Satellite hospice opens in Leamington
By Pat Bailey
It took living through a nightmare before Joan McSweeney dreamed of a better ‘end of life’ for both the patient and their families.
While sitting in the waiting room for two hours while her brother Jim Spinx died alone, McSweeney vowed that night to make things better for families and patients suffering similarly.
On Wednesday, McSweeney admitted, with tears in her eyes, the reality was even better than she ever dreamed.
Taking a break from the festivities of the grand opening in the peaceful and the beautifully appointed Erie Shores Campus of the Hospice of Windsor and Essex County on April 6, Joan said, was an emotional time for her. It was the culmination of two years of following through on her promise to her brother — and a passion that carried her through from beginning to Wednesday’s ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration.
For McSweeney, the journey began in 2012 helping Roberta Jarecsni with a feasibility study. Following interviews with about 60 business people, organizations and individuals from Leamington, Kingsville, Wheatley and Harrow, a report was written and taken to the Erie St. Clair LHIN. In 2013, McSweeney said they received overwhelming support from the LHIN and a pledge of funding operating expenses for each bed.
McSweeney said that is when the real work began — the formation of a committee co-chaired by John
Omstead and Cole Cacciavillani, in an effort to raise $6 million. While still a little shy of their goal, McSweeney said the response was phenomenal.
In particular, said McSweeney, a call was put out for artwork to adorn the walls. In less than a week, she said, they had 60 works of art to decorate the new 10-bed facility with.
She is also delighted that the hospice will soon play host to a children’s gallery, with a section reserved to display the artwork of children from Windsor and Essex County.
Despite the time and effort she invested in the project, McSweeney said she wouldn’t have had it any other way. “It was an absolute privilege to be a part of that group,” she said.
She said it was also an honour to be a part of virtually every aspect of construction, along with her husband Terry.
On Wednesday, hundreds turned out to celebrate the grand opening and ribbon cutting on Canada’s first ever satellite residential hospice.
Leamington Mayor John Paterson was smiling from ear-to-ear as he addressed the crowd. “This facility will enhance the lives of many families from this day forward,” said Paterson. The mayor was also thrilled to announce that municipal workers, under the direction of Alex Del Brocco and in collaboration with Sterling Acre Farms Ltd., also managed to complete The Serenity Trail which is located behind the hospice and con-
nects with Leamington’s existing trail network.
“It is the municipality’s vision the Serenity Trail will provide a serene setting of flowers and milkweed designed to create a peaceful sanctuary,” said municipal CEO Peter Neufeld in a press release.
“The trail will allow those seeking the services of the hospice and the families caring for the terminally ill in our community to have a place to go, walk, ponder, breathe, grieve, cry and clear their minds while their loved ones are being cared for in the final stages of life,” added Neufeld, “all close to home.”
What struck most of those addressing the crowd was the coming together of the community in an amaz-
ing show of support for hospice services.
Carol Derbyshire, executive director, applauded the efforts of the county residents. “A group of interested individuals came to us and wanted to partner to bring hospice care to the county,” said Derbyshire. In true hospice style, by working together, we have created Canada’s very first satellite residential home.”
The Erie Shores campus will provide 24/7 residential hospice palliative care services for all residents of Essex County at no cost. The campus is modeled on the existing Windsor hospice and has 10 patient suites, as well as living areas and spaces for caregivers and their families.
“The importance of qual-
ity and compassionate endof-life and palliative care services cannot be understated,” said Gary Switzer, CEO of the Erie St. Clair LHIN.
McSweeney echoes these sentiments. But she also admits there is still work to be done. She said landscaping is yet to be completed and said there are naming opportunities for the sponsorship of gardens.
“It’s just way over the top,” said McSweeney, “it’s more than I ever dreamed could happen in such a short time.”
“Twenty months ago yesterday,” said McSweeney with tears in her eyes, “we launched the campaign — and this was a cornfield…”
Cutting the official ribbon to open Hospice of Windsor Essex, Erie Shores Campus, from left to right, were Ross Barnwell, Executive Director, LDMH Foundation; John Ingratta, LDMH Foundation Director; Cheryl Deter, VP Patient Services/CNE & Integrated Director Hospice Erie Shores Campus; Carol Derbyshire, Hospice of Windsor Essex CEO; and Joan McSweeney, Erie Shores Hospice Capital Campaign.
(SUN Photo)
Blondie’s to again shoot for Autism
By Bryan Jessop
In combining his love of basketball and the drive to support patients of Autism, George Youssef is hoping that the third truly is the charm.
Youssef will make his way back to the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex on Friday, Apr. 15 for his third free-throw shooting fundraiser in support of Autism Ontario’s Windsor-Essex chapter. The upcoming edition of the Blondie’s Shooting Challenge will start at 6 p.m. and run for 20 to 30 minutes and this time around, will feature an interesting twist.
The focal point of this year’s Autism fundraiser will be an attempt by Youssef to sink a shot from the court’s threequarter mark, a distance he estimates to be between 60 and 70 feet. If successful, Blondie’s 2016 Autism Ontario fundraising drive will instantly add another $1,000 to its total.
The one-attempt shot is being sponsored by local insurance agent Danny Farias.
This year’s goal for the Shooting Challenge is $2,000, although Youssef explained that he’d like to see the sum of donations reach about $2,500 as it did in both 2013 and 2014.
“Raising that much before attempting the (three-quarter distance) shot would be a nice bonus,” he explained.
Youssef was initially convinced that he wasn’t going to conduct the Autism fundraiser this year, but was talked into it by a regular Blondie’s customer.
“After that, it just kind of snowballed and I’m just taking it from there,” Youssef noted. “Everybody’s always shown a lot of support for it. I like to give to charity throughout the year, so this is how they give back.”
Youssef has been accepting donations at Blondie’s Restaurant — located at 77 Erie St. North — for the past few weeks. Thus far, customers, area businesses and walk-in traffic have made a steady flow of donations during business hours. The drive is well on its way to reaching the $2,000 goal, although Youssef explained that he’d like to see members of the public attend the Shooting Challenge to drop off additional contributions for the local Autism Ontario branch.
During the challenge, Youssef will be joined on the court for emotional support by Andrew Mallott and Leo Obeid. He began practicing for the three-quarter distance shot in late March and in one session, made the shot on two of 20 attempts. Youssef has also made the shot sporadically during other visits to the LKRC court.
“I get tired fast,” he said of training for the big shot. “Hopefully, luck will be on my side when its time for the real shot.”
Dog registration enforcement door to door
Representatives of the Municipality of Leamington will attend door to door selling dog tags commencing April 19, 2016. The cost of a dog tag is $40 per dog which includes the late fee. Each municipal representative will be identified with a Municipality of Leamington identification nametag.
Everyone who owns or keeps a dog within the Municipality of Leamington must register their dog by purchasing a dog tag. No one is allowed to own more than two dogs or keep more than two dogs on a property unless the property is licensed as an approved dog kennel. Anyone failing to comply with By-law 668-06 may receive a fine.
Information regarding Dog Registration including the Dog Tag Registration Form may be found at www.leamington.ca/ dogs Dog tags may also be purchased at the Leamington Municipal Office, Southpoint Sun 519-398-9098
Queen of Peace slated for closure
By Bryan Jessop
A recommendation to close Queen of Peace Catholic Elementary School in Leamington has been passed.
Following a vote by the Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board’s board of trustees Tuesday, Apr. 5, the decision was made to close Queen of Peace effectively upon the completion of the 2015-16 school year. Although the specific vote results were not officially recorded, WECDSB communications coordinator Stephen Fields explained that the show of hands indicated unanimous support from the nine trustees for the local school’s closure.
“It was a very difficult decision for the trustees to make,” he explained. “There were some compelling arguments (in support of keeping both Leamington Catholic elementary schools open). Every time we got through this, it’s a sad decision. Nobody takes any delight in closing a school. The Queen of Peace community is very sad about the decision and we understand that.”
Fields explained that the increasing number of empty spaces at WECDSB schools has become a serious problem in recent years — one that triggered the closure of St. John Catholic Elementary School in west Windsor and St. Bernard Catholic Elementary School in Amherstburg. The closure of the other two schools was also decided upon with unanimous votes on Apr. 5 at the WECDSB headquarters in Windsor. St. Bernard students will attend Stella Maris in Amherstburg while those at St. John will attend St. James in Windsor. Assumption High School in Windsor will undergo a similar transformation process as Cardinal Carter’s to provide space for a new middle school of Grade 7 and 8 students from St. John and St. James.
While Cardinal Carter undergoes structural modifications necessary to accept Grade 7 and 8 pupils, Queen of Peace will serve as the temporary location of Leamington’s WECDSB middle school. Although a detailed timeline for the start and completion of construction at Cardinal Carter hasn’t yet been specified, the process is expected to take place in the near future.
“We’re ready to hit the ground running,” said Fields. “There’s no definite timeline, but we’re looking at sooner rather than later.”
The six affected elementary schools will address a combined sum of 597 empty spaces, bringing the school board’s combined total to less than 1,000 vacancies. Closing Queen of
Peace will save the school board approximately $1.5 million in expenses while the three closures combined will reduce operating costs by between $7 million and $8 million. Fields noted that such measures are considered seriously by the Ministry of Education before it makes decisions on dispersing consolidation funding. Provincial backing would be used to help retrofit schools that are taking in students affected directly by closures.
“Instead of investing in empty spaces, we’re better off using that money for innovative programs at our schools,” Fields said.
Presently, St. Louis has an enrolment of 333 students and 429 available spaces for a utilization rate of 77.62 per cent. Queen of Peace hosts 242 students and the potential to accommodate 380, bringing its utilization rate to 63.68 per cent.
Earlier this year, the school board’s administration reversed a recommendation to close St. Louis and send its students to Queen of Peace. The WECDSB initially favoured the idea of having Leamington’s Catholic high school and last remaining elementary school situated side-by-side geographically, but then reversed its suggestion after hearing about St. Louis’s potential as a central hub with a well-established day care facility, English as a Second Language (ESL)
and Outreach programs.
During a late-January delegation meeting, it was also noted that the school board would have a more visible presence in Leamington with two separate locations.
Fields also explained that St. Louis is situated on a large property that could easily accommodate expansion or modification to the existing building. The Apr. 5 meeting’s vote was preceded by a presentation made by students from St. Louis school, explaining that if the closure vote went through, they’d be enthusiastic about opening their doors to former Queen of Peace students.
“They’ll be happy to welcome Queen of Peace students and its parent council,” Fields noted. “They’re more than willing to work together as a family to make this transition as smooth as possible.”
Following the late January public delegation meeting at Cardinal Carter, trustees set up another public gathering at the same location to take in feedback from their constituents. Fields described both pre-vote meetings as having tremendous turnouts.
“Everyone was extremely professional, courteous and well-informed with the information they presented,” he noted.
Parents or guardians of Queen of Peace students who object to the board of trustees decision can challenge it if they are able to
submit a copy of the board’s accommodation review policy while highlighting how the process was not compliant with that policy. This appeal must include a petition signed by a number of supporters equal to or greater than 30 per cent of the affected school’s student population. With a head count of 242 Queen of Peace students, a petition would have to be signed by a minimum of 73 parents, guardians or others that took part in the accommodation review process. Each signature would have to include the person’s name, address with postal code and indication on whether he or she is a parent/guardian or review process participant. The petition and highlighted policy would have to be submitted to the Minister of Education within 30 days of the board’s closure resolution.
In return, the school board would have to confirm to the MOE that the petition names are parent/ guardians or review process participants and submit its response to the Minister of Education within 30 days of receiving the petition. If satisfied that the required conditions have been met, the MOE would conduct a review through a facilitator to determine if the school board’s review process
complied with policy. This review would be launched within 30 days of receiving the school board’s response.
Queen of Peace Catholic Elementary School was one of three Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board facilities that trustees voted on for closure effective upon the completion of the 2015-16 school year. Queen of Peace JK to Grade 6 students will attend St. Louis Catholic Elementary School while the Ellison Street building will serve as the temporary home of a new middle school for Grade 7 and 8 students until Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School is sufficiently modified.
Publisher
Local caricatures
Local artist and author Todd Stahl shared a few of the caricatures he has drawn recently.
This one is Jordy Clifford, a Captain at the Leamington Fire Services. Everybody loves the guy....
Watch for more in the coming weeks.
Todd Stahl, Author/illustrator, 40 Days in the Man Cave www.toddstahl.com
Does anyone have these anymore?
Technology has made a lot of household objects obsolete, but it wasn’t that long ago that some of those things were common items for everyone.
twist. I bet you don’t see many of those around these days.
I guess the obvious thing would be a typewriter. Many homes had them and we all learned on them in high school. You’d be hard-pressed to find one being used today. Throw in 8-tracks, cassettes and now even VHS tapes, and you’ve got a box of obsolete stuff with a ton of memories attached. Even CDs and DVDs are on their way out. How about those personal labeling machines we all had back in the day?
They would spit out a hard plastic strip of letters or numbers with a sticky backing so you could label different things. You had to dial in each letter or number and then pull the trigger.
When the annual Bell phone book arrived every year, we’d replace the old one on the kitchen counter with the crisp new one. Now, it’s a thing of the past.
Remember when cable TV first appealed to our laziness and came out with a plastic box with all the channel buttons on it? It was attached to the back of our TV through a wire that ran all the way from couch to television. Our version of a remote control I guess. You still had to get up to turn the TV off and on though.
Those spindle adaptors that you put in the middle of a 45 rpm record to keep it stable on the turntable are now a distant memory in most of our homes.
Other things come to mind like shoehorns and shoe-shine brushes. I think you can still buy those, but I doubt they are used much anymore.
My dad used to have a box with shoeshine, all of the brushes and things that go with it. I’m sure it found its way into the trash at some point.
In fact, the records themselves have become obsolete, although they’ve enjoyed a little bit of resurgence in the past couple of years.
Try buying a true set of rabbit ears these days and let me know how you make out. Outdoor TV antennas are making a bit of a comeback with all of the cable cutting going on, but a true set of rabbit ears is rare.
When I worked in the grocery business, one of our best selling ‘hardware’ items was Rit fabric dye. We had a hanging display of several different colours. I wonder if you can even buy that anywhere now. At Halloween, all the moms flocked to the store to buy the black dye for witch and vampire costumes.
Many men wore suspenders back in the day, some of them even wore suspenders on their socks. Ladies wore stockings with garter belts, but once again those are no longer a necessity, unless you work in a strip club.
I still prefer a wood hockey stick but they are few and far between. Take a trip down the hockey stick aisle at Canadian Tire and see how many you can find. Slim pickings anywhere you go.
On the playground, things have changed considerably.
No more monkey bars or merry-go-rounds. Even slides have been labeled as dangerous and those old steel ones have been replaced by plastic.
My childhood home had an ashtray in every room. Even when I visit a home with smokers, I very seldom see anything that resembles an ashtray. They’ve also disappeared from vehicles.
We also once inherited an organ that was powered by a vacuum cleaner. It was ancient, but you had to hook up a vacuum cleaner, run it in reverse so it would blow instead of suck, and then you could play the organ. Somehow defeats the purpose, doesn’t it? I remember the few times that we tried to play with it, the vacuum was louder than the organ was.
Society changes the way we think that we need some things. Technology does the rest.
Electric toasters were once simple metal objects where the sides opened and closed to allow the insertion of the bread and the removal of the toast. Then came the pop-up kind and now they have sensors to decide if your toast is done to your specifications.
I still usually mash my potatoes with a hand-masher. Many people use an electric mixer for that. My former inlaws used to use a potato ricer, which always added a nice
Remember how hot those slides were on a summer day? It was all part of the childhood experience. There used to be a fireman’s pole at Seacliff Park but that’s gone now too. We used to spend hours pretending we were Batman.
Tupperware was huge back in the day and I think it’s still around, but so many knock-offs have made the once-popular and durable houseware a bit of a rarity. Remember those tiny Tupperware Midgets with lids? They only held a tiny amount of liquid but they were popular once, along with the salt and pepper shakers, and those popsicle trays we used to freeze Koolaid in.
Even glass pop bottles, which were once the only way to buy soft drinks, have pretty much disappeared. Sure, there are those six packs of mini Coke in the bottle but those are more of a novelty than anything.
It would have seemed odd to drink my Fanta Grape, Chocolate Soldier, or Kickapoo Joy Juice from a plastic bottle or aluminum can.
So many things have come and gone and once in awhile we’ll find a gem hidden in the attic or basement.
You just never know if you’ll use it again.
April is BeADonor month
April 1st marked the start of BeADonor month in Ontario. Right now there are over 1,600 people waiting for a life-saving organ transplant. Every three days, someone dies waiting.
Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN) is calling on Ontarians to register their consent for organ and tissue donation and encourage others to do the same. When families have evidence that their loved one wanted to be an organ donor, they are more likely to consent. Where there is no proof, families consent only half of the time.
“We often hear from donor families that their loved one’s gift has brought them solace in their grief,” said Ronnie Gavsie, President and CEO, TGLN. “When a potential donor is registered, families have the comfort of knowing they are affirming their loved one’s wishes.”
“Now is the perfect time to join the 3.4 million Ontarians who have proudly registered as organ and tissue donors,” said Dr. Eric Hoskins, Ontario’s Minister of Health and Long Term Care. “It takes two minutes at www.BeADonor.ca. One donor can save up to eight lives and enhance up to 75 more through the gift of tissue.”
Once you’ve registered your consent, share your reason with friends and family. On social media, use #BeADonor and #MyReason. Watch those hashtags through the month of April for inspiring stories and interesting perspectives on organ and tissue donation and transplant.
In 2015, 269 deceased and 279 living donors gave the gift of life to 1,086 transplant recipients. More than 2,100 tissue donors helped improve the lives of thousands through the gift of eyes, bone, skin, or heart valves.
Trillium Gift of Life Network is a not-for-profit agency of the Government of Ontario responsible for planning, promoting, coordinating and supporting organ and tissue donation for transplantation across Ontario and improving the system so that more lives can be saved.
New hope for treatment
Representing the South Shore Health Centre, Roberta Jarecsni spoke to Municipal Council on Monday evening, Apr. 11, about the start of a program of help for chemical dependency in the Leamington area. Facts revealed as part of the presentation to Council: addicts are in the top 5% of health care system users and the financial burden of mental health and addiction problems is 1.5 times higher than all cancers and infectious diseases; one out of six high school students meet the criteria for substance abuse; our region has a higher rate of addictions (18.2%) than in Ontario as a whole (16%); and finally, alcohol-related disorders account for 88% of all deaths caused by addiction.
What was described to Council was a centre that brings addiction/mental health care specialists to the people in need and their families: active treatment and counselling for the opiate dependent and long-term follow-up care for both these patients and recovering alcoholics.
The centre expects to get individuals help within 72 hours, and support while they wait. There will be a team of physicians, nurses and social workers — all specialists in addiction and recovery — who will provide a range of programs that can be customized for each circumstance, and which will increase funded treatment options by 30%.
Jarecsni was quick to assure Council that the municipality is doing well in many areas, but the reality is that addiction is the last major prejudice that is still accepted in public. She also indicated that not only do a lot of people leave the area to get treatment for addictions, but also when they return there is a real vacuum of follow-up to help them maintain the progress they achieved in residential, in-patient treatment.
There are always two streams when it comes to addictions: those who can afford to pay, and those who can’t. Those who cannot pay face huge obstacles to treatment. Now, however, the opportunity exists to make a change. The problems are exacerbated by a lack of specialists trained in the sub-specialty of addictions and mental health. For example, of the 1,000 consultations for addiction Jarecsni knows about in Windsor last year, there has been no successful psychiatric consultation — psychiatrists are not necessarily trained in treatment of addicted individuals.
In conclusion, Jarecsni praised the local help the new centre has already received, but made it clear more help is needed and more volunteers would be welcome.
Leamington Dental Health Center
Dr. Bailey, Dr. Nguyen & Associates www.ldhc.ca Tel 519-322-2866 Fax 519-322-1769
THE LEAMINGTON DENTAL HEALTH CENTER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
We are looking for students who are interested in pursuing an education in health care and likely to return to work in our community. We want to improve and grow the health care services in this region.
Award Type: Scholarship Amount: $500
Number of Recipients: Two students annually Category of Study: Health Care Related Application Deadline: May 13th, 2016
Eligibility Criteria:
• Be in the graduating year of uninterrupted full-time studies in high school
• OR currently enrolled in a health care field.
• Has filed an application to attend a college or university upon graduating from High School
Application form:
• Please visit WWW.LDHC.CA to download application form OR
• Pick up form at 8 Clark St. W, Leamington, ON
It is about you, your dreams and aspirations, and your perseverance to succeed.
Good luck to all applicants from the LDHC team. And thank you for letting us be a part of your dental health care team for the past 28 years!
Leamington OPP stopped a white Chevrolet travelling southbound on Highway 77 at approximately 11:45 p.m. on April 6.
Officers located a quantity dilaudid hydromorph, fentanyl packets and marijuana. The total value of the illegal drugs is valued at approximately $8,000.
A 56-year-old Leamington woman and a 49-year-old Kingsville man were both charged with: Possession of a Schedule II Substance; Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking; and Possession of a Schedule I Substance (x 2).
Both charged parties will appear in a Leamington court in May to answer to the charges.
Roberta Jarecsni made a presentation to Council Monday evening advocating a treatment centre for chemical dependency.
Greenhouse expansions
Cervini Farms is planning to add about three more acres to its existing greenhouse operation north of Wilkinson Drive. Close to the railway land trail that heads north of town they have a properly zoned piece of land but must enter into a site plan agreement with the municipality. Neither the municipal administration nor the Essex Region Conservation Authority have any concerns about the proposal.
In an unrelated request, East Side Acres wants to add a four acre addition onto its greenhouse operation East of Mersea Road 19, just north of Mersea Road 1. Again, neither the municipality nor ERCA have expressed concerns about the plan as proposed. The biggest hurdle that must be cleared is their fresh water supply: they will have to expand their storage capacity and limit their inflow rate, which both will be covered in the site plan agreement.
Greening Gang Gets Helping Hand With TD Friends of the Environment Grant
Members of Gore Hill Public School’s Greening Gang proudly display the items purchased with some of the funds from the TD Friends of the Environment Grant that the school received. Students are working on completing a spring cleanup of the school’s green space. In addition to the supplies pictured, the funds will also assist in the purchase of benches and shade trees for the school. Plans are also underway for the creation of a rock garden. The Gore Hill Greening Gang boasts 60 members. Some of the group are pictured here getting ready for their upcoming spring green space cleanup. Front row, left to right: Bryce Klassen, Sahnder Espino, Emma Brimner, Neveah Phelps. Middle row: Lena Wiens, Vivienne Fittler, Alexis Beaul, Eric Simpson. Back row: Serenity Schroeder, Allison Ware, Johnny Knelsen, Dylan Paine. (Submitted photo)
Despite
support of Grade 7 students from Queen of Peace Catholic School. Several students, many decked in blue, were there to support their classmate Christopher Obeid, who has been diagnosed with autism.
Christopher helped kickoff the walk with words of thanks to those on hand who helped allow Ann and Paula to present a cheque
for $25,000 to Julie Bondy, president of Autism Ontario Windsor Essex Chapter Leadership Council, and Livia Congi, office and program manager.
By Pat Bailey
Obeid’s Grade
Christopher
7 classmates from Queen of Peace braved the cold yesterday to support their classmate.
Autism walk volunteers Chrissy Neufeld and Abbey Morin, both 16, leave their imprint on Sunday’s walk.
Above: Nearly 200 runners and walkers get set
the start of the 5-10km Run/Walk for Autism Awareness Sunday at Seacliff Park.
Left: Alex Jones, Milla Mastronardi and Remi were all decked out in blue to support friend Christopher Obeid in the 4th Annual 5-10km Walk for Autism Awareness.
From left to right: Ann Obeid, Julie Bondy, Livia Congi and Paula Filangeri.
in the in the in the in the in the
ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20
Changes at work may prove lucrative for you, Aries. That’s a bit of good news you can use right now, especially if you plan on throwing a big party or taking a vacation.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, you may experience a burst of creativity that has you dabbling in a project or dreaming up plans for one. Ask friends or colleagues for some feedback.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, some revealing conversations with friends may have you second-guessing just who you can trust. Exercise caution when sharing private thoughts.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Expect some noticeable changes in your neighborhood, Cancer. You may be caught off guard this when familiar surroundings begin to look different.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, past efforts to advance your career may have not worked out, but that doesn’t mean you should give up trying. Try to broaden your network again in the days ahead.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, if an opportunity to travel comes your way this week, take advantage of it. You do not know when you will get another chance in the near future.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, your instincts are highly attuned and you can do a good job of sizing people up this week. You can be so good at it that others look to you for personal advice.
ANSWERS ON PAGE 23
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, expect a few invitations to social gatherings to soon arrive in the mail or your in your inbox. This is a great chance to let others see a different side of you.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, your physical and mental energy is very high. Channel it into a productive endeavor and use your energy to get others motivated.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, the optimism bug has overtaken you and you are filled with energy and enthusiasm. Move on with some creative ideas and encourage others to follow suit.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, when you are feeling motivated, all others will follow your lead. It’s all or nothing for you this week. You have the motivation to plow through any task.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
New opportunities are coming your way. This could mean investing in some new technology or pursuing a new career opportunity.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
APRIL 10
Daisy Ridley, Actress (24)
APRIL 11
Alessandra Ambrosio, Model (35)
APRIL 12
Jennifer Morrison, Actress (37)
APRIL 13
Ron Perlman, Actor (66)
APRIL 14
Abigail Breslin, Actress (20)
APRIL 15
Emma Watson, Actress (26)
APRIL 16
Akon, Rapper (43)
22 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
(Submitted photo)
Eco Team gearing up for Earth Day Expo
By Bryan Jessop Leamington District Secondary School’s Eco Team
simply has too much on its schedule for Earth Day to be recognized in a mere 24hour period.
The group’s next public event, the Great Canadian Shoreline Clean Up, will take place Monday, Apr. 18. From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., the Eco Team will lead a clean up effort along Seacliff Beach, where members of the general public are welcome to join. The team will bring with it the equipment needed for local residents to stop by and assist with ridding the waterfront area of garbage.
The event will take place weather permitting and is an opportunity for high school students to contribute toward their mandatory service hours. The Eco Team has spearheaded a Seacliff Beach clean up gathering annually for the past eight years.
Tentatively, LDSS has booked a public showing of Naomi Klein’s controversial documentary This Changes Everything. The book-based film focuses on climate change and the factors causing them. Having already been screened in Windsor following its 2015 release, This Changes Everything largely targets capitalism as the catalyst behind detrimental environmental conditions that have developed around the world.
The Eco Team hopes to have its copy of the movie arrive in time to be played Wednesday, Apr. 20 for a noon start in the LDSS main gymnasium. If the screening is able to proceed as scheduled, members of the public will be invited to attend free of charge.
The team’s biggest event of the calendar year will once again take place on Earth Day. This year’s attraction will be an Earth Day Expo, taking place at the Leamington Portuguese Club Friday, Apr. 22 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The LDSS Eco Team is partnering with the Municipality of Leamington and the Leamington and District Chamber of Commerce
to present the expo, a first of its kind event for the volunteer school group. With an estimated 20 booths and displays, the expo will focus on sustainable environmental practices utilized by Leamington area businesses and organizations. Representatives of the expo are hoping that guests will be inspired to use the same or similar environmentally-friendly practices in their day-to-day lives.
“It’s a celebration of some of the great things that are going on in this community,” said LDSS science teacher and Eco Team leader Lisa Jeffery. “This is a chance to showcase the positive things that are going on, not just to the school, but the whole community.”
Admission to the Earth Day Expo is $20 per person, which includes food and DJ music provided by LDSS students. Youths under the age of 10 will receive free admission. Tickets can be purchased in advance at LDSS (125 Talbot St. West) or the Leamington and District Chamber of Commerce (318 Erie St. South). Tickets
at the door on the day of the event will be $25 apiece. Organizers recommend purchasing tickets in advance to ensure that an appropriate amount of food can be made available.
Representatives of the Eco Team, municipality and Chamber of Commerce were initially planning to charge $25 per non-profit display and $50 per business, but corporate sponsorships from Lakeside Produce, Leamington Medical Supply, Essex Power and Hicks, MacPherson, Iatonna and Driedger LLP allowed exhibitors to set up their displays free of charge. The Mosaic Company also stepped forward to support the event.
The expo will include a mobile learning trailer, lessons on wetland protection, the harmful effects of microbeads and a display from the Essex Region Conservation Authority, which the Eco Team has partnered with several times in recent years. Local automotive dealerships will also showcase their most environmentally friendly vehicles while Pelee Wings has signed on as one
Emerson fire results in arson charges
Leamington Fire Services battled an early morning blaze Wednesday, April 6 at a residence on Emerson Ave. The fire caused approximately $150,000 damage to the home.
The Leamington OPP were called to the scene at approximately 3:30 a.m. as the fire was deemed suspicious. The Ontario Fire Marshall (OFM) was called to investigate, along with the Essex County OPP Crime Unit.
As a result of the investigation, two males were arrested and charged. The males, a 20-year-old and an 18-year-old, both of Leamington, were each charged with Arson – Disregard for Human Life, and Arson – Damage to Property.
of the most recent additions to the participation list. Proceeds from the Earth Day Expo will go toward funding a new outdoor classroom and community garden at LDSS.
Last year, the Eco Team recognized Earth Day by organizing an Algae Bloom Summit, organized in response to high populations of algae blooms that posed a threat to Lake Erie drinking water.
Information centre to gather input on one-way streets
Members of the public are invited to attend a Public Information Centre (PIC) to provide input and comments on a traffic study of Leamington’s one-way couplets, namely Chestnut/Fox and Victoria/Wigle.
The information centre is drop-in format and takes places Tuesday, Apr. 19 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Leamington Municipal Building, 111 Erie St. N.
The aforementioned streets have operated as one-way couplets since 1983. Since the opening of the East Side Arterial Road, traffic patterns have changed. Leamington Municipal Council has authorized a traffic study to examine possible strategic operational improvements or traffic calming measures.
The traffic study is being undertaken by RC Spencer Associates Inc., Consulting Engineers. Staff from the RC Spencer Associates Inc. will be present to discuss the status quo, illustrate possible options, and receive comments and feedback from the public.
If you are unable to attend the PIC, and would like to provide comments or receive further information, please contact: Allan Botham, Manager of Engineering Services, Municipality of Leamington, 111 Erie St. N., 519-326-5761 ext. 1502 or email: abotham@leamington.ca
Members of the 2015-16 Leamington District Secondary School Eco Team. Along with the Municipality of Leamington and Leamington and District Chamber of Commerce, the Eco Team will present the Earth Day Expo at the Portuguese Club Friday, Apr.
Council: April 11 Meeting
Municipality to purchase emergency notification service
Chief Chuck Parsons of Leamington Fire Services has proposed that the municipality buy into an emergency notification service.
For years Leamington participated in such a system called “reverse 911”. To quote Chief Parsons: “Support for this software has been ceased and the infrastructure has been removed. This has left a gap in our municipality’s ability to efficiently notify residents with important information during an emergency.”
In collaboration with the Essex County Emergency Management coordinator and all of the individual municipal emergency management coordinators, an alternative provider of this service has been found, so
Chief Parsons has asked Leamington Municipal Council to buy into this service.
BILL CHAPLIN Municipal Correspondent
At the April 11 meeting of Council, Councillor Tim Wilkinson asked for a couple of examples of when this type of service would be used. Chief Parsons responded with boil water advisories, flooding danger to a specific area of the municipality, or evacuation notices in case of hazardous smoke affecting a specific part of town.
Councillor John Jacobs asked how cell phones could be used. He was told that
due to the ‘opt in’ option, a cell phone number can be left with the service in addition to a home landline.
Council voted in favour of the request.
Council votes to close portion of Princess St.
There were three public meetings at the Monday, Apr. 11 Municipal Council meeting. Two were to create a residential lot with a surplus farmhouse. The Committee of Adjustment had already found no problems with them. There were no objections to the re-zoning.
the goal is “to bring people back to the uptown core”, and that the park is “not only for us, but for the community”.
Members of the public raised a wide variety of concerns. Rae-Ann Scratch pointed out that closing Princess would result in it being more difficult to navigate side streets to Erie Street, and that access to the building would be made more difficult for wheelchair-bound individuals who could no longer be dropped off right at the door of 33 Princess. Harold Rempel noted that the closure of Princess would necessitate moving the driveway to his property, and was relieved to hear that the cost of the relocation would not fall to him. Pierre Obeid was upset by the number of variables that were still unanswered, identifying such things as his property value, the problem of snow removal, and the uncertainty of the traffic study.
improvement to the quality of life and the beautiful result she anticipates by creating Leamington’s “piazza”. Council voted in favour of the recommendation to initiate the process to close the street.
Water systems
get the okay
The annual reports received by Leamington Council Apr. 11 for both the Union Water System and the Wheatley Drinking Water System indicate that the drinking water was fine all of 2015.
In fact, the only problem detected occurred when both the untreated and treated samples were taken from the same untreated water tap. Resampling properly proved everything was fine.
Contract awarded for marina security
Stephen's Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave., Windsor. Take the mystery out of repotting orchids. Bring up to 3 orchids to repot plus your own supplies. Info: Julie 519-7276343.
FOOD & FELLOWSHIP SUPPERMonday, April 18, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Leamington United Church, 9 John St., welcomes all who are alone or having trouble making ends meet. No charge.
LEAMINGTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY WILL MEET Wednesday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. at Leamington United Church. Speaker: Philomene Rowen. Presentation: Video on Holland's Tulip Gardens. All are welcome to join the Society for an evening of horticultural fellowship. Refreshments served. Info: Peter Scorrar 519-326-8529.
SPRING RUMMAGE SALE - Friday & Saturday April 22 & 23 from 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon at First Baptist Church, 3 Fox St., Leamington. Lots of toys, gently used clothing, small household items, books home decor, jewellery and so much more!
ART SHOW, SALE & AUCTION to benefit the Mission Hall Project, Saturday, April 23, 11:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. at Pelee Island Winery. Admission is free. Donations welcome.
MY "FAIR" HEALTH INFORMATION DAY - Wednesday, April 27 from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Leamington Half Century Centre, 160 Talbot St. E. Displays, door prizes, food available. Everyone welcome.
PELEE PAST QUESTERS WILL MEET Thursday, April 28, 7:00 p.m., at WFCU, 318, Erie St. S., Leamington. Speaker: Chief Louise Hillier. Topic: History and Future Plans of Caldwell First Nation. PPQ is an organization for the study of antiques, preservation and restoration or artifacts, existing memorials, historical buildings, landmarks, and education. Guests are welcome. To reserve a spot call Jackie King 519-326-1361.
RUMMAGE AND BAKE SALE at Epworth United Church, Kingsville, Friday, April 29, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00
p.m. and Saturday, April 30, 9:00
a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Bakes sale is Friday only.
SUN PARLOR HOME AUXILIARY BAKE SALE - Friday, May 6, 10:00
a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Sun Parlor Home, 175 Talbot St E., Leamington. Baked goods, raffle, refreshments at Garden View Cafe. Proceeds to Mobility Bus Campaign.
LEAMINGTON HORTICULTURAL
SOCIETY ANNUAL PLANT SALESaturday, May 14, 9:00 a.m. - 12
noon at Leamington United Church, 9 John St. A variety of plants, shrubs, trees, demonstrations, Trash-to-Treasure table and
refreshments. For more info call Eileen Wonnick 519-326-4841.
CANADIAN TRANSPORTATION
MUSEUM AND HERITAGE
VILLAGE (CTMHV) ON THE ARNER TOWN LINE IS IN NEED OF VOLUNTEERS to help with kids programs such as 'Pioneer for a Day', special events, shows, meetings, or in the museum, log cabins and period buildings, etc. If you have a few hours to spare and would like to help out, contact Judy Anderson, Education and Volunteer Coordinator at CTMHV, 519-776-6909 or email education@ctmhv.com
MONDAYS - SENIORS DROP-IN, 1st and last Monday of the month only at 10:30 a.m. at Leamington United Church. Guest speakers, refreshments, games, exercise. It's free, fun, and wheelchair accessible. All seniors welcome. ARE YOU AFFECTED BY SOMEONE ELSE'S DRINKING? The Wheatley Serenity Al-Anon Family Group meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the Wheatley Friendship Club (north entrance), 171 Erie St. N.
PREGNANCY & RESOURCE CENTRE, 33 Princes St. (Princess Centre) Suite 408, Leamington, offers free and confidential services provided by registered nurses and trained volunteers. Free pregnancy tests. Call 24/7 for free and confidential support - 519-3260612. Business calls: 519-3263821.
The other public meeting was significant: a proposal to close Princess Street between Mill Street and Setterington Street. The proposal is to change the street into a pedestrian park that joins the Mill Street Parking Lot and the Princess Centre. While the ownership of the land would remain with the municipality, the owners of the Princess Centre (to be renamed “Central 33”) are prepared to contribute heavily to the park construction.
After the meeting was opened by Rob Sharon, Leamington’s Director of Infrastructure Services, and the administrative endorsement of closure was made, a short presentation was made by Carl Grossi about the vision. He emphasized that
Loss of parking was questioned by Councillor Bill Dunn. Change of tripmaking characteristics was questioned by Councillor John Hammond. There were also comments and questions by Councillors Tim Wilkinson and John Jacobs. Deputy-Mayor Hilda MacDonald spoke about the
A tender for security at Leamington Marina in the summer was considered at the Monday Apr. 11 Municipal Council Meeting and the low bid was just over $45,000.
Administration recommended awarding the contract to the low bidder, Neptune Security Services of Mississauga. Council awarded the contract.
Seeking submissions for Flock Fest Open air
The mission of the Leamington Annual Flock Fest is to create, share and inspire creativity and innovation through a community celebration in a public space. It is led by a volunteer committee of community artists, volunteers and activists.
The initiative was launched in 2015. The Leamington 1st annual Flock Fest was held at the Sherk Complex and on the streets of the Uptown Leamington with free workshops, performances and birdhouse installations.
The 2nd annual Flock Fest Committee is calling for individuals and groups of all cultural traditions, ages and abilities to join together for fun and free celebratory gatherings from Apr. 26-May 28 in Uptown Leamington.
The program encourages the mixing of experiences inspired by birds and birdhouses as a symbol of continued existence directed at a future sense of the community and a place making.
April 23: The due date for the exhibit at the Leamington Arts Centre. Submissions of works inspired by birds and birdhouse designs in a variety of styles, mediums and disciplines are welcome.
April 26: Opening of the exhibition.
May 14: Due date for the registration to perform at the Leamington 2nd Annual Flock Fest event May 21.
May 21: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Performances of music, drama, dance and poetry as well as an installation at Caldwell First Nation (former Legion) and at Dieppe Park in Uptown Leamington, which includes the following:
• Installation by artist Jacqueline Cadarette. She brings her original script “The Flight of Icarus”, a reader’s theatre/dramatization that comes alive with an opportunity for children
and adults to participate with dances, costumes, solos, reading.
• Participate in building a giant nest. Bring bio-degradable materials to construct a community nest at Dieppe Park such as dryer lint, hay, dried leaves, scraps of yarn. Some of the materials may eventually end up in a natural bird’s nest! Take a selfie from inside the nest upon its completion.
• Exhibition of bird-inspired costume and headpiece designs of any medium. The project encourages the diverse skills and innovative use of material celebrated by a performative walk in Uptown Leamington with an unconventional narrative co-created by the participants and observers.
• Share and support local creative businesseses at Caldwell First Nation building. Vendors are welcome.
• Enjoy a chicken soup
fundraiser to support creative people with autism in the community.
May 21: Closing reception from 5-7 p.m. at Leamington Arts Centre. Enjoy good camaraderie and a performance by Justin Latam, a local singer/songwriter. His most recent album, “Barefoot”, was released in 2015. Award winners will also be be announced sometime during the closing reception.
All are welcome to join the festivities and flock with the people of the same mind and an innovative nature to create, inspire and be inspired through shared experiences at this fun community events.
Plans are also underway to create a post-event limited edition catalogue of the works by the leading artist Irena Vucajnk.
For further announcements, check out Leamington Flock Fest on Facebook.
burning by-law is working
Monday evening, Apr. 11, Leamington Council was presented with an update on the open air burning by-law that was enacted in 2010. While there may have been some resistance to the by-law at its inception, the statistics reported prove that it is being accepted and has been a success. Consider the following excerpts from the report: “Since its implementation, the fire service has seen a decline in its responses related to open air burning, dropping from approximately 80 calls per year to approximately 30 calls per year. The number of permits issued has increased from 254 in 2010 to 404 in 2015… The bylaw requires anyone wishing to have an open air burn apply for a burning permit. Upon request, a fire representative is sent out to assess the site, photograph the location, educate the applicant to the allowable burning procedures and products of combustion and if acceptable, issue the permit on site for a cost recovery fee of $20… The evidence shows that the Open Air Burning bylaw has met its objectives by providing residents the ability to burn organics safely and provide backyard family fires in a controlled environment. Education
Margaret Honey
Margaret Virginia Honey, born August 2, 1941 in Detroit, Michigan, passed away, surrounded by her family, at Leamington District Memorial Hospital on Saturday, April 9, 2016.
Margie was raised in Windsor by loving parents Alexander and Mary Lipischak, and brothers Robert (deceased 1957) and Frank (Del) Lipischak. Margie married the love of her life, Gary Bruce Honey, on October 12, 1963. They raised three boys in Belleville, Ontario, Michael (Francine), Greg (Linda) and Tom (Kristi). Margie was the proud grandmother to Ella and Grantley Honey, and step-grandmother to Raphael and Louis-Philippe Joly.
Margie was proudly granted her Canadian citizenship in Belleville in 1997. She was a longtime volunteer at the Belleville and Leamington Hospital Auxiliaries, and an avid worldwide traveller with a beautiful sense of humour.
The family requests donations to the Leamington Hospital Auxiliary in lieu of flowers.
A memorial will be announced at a later date. Margie’s cremated remains will lay at peace at Erie Memorial Gardens in Leamington.
Arrangements entrusted to the Hammond Funeral Home, 17 Little Street South, Wheatley (519-825-7741). www.hammondfuneralhome.ca
coupled with enforcement has reduced numbers of unnecessary calls with a cost recovery component.”
Mayor John Paterson asked Fire Chief Chuck Parsons about burn barrels (which are illegal in Ontario), and was told that the fire service is very much in
an ‘education’ mode rather than a punishment mode. If a burn barrel is observed being used, the fire is put out and the owner warned of its illegality. Repeat offence always results in punitive measures.
Council voted to receive the report.
Chartwell April Open House
SPRING FORWARD TO THE NEXT CHAPTER IN YOUR LIFE.
Since Aurel moved into his Chartwell residence, he and his daughter Maja have transitioned from worry and concern about household responsibilities to spending more quality time together, including lots of family time for children, grandchildren and a new great grandchild. If you want to learn more about the benefits of retirement living, our Open House can help answer your questions.
CHARTWELL.COM
Make us part of your story.
the Heart of Our Success” Juried Student Art Show
It was a full house for the 18th annual Juried Student Art Show held at the Leamington Arts Centre for the opening reception and awards held Thursday, April 7.
This year’s show broke all previous records with 163 students artists (up from 105 last year and 85 in 2014) submitting 220 art works (up from 168 last year and 123 in 2014). Chad Riley, Director and Mary Jane Nohra, South Essex Arts Association (SEAA) Chair welcomed students, teachers and parents to the Gallery and thanked the generous sponsors Leamington Rotary Club and Leamington Kiwanis Club who provide free student entry and the cash prizes.
The juried art show is open to all Essex County secondary students. Five area secondary schools entered artwork this year. The following schools and their art teachers were thanked for organizing and participating in the contest: Sandwich Secondary School, Ms. Srdanov and Mrs. Thibert; Cardinal Carter, Mrs. Budd; Leamington District Secondary School, Mrs. Grossi and Ms. Kubis; Kingsville High School, Ms. L Roughton; and St. Thomas of Villanova, Mrs. Bastien.
Judges for this year’s show included: Ken Friesen, retired art teacher, long time member and past board member of the SEAA/LAC; Irena Vucajnk, artist, SEAA/LAC member and Leamington Rotarian; John Haynes, artist, past board member of the SEAA/LAC; Derek Friesen, artist, Media Arts Program Chair, SEAA/LAC board member; and Terry Dolle, artist, SEAA/LAC member.
Awards were presented in nine different categories including acrylic, oil, watercolour, drawing, mixed medium, photography, sculpture, digital, and film. Prizes of $25, $15 and $10 were awarded in all categories except film which paid $250 for first, $150 for second and $50 for third.
(Continued on page 19)
Pictured here are the winners who attended the awards ceremony on Thursday, April 7 at the Leamington Arts Centre. In front, from left to right, are Kaitlynn Lessard, Sallma Majthoub, Logan Paroian, Brock Brian, Taya Baird, Courtney Gregorian and Chyenne Wilson. Back row, from left to right, Drew Sovran, Krista Wilson, Ariel Cremasco, Megan Morency, Allison Victor, Andrea Loubert, Rachael Timmins, and Mena Rimac. (SUN Photo)
JAC launched 80 years ago
By Bryan Jessop
The Great Depression may have seemed like an odd time to start an athletic club, but hundreds of Leamington-area youths were grateful for the opportunities it presented, regardless of the timing.
The Leamington Junior Athletic Club was launched in 1936 by John Offler, who was known across the community as the proprietor
“I
remember the halls there being really dingy. It was like a dungeon.”
— Danny Bateman
of a successful seed company. Backed by a squad of volunteer instructors, the group initially operated as a boys’ club offering training for sports including boxing, basketball and several disciplines in gymnastics including balance beams, horizontal bars, tumbling, apparatus, vault horse and trampoline.
The local Junior Athletic Club — referred to by many simply as the JAC — was
initially hosted by Leamington District High School, located in what is now the student parking lot for the current LDSS along Talbot Street West. Five years after a new high school was built across the street at 125 Talbot St. West in 1953, the JAC’s future was left up in the air as its organizers struggled to find new accommodations. The organization found a new home in the Community Centre auditorium after a fourmonth delay in 1958 — the year it ran as a girlsonly club.
The JAC temporarily ceased operations during WWII and was reintroduced in 1948, opening its doors to both male and female members. The boys’ club was guided by instructors including Alf Andrews, Al Nicholson, Herb Longland, Russ Corlett and Garland Mills while the girls were instructed by coaches including Eileen Stockwell, Mary Huffman, Jean Ashton, Muriel Wilshire, Debbie Stewart and Jo Evans. Evans, a well-known community volunteer for organizations including Leamington District Memo-
rial Hospital and St. John’s Anglican Church, played an instrumental role in the development and support of the girls’ program.
The JAC’s season typically began in early-mid autumn and concluded late in the spring with an awards banquet for top athletes and instructors. Banquet sites included establishments such as the Leamington Royal Canadian Legion, the Roma Club and St. John’s Parish Hall. Trophies and awards were sponsored by a lengthy list of Leamington-area service clubs, businesses and individuals. Service club awards included the Lions Club, Kinsmen, Kinettes, Loyal Order of Moose, Sertoma Club, Royal Canadian Legion and Kiwanis Club. Sponsoring businesses included Lakeside Jersey Dairy, Gord’s Welding, Sam Feldman’s, Reliance Petroleum and others.
Perhaps the most wellknown among trophy sponsors and presenters were Toronto Maple Leaf players Ted “Teeter” Kennedy and Howie Meeker. Top Canadian gymnast and Olympic medalist Ernestine Russell of Windsor was also a regular awards presenter.
“He had a lot of pull,” Danny Bateman said of Offler and the connections he was able to make as JAC supporters.
Bateman was a trainer for the boys basketball segment (Continued on page 15)
Toronto Maple Leafs Ted Kennedy (far left) and Howie Meeker (far right) present awards to award winners of the annual Leamington Junior Athletic Club banquet. The two NHL players sponsored JAC trophies and made the trip to Leamington for several consecutive years to present awards.
Boys accept season-ending trophies during an annual awards banquet for the Leamington Junior Athletic Club. (Submitted photos)
Girls accept season-ending trophies during an annual awards banquet for the Leamington Junior Athletic Club.
JAC
80 years ago
(Continued from page 14) of the program in 1967. Bateman, the son of club chairman of the early 1960s Ken Bateman, recalled a variety of aspects known to the JAC, its facilities and services that are uncommon to most modern-day equivalents of the organization.
“Everybody took on a little bit of everything,” he said. “There were buses that picked up the Wheatley kids and dropped them off again. It was really different.”
Bateman recollected the busing service for Leamington-area members as being intended for girls only, as programming at the JAC routinely concluded after nightfall. He did however note that boys also made use of the transportation service. At present day, Bateman describes Lakeside Bakery as a common gathering place where former youth athletes meet to share memories of
the Junior Athletic Club.
“I remember the halls there being really dingy,” Bateman noted. “It was like a dungeon.”
Youth membership of the organization ranged from 70 to 172 until it closed permanently in 1972. The JAC’s popularity peaked in the 1960s, where the number of
TOM GIGNAC
instructors increased from about a dozen to more than 20. Membership numbers began to decline following the creation of a Recreation Commission, the construction of a new Leamington arena and the installation of gymnasiums in most local schools.
County Bridge Results
Leamington Half Century Centre, Apr. 4: 1st Henry Hildebrandt and Bob Lee, 2nd Jim Perkes and Roger Cote, 3rd Al Morrison and Derek Parry, 4th Roy Trowell and Agnes Fraser. Bridge games are played each Monday at 12:45 p.m. Members and new members welcome.
Kingsville Bridge Club, Apr. 6: North/South - 1st Bill Chaplin and Chris Brennan, 2nd Marg Koeman and Vi Major, 3rd Sandy and Joyce Gammie. East/West - 1st Marlene Ross and Buddy Ellwood, 2nd Bob Lee and Henry Hildebrandt, 3rd Jack Warmenhoven and Frank Duransky. Bridge is every Wednesday at the Lions Hall in Kingsville, 7 p.m.
The girls club of the Leamington Junior Athletic Club poses for group photos in the gymnasium of the former Leamington District High School, located across the street from the current LDSS.
Busy month for Horticultural Society
Catherine Riediger
March has been a busy month for the Leamington Horticultural Society. It started off with the Home and Garden Show on March 4-6 at the Sherk Complex. The Society’s booth was decorated with two beautiful assortments of spring flowers, Boston ferns and watering cans and bunnies provided by members, creating a spring-like atmosphere. A freshly cut flower arrangement was donated as a prize for one lucky new member who signed up at the show. This was won by Jackie Bruno. The Communities in Bloom Committee shared a section of the booth displaying certificates awarded for Recipient of 5 Blooms and Environmental Actions as well as the Community Profile book for 2015.
Guest speaker for the March 18 monthly meeting was Susan Ross on the topic of creating a “Critter Friendly Habitat”. With Susan’s usual humour and knowledge, members enjoyed a very enlightening and interesting presentation. It is so important that we learn how to coexist with nature and share the space around us.
On Saturday, March 18, the Social Committee organized a day trip to St. Thomas to visit the Canadale Greenhouses which were celebrating their 9th Annual Spring Garden Show. The ladies had a most enjoyable day touring the garden show, lunching at the Wayside
Inn, stopping at Pickards and Barry Hill. Even with a winter chill in the air, as one participant voiced, “It was a blast of spring.”
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Stay tuned, as the Social Committee plans to organize more day trips to interesting gardens, nurseries and garden centres.
The Provincial Flower featured this month is the Purple Violet for the Province of New Brunswick. Upon the suggestion of the New Brunswick Women’s Institute, the Lieutenant Governor and the province’s school children, the Purple Violet (Viola cucullata) was chosen as the provincial flower and adopted in 1936. This small flower grows in wetland areas and forests west to Ontario and as far south as the state of Georgia in the U.S. It is also known as “Marsh Violet” (Viola oblique). It spreads underground by means of flesh rhizomes. Plants are 2 inches tall and 4-6 inches wide. Kidneyshaped leaves have teeth along the margins. They will tolerate both partial and full shade.
Upcoming events for the Society are the annual Plant Sale on May 14 at the Leamington United Church on John Street, 9:00 a.m.12 noon. The Plant Sale Committee is requesting donations of plants for the sale. Assistance to dig up and pot is available. Please contact Eileen Wonnick at 519-326-4841 by April 25 if you have any plants to donate to this worthy cause and require assistance in the harvesting. Guest speaker for the April 20 monthly meeting is Society member Philomene Rowen who will be showing a video on Holland’s Tulip Gardens. This presentation is very timely with the upcoming “Bloom Celebration” at Rick Atkin Park on Thursday, May 5 at 11:00 a.m. for the 70th Anniversary Dutch-Canadian Friendship Tulip Garden which was planted with 700 red and white tulips last October at the entrance to the Park.
Leamington Horticultural Society’s Social Committee organized a trip to Canadale Greenhouses in March. The ladies had a very enjoyable time. From left to right are Joan McDonald, Tina Grolman, Erna Wright, Eileen Wonnick, Kathryn Brooker, Marion Liebsch and Jane Donaldson. (Submitted photo)
Spring Bling Gala Benefits Those
Who Need Help in the
Community
By Pat Bailey
Nearly 300 guests, dressed in their finest, turned out for the Spring Bling Gala Saturday evening at Kingsville’s Lakeside Park Pavilion. The fundraiser for the Neighbourhood Charitable Alliance is expected to raise about $55,000. Funds raised from the event will support the group’s mission of increasing awareness of those in the community who need a helping hand; improving the community by helping those in need; reducing the financial burden for those struggling with illness or suffering financial hardship; advancing the sense of community with each act of kindness; promoting the effort to support struggling famiies, the schools, the churches and service organizations.
At left: J Stevens (left) of 100.7 Cool FM radio served as master of ceremonies for Saturday night’s Spring Bling Gala, while Leamington Councillor John Hammond handled the auctioneer duties.
Miss Teenage Southwestern Ontario Olivia Kuhlmann was on hand to volunteer her services selling raffle tickets.
Members of the board include, from the left, James Flynn, Kim Lewis Jr., Harold Konrad, Gloria Cavenago, Shawn Chapman, Tim Dobson and president and founder Matt Isaacs. Absent, Tony Gaffan and Carrie Pinard.
Senior men’s curling wraps up with “Turkey Shoot”
The Tuesday Men’s League at the Sun Parlour Curling Club wrapped up league play for the season with a “Turkey Shoot” after their regular games. This involved throwing the curling stone from the hacks on Ice 4 to the frozen turkeys spread across the opposite corner on Ices 1 and 2. The thrower of the rock that was closest to the turkey at the end of the throwing got to take home the turkey. There was also a “Lucky Duck” on the ice.
Winners of the turkeys included Tom Bondy, Wayne Quinn, Chris Vilag, Bob Bee, Rick Metz and Jim Sudds. The “Lucky Duck” went home with Lionel Aasen.
Wives of the players, including Helen Kettle, Joan Kettle and Carol Quinn, prepared and served an excellent lunch and the men did the dishes
RON JAMES Friday, April 15
JASON DERULO UNDER 19 WELCOME: MATURE CONTENT Saturday, May 7
PAT BENATAR & NEIL GIRALDO WE LIVE FOR LOVE TOUR Sunday, May 15
TIM ALLEN Friday, May 20
JEFF DUNHAM PERFECTLY UNBALANCED SOLD OUT Saturday, May 21
2 ND SHOW ADDED Friday, August 5
THE KILLERS OPEN TO ALL AGES
Thursday, June 2
THE MONKEES
GOOD TIMES: THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR Saturday, June 4
Earl Dunmore, convenor of the league, was very pleased with the success of the season and the final wrap-up day.
Big Buck Sportsmen’s Show to return
By Bryan Jessop
The Windsor to Toronto corridor’s biggest display of products for the outdoors enthusiast will soon make its way back to the Essex-Kent border.
The 12th annual Big Buck Sportsmen’s Show — presented by the Southwest Outdoors Club — will return to Tilbury Memorial Arena Saturday, Apr. 16. The large-scale presentation of fishing and hunting equipment and supplies draws hundreds of anglers, hunters and other outdoor adventurers from across Southwestern Ontario, Michigan and Ohio.
Last year’s show drew a minimum of 1,200 paid adults and between 250 and 300 youths. The family-oriented event features an admission fee of $5 per person and is free to children 12 years of age and under. Organizers with the SOC predict another turnout of about 1,500 visitors to peruse the displays of more than 50 vendors and displays and events that have proven popular with crowds over the past 11 years.
Returning attractions will include the outdoor trout fishing pond near Ryder Hall, sponsored by Liquiforce No-Dig Pipelines. Ryder Hall will also host the supervised indoor archery shoot for kids.
Hunters will also have the opportunity to bring deer and moose racks, turkey beards and bear skulls to be measured and scored by the Foundation for the Recognition of Ontario Wildlife (FROW). The competition — sponsored by Buck Fever Synthetic Scents — will be conducted by FROW representatives including the Beasley Brothers, hosts of award-winning hunting show Canada In The Rough. Trophies will be presented at the end of the show. Participants must register their entries before 1 p.m.
“The feedback from those who attend the show is very positive, and those who’ve attended in the past always seem quite excited to return.”
— Dan Reive
A new addition to this year’s show will be a series of five 30-minute seminars throughout the day sponsored by Canadian Tire. These seminars will cover Lake Erie bass fishing, the return of the spring bear hunt, muskie fishing techniques and two presentations on deer hunting.
“We try to bring something new and interesting to the show each year,” said SWOC president Dan Reive. “This year it’s the seminars, and we’re really excited about this addition. We also have several new vendors, raffles, and loads of great door prizes to give away.”
The show will also include a $1,000 cash raffle drawn at 4 p.m. and give away more than $2,500 in hourly door prizes, including fishing rods, tackle boxes, hunting knives, Coleman stoves and other items. A draw for an Excalibur crossbow package valued at $1,300 will also be featured. Many door prizes are donated by participating vendors, including custom duck calls. Approximately one third of this year’s vendors will attend the SOC show for the first time while the other two third are returning from previous years.
Turkey hunting license tests can also be taken during the show with three sessions available. Throughout the seven-hour event, food will be available at the arena’s canteen while live music will take place on the arena floor. There will also be a cash bar.
“The feedback from those who attend the show is very positive, and those who’ve attended in the past always seem quite excited to return,” Reive added. “The club puts a lot of work into organizing this event, and it pays off. People have a good time and we raise the funds needed to support some of the many projects we do.”
ERIC BURDON & THE ANIMALS WITH SPECIAL GUEST EDGAR WINTER BAND Saturday, June 11
MARTINA McBRIDE Friday, June 17
GAVIN DeGRAW Sunday, June 19
TEARS F0R FEARS Sunday, July 17
Tickets on sale April 16!
OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN Thursday, July 21
Tickets on sale now!
MAKS & VAL
TO ALL AGES Friday, July 22 RAIN A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES Friday, July 29
Tickets on sale April 16!
Tickets available at the Box Office, CaesarsWindsor.com, ticketmaster.ca or charge by phone 1-888-345-5885.
LIVE AT BRITISH BEAT 66 SATURDAY, APRIL 16 | 9PM – 1AM
Proceeds from the show will be used in support of Southwest Outdoor Club events and programs taking place throughout the year. These include the annual Kids Fishing Derby and Big Boyz Fishing Tournament — both based in Wheatley — as well as trout stocking, tree plantings, habitat creation, supervised youth hunts and numerous other wilderness activities.
The non-profit Southwest Outdoors Club presently includes more than 130 members from across ChathamKent and Essex County, including several women and entire families. Meetings are held upstairs at the Wheatley Royal Canadian Legion on Erie Street North starting at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month. More information on the SWOC and the Big Buck Sportsmen’s Show can be found on its Facebook page.
Senior Men’s Curling League members participate in the dishwashing after their luncheon on the final wrap-up day. From left, Will Patkau, Bob Bee, Cliff Kettle, Ron Kettle and Wayne Quinn share in the fun.
“You’re the Heart of Our Success”
Juried Student Art Show
(Continued from page 13)
A special award, the Future Artist Award, is given out by Marg Ross on behalf of her late husband Don Ross. Each year $100 is awarded to the best essay submitted by a graduating student entering an art program. This year’s winner was Drew Sovran.
The Student Juried Art exhibit will be on display at the Leamington Arts Centre until April 23. Be sure to take a walk through and see the local art talent and be sure to cast your vote for People’s Choice, which will be tallied at the end of the exhibit (one vote per person).
Acrylic
Sandwich Sec. HM – Simona Boicuic, Poverty
Sandwich Sec. 3rd – Megan Morency, Clear Thoughts
Sandwich Sec. 2nd – Ariel Shearer, Green Sky 1st – Drew Sovran, Labels
Oil
3rd – Krista Wilson, Hendrix Trip
Sandwich Sec. 2nd – Courtney Gregorian, The End Where I Begin
Sandwich Sec. 1st – Brock Brian Hectic Ice
Watercolour
LD. HM – Mina Wiebe, Dexter
Sandwich Sec. 3rd – Kaitlynn Lessard, Gaia
Sandwich Sec. 2nd – Kaitlyn Donaldson, Old Fashioned Ink
Sandwich Sec. 1st – Mena Rimac, Nonna’s Kitchen
Drawing
Sandwich Sec. HM – Ashley Kerr, We’re Not In Florence
Sandwich Sec. 3rd – Spencer Ginn, Venus Reborn 2nd – Emma Flynn, Best Friend
Sandwich Sec. 1st – Megan Morency, Free Your Imagination
Mixed Medium
LD. HM – Mina Wiebe, Van Gogh
Sandwich Sec. 3rd - Andrea Loubert, A New Found Life
Sandwich Sec. 2nd - Kaitlyn Donaldson, Deep In The Woods
Sandwich Sec. 1st - Simona Boicuic, A Bird In A Tree
Sculpture
Sandwich Sec. HM –
Sallma Majthoub, Amelia
Sandwich Sec. 3rd –
Alyssa Harris, Bridge To Betterment
Sandwich Sec. 2nd –Taya Baird, Dragon’s Lair
Sandwich Sec. 1st –Chyenne Wilson, Trilogy
Photography
Sandwich Sec. HM –Ariel Shearer, Rusted
Time
Sandwich Sec. 3rd –Craig Baggio, Remember
Me
Sandwich Sec. 2nd –Kaitlyn Donaldson, Cascade
Sandwich Sec. 1st – Logan Paroian, Freedom
Digital
Sandwich Sec. HM –Colin Laughland, Follow The Lonely Road
Sandwich Sec. 3rd –
Sydney Cremasco, Geometric Jovi
Sandwich Sec. 2nd –Allison Victor, Fear & Disquiet
Sandwich Sec. 1st – Andrea Loubert, Flesh Crawl
Film
LD. 3rd - Khang
Nguyen, Falling Apart, Falling Together
Sandwich Sec. 2nd –
Rachel Timmins, The Door
Sandwich Sec. 1st –
Sydney Cremasco Dina
Al-Hayale, Angela Bi, Sarah Foote, Run
CILISKA EXCAVATING
SPCC Hosts Final Bonspiel of the Season
Sun Parlour Curling Club had their final bonspiel and closing party of the year on Saturday, April 3. The only team that went undefeated in the second draw was the Repman Team. They defeated both the second place overall team and the third place overall team. The team was, from left to right, skip Christian Repman, second Stephanie Heaton, vice Gary McRae and lead Sue Markham. The closing bonspiel is usually the teams playing 9 holes of golf and curling 8 ends. Because of the poor weather, they were only able to curl two 6-end games. (Submitted photo)
Rhine Danube bowling scores
The following are the Rhine Danube bowling league scores for March 28.
Games Over 200: Ozzie Wolf 213-204-204, Gary Garnham 210, Heinz Kosempel 225222-225, Chris Kosempel 216-258-205, Willy Fittler 221, Brent Bishop 206-207, Tys Schaafsma 213, Jack Valade 205, Gary Smith 215-203, Eric Zimmer 225.
Series Over 550: Ozzie Wolf 621, Heinz Kosempel 672, Chris Kosempel 679, Willy Fittler 588, Manfred Dickau 570, Brent Bishop 587, Tys Schaafsma 592, Gary Smith 602, Eric Zimmer 622.
High Handicap Games: Chris Kosempel 288, Tys Schaafsma 276, Bob Barnett 273. High Handicap Series: Tys Schaafsma 781, Chris Kosempel 769, Rob Gerhardt 759, Heinz Kosempel 759.
Standings: Taki’s 61, Fittler Farms 54, Dickau Construction 51, Del Fresco 44, Rhine Danube 42, Weil’s Food 42.
Dale Butler is a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and a storyteller, who gives enthusiastic performances. Based in Leamington, Dale is popular and well known in the area, performing a variety of music appealing to all ages. He blends Folk/Country/Bluegrass & Gospel and performs as a soloist, duo with wife Judy and 5pc band, "Dale Butler & Friends."
A full time musician, Dale plays at senior homes, church fundraising concerts, fairs, festivals and house concerts.
Dale founded and hosts "The Last Friday Coffee House" in Leamington and has 6 CDs of original music. At the 2014 Kingsville Folk Music Festival Dale shared the stage with Valdy, Rick Heyens & J.P.Cormier and in 2015, Dale hosted a workshop with Pavlo, Donnell Leahy & Guy Davis.
Dale shares his guitar skills over the festival weekend: Learn to play guitar in 2 minutes, for all ages!
https://www.reverbnation.com/dalebutler
Danika
Bailey Atom girls win league championship
Southpoint Bailey Machining Atom girls faced the Lakeshore Lightning Blue on Sunday for the Essex-Kent Girls Hockey Interlock Day of Champs.
Bailey’s starting line-up of Abbey Mazzella, Brooke DaCosta, Danika Romanyk, Leah Youssef and Adriana West came out strong. As the puck dropped they barreled down the ice as a team and had several scoring attempts within seconds. Within less than 45 seconds of the puck drop, Brooke DaCosta passed to Danika Romanyk who took a couple of shots. Abbey Mazzella scooped up the rebound to tap it in the net.
Baileys worked really hard to keep the 1-0 lead. Meaghan Simpson, Blair Bailey, Daesa Minaudo and Bricelyn Koehler did a great job keeping the puck in the zone. Emma Weil, Mila Pereira and Abby Neufeld defended Bailey’s zone and kept the Lightning out. Bailey’s Raegan Woodiwiss, Megan Derbyshire, Adriana West and Leah Youssef were key players surviving two penalty kills.
The game was evenly matched and play was fast. Neither team would back down. Adriana West spotted a breakaway opportunity and dangled her way down the ice to take a shot on net, but it was saved by the Lightning goalie. As the second period came to a close, Baileys maintained their 1-0 lead.
The Lightning came out strong in the third and had two scoring opportunities, but Evan Gualtieri stood on her head and made some amazing saves. Baileys turned up the heat and Alessia West busted through with a couple of breakaway chances.
There was a lot of activity in front of Evan Gualtieri, but the Bailey girls managed to keep the puck clear of the net. Leah Youssef made an excellent block to keep Baileys ahead of the game.
As the third period came to a close, Baileys managed to shut out the Lightning and were victorious.
Southpoint Baileys are EKGHIL Atom Division League champions! Congratulations on a very successful season!
Local hockey player a part of championship team
Leamington hockey player Milana Butera was part of the championship team that was victorious over Kitchener 4-0 in the final game to earn the gold medal in the Provincial Championship for the Windsor Wildcats Peewee A team. She also scored the insurance goal to solidify the lead. Milana, who just turned 12 years old, is a student at Queen of Peace school. The youngest player on her team, she is third in scoring. She has recently been recognized and picked to play for the Regional Express Gold All-Star hockey team, designed to offer young talented-aspiring hockey players an opportunity to compete with top players from Canada and the United States. As well, Milana was invited to play in Rush the Hockey Tournament (Draft Day Hockey), both in the GTA spring hockey forum.
In Toronto this past weekend, Apr. 8-10, the Windsor Wildcats Peewee A’s competed for the OWHA Provincial Championship. They went 3-0 in round robin pool play against Owen Sound 6-2, Brampton 5-1, and Toronto Leaside 2-1. They went on to beat the Ottawa Ice 2-1 in the quarter-finals to set up another rematch against Toronto Leaside, coming out on top 2-1 in the semi-final. The semi win sent the Wildcats to a final against Kitchener. This was the third time this season the two teams had met and the Wildcats won the championship over the second-ranked Kitchener Lady Rangers. The 4-0 victory completed an undefeated weekend 6-0.
The team’s season total includes 50 wins, 8 losses, and 6 ties. Season highlights: Gold - Markham Stouville Tournament; Gold - Windsor Hocktoberfest Tournament; SilverCambridge Tournament; LLFHL West Champions; Bronze - LLFHL Finals Weekend; Gold - Provincials Weekend.
Other Windsor Wildcats Peewee A players from the area are goalie Hanna LeClaire of Ruthven and Sophie Coristine of Kingsville.
Congratulations on a great finish to a successful season well deserved!
Bailey Machining Atom girls defeated Lakeshore Lightning Blue to win the EKGHIL championship. Team members, front, left to right: Abbey Mazzella, Evan Gualtieri, Megan Derbyshire, Adriana West. Middle row: Meaghan Simpson, Leah Youssef, Emma Weil, Sienna Gale, Abigail Neufeld, Daesa Minaudo. Back row: Bricelyn Koehler, Kevin Gale (assistant coach), Alessia West, Brooke DaCosta, Eric West (assistant coach), Blair Bailey,
Romanyk, Raegan Woodiwiss, Mila Pereira, Tony Youssef (coach).
Windsor Wildcats Peewee A’s Milana Butera of Leamington shows off the gold medal she and her teammates received as Provincial Champions. Other local players are goalie Hanna LeClaire of Ruthven and Sophie Coristine of Kingsville. (Submitted photo)
The American dream
Jessop’s Journal
I’m quite the bitter hockey fan right now.
First, bitter about the Leamington Flyers losing the Western final to London. Like all reporters, sports reporters are supposed to be 100 per cent neutral and objective in every event they cover.
I think I’ve done a reasonably good job of that with all the non-sports topics I’ve covered, but it’s quite difficult to do when it comes to the Flyers, Sharks and all other local teams, whether they be in minor sports or WECSSAA (high school). I always enjoy watching the Leamington-Wheatley-Southpoint teams win and find it disappointing when they lose. Professionally, I’m not supposed to care. Personally, I can’t help it. Secondly, the impending NHL playoffs. Not a single damn Canadian team to cheer. Whenever a die-hard hockey fan’s team doesn’t make the post season, he or she finds a temporary favourite to root for, usually a team that he or she has always kind of admired or has at least been indifferent to in the past.
This year (for me at least), that’s going to be more difficult than usual. My sentiments on six of the eight Western teams range from dislike to downright hate. I’m indifferent toward the St. Louis Blues and admire the Minnesota Wild (despite their idiotic name) because they hail from one of the VERY few American regions that rivals Canada’s love of hockey. Problem is, I can’t see either team advancing to the conference semis.
My stance on the eight Eastern contenders, as a whole, aren’t much different. I have a very neutral opinion of Washington and Pittsburgh and I can root for Detroit as the league’s most local team — I even still have a Red Wings key chain bottle opener I bought from the last game my Dad and I attended just before passports were required to cross the border.
As for the other five teams? Hate ’em. Hate ’em all.
So, now that I’ve wrapped up my rather lengthy preamble, I’ll take a crack at this season’s conference quarterfinal outcomes.
Eastern Conference
Washington vs. Philadelphia — The Caps’ lethal offense against the Flyers’ less-than-stellar defense should make this a quick one. Philly is also exactly .500 on the road and Washington has lost a grand total of seven — count ‘em SEVEN — home games in regulation. Being the President’s Trophy winner is often considered a curse come playoff time, but not for Washington… at least not yet. Washington in five.
Florida vs. NY Islanders — I’ve never been a big fan of Jaromir Jagr, but you’ve got to admire the impact he’s had
on his team at the ripe old age of 44. The Panthers have been impressive on both sides of the puck and they don’t rely a whole lot on players who’ve piled up on penalty minutes. The Islanders are also a well-disciplined team, but don’t have a ton of depth. If I was behind the bench, I’d throw Halak in net and see what happens. Florida in six.
Pittsburgh vs. NY Rangers — Crosby’s done a better-thanusual job of avoiding the injury bug this year, but can he actually start producing in the playoffs? New York, meanwhile, doesn’t have a single player who was even close to producing a point per game. I think this one will be closer than it should be on paper, but we can still expect the expected. Pittsburgh in seven.
Tampa Bay vs. Detroit — Congratulations to the Red Wings on qualifying for the post season for 25 consecutive years, albeit by the skin of their teeth a few times in recent years. Unfortunately, they possess the unflattering title of the playoff team with the worst goals for/goals against ratio at -13. I can’t help but wonder if Datsyuk, playing his final year of NHL hockey, will have his heart in this one. I’d like to see Detroit win this one, but I can’t see it happen. Tampa Bay in six.
Western Conference
Dallas vs. Minnesota — I honestly can’t remember the last time a team made the playoffs with as few as 87 points. Boston’s 93 wasn’t good enough in the East (time to balance the conferences, Bettman). The Dallas Stars have also put up some interesting stats as a playoff team. They boast the best offence in the league with 267 goals, but are also by far the worst post season team defensively, having allowed 230.The Wild, however, only have three players who topped the 20goal mark this season. Dallas in five.
Anaheim vs. Nashville — There’s a seven-point divide between these teams, but Nashville is actually a bit better offensively. Pekka Rinne’s goaltending has been suspect this year, however. With .919 and .920 save percentages respectively, the Ducks can put either Andersen or Gibson in net without giving it a second thought. As much as I hate the Ducks’ very existence… Anaheim in seven.
St. Louis vs. Chicago — Here we have one of the best playoff teams in recent years against one of the worst playoff teams… ever. Vladimir Tarasenko can put the puck in the net, but the rest of the Blues aren’t nearly as dangerous. The Hawks have their usual arsenal of goal getters and Corey Crawford’s been rock solid in the crease. Chicago in four.
Los Angeles vs. San Jose — San Jose hasn’t been too impressive in the post season over the past few years and L.A. has been tough to beat. Still, the Sharks’ top six in points have missed a combined total of four regular season games. Their top five have missed one. Their top four have missed zero. You know the hockey gods are smiling at you when your healthiest players are the ones who do most of the scoring. Oh, and only the Caps are as good on the road. San Jose in seven.
SPCC Raffle Benefits Junior Curling
Each winter Sun Parlour Curling Club holds a ticket raffle of just 500 tickets to win a grand prize in support of the Junior Curling Program at the club. This year the grand prize was won by SPCC member Gemma Bowman, who took home a BBQ Party Package that included a beautiful barbecue and gift certificates for food and beverages. Second place and third place winners, Andy Barraco and Bob Kipping, also received gift certificates. (Submitted photo)
Golden Years golf report
On a cold and rainy Apr. 7, thirty-six Golden Years golfers managed to drop 51 aces at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens. The outstanding player of the day was Andy Orsini with 4 aces. Coming in a close second with 3 aces were Julia Kos, Perpetua Hildrop, Marilynn Speed, Bill Ward and Doug Vickery. There were 2 aces dropped by 10 golfers, and 12 golfers managed 1 ace each.
Bill Mayville had an outstanding round of 16 for 9 holes. Also having a fantastic round of 17 were Andy Orsini, Laurie Hylton, Marilynn Speed, Art Sweet, Wanda Hayes, Eileen McIntosh, Bill Ward (2) and Bob Larsern. Eighteen was scored by Andy Orsini, Bill Mayville, Mary Binder, Bob McWilliam, Tom Dewhurst, Laurie Hylton, Art Sweet, Eva Kah, Pete Daudlin, Marie Lasi, Jim Allan, Doug Vickery and Bill Taylor.
After the first 18 holes, Bill Mayville led the way with a score of 34. Laurie Hylton and Wanda Hayes kept the pres-
sure on Bill with a score of 35. Close behind with 36 were Andy Orsini, Eileen McIntosh, Bill Ward and Bob Larsen. Finally, with a score of 34 were Mary Binder and Bill Ward.
Taking over the lead for 36 holes with a winning score of 73 for the day was Bill Ward. He was followed by Andy Orsini with 74, and Bill Mayville, Laurie Hylton and Eileen McIntosh with 75. Other good rounds were by Art Sweet and Doug Vickery with 77, Mary Binder with 78 and John Murphy with 79.
First place with 230 went to Team 1 (Andy Orsini, Bill Mayville, Pete Daudlin). Team 6 (Norbert Gisi, Art Sweet, John Murphy) took second with 239. Third place with 240 went to Team 9 (Ethel Ferguson, Wanda Hayes, Eileen McIntosh).
The Year-End Banquet will be held on the last day of golf which is May 12. Until then, play continues every Thursday at 9:30 a.m. at Colasanti’s.
BRYAN JESSOP
NOTICES
Notice of Public Information Centre Study of One-Way Streets: Chestnut/Fox – Victoria/Wigle
Members of the public are invited to attend a Public Information Centre (PIC) to provide input and comments on a traffic study of Leamington’s one-way couplets, namely Chestnut/Fox and Victoria/Wigle.
Date and Time: Tuesday, April 19, 2016 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Drop-in Format)
Location: Leamington Municipal Building, 111 Erie Street North, Leamington
Description of Study: The aforementioned streets have operated as one-way couplets since 1983. Since the opening of the East Side Arterial Road, traffic patterns have changed. Leamington Municipal Council has authorized a traffic study to examine possible strategic operational improvements or traffic calming measures.
The traffic study is being undertaken by RC Spencer Associates Inc., Consulting Engineers. Staff from the RC Spencer Associates Inc., will be present to discuss the status quo, illustrate possible options, and receive comments and feedback from the public.
If you are unable to attend the PIC, and would like to provide comments or receive further information, please contact:
Allan Botham, Manager of Engineering Services, Municipality of Leamington 111 Erie Street North, Leamington, ON, Phone: 519-326-5761 ext. 1502
Email: abotham@leamington.ca
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
IN THE ESTATE OF ANTONIOS NOHRA, also known asTOM NOHRA
All claims against the Estate of ANTONIOS NOHRA, also known asTOM NOHRA, late of the Municipality of Leamington, in the County of Essex, who died on or about the 20th day of March, 2016 must be filed with the undersigned personal representative on or before the 13th day of May, 2016. Thereafter the undersigned will distribute the assets of the estate having regard only to the claims then filed.
Dated: April 5th, 2016. Matthew M. Caron PEARSALL, MARSHALL, HALLIWILL & SEATON LLP. Barristers and Solicitors 22 Queens Avenue Leamington, Ontario N8H 3G8
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ERNEST CARL TOEẄS late of the Municipality of Leamington, In the County of Essex and Province of Ontario, who died on February 23, 2015
Creditors and others having claims against the above estate are required to send full particulars of the same to the undersigned solicitors for the Estate Trustee on or before the 2nd day of May, 2016 after which date the estate’s assets will be distributed having regard only to claims that have been received.
Dated at Leamington, Ontario this 4th day of April, 2016.
SAWATZKY BALZER Barristers and Solicitors 5 Russell Street Leamington, Ontario N8H 1T7
519-322-2341
Solicitors for the Estate Trustee
Notice
Dog Registration Enforcement
Representatives of the Municipality of Leamington will attend door to door selling dog tags commencing April 19, 2016. The cost of a dog tag is $40.00 per dog which includes the late fee. Each municipal representative will be identified with a Municipality of Leamington identification name tag.
Everyone who owns or keeps a dog within the Municipality of Leamington must register their dog by purchasing a dog tag. No one is allowed to own more than two dogs or keep more than two dogs on a property unless the property is licensed as an approved dog kennel. Anyone failing to comply with By-law 668-06 may receive a fine.
Information regarding Dog Registration including the Dog Tag Registration Form may be found on Leamington’s website www.leamington.ca/dogs
If you have not yet purchased dog tags, they may also be purchased at the Leamington Municipal Office, 111 Erie Street North.
Cougars compete in WECSSAA gymnastics
By Bryan Jessop
a dozen students at Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School are making an effort to ‘raise the bar’ for potential future teammates.
All six of the athletes on the Cougars’ gymnastics team competed in this year’s Windsor Essex County Secondary School Athletic Association (WECSSAA) competition, held in Windsor Monday, Apr. 4. The team set out with hopes of achieving last year’s milestone, where all eight Cardinal Carter entries qualified for the OFSAA tournament.
The 2015-16 season marks the second for the Cougars after returning to the sport following a 20-plus year hiatus. This year’s team is made up of Grade
9 student Mariah Pimentel, Grade 10 student Julia Pearce and Grade 12 students Dominique Nickels, Gabrielle Policella, Cristina Pearce and the squad’s only male entry, Sebastian Sarkis. All five Cardinal Carter girls competed in four female disciplines — the vault, parallel bars, balance beam and floor exercise. Sarkis entered five of six boys’ categories — the vault, pommel horse, floor exercise, parallel bars and rings. The only event he opted out of was the high bar.
“We’re starting off small and hopefully, we can keep it going,” explained teacher supervisor Maria Pearce, a staff member at Queen of Peace Catholic Elementary School and mother of Julia and Cristina. “We’d like to see our numbers grow for future years.”
This year’s WECSSAA gymnastics meet was held in two parts at the Winstars Gymnastics Training Centre in Windsor, the same location where the Cougars team members have trained three times per week since the season began in early December. The Cardinal Carter group is led by coach Melynda Outram, who works out of the Winstars Centre.
The local school’s athletes were pitted against competitors from 11 other Windsor-Essex County schools from both the Greater Essex County District School Board and Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board. In girls’ categories, the top six finishers in each event qualify for OFSAA, also to be hosted by the Winstars Gymnastics Training Center April 25-26. Boys divisions do not advance beyond WECSSAA. Without a sufficient number of gymnastics entries in Kent and Lambton regions, the 2016 season will not include a SWOSSAA tournament between WECSSAA qualifications and the provincial championships.
The following Cougars qualified for this year’s OFSAA competition:
• Cristina Pearce (Level 2) — third in vault, sixth in bars, first in floor;
• Gabrielle Policella (Level 2) — fifth in vault, fourth in beam, second in floor;
• Dominique Nickels (Level 2) — fifth in beam;
• Julia Pearce (Level 6) — second in bars, sixth in beam.
“All team members did especially well,” said Maria Pearce, explaining that Pimentel did a fantastic job in vault and floor for her first competition. She was also impressed with Sarkis’s display of talents in all six men’s events.
Last year, Julia Pearce captured OFSAA gold in the vault. Julia also competes in gymnastics meets outside of the secondary school loop.
Last year’s return to gymnastics for the Cougars was backed by eight team members — five girls and three boys. The numbers dwindled somewhat this year because of 2014-15 students who’ve since graduated and advanced to post secondary educations.
Sun Parlour Locksmith win LWHL playoffs
From left to right, Mariah Pimentel, Julia Pearce, Cristina Pearce, Gabrielle Policella and Dominique Nickels represented Cardinal Carter during this year’s WECSSAA gymnastics tournament, held Monday, Apr. 4 in Windsor.
Sebastian Sarkis of the Cougars performs on the men’s parallel bars during the annual WECSSAA tournament, held Monday, Apr. 4 in Windsor. Sarkis competed in five of six events, although there is no OFSAA level of competition for men’s events.
The Leamington Women’s Hockey League wrapped up its season on Monday, April 4. This year the league was able to make a donation of $600 to pay for the hockey registration of one deserving girl in the Southpoint Minor Hockey Association. Ten-year-old Abbi Neufeld, a Southpoint Stars Atom player, was the lucky recipient. Pictured in back, from left, are Sarah Whittal Sharron, incoming LWHL president, Kelly Dries, Southpoint Stars Hockey and LWHL representative, and Irene Impens, LWHL outgoing president. The LWHL celebrated its 16th season with five teams and approximately 70 ladies – of varying ages and skill levels – who enjoy the sport and comaraderie every Monday night. (SUN PHOTO)
The ladies of Sun Parlour Locksmith won the championship game over Body Kneads on Monday, April 4. Pictured here are team members. In front is goalie Brittany Stevenson. Front row, from left: Kristen Fleming, Sue Enns, Kristi Kennedy, Amber Taylor, Ryanne Johns, Sarah Fotheringham and Anders. Back row, from left: Ryah Cottingham, Katie Clubb, Theresa Lowe, Karen Dunn, Barb Viegli, Jessica Duchene and Amanda Woudwyk. Absent was Theresa Lowe. (SUN Photo)
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FIORE TOWER
Newly Renovated 2 bedroom apartments available now. Walk-to shopping. Walk-in pantry, utilities included, on-site manager, secure building, laundry, elevator, party room. Call 519-326-4622
CALL KAHL RECYCLINGWe come to you and haul away your junk. Scrap metal and appliances are free. Everything else has a fee. Call Ken 519-322-8305, 519-326-8559. ja14-tf
INCOME TAX - Confidential preparation of Personal, Farm and Senior Returns. Pick up and delivery available. E-file or regular filing. Over 35 years experience. Call Tim Mousseau at 519975-2414 or toll-free at 1855-975-2414. fe3-ap13
J J STITCHING - SEWING, alterations, and repairs. Pants shortened $8.50 plus tax. (Some exceptions may apply such as lined pants). If your clothing is too tight or too baggy, give me a call to see if it can be altered. Call Jean at 519-968-2261. 14 Johnson Avenue, Leamington. jjstitching@gmail.com ja13-jn29
INDOOR/OUTDOOR CARPENTRY - Renovations and repairs, windows (full warranty), doors, painting, flooring, basements, drywall, kitchens, bathroom. Decks, fences, sheds & vinyl siding. Free estimates. 35 years experience. We install windows and doors year round (senior discount). Call Bill at 519-566-8408. mr30-ap20
INCOME TAX PREPARATION 20 years experience $35 per return, includes efiling. Call Deanna at 519-3262770. ap13-20
PRINTING: BUSINESS ENVELOPES,invoices, flyers, business cards, custom print jobs, whatever your printing needs, call Jim at The Sounthpoint Sun for quick and economical service, 519-398-9098. tf
ITEMS FOR SALE
ELECTRIC TREADMILL
TX400 - good condition. Asking $100. Call Steve 519-324-5879. ap6-13
WALNUT DINING TABLE and four chairs. Good shape. 519-326-1389. ap13-20
PUBLIC AUCTION
Old Fashioned Auctions
Sunday, April 17
14 Orange St., Leamington
Preview 8:00 am • Coins 8:30 am• Auction 9:30 am 226-344-8741 • 226-344-1732 ............. Antiques, Collectables & More ............. oldfashionedauctions@yahoo.ca
COMING UP
EUCHRE EVERY
THURSDAY evening, 7:00 p.m. at Leamington United Church, 9 John Street. $3 per person. Proceeds for Fellowship Dinners. ap13-20
LINE DANCING - COME on guys & gals - get into shape for the summer. Great fun and cardiac workout. All ages welcome. Beginners welcome. Leamington Half Century Club, 160 Talbot Street East. Monday morning 9:30 - 10:30 am and Thursday Night 7:00 - 8:30 pm. ap6-20
KINGSVILLE LEGION BRANCH 188 Friday Night Dinners 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Weekly Specials $14 (Ribs or Perch). Other weekly menu items $12. Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month 8:00 p.m. 519-7335162 (office) or 519-7339081 (bar). ja6-tf
RUMMAGE SALELEAMINGTON United Church, 9 John Street. Friday, April 15 - 9:00 am to 1:00 pm Saturday, April 169:00 am to 12 noon. ap6-13
ESSEX-KENT BLUEGRASS Music Association presents 5 Time IBMA Female Vocalist of the Year, Dale Ann Bradley. Saturday, April 16 at McGregor K of C, 9560 Walker Road. Opening band is The Essex County AllStars. Tickets $20 in advance. Call 519776.8716. $25 at the door. ap6-13
ARTISIANS AND COLLECTORS - Consignment space available for art, collectables, refinished or vintage décor and furniture. For more information visit www.findyourgreen.ca/con signment.html ap13-27
EXPERIENCED SHORT ORDER COOK
REQUIRED IN A FAST PACED RESTAURANT Must be able to work weekends. Apply with resume to:
CHUCKWAGON
FAMILY RESTAURANT 32 Main St. W. Kingsville • 519-733-2395
The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington Manager of Recreation
SEASONAL HELP WANTED • Seasonal Full Time Positions Available • Day & Night Shifts • Wage: starting at $11.25/hour • Duties include: sort, pack, products/materials, clean work stations, assist machine operators Drop resume off at office or mail to: 483 Erie St., N., Wheatley, ON N0P 2P0 ATTN: Lori Or email resume to: lori.weil@weilsfood.ca
AZ / DZ DRIVERS
Required for spring season. Full-time / part-time positions available. Border-crossing experience an asset. Retirees welcome!
Apply with resume & abstract to: 263 Talbot St.W. Leamington, ON N8H 4H3 or E-mail resume & abstract to: cf@cfgroups.com
General Greenhouse Labour
Full-time position available immediately Hourly wage $11.25
35 - 40 hours per week / occasional Saturday Experience with Health & Safety (WSPS) an asset
Mail resume to: 263 Talbot St.W. Leamington, ON N8H 4H3 OR
E-mail resume to: cf@cfgroups.com OR Fax resume to: 519-322-2916
The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington Public Works Labourer/Operator
Reporting to the Director of Community and Development Services, the Manager of Recreation is responsible for the overall provision of services and day-to-day operations of the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex (LKRC) and the Municipal Marina to the levels as prescribed by Council and within approved budgets.
For complete details regarding this position please visit our website at www.leamington.ca/careers Application Deadline: 11:59 pm Sunday, April 17, 2016.
Reporting to the Public Works Supervisors, the Labourer/Operator is required to work in an outside work environment, exposed to all weather conditions. Physical work is required of the position including heavy, repetitive lifting, shoveling, digging, throwing, sweeping and walking. Daily use of hand tools, power tools and operation of municipal vehicles and equipment. The work environment involves some risk and discomfort including noxious weeds, debris, and dust. Must possess a valid Ontario Class ‘DZ’ Driver’s Licence.
For complete details regarding this position please visit our website at www.leamington.ca/careers
Application Deadline: 11:59 pm Thursday, April 21, 2016.
call or drop off your
Ph: 519-398-9098
2078 Talbot Rd.Ruthven ON NOW HIRING TRUCK DRIVERS
Seasonal Full Time, Seasonal Part Time,
Position for Class D license
Position for Class AZ license
Retirees welcome.
Apply In Person with Resume and Abstract.
Mon thru Fri
9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
LOOKING FOR 2 Farm
Tractor Drivers to start immediately. Experience an asset. Call 519-796-5302 or 519-324-9700. ap6-13
Armstrong Top Pack Ltd. is hiring 50 permanent, full time vegetable packers for its Leamington location to start as soon as possible.
Minimum Wage to start. 44 hours per week.
You should be able to lift up to 50 lbs. on a repetitive basis and be able to sort and pack fruits and vegetables in a fast paced environment.
No education or experience is required.
Apply in person from 9:00 to 5:00 at 500 County Road 18, Leamington, N8H3V5 or by email jobs@toppack.ca
EXPERIENCED APPOINTMENT CO-ORDINATOR
We are looking for an experienced Appointment Co-ordinator for our dealership. Responsibilities will include:
• Incoming and outgoing calls.
• Friendly outgoing personality.
• Ability to work independently in our upstairs office.
• Availability Monday through Friday plus some Saturdays.
• Job starts as part time, but could work into full time.
• Strong skill needed in appointment setting.
NO CALLS PLEASE Accepting resumes IN PERSON ONLY 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday Wages based upon experience.
108 Erie St. North, Leamington
GENERAL GREENHOUSE
LABOUR - Full time and full time part time positions available. 40-48 hours per week, weekends/holidays. Physically demanding work, load lifting required, hot humid environment. Minimum wage to start. Apply by fax: 519-326-6702 or email: hriprfms@gmail.com. mr30-jn1
DINIRO FARMS NEEDS full time greenhouse general labourers. $11.25/hour, 45+ hours, 7 days/week. Must be available Saturday and Sunday. Duties include plant, crop maintenance, harvest and pack. Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds on a repetitive basis. Please apply via email to: dinirofarms@wavedirect.net. eow-ap13
EXPERIENCED SERVERS, SHORT ORDER COOKS & DISHWASHER
Apply in Person at: 304 Robson Rd., Leamington
Nature Fresh Farms is looking to fill permanent full time positions for General Labour at $11.25/hour.
Job Description: Variation of Greenhouse and Warehouse duties. Specific duties can include: packing, planting, string tying, pruning, deleafing, twisting, clipping, picking, sorting, crop clean out, bio control, farm machinery operator.
You will have the potential to earn piece rate if production rate is high, however will earn no less than minimum wage. Please note climates can be very warm and hours will vary, must be available Monday-Saturday. Uniforms may be a requirement in some work areas and will be provided by the company. Weekly cleaning costs will apply. Safety shoes are mandatory. Experience is an asset however if the candidate shows commitment and potential we are willing to train.
Recruiters, please do not respond to this ad.
Please apply by:
Fax: 519-326-6356, In person: 634 Mersea Rd. 7 Via email: jobs@naturefresh.ca
MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL
• Great Lakes Greenhouses currently has full time position openings for maintenance personnel including welders, fabricators and electricians.
• Wages commensurate with experience.
• Send resumes by fax: 519-326-8964 or email: greenhousejobs1@gmail.com
WE ARE HIRING!
Attention: Looking for Hardworking, Dedicated individuals to fill the following PERMANENT POSITIONS: SERVICE & DELIVERY • LABOUR • DRIVERS
• Immediate positions available
• Must have good customer skills
• Clean, valid driving record a must (AZ-DZ an asset)
• Some weekend work is required
• Some heavy lifting is required GLEN
& SONS night Apply in person to:
Licensed 313A or 313D
Licensed 308A SERVICE PLUMBER
Licensed 306A
Licensed G3 (minimum)
Registered with OCOT Full Time, Benefits Available Prefer resume to be dropped off at: 238 Talbot St. W., Leamington, ON Resume must include school transcript, references and MVR (motor vehicle report) Alternatively - send to: 519-326-3632 Fax or grossi@grossiplumbing.ca
238 Talbot Street West, Leamington, ON N8H 1P1 PH: 519-326-9018 FAX: 519-326-3632 www.grossiplumbing.ca
The Leamington Flyers were hoping to earn two straight victories and win the Western final series against the London Nationals, but literally got tripped up along the way.
Leamington’s bid for a third consecutive Bill Weir Cup as Western Conference champs was dashed after the London Nationals bounced back from a 2-1 series deficit to win three in a row, including overtime victories in Games 5 and 6. The Flyers’ playoff record of 10 wins and six losses translated into a .625 winning percentage while the Waterloo Siskins’ nine wins and five losses equaled a slightly better .643, granting the sixth-place Mid Western team the wild card spot in the Sutherland Cup semifinals.
The Flyers were on the brink of a 2-1 win at Highbury Canco Arena Thursday, Apr. 7 to put the Nationals in a do-or-die situation for Game 6 in London, but fell victim to a late offensive charge from their Game 5 guests in the final minute of regulation. After tying the fifth game 2-2 with less than a minute in the third period, the Nats proceeded to bury the game winner early in overtime to instead put the Flyers in a must-win situation for Game 6 in London on Saturday.
The game-tying goal on Thursday was scored seconds after Jacob McGhee was tripped beside his team’s net. London’s forwards took possession from there and sent a shot from in front of the net and over the line to force extra minutes.
“I understand they’ll (referees) let some stuff go, but when the play could lead to a goal, you’ve got to call it,” Flyers head coach Tony Piroski said. “They didn’t make a call in the third and it cost us the game.”
Leamington’s offense held a slight edge in momentum for most of the first period, although the Nationals were first onto the scoreboard with what spectators saw as a controversial goal at the 5:44 mark. A low Kevin Madden shot beat net minder Tyler Wall from just in front of the crease during a rush toward the Leamington net. Officials determined that the puck crossed the goal line before the net was knocked off its moorings and into the Zamboni-doors corner of the rink.
With just under a minuteand-a-half to go, Liam Hogan evened the score by tapping a low shot of his own past Nats’ goalie Connor Hughes to tie the score at 1-1. Scott Emerson and Derek Elliott assisted on the goal, netted during the game’s first power play.
The Flyers outshot London 16-8 through the first 20 minutes, although Nationals defenders were able to block and deflect several shots.
Both teams had quality chances to add to the scoreboard, but only Mitchell Amante was able to find the back of the opposition’s net. While stationed between the hash marks and a couple steps away from the nearest London defender, Amante took a pass
NATS BEAT FLYERS IN SIX GAMES
BY BRYAN JESSOP
from behind and to the left of the net from Derek Elliott before sending a high wrist shot under the crossbar to give Leamington a 2-1 lead. Hogan drew the second assist on the go-ahead tally.
Wall made a string of key saves in the middle frame, starting with a breakaway save against Kyle Robinson. After taking a banked pass off the boards, Robinson rushed in for a clear shot against Wall, trying to make a jaunt to the goalie’s left for a chance to stuff the puck inside the right post. The rookie goalkeeper however read the play perfectly, closing the gap before Robinson could release the disc.
The Nationals managed an 11-10 shots advantage, although Wall foiled several chances to tie the game before the second buzzer.
our (Game 5) performance, although I would have liked to see more offense in the third instead of trying to protect the lead. We know the situation and we’ll come out hard on Saturday.”
Hogan’s two-point performance on Thursday brought his playoff total to nine goals and nine assists for 18 points, second on the Flyers only to veteran forward Amante.
“We’ve picked up the intensity, although there was a bit of a tailspin later on,” Hogan not-
Game 6, the Flyers fell 2-1 in double overtime. Leamington’s bench shortened by two players early in the game, as both Matthew Opblinger and Zack Parlette were sent to the dressing room with injuries. The Flyers have also spent the last few games without Cale Phibbs and Joe Urbanic as well as Luke Sanko, who served the second game of a two-match suspension.
Rai Di Loreto scored the equalizer for the Nationals with 54 seconds remaining in regulation, sending a point-blank, knee-high wrist shot past Wall after London’s bench pulled Hughes for the sixth skater. The Nationals outshot their hosts 9-8 in what was mostly a defensively-controlled third period.
ed. “We’ve been playing good hockey, giving me the chance to put some pucks in the net and pick up some points.”
Di Loreto completed the Game 5 heroics for London less than 90 seconds into overtime, sending a low shot into the left corner of the Flyers net, under the outstretched pad of Wall.
“We’ve got to bring our A game on Saturday and win one there — that’s all,” Piroski explained. “I’m happy with
Like his coaches and teammates, Hogan believed the Flyers deserved a more favourable fate Thursday night.
“We took it to them for the better part of the game,” he said. “We had more chances, but there were a couple bad breaks. We’ll come back determined for sure in the next game.”
Despite a spirited effort in
Amante started the scoring 20 seconds into the third period on a power play, assisted by McGhee. For the second time in as many games, one London forward provided both the equalizer and game winner. Kyle Robinson tied the match 3:13 into the second and after a scoreless overtime session, provided the game, series and conference winner 4:21 into the fifth period during a scramble in front of the Leamington net.
Connor Hughes stopped 44 of 45 for London while Michael Barrett steered aside 40 of 42. The Flyers were one for five on the power play while the Nationals were kept scoreless through eight.
“Through the whole series, we didn’t seem to get the breaks we needed,” said Piroski. “The boys battled hard and did what they could — it just wasn’t enough this season. I’m proud of the way we played.”
The Flyers will start preparing for the 2016-17 season with Spring Camp Saturday, May 7 and Sunday, May 8.
Flyers’ affiliate player Griffin Robinson takes control of a rebound near the London net as the Nationals’ Tyler Sehovic tries to prevent another shot during Game 5 of the Western Conference finals Thursday, Apr. 7 at Highbury Canco Arena. London tied the game in the final minute of regulation and won 3-2 in overtime. (Sun photo)
Zach Guilbeault zeroes in on the London net with the Nationals’ Sam Harris challenging. (Sun photo)
London’s Sam Harris and Leamington’s Derek Elliott race for a loose puck behind the London net during the second period. (Sun photo)