October – for pick your own apples, pumpkins, and other family fun activities such as corn mazes, children’s play areas, apple treats, weekend live entertainment and a haunted barn experience.
“It has been a wonderful opening weekend,” Krissy said at the orchard Sunday afternoon. “We have a fantastic crop this year with lots of apples. Our Honey Crisp are even ready early this year.”
SUN photos by Deanna Bertrand
Two-year-old Michael Brennan takes a bite out of a big juicy apple at the farm on Sunday afternoon.
The new Thiessen Orchards book titled “Alex and Mia’s Day at Thiessen Orchards”.
Wheatley work underway downtown
GOLD SILVER
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has provided a media update on the demolition and investigation into the blast zone in downtown Wheatley.
Demolition has recently concluded in downtown Wheatley and work is now beginning on the final phase of investigation to determine if there are any additional hazardous wells on the site. This work began September 3 and could continue for several weeks.
Contractors and municipal staff have begun mobilizing equipment to
the site, headquartered at 17 Elm Street, and into the work zone. Mobilization work is anticipated to take several days, pending modifications to the work plan.
The tentative work schedule for this week is posted on the Let’s Talk Chatham-Kent Wheatley Updates webpage, located at www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/wheatley-updates.
As part of the final phase investigation, equipment has been staging at the
work site throughout the week.
This equipment requires additional space for storage, and as a result, the roadway and sidewalk between 22 Elm Street and the corner of Elm and Erie Streets has been added to the work site and will be closed to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic until the work has been completed.
This closure is a temporary necessity, and the roadway and sidewalk will reopen once the investigation work is com-
pleted. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Residents are encouraged to check back often as information on progress and future schedules will be posted here. Fire and emergency response crews are connected to the project team and will respond if required according to the emergency response plan. Residents are reminded to call 911 immediately if they smell gas.
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Kristin Swayze - DD
Machinery gets to work in Wheatley last week. Greg Coulter photo
opinion ~ expression ~ and other musings
Remembering the day we all stood still
Most of us will remember that day for the rest of our lives: September 11, 2001.
Where you were when you heard the news, who you were with and even what you did the rest of that day.
It seems so long ago, but then again, it doesn’t when you think of the big picture.
We watched it happen live at work, as a co-worker brought the CNN broadcast up on his computer.
That was just after the first tower was hit. We actually saw the second plane go through the background of the screen and hit the second tower.
The sinking feeling that hundreds of people would be instantly killed
1932 Plymouth “old school” street rod
Editor’s note:
Bill Sherk’s column last week had the wrong copy inserted into the text portion, so we will run it again thise week with the photo that was supposed to go with it. We apologize for any confusion.
With the recent passing of Drew Sproat of Emeryville, my thoughts go back to the 1932 Plymouth he bought years ago: “good from far but far from good” so he gave it a complete rebuild.
He installed a 318 Chrysler V8 with a 727 Torque-Flite automatic
feeding power to a Dana rear end from a Chrysler Fifth Avenue. Drew stayed with Mopar equipment except for its Mustang II front end. His ’32 Plymouth PB sedan was amazingly original. Although the fabric insert roof was replaced with a steel one, the body and all four fenders are from the original car and the gray cloth interior is close to original. And no power windows, in keeping with the “old school” look. The air conditioning is “4 over 60”
THE OLD CAR DETECTIVE
Bill Sherk
which Drew described as “four windows down at 60 miles an hour.”
In 2005, Drew displayed his street rod at the Detroit Autorama and won second place in the Street Sedan Class. The custom finish on the car is very eye-catching and based on a 1997 Cadillac “forest pearl metallic.” Dazzling!
hit us like a ton of bricks. Little did we know that the worst was yet to come and instead of hundreds, it would be thousands.
As I sit here watching the fog descend over Essex County, I can look up in the sky and see planes flying out of Metro Airport — something I couldn’t do on September 11, 2001 after the highjackings.
Within hours, the sky was completely clear of aircraft and that was an eerie feeling.
The world really did seem to stand still.
Borders were closed or so clogged, you couldn’t get through.
As we all awaited the fate of the fourth jetliner, we held our collective breaths, hoping for a good outcome. When it crashed in Pennsylvania, we knew life was changed forever.
That instant news was something fairly new for us. I think the fascination with getting news
as it happened came with the OJ Simpson trial, or maybe even before that, going back to the Rodney King incident.
Mark Ribble
But there was no news more instant than the 9-11 attacks and those of us who were around to see them, will hopefully never see anything like that again.
My mother was in the hospital when that happened and when I arrived in her room later that day, she had been watching it on television and she wondered what had become of the world. She passed away two weeks later, so she never got to know the world we live in today, and how it was altered on that day.
It is indeed a new world, where keyboard warriors have stepped out from behind their computers and thrown real-life shade at people
they’ve never met.
It’s a time when everyone is in a hurry.
Cars pass you on the highway, only to be sitting at the next light when you arrive there beside them.
The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is on its way, whether we like or not, which makes people even crankier and in more of a hurry.
And those summer days?
Don’t let this week’s warm temperatures fool you. Summer’s gone and fall is on the horizon.
Take time to be thankful long before Thanksgiving hits. Watch the leaves change and enjoy those sunsets.
Because soon, they’ll be covered in snow.
Remembering a great instrumental
It’s hard to believe it’s been over 54 years since Mason Williams’ only hit song, “Classical Gas,” topped the ‘Cashbox 100 Chart” and reached #2 on the “Billboard Hot 100” Chart on August 3.
I still remember hearing that instrumental song in the summer of 1968 on 1050 Chum. It was a “wow” song to me.
In fact, it was a great summer for other “wow” instrumental hits like “Hawaii Five-O” by the Ventures and “Grazing in The Grass” by Hugh Masekela.
I also remember seeing and hearing “Classical Gas” back then on Sunday nights during “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour”. What a great instrumental song it was. Funny though, that I haven’t heard or thought of that tune for quite a long time. But, for an instrumental song, it’s surely one of the all-time best to be heard or played on radio or television and now brings back great memories today.
It is probably still being aired as retro reruns in
certain markets and to give credit where credit’s due, a tip of the hat to Leamington Historian, Scott Holland, for bringing it to my attention.
He feels “it’s in the top five of the best instrumentals ever composed”.
I wouldn’t argue with that. It’s a classic hit for sure and truly one of my favourites, too, as it is for Scott, who generously shared some of his notes regarding Mason Williams.
By the way, Williams just celebrated his 86th Birthday three weeks ago on August 24th and is still out there playing many of his wonderful hits from the past. But here’s something that many people don’t know.
When Williams first wrote the song, he originally titled it “Classical Gasoline”.
However, a copyist mangled and shortened the second half of the title to “Gas”.
Fortunately, I’m sure,
that worked out better in the long run for everyone.
Classical Gas was a great instrumental hit and went on to win three Grammy Awards for Mason Williams. Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI) also awarded Williams with a special Citation of Achievement.
The song has logged over five million broadcast performances to become BMI’s all-time number-one instrumental composition for radio air play.
As a side note on “Classical Gas”, Mason Williams’ video for the song (as used by the Smother Brothers Show) shows him playing all the instruments.
In fact, that is exactly what happened. Probably another first back then.
’32 Plymouth a blast from the past!
Leamington businesses need to apply for recycling
On behalf of the Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority (EWSWA), the Municipality of Leamington is reminding local businesses and not-for-profit organizations of important updates regarding recycling collection services.
The EWSWA has always managed recycling collection in the region, and the Municipality of Leamington does not oversee the recycling collection contract.
As of August 28, 2024, residential recycling collection in the region transitioned to a new producer responsibility model as a result of the Waste-Free Ontario Act.
Under this new system, Circular Materials has taken over the management of residential recycling, with GFL serving as the collection contractor. However, this transition only applies to residential and multi-residential recycling collection.
For businesses and not-for-profit organizations, recycling collection services are not covered under the new producer responsibility system.
To continue offering recycling collection to non-eligible sources (NES), the EWSWA has implemented a specialized program.
Businesses and not-for-profit organizations were required to register for the NES Recycling Program to ensure continued recycling services.
EWSWA has been communicating via email with registered businesses and not-for-profit organizations regarding the new NES Recycling Program and changes to their curbside collection services. New program information, including schedule changes, was sent by EWSWA via email in late August.
Leamington businesses and not-for-profit organizations are encouraged to check their emails regularly for updates from EWSWA to stay informed of any changes.
If you did not register for the NES Recycling Program or have questions or concerns regarding recycling collection for businesses and not-for-profit organizations, please contact EWSWA directly at 1-800-563-3377 or via email at nes@ewswa.org
Thank you!
The family and friends of Robert “Bob” Ware are mourning his passing and celebrating the life that he lived. He was loved by many. We are so very grateful for all the heartfelt tributes, condolences and prayers that we have received. Our journey without him has just begun. All the gifts of food, flowers, cards, visits and messages and all the help we received during this difficult time are appreciated more than any words can express. We would like to extend sincere appreciation for the care he received from Saint Clair Home and Community Care Support Services, Dr. Hill, Dr. Murthy, Dr. Bagga, and all the doctors, nurses and paramedics who helped make his last days more comfortable. Thank you to his niece, Jenny, for the beautiful eulogy. Thank you to Reid Funeral Home for their compassion during this time. If we are forgetting anyone that has helped please know we appreciate your gesturesit’s been overwhelming. He will be truly missed by many. We miss you like crazy and wish you were still here but we are all OK knowing that you aren’t suffering anymore. Rest Easy and know that we will think of you every minute of every day.
We love you forever, Marlene, Rhonda, John and Taylor Niefer (Tino), Cindy Ware, Bob, Ashlee, Kayleigh and Ellee Ware, Brad, Caitlin, Olivia Ware, and his new grandson that is coming soon. We know he’s heartbroken he isn’t here for that.
If you require help with placing an announcement in the Southpoint Sun, please call our office at 519-398-9098 or email us at sun@southpointsun.ca
Thiessen family celebrates 100 years in Canada
Gerhard and Katharina Thiessen left their home and wealth in Ukraine in 1924, with their one-yearold daughter in tow, and came to Canada, escaping an increasingly difficult political climate.
Their journey out of Ukraine began by wagon train, followed by locomotive and then they boarded the ship Minnedosa, bound for Canada, landing in their original destination of Kitchener-Waterloo on July 19, 2024.
The original plan was to settle in western Canada, but instead, Gerhard took an opportunity to move to Pelee Island in 1925 to work a farm on shares.
In 1942, the couple decided to move to the mainland, where Gerhard found an opportunity for
share cropping, until he bought his own farm on the eighth concession in 1950 — at the age of 56.
Gerhard and Katharina’s 10 children eventually added 19 grandchildren to the mix, and along came 40 great-grandchildren, 44 great-great-grandchildren and three great-greatgreat grandchildren. That made for a total of 116 descendants — 155 with spouses.
“The question became how should we remember and celebrate our grandparents and the life we have enjoyed because of their decisions, sacrifice, perseverance, faith and prayers,” says granddaughter Linda Thiessen-Belch. “We decided to plan a massive party for the long weekend at the
end of June.”
The party began Friday afternoon on a terrace at the Leamington Mennonite Home to spend some time with aunts and uncles who would not be able to join the big party.
The main event took place on Saturday and Sunday in a beautiful back yard in Olinda.
“We had cousins from California, Thunder Bay, Amherst Island, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo and Essex County,” said Thiessen-Belch. “There were 71 people in total, along with the aunts and uncles.”
Highlights of the weekend included a round of golf, music by the Overtime Band, lots of great food and fireworks.
“It was a time to gather
Terry Fox Run this weekend
and remember, celebrate, share stories and songs,” said Thiessen- Belch. “Opa had been a lay preacher for 40 years, so we wanted to acknowledge the impact his faith had on the family.”
They released 15 butterflies in honour of the 15 family members who have passed.
“I encourage everyone to remember that we’re leaving a legacy whether we know it or not, so let’s be intentional about it,” added Linda.
As Leamington celebrates its 150th year, families such as the Thiessens are still abundant in this area, with many of them going back to the early 20th century and beyond. They all have a story to tell.
The 44th annual Terry Fox run will take place in Kingsville on Sunday, September 15 at 10:30 am at Lakeside Park. According to the Kingsville site organizer, Marilyn Farnworth, the community has been very generous in the past in helping the fight against cancer.
“Last year, our Kingsville site raised $16,153,” she said. “I hope that through our online fundraising and silent auction, Kingsville and our neighbouring communities will take up the challenge to raise even more money this year.”
Farnworth says 2024 t-shirts are available at Main Street Pharmacy and you can register as a participant or a team, or even make a donation to http://run.terryfox.ca/kingsville.
They are asking all participants to collect their pledges online to make things run smoothly on the day of the event.
“You can run, walk, bike, urban pole, skateboard, or any other activity anywhere and anytime of the day you choose on September 15th to support our Kingsville Terry Fox Run,” she added. “If you can’t make it that day, you can aways do a virtual run on any day of your choice and your online donations will still be credited to our Kingsville site.”
Jim HorvatH
Happy Birthday in Heaven - September 15
How very much you’re missed is something you will never know, You left behind the broken hearts of those who loved you so. A sea of tears and endless grief would simply fade away, If only you could celebrate your special day today. This birthday token brings you love, its just a simple touch,
To let you know how dear you are, you’ll always mean so much. Loved & Missed So Much Nana, Pattie, Derrick & Jim xoxoxoxo
Who passed away five years ago, September 10, 2019
We love and miss you every day. Janice, Jamie & Jasmine, Carisa & Jeff, Danica, Ayla, Reed, Grant
Invasive plant closes Hillman Marsh trails
The aquatic invasive plant, hydrilla, has been detected for the first time in Ontario — and Canada — in the West Cell at Hillman Marsh Conservation Area.
Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) can grow up to 2.5 centimetres per day and to lengths of 7.5 metres. This rapid growing invasive species can choke out native species and clog water intake pipes, boat motors and impede other recreational activities like swimming and paddling. Hydrilla is a prohibited invasive species under Ontario’s Invasive Species Act 2015.
Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) is working closely with the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Invasive Species Centre, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and many other partners to evaluate the extent of the infestation, contain the spread, and develop plans to con-
Festival of Hawks this weekend
Essex Region Conservation and the Holiday Beach Migration Observatory (HBMO) will host the 2024 Festival of Hawks on September 14 & 15.
This will be HBMO’s 50th Anniversary of the great Hawk Count, and experts will conduct raptor and hummingbird banding and adoptions in support of their important species and populations monitoring efforts each year.
On Saturday at 2pm, this milestone anniversary will be celebrated with cake at the outdoor classroom.
There will be free educational programs and experts will share information on a wide range of birding and nature-related topics.
trol this invasive species.
To date, surveys have shown the infestation to be limited to the contained wetland area of the West Cell of Hillman Marsh that is not directly connected to Lake Erie.
In a proactive effort to contain the spread of this invasive plant, ERCA has immediately closed the West Cell of Hillman Marsh, including the trail and boardwalk, to boating, walking and hunting. Hydrilla is easily spread when boat propellers, kayaks, canoes, trailers, fishing and hunting gear, pets or people inadvertently carry attached plant fragments to new areas. The Conservation Authority is asking the public for assistance in refraining from accessing this area.
This decision has an immediate effect on the local duck hunting season.
Director of Communications and Outreach services for ERCA, Dan-
ielle Stuebing, says that all hunters involved have been notified of the closure.
“ERCA re-conducted the draw to be fair to all involved, offered refunds to those who did not wish to participate, and worked with experienced hunters to relocate blinds where possible,” she said.
Although it’s unknown how the plant was introduced, Stuebing says that it’s easily transferrable from boots, boats or even on pets.
According to Ontario’s Invading Species website, hydrilla had yet to be detected in Canada, but has been found in neighbouring American states. It’s believed to have been spread across the states through people emptying their aquariums into lakes and rivers. Hydrilla was brought into the U.S. as a popular aquarium plant in the 1950s.
Kingsville Friendly Club
President Bob Bell welcomed 39 out to play cards at the Unico Centre on Tuesday, Sept. 3, welcoming Shirley Reynolds, Brenda Hamments and Rick Wynonts.
Scores in 2 + 3 Bridge - Kim Hamm 5830; Mac Stanley 3860; Roy Trowell 3360. Scores in 6 Euchre - Kenny Bachmeier and Lila Withers tied with 79; Dave Patterson 74; Sally Bell and John Gerhardt tied with 73. Kenny Bachmeier had Most Lone Hands with six.
Scores in 1 Cribbage - Nancy Cassels 928; Stuart Wheelton 901; Sue Girardin 868. Door Prize winners were Nancy Taylor, Roy Trowell and Ken Salter.
President Bob Bell welcomed 51 members out to play cards at the Unico Centre on Friday, Sept. 6. They celebrated the September birthdays of members Bob Cranston, Marie Geeves, Irene Myers and Life Member Ken Salter with an Apple Caramel cake baked by Sweet Memories.
Scores in 3 Bridge - Kim Hamm 4050; Mac Stanley 3310; Bert Patrick 2960. Scores in 6 + 3 Euchre - Dave Malley and Marie Geeves tied at 83. Liz Taillieu 81; Rene Everaert and Fred Sleiman tied at 76. Dave Patterson and Rene Everaert were tied for Most Lone Hands with 4. Scores in 3 Pepper - Moe Hansen 235; Gordon Earl 227; Della Dyck 222. Most Peppers was Moe Hansen with seven.
For anyone who wants to join the club playing cards, they play Bridge, Euchre and Cribbage on Tuesdays starting at 12:45 and play Bridge, Euchre and Pepper on Fridays starting at 12:45. Doors open at noon both days.
SECC Ride for Refuge October 5
The South Essex Community Council (SECC) invites the community to their annual Ride for Refuge event on October 5, 2024, at the Point Pelee National Park.
The family-friendly bike and walk fundraising campaign encourages participants to come together as a community to help make a difference in the lives of refugees and displaced individuals.
“Ride for Refuge unites people from all walks of life, supporting a cause that offers hope and a sense of belonging to those who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or disaster,” said a news release from SECC. “This year, we’re focusing on a crucial need: mental health resources and welcome kits for refugees. These resources are often overlooked, yet they are essential for helping newcomers not only survive but thrive in their new communities.”
To register, donate, or learn more about the event, please visit rideforrefuge.org/ leamington.
Beer, wine at convenience stores
All licensed convenience stores in Ontario can now sell beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages, marking the largest expansion of consumer choice and convenience in provincial alcohol sales since the end of prohibition almost 100 years ago.
As of September 5, 4,187 convenience stores across Ontario were licensed to sell alcoholic beverages, in addition to nearly 3,000 other licensed retail outlets as well as takeaway options from licensed bars and restaurants.
“Today’s expansion delivers on our government’s promise to give people in Ontario the same choice and convenience enjoyed by people throughout the rest of Canada,” said Premier Doug Ford. “With today’s announcement, we’re also creating new opportunities to produce and sell world-class Ontario-made beer, wine and ready-to-drink beverages in nearly 4,200 convenience stores across the province.”
By the end of October, every eligible convenience, grocery and big-box grocery store in Ontario will be able to sell beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink alcoholic
beverages if they choose to do so.
“People finally have more options to responsibly and conveniently support local Ontario breweries and wineries –or whatever their drinkof-choice may be – even closer to home, and today’s announcement is another milestone in the government’s commitment to deliver more choice and convenience to consumers,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance. “In addition to supporting Ontario retailers, domestic producers and workers in the alcohol industry, our vision for a better marketplace has come to life thanks to people and businesses across the province.”
The government is also permanently allowing the transfer of wine and spirits between locations with the same owner and/or affiliated licensees in order to help bars and restaurants effectively manage inventory, and is allowing licensed grocery and convenience stores to display alcoholic beverages in multiple areas of a store, while maintaining small-producer shelf space requirements as well as policies that will continue to ensure the safe and responsible sale of alcohol.
Queen honoured with renaming of medal
On the second anniversary of the passing of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the provincial government renamed the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship (OMGC) to the Queen Elizabeth II Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship (QEIIOMGC). The renaming of this provincial medal of merit celebrates the connection between those who are bestowed this honour and Her Late Majesty’s sense of duty and exemplary lifetime of service.
The Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship was first presented by Queen Elizabeth II during a Royal Visit to Ontario in 1973.
Since then, 573 Ontarians have received this honour, recognizing the many ways they have driven positive change in their communities and helped build a stronger province.
“The new name for this honour is a tribute to the strong connections forged between Her Late Majesty and our province during her long and extraordinary reign,” said the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.
“The renamed medal will ensure her legacy of service will continue to inspire Ontario’s volunteers and civic leaders for generations to come.”
Applications are now
open until January 15, 2025 and Ontarians are encouraged to submit nominations through the program’s application portal. Nominating someone is easy and can be done in three steps: gathering the required information; creating an account on the Ontario Honours and Awards Portal; and submitting the application on the portal.
“Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II led a life of leadership and exceptional service,” said Michael Ford, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “The redesignation of the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship will ensure Her Maj-
esty’s legacy continues to live on through this provincial medal of merit and its recipients.”
To be eligible for this honour, the nominated individuals must stand as a model Ontarian who exemplifies civic-mindedness, integrity and community leadership. The nominee must be a resident of Ontario and have contributed to areas meaningful to the Late Queen Elizabeth II, such as: the environment; arts and culture; seniors; education and youth; community and civic engagement; health care and hospices; social clubs; history and heritage; sport and recreation, faith or animal care.
Grant Allan Bowman
Grant Bowman, 89 years, passed away on Monday, September 9, 2024 at his home in Wheatley.
Beloved husband of the late Patricia “Patty” (2010). Dear father of Mark Bowman (late Marnie)(Sue), Jeff Bowman (Wendy), Sue Ricci (Danny). Loving Grandpa of Drew, Quinn (Ella), Kyle (Dana), Brett (Kelsey), Aaron, Kalan, Karissa and Konnor and Great-Grandpa of Harper. Dear brother of the late Robert Bowman. Son of the late Roy and Jessie Bowman. Special thanks to friends Ralph and Neil.
Grant was a proud member of the Blytheswood Mic Macs, the Seacliffe Hunt Club and enjoyed his many trips north to the Epplett camp. Grant was the proprietor of Bowman Feeds Ltd. and was a proud supporter of anything Wheatley.
A private Graveside Service was held. Celebration of Grant’s life at the Roma Club Pavilion on Friday, September 13, 2024 from 1-6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the charity of your choice by contacting Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-3262631).
THANK YOU
LEAMINGTON!
As we prepare to leave the area this weekend, Mary and I wanted to thank everyone for their support and generosity over the 28 years we have lived here. Our farewell send off was a very humbling experience and very appreciated. May God continue to watch over all of you and bless you. Please know that we will always keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you again for being such a warm and welcoming community!
All our love, Deacon John and Mary Vezina
Proof of obituary to run
September 11, 2024
Southpoint Sun
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Thanks.
Apple Fest set for Sept. 28-29
The 45th annual Ruthven Apple Festival is coming to the friendly confines of Colasantis Tropical Gardens on September 28-29 weekend and organizers are excited to see all of their hard work come to fruition.
The festival is the premier annual fundraiser for Community Living Essex County and — coupled with the upcoming Jingle Bell Run in November — proceeds go to support over 400 clients and their families in Essex County living with intellectual disabilities.
Community Living Essex County Manager of Communications Tony DeSantis, says this year’s festival will feature a larger vendor area and a children’s zone.
“It’s an exciting time of year for us, said DeSantis. “Our volunteers are working hard.”
The festival kicks off Saturday, September 28 with the vendors and
farmers’ market open at 9 am, followed by opening ceremonies at 11 am and annual Apple Peeling Competition held between local dignitaries.
Live entertainment starts at 12:30 pm and runs until 5:30 pm.
A classic car show will be featured on Sunday, September 29 from 10-3.
The entertainment lineup this year includes Justin Latam, Harboring Illusions, GB n R with Miss Annette and Bad Moustache on Saturday, with Last Minute, Crystal Gage, Crowbar Hotel, Derick Hearns and Friends and Next Level on Sunday.
Ruthven Mixed Bridge Club
The Ruthven Mixed Bridge Club is looking for more players to add to their mix for the 20242025 season. The club has been going since 1953 and they are now down to four teams, but would like to have eight teams as the club moves into this next season.
They normally play a home-and-home schedule with limited entertainment, and dessert is even sometimes provided.
There is a small membership fee which helps contribute to well wishes for sick members. Money left at the end of the sea-
son is donated to a local food bank. They are willing to teach new players, and play a fun game of bridge. If interested, you can call John or Marie Campbell at 519-733-0913 or email them at mjcampbell@ wavedirect.net
Art and science exhibit coming to Point Pelee
Ontario Culture Days has announced eight new ‘Creatives in Residence’ for their province-wide festival. One of those artists will be at Point Pelee National Park.
This marks the fifth year celebrating the Creatives in Residence program, which has become an integral part of the annual festival to which many visitors look forward. In 2024, the Creatives in Residence series revolves around the theme of ‘Heartbeat’. Drawing inspiration from Don Kwan’s
Heartbeat of the Valley and utilizing reclamation, research, gathering, and interventions, these multidisciplinary artists incorporate personal and collective experiences.
Creatives are selected to participate in a 5-month long residency program, where they collaborate with local institutions and communities to create new multi-disciplinary work. Their results culminate in installations, performances, and community-based activities presented during Ontario Culture Days, which will run from September 20 through October
13.
Jennifer Willet, who will be stationed at the Point Pelee Visitors Centre on October 6, will present Baroque Biology, her residency project that will unfold as an outdoor art and science fair.
Willet invites attendees to explore the interplay between the laboratory, the creative process, and the ecosystem of the southernmost point of Canada’s mainland.
The seven other locations include Toronto, St. Catharines, Sault Ste. Marie, Scugog and the Ottawa Valley.
Local dignitaries compete in last year’s apple peeling contest. SUN archives
Hort Society names August fabulous garden award winners
By Catherine Riediger
The Leamington Horticultural Society awarded the following two Fabulous Garden Awards for August. Landscape and Tree Committee members Jacky McAllister and Charlie Wright provided the property details and pictures.
An example of what you can achieve in a small front garden can be found at 20 Whitney Court. Claudette Wadman has
spent three years tending this beautiful space. Window boxes and pots are full of red geraniums, petunias and sweet potato vines. Black-eyed Susans, red and pink hibiscus, pink hydrangea, hosta, mums, ferns and tall grasses fill the beds. Cedars, a Japanese maple and a blue spruce complete this delightful space.
A large country garden edged with tall trees at 318 Mersea Road 7 West has been developed over 21 years by Donnie Brown. Gardens edged with stone pavers are full of perennials. A spring to fall garden contains hosta, yellow and mauve day lilies, a beautiful red hibiscus, purple and orange coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, coral bells and dianthus. A small windmill, flag and birdhouses complete this lovely picture.
The Landscape and Tree Committee members will be out and about in October to view properties for the Fabulous Fall Front Yard Display Awards. If you would like to nominate someone for this award, nominations can be emailed to lhsfabulousgarden@gmail.com or call 519-326-4841.
Donnie Brown in her front yard.
Photos submitted
Claudette Wadman poses with her award.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HELP FEED THE COMMUNITY
The St. Michael’s Council K of C 4501 provides 115 meals monthly to the needy of Leamington. The Community Meals are delivered to the United Church the second Monday of every month by the St. Michael’s K of C. People in need of food pick up these donated dinners from the United Church. In the photo on the left, Ron McCracken (far right) is handing a dinner to a member of the community. In the photo on the right, Ron McCracken is giving Lillian Brissau and Shirley Chorba from the United Church a cheque for $500 as a contribution to their food bank.
5:00
Music produced by The Bank Theatre. LAC - Headliner - ALL NIGHTERS BAND 7:30 pm
Support - Clinton Anderson 5:00 pm
SHOTTEN - Headliner - SABOR LATINO BAND 7:30 pm
Support - Molly Ferdinand 5:00 pm
LEAMINGTON 150 EVENTS
All Original Acoustic Performance by Leamington’s own JODY RAFFOUL
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 • 7:00 PM
Presented by Leamington 150/Music Onthe42. Free Concert - All ages - SUNSET® Amphitheatre Seacliff Park. Opener - Andrew Taves.
EUCHRE TOURNAMENT
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
All ages. At Half Century Club. PEPPER TOURNAMENT
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5
All ages. At Half Century Club - $150 in prizes each day! FREE Entry. Limited space. Must register at playcards150@gmail.com Brought to you by Half Century Club in Leamington, in partnership with Municipality of Leamington and the Leamington 150 Committee!
Adapted by John Mattera. Based on the novel by Bram Stoker. Directed by Corey Robertson. Doors open 30 minutes before show. TICKETS $25 + HST.
THERAPEUTIC LASER...
Theralase Therapeutic Laser treatment is a unique, drug-free, non-invasive and non-immuno-suppressive therapeutic modality which reduces pain and inflammation right at the source. The bio-stimulating effects of Theralase laser therapy also cause an increase in tissue regeneration and accelerated healing.
Community Calendar
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
WHEATLEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY is holding their annual 9-hole golf scramble at Talbot Trail Golf Course. All proceeds to Horticultural Society. To register, sponsor or make donations contact Sophie at sophie.jefferson13@gmail. com or sign up at talbottrailgolfclub.com.
ONGOING
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
hosting an Open House on at 6:30 p.m. at St Mary’s Parish Hall, 12048 County Rd. 34, in Maidstone (Hwy 3, south of Manning Road). Everyone welcome.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
FOOD FOR ALL COMMUNITY LUNCHEON - 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Roma Club of Leamington (19 Seacliff Dr.). Tickets in advance for $12 (from SWO Gleaners) or $15 at the door. Pasta lunch will support the work of Southwestern Ontario Gleaners. More info: SWO Gleaners 519-326-7687 or swogleaners@gmail.com
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
PASTA DINNER FUNDRAISER - 4:00 - 6:30 p.m.
at First Baptist Church, 3 Fox St., Leamington. Includes coleslaw, garlic bread and dessert. Takeout available. Proceeds to support Richard & Joyce Walker's Mission Possible Cuba project.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
AUDITIONS FOR LITTLE TOMATO CHILDREN'S
THEATRE SUESSICAL JR. at Leamington United Church, 9 John St. Ages 6-9, 9:00 a.m. Ages 10-12, 10:30 a.m. Ages 13-18, 1:00 p.m. Visit Little Tomato Children's Theatre on Facebook, Instagram or call 519-324-7234 for more details.
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.
WESTOVER - Kingsville Community Centre, 1860 Division Rd. N. Tuesdays 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Pretreatment 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.
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.
IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, THAT’S YOUR BUSINESS If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous: 519-999-1234.
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.
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.
Work underway at Rick Atkin Park
The scheduled major renewal project at Rick Atkin Park has begun with visible signs of the upgrade getting underway.
A recent news release described the park as a “cherished community space located along Robson Road adjacent to the Leamington Marina and the waterfront promenade.”
Key Upgrades Include:
• Asphalt walking paths will be realigned to improve accessibility throughout the park, providing better access to the waterfront promenade and marina.
• The existing washroom facility will be replaced with a new, accessible building featuring larger restrooms. Additionally, a maintenance storage area will be constructed to allow municipal equipment and materials to be stored on-site.
• The park’s playground will be up-
graded with a nautical-themed wood play structure, maintaining the park’s tradition of boat-themed playgrounds. The current playground, including its old iconic wood ship, which has been a cherished feature for many years, will be replaced. The new ship will be at least as large and memorable as its predecessors, continuing to create lasting memories for children and families
• A water bottle filling station will be installed to encourage hydration and reduce plastic waste.
• The park will be equipped with electrical and water connections, enhancing its capacity to host community events and activities.
The renewal project is expected to be substantially completed this fall, with the installation of the new playground slated for spring 2025
An artist’s concept of the new playground at Rick Atkin Park. It’s expected that the playground will be installed after the new year, in time for spring opening.
A history of transportation in Leamington
by C. Scott Holland
When Essex County was first settled in the late 1700s, the only methods of travel were ships, small boats or canoes, horseback, mules, bicycles and walking. Native peoples mainly walked to their desired destinations and created dirt pathways.
In 1791 the first roadway in what was then known as Upper Canada was created and started in Sandwich (today known as LaSalle) and ran southward along the shoreline of the Detroit River to Lake Erie going past Fort Malden until it reached the small settlement of Harrow.
From there it turned eastward and meandered until it ended at the homestead of John Wendell Weigele, a bit west of Union. Its width was barely wide enough for one horse and a buggy. Its route would eventually extend towards Wilkinson’s Corners.
Stage coaches became a popular means of travel in the 1860s and future MP, MPP and Leamington mayor Lewis Wigle drove such a coach at age 16 in 1861. His route began at Blenheim and followed the route of the future highway #3 to South Windsor and Sandwich.
Railroads came to Leamington in the mid-1880s as the Leamington to Comber line was created to connect with the east-west Grand Trunk Railway line which already existed.
On its heels came the Pere Marquette (future CN) line which allowed passengers and traffic to travel from Windsor to Blenheim. By 1909 the Windsor, Essex and Lakeshore Electric Railway ran from Windsor to Essex, then to Kingsville and ended at Leamington.
The Comber and Pere Marquette Railway lines were both vital links to Leamington’s growth and agricultural products. They survived until the 1990s. The electric railway met its formal demise in 1932 and by 1935 had ended completely.
The advent of Henry Ford’s affordable automobile changed the complexion of not only Leamington but the entire world. By 1917 Leamington boasted having 15 citizens who owned cars. Mass production and lower prices by 1925 made owning a car easier for everyone.
Leamington — like other municipalities — began paving their main streets and circa 1926, Leamington’s first stop light was installed at its four corners. In the post-WW1 boom, gasoline became readily available while garages and filling stations started to dot the landscape. Car dealerships popped up in many locations, selling the various models of Detroit’s Big Three, as well as a few foreign models.
The demise of the railroads was hastened by the beginning of bus service and taxis. In 1931, Greyhound initiated bus service to and from Windsor and — like train service — made stops in other towns along the way. Taxi service has been popular since the 1930s and for many decades, Bickford Cabs was wellknown. Today there are many licensed cab companies operating within the town.
In the early 1980s, the C.A. Bailey Bus Company began providing a regular bus route which would provide transportation on an hourly route which stopped at many of Leamington’s main places. The route was expanded and experimented with throughout the years and provided citizens access to shopping, health care and special events.
Today, the company — which was bought by Switzer-Carty — operates LTGO, a bus service that caters to individual needs and times. It has designated over 120 stopping and pick-up points and can be booked via online or by phone.
As well, Leamington’s ‘Bility bus began around 1980 taking passengers to various doctor’s appointments around the county. The service has been expanded and is administered by the SECC.
One cannot forget Leamington’s main dock, which has served as the town’s port of call for freighters and the various Pelee Island ferries from over the last century, including today’s modern Pelee Islander II. There was also an experimental hovercraft which in the mid1960s made a few trips to Pelee Island.
During the last 150 years, travel has evolved greatly and with it, Leamington has remained a destination for tourists, produce, people and all modes of transportation.
Photo courtesy of the Kingsville Archives
kingsvillearchives@gmail.com
boats
taken through the placid canal or out into the rougher waters of Lake Erie. This photograph of an unidentified family, standing outside the Cedar Beach Drug Store, was taken in the late 1940s or early 1950s.
Clippings from the Wheatley Journal
Leamington’s Past courtesy of the C. Scott Holland Collection
September 1994 -Three sponsors heavily involved in the Talbot Trail Junior Golf program were on hand to present trophies at the annual championship day. Left to right: Gary Featherstone Jr., Erle Nash and Lloyd McKibbin congratulated the winners in three divisions. Novice champs pictured here are Tyler Willan and Sherra Howe.
Streetcar on Main Street East passing the Pastorius Hotel and the former Methodist Church (brick, built in 1869) a precursor of Epworth Methodist (United) Church. Photo is dated 1907.
The 1974 Leamington Centennial committee pictured outside of the Leamington Town Hall.
The MV Jiimaan making its way across Lake Erie. The Jiimaan has been out of service for the past several years.
Secure Building.
2 Bedroom Apt. Available November 1st, $2000/month. Utilities Included except cable/phone. Fridge, Stove & Dishwasher Included. Free Parking.
LEAMINGTON LAKEFRONT APARTMENTS
Upscale and affordable apartments for rent in Leamington’s ONLY waterfront rental apartment building, overlooking Leamington Marina and Park. Minutes from the beach. Amenities include:
•Library and social rooms
•Coin-less Laundry
•Beautiful lobby
•Underground parking available
•Outdoor balconies with water or city views
•FREE utilities
•Secured access and 24-7 onsite management Call Mike & Kevin for leasing information 519-326-8819 or visit www.ska-apartmentrentals.com
ZEN PETS GROOMINGCPPS Certified Groomer in Leamington. 15 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
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
ELECTROLUX SALES & SERVICE: Complete line of vacuums and shampooers/ floor polishers. Will provide free estimate on Central Vac installations. Contact Dan Bailey. 519-322-8625. tf
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 13TH, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM **Free Estimates *GOLD + Silver Jewelry+ ALL COINSBuying. 57 years experience. Roma Club, 19 Seacliffe Dr. East, Leamington. Cash Paid for ALL Gold + Silver **OLD COINS; Canada, USA, World War Medals, Windup Watches, Mintsets,Old paper money FREE ESTIMATES NO OBLIGATION **Locally Owned** 57 Years of “SATISFIED Collectors Always PAYING MORE $$$ than the Expensive Flyers in your mail (which you end up paying for). House calls also available for larger amounts Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 519818-1805. se11
Leamington jetchasepugsley@gmail.com
Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items f or Auction or Possible Purchase
CONTACT: SWITZER’S AUCTION Toll-Free 1-800-694-2609 Email Us @ sales@switzersauction.com Visit
Leamington Seeking Member for Property Standards Committee
The Municipality of Leamington seeks a dedicated individual to join the Property Standards Committee, serving until December 2026. This key role involves reviewing appeals related to property standards and contributing to the maintenance of our community’s safety and aesthetic standards.
Role and Responsibilities:
• As a quasi-judicial body, the committee reviews appeals from property owners or their agents regarding orders issued under section 15.2 of the Building Code Act, S.O. 1992, c.23.
• Responsibilities include confirming, modifying, or rescinding orders to demolish or repair properties and extending compliance deadlines as necessary to align with the Property Standards By-law and the Municipality’s Official Plan.
Candidate Profile:
• Applicants should be current or former members of the legal profession or individuals with knowledge of the rules governing quasi-judicial bodies.
• The appointed Chair will lead the committee and must be available to undergo necessary orientation and training sessions, including health and safety.
Compensation and Meetings:
• The Chair will receive $477.41 per meeting.
• Meetings are scheduled as needed and take place at the Leamington Municipal Building, 111 Erie Street North, Leamington.
Application Details:
Further details, including the application form and the Committee’s Terms of Reference, can be viewed at leamington.ca/committees and the Leamington Municipal Building.
For additional information, contact the Clerk’s Office at 519-326-5761 or via email at clerks@leamington.ca
Deadline for Applications:
The application deadline is Friday, September 20, 2024, at 4:00 PM.
Salive returns and brings gift for Leamington
By Mark Ribble
Horse racing Hall-of-Famer and Leamington native Frank Salive was honoured at Leamington Raceway on Sunday, September 8, as he called several races from his old booth atop the grandstand.
The nostalgic visit was held in conjunction with Caretaker’s Day at the track and Salive made the trek to his hometown and brought several items with him.
Those items include a pair of goalie skates, a Russian hockey trophy and a Horse Racing Hall of Fame placard, which was donated to the Southpoint Minor Hockey Alumni Group, who promised to get it into the trophy case at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre for all visitors to the arena to see.
Salive, now semi-retired from his job as one of horse racing’s most prolific announcers, spoke from the heart when addressing the crowd in Leamington.
“The intersection of hockey and horse racing for me, began in Leamington,” he said. “I got my start here and it’s fitting that these items come back home.”
The goalie skates and trophy are both from the very first World Junior Ice Hockey Championships, held in Leningrad, Russia in December of 1973.
Salive — a standout goaltender who rose through the ranks of Leamington Minor Hockey — was cut by the Leamington Flyers in the fall of 1972, but found a home with the Peterborough Petes of the OHL as a walk-on.
“Coach Roger Nielson took a chance on me,” he said.
The brand new World Junior Championships was about to take place in December and at that time, Canada sent actual Junior teams to represent the country as opposed to a national team picked from all the junior standouts. The Petes were chosen based on their previous season’s results.
Peterborough had lost in the OHL finals but the Toronto Marlboros, who had beaten them in 1972-73, had another commitment, so the Petes were sent to Russia to represent Canada.
Salive was named top goaltender in the tournament and received a fancy silver teapot as a trophy. The Russians went unbeaten to take the title. Canada tied for second with Finland in the sixteam tournament.
Tecumseh wins senior league title
The Tecumseh Seniors are the Essex County Senior Baseball League playoff champs as they defeated the Essex Diamondbacks 12-7 in extra innings on Sunday, September 8 at the Leamington Kinsmen diamonds. The Leamington Senior Barons hosted the league playoff tournament but bowed out Sunday morning following a 10-0 loss to Essex.
On Sunday, Salive arrived with a box of hockey artifacts including that teapot trophy, his goalie skates from that season, a program, several pins and banners and a horse racing placard.
Ron Sellon and Steve Tuffin were there on behalf of Southpoint Alumni Group, and Sellon reacquainted himself with Salive, who grew up down the road from him.
“Ron and I go way back,” said Salive. “His brother Brian and I were close friends as kids.”
After leaving hockey, Salive got into broadcasting and was actually chosen to do the radio broadcast of the 1976 World Juniors which was broadcast live back to Canada.
His broadcasting career flourished and he spent some time on television before opting for the horse racing business, where he has called over 150,000 races in his illustrious career, earning him the nickname “The voice of Canadian harness racing”.
After the presentation, Frank hung around and talked to old friends who had come out to see him and reminisced about the good old days in Leamington, both in hockey and harness racing.
Tecumseh had beaten Leamington 12-4 Saturday morning, but the Barons bounced back with a 14-13 win over Woodslee Saturday afternoon.
Erie Shores mens golf
Draw winners were Richard Leslie and Richard Reive. Closest to the hole on #3 Derek Horop, and #16 Cam Perrault. The longest putt on #9 Rick Metz and on #18 Ken Segedin. The three low net winners were Wayne Quinn 65, Henry Vriessen 66 and Bob Sutherland 67. The winning team at +5 included Gord Anderson, Kevin Shaften, Richard Leslie and Norm Beatie. Second at +4: Bryce Phillips, Bill Rutgers, Dave Binder and Richard Reive. Third at +3: Tom Miehl, Orest Hrynewich, Bill Manery and John Rutgers. Fourth at +2: Henry Vriesen, Ken Luxford, and Dick Segedin. The low rounds for the day were shot by John Rutgers,, Claudio Sabelli and Ken Steingart at 78, while Ken Segedin had a 79. Orest Hrynewich and Ken Steingart birdied the first hole. Kevin Shaften birdied #1, #2 and #15. Wayne Quinn and Ken Segedin had a bird on the second hole. Dave Binder #3 and #12. Dick Segedin #4, Matt Dick and Derek Horop #6, John Rutgers #7, Norm Beattie, Bill Rutgers and Dan McQueen #10, Heinz Kosempel and Claudio Sabelli #12, and Cam Perrault had his on #14.
Steve Tuffin, left and Ron Sellon, right, with Leamington’s Frank Salive as he holds his 1974 World Junior Top Goaltender award. SUN photo
Leamington hurler Lucas Ingratta (14), pitches against Woodslee on Saturday, while first baseman Ryan Wiper (46) gets set.
Leamington Bridge results
The Leamington Bridge Club’s Friday afternoon results from September 6 are as follows:
1st — Henry Hildebrandt and Bob Lee; 2nd – Roger Cote and Pauline Mikolash; 3rd – Peggy Shearn and Allen Shearn; 4th – Moira Escott and Margaret Foster; 5th – Sharon Lutz and Shirely Morel. East-West:
1st Derek Parry and Case Mulder; 2nd – Dave Derbyshire and Dale Smith; 3rd – Tracy Mitchell-Robinet and Al Morrison; 4th – Rowe Deans and Katy Klym; 5th – Agnes Fraser and Remi Fournier.
Card tournaments start this weekend
The Leamington 150 Anniversary Committee, in partnership with the Leamington and District Half Century Centre and supported by the Municipality of Leamington, have announced two upcoming allages card tournaments in celebration of Leamington’s 150th Anniversary.
A Euchre Tournament will take place on Saturday, September 14, 2024, followed by the Pepper Tournament on Saturday, October 5, 2024. Both events will be held at the Leamington and District Half Century Centre, located at 160 Talbot Street East, Leamington.
“We’re happy to offer these inclusive, communityfocused events as part of our 150th-anniversary celebrations,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “These tournaments are a wonderful opportunity for residents of all ages to come together, enjoy some friendly competition, and celebrate Leamington’s history and community spirit.”
Whether you’re a seasoned card player or new to the game, these events promise an enjoyable experience for all. Space for the tournaments is limited, and participants must register early to secure a spot. To register, please email playcards150@gmail.com.
For more information on Leamington’s 150th Anniversary events, please visit leamington.ca/150.
Talbot Trail Seniors Scramble
On September 3, the league members played their third scramble on a beautiful sunny day. However, it was surprising that only four of the thirteen teams shot below par.
Kreug of T3G3 won the CP on #7 when his terrific shot ended up 19 feet from the pin. Al Matthews had an excellent CP shot on #7 to within eight feet of the pin. Conrad Babkirk of T5G1 drained a superb 12-foot putt to win the LP. Kreug, Al and Conrad each won a sleeve of balls and all players received gift cards.
The first place team shooting a spectacular five-under was T3G3- Kreug, Hillier, Andy Gould, Phil Humphries and John Hall. Second place, with a brilliant score of two under went to T3G2- Dutchy, Brian Isaacs, Karl Werner, and Paul Carioli. Third place was won by T6G1 by shooting a praiseworthy one under. The players were the following: Dunner, Tim Will, Ray Foster and Ken Womack. Fourth place went to T3G1 with their own one under. The playing partners were Clarkie, Carl Robinson, Dave Chambers and Len Snively.
There was a three-way tie for the Most Honest team at +3. By a hidden yellow ball draw T1G1 earned this distinction. Depending on how the teams finished, they won a various numbers of golf balls.
The 50-25-25 draw was very successful thanks to our generous members. Ray Foster did another excellent job selling the tickets. Two draw winners won $82.50 gift cards. Other winners received gift cards of $30, $25, $15, and $10.
Special thanks to Fuzzy, Dave, Wiz, and everyone else who assisted We appreciated Carl and Ken sharing their funny jokes with us. Mack and his staff did an excellent job feeding this hungry crew.
So
Sharks set to start 2024-25 season with home opener Wednesday, September 11
By Greg Coulter
Fresh off a grueling training camp and two exhibition games, the Wheatley Omstead Sharks are eager to test the waters of regular season play beginning with three home games in the next week.
Tonight, Wednesday, September 11, Mooretown rolls into town at 7:30, followed by Essex on Saturday the 14th at 7:30 and Walpole Island on Wednesday the 18th. With several veterans
moving on due to age, school and work commitments, the Sharks are looking younger this season with a great nucleus of local talent.
“The young players are hungry to learn and do what is necessary to transition to junior hockey,” says head coach Josh Carnevale. “We feel our defense will be our strength with most of last year’s blueliners returning and goaltending stalwart Ethan Handley joining us for his overage season.”
The Sharks split with Blenheim last week in exhibition tilts, with Wheatley winning game one 6-4 and the Blades taking game two 5-3. Vito Alfano scored in both of those games.
Season tickets, Sharks merchandise and sponsorship opportunities go a long way to helping the team remain viable, giving local players a great opportunity to continue their hockey careers.
Flyers dominate two road games to start season
By C. Scott Holland
With a new season underway, the Leamington Flyers have served notice that they’ll be a tough competitor to beat in their current campaign of the Ontario Junior Hockey League.
Some turnover has occurred but the 2024-25 team has some valuable additions including two new goalies, a former player, some local flavor and a foundation of returning players from the club’s inaugural season. They began the schedule with two road games.
On Friday night they lashed the Lindsay Muskies 7-1 and then in a late Saturday afternoon affair they battled hard against the Haliburton Huskies and won 8-2. The second contest was impressive with four powerplay goals scored on five chances.
Head coach Dale Mitchell commented on his team’s 2-0 start.
“I really enjoyed our game against Haliburton,” he said. “We did a lot of the little things right and kept our composure, especially when we went down 2-1 early in the second.”
He added, “Friday’s long trip to Lindsay was tough and it felt like we had bus legs in the first period. But after that we responded well and scored some timely goals. Our special teams also played an important role throughout the weekend. It was great to see our captain, Adrian Bosev, start the season on fire with seven points in two games.”
Against Lindsay, the Flyers grabbed a 2-0 first period lead. Brayden Degelas opened the Flyers scoring at 7:31 when he pumped the handiwork of Adrian Bosev past Lindsay goalie Robby DiMaria. While on a powerplay late in the first, Griffin Grundner and Colton Smith laid the groundwork for Bosev’s tally.
In the middle frame, Degelas and Bosev assisted as Tyler McGuire rifled the puck into the Lindsay net. But the Muskies fired their lone marker on starter Tre Altiman at 16:16 and it was a 3-1 game heading into the third.
While the Flyers defense continued to handle any Lindsay threats, their offense kept rolling. Smith fired
his first of the season off a Nick Mahy pass and at 17:53, Smith netted an empty-net goal.
Yet the Flyers weren’t done turning DiMaria inside-out as Bosev netted his second of the game at 19:16 and then Jobey Pearson and Brody Cook assisted on Ashton Darocy’s marker at 19:48.
Altiman stopped 34 Muskies’ shots for the win and the Flyers powerplay went 2-for-3 while holding Lindsay to 0-for-4.
Saturday afternoon in Halburton, the Flyers struck first late in the opening frame for a 1-0 lead. That didn’t last long as the Huskies notched their two goals on starter Marcus Vandenberg in the opening 90 seconds of the second. It was an all Flyers offense the rest of the way and the Huskies helped them out quite a bit via penalty trouble.
During the last minute of play in the opening frame, Carter Gillen and Mason Landry hooked with Anthony Ciaramitaro on a powerplay drive and Ciaramitaro’s left point blast found the Haliburton net.
Just 27 seconds into the middle period, Haliburton knotted the contest on a powerplay of their own as Flyer Marquise Brown was sidelined due to an infraction at the end of the first.
Leamington fell behind 2-1 at 1:11 when Haliburton tabbed their second and last goal on starter Marcus Vandenberg.
However, the Flyers quickly regrouped. Griffin Grundner tied the contest at 2:20 then at 5:14 Bosev converted the work of Carter Gillen and Sean Truby to put Leamington ahead 3-2.
At 12:37, Brody Cook made it 4-2. Leamington native and Flyers’ rookie Ethan Tatomir triggered his first of the campaign and Leamington headed into the third ahead 5-2.
The action intensified in the third as both teams jockeyed for the next goal but it was the Flyers who got that marker. Colton Smith cashed in his tally near the five-minute mark and at that juncture the Huskies inserted their back-up goalie Carter Nadon. Nadon was greeted by a play several minutes into his stint when Marquise Brown and Brayden Degelas set up Bosev at 8:30. Degelas put the icing on the Flyers’ second straight victory with seconds left in the game as the Flyers won 8-2.
Vandenberg got the win in goal as he handled 23 of the 25 that came his way. The Flyers went 4-for-5 with the man advantage.
Leamington will hold their home opener this coming Thurs., Sept. 12 when they host the Buffalo Jr. Sabres at 7:10 pm and also play at home Sunday, September 15 when they host the King Rebellion (former Brantford 99ers) at 6:10 pm.
Sharks forward Carter Loffleman (19) drives the net in anticipation of a cross-crease pass from Seth Zylstra in the Sharks home exhibition game last week against Blenheim. Greg Coulter photo
