Annual Santa Claus Parade lights up Wheatley
By Deanna Bertrand Wheatley
year’s Santa Claus Parade.
Erie Street came alive with Christmas lights, sounds and scenes on Saturday December 7.
There were lighted floats, cars, tractors and trailers, as well as many people marching along the route.
Entries included the Wheatley Legion Colour Party, Wheatley Sharks, Wheatley Skating Club, Fish Festival Committee, Leamington District Secondary School marching band and many more school and community entries that were all dressed in their Christmas best.
Several hundred families fanned out along the parade route with children eagerly waiting Santa and Mrs. Claus. Christmas gifts came early with many treats like candies, chocolates and of course candy canes being thrown out to the crowds filling many bags, buckets and even the pockets of moms and dads.
The parade, presented by the Wheatley Fish Festival Committee, started at Wheatley Area Arena and proceeded south on Erie Street, passing the main intersection where BIA volunteers were handing out free hot chocolate topped with marshmallows. The parade ended at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament on Middleton Line.
Fish Festival Committee spokesperson Hilary Hodgson said on Sunday that they had 70 entries in this year’s parade, which she believes is a new record.
Santa waves to families as Mrs. Claus smiles for the camera at the annual Wheatley Santa Claus Parade on Saturday, December 7. SUN photos by Deanna Bertrand
Four-year-olds Noah Wall and Blake Klompstra anxiously await the arrival of Santa Claus in downtown Wheatley on Saturday night.
Volunteers Eva Durocher (left) and Tracy Loop with the Wheatley BIA served up free hot chocolate prior to the start of the parade.
Kingsville (ASK) display at the
supporting local vendors this past weekend at Lakeside Park Pa-
of the
Fantasy of Lights experience which runs through
its Artisan
and Sale now through January 5 at the gallery located at 28 Division Street South. For more information on ASK, visit their website at artssocietyofkingsville. ca or for more on Fantasy of Lights and events go to kingsville.ca.
Chamber holds Jingle and Mingle
The annual Jingle and Mingle hosted by the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce was held at Best Western Plus on Thursday, December 5.
The sold-out event featured about 20 expo tables from various businesses, clubs and agencies in the area.
Christmas Schedule - Everyone Welcome
The UMEI choir provided entertainment prior to lunch time.
A turkey luncheon was also part of the event, followed by keynote speaker Danielle Campo McLeod, who talked to the audience about overcoming obstacles in life.
Campo McLeod, a paralympic multi-gold medal swimmer from Windsor, told of her journey being diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy as a young child and later finding out that she had a different muscular afflic-
tion and the comfort she found in swimming. She also captivated the audience with the story about her recent health battle when — after giving birth to her daughter in 2021 — she became septic and spent several weeks in ICU battling infection after infection. Her rise from that incident and the challenges faced along the way as she grew up, stood as a testament that if you want to succeed, you must put in the work with your ultimate goal in mind.
Christmas Artisan Market,
vilion. The market was part
Kingsville
to January 2. ASK is also running
Show
SUN photo by Deanna Bertrand
ARTISAN SHOW AT LAKESIDE PARK
Danielle Campo McLeod speaks to a sold out audience at the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce annual Jingle and Mingle on Thursday, December 5. SUN photo
The Phoenix rises at Dance-O-Logy XIX
By Paul Forman
Facing adversity and being brave in response to what life throws at us was front and centre in Leamington’s CCCSS Auditorium for three sold-out Dance-O-Logy performances that ran December 4-6.
Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School dance teacher and show director Maggy Sonoski said that this year’s theme of a phoenix rising from the ashes came from conversations in
class with her students.
“Students brought up some very serious issues such as alienation, impossible body standards, troubles with social media and concerns for our Earth,” said Sonoski. “This show is a vehicle to educate and provides a voice for what the students are feeling. It really is about bravery and finding a way to rise from the ashes.”
Celebrating its 19th year, Dance-O-Logy featured seven dance
teams from Cardinal Carter Secondary Junior and Senior Academies, Cardinal Carter Middle School and Academy, St. John de Brebeuf Catholic Elementary School in Kingsville and the Windsor Express.
Kiana Dobson, a dance expert at the Cardinal Carter Academies, was clearly excited for the dancers to show what they had put together for the audience.
“Our dancers are always trying to get bet-
Back
ter and really pushed themselves this year. The teams at all levels have truly blown me out of the water,” commented Dobson.
Kingsville’s past. Stories of past events and days gone by will charm you every step of the way. Scan for a detailed map and enjoy at your own pace in this self-guided walking tour.
The finale featured all of the dancers from the show as they focused on what the show was all about. SUN photos by Paul Forman
The Cardinal Carter Dance Team hit upon the impact we have on Earth as they danced to a piece called The Seed.
LDSS students hit the streets to support Goodfellows Christmas Basket Campaign
By Paul Forman
A
collaboration
that has existed now for 46 years, approximately 100
LEAMINGTON UNITED CHURCH
9 John St. Leamington (near the library) Pastor Melodee Lovering mmlovering@gmail.com Sunday worship begins at 10:30 am. Choir practice 9:30 am with music director, Erin Armstrong. Sunday School is held during worship after story time.
UPCOMING ADVENT & CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Dec. 15: Advent 3 - Joy - Mini Pageant by our Sunday school. It is also “Sparkle Sunday”, if you wish wear something with a little sparkle about it, a tie, a pin, a sweater.
Wed. Dec. 18 at 7 pm: Carol singing, Christmas cookies and performances by Erin’s voice students. Freewill offering.
Dec. 22: Advent 4 - Love
Dec. 24 at 7 pm: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Everyone Welcome!
students from Leamington District Secondary School canvassed the town seeking monetary donations and canned goods for the Leamington Goodfellows on Friday, December 6.
“We couldn’t do it without them,” said Goodfellows president Bill Slater about the kids’ efforts. He added, “They’ve worked so hard
to help us and we love to see these young people volunteering to help in their community.”
The canned goods were sorted by 18 volunteers and will be part of the Goodfellows’ gift baskets that will be provided to 190 individuals and families later in the month.
The can drive was part of a friendly competition
between two student teams, the Souper Heroes versus the Canacondas.
Nicholas Mastromatteo, one of the captains of the Souper Heroes, was clearly excited with the students’ efforts. “It’s great to help out with a cause like this. It really gave us a chance to apply our skills learned in our leadership class,” he said.
Both student teams had a win, as the Canacondas collected the most cans, while the Souper Heroes brought in the highest total of monetary donations. With monetary donations and cans collected being combined, the Souper Heroes took this year’s overall charitable title.
Melissa Beardsley Registered Hearing Instrument Specialist
These hard-working girls were wrapping up their collections in a local subdivision just before heading back to the warehouse for the official count. Pictured, from the left, are Sita Voewn, Emry Murray, Kennady Enns and Susanah Jemsi. SUN photos by Paul Forman
The overall winners in this year’s can drive were the Souper Heroes.
KIWANIS HELPING THOSE IN NEED
The Kiwanis Club of Leamington
DECEMBER
Recreational Programs
Children & Youth DANCE (BALLET FOUNDATIONS)
Ages 4 to 5 Saturdays — 9:00 am
DANCE (BALLET/JAZZ FUSION) — Ages 6 to 7 Saturdays — 10:00 am
GYMNASTICS (BEGINNER) — Ages 10 months to 6 years
Saturdays — 9:30 am (10 to 24 months) & 10:30 am (2 to 3 years) & 11:30 am (4 to 6 years)
Chances
in Leamington. From left are Kiwanians James Ives and Doreen Hillier, Homelessness Hub Coordinator Laura MacMillan, Kiwanian Ed Kudroch, Homelessness Hub Manager Bryan Rock and Kiwanis President Jamie Wiper.
JUNIOR STEM — Ages 5 to 8 Tuesdays — 4:30 pm
photo
The
MULTISPORT — Ages 7 to 10 Wednesdays — 4:30 pm
LEGO CLUB — Ages 5 to 12 Thursdays — 4:30 pm
Parent’s Night Out
PARENT’S NIGHT OUT —
Ages 4 to 12
Teens & Adults
CHAIR YOGA
Drop-In Programs BOARD GAME CAFÉ
Ages 14+
Dec 13 — 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Dec 17, Dec 31 — 9:30 am to 10:15 am
Dec 12 — 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
TAI CHI — Ages 18+ Mondays — 7:15 pm
recently made a $5,000 donation to support the ongoing
from
SUN
TOY DRIVE
Montreal
Chapman, Sanger & Associates
Erie Shores Dentistry
Freshco
Heritage Village Museum
Kingsville South Fire Station
Libro Credit Union
OG Pizza, Cottam
Olivito Family Dentistry
Red Apple
Southgate Village
Tamar
TD Canada Trust
are
OPEN GYM PARENTS & TOTS — Ages 10 months to 6 years Tuesdays — 9:30 am (10 months to 24 months) & 10:45 am (2 years to 3 years) Sundays — 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (10 months to 6 years)
KINGSVILLE PAINTER’S GUILD — Ages 16+ Wednesdays — 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
INDOOR PICKLEBALL
Kingsville Goodfellows
Mondays, Wednesdays — 7:30 am to 1:00 pm Tuesdays — 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm Thursdays, Fridays — 7:30 am to 12:00 pm
INDOOR BADMINTON Thursdays — 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm
CORN HOLE TOSS Saturdays — 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm Other Programming CREATIVE 55+
Tuesdays — 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
ARTS & CRAFTS The town supports programming through the Arts Society of Kingsville 55+ & ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES The
Kiwanis Club of Leamington
work of The Salvation Army Leamington. Displaying the cheque,
left,
Derik Hyatt (Salvation Army), Ed Kudroch (Kiwanis), Doreen Hillier (Kiwanis), Jamie Wiper (Kiwanis) and Veronica Costa (Salvation Army).
photo
opinion ~ expression ~ and other musings
Take the time to check out all the local talent
I had the pleasure of taking in a few local performances over the past few months, whether it be concerts, plays or other creative events. For those who have not made it out to see any of these performers, you really don’t know what you’re missing.
There are venues in all three of our readership communities — Kingsville, Leamington and Wheatley — which lend themselves to intimate, cozy and enjoyable experiences.
Live theatre, music, art and other creative ventures are celebrated in this area and provide lots of affordable entertainment for pret-
ty much any taste. Of course, we have our very talented local acts such as Jody, Billy and Peter Raffoul, but it goes beyond that when you include Mary Newland and Richard Baker, Richard Janik, Justin Latam and the numerous performers who grace the stages in local establishments each and every weekend.
The Soli Deo Gloria Singers, Essex Vocal Express and County Classic Chorale also provide classic chorus-style shows for those who enjoy that genre. And let’s not forget the numerous visits by the Windsor Symphony Orchestra.
The musical talent in this
area runs deep, from a simple solo performer on an acoustic guitar to full bands with multiple instruments — it really is amazing.
The acts brought in during the summer in all three of our communities are also top-notch, with Hogs for Hospice, The Bank Theatre, the now-paused Kingsville Music Festival and Two Creeks Summer Concert Series all bringing in great entertainment choices over the years.
And let’s not forget the arts, all supported by the South Essex Arts Association and the Arts Society of Kingsville. Those two organizations flourish in this area and help local artists
1926 Model T Ford for $75
This 1926 Model T Ford coach shows Paul Dodington behind the wheel for his last spin in this car before donating it to his nephew Mike Windsor in Gravenhurst. Paul bought this car in 1954 for $75 right off someone’s front lawn in Orangeville. Paul was 15 at the time.
When he tried to
crank start the car, the engine backfired and the crank broke his arm. When he went to the local hospital, the doctor had seen this problem before: “That’s a Ford fracture!”
THE OLD CAR DETECTIVE
Bill Sherk
After Paul learned how to start the car properly, his dad came up from To-
ronto and drove the car home for Paul because he did not yet have a license. Hurricane Hazel hit Toronto that week and most cars were stalled, but the Model T with its high road clearance sailed right through.
The Model T was built from 1908 to 1927 with over 15 million produced. Canada had its biggest Model T year in 1926 with over 100,000 built in the Ford factory on the outskirts of Windsor.
flourish as well, with different events and competitions over the course of the year.
Those that put on the plays — from the producer, to the director, to the actors to the stage crew and volunteers — all strive to bring you the best entertainment they can, and with a smile on their face.
And it’s not just The Bank Theatre, but productions by Little Tomato Children’s Theatre, the former Migration Hall and even the handful of Murder Mystery dinners that dot the local landscape.
My wife Debbie and I started going to occasional theatre performances a couple of years ago and found that we thoroughly enjoy it.
Three summers ago, in the midst of the pandem-
ic, we were in the Gananoque area for a few days and decided to check out the Thousand Islands Playhouse. We saw a play there called Perfect Wedding, which was absolutely hilarious.
Mark Ribble
And with that, we got the theatre bug, vowing to pay more attention to the theatres in our area.
And we have. My job has allowed me to check out rehearsals for many of the local productions and I can tell you that the production value is high for these local shows. We usually end up getting tickets to those shows after I’ve taken rehearsal photos.
Technological advances in lighting, sounds and props have elevated com-
munity theatre beyond what you might expect.
So, as the Christmas season sets in, with parties here, there and everywhere, take some time to seek out those little gems, whether it’s a local chorus performing Christmas music, a local duo playing a small church auditorium, a small acting troupe putting on an improv night, or a jazz trio playing the bigger stage.
You’ll be glad you did, and in turn, you’re supporting something local, which, deep-down, is something we all strive to do.
Memories of Doc Pomus
Growing up in the late 1950s and early 1960s was a wonderful time as there were so many new and exciting acts on the radio compared to the 1940s and the early to mid 1950s.
Along with these new and wonderful acts, there were many incredibly talented songwriters coming out with an array of songs fitting all kinds of genre. Whether it be country, rock ’n’ roll, jazz or even big band music, there was something for everyone. And one particular songwriter who was considered one of the best early rock ’n’ roll writers was Doc Pomus or the “Doc” as he was called by many musicians.
Born on June 27, 1925, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York, his birth name was Jerome Solon Felder. Having contracted polio as a youngster, he was in an iron lung for a year and walked with the aid of crutches. That’s when the nick name “Doc Pomus” has stuck with him ever since.
Later, due to post-polio syndrome, worsened by an accident, Felder relied on a wheelchair. He was also home schooled during most of his elementary and junior high school days.
He became a fan of the blues after hearing a Big Joe Turner record, “Piney Brown Blues”, which he claims changed the direction of his life. He attended Bushwick High School and then Brooklyn College where he studied music.
From 1943 to 1945 Felder learned to play piano and
saxophone.
Once he was finished with school, using the stage name of Doc Pomus, Felder began performing as a blues singer. He started going to jazz clubs. It was doing his own version of popular blues songs that were received very favourably by club patrons.
FLASHBACK RADIO with Chuck Reynolds
Shuman. He picked Shuman because he knew very little about contemporary music and Mort did.
In 1947, Pomus became one of Atlantic Records original songwriters. By the early 1950s, Pomus began writing magazine articles and songs for Ruth Brown, Lavern Baker, Ray Charles and Big Joe Turner. With Charles’ R&B top ten recording in 1956 of Pomus’s song “Lonely Avenue”, the Doc had his first national breakthrough.
However, his first rock ’n’ roll break came when the Coasters recorded his song “Young Blood”. But by the time that songwriters Jerry Lieber and Mike Stoller got through rewriting and changing it so much, it hardly seemed to be the same song. Pomus didn’t hear about it until he heard it on a jukebox. But, as he was given co-credit as a lyricist, he did receive a royalty check for $2,500. In today’s funds that would be over $27,000. Thus, not long after receiving it, Pomus wisely gave up performing in 1957 and decided to be a songwriter instead where he could make a lot more money. The first thing he did was become a collaborator with pianist Mort
So, for the most part, Shuman wrote the music and Pomus wrote the lyrics. They worked together then at the famous Brill Building on 1619 Broadway, in New York. And what a team they made, with hits like “Teenager in Love”, “Save the Last Dance for Me”, “This Magic Moment”, “Little Sister”, “Can’t Get Used to Losing You”, “(Marie’s the Name of) His Latest Flame”, “Suspicion” and “Surrender”, written for stars like the Drifters, Andy Williams, Elvis Presley, Bobby Darin, Dion and the Belmonts and many more.
Mind you, with the Beatles arrival in 1964, followed by the British Invasion, the famous Brill Building soon lost many of its clients as many new groups and artists coming out started writing their own songs and lyrics. Doc Pomus was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a non-performer, who continued to write songs. He was also inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame as a non-performer.
Sadly, he died on March 14, 1991, at the age of 65.
Paul Dodington takes the wheel when he goes for his last drive in his 1926 Model T.
Santa made his annual visit to the Wheatley Fire Station on Sunday, December 8 with plenty of activities for the kids, gallons of hot chocolate and a mountain of marshmallows. Families from Wheatley and the surrounding area enjoyed the afternoon with the big guy and got to tour the station. In the photo on the left, young Nora Gruber doesn’t quite know what to think of Santa as she gets a little help from her mom, Reija. In the middle photo, firefighter Caleb Beaupre shared some good times with Sparky the Fire Dog, and in the photo on the right, Heather Harris stood in line to meet Santa and tell him her wishes, although she says she feels like she’s known him all her life. SUN photos
Inclement weather may delay paper delivery
As the winter months set in and with them, slushy, snowy and icy roads, readers may experience delays in getting their weekly copy of the Southpoint Sun. Extreme weather conditions may pre-
vent the drivers who deliver the paper from getting to all areas of the communities we serve in a timely manner. We appreciate your patience if or when that occurs.
2025 PRE-BUDGET CONSULTATIONS
The Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs will meet to conduct Pre-Budget Consultations.
The Committee intends to hold public hearings in Timmins on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, in Manitoulin Island on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, in Kenora on Thursday, December 5, 2024, in Stratford on Monday, December 16, 2024, in Ottawa on Thursday, January 9, 2025, in Leamington on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in St. Catharines on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, in Hamilton on Thursday, January 16, 2025, in Stouffville on Monday, January 27, 2025, in Mississauga on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, in Toronto on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 and, in Peterborough on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
Interested people who wish to be considered to make an oral presentation to the Committee are required to register by:
• 5:00 p.m. (EST) on Monday, November 25, 2024 for Timmins and Manitoulin Island;
• 5:00 p.m. (CST) on Monday, November 25, 2024 for Kenora;
• 5:00 p.m. (EST) on Friday, December 6, 2024 for Stratford;
• 5:00 p.m. (EST) on Friday, December 27, 2024 for Ottawa;
• 5:00 p.m. (EST) on Monday, January 6, 2025 for Leamington, St. Catharines and Hamilton;
• 5:00 p.m. (EST) on Friday, January 17, 2025 for Stouffville, Mississauga, Toronto and Peterborough;
• Dec. 25th issue will come out Monday, Dec. 23rd
• Jan. 1st issue will come out Monday, Dec. 30th
Those who do not wish to make an oral presentation but wish to comment on the issue may send a written submission by 7:00 p.m. (EST) on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
To register or send a written submission, please visit the following link: ola.org/en/apply-committees.
The Committee will stream live from location when available. For the link to the webcast, and to find times and availability, please visit the Legislative Assembly website at ola.org.
Ernie Hardeman, MPP, Chair Vanessa Kattar, Clerk Whitney Block, Room 1405 Toronto, ON M7A 1A2
Telephone: 416-325-3509 Facsimile: 416-325-3505 TTY: 416-325-3538 E-mail: scfea@ola.org
SANTA MAKES STOP AT FIRE HALL
Kingsville donors stuff the fire truck
By Deanna Bertrand
Kingsville Fire Department’s pumper truck was filled with toys Saturday, December 7 from a very successful campaign benefiting Toys for Tots.
Kingsville Red Apple store sponsored the event for the fifth year with a percentage of toy sales being donated as well.
Store manager Claude Fortier said at the store Saturday, “We
have over $2,000 in sales today so far and we have beat our goal of $4,000 over the past three weeks.”
They also had been collecting Toys for Tots in the “fill the sleigh” campaign in the store.
Kingsville firefighters spent a good portion of the day accepting toy donations and filling up all space, from the cab to every nook and cranny of the fire truck.
Kingsville Friendly Club updates
Kingsville Friendly Club president Bob Bell welcomed 35 members out to play cards at the Unico Centre on December 3, welcoming back Doreen Hillier.
Scores in Bridge: Kim Hamm 3920, Roy Trowell 3520, Bert Patrick 3060. Euchre: Rene Everaert 93,
Dave Patterson 92, Rick Wynants 88. Most lone hands: Dave Patterson 7. Cribbage: Nancy Cassels 930, Sue Girardin 923, Stuart Wheelton 908. There were 45 members out to play cards at the Unico Centre on December 6. It was Birthday Cake Day for all those cel-
In Loving Memory of
Earl DunmorE
August 7, 1935 - December 13, 2019
Should you go first and I remain
To walk the road alone,
I’ll live in memory’s garden, dear,
With happy days we’ve known.
In Spring I’ll wait for roses red,
When fades the lilac blue.
In early Fall, when brown leaves call
I’ll catch a glimpse of you.
Should you go first and I remain,
One thing I’d have you do:
Walk slowly down that long, long path,
For soon I’ll follow you.
I’ll want to know each step you take
That I may walk the same,
For someday down that long, long road
You’ll hear me call your name.
Always in our hearts.
Norma, Bradley, Cheryl, Michael & Families & Friends
Also on hand were the Kingsville Gosfield South Goodfellows helping with collection of toys.
“Lorne Bradt distributes it,” says Goodfellow Alex McHardy. “I don’t know what we would do without him.”
The event was a collaboration between Red Apple, ‘Father Christmas’, Kingsville Fire and Rescue and Kingsville Goodfellows
ebrating December birthdays: Brenda Anger, John Bigley, Annette Cranston, Kathy Hedge, Mandy Hric, life member Mary Kovacs, who celebrates her 101st birthday on December 24, and life member Lyle Rumble.
Bridge: Bert Patrick 3390, Bob Bell 3180, Kim
In Loving Memory of
Blue
Christmas Service is December 21
A Blue Christmas Service will be held on Saturday, December 21 at 5:00 p.m. at Wheatley United Church. Christmas can be a difficult time for many, and this special service offers a gentle and comforting place to reflect on different losses – the loss of a loved one, a relationship or a job.
The non-denominational service is a time of quiet solace and provides an opportunity to acknowledge loss and pain, and find hope and strength during the holiday season.
The service will be led by Pastor John Cats. All are welcome. The church is located at 59 Talbot Street West in Wheatley.
October 24, 1908 - December 24, 2005 Love Your Family
Hamm 3100. Euchre: John Gerhardt 107, Kenny Bachmeier 98, Joe Sabelli 97. Most lone hands: Carrie Schultz and John Gerhardt with 5 each. Pepper: Winnie Moore 271, Gordon Earl 244, Sue Girardin 225. Most peppers: John Bigley 8.
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.
Dec. 6: 1st Pauline Mikolash and Roger Cote, 2nd Henry Hildebrandt and George Hildebrandt, 3rd Al Morrison and Derek Parry.
Dec. 9: North/South1st George Hildebrandt and Henry Hildebrandt, 2nd Pauline Mikolash and Roger Cote, 3rd Theresa Flynn and Shirley Morel. East/West - 1st Agnes Fraser and Ross Macintosh, 2nd Rowe Deans and Katy Klym, 3rd Mac Stanley and Sue Duransky.
Do you have art supplies, puzzles or board games tucked away around your house that you don’t use? Are you looking for a way to support the Leamington Community Hope Centre?
The Hope Centre’s adult women’s recovery house is looking for new or used art supplies, games and puzzles.
Donation centre hours are Monday, Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Location is 58 Erie Street South. If you have any questions, call 519-326-9280.
Hope Centre looking for art supplies, games, puzzles Public
helps register more than 1,000 AEDs
Essex-Windsor EMS is grateful to the public for helping it locate and add to its registry more than 1,000 publicly accessible automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
Chief Justin Lammers recently presented Tecumseh resident Andrea Ducharme with an Essex-Windsor EMS meritorious service coin for locating more than 20 AEDs. He also applauded EMS staff and members of the public who have helped register AEDs and raise awareness about how the devices can save lives in cases of cardiac arrest.
“The sooner an AED is applied, the better the chances of survival,” Chief Lammers said. “Much like smoke detectors help give people a chance to escape before firefighters arrive, AEDs allow members of public to start assisting someone suffering cardiac arrest while paramedics are on the way.”
If a sudden cardiac arrest victim receives defibrillation through an AED within the first minute, the survival rate is estimated at 90 per cent. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, the probability of survival decreases by seven to 10 per cent.
The initiative to map AEDs in Essex County and Windsor began after Essex-Windsor EMS adopted PulsePoint AED, one of the most widely used types of software for this purpose. There are now 1,041 publicly accessible
AEDs mapped and registered with Essex-Windsor EMS. More are being added as awareness grows. The PulsePoint AED smartphone app allows users to easily upload photos of AEDs and mark their locations on a map. Once the information is verified by Essex-Windsor EMS, it is published on the map, which is available to the public on the PulsePoint AED app. More importantly, the information is put at the fingertips of ambulance communications officers, who take 911 calls and dispatch paramedics. The communications officers can quickly direct callers to the nearest AED in cases of cardiac arrest.
Andrea Ducharme, her husband Dustin and two of their three children (Elise, 13, and Spencer, 11) took part in an AED and CPR awareness session presented by Essex-Windsor EMS in early 2024. At the end of the session, paramedic Dave Thibodeau showed the participants how to download and use the PulsePoint AED app.
“Taking the awareness session was definitely an eye-opener for us,” said Andrea, who was intrigued and keen to get involved.
You can go to the Essex-Windsor EMS webpage (countyofessex.ca/ AED) for more information and quick links to download the PulsePoint AED app.
Helping stuff the Kingsville fire truck with toys were, left to right, Jeremy McHardy, Sparky the Fire Dog, Bryan Girling, Richard Reive, Steve Toplass, Jeff McHardy, and Dan Caille. SUN photo by Deanna Bertrand
WSO PRESENTS HANDEL’S MESSIAH
A way of celebrating the season in a most traditional way, the Windsor Symphony Orchestra was joined by the Windsor Classic Chorale to perform Handel’s Messiah at the United Church in Leamington on December 6. First performed in Dublin in 1742, the oratorio tells the story of Christ and is regarded as one of the best-known choral works of Western music highlighted by the “Hallelujah” chorus. Conducted by Maestro Robert Franz, the WSO was also accompanied by the captivating solo vocals of Soprano Chelsea Van Pelt and Baritone Korin Thomas-Smith. The stop in Leamington was part of a county series that was generously supported by Windsor’s Cardinal Place. In the photo, Maestro Robert Franz expertly commanded players from the WSO while the Windsor Classic Chorale, led by Chorus master Dr. Bruce J.G. Kotowich, provided powerful accompanying vocals at the Leamington United Church. SUN photo by Paul Forman
Rock ’N Wine raises
The Rock ’N Wine event held on Friday, November 29 at Mastronardi Estate Winery raised $50,000 for the Erie Shores Health Foundation MRI campaign.
The event, hosted by Abraham Orthodontics and featuring the Jody Raffoul Band as the entertainment, also featured raffles and a 50-50 draw.
“This was such an amazing outpour of support for Erie Shores and bringing imaging that everyone outside of Wind-
$50,000
sor may need, as Erie Shores catchment includes all of the county and Wheatley of Chatham-Kent,” said Christen Abraham, community outreach coordinator and co-founder of Abraham Orthodontics. “We are so grateful for our sponsors, the work of the leadership at the hospital and foundation in making this a reality to bring accessible diagnostic treatment close to home.”
SEASONAL MUSIC WITH THE LIGHTS
THE MUNICIPAL OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS ON THE FOLLOWING DATES
DECEMBER 24, 25, 26, 31 & JANUARY 1 Visit online anytime at kingsville.ca
Two Creeks Indoors will present The Lights – David and Sharon – on Sunday, December 15 at 2 p.m. at Wheatley United Church, 59 Talbot Road West. Sharon’s beautiful soprano voice and David’s mellow baritone and virtuosity are sure to be a joyous afternoon of seasonal music. Everyone is welcome. Admission is by donation. Photo submitted
Nello Matassa
Nello Matassa, born September 20, 1933, in Casalattico, Italy. Died November 30, 2024, in Leamington, Ontario.
Beloved husband (Mary), father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, brother, uncle, friend.
Gary Balkwill
July 19, 1939 – December 2, 2024
Gary Balkwill passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Monday, December 2, 2024 at Erie Shores Hospice at the age of 85 years.
Loving husband of 61 years to Dorothy Balkwill (nee Talbot). Dear father of Corey (Margaret) Balkwill and Lance (Ann) Balkwill.
Special grandpa of Christopher (Nicole), Jamie (Erika), Connor and Kate. Brother of Gail Sedlak, Bill (Corliss) Balkwill, late Carol Vincent and Brenda (Roy) Balkwill. Brother-in-law of the late Mary Malott and husband Harley Malott. Predeceased by his parents Richard and Annie Balkwill (nee Abbott). Gary will be remembered by his nieces, nephews and extended family.
Gary retired in 1993 after 30 years of service, working for Ontario Hydro. In his retirement he enjoyed travelling, bird watching and woodworking.
In following Gary’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service was held.
If you wish, memorial donations would be appreciated to Erie Shores Hospice,197 Talbot Street West, Suite 210, Leamington, ON, N8H 1N8 or to the charity of your choice.
Condolences and special memories can be shared with the family at www.kendrickfuneralhome.com
Mary “Betty” Kimball
Mary “Betty” Kimball (nee Mosey), 95 years, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at the Sun Parlor Home, Leamington.
Predeceased by her husband Grant (2005). Loving mother of Kevin (Suzette), Keith (Debbie), Curtis (Judy) and the late Lisa Kimball (2023).
Cherished grandmother to 10 grandchildren and 14 greatgrandchildren. Predeceased by parents Archie and Orpha (nee Robinson) Mosey and all her siblings, Lyle, Muriel, Francis and Tom. Betty will be missed by her many nieces and nephews.
Betty enjoyed working with her husband on the farm, and still enjoyed watching the comings and go-ings on the farm after his passing. Betty always had coffee, pop, juice and cookies ready for the boys at break time.
Betty was a dedicated United Church member, her faith was very important to her. She also loved and cherished the visits from her grandchildren.
Special thanks to the staff of Sun Parlor Home for the outstanding care she received during her short stay.
As per Betty’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will take place at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Kendrick Funeral Home, Wheatley.
Donations in memory of Betty may be made by cheque payable to the Sun Parlor Home Auxiliary (175 Talbot St. E., Leamington, ON, N8H 1L9).
Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.kendrickfuneralhome.com
Proof of obituary to run
ANNUAL LIGHTS OF LIFE CEREMONY HELD AT ERIE SHORES
December 11, 2024 Southpoint Sun
The annual Lights of Life ceremony was held on Wednesday, December 4 at Erie Shores HealthCare in Leamington. Reverend Sylvia Swiatoschik (right) led the ceremony which included a reading from Spiritual Care Provider Nicholae Codrea (left), music by Reverend Elise Chambers (middle) and a smudging ceremony and drum from Carrie Ann Peters and Caldwell First Nation. Several families gathered to honour their loved ones lost in the past year and to light a candle in remembrance. The ceremony culminated in the lighting of the tree. SUN photo
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca Thanks.
Proof of obituary to run
December 11, 2024
Southpoint Sun
$200 plus $26 HST = $226
Proof of obituary to run
Gerald Clare Congdon
December 11, 2024 Southpoint Sun $200 plus $26 HST = $226
December 6, 1936 – December 4, 2024
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Gerald Clare Congdon, husband of Betty for 68 years, at Erie Shores Hospice.
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca
Thanks.
Father of Luann Colasanti and husband Terry. Grandfather to Ashley Colasanti, Lee Colasanti and wife Adriana, Candace Colasanti and Brendan Dills, and Tyson Colasanti. Greatgrandfather to Rowan Furtado, Sophia and Liam Colasanti, and Alana Colasanti. Predeceased by father Francis Gerald Congdon, mother Rheta (nee Dawson) Congdon, sister Phyllis (nee Congdon) Coneybeare and husband Verne, sister Inez (nee Congdon) Simon and husband Murray. Survived by brother Roger Congdon and wife Gloria, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Clare enjoyed 38 years (1954-1992) working at Chrysler Canada. He was a Licensed Steam Pipe Fitter. He worked from a Line Spot Welder to Supervisor over all skilled trades. Arrangements entrusted to Reid Funeral Home, Leamington (519-326-2631).
In keeping with Clare’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Clare’s Life will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations directed to Erie Shores Hospice or the Church of the Living Word in Woodslee are greatly appreciated by the family.
Online condolences may be shared at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Many parade-goers near the four corners of Wheatley Saturday night, December 7, enjoyed the added bonus of this very well lit home located at 14 Elm Street, beside the vacant lot. Homeowner Ivan Noor says he keeps adding a few more lights every year. Deanna Bertrand photo
The Wheatley Swans had a great time November 30 at Dara Farm Sanctuary, just east of Wheatley. A donation of $4,000.00 was made to help keep the “folks”, as they are affectionately called by proprietors Matt and Marco, warm and fed for the winter. The sanctuary is home to pigs, goats, ducks, cats, turkeys and more – all rescues. They are at capacity now and help – hay, produce, blankets, towels – is greatly appreciated.
Photo submitted
SWANS DONATE TO FARM
Community Calendar
MONDAY, JANUARY 6
SOUTH POINT UKELELE GROUP (SPUG) is starting up again on Monday nights from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. starting Mon. Jan. 6 at St. John’s Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. SPUG is for anyone who loves playing the ukulele. $5 per session, proceeds go to the church kitchen. More info: Lionel Knights 519-398-9645. ONGOING
HURON FARMWORKERS MINISTRY takes place Thursday afternoons at 4:00 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Workers can access a simple meal, clothing, food items, spiritual care and employment/immigration information. The program is in need of used or new bicycles to assist workers with transportation. Contact Deacon Deborah Wilson-Safa at 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.
IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, THAT’S YOUR BUSINESS If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous: 519-999-1234.
SOUTH ESSEX COMMUNITY COUNCIL - ADULT DAY PROGRAM - Join us at Faith Mennonite for a day service providing social, recreational and personal support to clients and respite. For more information or to register, call SECC at 519-3268629 or visit our website at secc.on.ca.
p.m. Everyone welcome.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25
CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE at St. John The Evangelist Church, 60 Erie St. N. Leamington, 11:00 a.m. Dinner to follow. Everyone welcome.
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. Fall dates are Nov. 20, Dec. 4 & 18. 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.
kingsvillearchives@gmail.com
Leamington’s Past courtesy of the C. Scott Holland Collection
Hap’s Appliances, another popular business that anchored downtown Leamington post-WWII. And although its sign is in mid-turn, next door was the facilities of CJSP which in 1967 became CHYR. At the same
December 1994 - Wheatley Area Public School grade 6 class members recently received a short course instructed with the co-operation of Community Services Officer Laurie Dowthwaite, O.P.P. Chatham Detachment. From left to right, Jocelyn Heyens, Courtney Baldwin and Richie Baptista display their V.I.P.
Bob McCracken made local impact
By C. Scott Holland
The late Bob McCracken made an impact on several organizations as well as extending his own knowledge of early pioneer life to younger generations. His impact on area life is still felt, despite having been gone for over two years.
Bob was an integral member of the Essex County Steam Engine Club and for nearly 40 years, served as an executive member of the Leamington and Mersea Historical Society. He served as the society’s president for 15 years and past-president for many years afterward as well as being a caretaker of the society’s museum on Essex Rd. 14.
Many will remember him for his work in keeping memories alive of pioneer days with his rope-making machine and apple cider press — both of which he often took and displayed at schools and various events throughout the county.
While with the society, Bob was an integral part of creating and forming the society’s annual Heritage Awards and ceremonies, which took place annually for 22 years until the COVID crisis struck in 2020.
One of his most important discoveries were the remains of the shipwreck S.S. Nessen.
McCracken came across some of the shipwreck’s pieces while sifting the mounds of dirt that had been dredged from Pigeon Bay when the Leamington Marina was created in 1983-84. He salvaged the ship’s pieces which were moved to his Staples farm.
After retiring from working at the Union Water System, Bob began crafting and assembling several stagecoaches and a prairie schooner. He built three of them and often took them to special events and fairs throughout the region. They were christened “McCracken Stagecoach Lines” and were fine replicas of the 19th century vehicles that many pioneers in
Canada and the United States used to travel westward. His modern fabrication of the stagecoaches could be pulled by several horses.
McCracken’s craftmanship extended to the society’s annual Heritage Awards which he designed and fashioned out of several types of lumber including juniper, white oak, soft and hard maple, spruce, walnut, sassafras, cherrywood, white ash and red oak all of which were plentiful in southwestern Ontario. The unique handcrafted awards featured a mortise and tenon wood frame and walnut pegs in the corners which represented early timber frame barns used in Canada for over 100 years. Each award also contained a piece of railroad – streetcar track – to signify railroading that was a vital part of Leamington and Mersea’s development.
The hours of labour that Bob spent as a volunteer, combined with his love of local history, have not been forgotten.
Along with Dorothy St. John, he helped created a history book on Blytheswood, Staples and Comber, which can be found at the Leamington Public Library.
A lifetime of raising awareness of local pioneer life was recognized by the Town of Leamington when he received its distinguished Volunteer of Year Award about 15 years ago.
There is no doubt our local history and development has been instilled in many people who have heard and seen McCracken’s skills and storytelling.
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.
Photo courtesy of the Kingsville Archives
shirts with Mrs. Getty and Constable Dowthwaite.
Members of the Kingsville District High School Library Club, December 1978. Left to right: Dave Benson, Chuck Gascoyne, Karen Bailey and Ron Heyboer.
In 1977 the west side of Erie St. N. looked like this. The main store was the Leamington Sporting Goods store which was operated for over 50 years by the Bodle family. Just to its north was
location was the original Essex Cable TV studio and offices.
Former Leamington and Mersea Historical Society president and executive member
Bob McCracken standing in front of the covered wagon he built. McCracken’s interest in local pioneer history extended to visiting schools and special events with his stagecoaches and covered wagon, as well as a pioneer apple press and rope maker.
Bob McCracken (left) presented then Caldwell Chief Louise Hillier (right) with a Leamington and Mersea Historical Society Heritage Award in 2013.
- 19 Melrose Ave., Leamington. 2 bedroom apartment, 2nd floor. Available January 1st. Dishwasher, stove, fridge and in-unit washer and dryer included. Call 519-325-8220. oc30-tf
JJ STITCHNG - Sewing and Alterations. Call Jean at 519968-2261 in Leamington. no27-de11
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. 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
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
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CROSSWORD PUZZLE
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Your pioneering spirit is in full swing this week, Aries. Embrace new challenges and don’t hesitate to get out front and take the lead. You just might inspire others with your confidence.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Make finances a priority this week, Taurus. A bit of budgeting could ease some of the financial stress that has been affecting you lately. Indulge in a small luxury as a reward for hard work.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Conversations could be interesting this week, Gemini. You’re curious about what others do when they are home behind closed doors. Don’t pry too much.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, nurture your relationships this week, particularly if work has garnered most of your attention of late. Pay attention to your own needs, too, and enjoy some relaxation.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Employ your natural charisma to forge new connections and network at upcoming events, Leo. You are good at sharing ideas and expressing yourself with confidence.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Tackle one job at a time and focus on what is important to get done this week, Virgo. It can be easy to get side-tracked by side projects. Or that might be your way to procrastinate.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, surround yourself with positive influences this week. You want others supporting you at every turn while you take on an important project that comes up.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Use your intense focus and attention to detail to delve into projects that require those specific skills, Scorpio. In fact, someone may ask you to work on a project for these traits alone.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Embrace the unknown this week. Let yourself get led off in different directions from those you normally travel, Sagittarius. Who knows what you may find along the way?
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Revisit your goals and make a plan for the future, Capricorn. Remember to take the people closest to you into consideration. Do not trample them in the process of getting ahead.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, collaborate with like-minded individuals who are ready to think outside the box. It is amazing what you can accomplish when you multiply your power.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
You might need to warm up before the creative energy starts to flow, Pisces. Don’t worry, once you have the right inspiration, things will begin moving at a rapid pace.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
DECEMBER 8 - Nicki Minaj, Rapper (42)
DECEMBER 9 - Donny Osmond, Singer (67)
DECEMBER 10 - Kenneth Branagh, Director (64)
DECEMBER 11 - Hailee Steinfeld, Actress (28)
DECEMBER 12 - Ed Oliver, Athlete (27)
DECEMBER 13 - Taylor Swift, Singer (35)
DECEMBER 14 Vanessa Hudgens, Actress (36)
Flyers’ Cook commits to UMass
For the second time this season, a Leamington Flyer has announced their commitment to playing NCAA Division I hockey.
Forward Brody Cook has selected the University of Massachusetts to continue his academic and athletic career.
“I’m grateful for the support of the Leamington Flyers organization, coaches and fans for supporting me so far this season,” Cook comments. “It has been my goal to commit and play Division I hockey. They have been a big part of my development as a player and I’m excited to take the next steps in my hockey journey.”
A Birmingham, Michigan native, Cook has had an outstanding rookie season for Leamington, sitting third in team scoring with 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points in 32 games.
Those totals are also enough to put him sixth in OJHL rookie scoring.
“This is a great accomplishment for Brody and his family,” Flyers head coach Dale Mitchell says. “He is committing to a great school and hockey program. Brody knows the work doesn’t stop and we are going to be here to continue his progress to be ready for the NCAA.”
The University of Massachusetts Minutemen play in the Hockey East Conference and have a storied history that goes back to the program’s first season in 1908.
The program has made five NCAA tournament appearances, including last season.
UMass has also made the Frozen Four twice and won the NCAA D1 men’s hockey championship in 2021.
With this announcement, Cook now joins the list of 10 Leamington Flyers who have made NCAA commitments in the last five seasons.
shall,
U10 Trail Blazers collect 336 coats
The U10A Talbot Trail hockey team has proven that teamwork goes beyond the rink this season.
With the community’s support and the inspiration of their head coach Greg Liebrock, these young athletes organized a heartwarming Coats for Kids fundraiser on November 30, collecting an impressive 336 winter coats, along with bags of hats, scarves, and mittens for children in need.
Coach Liebrock spearheaded the initiative with a clear vision: to teach his 18 nine-year-olds that hockey is about more than just playing the game; it’s also about learning life lessons and giving back.
“Our kids are very fortunate to
play a sport like hockey,” he said. “If we teach them about generosity and community at a young age, they’re more likely to carry it into adulthood.”
To motivate the team, Greg set an ambitious goal of collecting 300 coats, encouraging the kids to reach out to their grandparents, aunts, uncles and neighbors to maximize donations.
As an added incentive, he promised the team a chance to watch a Windsor Spitfires game in a suite if they hit their goal.
Not only did they meet the target, but they surpassed it,
bringing in a total of 336 coats, plus a variety of warm accessories.
The fundraiser culminated in a special drop-off event at Nature Fresh Recreational Centre, then handed over the donations to South Essex Community Council the following day.
Mark Wybenga from SECC expressed heartfelt thanks to the team and everyone who contributed, noting the incredible impact these donations will have on local families during the cold months ahead.
The Talbot Trail Blazers U10 hockey team poses with the 336 coats they collected for the Coats for Kids campaign. In the back row, from left, are Maverick Larade, Xavier Barrette, Jaxon Perkins, Lachlan O’Reilley, Alec Whittal, Blake Finn, Angus McLeod, Ryan Bailey, Nolan Agueda, Liam Hall. In the front are Hudson Obeid, Grady Grubb, Mack Mar-
Mason Lalonde, Ethan Liebrock, Brett Primeau, Denver Charette.
Photo submitted
BRODY COOK
Vandenberg gets fifth shutout; Flyers test trade market
By C. Scott Holland
It was a rather strange week for fans of the Leamington Flyers as the team made a couple of moves, had a postponed home game and a 3-0 win in Georgetown.
The Thursday, December 5 game against the second-place Collingwood Blues was postponed when heavy snowfall in the Collingwood area made travel hazardous for the Blues.
Meanwhile, the Flyers made some roster moves, trading Gus Rabe to Smiths Falls (CCHL Jr. A).
The 18-year-old Wisconsin native appeared in 24 games this season.
They also traded 18-year-old forward Mason Landry to the Trenton Golden Hawks (East conference OJHL). Landry had played in 32 games for the Flyers this season.
In a separate deal, the Flyers acquired forward Ethan Walker, a 5’11”, 175-pound, 19-year-old from the Lindsay Muskies. Walker is in his third season of OJHL play and spent the previous two with Burlington before joining Lindsay at the start of this campaign.
Walker is having his best season, having played in 24 games while scoring 14 goals with 13 assists for 27 points and 16 penalty minutes. Five of his tallies have come on powerplays. He’s wearing #27.
On Saturday night in Georgetown, the Flyers returned to action and it was a game that featured nearly everything. Both goalies, Michael Newlove (Georgetown) and Marcus Vandenberg (Leamington), matched each other save for save over 40 minutes.
From the opening faceoff, it was like a fierce playoff. The opening period featured crazy puck bounce stoppages, offsides galore and very little flow to the game.
The third period was the charm for the Flyers as their defense continued to thwart the Raiders’ scoring chances. They started the third period on a powerplay.
Flyers’ newcomer Ethan Walker won a faceoff before Colton Smith and Brody Cook exchanged passes. Smith launched a screen shot from the top of the slot which hit the
ank n otes
ARE ACCEPTED AT ANY EVENT Volunteers needed! $5 to join ~ all welcome!
MONARCH CAFÉSONGS & STORIES IN THE ROUND
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13
Doors open at 6:30 pm. Show 7:00 pm. 4 performers$15 or advance VIP with charcuterie $20. AUDITIONS
MONDAY, DECEMBER 16
4:00 - 7:00 PM - CHEESY VALENTINE BY BARRY BERGEN, DIRECTED BY LEANNE HAYES - a fun, romantic comedy, radio style ~ ONE ACT PLAY.
DALE’S FRIDAY COFFEE HOUSE
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Show at 7:00 p.m. - pass the hat.
CHRISTMAS WITH PAVLO A TRUE WORLD MUSIC ARTIST
MONDAY DECEMBER 23 @ 7:00 PM
Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Tickets $40 + HST
HALFWAY THERE
JANUARY 17, 18, 24, 25 @ 7:30 PM
JANUARY 19 & 26 @ 2:30 PM By Norm Foster. Directed by Dean Valentino. Tickets $25 +hst - Now on Sale!
target 29 seconds into the period.
Midway through the third, while on another powerplay, Ethan Tatomir and Jonas Schmidt hooked up with Ryland Cunningham whose blast from the left point sailed through a maze of players and eluded Newlove for a 2-0 Flyers’ lead.
With just over three minutes left in the contest, Georgetown lifted Newlove for an extra-attacker. The Raiders were deep in the Flyers end and lost puck control along the right boards. Ethan Walker and Brody Cook battled to gain control before Colton Smith banked the rubber off the boards and into the vacated Georgetown net to complete the scoring.
For the remaining two and a half minutes the Flyers limited Georgetown’s chances and helped goalie Marcus Vandenberg acquire his fifth shutout of the season, making 29 saves.
Flyers’ forward Colton Smith leads the OJHL in scoring with 57 points and 34 goals. As well, he leads with 14 powerplay
goals and is tied for first with six game-winning goals.
Flyers goalie Michael Vandenberg has the top goals against average
with a 1.32 and is tied for the most shutouts with five. He is tied with two others for the most victories with 14.
The Flyers next home
game is Thursday, December 12 versus the Buffalo Jr. Sabres at 7:10 p.m. It will be the Toys For Tots night.
Golden Years mini golf report
There were 59 golfers who played 36 holes of mini golf at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens on Thursday, December 5. They recorded an outstanding 82 holes in one.
Leading the way with five aces was Keith Hopper, followed by Bill Mayville, Andy Orsini and Bob Springthorpe with 4.
Three aces each were scored by Barb Fick, Joanne Law, Nancy Springthorpe, Linda Lavender and Debbie Clinton.
Two aces were recorded by Steve Acott, Patty Hopper, Joel, Randy Nash, Lloyd Symons, Penny McMurphy, Larry Hillman, Laurie Hylton, Kathy Bechard, Betty McManus, Rosemary Heisler, Heather James, Tom Bondy, Jack Bostin, Walter Balsam and Bill Taylor.
Concierge Level.
Scoring one ace were Monique Benfield, Barb Haas, Carol Hylton, Nick Penzari, Julia Kos, Bruce Cooper, Armand Decaluwe, Bill Edwards, Jim James, David Tonks, Ron Fick, Theresa Decaluwe, Karen Ann Doucet, Erle Nash, Mike Mousseau, Ray Foster and MaryAnn
Tom Bondy, Debbie Clinton and Andy Orsini (2).
Scoring 39 Bill Mayville, Randy Nash, Lloyd Symons, Laurie Hylton, David Tonks, Theresa Decaluwe, Keith Hopper, Rosemary Heisler and Debbie Clinton.
Sherman.
Top score over 18 holes was by Keith Hopper with 34, followed by Barb Fick with 37.
Recording 38 were Barb Haas, Jack Bostin,
Leading the way over 36 holes with 73 was Keith Hopper. Andy Orsini scored 76, Barb Fick and Debbie Clinton 77, Barb Haas 78, and Randy Nash and Lloyd Symons 79. First place went to Team 7 (Lloyd Symons, Penny McMurphy, Armand Decaluwe) with 245, second place was Team 18 (Debbie Clinton, Walter Balsam, Bill Taylor, Carolyn Dufour) with 246, and third place was Team 2 (Steve Acott, Barb Haas, Constance Budd, Carol Hylton) with 247. Fun, laughs and also golf will continue on Thursday, December 12 at 10:30 a.m.
U15 Blazers win two
The Talbot Trail Blazers U15 hockey team played a trio of hockey games this past week.
On Thursday night, December 5 in Wheatley, the Blazers faced the Tecumseh Eagles. A couple minutes into this game, Nash Fuerth sent the puck back to the point and Nolan Jones fired his wrist shot through the crowd to get on the board.
The Blazers were flat in this contest, dragging their feet and chasing the play throughout the game, eventually giving up the next plus an empty netter in a disappointing 3-1 defeat.
On Friday, the squad travelled to Kingsville to face off against a tough Erie North Shore squad. Three minutes in, Brayden Foster intercepted a clearing pass and stepped in firing his snapper low glove to open the scoring. ENS scored the next two to lead 2-1.
With 11:53 left in the second, Foster slipped a pass to the slot to Nash Fuerth who shot on goal. Foster circled the net and found the rebound, banging it in to even the score.
In the third, Isaiah Georges sent the puck up to centre where Foster tipped it to Fuerth, who
stepped over the line and wired his snapshot past the goalie. Nathan Mariuz then pounced on a loose puck and pounded it in to complete the 4-2 win. Kevin Ondic earned the victory in net.
On Sunday, the Blazers travelled to Chatham to face off against another tough team, the Kent Cobras.
In a back-and-forth spirited affair, the Cobras finally opened the scoring in the middle frame. Three minutes later, Mariuz stepped out of the box as his penalty expired and Fuerth saw him, firing a pass to send him in alone where he made a nifty move and backhanded his shot in to tie the game.
With a little over three minutes to play, the puck came back to Connor Rumble at the point and he ripped his shot on net where Austin Goudie found and slapped in the rebound.
Mariuz then blocked a Cobras shot with it deflecting to Lucas O’Neil, who calmly fired it the length of the ice into an empty net to seal the deal. Ondic in net made many timely saves to help his team to the hard fought 3-1 win.
Sharks Battle for third place with win/loss
By Greg Coulter
The Wheatley Omstead Sharks continue to impress at home while going unrewarded on the road, despite icing a solid effort.
On Wednesday, December 4, the visiting Amherstburg Admirals jumped to a first minute 1-0 lead and held that through the first 20 minutes, despite a territorial advantage by the home team. With numerous opportunities, highlighted by several
breakaways, the Sharks settled for a 2-1 lead after 40.
Vito Alfano (early and then again in the last minute) gave the Sharks a 2-1 cushion entering the third.
Rookie Grant Symons blasted a powerplay marker early in the third, only to see the visitors claw back five minutes later to narrow it to 3-2.
The Sharks would continue to press, but it took an empty net tally by Stefan Jacobs to secure the win at 4-2.
With Jaxon Drysdale solid when called upon in net, the Sharks maintained a 42-23 shot advantage.
“We had a solid effort tonight, the score was not indicative of the way we played” said Coach Josh Carnevale.
Saturday in Mooretown, in a third-place showdown, the Sharks carried much of the play but fell behind 4-1 after two, on a single snipe by Stefan Jacobs.
A penalty parade by both teams through the
Provincial Junior Hockey League West Stobbs Standings
last half of the game took away any flow, causing lots of line shuffling.
Jacobs and Colton Elwood narrowed the gap to one before Mooretown special teams added a late insurance marker for a 5-3 win.
The Sharks battled through eight minor infractions in the last 10 minutes while still maintaining a 44-36 shot advantage. Rookie netminder Ethan Davis gave a solid effort between the pipes.
“Tough to get any flow, and that is one team that can take advantage of their opportunities,” said Carnevale.
Tonight (Wednesday, December 11) the Sharks host Blenheim at 7:30 for their last home game until January 8, as they hit the road for four away battles to close out the year.
Defenceman Mitchell Hickson found himself all alone in one of more than half dozen team breakaways against Amherstburg last week at home. He narrowly missed a top shelf marker as the puck barely got the top of the goalies blocker. Despite the miss, the Sharks gained a 4-2 victory. Greg Coulter photo
Wheatley Friendship Club FYI
By Bonnie Dawson
There was a large turnout for Bingo at the Wheatley & District Friendship Club on December 4. Thanks to Rose Hatt for supplying the delicious Christmas goodies for the refreshment.
The Bingo winners were Jean Church, Marg Franklin, Pat Matier, Doreen Armstrong, Barb Siddall, Dianne Lenarduzzi, Helen Clark, Carol Mady, Ellen Omstead, Karen Deyell, Linda Niehus, Ruth Ann Snively Earlene Gould and Pat Churchill. Thanks to Debbie Ottley and Pauline Sample for running the Bingo.
Please check the blackboard in the hall for the holiday schedules.
The last day for the Water Colour Painting Class was December 6. It will resume in April.
The last day of quilting and sewing for the holidays is December 19.
The quilters return January 6 and the sewers return January 9.
The next Bingo will be on Wednesday, December 18 at 1:00 for $2. It will be presented by Heidi Omstead of South Essex Community Council.
Winners of the 50/50 draws were Pat Matier and Ruth Ann Snively.
MONDAYS
There will be no Euchre on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve, and no Pepper on January 2.
The club will be closed December 25 to 27 and December 30 to January 2.
To book an appointment with the foot nurse Jessica Rodzik-Couto call 519-9907309. As of January 1, the cost will be $35.
The Friendship Club membership is $10. With the start of the New Year, it’s time to start thinking of renewing your membership.
Until next time…
LDSS winter sports kick off
By Emery Stapleton Leamington District
Secondary School’s winter sports season has officially begun.
The senior girls volleyball team played their first game on Tuesday, December 3 against their cross-town rivals, Cardinal Carter. The girls had evident nerves at the beginning of the match, with CC getting off to a quick lead in the first set. The Lions then went on a serving run which effectively got their legs under them. From there, the serving remained a reliable constant, as they only missed two in the set. Leamington won the next set easily with strong out of system and backrow hitting. Unfortunately, they couldn’t sweep the third set, but nevertheless won the match.
Next, on Thursday, December 5, the Lions played their first home game against the other CC, Catholic Central.
Having gotten their jitters out in the first game, they easily delivered a crushing blow, winning three sets to none.
Great fan support energized the team as they kept Catholic Central under 15 points in each set.
The girls hope to con-
TEAM PHOTOS
• Submit team photos any time during the season
• Be sure to include team name and names of players/coaches
• Jpegs are preferred
• Cell phone photos are fine, please send as large as possible (high resolution)
tinue their winning streak in their two games next week.
The junior girls volleyball team followed suit, destroying both Cardinal Carter and Catholic Central 3-0. Their new starting setter, freshman Malack Bitar, led the way and benefitted from consistent passing. The Lions’ service game was in top form, highlighted by several aces from the right arm of Abbey Friesen.
The games were secured by consistently strong hitting from Marissa Wiebe and a solid wall at the net enforced by Tamara Neufeld.
Finally, on Friday, December 6, the team traveled to Herman where they competed in the annual invitational tournament.
The girls came out of pool play in second and then flew through the playoffs.
Hard work from all the athletes led to the second consecutive year of a Lions victory in this tournament for the junior girls. All in all, the girls have made a strong showing and have effectively painted a target on their backs for the upcoming matches as a difficult team to beat.
The senior boys basketball team opened their season at home with a match against Cardinal Carter. The comfort of playing in their own gym was enough to ensure the win. The game, however, was close, ending with only a seven-point difference — 46-39 Leamington.
On Thursday, December 5, the boys traveled to Kingsville to play Erie Migration. Despite Abdullatif Adam Yahya’s leadership in putting up 14, the Lions lost 63-38. The team will be travelling to Windsor for their next game against the undefeated Massey.
The junior boys basketball team started their season out strong against Cardinal Carter on December 3. Led by Pancho Heinrichs with 15 points, they overwhelmed the Cougar’s defense. The entire squad finished well at the basket throughout, creating an insurmountable lead which finished with a 66-25 victory.
Unfortunately, this win was followed by a loss at the hands of the Erie Migration. The experienced Migration team put on a strong showing which left the Lions on the wrong end of a 76-28 match.
WRITE-UPS
• Send in your game or tournament write-ups by Mondays at 8am
• Please limit your submissions to 150 words
• We recommend having one person responsible for write-ups throughout the season (i.e. team manager or parent)