January 3, 2018

Cougars assist alumni with auction proceeds

By Bryan Jessop

For Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School, the decision to help support a former student in need was a piece of cake.

In response to a serious skiing accident in Michigan that left Cougar alumnus Shawn Florence paralyzed from the waist down, the local high school decided to offer the proceeds from its annual Christmas Cake Auction to help offset the costs of U.S. medical bills. The sixth annual auction of its kind took place in Cardinal Carter’s auditorium Thursday, Dec. 21 and once complete, generated an even $1,000 in support of the Florence family.

The donation was accepted by Shawn’s younger brother Scott Florence, also a Cardinal Carter graduate. Scott attended the auction along with his mother Rosemary Cobby and girlfriend Lydia Sandersen and via a live Wifi Internet connection, was greeted along with current staff and students by his brother Shawn from Parkwood Institute in London.

Shawn is currently undergoing treatment at Parkwood after being rushed to St. Joseph’s Mercy Oakland Hospital in Pontiac, Mich. following a Sunday, Nov. 26 skiing accident at Pine Knob Ski Resort. After falling at high speed and crashing into a fence at the facility, Shawn suffered Grade A fractures to the T7 and T8 vertebrae, 13 broken ribs, a severed spinal cord and two collapsed lungs. Shawn was with his girlfriend during the skiing trip and about a week after receiving surgery at St. Joseph’s Mercy was transported briefly to Windsor Regional Hospital on Ouel-

— Scott Florence “

The support from the community has been awesome. It means a lot to us.

In addition to a massive medical bill from the Michigan hospital, the Florence family is also facing the expenses of accommodating Shawn’s wheelchair accessibility needs for transportation and housing. About

two weeks prior to Cardinal Carter’s most recent Christmas Cake Auction, Shawn’s family set up a Go Fund Me page accessible to the public at www. gofundme.com/ gofundshawn. By the time the family received the donation from Cardinal Carter, a sum of nearly 400 donations from the web page brought the total raised to about $45,000 — about 30 per cent of the $150,000 goal.

“The support from the community has been awesome,” said 21-year-old Scott, who played Cougars

hockey before joining the Junior C Wheatley Sharks and then the Junior B Leamington Flyers. “It means a lot to us. This donation ($1,000 from Cardinal Carter) and others will really help out a lot with expenses. The response has been just amazing.”

For the past six years, Cardinal Carter’s student council has organized a live, charitable Christmas Cake Auction where its members either bake their own festive holiday creations or set out to arrange a cake donation from a local business. Student council began preparing for the event in early December and this year, auctioned off 20 cakes to

various classrooms. Each year, proceeds are directed towards a different charity or community-based cause. The week prior to the event, Cardinal Carter teacher Joanne Bateman contacted the Florence family to inform them that they would receive this year’s Christmas Cake Auction funds and to invite them to the event.

Donations in support of the local family can be made by visiting the GoFundMe page and clicking on the “Donate Now” bar on the left side of the main page.

“Whatever amount people are able to donate, we’re happy with that,” said Scott.

“A lot of people have been very generous.”

lette Avenue before being sent to Parkwood in London.

Via a live Internet feed, former Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School alumnus Shawn Florence communicates with his mother Rosemary Cobby, Lydia Sandersen and his brother Scott Florence at the school following its annual Christmas cake auction Thursday, Dec. 21. This year’s proceeds of an even $1,000 were donated to the Florence family in support of Shawn, who was partially paralyzed from a skiing accident in Michigan in late November. The Florence family has also started a Go Fund Me Page for Shawn to help offset the expenses of U.S. medical bills and expenses back home involved with accommodating Shawn’s transportation and housing accessibility needs.

(SUN Photo)

January

LDMH welcomes first baby of the New Year! Little Isla Marguerite Michaud arrived at Leamington District Memorial Hospital on Monday, January 2, 2017, at 12:45 p.m., weighing 8 lbs. 2 oz. Just prior to her debut, her mom Jennifer, 26, arrived at the hospital by ambulance, ready to deliver the hospital’s first baby of the New Year.

Chatham-Kent’s New Year’s baby

The first baby born at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance was a baby girl weighing in at seven pounds, six ounces. The proud parents of baby Winter Gray Malott are Jessica and Codie Malott of Chatham. Winter Gray was born on New Year’s Day, Sunday, January 1 at 3:27 p.m.

Hogs For Hospice wins new award

It may be nearly seven months away, but Essex County’s premier motorcycle event has already earned accolades for its 2017 edition. A group of eight representatives from the Hogs For Hospice board of directors made the trip up Highway 401 to set up a booth for the second annual charitable event and came home with a new award. The organization’s display — a four-month process with concept, design, print and assembly — didn’t fit into any of the previously designated award categories for the annual North American International Motorcycle Supershow. The Toronto-based attraction’s organizers, however, were so impressed with the Hogs For Hospice booth that they created a new award specifically for it, dubbed the Show Producer’s Choice for Best Charity Ride Booth Display.

Local family launches clothing drive

The Christmas season is over, but the giving spirit is still alive and well in Leamington. The family of Mariete Demelo-Grilo, her husband Paulo Grilo and their three children have initiated a community-wide winter clothing collection for the area’s underprivileged families struggling to cope with chilly temperatures.

NHL All Star helmet designed in Leamington

From Mustangs to masks, Mark DiMilo knows what’s involved in a good paint job. The Leamington resident both created and painted the design on one of the eight goaltender masks used for the 2017 National Hockey League Coors Light All-Star Skills Competition held Saturday, Jan. 28 and the Honda All-Star Game the following day.

Lions Club Members Receive Long Service Awards

Four members of the Wheatley Lions Club recently received service awards at a club meeting. These gentlemen have 155 years of combined service to the Lions Club and their community. What a great accomplishment! Lion Murray Setterington (40 years), Lion Bruce Jackson (40 years), Lion George Vary (40 years), and Lion Dan Dalgleish (35 years) received their awards from the Club President Bob Springthorpe and 2nd Vice District Governor Lion Mary Mahovlich. 2017 is Lions Clubs Centennial Year. They were founded in Chicago in 1917 by businessman Melvin Jones.

February

Vigil sends local message of peace

Regardless of political, religious or cultural affiliation, organizers of a public gathering and march encouraged the community to rally and give peace a chance. Organizers of the Community Peace Vigil invited all members of the Leamington area and beyond to attend the demonstration on Wednesday, Feb. 1 at St. John Anglican Church. From there, participants made the short march to the Leamington municipal office at 111 Erie St. North.

Carbon tax doubles greenhouse gas bills: operators demanding answers from Wynne

A group of Leamington and surrounding-area greenhouse growers are seeking answers on the Ontario

2017 Year In Review

A look back at the news and events of 2017

government’s new ‘carbon tax’ initiative. About a dozen greenhouse operators met earlier this month to come up with a plan to solicit explanations from the provincial Liberals as to why Cap and Trade is good for their businesses and how they are expected to cope. Jamie Diniro, owner of Leamington-based Diniro Farms, noted that his natural gas bill for the month of December, 2016 was roughly $19,000. With the Cap and Trade carbon tax coming into effect starting with the new year, his bill for January, 2017 more than doubled to $41,000.

Strike is over!

Essex County libraries to open Thursday

After a 230-day strike, the Essex County libraries are getting ready to re-open. The 14 branches across the system, including the Leamington library, will be open to the public this Thursday after the nearly eight-month strike concluded late last week. Workers actually went back to their jobs Tuesday, spending two days clearing up logistical matters and other issues that may have arisen during the strike.

Former Kingsville fire chief faces additional charges

The Essex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Major Crime Unit has charged former Kingsville Fire Chief Robert Kissner with five additional charges of sexual assault. Kissner has been summonsed on the new offences which are alleged to have occurred between 2002 and 2016 involving three adult victims.

March

Local skater medals at Special Olympics World Winter Games

Bailey-Lopes brings home two golds and a silver! For figure skating coach Laurie Horne-Klassen and her Special Olympics athlete Adelina Bailey-Lopes, it was a magical homecoming for the pair. Not only did Adelina win gold in her Level 5 freestyle and Level 4 dance, she also brought home a silver medal following a decision for a group of skaters to compete in an off-ice dance routine.

Leamington hosts national women’s team Ruthven’s Meghan Agosta enjoys competing alongside Team Canada cohorts and visiting family and friends in her old stomping grounds, but has hardly had the chance to do both simultaneously. Until now. From March 24 to 29, Canada’s national women’s hockey team paid a visit to Leamington in preparation for the 2017 IIHF Women’s World Championships, to be hosted by Plymouth, Mich. starting March 31. All players with the team, along with trainers, managers and coaching staff, converged on the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex for four practice sessions and two scrimmage games against the Junior C Lakeshore Canadiens.

High winds cause plenty of problems

High winds gusting to an estimated 100 km/hr caused plenty of problems throughout the region last Wednesday, March 8. Wheatley area residents were without power from about 6 p.m. until just before 11 p.m. There were multiple collisions across the municipality as well as several road closures due to snapped hydro poles and downed power lines and trees. A portion of Hwy 401 westbound near Victoria Road had to be closed for several hours when high winds damaged a hydro pole causing the wires to hang close to the roadway. Due to high winds, a southbound tractor-

trailer on Hwy 40 was forced off the road and rolled over into the ditch. The tractor-trailer sustained extensive damage. The driver was treated and release at the scene.

Fire takes out 125 hectares of marsh habitat at Point Pelee

Point Pelee National Park reopened on Friday morning after a massive fire raged in the marsh area Wednesday, March 29 until Thursday morning. It was estimated that an approximate 125 hectares of marsh land habitat was lost in the fire. The fire was originally thought to be a natural occurrence, but investigators are looking into its origin.

April

LDSS Eco Team wins national award and $25,000 prize!

Going green has earned some green of another sort for Leamington District Secondary School’s Eco Team. During a morning assembly in the school’s gymnasium Tuesday, Apr. 4, the organization announced that it had won the Ontario high school division of the Staples Canada Superpower Your School Contest, presented annually in partnership with Earth Day Canada.

Erie Shores Hospice helps 149 families in first year

One year ago on April 6, 2016 the Erie Shores Hospice campus officially held its ribbon cutting ceremony at the newest location in Leamington. The project received an outpouring of support and went from conception to completion in a little over two years. Over the past year, 149 families have called the $6+ million dollar facility their temporary home.

Unique curling experience at WAPS

An interesting lesson was presented to Wheatley Area Public School students to perhaps inspire them to become ‘rock’ stars. Rocks and Rings made its first-ever journey to WAPS Thursday, Apr. 6, offering an innovative way to teach youths the basics of curling without so much as a sliver of ice or a single regulation curling rock.

CC math scores catch provincial attention

There are virtually countless equations in mathematics, but at a local high school, a major “plus” has become a theme of sorts. Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School was one of seven high schools in Ontario to receive recognition from the Education Quality and Accountability Office for significant improvements made in academic and applied math test scores for Grade 9 students over the previous five years. In 2012, the percentage of Cardinal Carter Grade 9 math students who met or exceeded the provincial standard at the applied level was 21 per cent. By 2016, the rate increased to 66 per cent.

Diversity celebrated at LDSS

Four Grade 10 pupils at the school got together in a combined effort to present the first LDSS Multicultural Celebration, an event highlighting the multitude of ethnic backgrounds found in the educational facility’s hallways and classrooms. Jeressa Penales, Layla Bakaa, Celine Veloria and April Valdez — all Grade 10 students at LDSS — spearheaded a research project initiated across the province by the Ministry of Education in an effort to promote student engagement.

Ken, Chris, Dawn, Derek, Krista, Peyton, Brooklyn and Conor

It's hard to believe a year has gone by. Remembering you is so easy Missing you is so hard. Love you forever.

THE ONTARIO ENERGY BOARD WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU

Essex Powerlines has applied to increase its electricity distribution rates by $0.90 per month. This application may impact your bill for the next 5 years, starting May 1, 2018.

HAVE YOUR SAY AT THE ONTARIO ENERGY BOARD’S COMMUNITY MEETING.

WHEN?

WHERE?

Thursday, January 18, 2018 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.)

OEB Community Meeting

Essex Centre Sports Complex Shaheen Community Room 60 Fairview Avenue West, Essex Refreshments will be served.

REGISTER Registration is not required, but appreciated! Visit oeb.ca/community-meetings for details.

If assistive devices or any other special considerations are needed, please email AODA@oeb.ca.

WHY ATTEND?

• Learn more about your utility’s costs and rate application

• Find out how you can get involved in the OEB’s process

• Provide your comments to the OEB about your utility’s application

WANT TO MAKE A PRESENTATION AT THE MEETING?

If you would like to make a 5-minute presentation at the meeting, please email us at registrar@oeb.ca or call 1-877-632-2727 (toll-free). The OEB file number for this case is EB-2017-0039.

Thanks for the memories, Johnny

The unexpected death of one of my hockey heroes on Boxing Day brought the holidays to a somber pause.

RIB’S RAMBLINGS

Mark Ribble

Johnny Bower was more than just a great goalie, he was by all accounts a true gentleman and ambassador for the game of hockey. It was as sudden as someone could expect for a 93-year-old. He came down with pneumonia a couple days before Christmas and was unable to fight it off. It got me to thinking about players from that era so I started googling different players and came across some really interesting stories about NHL players who had met their demise way too early.

The tragedies that befell Wayne Maki, Bill Masterton and Barry Ashbee are just a few things that happened to some of the great players of the ’60s and ’70s.

I suppose to deal with hockey tragedy you have to go all the way back to Howie Morenz.

Widely considered one of the greatest Montreal Canadiens of all time, Morenz broke his leg in a game in January 1937 and died in hospital two months later after several complications from the injury. This was a mere four years after the Leafs’ Ace Bailey was critically injured in a game against Boston and the infamous Eddie Shore. Bailey’s severe head injury ended his career but launched the first NHL all-star game which was held in his honour. Morenz actually participated in that game and scored a goal. Bailey survived and lived a long life outside of hockey.

Of course any Leafs fan, and many Tragically Hip fans will also recognize the name of Bill Barilko, a solid defenseman for the Maple

Bryan Jessop

Leafs who scored the Cup winning goal in 1951 and then disappeared on a fishing trip three months later. His remains were finally discovered 11 years later, days after the Leafs won their next Stanley Cup in 1962.

So many young hockey players have left us too early.

The Masterton Trophy is awarded each year to a player who displays perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to the game. It was first awarded in 1968 after the death of Minnesota North Star forward Bill Masterton, who suffered severe head injuries during a game in 1968 and died a few hours later. To this day, he’s the only NHL player to die directly from an injury sustained in a game.

The aforementioned Wayne Maki became famous for his stick swinging duel with Ted Green in 1969 where Green sustained a fractured skull. The much hated Maki was shipped to Vancouver for the Canucks’ first season and became a star there. His career was cut very short when he was diagnosed with brain cancer and died at the age of 29.

Of course one of Canada’s most famous names, Tim Horton, also died young during his hockey career. While most associate Horton with his coffee and donuts, Maple Leaf fans remember him as one of the great defencemen of the 1960s. Ironically his last game was against the Leafs in Toronto while playing for Buffalo in 1974. He was driving back to Buffalo after the game when he lost control of his sports car on the QEW and died.

Barry Ashbee was an all-star defenceman with the Philadelphia Flyers who was hit in the face by a puck during the 1974 Stanley Cup finals and was forced to retire when he lost his eye. As if that weren’t enough, he was diagnosed with leukemia three years later and died after two months.

At the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid, the Swedish National team boasted a hot young goaltender named Pelle Lindbergh, who had been drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers.

Lindbergh came into the NHL a couple years later and made an immediate impact. He won the Vezina trophy in 1985 and was the first

goalie to take a water bottle on the ice with him, a practice that’s become commonplace in today’s game. He died in a car accident in November 1985, leaving the Flyers without their all star goaltender and opening the door for Ron Hextall, who came to prominence the following season.

During the Christmas holidays in the mid-1980s, the Swift Current Broncos of the Western Hockey League lost four players when their bus crashed. Future NHL star Joe Sakic narrowly avoided death in that one.

Fast forward to September 11, 2001. Garnet “Ace” Bailey, no relation to the previous one, died aboard Flight 175, the second plane to hit the World Trade Centre that day. This Bailey was a former Red Wing who had won the Stanley Cup twice with the Boston Bruins early in his career. He was scouting for the Los Angeles Kings at the time of his death.

And we can’t forget the Dany Heatley car accident, which took the life of Atlanta Thrashers teammate Dan Snyder in September of 2003. Perhaps the biggest hockey tragedy occurred September 7, 2011, when a Russian airliner crashed on takeoff, killing all players and staff from the KHL’s Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, which included several former NHL stars like Pavol Demitra, Igor Korolev and Canadian head coach Brad McCrimmon.

Suffice to say there have been many tragedies befall NHL players over the years, from lesser-known guys like Bob Gassoff and Steve Chiasson to better known players such as Terry Sawchuk, who was Bower’s goaltending partner with the Leafs for their last Stanley Cup.

I guess you can say Johnny Bower was fortunate and lived a long happy life, compared to so many who didn’t get to finish their careers or met with tragedy at a young age.

So I’ll just tip my hat to the great China Wall and say “Thanks Johnny, for the memories.”

Ya doesn’t have to call me “Junior”

I might have mentioned this in a previous column, but I’ll say it again — one of the most difficult and challenging aspects of journalism is maintaining objectivity.

For me in particular, it’s usually not too difficult when it pertains to the coverage of non-sporting events. Sure, I’m happy to write stories about charitable programs and projects simply because there’s plenty of negativity going on outside the Sun’s and Journal’s respective coverage areas. I, for one, could use a break from the doom and gloom that is constantly being written and broadcast by national and international media sources.

It’s a little tougher when it comes to local junior, high school or minor sports. The story is a LOT easier to write when the Leamington, Wheatley or Southpoint team wins. If I had a nickel for ever time I fought the urge to explain how the Flyers or Sharks had been hosed by a bad call or non call, I’d be able to buy that mint 1973 Pontiac Trans Am Super Duty I’ve always wanted.

Anyway, I know I’m not the only one who takes in a sporting event with a mind more than slightly tainted by bias. I’ve actually caught myself more than a few times. The next time you’re taking in a game — be it at the glass for your kid’s minor hockey game or next month’s Super Bowl from your living room couch — imagine how you’d feel about a call or non call as a fan/supporter of the OTHER team.

A player from “your” team might “tap” the shin pads of an opposing puck carrier in an attempt to slow him down. You might get somewhat verbal about it when the ref calls it a slashing penalty, but when someone from “their” team does precisely the same thing, you might wonder aloud why that reckless, bloodthirsty lumberjack on skates isn’t handed a five minute major and a misconduct. Don’t feel bad. It’s human nature. As the 2018 World Junior Hockey Championships got under way, I

had to admit that Team Canada benefited from some miraculous good fortune in their 4-2 victory against Finland. Boris Katchouk’s first goal wasn’t the prettiest one I’ve ever seen. I actually found myself agreeing with the Finnish coaching staff in their argument to have it waved off. The net was completely dislodged from its moorings before that puck crossed the line. I’d likely feel a bit less sympathetic for the Finns had Katchouk been pushed into the net, but he clearly wasn’t. There was no goaltender interference, but the replay seemed pretty clear — that puck slid into a net that wasn’t standing on the goal line. Canada didn’t play a particularly bad game by any means, but our team certainly cashed in on a few lucky bounces (although the tripping call against Katchouk that led to the Finns’ power play goal was utter B.S.).

I also wondered if Cal Foote got away with one by swatting the puck off his team’s goal line in the third period. I assumed that was grounds for a penalty shot, but I guess the rule states that the defending team’s players (with the exception of the goalie, of course) simply can’t hold or close their hand on the puck while it’s in the crease. It seems the diving act of defensive heroics was legit… give Foote a hand (sorry, couldn’t help it)! Even if his actions had been questionable, the IIHF owes him one. Last year, he couldn’t play for Team Canada because the tournament’s governing body determined that he spent too much time in the U.S. Yeah, I’ve got some choice words for THAT one that I can’t have printed in a family-friendly publication such as this.

Good luck and bad luck aside, there were a few minor things I’ve found bothersome about this year’s World Juniors. For one, the Hockey Canada website for the tournament depicts each team’s logo as its respective national flag with one exception — Canada. Nope, the Great White North is instead brandished shamelessly with the HC emblem. Other media outlets use national flags for ALL team symbols (including Canada), which is the proper way to go about things.

Yes, I know — it’s a minor detail, but it’s one that gets under my skin. Nowadays, Canada’s success in international junior hockey competition comes DESPITE Hockey Canada, not because of it. As far as I’m aware, no other national organization on the globe hampers the development of its junior-age players quite like HC, what with its absurd limitations on the number of 16-year-olds that can play on junior teams. I shudder to think about how many 15- and 16-year-old Canadians with a ton of potential were denied the chance to take a real run at taking their game to the limit because HC said they weren’t old enough. These limitations, in my humble opinion, play no small role in Team Canada’s three medalless performances in the previous five IIHF tourneys.

Speaking of blatant, over the top promotion, I couldn’t help but notice the massive Meridian logos on the sweaters of referees and linesmen. I understand and appreciate that advertising plays a key role in many sporting events, be it as logos on the boards, ice or as shoulder or bar patches on jerseys. European soccer leagues tend to get a bit carried away, but these Meridian crests are nothing short of absurd. Yup, I’m nitpicking again, but good grief, what an eyesore.

I know it’s been a few years now, but I miss the Canada vs. USA game taking place on New Year’s Eve. It was becoming an early festivities tradition of sorts for Canadian New Year’s partygoers and now, sadly, it’s gone. It was so much more enjoyable to watch that game than having to listen to brainless Hollywood socialites babble on and on about nothing between the bland, uninspiring live performances from flavour-of-theweek pop “musicians.”

I guess it was no big deal this year, since Canada blew it in the third period anyway, in similar fashion to the gold/silver medal fiasco against the Russians a few years ago. Here’s to hoping they don’t do anything of the sort in the playoff rounds.

Happy New Year, everyone.

May

Stormy weather causes flooding

Property including yards and driveways were completely submerged in some sections of Point Pelee Drive on the morning of Tuesday, May 2, as rain and lake water sent by heavy winds crashing over the rock wall along Erie’s shoreline found a temporary home that also concealed the road’s entire width in many low-lying areas.

CC students wow audiences with ‘Footloose’ Cardinal Carter Secondary School students were cuttin’ loose last week. They entertained hundreds with their performances of ‘Footloose The Musical’ Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings, May 10-12. Lindsay Longpre served as the director, with the assistance of her production crew, Melissa Ciotoli, Maggy Sonoski, Constance Budd, Geralyn O’Brien, Ted Wigfield, Art Brunet, Matthew Prebeg, along with student choreographers, Dimitria Liovas, Kelsey Augustine, Lauren Piroli and Madison Johns.

LDSS fares well at Science Olympics

For the second time in as many efforts, Leamington District Secondary School students have left a favourable impression on the University of Guelph. The post secondary institution hosted its annual Science Olympics Thursday, May 11, attracting teams from 35 high schools across Southwestern Ontario. The 27 Grade 9 to 12 students representing LDSS took Top 3 honours in five different events at both junior and senior levels amid the 11 competitions that participants were given to choose from.

Leamington hospital goes Hollywood

Erie Shores Health Care temporarily became a place where medicine and movies co-existed side by side. In a partnership with the University of Windsor’s Communication, Media and Film department, the former Leamington District Memorial Hospital became a miniaturized Hollywood, as its Outpatient Surgical Unit became the backdrop for the recording of a short film dubbed Essence of Death. The video, being recorded as an independent study at the University, is being directed by Matthew Sabelli.

Medical cannabis facility coming to Wheatley

A new regulated medical cannabis facility is coming to Chatham-Kent. J.P Mariwell has moved into stage five of seven of the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR) licensing process with Health Canada, and expects to begin construction of their state of the art facility in the fall of 2017.

Leamington welcomes dignitaries from Salvatierra, Mexico

In partnership with the Consulate of Mexico, Leamington hosted a delegation of city and municipal officials for a

tour of the area on Wednesday, May 24 to discuss a “Twin City” designation and potential opportunities for economic growth. Salvatierra is a Mexican city (and municipality) located in the valley of Huatzindeo in the lowlands of the state of Guanajuato. This project demonstrates the close relationship between Mexico and Leamington, since a considerable number of temporary migrant workers who labour in the region are from that country.

June

First Life Walk for Hospice a success

A first-of-its-kind fundraiser in Leamington has revealed just how grateful local families are for the level of care administered by the Erie Shores Hospice. The first annual Life Walk event, presented on behalf of the Erie Shores Health Foundation by marketing coordinator Melissa Hunter, exceeded expectations by raising about $18,000.

LDSS time capsule opened

A trip down memory lane six-and-a-half decades in the making offered one last glimpse at glory days past at Leamington District Secondary School. Less than three weeks before the doors are to close permanently at the current LDSS, the school hosted a public open house for past graduates and their families and friends Saturday, June 10. The highlight of the four-hour event was the extraction of a time capsule buried into the wall immediately west of the school’s main opening. The container was originally concealed under the “Erected AD 1952” stone following the completion of construction prior to the 1953-54 school year.

ENTER TO WIN!

DALE’S FRIDAY COFFEE HOUSE

Mark your calendars! January 26, February 23, March 23, 2018. Offsite ‘Knox Hall’ - Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. S., Leamington.

THE BANK THEATRE & COUNTY CLASSIC CHORALE FUNDRAISER

Monday, January 15 - A-1 Chinese Restaurant, 319 Erie St. S., Leamington. Join us for lunch or dinner and support the arts! $9.95 per person.

RENOVATIONS

During renovations at The Bank Theatre upcoming events will be held at offsite locations. Visit our website for updates. www.banktheatre.com

THE BANK THEATRE MATCHING FUND CAMPAIGN

Draw Date: Saturday, January 27, 2018

14 Mill Street East, Leamington, Ontario, N8H 1R7 519-322-2251

The Municipality of Leamington will match dollar for dollar, all private and corporate donations within a 6 month deadline. Naming rights, individual and corporate giving options and information is available on our website. A canvassing campaign by The Bank Theatre volunteers has begun. To learn more visit our sponsorship pages at www.banktheatre. com

THE BANK THEATRE BOARD MEETING

Tuesday, January 9, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. Downstairs at The Bank Theatre, 10 Erie St. S. Leamington. All welcome - new members $5.

Herman Bauer

Herman Joseph Bauer, 76 years, passed away suddenly at home on Saturday, December 30, 2017.

Beloved husband of Julie for almost 20 years. Loving father of Robert and his wife Kelley and their children Jonathan and Camryne. Dear brother of Garry and his wife Helen, late Mike and his wife Jeanette. Survived by his nieces Tara, Gale, Julie and Nancy.

At Herman’s request, cremation has taken place. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation may be made by contacting the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell St, Leamington (519-326-2631).

Family and friends are invited to share their words of comfort and remembrance at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Gloria Inghelbrecht

Gloria Jean Inghelbrecht, born February 27, 1944 and passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Monday, December 25, 2017.

Beloved wife of Willie for 56 years. Loving mother of Dave and Doreen, Thomas and David InghelbrechtWiebe, Barb and Terry Dennis, Christine and Andrew Boudry. Loving grandma of the late Rebecca, Allison, Heidi, Emily, Lisa, Derrick, Megan, Emily, Sydney, Jason, Justin, Jesse, Alyssa, Amber, Drew, Page, Ashley, Vanessa, Austin and all of their loving spouses. Greatgrandmother of Amelia, Sophia, Andi, Chase, Scarlett, Aalilah, Lucas and 2 expected blessings on their way. Gloria was one of 9 children whom she loved dearly. She will be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Gloria’s passions were family, cooking, reading, watching The Young and the Restless and her pet companion Maggie.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home and Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Friday, December 29, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. until the Memorial Service to celebrate Gloria’s life at 7:00 p.m. Rev. Michael Cardinal officiated.

If desired, memorial donations made by cheque to Windsor Regional Hospital Cath Lab or Cardinal Place Members Club (Retirement Home) would be appreciated. Share words of comfort or make a donation at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Marianne Driedger

Marianne Driedger (nee Rempel), 95 years passed away peacefully with family by her side on Monday, January 1, 2018 at the Leamington Mennonite Home. Beloved wife of the late John P. Driedger for 66 blessed years. Loving mother of Carolyn Snider (Glenn), Fred Driedger (Linda), Mary Kraus (late Michael, 2010, and dear friend Jonathan Elcombe), Janice Founk (Jim), and Susan Driedger (Walter Engert). Proud and cherished Oma of 15 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. Dear sister of Helen Cornies (Bill), Harold (Helen), the late Nick (the late Mary), the late Rudy (Tina), the late Art (Irene), and the late Ernie (Elsie). Marianne will be remembered by many nieces and nephews from both the Rempel and Driedger families.

Visiting is at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-2631) on Friday from 3-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

Funeral Service to celebrate Marianne’s life will be held from North Leamington United Mennonite Church, 625 Mersea Road 6, Leamington, on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 12 noon. Rev. Alicia Good officiating. Private family interment at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial donations made by cheque to the Southwestern Ontario Gleaners would be appreciated. Family and friends are invited to share their words of comfort and remembrance at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Matthew Derksen

Matthew Edward Derksen, 45 years, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, December 26, 2017.

Mary Jane Clifford

Mary Jane Clifford (nee McLandress), 84 years, passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Friday, December 22, 2017.

Beloved husband of Audra. Loving father of Nicole, Jacob, Joshua and Cameron. Dear son of Elfreeda and the late Edward Derksen (2004). Dear son-in-law to the late Norman (2017) and Dorothy (2000) Omstead. Loving brother of Lisa and Paul Tiessen, Terri and Ken Hamm, and Ryan and Cindy Derksen. Brother-in-law of Keith and Margo Omstead, Dave and Jane Omstead, Tim and the late Renee (2011) Omstead, Joanne and Donald Dawson, Randy and Peggy Omstead, Jeanne and John Mullins, Darren and Christine Omstead. Matthew will be sadly missed by his many nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins, friends and students.

Matthew could regularly be found at the arena coaching his children or supporting them from the stands, the soccer fields, track meets, volleyball and badminton courts, always cheering his four children on. Matthew loved being a teacher with GECDSB for almost 20 years. In that time he served at Belle River Public School, Ruthven Public School and currently at Jack Miner Public School.

Audra and her family would like to thank the first responders from the Kingsville Fire Department, the EMT, the staffs at Leamington Emergency Room, Cath Lab, CCU and WRH Ouellette Campus ICU for their excellent care.

Visiting was at North Leamington United Mennonite Church, 625 Mersea Road 6 on Friday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

Funeral Service to celebrate Matthew’s life was held at NLUM Church on Saturday, December 30, 2017 at 10 a.m. Interment Erie Memorial Gardens.

Beloved wife of the late William Clifford (2002).

Loving mother of Janet Clifford Brown (Darrell Brown), David Clifford (Sharmila Sukhdeo), Joanne Brown (David), Cameron Clifford.

Cherished grandmother of Lindsey (Jason), Ian (Kat), Majka, Ben(Sofiya), Jeff (Dan), and great-grandmother of Sawyer and Levi. Dear sister of William McLandress (late Joan), late Marilyn Inch (late Cliff), Isabel McFarlane (late Les). Sister-in-law of Don Dunmore (late Peggy). Predeceased by brother-in-law Burt Clifford (late Ella), Art Clifford and Evangeline Clifford. Will be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home and Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Friday, December 29, 2017 from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Funeral Service to celebrate Mary Jane’s life was held from the funeral home on Saturday, December 30, 2017 at 11 a.m. Interment followed at Ruthven Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made by cheque to Olinda-Ruthven United Church. You may share words of comfort or make a donation at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Donald Raymont

Donald Richard “Don” Raymont passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at the age of 73 with his family by his side after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Marion Howe

Marion Beatrice Howe (nee Lamotte), 94 years, passed away peacefully at the Sun Parlor Home, Leamington, on Thursday, December 28, 2017.

Beloved wife of the late Joseph (1991). Loving mother of Joe (late Mary Beth). Loving grandmother of Megan (Dan), Ryan (Crystal), Hanna (Domenic). Proud great-grandmother of 5 great-grandchildren with one on the way. Dear sister of the late Ernie (Ella), late Rita Impens (late Charles), late Theresa Bonyai (Joe), late Florence Impens (late Ferd), late Rosie Ciliska (late Ralph), late Morris, late Henry (Doreen and Jake Dech), Ted (late Annette), Kay Balsam (Walter), Joe (Nola). Adored aunt to her many nieces and nephews.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell St, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Monday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

Funeral Service to celebrate Marion’s life was held at the funeral home on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at 11 a.m. Interment at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery followed.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations made by cheque to the Sun Parlor Home would be appreciated.

Family and friends are invited to share their words of comfort and remembrance at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Memorial donations may be made to the Derksen Trust Fund (cheques payable to Audra Derksen). Friends may share memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca To place an obituary notice, please contact your

Don was the beloved husband and best friend of Linda (nee Hall) and proud father of Lorie Morency (Kevin), Brad (Terri). Cherished grandfather of five wonderful grandchildren, Travis, Emily, Noah, Clairissa and Cooper. Dear brother of Betty Patterson (late Jim), sisterin-law Sharon Raymont (late Ron), sister-in-law Joan Hutchinson (Melvin), sister-in-law Connie Stockwell (Wayne), sister-in-law Barbara Gagnon (Dave), brotherin-law Stan Hall (Heidi), Tom and Bob Hall, late sisterin-law Martha Ames (late Malcolm). Special uncle of many nieces and nephews and their families. Don will be remembered by his many friends and colleagues. Predeceased by his parents Lorraine (Osborne) and Willard Raymont, and his mother-in-law and father-inlaw Jean and Murray Hall. For 22 years Don and Linda wintered in Florida, leaving behind many close and dear friends.

Don was retired from General Motors after 31 years of service. Don was proud of being a third generation and lifelong farmer with his son Brad carrying on the tradition.

A very warm and sincere thank you to Dr. S. Horen and many other doctors Don had seen along his journey, and ParaMed nurses and staff at the Erie Shores Hospice where Don had lived comfortably for his last 20 days.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Friday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

Celebration of Don’s life was held at the funeral home on Saturday, December 23, 2017 at 11 a.m. with Rev. Kim Gilliland officiating. Cremation. In lieu of flowers, donations to Erie Shores Hospice or Cottam United Church would be appreciated. Family and friends are invited to share their words of comfort and remembrance or make a charitable contribution at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

June

St-Michel celebrates new greenhouse

A project that blossomed from a student’s thoughtful idea into a finished product proved cause for four celebrations in one at Ecole St-Michel. Leamington’s French Catholic elementary school marked the completion of its now fullyfunctional, miniature scale greenhouse with a four-in-one occasion Thursday, June 8. The greenhouse’s grand opening ceremony was flanked by an outdoor school carnival, an indoor Aboriginal art expo and a Buick Drive For Your Students fundraiser presented by Leamington GM.

Gleaners make shipment to First Nations

The Southwestern Ontario Gleaners are well known for supporting underprivileged communities overseas, but they’ve recently proven ready, willing and able to help fellow Canadians as well. On Tuesday, June 13, the Leamington-based SWOG sent away a large shipment of food and other items destined for four First Nation communities in Northern Ontario. The collection of produce, canned goods, dehydrated soup mix and hockey equipment filled a 53foot trailer from front to back thanks to the support of local growers, schools and other community partners.

Amphitheatre project taking shape

Municipal council is now confident it’ll be able to ‘raise the roof’ for the second annual installment of Hogs For Hospice. The latest step in the process of revamping Leamington’s water front became visible for all to see on Tuesday, June 27 as the outdoor amphitheatre’s roof was raised and secured to its four support pillars before a crowd of onlookers that included members of municipal council and administration.

Leamington student 1 of 150 from across Canada chosen for trip to Ottawa

Chloe Jakob, a Grade 10 student from Leamington, is one of 150 youth between the ages of 14-19, chosen from across Canada, for a trip to Ottawa on June 24 for eight days of experiential learning, leadership development, and community engagement activities as part of Canada 150&Me.

July

Local youth takes part in national event

A Leamington high school student played a role in an opportunity that comes along only once every century and a half. Leamington District Secondary School student Chloe Jakob was one of 150 teens from across Canada chosen to participate in Canada 150 and Me, a series of sesquicentennial celebrations held in Ottawa in recognition of the nation’s 150th birthday as supported by the Canadian Department of Heritage. The nine-day list of events brought students together from every province and territory minus the Northwest Territories, from some who’ll be starting Grade 9 in September of this year to others who graduated from secondary school last month. Fifteen-

year-old Jakob will be among LDSS students attended courses at the new school on Oak Street West at the Grade 11 level.

YMCAs and Parks Canada partner to revitalize Camp Henry

The YMCAs across Southwestern Ontario and the YMCA of Western Ontario have announced a partnership with Parks Canada to establish a new overnight summer camping destination for children ages 5-15 at Point Pelee National Park. Camp Henry, originally established in 1938, will again be home to summer fun for hundreds of children and youth, including swimming, archery, canoeing, crafts, and wilderness adventures.

Summer school program expands to Leamington

The two-month summer break is well underway, but that doesn’t mean all local students have put the brakes on learning. St. Louis Catholic Elementary School has become the first school beyond Windsor’s city limits to benefit from the Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board’s Summer Learning Program, a Ministry of Education-funded initiative that the local board first adopted in 2014. At St. Louis, the program has been branded the Minds on Learning Academy, where roughly two-dozen Grade 2 and 3 students are taking part in its three-week schedule.

Thunderfest rolls in to entertain

The skies may have been clear but the sound of thunder filled the air at the Leamington Fairgrounds on Saturday evening, July 15. Featuring competitors of all ages, the Erie Ramblers hosted Thunderfest Dirt Track Racing, to the delight of hundreds of motorcycle racing enthusiasts. The second day of the event, July 16, was held at Erie Ramblers Clubgrounds in Wheatley. The event also drew 34 racers from across North America — from New York to Vancouver — racing around the dirt flat track at speeds of up to 100 mph. One of the highlights of the evening included Wheatley’s Greg Hodovick braving the ‘wall of fire’. As the wooden wall, totally engulfed in flames roared, Hodovick burst through it virtually unscathed.

Tropical tree thriving in Leamington

The Leamington area is well known as a place to grow fruits including tomatoes, apples and even grapes, but it’s warm-by-Canadian-standards climate has just added a far more unlikely food item to the list. After bringing the banana tree home, Myer did some extensive online research and discovered that a man in British Columbia was able to grow one year-round outdoors by drastically trimming its height down in the autumn and covering what remained with straw for the winter months. Myer has been doing the same each year, reducing the tree’s height to about three feet from the ground in November and using about two bails of straw to shelter the rest from the snow, ice and freezing temperatures. He conducts the ‘winterization’ process after the

first hard frost of the season kills the leaves and normally removes the straw in March after new growth on its stalks begin pushing through. Presently, the tree has seven stalks, two of which are growing its first-ever bananas — about 50 each for a total of roughly 100. After uncovering it this year, Myer noticed that one stalk was growing a flower pod instead of leaves. A short time later, a second stalk started doing the same. Since being reduced to about waist height in the fall, the tree has grown to a height in excess of 20 feet, well above the roofline of Myer’s house. He expects that by the time it is ready to be cut down again later this fall, it’ll grow at least another five feet.

Jared Myer stands next to a banana tree growing along the side of his Deer Run Road home. The tree has grown above the house’s eavestroughs and now sports about 100 bananas.

August

Hogs For Hospice another success

The Hogs for Hospice three-day motorcycle rally was a huge success with thousands turning up for the Aug. 4-6 event. The weekend featured sold out concerts – Hairball on Friday night and Our Lady Peace on Saturday night, Rib Night, the signature event Tour the Tip, Motocross pro Jason Thorne,Pancake Breakfast and Bob’s Biker Games.

New venue a success for Wheatley Idol For 2017, a quick edition of Wheatley Idol was won by a quick learner. This year’s Wheatley Fish Festival singing contest underwent a lengthy list of changes, primarily — but not exclusively — a new date and venue. The 14th annual version of the competition — again sponsored by the Wheatley Optimist Club — was moved from Sunday at Two Creeks Conservation Area to Saturday at Coulter Park, across from the Wheatley Royal Canadian Legion. This year’s Idol was led and organized by a new team made up of Kym Mercer, Meghan Mercer and Dina McClellan. The event’s structure was also altered this year, with all age category winners announced and awarded following the final performance of the last division. The strategy allowed for a more fluent procedure of singers with no lulls in the process. The new arrangement cut the competition’s total duration down to less than two hours.

Former Leamington resident wins

2017 RAIC Young Architect Award

Jodi Batay-Csorba, originally from Leamington, and her husband Andrew Batay-Csorba received the Royal Architec-

tural Institute of Canada (RAIC) 2017 Young Architect Award.

The RAIC Young Architect Award recognizes architects 40 years old or younger for excellence in design, leadership, and service to the profession. The award is intended to inspire other young architects to become licensed and to strive for excellence in their work.

Local duo wins Senior Games gold

For David Derbyshire and Rev. Derek Parry, success in the regional Ontario Senior Summer Games was in the cards. The Wheatley team took part in the annual Southwest region competition in the duplicate bridge event, where they emerged with gold medals after two sessions of three-and-a-half hours each, playing 24 hands each time. A total of 23 teams participated in the 55-plus duplicate version of the game, where cards are already set in the boards and entries play the same 13 cards instead of shuffling and dealing between hands as is done in contract bridge. “It eliminated the randomness of the cards,” explained Derbyshire. “There’s a lot more luck involved in contract bridge. In duplicate, whoever plays them best wins.”

This year’s Ontario Senior Games Association Southwest Regionals were held in Sarnia Wednesday, Aug. 16, where 1,200 entries took part in sports that included pickleball, golf, tennis, five- and 10-pin bowling, swimming and foot races based on each participant’s pre-predicted time rather than outright speed.

Chacko strikes gold with U21 team

Not many players know what a busy season of baseball is quite like Leamington’s Hannah Chacko. The local 15-yearold UMEI student wrapped up her Ontario Baseball Association campaign one week after competing with the Under 21 Baseball Ontario provincial team, which captured gold in this summer’s 21U Baseball Canada Women’s Invitational Championships. Chacko played in two of six games with Team Ontario en route to earning the 2017 national title against opponents including Quebec, British Columbia, Nova Scotia and Manitoba. Hannah, donning the same #13 she wears with the Leamington Lakers travel bantam squad, was the youngest of the 13 players on the U21 Ontario hardball group.

September

New school year, new school opens Leamington District Secondary School students file into the front entrance of their new school for the first day of classes Tuesday, Sept. 5. The new school, at 80 Oak St. West, replaces the Talbot Street West school after more than 60 years of service. A public grand opening/open house is scheduled to take place Wednesday, Oct. 11. Students were given their first view of the completed building Wednesday, Aug. 30 with their own open house.

Horse racing action at Leamington Raceway

Drivers go three wide as they start the second of two laps during the fourth race at Leamington Raceway Sunday, Sept. 3. The weekly series of harness horse racing in Leamington was greeted by a large crowd of spectators representing all ages. The fifth of 13 race dates for the 2017 season included face painting, free rides, bicycle giveaways, bike races, a Leamington Flyers versus Wheatley Sharks harness race and other attractions for fans in attendance.

Damage pegged at $450,000 for downtown fire

A downtown apartment building and restaurant were gutted by a Friday morning blaze in Leamington, although a dramatic rescue prevented any serious injuries. The Darina Shawarma and Bakery on the east side of Erie Street North, immediately north of The Gingerbread House Family Restaurant, took on extensive damage from a fire reported to Leamington Fire Services at 7:02 a.m. Friday, Sept. 15. Upon arrival, Leamington firefighters spotted an adult male leaning out of a second-floor window yelling for assistance.

Neighbour Helping Neighbour

On September 12, two Margaret Ave. neighbours – Bob DeBergh and Laurence Bauhaus– were spotted working together, side-by-side, painting the one neighbour’s fence. A third neighbor commented that it was good to see neighbours in action, helping one another out. The gentlemen did acknowledge, however, that they won’t likely get hired as a painting crew.

CILISKA EXCAVATING

Wheatley Harbour to receive $1.78M upgrade

For the first time since bellbottoms were in style, measures will be taken to ensure items outside the waters of Wheatley Harbour stay that way. Dean Construction Co. Ltd. of LaSalle has been awarded the tender to add an additional 18 inches or 45.7 cm to a northern portion of the harbour’s east wall — a significant elevation from the current section of the structure that juts only a few inches from the water’s surface. The process was slated to begin Thursday, Sept. 14 and began with shutoff to a nearby hydro pedestal. The section of wall targeted for the overhaul will run from the present surge basin northward to as far as Liddle’s Fishery and will be reconnected to existing tiebacks. Funding for the project is being provided by the federal government at the request of its Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ small craft harbours branch. The overall cost of the improvements has been valued at $1.78 million.

$10,000 in fines for over-limit of walleye

Two men have been fined a total of $10,000 for possessing an over-limit of walleye caught in Lake Erie. This was one of the most significant investigations of its kind in recent memory in Southern Ontario. Johan Enns of Drayton and Isaac Enns of St. Clements both pleaded guilty and were each fined $5,000 for possessing more than the allowable number of walleye caught in Lake Erie. In addition to the fines, four fishing rods, two tackle boxes, two coolers and 50 walleye were forfeited to the Crown.

October

Hogs For Hospice nets $200,000

A lot can happen over a time period of two months where nothing is supposed to happen. The Hogs For Hospice Motorcycle Rally organizing committee of seven members announced on Monday, Oct. 2 that the second annual fundraiser netted a profit of $200,000 — four times more than the $50,000 cleared by the inaugural three-day event in 2016. Shortly after the weekend event concluded in early August, the committee expected to generate somewhere above the $50,000 mark in proceeds. With a heavier flow of post-event contributions than expected however, that estimate quadrupled by the time the donation was officially made to the Erie Shores Health Foundation in support of Erie Shores Hospice and local healthcare.

LMHS Living Heritage Award Winner: Grant Bowman

The Leamington & Merea Historical Society has announced its fourth 2017 Heritage Award winner and it is for the Living Contribution category. This year’s recipient is Grant Bowman of Wheatley, a man who is well-known in both the Leamington and Wheatley communities. A graduate of Leamington District Secondary School, Grant spent a short time with the Royal Canadian Air Force before returning to the area and purchasing one of the region’s oldest mills in 1952.

Wheatley business receives Business Excellence Award

The 23rd Annual Business Excellence Awards took place Wednesday evening, October 11 at the Leamington Portuguese Club. The awards night was hosted by the Leamington and District Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Libro Credit Union. Among the award winners was the Adragna family of Dockside Fisheries in Wheatley and its commercial fishing and retail business, which was recognized with the Sponsor’s Choice Award. The Adragna family started as commercial fishermen in 1967, and in 2010 brothers Paul and Claudio saw an opportunity to expand their business to the retail sector — selling the fish they caught. Five years later the family decided to expand their business further, buying property in Wheatley to sell fish caught locally, as well a variety of other seafood.

Local family finds lost WWI letter

A misplaced piece of local history has been discovered just over a century after it was written. While taking on a home renovation project, Margaret and John Friesen found a letter written by World War I soldier Roy Furey addressed to his brother Guy, dated Sunday, July 15, 1917 — 100 years and two weeks before it eventually fell from a dining room ceiling as John was removing it to transform the room into a kitchen. The letter was addressed from Bramshott Camp in England and is written in cursive on both the front and back of two pages. The letter as uncovered by the local family also included its original envelope, stamped “Orderly Room 4th Canadian Reserve Battalion” in red ink.

LDSS celebrates completion of new school with open house

Future Lions, brothers Alex, Anthony and Adam Berg, took time out to have a little hands-on fun in the music room at the new LDSS. Over 1,000 visitors of all ages took the opportunity Monday evening, Oct. 23 to tour the new $32-million Leamington District Secondary School in the Celebration of Completion. Students and staff were on hand to offer tours, provide demonstrations and answer questions from the visitors.

ESHC promo videos hit the big screen

A combination of health care and Hollywood has made its way to Leamington. The Erie Shores Health Foundation and Your TV have joined forces to create two 30-minute promotional videos highlighting the services and programming available to patients at Erie Shores HealthCare, formerly Leamington District Memorial Hospital. The two videos document the firsthand accounts of six patients, who share and describe their recent experiences at ESHC via recorded interview processes. Four of the six participating patients, referred to by the Erie Shores Health Foundation as ambassadors, were able to attend the premier screening of the videos at Imagine Cinemas at 84 Talbot St. East in Leamington on Wednesday, Oct. 25.

390 Talbot St. N. Essex

519-776-6447

chrisbabkirk@kenknappford.com

Lions

win rival battle in boys hockey

By Bryan Jessop

The Leamington Lions completed the 2017 calendar year on a particularly strong note, defeating their in-town rival Cardinal Carter Cougars 6-1 a day after tripling the Kennedy Clippers 6-2.

The Thursday, Dec. 21 match brought the two local WECSSAA Tier II undefeated teams together for a head-to-head match at Highbury Canco Arena to wrap up the pre-Christmas stretch of the regular season. The Cougars entered the match at 2-0-0 while the Lions were in the hunt for first place at 3-0-2. With the win, Leamington moved into a 10-point tie for the lead with the Massey Mustangs.

The Lions were the dominant team in the first period, testing Cougars’ goalie Adam Zylstra early and often while Matt Ciliska saw considerably less action at the other end of the rink. Andrew Verhaeghe started the scoring for LDSS unassisted, sending a backhander into the lower right corner during a one-on-one race for puck possession. Leamington struck next on its first and only power play of the game when Mason Gow one-timed a Jeron Kir pass while stationed to the right side of the net on a shot that Zylstra had no chance of stopping. The second assist went to Damon Palichuk.

“Today we got the pucks in deep and just fired as many shots as we could.”

— Cameron Symons

The period’s scoring concluded with just under two minutes to go, as Nick Heyens tucked the disc into the left side after Zylstra committed to Cameron Symons before he made the cross-crease pass. The other assist went to Coleton Graham.

Symons allowed the Lions’ furious offensive pace to continue in the second, starting with a quick wrist shot into the top right corner that beat the Cougar netminder’s blocker. Owen Lindsay and Graham assisted.

About eight minutes later, Symons made it 5-0 during an odd-man-rush, burying a wrist shot past Zylstra’s glove and into the right side of the mesh. Brett Thomas was credited with the lone assist.

Cardinal Carter put itself on the board with 16.6 seconds remaining as Camron Taouil sent a low wrist shot through Ciliska’s armour and into the far, right side, unassisted. Gow potted the last goal with just over four minutes to go in the third, charging toward the Cardinal Carter net from its right side before cutting across the crease to sink a backhander from point blank range. Alex Stewart accounted for the only assist.

“Today we got the pucks in deep and just fired as many shots as we could,” said Symons. “We were able to make those first passes, stretch their defense out and then move in on goal.”

The win was the largest margin of victory so far this season for the Lions, who like the Cougars, were zero for one on the power play.

“That was one of the first games all year where we really put in a full three periods,” explained Lions coach Tony Nurse. “We came out fine and kept up the pace.”

“LD’s got a great team with a lot of great players — they were the better team today,” said Cougars head coach Ryan Coristine. “Adam made a lot of big saves today, but we were trying to hold onto the puck a bit too much. We’ve got to share the puck with each other to compete with the better teams.”

The Lions will return to home ice action Wednesday, Jan. 17 at 3 p.m. against Lajeunesse. The Cougars will be back on home ice Thursday, Jan. 11, also with a 3 p.m. start against Lajeunesse.

The Cougars’ Carson Mastronardi chips the puck between Leamington’s Damon Palichuk and Alex Stewart and into the corner during a WECSSAA Tier II boys hockey match at Highbury Canco Arena Thursday, Dec. 21. Leamington posted a 6-1 win in the contest between rival teams.

November

Wheatley swimmer signs with Delta A Mississippi university won’t go too long without benefiting from the in-pool dedication of a local family. Leamington District Secondary School student Maddy Lavoie officially signed her letter of intent with Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi at a celebration hosted by The Bowl and Barrel in Windsor Sunday, Nov. 5 among family, friends and various swim team cohorts. More than 80 postsecondary education institutions contacted the 17-year-old Wheatley youth in hopes of bringing her aboard to their swim teams, but she ultimately decided to go with DSU’s offer of a full ride scholarship.

Wartime honour rolls donated to local museum Historical promotional poster discovered The timing was impeccable. It was a gift that will continue to give, and one that will enable future generations to help pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice so they could enjoy their freedom. On Thursday, Nov. 9, Reverend Colin Swan, minister at the Comber United Church and representative of the Essex Presbytery, made a special delivery to the Kingsville Historical Park. Rev. Swan, armed with some very valuable gifts, was on hand to deliver artifacts that had been adorning the walls of three area churches before their doors were shuttered. The minister was delighted to help ensure the honour rolls from Goldsmith, Mount Carmel and Oakland churches were preserved, as well as the names of the men who sacrificed so much fighting for the Canadian Forces to help ensure our freedom.

Siddall receives Branch Service Award

Wheatley Legion hosted its Armistice Eve Banquet on Friday evening, November 10, at the Branch. One of the features of the annual banquet is the presentation of yearpins and special awards. Each year since 2010 a recipient is chosen to receive the Branch Service Medal. This award was created to recognize members who are the backbone of the Legion and who have never held or are not currently holding office, but who quietly and in the background continue to be there when needed. This year Bill Siddall was the recipient of a much-deserved Branch Service Award for 2017.

Local couple donates new building to Erie Shores Hospice

A local couple has come through with a very special gift for the community – just in time for Christmas. It’s a gift that will continue to give for many years to come. Don and Kathy Mastronardi, a retired Leamington couple, were looking for a way to assist the community in memory of their parents, Umberto and Mary Mastronardi and Roy and Betty Hockaday. After much thought, the couple chose the

LEAMINGTON BLOOD DONOR CLINIC at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, Wednesday, January 3, 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. New donors & walk-ins welcome! To book an appointment or for additional information, please contact us at 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283) / www.blood.ca / GiveBlood App.

LEGO - WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3 TO SATURDAY, JANUARY 6, all day drop-in at Wheatley Library. Get creative with the library’s bins of Lego and Duplo.

FUNG LOY KOK TAOIST TAI CHI OPEN HOUSETuesday, January 9 from 9:30 - 10:15 a.m. at St. John’s Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Demonstrations on how to improve circulation and balance, increase strength and reduce stress. Learn how to focus on the well-being of body and mind through practice of Taoist Tai Chi.

WHEATLEY HERITAGE SOCIETY Regular hours of operation will resume Tuesday, January 9. Wheatley Heritage Society is open Tuesdays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. For appointments other than normal hours contact Heather Vannieuweneburg at 226-248-0382 or e-mail wheatleyheritage@ gmail.com.

Erie Shores Campus of Hospice Windsor-Essex County as the recipient of their generous gift. On Monday, November 27, Joan McSweeney, board of directors of the Hospice of Windsor and Essex County, along with Sheila McBrayne, chair of the Erie Shores Health Foundation Board, announced the hospice will become home to a new welcome centre/training facility.

Skills Ontario event comes to Leamington Students considering careers based in skilled trades and technology kept their ambitions afloat with a competition that recently made its way south of London for the first time. Skills Ontario introduced the annual Cardboard Boat Races to Leamington last week, drawing precisely 100 high school students from school boards in Windsor-Essex, ChathamKent and Niagara to the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex. There, teams of four represented their schools in a challenge where they built vessels of cardboard and duct tape that were put through their paces via a 25-metre race and weight capacity testing.

Townhouse construction begins at LMH

The staff, residents, family and friends of the Leamington Mennonite Home gathered to ‘dig’ into an effort to expand services at the local facility. On Thursday, Nov. 30, a crowd of guests converged upon the site of the PickwickOak Townhouse Development Project for a sod turning ceremony that officially kicked off the construction process for a new nine-unit facility.

December

LDSS students collect over 55,000 cans for Food Bank

On Friday, December 8, Grade 12 students from Leamington District Secondary School were out in the community colleting cans, non-perishables and financial donations for the Leamington Goodfellows annual can drive. Each year a friendly competition is held between the students. For the first time since 2013 the boys had come out on top!

Giving Spoon at The Bridge a huge success

That warm, comfy feeling from within was about more than just the soup. For the first time ever, Leamington’s annual Giving Spoon Fundraiser was held both at and for The Bridge Leamington Youth Resource Centre — a change of venue that translated into an overwhelming display of community support. The event was held Saturday, Dec. 9 and Sunday, Dec. 10 and upon it’s 2 p.m. completion on the second day, raised more than $9,300. An estimated 350 supporters visited The Bridge — the former St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Sherk Street — on Saturday.

Good start for Talbot Trail fundraising

Early December sub-freezing temperatures don’t usually

offer the chance to stroll the links of the local golf course, but a dedicated group did just that east of Wheatley. The Talbot Trail Golf Course’s first-ever Junior Golf Walk-AThon attracted 25 participants — one for each year of the facility’s rapidly aging sprinkler system — in an effort to raise funds for a new irrigation system. As of the event’s Sunday, Dec. 10 date, a sum of about $15,000 had been raised by the Walk-A-Thon. Additional contributions continued to greet organizers through midweek. More than $3,000 of the total was drummed up through pledges collected by participating Talbot Trail junior golfers while the balance came from the course’s members and businesses from the surrounding areas.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN for six-week Art Class Series for children age 9-11. Drawing, collages, water colours, art in nature, self portraits. Register at Kingsville Arena. Classes will be held at Kingsville Arena on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m.12 noon, January 13 to February 17. Cost: $75. Please contact Candace at candaceanderson43@ gmail.com.

MATHEMATICS TUTORING FOR GR. 6-8 will be held Wednesday afternoons from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. in a classroom situation. The class will be led by retired teacher David Kolotylo who specialized in mathematics. No charge. 10 students maximum per class. Registration required. Individual tutoring available upon request. Students must bring their math notebooks, pens, pencils. For more information call 519-326-3111 and leave a message for Deacon Deborah.

LEAMINGTON BLOOD DONOR CLINIC at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, Wednesday, February 7, 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. New donors & walk-ins welcome! To book an appointment or for additional information, please contact us at 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283) / www.blood.ca / GiveBlood App.

Community CALENDAR

CONNECTIONS EARLY YEARS FAMILY CENTRE’S 8TH ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT & CHICKEN/PASTA

DINNER - Friday, February 9 at 6:00 p.m. at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 143 (1570 Marentette Ave., Windsor). Includes bake sale, 50/50 draw, raffle, door prizes. $20 per person. Register online at https://tinyurl.com/connections-trivia-night-2018 or 519-252-9696. Proceeds support programs for children 0-6 in WIndsor-Essex County i.e. play sessions, parenting courses, literacy, numeracy, pre-school speech and language, infant hearing and Blind Low Vision Programs.

T.O.P.S. - TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY - a support group that meets every Tuesday evening at Faith Everlasting Church, 587 Hwy. 77, Leamington. Weigh In 5:30 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. Meeting 7:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. First meeting is free.

CAREER CLOTHING IS AVAILABLE at St. John Anglican Church Angel Cupboard for anyone who requires professional clothing to attend job interviews or for starting a new position. Call 519-3263111 and leave a message for Charlotte to set up an appointment.

IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, THAT’S YOUR BUSINESS If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous: 519-999-1234.

IS ANGER INTERFERING WITH YOUR WORK AND HOME LIFE? Are you struggling with your anger? The CommUnity Partnership is offering a coping with anger group. This 8-week program is designed to give a better understanding of anger and provide positive coping strategies. Groups will run Wednesdays at Erie Shores HealthCare and are free of charge. More info: Community Partnership 226-348-4548 or email info@cupartner.ca

RANDY ATKINSON FUND provides money for extras that OHIP doesn’t pay for or to help with unexpected expenses for cancer patients (e.g. hospital parking etc). If you, your group or organization would like to have a speaker explain the fund and its availability in this area, call 519-682-2580.

FREE RECOVERY PROGRAMS at South Shore Health Centre, 15 John St., Leamington: Mondays at 6:30 p.m. Westover Recovery Support; Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. Women Only Recovery Support; Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. Guided Meditation Group; Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. SMART; Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Recovery Support in Low German and Spanish; Fridays at 6:30 p.m. CA Group. Individual family and friends education and support to create a recovery plan call 519-990-2530 for an appointment.

NOTICE

OF

NOTICES

2021 Division Road North Kingsville, Ontario N9Y 2Y9 519-733-2305 www.kingsville.ca

A PUBLIC MEETING - 5 YEAR OFFICIAL PLAN REVIEW

PURSUANT TO SECTION 26(3) AND (4) OF THE PLANNING ACT, R.S.O. 1990 (AS AMENDED)

TAKE NOTICE THAT A PUBLIC MEETING WILL BE HELD BY THE TOWN OF KINGSVILLE:

WHEN: February 12, 2018

WHERE: Town of Kingsville Council Chambers, 2021 Division Road N, Kingsville, ON TIME: 6:00 pm

A location map is not provided with this notice, as the Official Plan Review applies to all lands within the corporation limits of the Town of Kingsville.

Purpose

The Official Plan is a statement of goals, objectives and policies intended to guide future land use, physical development, and growth within the boundaries of the Town of Kingsville. The policies of the Plan are designed to promote the public interest in the future development of the Town, reduce uncertainty relating to future development, and to provide a basis for the Zoning By-law and other land use controls.

Ontario’s Planning Act requires municipalities to conduct an Official Plan Review every five years. The Town’s current Official Plan was approved in February 2012. Based on the requirements of the Planning Act, it is now time to update the Official Plan to ensure that the polices of the Plan are consistent with the latest Provincial policies, the County of Essex Official Plan, and other various planning studies and strategies that have been completed by the Town since the current Official Plan was approved. The focus of this scoped Official Plan Review is intended to primarily address matters of Provincial and County policy conformity.

Tell Us What You Think

The public is invited to attend this statutory public meeting to provide input into the Official Plan Review process and scope of work. We would like your input to identify areas of the Official Plan which may be revised through the review process. Input received from the public will be considered in the review and update to the Official Plan.

Written Submissions

If you are unable to attend this meeting but would like your comments and/or concerns received by members of Council, please submit your comments in writing to: c/o the Manager of Planning Services, Robert Brown, H. Ba, MCIP, RPP, 2021 Division Road North, Kingsville ON, N9Y 2Y9, or email: rbrown@kingsville.ca, and indicate your name and mailing address.

Additional Information

For further information on the 5-Year Official Plan Review, please contact:

Robert Brown, H. Ba, MCIP, RPP Manager of Planning Services Planning & Development Services Department The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville 2021 Division Road North Kingsville, Ontario N9Y 2Y9 Phone: 519-733-2305 Ext # 250 rbrown@kingsville.ca

DATED THIS 3rd day of January, 2018

COMING UP

KINGSVILLE LEGION BRANCH 188 - Friday Night Dinners 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Weekly Specials $16 (Ribs or Perch). Other weekly menu items $14. No dinners December 22 or 29. Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month 8:00 p.m. 519-7335162 (office) or 519-7339081 (bar) ja6-tf

LADIES, JOIN US FOR lunch at Colasantiʼs on Monday, January 8 at 12:00 noon. Cost is $20. Our guest speaker is Joan Cocks sharing her story “Once Upon a Time” and our feature is Jan Bateman - Batemanʼs Make Your Move. For reservations call Sharon 519-326-0421 by Friday, Jan. 5. Hosted by Leamington After 5, RSVP Ministries. ja3

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND OTHERS

All claims against the Estate of Raya (Laura) Youssef, late of Leamington, who died on March 15, 2017, must be filed by February 5, 2018, with the undersigned, failing which the Estate assets will be distributed having regard only to claims than filed.

DATED at Leamington, Ontario this 15th day of December, 2017.

Raya Youssef Estate c/o Richard A. McGrath, 2-99 Talbot St. E., Leamington ON N8H 1L4

Board Member Recruitment

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is a two site 200-bed community hospital system with state-of-the art facilities and technologies that delivers quality of care to the communities across Chatham-Kent and surrounding areas. At CKHA, Caring People, Caring for People is not just a slogan. It is an ongoing commitment.

CKHA is seeking strategic, experienced, engaged and talented members of our community who understand the role of a board governor to join us in the pursuit of this vision by participating as a voluntary member on our Board of Directors.

As a minimum, board members should expect to devote approximately 10 to 15 hours per month of their time to our hospital business, to attend regular board and committee meetings and adhere to our board responsibilities and policies.

Board recruitment is based on vacancies and the requirements identified by the Board Skills Matrix; specific information regarding our board responsibilities, policies and required skills, can be viewed at http://www.askckha.com/governance.

How to be Considered

Interested applicants are requested to submit a covering letter and resume via email quoting “CKHA Board Recruitment” in the subject line to jon@waterhousesearch.com by January 19th, 2018. Your application should include the related experience and skills you bring to this role. All applications will be acknowledged, held in confidence, and kept on file for future consideration.

Applications and inquiries should be directed to our recruiter: CKHA Board of Directors c/o Jon Stungevicius, Senior Partner Waterhouse Executive Search Email: jon@waterhousesearch.com Telephone: 416-214-9233

We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

ITEMS FOR SALE

7 CUBIC FOOT chest freezer - $90. Works good, just too big for us. Please call 519-324-9586. ja3

3 CEMETERY PLOTS at Lakeview Cemetery available. For more information call 519-738-2459. ja3-10

IRWIN PLUMBING - New homes, renovations, repairs. Same or next day service. Since 1999. Call Tim 519825-7245. mr8-tf

call Neil for a free quote at 519-566-1366. oc11-tf

ELECTROLUX SALES & SERVICE: Complete line of vacuums and shampooers/ floor polishers. Will provide free estimate on Central Vac installations. Contact Dan Bailey. 519-825-7698. tf

We are seeking GREENHOUSE

PRODUCTION ASSOCIATES

• Compensation is $14.00/hour

• Monday through Friday (Occasional Saturdays)

• No education or experience required.

• Duties include hand-trimming, taking cuttings, hand harvesting, watering and cleaning of greenhouse.

Please apply at: careers@aphria.com or mail a resume to: P.O. Box 20009 269 Erie St. S., Leamington, ON N8H 3C4

Greenhouse Worker

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Crop work, winding, pruning, harvesting

• Checking quality of harvested produce

• Other duties as assigned

WORK CONDITIONS:

• Fast-paced environment, repetitive tasks, standing for extended periods

• Bend, crouching, kneeling, hand-eye coordination, attention to detail

• Working at heights, hot environment

WAGE AND HOURS:

• 40 plus hours a week including Saturdays

Have You Been Looking for the Right Opportunity? YOUR SEARCH IS OVER! is coming to Leamington!

If you are interested in a franchise opportunity or in being part of our team in Leamington, please contact Kosta at 519-919-0193

FINANCING AVAILABLE - ON APPROVED CREDIT

PINNACLE ACRES REQUIRES Full time greenhouse general labourers. $14.00/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 40 lbs on a repetitive basis, fast paced environment, strong work ethic, punctual, reliable. Please apply via email: pinnalcejobs@hotmail.ca No experience or education required. no15-jan10

• Wage: 14.00/hour, seasonal, full time No Education Required. No Experience Required. Please forward your resume by email to: hr@orangelinefarms.com (627 County Rd. 14, R.R. # 5, Leamington, ON N8H 3V8)

www.mortgageontario.com (Licence # 10969)

REACH MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS IN ONTARIO WITH ONE EASY CALL! Your Classified Ad or Display Ad would appear in weekly newspapers each week across Ontario in urban, suburban and rural areas. For more information Call Today 647-350-2558 Email: kmagill@rogers.com

DINIRO FARMS INC, 725 Mersea Rd. 5 Leamington, is looking for 9 permanent full-time Greenhouse Workers. No experience necessary. $14.00/hr, 40-48hrs/ wk including Saturdays and/ or Sundays. Start ASAP. Duties include: hand harvesting, tying, clipping, deleafing, cleaning, packing. Repetitive tasks, physically demanding, standing for extended periods in a hot environment. Own transportation, rural area. No experience or education required. Email resume: dinirofarms@ wavedirect.net. eow-ja3

E-mail, call or drop off your classified ad by Friday at 4:00 p.m. 194 Talbot St. E. Unit 5, Leamington ON N8H 1M2 Ph: 519-398-9098 Email: journal@mnsi.net or sun@mnsi.net We accept CASH, CHEQUE, DEBIT, VISA & MASTERCARD

GREENHOUSE WORKERS NEEDED

Employees will be required to carry out all job tasks as specified by the operation manager.

Specific duties include: Pruning, clipping, harvesting and cleaning work area. Repetitive task, standing for extended periods, hot humid conditions, comfortable working on scissor lifts, handling weights of up to 23 kg or 50 lbs, report signs of insect or disease damage.

Permanent full time weekdays including weekends. $14.00 per hour. Will train the right candidate. Must be able to work within a group or on their own. Reliable and dependable.

Must have own transportation.

Apply:

Southshore Greenhouses Inc. 1746 Seacliff Drive Kingsville, Ontario N9Y 2M6

FOR SALE

SAWMILLS from only $4,397MAKE MONEY & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT 1-800-567-0404 Ext:400OT.

COLORADO BLUE SPRUCE:

$0.99/each for a box of 180 ($178.20). Also full range of tree, shrub, and berry seedlings. Free shipping most of Canada. Growth guarantee. 1-866-873-3846 or TreeTime.ca.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

WORRIED ABOUT YOUR CREDIT CARD BALANCE? Let us eliminate your credit card debt with rates from 2.2%. Bad credit OK (OAC). CALL TODAY TOLL-FREE 1-800-581-8288 (LIC #4733142)

WANTED

WANTED: OLD TUBE AUDIO EQUIPMENT. 40 years or older. Amplifiers, Stereo, Recording and Theatre Sound Equipment. Hammond Organs, any condition. CALL Toll-Free 1-800-947-0393 / 519853-2157.

EMPLOYMENT OPPS.

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Melissa Redekop of the Lightning bumps the ball over the net from the front line as Leamington’s Kelsey Almasi prepares to block during WECSSAA Tier II senior girls volleyball action at LDSS Thursday, Dec. 21. The Lions swept their guests in scores of 25-11, 25-19 and 25-12 to wrap up the 2017 calendar year’s schedule. In the following junior girls’ match, the Lightning won the first set 25-18, although the Lions rebound to take the next two by scores of 29-27 and 25-19.

Novice A in Hespeler tournament

The Southpoint Novice A participated in the Hespeler Olympics Hockey Tournament held in Cambridge Dec. 27-29. After the round robin the Novice A team was undefeated, beating the Barrie Colts, the Guelph Gryphons and the Whitby Wildcats.

The semi-finals was a heartbreaker for the team, losing 2-1 in double overtime to the Barrie Colts.

The coaches are extremely proud of the players determination, dedication and progression. The players should be extremely proud of their results.

Visit www.southpointminorhockey.com to see the team’s upcoming playoff schedule. Go Capitals!

Local woman honoured with Canada 150 medal

By Bryan Jessop

Cheryl Abbate’s efforts to spread awareness of Lyme Disease have not gone unnoticed.

On Monday, Dec. 18 at the Atlas Tube Centre in Lakeshore, Abbate attended a Canada 150 Medal Award ceremony, where she was presented with the prestigious honour by Essex MP Tracey Ramsey. A founding member of the Sun County Lyme Awareness Support Group, Abbate and the organization’s fellow members host monthly public meetings presenting information on the disease at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens and spearhead promotional campaigns including the outdoor green light demonstration at Caesars Windsor during Lyme Awareness Month in May.

“The ceremony was very heart warming and humbling, standing there with first responders receiving awards, police officers, and many others who make a difference every day in the lives of others,” Abbate stated.

ing patient diagnostics and treatment,” Abbate noted. “She’s a hero in the Lyme community.”

In November, Ramsey presented Abbate with one of five Windsor Essex Compassion Care Community Shining A Light On Compassion Awards at Kingsville Community Church for her decade-long campaign in advocating improved diagnosis procedures and medical treatment for Lyme patients.

During the ceremony, Ramsey awarded 40 local residents with Canada 150 medals and Sesquicentennial pins. The honours were bestowed upon citizens who volunteer and perform charitable duties to improve lives within their respective communities.

“One of the greatest pleasures in serving as MP of Essex is having the opportunity to work with people in our communities who dedicate themselves every day

by helping others,” Ramsey explained. “I selected Cheryl for a Canada 150 medal because of her tireless advocacy for the Lyme community in Essex County through her involvement in Sun County Lyme Awareness Support Group. I’m inspired by her desire to help others — even when she herself is facing health issues, she never says no to helping people navigate the difficult path of a Lyme diagnosis and treatment. Her desire for all people to be treated fairly and with dignity is a passion we share.”

Abbate and other representatives of the support group — which includes about 300 members from across Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent — describe the NDP Member of Parliament as a key supporter of the mission to enforce better care and treatment of Lyme Disease patients across Canada.

— Cheryl Abbate

“She has been very supportive of our efforts to correct the injustices occurring every day by neglect-

For additional information on the local Lyme group, visit Sun County Lyme Awareness Support Group on its Facebook page. Additional information on the disease can be found at www.canlyme.com.

During the ceremony, Ramsey also awarded Group Hug Apparel founder Andrew Banar, a Down Syndrome patient who’s earned several awards including the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for his volunteer services at local institutions including Erie Shores Health Care in Leamington.

The ceremony in Lakeshore was attended by about 200 guests.

Forty of the Canada 150 Medals as shown here were presented by Essex MP Tracey Ramsey to 40 members of local communities for public service and volunteerism.

Leamington resident Cheryl Abbate (right) accepts a Canada 150 Medal from Essex MP Tracey Ramsey during a ceremony at the Atlas Tube Centre in Lakeshore. Abbate, a member of the Sun County Lyme Awareness Support Group, has been an advocate for improved assessment and treatment of Lyme Disease in Canada for the past decade. (Submitted photos)

The Southpoint Novice A celebrate a win against the Whitby Wildcats at the Hespeler Olympics Tournament in Cambridge.

Bev Pearce with his award-winning 1950 Mercury Custom.

Purple 1950 Mercury a blast from the past!

Bev Pearce of Ridgeway writes: “I purchased the Merc in May 1995 in Dover, Delaware, from the original owner. I bought it for $500 US after it had sat outside since 1967 (the last sticker on the license plate). It was missing the engine and transmission. The rust rodents had eaten the floors and inner and outer rockers, and made the rear quarters look like lace.

“Work started in 2000. The body was removed, frame sandblasted, and a complete sub-frame added from Street Rod Engineering in Lake Havasu, Arizona.

THE OLD CAR DETECTIVE

Bill Sherk

“I assembled the engine myself after completion of machine work. It’s a 350 cubic inch Chev V8 with 350 Turbo trans and 1979 Cadillac Seville rear end along with four-wheel disc brakes, power rack and pinion, air conditioning, power windows, and tilt steering. The colour is House of Colour Pavo Purple painted by Ernie Roseborough.

“I looked for two years for a ’53 DeSoto grille before buying a whole ’53 DeSoto car just for the grille and bumper. All chrome and stainless was done by Cambridge Chrome ($8500 for brightwork alone).

“I am not a mechanic or body man but have twisted a wrench since I was 12 years old. I did about 95% of the work in my 2-car garage.

“With 2:77 gears, we get over 20 miles per gallon. The car has won countless awards and has been as far east as Shediac, N.B., west to St. Paul, Minnesota, south to Louisville, Kentucky, and many more places. My wonderful and supportive wife Eva and I have clocked over 38,000 miles to date.

“The biggest thrill was being invited to the Detroit Autorama at Cobo Hall in 2012 to be part of the Cavalcade of Customs. Here I met Gene Winfield, who has chopped hundreds of Mercs and who said he thought my Merc was chopped (it’s not) because of the drip rail treatment that follows the swoop of the rear window.

“Doors, hood, and trunk corners have been rounded, headlights and taillights frenched, power antenna frenched, and door handles shaved.”

“I am presently building a 1937 Hudson Terraplane coupe with a 354 Chrysler Hemi, purchased in February 2017 and hope to finish by 2018.”

Students at UMEI held a Peanut Butter Drive with donations to be given to The Salvation Army food bank. From left to right: Brad Webster, Lieutenant, Salvation Army, Hayden Epp, John Harder, Emma Bedal, and Mrs. Chani Wiens.

(Submitted photos)

UMEI hosts Peanut Butter Drive

At a Faith In Action trip to the Leamington Salvation Army in the fall, UMEI students heard about the lack of peanut butter at food banks and wanted to find a way to help. So, throughout November and December, students at UMEI Christian High School hosted a Peanut Butter Drive. This peanut butter was donated to food banks in Leamington and Kingsville.

A goal was set to bring in 5 kg of peanut butter per student. The students exceeded their goal and averaged 5.06 kg of peanut butter per student! Congratulations to the grade 9 class for bringing in almost 8 kg per student.

Some of the UMEI students are pictured with the peanut butter they collected for The Salvation Army food bank. Left to right: Jessica Thiessen, Monica Klassen, Abby Krueger, Denise Schmitt, Simon Enns, Troy Tiessen, Joey Krahn, Lawson Russelo, Hudson Dyck, Peter Hamm, Kaiden Silliker, Diana Kroeker, Alex Jadishke.

Flyers edge Lincolns in OT

By Bryan Jessop 2017-2018

The Flyers celebrate the game-winning overtime goal of Colton O’Brien before a dejected St. Marys goalie Tristan Lewis and defenseman Tyson Keilt at Highbury Canco Arena Thursday, Dec. 21. The goal was O’Brien’s first as a Flyer. (Sun photo)

fter the singing of O’Canada during a time of year when holiday goers sang the likes of Oh Christmas Tree, Leamington Flyer fans had reason to sing the praises of the O’Briens — especially after “o’vertime.”

Flyers rookie defenseman Colton O’Brien was a day away from celebrating his 16th birthday, but offered his teammates a couple presents in the form of an assist on the first goal in a Thursday, Dec. 21 game against the Lincolns and more importantly, the game winner in extra minutes. His first goal with the Leamington team sealed a 4-3 overtime victory against a feisty St. Marys squad that despite being badly outshot, proved dangerous while controlling the puck in the Flyers’ zone.

The Flyers accounted for most of the offensive action in the first frame, although they had to settle for a 1-1 stalemate at the 20-minute buzzer. Bryce O’Brien got the scoring started about eight minutes into the action, setting loose a wrist shot from the perimeter of the faceoff circle to the right of the Lincolns’ net. The puck soared just beyond netminder Tristan Lewis’s left pad before banking off the inner left post and over the line. The tally was set up by Griffin Robinson and Bryce’s younger sibling Colton.

just over two minutes remaining before the teams would have played five minutes of three on three, Colton O’Brien took a feed from Jake Nimmo and raced to a position between the faceoff circles before blasting a slap shot at the Lincolns’ goal. Lewis ventured a few steps from his crease and raised his glove arm to block the shot, allowing the puck to strike his shoulder, arc up through the air and bounce behind him and over the goal line.

The game winner was the rookie defenseman’s first goal as a Flyer.

“It felt good,” said the Belle River resident. “I saw it hit his shoulder and bounce up and towards the net — I was pretty happy about it. We started off a little slow tonight, but as the game got going, we got better.”

“We’ve had trouble scoring lately. Hopefully, that’s something we can change for the New Year.”

- Flyers head coach Tony Piroski

St. Marys mustered the occasional offensive rush and was rewarded with just over two minutes to go in the opening frame when Matthew Zilke took hold of a rebound and from the slot, sent a low shot through a maze of legs and sticks and into the right side of the Flyers goal. Leamington outshot its guests 12-6 upon completion of the first period.

Lewis made another string of big saves in the second stanza to keep the Lincolns in the game, although Josh Pope-Ferguson brought the Flyers into the second lead of the night about two-anda-half minutes into the action. After a Rory DiNiro shot sailed wide and bounced off the end glass and back in front of the net, Pope-Ferguson snapped a low shot over the line for the 2-1 Leamington lead. Bryce O’Brien earned the second assist.

Just over 10 minutes later, Cody Schneider added to the home team’s lead by sending a wrist shot off the inner left post and into the netting. Assists went to Kenny Styles and Pope-Ferguson. Another minute and 20 seconds later, St. Marys pulled to within a single when Zilke wired an ice-level slap shot through Connor Meyerink’s pads. The Flyers outshot the visitors by a 5-1 margin —20-4 — through the middle period.

Colton noted that he’s comfortable playing his first year of junior hockey in a defensive pairing with his older brother, as both bring a tough, physical element to the team’s roster.

“I actually like it a lot,” he said of playing alongside Bryce. “We connect with each other and play the same style. It works out really well.”

The overtime win avenged an extraminutes loss the Flyers suffered at the hands of St. Marys on home ice Thursday, Oct. 26, when Leamington also outshot their underdog guests by a considerable margin. In the December 21 game, the hosts more than tripled the Lincs on the shot counter, 52-17. Both teams were zero for two on the power play.

“We’ve got to give them credit — their team plays hard,” noted Flyers head coach Tony Piroski. “They may be a ninth place team, but you’d never know it by watching them. In this league, you’re in for some good hockey no matter which two teams are playing.”

Following the overtime win over St. Marys, Leamington began a two-week break between games that officially ends tomorrow — Thursday, Jan. 4 at 7:10 p.m. — with a home game against the Chatham Maroons. Piroksi explained that he hoped to schedule at least one or two practices into the lengthy rest period.

“Other than the (Thursday, Dec. 14) game against Chatham,” we’ve had trouble scoring lately,” he said. “Hopefully, that’s something we can change for the New Year.”

Rest of the West

The Lincolns tied the game about approximately four-and-a-half minutes of play in the third, when Dalton Bancroft approached the Leamington net from its left side on a rush and snapped a low shot past Meyerink after the goalie had fallen to his knees. The Flyers again registered a considerable shots on goal advantage — 15-6 — but on multiple occasions fired shots wide of the St. Marys goal.

The four-on-four overtime session was also controlled largely by the home team’s offense. With

On Wednesday, Dec. 20, the LaSalle Vipers nipped the Komoka Kings 5-4 in overtime while the London Nationals defeated the Lincolns 6-2. A busy Thursday night included a 7-4 win for the Chatham Maroons over the Strathroy Rockets a well as a 5-2 victory for the Sarnia Legionnaires over the St. Thomas Stars. On Friday, Dec. 22, the Stars came up short 3-1 against the Vipers. The calendar year wrapped up Saturday, Dec. 23 with a 5-4 win for Chatham over Komoka and an overtime Sarnia victory of 5-4 versus Strathroy.

Kenny Styles of the Flyers tries to maintain control of the puck after being hauled to the ice by the Lincolns’ Jake Weston. (Sun photo)

Leamington’s Preston Corp looks to the point to deliver a pass af ter picking up the puck along the boards as the Lincolns’ Clayton Lewis approaches. (Sun photo)