Santa Claus Parade in Kingsville kicks off the festive season
Story and photos by Paul Forman
The sights and sounds in Kingsville this past Saturday night, November 16, reminded all that Christmas is just around the corner.
Late afternoon at the Carnegie Arts & Visitor Centre was a warm-up for what was to come as the Kingsville BIA hosted a hockey shootout, a 360-degree photo booth, Christmas crafts and the holiday sounds from members of Kingsville School of Music.
When dusk arrived, the Santa Claus Parade made its way downtown then headed to Lakeside Park. Marching bands, zany characters, floats aglow and Santa with Mrs. Claus atop a town fire truck amazed the many hundreds that lined the streets.
The final destination of the evening for families was Lakeside Park. Inside the pavilion, hot chocolate and popcorn were served, followed by a sing-a-long opportunity for the kids. With a countdown from Mayor Dennis Rogers, Santa flipped the switch to begin Kingsville’s well known Fantasy of Lights while attendees made their way outside and around the park grounds to see the beautiful displays of lights that will run until January 2.
Karen Loney of the Town of Kingsville wanted to thank SK Cornerstone for being the signature sponsor for this year’s parade and extends an invitation to all for holiday events that will take place at Lakeside Park in the upcoming weeks. Paws & Claus takes place on December 3, the Christmas Artisan Market visits on December 7 and 8, Breakfast and Crafts with Santa follows on December 14, and a Fantasy of Lights Concert concludes the Christmas event calendar on December 21.
See more photos on page 11
Sean McCann brings slice of Newfoundland to The Bank Theatre
by Paul Forman
One of the co-founders of Canadian folk rock band Great Big Sea, Sean McCann helped celebrate Leamington’s 150th with performances on both November 15 and 16 at Leamington’s Bank Theatre.
impromptu accompaniments they provided really made for a special night for those in attendance.
McCann’s pride in his roots were laid out for all to see as he detailed how his family made their way to ‘The Rock’ and displayed his prowess as a ‘seventh-generation shantyman’ when extending an invitation to the audiences to join him in some lyrical fun.
McCann was part of an intimate gathering of five musicians in-the-round as part of the Monarch Cafe on Friday night and took the stage on Saturday night for a full concert that included both his solo work and hits from his time with Newfoundland’s Great Big Sea.
Leamington’s Justin Latam hosted McCann for Friday’s live music event, along with local musicians Bethany D’Alimonte, Max Marshall and Kitchener’s Ally Corbett. The amusing banter between the players and the impressive
The free 2024 Music on the 42nd concert series, presented by the Municipality of Leamington, the Leamington 150 Committee and The Bank Theatre, winds down with a final weekend featuring a Frankie Valli tribute on November 23 and a Broadway revue on November 24.
Santa and Mrs. Claus waved to the crowd to the sounds of cheers as the parade culminated in Kingsville.
Robert Hickey has made it a Christmas tradition to dress up as the Grinch for the Santa Claus Parade. He is pictured here with his daughter Nora just before the parade arrived downtown.
The audience had a unique opportunity to see Sean McCann up close and personal when he performed as part of a Monarch Cafe event at The Bank Theatre on November 15-16.
SUN photo by Paul Forman
MICHELLE WRIGHT HONOURED WITH SNOWPLOW NAMING
CTMHV puts Trillium Grant to great use
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On Thursday, November 14, Essex MPP Anthony Leardi met with the team at the Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village (CTMHV) as they celebrated the conclusion of an education, community engagement, and accessibility initiative supported by a $150,000 capital grant they received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).
“Thanks to the Government of Ontario through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village will be able to create an immersive blacksmith exhibit, and make their facility more accessible for everyone,” said MPP
Leardi. “I’m looking forward to seeing the new exhibit. Everyone should bring their family to see the cars at the museum and tour the Heritage Village.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation grant has enabled the CTMHV to complete essential projects that enhance accessibility, education, and preservation. The grant funded a new Blacksmith Shop for educational programs, added eight ramps to historic buildings, improved pathways to the boarding house with concrete, upgraded bathrooms for accessibility, upgraded lighting fixtures, and addressed structural repairs to protect a building longevity. New bilingual audio tour equipment
enhances accessibility for visitors with hearing impairments, while video equipment allows the museum to expand its virtual reach and engage audiences unable to visit in person.
“We’re incredibly grateful for this support,” said Karolina Brozy, Curator of CTMHV. “With these updates, we’re excited to welcome more visitors of all abilities and ensure they enjoy a safe, comfortable, and inclusive experience. Our programs and facilities are now more accessible, and these enhancements will allow us to continue preserving and sharing our local heritage.”
The cabin to house the blacksmith shop was donated by Robert Blais.
Local country music legend Michelle Wright joined Municipality of Chatham-Kent officials on November 15 to unveil a snowplow that has been named in her honour. The name of the plow is ‘Snow Wright’ and it will be keeping the roads snow-free in and around Michelle’s hometown of Merlin. Pictured are CK mayor Darrin Canniff and Michelle Wright in front of ‘Snow Wright’. Photo submitted
Chad Bonifazi, blacksmith for CTMHV, gets ready to demonstrate his blacksmithing skills for guests at the opening on Thursday, November 14. Photo by Dan McIntyre
Local Scouts make contact with astronaut on International Space Station
By Paul Forman
A year in the making, select Scouts from Cottam, Kingsville and Essex had the rare opportunity to take part in a question and answer session with an astronaut that is currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The out of this world 10-minute conversation took place inside Cottam’s United Church on November 16 by means of an amateur radio telebridge network linked to Italy and involved astronaut Sunita Williams who will remain on the ISS un-
til February of next year.
The brainchild of Leamington’s Bruce Peacock, the Scouting event began with a video of Williams providing a tour of the ISS, followed by a sound check for each child that would be providing a question and ending with the once in a lifetime chance to talk to Sunita who is orbiting the Earth at 28,000 kilometres per hour.
“I was hoping to bring something like this to a different part of Ontario,” said Peacock, a former aerospace technician who
worked on the robotic Canadarm. “Canada is really making a lot of progress in the world of aeronautics and I wanted the kids to be part of something that might interest them down the road.”
Lexi Jackson of 3rd Essex Scouts was one of the lucky ones that was able to pose a question to Williams during the radio contact.
“It’s so exciting to get to talk to an astronaut. I’ve always been interested in space and the planets,” said Jackson.
Astronaut Williams
was very friendly in the Q and A session and the kids were clearly excited to get answers to questions such as: Can you see Lake Erie? How did you become an astronaut? What are you studying in the space station?
This was not the only local opportunity for young people to engage with an astronaut as intermediate students at Erie Migration District School also had a chance to talk to Williams at another fly-by on the morning of November 18.
Above left, members of the Scouts were lined up to ask their questions for Astronaut Sunita Williams. James is at the microphone asking her about how one gets back from the International Space Station. Above right, Bruce Peacock (centre), a former aerospace technician who served as the Contact Coordinator, is flanked by Scouter Terri Vandermusen of 3rd Essex on the left and Scouter Doug Potier of 2nd Cottam on the right.
SUN photos by Paul Forman
Erie Shores HealthCare preparing for seasonal surge
In anticipation of the upcoming flu season, expected to last from November 2024 through March 2025, Erie Shores HealthCare is collaborating with Essex-Windsor EMS, Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare and Windsor Regional Hospital to manage the expected increase in patient volumes. This season’s initiatives include:
• Physician in Triage: The new model will have a dedicated triage physician perform initial assessments, prioritize care, and initiate treatment as patients arrive, reducing wait times and improving emergency department flow.
• Geriatric Emergency Medical Registered Nurse (GEM RN): A GEM RN will focus on specialized care for elderly patients and is available Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This role prioritizes fall prevention, crisis intervention, and tailored assessments for geriatric needs.
• Admission-Discharge Unit (ADU): The ADU enhances patient care quality and optimizes bed turnover efficiency. It includes RN-led education and pharmacy reviews, ensuring patients’ safe transitions home and reducing readmission rates. The public has an important role to play in helping reduce hospital and ambulance wait times. For non-emergency situations, the public can phone 811, go to a walk-in clinic or make an appointment with their family doctor.
FULL DENTURE FABRICATION IN LEAMINGTON
Immediate Dentures
An immediate denture is an excellent alternative to being without your teeth because your smile is restored directly after your extraction(s). An immediate denture will also protect the sensitive gum tissue at the extraction site(s). The denture acts as a bandage to:
•Control swelling and allow the healing to progress.
•Help keep the gums/tissue free of debris (food impaction) that can cause irritation.
Your immediate denture can be made in the likeness of your natural teeth, or changes can be made to your smile at your request. This process ensures that you will have the smile you always wanted without having to wait to heal.
Local tribute artist recipient of four awards
Rick Stephenson, of Kingsville, is continuing his living tribute to Frank Sinatra with four Independent Music Awards in Europe.
Rick, a renowned Frank Sinatra tribute artist, swept four awards at the recent Independent Red Carpet Music Awards in Europe.
Submissions from artists in 38 countries were considered during the judging process. Awards were given to the top one percent.
The accolades he received included the esteemed Tribute Artist of the Year award, honouring his dedication to recreating the magic of Sinatra. Additionally, his heartfelt rendition of classic tunes earned him the Cover Song of the Year and Easy Listening Song of the Year awards. The fourth award, Extraordinary Musical Voice of the Year, showcases the unique vocal quality that makes him a standout in the tribute artist genre.
“I am truly honoured to receive these awards,” said Rick. “They represent not only my hard work, but the love and passion I have for keeping Frank’s music alive for future generations.”
Kristin Swayze - DD
Kingsville’s Rick Stephenson, a renowned Frank Sinatra tribute artist, received four awards at the Independent Red Carpet Music Awards in Europe. He is pictured here with two of the awards. Photo submitted
Hutchinson honoured for 70 years
Leamington centenarian Bill Hutchinson was honoured by his fellow Kiwanis Club members on Thursday, November 7 as they marked his long-time service with a 70-year certificate. Bill and his late wife Audrian were instrumental in the founding of the Kiwanis Camp on County Road 20 and both spent countless hours at the camp, helping to maintain the grounds and buildings. Top left, Bill was presented with his 70-year certificate by Kiwanis Division 3 Lieutenant Governor Richard Felton and then posed for a photo with local Kiwanis members (bottom left). In the back row, from left, are Ed Kudroch, James Ives, Maryanne Ives, Tracy Bergen, Laurie Edh. In front are Kiwanis President Jamie Wiper, honouree Bill Hutchinson and Kiwanis Lieutenant Governor Richard Felton.
SUN photos
Nominations open for Conservation Awards
Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) is seeking nominees who have made a significant environmental impact in the Windsor-Essex region. The annual awards will be presented to individuals or organizations in four categories:
• The Youth Award recognizes a youth leader who has undertaken conservation projects and is a student in the elementary or secondary schools of the region.
• The Education Award is for excellence in educating and engaging others about conservation issues and initiatives.
• The Volunteer Award is for outstanding effort in volunteering time and services for conservation programs and projects.
• The Environmental Achievement Award is for programs or projects which have enhanced the region’s sustainability in a significant way. In addition to individuals or organizations, municipalities can also be nominated for environmental achievements.
Nominations can be submitted online at essexregionconservation.ca/awards. Nominations close on Friday, December 13, 2024.
Christmas Service of Remembrance Christmas Service of Remembrance
opinion ~ expression ~ and other musings
Cleaning out the closet was tough
I made the tough decision last weekend to discard some things I’d been holding onto for way too long and, while it hurt to say goodbye to those things, we’re a little lighter in the ‘needless stuff’ department now.
As I pulled my hockey bag out of the closet where it has sat for almost five years, I almost shed a tear, with the intention of hauling it out to the dumpster and cre-
1972
ating more space in the closet.
My first hockey bag was a true duffle bag handed down from our neighbour, Joy Balkwill, whose boys had outgrown their gear and were now adults.
It was a long brown canvas bag with a drawstring on the open end and inside was an old pair of leather gloves and an old leather helmet. The helmet was special.
It had a leather-covered piece on the front and another on the back, with straps holding them together and a little leather circle that sat right at the apex of the head, holding those straps in place.
It was a Cooper work of art that I wish I still had — if for nothing else — for a conversation piece.
Over the years, things changed. The new helmet when I was seven was three pieces and was
Chev pickup like new again
Fifty-two years ago, John Barnett’s grandparents bought a new Chevy pickup from Ron Hodgins Chev-Olds dealership in Kingsville to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. John was eight and living on the family farm next to Jack Miner’s bird
sanctuary when the truck arrived. The rear bumper was a steel plate with a hole for towing a wagon. At 16, John passed his driver’s test with this truck even though snow made the rear end slide. When
THE OLD CAR DETECTIVE
Bill Sherk
his grandmother died in 1999, the truck became his. Rear-end problems led to storage from 2001 to 2023. During those years, John dreamed of restoring it.
Around 2012, he visited South Dakota with Adam Keller (former AMC dealer) and bought a new cab, front and rear bumpers, and various body parts. He also found a new pickup bed in Fort Erie, Ontario, with David Keller (Adam’s son).
More recently, the original Orange Red was repainted by Joel Louis and the upholstery restored by Carmen Arquette. The truck arrived in John’s driveway in Leamington in September. He plans to visit car shows and cruise nights in 2025.
made of plastic instead of leather. And on it went from there.
And last weekend as I lifted my entire hockey bag into the dumpster, the two helmets inside were destined to never see another head again.
I didn’t open it, so there’s no telling what sounds, sights and smells would have emanated from it if I had done that.
The next trip to the dumpster included my baseball bag and just like that, my sports career was officially over.
I did keep my glove, just in case the grandkids — none of whom currently play the game — wanted to play catch someday.
Inside the bag was my well-worn baseball
spikes that had been glued with Goop a couple of times over the past few years.
Mark Ribble
My baseball career was supposed to end at 60, but thanks to COVID interrupting my 60th year, I played one more season and retired from the Southpoint Men’s Slo-Pitch League in 2022. The shoes were hanging on by a thread –literally.
Also in the bag was the final scorebook from my last season — all dusty and ragged — still containing the names of my teammates and the results of their final at-bats.
My batting glove and a roll of toilet paper — for those that know me well
— in case of an emergency. They’re all gone. And so as I sit back in my rocking chair and pull the blanket up a little tighter to my chest, preparing to watch re-runs of The Waltons and The Carol Burnett Show on the TV, I can think back to all of those sports years, all of my teammates and the kids I coached later and be thankful for those who crossed my path. In the words of The Boss, “Glory days, yeah they’ll pass you by.” And indeed, they have.
Down in Jamaica they got....
Do you remember Stephen Bishop?
Born on November 14, 1951, his life was also captivated by the arrival of the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show back on February 9, 1964.
As a young teenager, he originally began playing a clarinet but begged his brother to buy him a guitar after he saw the Beatles perform that night.
Speaking of guitars, 1964 turned out to be the first year ever, when the sale of guitars outsold pianos.
A few years later, Stephen Bishop formed his own group called The Weeds, which was sort of a British Invasion-style band.
With little success, Stephen moved to Los Angeles where he began looking for a solo recording contract.
Nothing came easy for Stephen. In fact, over a very lean eight-year period, he was rejected by just about every label and producer.
But continuing to write songs, he eventually got a job making $50 a week writing for a publishing house.
And then Stephen got a break when a friend, Leah Kunkel, gave Art Garfunkel one of Bishop’s demo tapes. Garfunkel chose two of his songs, Looking for the Right One and The Same Old Tears on a New Background, to record for his platinum selling album Breakaway.
FLASHBACK RADIO
with Chuck Reynolds
With Garfunkel’s support, Bishop secured a recording contract with ABC Records in 1976.
Bishop’s first album, Careless, included two of his biggest hits, Save It For A Rainy Day and On and On.
Save It For A Rainy Day reached number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart, while On and On went all the way up to Number 11.
With help from Eric Clapton, Chaka Khan and Art Garfunkel, Careless reached 34th on the Billboard albums chart.
Stephen went on to write and perform music for many feature films.
In 1978, Careless went gold for Bishop as well his next album, Bish, that was released in 1978.
Bishop’s next big hit single in 1982 was It Might Be You, which reached number 25 and was penned by Dave Grusin, Alan Bergman and Marilyn Bergman. Bishop’s song, Separate Lives, sung by Phil Collins and Marilyn Martin, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song for the movie White Nights. It lost out to Say You, Say Me from the same film. While he has appeared in movies, his first love has always been writing songs.
In fact, Eric Clapton has noted in his own autobiography that Bishop is one of his favourite singer-songwriters. To mention a few more, many of Bishop’s songs have been recorded by others. They include One More Night with Helen Reddy, Donna Please with Steve Perry and Give It Half A Chance with Kenny Loggins.
John Barnett’s restored 1972 Chev pickup, originally owned by his grandparents.
WHEATLEY LIONS CLUB DONATES TO HOSPICE
Wheatley Lions Club recently made donations of $3,000 to the Chatham-Kent Hospice and $3,000 to Leamington Erie Shores Health Foundation from monies raised through their annual 50/50 Draw. From left to right are Madison Stoyanovich, Executive Assistant, Erie Shores Health Foundation (Hospice), ESHF Executive Director Penny Bellhouse, Wheatley Lions Club Treasurer Geri Vary and Lions President Bob Springthorpe. Photo submitted
DOG SHOW ATTRACTS NUMEROUS ENTRIES
The Windsor All Breed Training and Tracking Club (WABTTC) held Rally Obedience Trails at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex’s gymnasium November 15-17. The dog show included 70 entries of various dog breeds in four obedience trials and around 90 dogs in the rally trials. The WABTTC is also participating in the annual “Mo-vember” fundraiser by donating 50 percent from trial fundraisers and 50 percent from a raffle to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Canada. The WABTTC will be donating $435 to the men’s urology program at Erie Shores HealthCare from the Leamington event.
Above, Barbara Farrah of Essex with Tap, a Flat Coated Retriever, who took home ribbons for high trial open B in both Saturday and Sunday events. SUN photo by
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 324 and Ladies Auxiliary would like to express sincere thanks and appreciation to the people of Wheatley and Leamington and the surrounding area for the generous show of support received during the 2024 Poppy Campaign and Remembrance Day Service.
We would also like to acknowledge and thank the following:
• Clergy, 21 Windsor Support COY - 31 Service Battalion, Essex & Kent Scottish Regiment, Leamington Air Cadet Squadron 535, students from area schools and all others for their participation in the Remembrance Day ceremonies.
• Those who sponsored wreaths.
• Local schools, businesses, churches, groups and individuals for their Remembrance Day tributes and programs.
• The groups, businesses and individuals who made donations to the Poppy Trust Fund.
• All who displayed Poppy Boxes at their facilities.
• Special thanks to the Leamington Remembrance Day CommitteeJerry Ribble, Mark Ribble, Butch Rickeard, Dina Riccio, Greg McIntosh and Bruce Medcalf for organizing and leading the service in Leamington.
Deanna Bertrand
Goodfellows by the numbers
By Mark Ribble
When the Leamington-Mersea Goodfellows get together to plan their annual Holiday Food Basket Campaign, the effort, attitude and genuine care for the community at large is evident from each and every conversation.
And those conversations eventually turn to numbers, as the need in the community rises and the cost of groceries for families escalates at this time of year.
It’s those numbers — based on previous years’ campaigns, that guide the planning of such an undertaking, all of which takes place over a 10-day period.
Here are some of the numbers that the campaign experiences and what’s expected each year.
215 — In 2023, there were 215 families and/or individuals who received food, which was up from 140 in 2022.
10,000 — the number of cans of goods received from suppliers — four local canning plants donate those 10,000 cans of various food.
3,500 — the number of canned goods collected by about 60 Leamington District Secondary School students from local homes on their annual can drive.
2,000 — the number of dry goods (pasta, rice, etc.) collected by those same students on their can drive.
3,360 — various grocery items purchased by the Goodfellows with money donated to the organization. They typically buy 14 grocery items for each
basket.
674 — bushel baskets prepared with canned goods, dry goods and grocery items.
215 — bushel baskets filled with donated fresh produce from nine local greenhouses.
215 — frozen turkeys purchased by the Goodfellows with money donated to the cause.
215 — 10 lb bags of potatoes purchased by the Goodfellows with the money donated.
215 — shopping bags of treats, snacks and other groceries.
10 — the number of days from the start of the campaign to the finish — it runs from December 4 through 14.
26 — drivers/delivery teams making deliveries on December 14.
Happy 70thAnniversary MIKE &
MARY BINDER
November 20, 2024
5 — large trucks picking up palleted donations.
50+ — volunteers over the 10-day period to sort, pack and distribute canned, dry and grocery items.
All of these numbers total up to 1,104 bushel baskets filled with all a family or individual would need to have a well-nourished Christmas season.
Non-perishable food donations are currently being accepted at the Leamington Municipal Building and the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre.
Those in need of help are asked to apply in person at the Leamington Municipal Building, 111 Erie Street North, Leamington, prior to November 29, every Tuesday and Thursday from 1-4 pm.
In Memory of a Loving husband, father, grandfather, brother & friend Craig MCCarty
October 1, 1949 – November 24, 1999
Remember him with a smile today, he was not one for tears. Reflect instead on memories of all the happy years. Recall to mind the way he spoke, and all the things he said. His strength, his stance, the way he walked - remember this instead. The good advice he’d give us, his eyes that shone with laughter. So much of him will never die, but live on forever after. Always in our thoughts. Forever in our hearts. Love, your family
Kingsville adopts short-term rental by-law
Kingsville Town Council adopted a by-law to license, regulate and govern Short-Term Rentals (STRs) at its November 4 regular meeting.
Short-term rentals are structures, or part thereof, used for temporary lodging for a rental period of 28 consecutive days or less in exchange for payment. STRs include bed and breakfasts, hotels, motels and inns. Short-term accommodations without payment are not considered STRs.
Operators must obtain and maintain an annual licence to operate a Short-Term Rental. Applications for a licence require a fire inspection, criminal record check and certificate of insurance.
The by-law also identifies occupancy limits, distance separation requirements between licensed STRs (300 metres), and on-site parking requirements. Operators that pay a commercial property tax rate are exempt from occupancy limits. STRs located in the downtown STR area (Main Street Corridor) are exempt from the parking requirements and distance separation.
Existing STRs will be grandfathered in and exempt from parking requirements and distance separation only if they were operating before the passage of the by-law on November 4 and they apply for a licence before March 31, 2025.
The town will begin accepting applications once administration has finalized the application process and will share more information on the application process when it is available.
November 21, 2023
Your Family
Your Family
CK meeting will discuss Ward Boundary Review
StrategyCorp has presented their findings and options for new Chatham-Kent Council composition and ward boundaries in the municipality.
Chatham-Kent has grown and evolved since the current ward boundaries were drawn 25 years ago at amalgamation. This review aims to provide a design concept of a Council and ward boundary structure that considers the Chatham-Kent of today and expected population growth through the 2026 and 2030 elections.
The goal of any changes made to ward boundaries would be to enhance the current level of effectiveness of representation for all residents.
The public will have an opportunity to provide input and feedback on all the options through an upcoming public engagement session at the John D. Bradley Convention Centre on Monday, November 25 at 6 p.m. in Meeting Room 1A. The first meeting was held November 14.
The public engagement session will include a presentation by StrategyCorp, followed by allotted time for public deputations. The in-person meeting will be live streamed over the municipal Facebook and YouTube channels.
There is also a survey on the Council Composition and Ward Boundary Review Let’s Talk Page. For more information on this Review and how you can get involved, visit https://www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/ council-composition-and-ward-boundary-review
THERAPEUTIC LASER...
Collecting pajamas for children in hospital
Many children who have to spend Christmas in hospital will benefit from the charitable efforts of two Essex County girls.
Friends Megan Patrick, age 8 of Stoney Point, and Lauren Meadows, age 9 of Comber, are teaming up again this year to collect pajamas for children who will spend Christmas in the hospital.
This charitable initiative came to fruition because of Megan’s own experience of spending Christmas in the hospital. In 2018, Megan was diagnosed with leukemia on Christmas Eve and needed to start treatment immediately, resulting in her spending Christmas in the hospital.
Being in the hospital for Christmas took away from the magic of the holiday so Megan decided to start donating pajamas so other children who were spending Christmas in the hospital would be able to wear festive pajamas, bringing some magic of the season to an otherwise difficult time.
In 2022, Megan was diagnosed with leukemia for a second time and her friend Lauren decided to ask for pajama donations in lieu of birthday presents.
Last Christmas, the pair teamed up to donate more than 500 pairs of pajamas to hospitals from Windsor to Toronto, including Erie Shores HealthCare in Leamington.
This year, Megan and Lauren have set a goal of collecting enough pajamas so they can donate a pair to every child in Ontario who will spend Christmas in the hospital.
In Leamington, pajamas (new with tags only) can
be dropped off at Erie Shores Hospice - 197 Talbot Street West, Suite 701 until December 12th.
To make a monetary donation that will help with the purchase of new pajamas, e-transfers can be sent to jm.patrick@hotmail.ca or call 519-551-7757 for pick up.
Friends Megan Patrick, left, and Lauren Meadows, right, are collecting pajamas for children who will spend Christmas in hospital. Photo submitted
Shirley Bigelow
Shirley Bigelow passed away peacefully on Monday, November 18, 2024, at the age of 92. Reunited with her husband, Dr. William “Bill” Bigelow (1989). Beloved mom of David (Lori) Bigelow and Lucy (Bill) Coppola. Proud grandma of Cecily Coppola (Shane Curtis), Austin Coppola and Mia Coppola, and great-grandmother of Hawke Willan, River Curtis and Ella Curtis. She will be sincerely missed by her nieces, nephews and extended family.
Shirley was a teacher, a proud supporter of her husband in his family practice and volunteered over 40 years at Leamington District Memorial Hospital. She had a strong faith and was a lifelong congregate of Leamington United Church.
We would like to extend a thank you to all the staff and volunteers at Erie Shores Hospice for their amazing care of Shirley during her stay.
In kindness, donations may be made to Save the Children Canada or a charity of your choice.
As per Shirley’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family service will be held. Arrangements entrusted to Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington 519326-2631.
Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Thomas William McCormick
Thomas William “Bill” McCormick, 91 years old, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 with his family by his side.
Bill was the loving husband of Lorraine (Robinson) with whom he shared 62 years of marriage. Adored father to Nola McQueen (Shawn). Proud grandpa to Cassandra McQueen and Colin McQueen (Charlotte). Bill will also be missed by his brothers Cliff (Winsome), Ron (late Lavina), Jerry Bembridge (Maxine) and Larry Bembridge. Predeceased by his brother Robert “Bud” (Joyce) and his sister Rose Marie Terron. Many nieces and nephews lovingly called him Uncle Bill.
Bill grew up in Leamington and was a proud employee of the HJ Heinz Company of which he worked 28 years. He will be forever remembered for being a kind and loving gentleman who was very proud of his wife, daughter and grandchildren.
The family would like to thank the people at Rosewood Erie Glen and at Erie Shores Hospice, and the many support workers and caregivers for their compassionate care of Bill. They also extend their gratitude to many friends, relatives and neighbours for their love, kindness and support.
At Bill’s request, cremation has taken place. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Erie Shores Hospice are greatly appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to Cremation First (Leamington) 519-398-9188.
Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.cremationfirst.ca
For assistance in placing an obituary in the Southpoint Sun call 519-398-9098 or email sun@southpointsun.ca
Dr. John G. Clement
Proof
of
obituary to run
October 3, 1948 – November 11, 2024
November 20, 2024 Southpoint Sun
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. John G. Clement on Monday, November 11, 2024 at Southbridge Care Home, Kemptville, Ontario, surrounded by his loving family.
$200 plus $26 HST = $226
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca Thanks.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of 37 years, Deanna; his sons Matthew John (Jinhee Jeong) Clement and Andrew James (Amelia Elizabeth Leighton) Clement, and step-daughters Kristi Erin Bangs (William Howard Fraser) and Vikki Lee Booth; grandchildren Ella Min Clement, Declan Hunter Clement and Eamon Archer Clement, Jack Brydon Fraser and Evelyn Rose Fraser, Reece Taylor Kmiecik and Joshua James Kmiecik. He is also survived by his siblings Darlene (Henry) Penner, Doug (Margaret) Clement, Sharon (the late Tim) Stevenson and Michael (MaryAnn) Clement. He was predeceased by his father and brother-in-law, as well as his father-in-law and mother-in-law John and Dorothy Beierbach, and brother-in-law Doug Beierbach.
John, affectionately known to many as Johnny or Doc, was born in South Porcupine, Ontario, to Marion Cecilia Earl Clement and the late Reginald Bradford Clement.
He was educated in Ontario, eventually earning his doctoral degree in toxicology and pharmacology from Western University. John made his way west to Medicine Hat, Alberta, in 1975 where he worked at DRES (Defence Research Establishment Suffield) as a research scientist until 1995. He was also involved with the Medicine Hat Hospital Board for a couple of years, and briefly, a City Alderman. In 1995 John’s second career began when he moved into Business Development with BioChem Pharma in Montreal, Quebec, then with QLT Therapeutics in Vancouver, BC, and eventually a partner in his own company, iCo Therapeutics Inc. In 2011 he returned to Montreal and became a partner in AmorChem. He was newly retired in 2020 and diagnosed with Dementia and Aphasia in summer of 2021.
Proof of obituary to run
November 20, 2024 Southpoint Sun
$200 plus $26 HST = $226
Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca Thanks.
John’s leisure hours were spent curling, the love of which began in high school and continued for most of his lifetime. Other favourite hobbies were trap shooting, hunting and slo-pitch baseball. He loved travelling and meeting new people. A storyteller with an endless curiosity about the world, he is now travelling freely in spirit. He will be remembered always for his love, kindness and indelible impact on those around him.
In accordance with his wishes, no public service will be held. A small family memorial will be held at later date.
Victor Henry Huebert
Proof of obituary to run November 20, 2024 Southpoint Sun $200 plus $26 HST = $226 Any changes please email sun@southpointsun.ca Thanks.
Victor Henry Huebert, 84 years old, died peacefully on Monday, November 11, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife and three daughters. He was born in Windsor on February 13,1940 to Cornelius and Nettie Huebert.
Victor was the loving husband of Helen (nee Froese) with whom he shared 58 years of marriage. Adored dad of Jenny Enns (late Paul) (Eric Griggs), Jodi Huebert (Joerg Lindner) and Martha Pena. Proud grandpa to Amanda Enns (Connor Huxman), Camryn Enns (Connie Sanders), Alex Pena and Siena Pena. Brother to Bill Huebert (Betty) and brother-in-law to the late Hilda Klassen (late George), Richard Froese, Kathy Epp (Dick), Ron Froese (Diane). Many nieces and nephews lovingly called him Uncle Vic.
Victor grew up in Windsor, where he attended elementary school. He was forever grateful to his parents for bringing him to UMEI for his secondary school education. He attended the University of Windsor and the University of Western Ontario and became a successful teacher. He taught at Kingsville District High School for 27 years. Victor also started and operated Speedprint, a local print shop, and served as board chair for UMEI, Et Cetera Shoppe (which became Thrift on Mill) and the Essex Kent Mennonite Historical Association.
Victor was a devoted husband, dad, grandpa and friend. He was a dedicated educator who loved to teach, learn and ask questions. He was a committed volunteer, entrepreneur and business owner, and a strong advocate for wind turbines and solar energy. Victor was a man of ideas and dreams with the energy to see them through. In addition to teaching, he loved to travel, vacation in Mexico, keep fit, spend time with friends and family, ride his bike, scooter, Karmann Ghia, and finally an electric car.
The family would like to thank the kind people at Ontario Health atHome, Bayshore HealthCare, Harrow Health Care, the PSP Clinic at Toronto Western Hospital, and the many support workers and caregivers for their compassionate care of Victor. They also extend their gratitude to many friends, relatives and neighbours for their love, kindness and support.
In memory of Victor, memorial donations may be made to his two passions: UMEI or Mennonite Central Committee.
Visitation was held at Reid Funeral Home, 14 Russell Street, Leamington, 519-326-2631, on Thursday, November 14, 2024 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
A Memorial Service took place at North Leamington United Mennonite Church, 625 Road 6, Leamington, on Friday November 15, 2024 at 11 a.m.
Community Calendar
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30
PARVAIM-CENTRAL LODGE AND ERIE CHAPTER OES
ANNUAL TURKEY DINNER at 6:00 p.m. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. 30 Laird, Essex. $25 - Advance tickets only. Call Dale 705-872-8925.
of Vegetable Gardening. All welcome to an evening of horticultural fun, fellowship and a chance to win a door prize. For more info: Jo-Anne Smith 519-322-8809.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR at St. John The Evangelist Church, 60 Erie St. N. Leamington, 10:00 a.m.3:00 p.m. Vendors, door prizes, lunch available for purchase. Proceeds from door prizes go to Community Outreach Program. Everyone welcome.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28
COFFEE HOUSE at 1860 Division Rd. North, Kingsville, presented by Kingsville Community Centre featuring live entertainment, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Free event, family friendly, refreshments available.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30
HOT CHOCOLATE & COOKIES - Courtesy of Community Meals & Pantries, St. John's Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N. Leamington. Join us at the Christmas Parade (washroom facilities available). Free-will donations accepted in support of our Community Outreach Ministries.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1
SOLI DEO GLORIA SINGERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT at 3:00 p.m., Leamington United Mennonite Church, 78 Oak St. E. Suggested donation $20. Everyone welcome.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15
LESSONS AND CAROLS at St. John The Evangelist Church, 60 Erie St. N. Leamington, 10:30 a.m. Lunch to follow. Everyone welcome.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE at St. John The Evangelist Church, 60 Erie St. N. Leamington, 7:00 p.m. Everyone welcome.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25
CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE at St. John The Evangelist Church, 60 Erie St. N. Leamington, 11:00 a.m. Dinner to follow. Everyone welcome. ONGOING
HURON FARMWORKERS MINISTRY takes place
Thursday afternoons at 4:00 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington. Workers can access a simple meal, clothing, food items, spiritual care and employment/immigration information. The program is in need of used or new bicycles to assist workers with transportation. Contact Deacon Deborah Wilson-Safa at 519-326-3111.
URSA MAJOR’S LITTLE BEAR CAFE COMMUNITY BREAKFAST
Photos by Paul Forman
This crew was all decked out in their Santa hats just before the parade. From left, Steven Belanger, James Stannard, Katie Stannard, William Stannard, Charlie Stannard, Jedi Suznevich and Todd Suznevich. Excitement filled the Lakeside Park pavilion as the switch was thrown on to open the Fantasy of Lights.
Having just played princesses on a float in the parade, these two young ladies made their way down to the Fantasy of Lights display. At left is Lauren DeJong along with her sister Morgan.
Pictured above are just some of the dazzling displays at Kingsville’s Fantasy of Lights.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to cooking.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, put aside any errant musings and give important tasks your utmost attention this week. Energy is better spent on others, so keep this in mind when you get busy.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, your coworkers are all excited and fussing over a new development. Maintain an even keel as you assess the situation. You can be curious, but be guarded as well.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, your love life is in a really good place this week, which enables you to spend some quality time with your special someone. A romantic dinner sounds like a good plan.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Your partner is the most important person in your life right now, Cancer. So much so that this week every bit of your attention will be focused his or her way.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, money could be burning a hole in your pocket, so you might want to go on a spending spree. Keep in mind that there are a few big-ticket purchases waiting in the wings.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
You don’t always have to be decisive, Virgo. Sometimes you can kick back and let someone else make decisions for a change. This is a great way to rest and recharge.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
A few jobs need to get done, Libra. But afterwards you should have plenty of time for some social interaction, whether that be attending a party or simply enjoying a night out.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, think about the things you want instead of what other people want. It’s alright to be a little selfish once in a while and put yourself first for a change.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, you could have fun this week and so may all the other people around you simply for being in your presence. This situation will continue in the days ahead.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, the next challenge on your list could be a big one. But if there is anyone who can handle the pressure, it is you. Don’t be afraid to call on friends if you need them.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, go out into the world and try a few new things. Your social energy and curiosity might peak this week, and you’ll need new experiences to feel satisfied.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Your finances might need an overhaul, Pisces. This could mean taking a new job or expanding what you’re doing to earn more. Start putting out feelers to gain information.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
NOVEMBER 17 - Danny Devito, Actor (80)
NOVEMBER 18 - Owen Wilson, Actor (56)
NOVEMBER 19 Calvin Klein, Designer (82)
NOVEMBER 20 - Jeremy Jordan, Actor (40)
NOVEMBER 21 - Carly Rae Jepsen, Singer (39)
NOVEMBER 22 - Hailey Bieber, Model (28)
NOVEMBER 23 - Miley Cyrus, Singer (32)
HELP WANTED EVENTS
JINGLE BELL BAKE SALE & LUNCHEON Saturday, November 30, 9:00 a.m.1:30 p.m. at Faith Reformed Church, 1115 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville (at Graham Side Road). no20
ZEN PETS GROOMINGCPPS Certified Groomer in Leamington. 15 years experience. For all your pet grooming needs, please call or text 519-564-9620 or message me on Facebook.
COVID-19 certified & compliant. mr1-tfn
ELECTROLUX SALES & SERVICE: Complete line of vacuums and shampooers/ floor polishers. Will provide free estimate on Central Vac installations. Contact Dan Bailey. 519-322-8625. tf
IRWIN PLUMBINGResidential rough-ins and repairs. Starting April 2nd 519-825-7245 will be changing to 519-324-2202. A text is preferred if capable. Call if not.
Available January 1st. Dishwasher, stove, fridge and in-unit washer and dryer included. Call 519-796-3988. oc30-tf
CAMELOT SHIRES APARTMENTS
Secure Building.
2 Bedroom Apt.-$2000/mth Available December 1st, Utilities Included except cable/phone. Fridge, Stove & Dishwasher Included. Free Parking. First & Last Required. Call 519-965-4014
PINNACLE ACRES REQUIRES Full time greenhouse general labourers. $17.20/hr 50+ hours, 7 days/wk. Must be available Saturday & Sunday. Work site: 333 County Rd 18, Leamington ON, rural setting, must have own transportation. Crop maintenance and harvesting, other duties as required. Must be able to lift a minimum of 40lbs on a repetitive basis, fast paced environment, strong work ethic, punctual, reliable. No experience or education required. Please apply via email: careers@ pinnacle-acres.com
JANUARY 28, 2025 6:30 pm at the Village Resource Centre All
Tuesday, December 10 6:30 pm at 136 Middleton Line, Wheatley ON Everyone
Phone: 519-733-2305
www.kingsville.ca
RATE BY-LAW
TAKE NOTICE that the Council of The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville will consider amendments to the following By-laws:
• Fees and Charges By-law 089-2024
• Water and Sewage Rate By-law 090-2024
at the Regular Council Meeting on: Monday, November 25, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.
A Summary of the Proposed Amendments is available online at www.kingsville. ca/fees. Please call the Municipal Office if you require a printed copy. Any written comments must be received by 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 25, 2024.
Members of the public can attend the Council meeting in person or virtually at www.kingsville.ca/livestream. Comments which are made at the meeting become part of the public record which is available for anyone to view on the Town of Kingsville website.
Margaret Schroeder, Manager of Financial Services The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville 2021 Division Road North Kingsville, Ontario N9Y 2Y9
courtesy of the Kingsville Archives
kingsvillearchives@gmail.com
Leamington’s Past courtesy of the C. Scott Holland Collection
Clippings from the Wheatley Journal
November 1994 - The East Mersea students were a captive audience when author Joellen
made a day-long visit to the school. The well-known Canadian author who writes children’s books spent several sessions with various age groups to inspire and encourage their literary talents.
Dennis Jackson: A Leamington legend
By C. Scott Holland
He’s been gone for over six years now, but the name Dennis Jackson brings back many fond memories of life around Leamington and its former H.J. Heinz plant from the mid-1960s until 2018.
On December 17, 1964, life at the local factory changed as two new employees began their long careers at Leamington’s largest employer. Dennis Jackson and friend Robert Shaw were thrilled when they were hired. For Dennis it was a continuation of his childhood passion: the H.J. Heinz Co.
On the second day working in the thermal processing area of the factory, Dennis elatedly told Robert, “I actually like this job.”
Five years later it was only Dennis in the sterilizing area and he remained at that position for the next 30 years.
Even the number 57 was prevalent in Dennis’ life. “I lived at 57 Lamarsh in Wheatley, my time clock number was 7755, my phone number starts with a five and ends with a seven and my Wheatley Oldtimers’ hockey jersey is number 57!”
His Heinz collection began with discarded and unwanted factory items and began growing as he located memorabilia people had or sold at yard sales. Jackson’s collection was so large that it contained well over 10,000 pieces, plus another 10,000 plus labels from various
products the company produced here and throughout its world-wide factories.
For well over a decade, a small selection of items from his vast collection was displayed at the Leamington Arts Centre with the displays changed every few months. The collection became an entry in the Guinness Book of World Records too.
The exhibit became a popular attraction, from being highlighted on shows like CBC Radio and TV, Farmers’ Journal, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not and Wayne Rostad’s On The Road Again. As well, newspaper articles about it appeared in the Leamington Post, Windsor Star and Washington Post.
After Dennis and his friend Robert Shaw retired in 1998, he became the manager/operator of the company’s Keystone Gift Shop which sold clothing and memorabilia to employees and the public. Plus, his restored 1949 International truck was painted white and black to emulate the Heinz delivery vehicles of the 1950s and ‘60s. Friends Bill Sherk and the late Kurt Gossen aided Dennis in acquiring the truck. He could often be seen cruising around Leamington and the county in the vehicle. He was Heinz Canada’s historian and without his immense knowledge, photographs and collection, the company’s centennial book in 2009 could not have been written.
The boats could be taken through the placid canal or out into the rougher waters of Lake Erie. This photograph of an unidentified family, standing outside the Cedar Beach Drug Store, was taken in the late 1940s or early 1950s.
Photo
Bogart
The Hellems House, located at the northwest corner of Division and Mill Street West, was the home of W. H. Hellems, publisher of the Kingsville Reporter from 1893 to 1938.
From the 1920s until the early 1970s Leamington’s Public Utilities Commission offices were situated in this building on Princess. It was razed and the land became a parking area for the new Leamington Post building.
Dennis in front of the iconic 57 logo which had been on the outside of the Heinz building for many years. The numbers were a small part of Dennis’ vast Heinz collection of which various items were rotated at an exhibit in the Leamington Art Gallery.
Dennis Jackson (left) and his best friend Robert Shaw began and ended their Heinz careers on the same day. Here they are seen outside the factory on their final day.
Flyers’ undefeated streak hits 16 games
By C. Scott Holland
The Leamington Flyers extended their undefeated streak to 16 consecutive games with wins last week over Stouffville, Collingwood and Caledon.
The visiting Stouffville Spirit gave the Leamington Flyers some headaches during last Thursday’s game in front of 981 fans, with most of it occurring when the Flyers found themselves down 1-0 in the game’s first half.
The lone Stouffville marker came in the opening frame when Evan Breckles pounced upon a rebound and put it past Tre Altiman.
The Flyers offense began to show their true form in the second as they planted 16 shots on Downey that included two of their four goals. The Flyers broke Downey’s shutout bid at 11:29 when Colton Smith found Brayden Degelas wide open as he closed in on Downey from the left lane. Degelas’ shot found the target and evened the score at 1-1.
Some hard work and an intercepted pass combined to spot the Flyers their second goal as Mason Landry intercepted a Spirit passing play and hooked with Ashton Darocy. Darocy flipped a pass to Colton Smith who gunned his 28th goal of the campaign.
Holding a slim 2-1 lead heading into the third, the game resumed its tug-ofwar like tenacity. It was the Flyers who notched it at 12:05 when Carter Gillen and Darocy sent Brody Cook down the left lane where he unleashed a cannon shot that sailed past Downey for a 3-1 edge.
Leamington sealed the win at 19:14 when Gavin Grundner raced from deep in his own end zone
to the Spirit zone and banked an empty-net goal from the left lane.
On Friday night in Collingwood, the game went into overtime and the Flyers won 2-1. The Flyers took a precious 1-0 lead at 7:03 of the first when Mason Landry set up Daniel Vasic’s tally, and until Marcus Lougheed’s extra goal at 19:49 it appeared that Marcus Vandenberg and the Flyers would win 1-0. In the first overtime period, the Flyers outshot the Blues 3-1 and got the winner at 3:47 of the second three-on-three OT when Anthony Ciaramitaro deposited Griffin Grundner’s rebound.
Head coach Dale Mitchell talked about Leamington’s two consecutive night games last week. “We played good hockey in those two games. Stouffville came out and challenged us. Our group responded well and we played solid hockey over the last 40 minutes.”
Regarding the tight contest versus the Blues, he said, “In Collingwood we played well and fought through adversity. We arrived late, then we had to kill off a 5-on-3 situation. Unfortunately, I didn’t challenge their (lone) goal. It never crossed the line, but I was unsure whether to challenge since, if we were wrong, we’d go
shorthanded.”
Back at home on Sunday versus the Caledon Admirals, the Flyers rolled out to a 5-1 victory, playing their third game in four nights. They led 2-0, then 3-0 as starter Marcus Vandenberg got the win after losing his shutout bid late in the third period. Michael Denney, Gavin Grundner, Mason Landry, Colton Smith and Brody Cook tabbed the Flyers’ goals.
On Tuesday and Wednesday this week (Nov. 19 and 20), several Flyers players and staff are participating in the Battle of Ontario – a tournament style game of two period games featuring two All-Star teams and two Prospects teams from the OJHL and Central Canada H.L. Flyers head coach Dale Mitchell is among the coaches, while players Marcus Vanden berg, Gavin Grundner, Colton Smith, Tre Altiman and Anthony Ciaramitaro are All-Star team mem bers. Michael Denney is an alternate and Lan don Bernard has to miss the contests due to inju ry. Joining the Prospects squads are Brody Smith and Ashton Darocy. A to tal of 12 games are being played during the two days in Smiths Falls.
The Flyers will play the Niagara Falls Canucks at 7:10 p.m. this Thursday.
Junior Hockey League West Conference Standings
Sharks swarm Admirals, fall to Blades
By Greg Coulter
The Wheatley Omstead Sharks split a pair of home and away matches last week.
Wednesday, November 13 at home, they took advantage of first and last-minute tallies to open a 2-0 lead at the first intermission. Kyle Bleau opened the scoring just
23 seconds in with Stefan Jacobs contributing in the final seconds.
They doubled the lead after two on a second goal by Jacobs with Owen Papulkas padding the lead to 4 zip. Vito Alfano and Seth Zylstra scored 40 seconds apart midway through the third, while Kyle Bleau added a pow-
er play marker to complete the 7-0 romp. Jaxon Drysdale shut the door with 29 saves. Forwards and defence added to their points totals earning 12 assists.
“We came out and played like we needed to, took control from the puck drop and kept our feet moving and competed,” said Coach Josh Carnevale.
FOR JAZZ & WORLD MUSIC LOVERS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29 @ 7:00 PM
Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Tickets $30 + HST CHRISTMAS PARADE
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30
6:00 - 8:00 pm - Warming Centre and Drop off Centre for Toys, Warming and Food Donations! MONARCH CAFÉSONGS & STORIES IN THE ROUND
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13
Doors open at 6:30 pm. Show 7:00 pm. 4 performers$15 or advance VIP with charcuterie $20. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20
Save the date - Dale’s Friday Coffee House returns!
CHRISTMAS WITH PAVLO A TRUE WORLD MUSIC ARTIST
MONDAY DECEMBER 23 @ 7:00 PM
Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Tickets $40 + HST HALFWAY THERE JANUARY 17, 18, 24, 25 @ 7:30
STAY IN THE KNOW!
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube. Email banktheatre@gmail.com Visit BankTheatre.com
10 ERIE ST. S., P.O. BOX 434 LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3W5 519-326-8805
Saturday in Blenheim, the Sharks took part in an emotional opening ceremony honouring former Blades captain Craig Spence who was tragically killed last summer in an auto accident.
The home team roared to a 3-0 lead after one and upped it to 4 before the Sharks closed the gap to 4-2 after two with tallies by Jaydon Ferguson and Kyle Bleau. Special teams
took over in the third with the Blades adding a power play and empty netter to seal a 6-2 victory.
Sharks fired 34 shots with Ethan Handley taking the loss on 27 saves.
“We knew they would come out strong after
the opening ceremony, we tried to battle back but ran out of gas,” said Coach Carnevale.
The Sharks tangle with Dresden on Wednesday at home and return Friday to the Kings castle. Puck drop is 7:30 p.m. The Sharks Christmas draw raffle tickets are now on sale.
Provincial Junior Hockey League West Stobbs Standings
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Sharks’ leading scorer Stefan Jacobs outmuscles an Admirals defender and cooly dekes the netminder to slide home his second of the night. Sharks would skate to a decisive 7-0 victory in their battle to keep pace with third place.
SUN photo by Greg Coulter
Local boxer back in ring after seven-year absence
By Mark Ribble
Leamington boxer Luca Coppola has returned to the ring and is poised to bring his fighting game to the Canadian Elite Nationals this week.
About seven years ago, under the guidance of Kingsville-based boxing coach Doug Patterson, Coppola competed in fights all over Ontario, eventually bringing home the gold medal from the Brampton Cup and the Ontario Golden Gloves.
After taking a break from the boxing world for the past several years, Coppola returned to the ring this past June and fought to a draw against the current Golden Gloves silver medalist.
From that bout, he was invited to the Team Ontario training camp last week in Guelph.
“It was a great experience to compete with the best in Ontario,” he says.
The Cardinal Carter Secondary School graduate is hoping to have a successful run in the ring at 2024 Canadian Elite Boxing Championships in Sarnia this week. In fact, the young Leamingtonian’s first match is 1 pm today (Wednesday) versus Max Tomines of Toronto. If Coppola wins that bout, he is off to the quarter-finals. There are 13 boxers in his division — the 60 kg Elite class.
Luca fights out of the Fighting Island Boxing Club in Amherstburg and his old coach Doug Patterson has stepped in to help him out on a part-time basis.
Intramural sports begin at LDSS
By Emery Stapleton
In this transitional period between sports seasons, the game lovers in Leamington turn to the thrill of intramural sports.
For many years, a proud tradition of the LDSS Lions has been their fierce intramural competitions. With activities ranging everywhere from volleyball to dodgeball to ping pong and pickleball, there is something for everyone. So far this year, dodgeball has been completed with the Superior Joes emerging victorious.
Presently, the volleyball season is upon us. Teams are vying for the coveted intramural trophy, as well as victory t-shirts, and most importantly, eternal bragging rights.
This year, the team to watch will be the teachers. Historically, the teachers have been very successful in volleyball, dodgeball and basketball. What they lack in youthful energy, they make up for in their
strategy and liberal rules interpretations.
After an early round defeat last year, the teachers are looking for redemption on the volleyball court. So far, they are looking strong, going two-for-two in their early games.
This season, all student teams have been limit-
ed to a maximum of two varsity players per team. This rules alteration should level the playing field and make for interesting match ups. Stay tuned for results of the intramural games and Leamington District Secondary School sports teams.
Luca Coppola with his coach and the owner of Fighting Island Boxing Club, Joe Leblanc. Submitted photo
to everyone who participated in our first Trivia Night for Healthcare.
$16,500 Together we raised
County Classic Chorale featuring Dickens
The County Classic Chorale will present ‘A Dickens Christmas’, performing three shows over the next couple of weekends.
The show is directed by Director Emeritus Paul Wharram and Co-Conductor John Woodbridge.
Concerts are November 23 at 7 pm and November 24 at 3 pm, both at Faith Mennonite Church in Leamington, and December 1 at 3 pm at Harrow United Church.
The shows will feature Christmas carols and readings that will conjure up memories of all the Dickens classics. Admission is by donation.
Leamington Bridge scores
The following are the top-scoring teams in recent Bridge games at the Leamington Half Century Centre. Bridge lessons are available. If interested, call 519-738-4939.
Nov. 4: North/South - 1st Dale Smith and Frank Duransky, 2nd Henry Hildebrandt and George Hildebrandt, 3rd Sally Bell and Bob Bell. East/West - 1st Tracy Mitchell-Robinet and Case Mulder, 2nd Monique Sadler and Remi Fournier, 3rd Shirley Morel and Theresa Flynn.
Nov. 8: 1st Derek Parry and Case Mulder, 2nd Roger Cote and Pauline Mikolash, 3rd Henry Hildebrandt and Dale Smith.
Nov. 15: 1st Derek Parry and Case Mulder, 2nd Dale Smith and Rowe Deans, 3rd George Hildebrandt and Henry Hildebrandt.
Kingsville Friendly Club update
Kingsville Friendly Club president Bob Bell welcomed 38 out to play cards at the Unico Centre on November 12.
Scores in Bridge: Roy Trowell 3580, Bert Patrick 3270, Case Mulder 2950. Euchre: Debbie Everaert, Kenny Bachmeier and Willy Fittler 85, John Gerhardt 84, Carrie Schultz 81. Most lone hands: Debbie Everaert and Sally Bell 4. Cribbage: Marie Geeves 937, Stuart Wheelton 930, Sue Girardin 898.
There were 47 members out to play cards on November 15.
Bridge scores: Bert Patrick 3680, Mac Stanley 3680, Bob Bell 3380. Euchre: Willy Fittler 117, John Gerhardt 97, Dawn Tizzard 91. Most lone hands: Rene Everaert 6. Pepper: Bill Fielding 309, Gordon Earl 287, Maggie Hansen and Winnie Moore 255. Most peppers: Bill Fielding 8. Door Prize winners were Nancy Taylor, Liese Sabelli & Gillian Pinkney.
It was also the Annual General Meeting & Election of Officers. The 2025 Officers are President Jean Kuipers, Vice President Dave Patterson, Secretary Debbie Everaert and Treasurer Brenda Anger.
Golden Years mini golf report
There were 58 golfers who played 36 holes of mini golf at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens on Thursday, November 14. They recorded 76 holes in one.
Leading the way with five aces were Keith Hopper and Julia Kos; Bill Ward, Linda Chiasson, Tom Bondy, Tom Hyatt, Walter Balsam and Nick Penzari with 3; and Kathy Bechard, Cherryll Gay, Ron Fick, Ray Foster, Kathy Klym, Theresa Decaluwe, Barb Haas, Denise Munson, Gail Turk, Penny Stewart, Bill Mayville, Grant Raymond, Betty McManus, Bryon Walker, Allan Munson, Zena Raymond and Bob Springthorpe with 2. Sinking one ace each were Gisele Lapointe, Carol Hylton, Greg Broome, Bruce Cooper, Jamie Arquette, Monique Benfield, Penny McMurphy, Tony Hudvagner, Jack Bostin, Carolyn Dufour, Bill Edwards, Lloyd Symons, Randy Nash and Andre Lalonde.
Top score over 18 holes was Bill Ward with 35, followed by Keith Hopper and Walter Balsam with 36, and Bill Ward again with 37. Nine players scored 38: Randy Nash, Ron Fick, Nick Penzari, Bryon Walker, Ray Foster, Tom Hyatt, Bill Edwards, Julia Kos and Zena Raymond. Laurie Hylton, Bill Mayville, Betty McManus, Julia Kos, Allan Munson, Debbie Clinton, Tom Bondy (2) and Lloyd Symons (2) scored 39.
Leading the way over 36 holes was Bill Ward with 72, Keith Hopper and Walter Balsam with 76, and Julia Kos 77. A 78 was scored by Tom Bondy, Lloyd Symons, Randy Nash and Zena Raymond, followed by Debbie Clinton with a 79.
First place went to Team 1 (Larry Hillman, Keith Hopper, Bill Ward, Linda Chiasson) with 230. Second place was Team 15 (Bryon Walker, Allan Munson, Randy Nash, Zena Raymond) with 233. Third place was Team 3 (Laurie Hylton, Cherryll Gay, Tom Bondy, Ron Fick) with 239.
Fun, laughs and also golf continue Thursday, November 21 at 10:30 a.m.
