February 21, 2018

ERCA to aid in battle against Oak Wilt

Oak Wilt has potential to wipe out “old growth” stands

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) will join in the active battle to protect local forests from the impacts of Oak Wilt, a serious vascular disease of Oak tree species.

“In our region, Oak trees are a significant component to our Carolinian forests,” explained Rob Davies, ERCA’s Forester. “If Oak Wilt did become established here, all of our natural areas would be at risk of being negatively impacted. Many of these natural areas contain endangered habitats such as Pin and Black Oak Savanna, unique to all of Canada.”

As Oak trees take a long period to become established, they become a significant component to local forests and offer a long list of ecological benefits to natural areas. Many of the Oak dominated stands throughout the county have been identified as ‘old growth’ and Oak Wilt has the potential to wipe out these stands forever. As well, Essex Region is home to a significant Shumard Oak population which is a Species of Concern, and these trees would be at risk of succumbing to this disease.

Reported first in Michigan back in the 1940s, Oak Wilt has spread throughout the Eastern United States, and since 2009 Michigan State Parks alone have lost more than 500,000 trees while millions more have been destroyed throughout the state.

While it has not yet been found in Canada, in the fall of 2016 Oak Wilt was confirmed at Belle Isle State Park, just 600 metres away from the shores of the City of Windsor. Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has determined that Oak Wilt has killed more than 112 mature Oak trees on Belle Isle. This devastating disease has negatively impacted 48 acres of the island’s 200 acres of forest. It is assumed that the Oak Wilt fungus came to Belle Isle through the movement of infected firewood.

ERCA will join the City of Windsor, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and other partners to increase monitoring and awareness of this potentially devastating disease.

“Actions that can help protect our precious Oak trees include not pruning Oak species from April to August to prevent contact with picnic beetles, which spread the disease,” Davies said. “Not allowing movement of firewood is another key action, and ERCA will develop a plan to control and distribute firewood within its CA properties to minimize the risk of Oak Wilt, along with other pests and disease from entering our natural areas. ERCA staff will actively monitor for signs of Oak Wilt, which include sudden leaf drop or colour change in the summer months.”

ERCA will help reach out to engage partners, landowners and others to promote these best practices throughout the region.

Celebrating Life Long Love

Christina Harden served as the officiant of the six couples who arrived at the Seacliff Manor chapel to renew their vows for Valentine’s Day, Wednesday, Feb. 14. All six couples, including Dick and Tina Grohlman (65 years) pictured here, have been married for more than 50 years. The event, called “Celebrating Life Long Love,” included a live flute performance, champagne and a candlelight dinner for the couples of honour, their family members and other guests. Seacliff Manor sales and marketing manager Anna Leclair-Bruni presented each couple with a renewal certificate after all vows were completed. Other couples included Robert and Dorothy Grohlman (66 years), Tom and Jill Dearie (59 years), Hans and Suzanna Lippke (64 years), Ivan and Winnifred Drummond (69 years) and Arlo and Frances Drummond (64 years) — married for a combined 387 years. (SUN Photos)

Seacliff Manor sales and marketing manager Anna Leclair-Bruni offers a marriage vow renewal certificate to Hans and Suzanna Lippke (64 years) following the ceremony “Celebrating Life Long Love” at Seacliff Manor’s chapel Wednesday, Feb. 14 in honour of Valentine’s Day

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CCCMS hosts Multi-Cultural Night

Students at Cardinal Carter Catholic Middle School have become the latest group to embrace the multitude of ethnic backgrounds that make Leamington unique.

On Tuesday, Feb. 13, the school hosted a Multi-Cultural Night celebration in honour of the region’s ethnic diversity. The event was organized by the CCCMS Parent Council as part of the Ministry-funded Parents Reaching Out (PRO) Grant. The Multi-Cultural Night was held at the school in conjunction with the Grade 6-7 Open House for students interested in attending CCCMS in September of this year.

The first-of-its-kind celebration at the school showcased a collaboration of efforts between staff, students and parents to present slideshows, displays and culinary foods representing cultural backgrounds represented at CCCMS and throughout the Leamington

NO TAX

area. Each classroom presented a specific culture and demonstrations for the Middle Years Program (MYP) in robotics, academics, Google Classroom, student parliament and other in-school clubs and organizations.

The idea behind the two combined events was to engage CCCMS parents both present and future. Through the PRO grant — offered to amounts of up to $1,000 — a brochure called “A Parent’s Guide for The Middle Years Program” was created, available with translations into French, Spanish and Arabic. The grant itself is designated as a means of identifying barriers to parent engagement with their children in support of their education.

As part of the gathering, pancakes were served in honour of Shrove Tuesday. Organizers described the combined events as a success, attracting in excess of 300 guests.

Cardinal Carter Catholic Middle School students gather for a photo while showcasing the foods, music and traditions of various cultures during their Multi-Cultural Night Tuesday, Feb. 13. The students, along with their teachers and parents, joined forces to create slideshows and booths showcasing various cultures represented in the Leamington area.

With the flags of El Salvador, Mexico and Honduras as a backdrop, Cardinal Carter Catholic Middle School display samples of central American foods during Multi-Cultural Night celebrations at CCMS Tuesday, Feb. 13.

Therapy for Parkinson’s patients begins in Leamington

By Bryan Jessop

Patients of Parkinson’s Disease in the Leamington area and beyond are learning how to take some serious jabs at the effects of their conditions.

Boxing veteran Andre Courtemanche has stepped forward to assist local residents handling the effects and symptoms of Parkinson’s with a weekly series of workouts commonly associated with the sport he has been dedicated to for the past 30 years. The 60-minute sessions take place in the Exercise Room at Seacliff Manor each Thursday starting at 10 a.m. and are open to patients of Parkinson’s Disease from throughout Essex County.

Courtemanche approached Piroli Group Developments and Seacliff Manor recreation manager Erin Cousineau in search of a location to conduct the therapeutic sessions about two months ago. Rob Piroli offered the use of the Manor’s Exercise Room at no cost, which in turn allows Courtemanche to provide the courses free of charge. He was previously hosting a similar program at other locations, but at a rental cost.

“You really have to be thinking about what you’re doing, so it keeps the brain going.”

— Ivor Johnstone

“They like the room and the atmosphere, so we’re happy to let them use our space,” said Cousineau, who noted that while there are not currently any Seacliff Manor residents with Parkinson’s utilizing the program, they are welcome to do so.

With boxing workouts known to help patients of the neurodegenerative condition maintain mobility and motor skills, the local trainer’s ‘students’ have noticed positive results following only a handful of sessions.

“This is great for people with Parkinson’s,” said program participant Ivor Johnstone during the third weekly gathering at Seacliff Manor. “You really have to be thinking about what you’re doing, so it keeps the brain going. It’s as much about the brain as it is about brawn.”

Courtemanche, whose sons Don and Andre Jr. are also heavily involved in boxing, also conducts boxing programs as exercise and workout courses for non-Parkinson’s students at Movati Athletic in Kingsville on Tuesday nights and Saturday mornings as well as at Leamington Fitness on Wednesday mornings. So far, the specialized program at Seacliff

Manor has drawn as many as six students at one time. Courtemanche explained that while that turnout is ideal, he could accommodate as many as 10 at a time.

Over the course of the 60 minutes, participants go through seven or eight different stations including warm-ups and stretches, shadow boxes, use of the ‘heavy bag’, slam ball, push ups, sit ups and sparring where Courtemanche takes jabs and uppercuts with a set of punch mitts. In the event that more students attend, he can set up more stations.

“I really thank Erin and The Piroli Group for letting us use this room,” Courtemanche explained. “I wanted to set up something in a room on the main floor. You can see it on their faces that they really enjoy it. I’m just so happy I can help — for me, this is a passion.”

Courtemanche brings his own equipment for use at each gathering, but noted that boxing gloves can be purchased locally at Canadian Tire for less than $50 per pair.

Statistics Canada conducting national cannabis survey

Statistics Canada will be conducting a survey aimed at better understanding cannabis use in Canada.

The National Cannabis Survey is part of a larger initiative underway at Statistics Canada to track the impact of the legalization of non-medical cannabis, a change that may come into effect by mid-year.

Each quarter, a sample of 12,000 households will receive an invitation to complete the 21-question online survey. In addition to frequency of use, amount and types of product consumed, and prices paid, respondents will be asked about changes in their behaviour or consumption patterns.

Respondent information will be kept strictly confidential. Data are collected under the authority of the Statistics Act.

Survey results will be released five to six weeks after the end of each collection period. Results will be used in conjunction with other data sources to ensure that Canadians are well-positioned to understand the economic, health and social impacts of legalization.

The National Cannabis Survey differs from Statistics Canada’s recently-launched crowd-sourcing platform, which collects information online on previous cannabis transactions.

AWARDS

Libro is investing $62,000 to support local students in southwestern Ontario!

Libro’s Student Award Program supports youth who demonstrate outstanding commitment to their community while balancing academic success. At Libro, we know by supporting these young leaders, everyone wins. Libro will grant 31 $2,000 scholarships, one for each of our 31 branches, to youth aged 17 to 25.

Application period: February 28 - April 11

Bob Prince (right) delivers an uppercut to program trainer Andre Courtemanche at one of the stations the local boxing veteran has set up at Seacliff Manor. The weekly boxing program has been designed for Parkinsons patients from across Essex County and runs from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. each Thursday morning.

Doug Bondy (left) and Ivor Johnstone deliver punches to a new piece of equipment as part of a weekly boxing therapy program for Parkinsons patients at Seacliff Manor Thursday, Feb. 15. The one-hour sessions are led by local boxer Andre Courtemanche and run from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Thursdays and are open to Parkinsons patients from across Essex County.

RIB’S RAMBLINGS

Mark Ribble

The rain in Spain falls mainly in the plain

In Essex County, it seems to be falling mainly everywhere.

After weeks of extremely cold weather and lots of snow, it appears we’ve turned the corner toward spring.

As I type this, I hope I’m not jinxing it.

With the rain that fell over the course of Family Day and more due in the forecast this week, we’re sufficiently saturated.

All that salt that adhered to my car over the last few weeks has been washed away, which is a good thing. It’ll only be a matter of time before those pesky spiders make a home in my side mirrors again.

This rainy milder weather has an effect on us in two ways. It’s drab and dark and gloomy, so with it, goes our mood. On the other hand, it’s a sign that maybe winter is coming to an end, which can be nothing but uplifting to most of us.

Sure there are those out there who love the snow. I used to be one of them when I was younger. Now, not so much.

You’d think living in an apartment would render me indifferent, but I really have grown to hate the white stuff.

Too many years of trudging through it to make sure Mrs. Smith in Windsor got her paper every morning. Too many years of shoveling knee deep in the stuff to keep my driveway clear. Too many trips on Highway 3 during crappy weather.

As a child, we reveled in the snow, making snow forts, snowmen and tobogganing down the local hills.

Let’s face it. Kids don’t do a lot of those things anymore.

Snow on Christmas Eve is nice, but then it should melt on Boxing Day and warm up to save us the aggravation of having to shovel.

I honestly can’t say that I like rain either.

For so many years, in the summertime, rain was my enemy. As an avid ball player, I’d watch the forecast intently, hoping those clouds would pass right over.

Last September, we had a night in our lobball playoffs where it was raining buckets in Leamington when I left. I hadn’t received a text from our fearless league leader Caleb Beaupre, so off I went.

The whole while I was driving to Wheatley for the game, I watched the

storm clouds swirling and heading east, and wondered why good old ‘Beaup’ hadn’t called me or sent a text.

When I got to Wheatley, black sky surrounded the village, but the portion over the arena was a clear circle of brightness. It was lightly raining but never did produce a downpour capable of cancelling our night of baseball. Everyone was wondering if Beaup had lost his marbles.

We played, we lost, we went to the Car Barn for beverages and pizza.

Rinse and repeat the next week.

I don’t get as obsessed with the rainy weather during ball season anymore. When I coached travel ball in Leamington, I dreaded the rain because it meant I had to call 15 kids, the umpires and the opposing team and cancel the game. Often, I was at the mercy of the Leamington Board of Works, who had the final say on whether the diamonds could be used. Now, I just roll with the punches and gather my spikes and glove and head out the door, leaving that decision up to the people in charge. I’m an old man now, and if we have a Thursday free of baseball, it allows my creaky bones to rest at least.

Naturally, just as this past rainy weekend began, I got a text.

As I checked my phone, I realized it was from Beaup. He was looking to get organized for this year’s lobball season in Wheatley.

It looks like I’m not the only one looking forward to spring.

Last load by horse and wagon

On September 4, 1955 the last load of tomatoes drawn by horse and wagon were delivered to Heinz. This old photo was brought in by Ninna Preston, daughter-inlaw of William and Mabel Preston who farmed on the Third Concession. Ninna married their son, the late Herbert Preston (2013). Thanks for this unique look back at Leamington’s history.

emergency occurrences around the Leamington area. The generator is valued at about $1,200. SPARC is now raising funds to purchase a communications trailer. (Submitted photos)

Radio club receives donation

By Bryan Jessop

Thanks to the generosity of one of its members, the Sun Parlour Amateur Radio Club will be able to ‘generate’ more functionality for the services it provides to the Leamington area.

Brian O’Brien — one of about 35 members of SPARC — presented a donation of a new Honda inverter generator during one of the club’s most recent meetings. The gaspowered generator, which runs quieter than most, will prove useful for community events that the organization has volunteered its services for throughout the calendar year.

“It was a very generous thing for him to do,” said SPARC president Mike Ciacelli. “It’s something we’ll be able to use at the (Leamington) Fairgrounds, where in the past we’d op-

erate using someone’s trailer.”

Busy weekend for train enthusiasts

The Essex County Train Club began in mid 2013 when a group of local train enthusiasts agreed that a county train club was needed. Five years later, the group is one of the largest in Ontario with approximately 25 members.

The public is welcome to visit one of Southwestern Ontario’s largest operating HO scale model railway layouts, which occupies a space approximately 40 feet by 60 feet! The club is opening its doors at 197 Landsdown Avenue in Kingsville (co-located with Action Hobbies) Kingsville for an Open House on Saturday and Sunday, February 24 and 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This is a chance to come and see the trains in motion. This is a free event, open to the public.

Consistent with the concept that led to the development of “FreeMo” standards, members are free to model the era and location of their choice within the confines of their modules. As can be expected from such a diverse group of individuals ranging in age from their late teens to others in their ’80s, the era’s modeled range from the days of steam up to and including modern high efficiency diesels. Locations represented include the mountains of British Columbia, the large yard at North Platte, Nebraska, the megalopolis at Aldershot, Ontario, the interchange point at Pelton, Ontario, and the hamlet of Fletcher, Ontario.

The layout was designed as a double tracked main line on 2-foot by 6-foot “FreeMo” modules. Each club member has two modules, which provides sufficient “real estate” to allow for individual creativity while maintaining set standards at interfaces where two members modules abut. Corner modules are also member owned and maintain a minimum radius of 30. Mainline curves are all super elevated.

The club meeting night is each Wednesday from 7 p.m. until the store closes. The public is welcome at that time as well. Members hail from Leamington, Chatham-Kent and other neighbouring communities.

Essex Train Show

Heritage Essex presents the 23rd Annual Essex Train Show featuring the model trains at Essex Public School on February 24-25.

After a discussion on the cost of a new generator with Ciacelli, O’Brien set out and purchased one for the club. The device — valued at about $1,200 — will be used for planned annual events such as the field day exercise on the last Saturday of June. The gathering is conducted each year to ensure that the club can provide a communications role in the event of a disaster such as the tornado that tore through Leamington in 2010. The potential disaster functions of SPARC exist in conjunction with the Municipality of Leamington’s Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) that have been written into its emergency preparation plans.

In the past, field day exercises took place through the use of emergency power sources

like solar energy and automotive batteries. The gatherings test the organization’s communicative abilities when destructive weather events such as recent hurricanes in Texas and Florida have disabled regular radio and even cell phone services.

Ciacelli, who has been an avid HAM radio operator for the past 28 years, noted that non-emergency SPARC functions can also make use of a generator’s energy. Recently, an aging generator had been used for events including Leamington’s MS Walk-a-thon, the annual Leamington Triathlon, the Leamington Fair and Santa Claus Parade.

While many of SPARC’s members hail from Leamington, others come from across Windsor-Essex County and ChathamKent. Founded in 1969, the group will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year.

Southwestern Ontario’s largest model train show highlights the model train hobby, while paying homage to the rich railroading history in Essex Centre.

The show attracts everyone from families to model train enthusiasts and hobbyists. Enjoy displays and vendor tables featuring model and toy trains, engines, parts and accessories. Interactive exhibits will be set up for youths to enjoy.

The show runs Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 a.m. -3:30 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and teens, $2 for children, and under 3 years old are free. Proceeds will benefit Heritage Essex Inc., which operates The Essex Railway Station.

For more information contact the Essex Railway Station at 519-776-9800 or heritageessex@bellnet.ca

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Sun Parlour Amatuer Radio Club member Brian O’Brien poses alongside the Honda inverter generator he purchased and donated to the club for use in future events and any

fun page

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Keep your eyes on the prize, Aries. Hard work is the key to success, and your hard work will be rewarded in time. This may be a week of transition, so be ready to jump if necessary.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

There is strength in numbers if you align yourself with the right team, Taurus. Collaboration is the name of the game this week. Jockey for your position, but share the work.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, if you are approaching an emotional overload, you will need to schedule time to decompress. Find an activity that relaxes you and delve into that to clear your head.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, you are the eternal optimist this week. As a result, you may not be able to accurately assess all situations. Ask a friend for advice before making any big decisions.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, even if you have been relatively good at managing money, you may need to tighten the pursestrings for the next few weeks. Financial discipline now will pay dividends later.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Contradictions should not surprise you this week, Virgo. Focus on fixing as much as you can while you have an opportunity to do so. It’s a big job.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, you make friends easily, and this week your social circle figures to expand even further. Embrace this opportunity and enjoy beginning a new relationship.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, some of your most innovative ideas may be met with lukewarm responses. Do not let this derail your plans. You just need to be a little more persuasive.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

You are very good at giving others credit, Sagittarius. But this week people may be singing your praises. It’s fine to be modest about it, but don’t downplay your contributions.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, do not fear if you seem to be falling out of sync with a close friend. There will be ample opportunities to rekindle the relationship. Right now you may need a breather.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, a romantic relationship can be taken to a new level when buried desires come to the surface. Give yourself plenty of time to pursue these feelings.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, this is a week when you want to double-check everything that you do. Be sure to dot every “I” and cross every “T.” Details matter.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

FEBRUARY 18

Matt Dillon, Actor (54) FEBRUARY 19

Millie Bobby Brown, Actress (14) FEBRUARY 20

Cindy Crawford, Model (52)

FEBRUARY 21

Ashley Greene, Actress (31) FEBRUARY 22

Lea Salonga, Actress (47) FEBRUARY 23

Francesca Simon, Author (63)

FEBRUARY 24

Floyd Mayweather, Boxer (41)

Local singer returns to roots

By Bryan Jessop

Whether in Los Angeles or Leamington, successful lead

vocalist

Mary Newland is eager for the chance to perform.

Newland, who was born and raised in Leamington, is fronting The Blue Bayou Band, a tribute group to 1970s country-rock and pop-rock icon Linda Ronstadt. The eight-member group is made up largely of local musicians who will perform at The Olde Walkerville Theatre at 1564 Wyandotte St. East in Windsor Saturday, March 16. Newland’s partner Richard Baker — who is also the band’s musical director and keyboard player — was enthusiastic about the idea of the tribute group, which is now steadily booking gigs across Southwestern Ontario.

“It’s actually an idea I had some time ago. We just decided that the timing was right,” said Newland.

Newland and Baker were pleasantly surprised by how quickly they were able to form The Blue Bayou Band in the spring of last year, explaining that once auditions were completed, the process took about one weekend.

“It didn’t take long,” said Baker, who was a member of the rock band Santana for five years while living in Los Angeles. “We got the word out through mutual friends and we were pleased with the response and quality of the musicians who replied. They’re really busy as performers, which is quite remarkable for a small area. It shows what a rich artistic culture there is here.”

The group is currently made up of Newland, Baker, Merrill Gardiner Mills on bass and backing vocals, Ken Cullen on keyboards and backing vocals, Nancy J. Mills on percussion and backing vocals, John Knapp on drums, and most recently, Bob Soulliere and Ed Everaert on guitars and other stringed instruments. Soulliere operated the South Windsor School of Music while Everaert owns Stonehedge Productions recording studio in Kingsville.

The Blue Bayou Band made its first set of public performances at Leamington’s Bank Theatre in May of last year, selling out two consecutive evenings. With the upcoming show in Windsor, the group has become part of The Olde Walkerville Theatre’s 100th anniversary. The 600 seat establishment was recently restored by owners Mary and Andy Lambros and has general admission, box seats and VIP booth tickets available.

General admission seats are selling at $30 each, box seats at $35 apiece and elevated VIP booths — which seat six guests each and include a table — at $250 each. Shortly after Blue Bayou Band tickets for the show at the OWT began selling, the availability of booths shrunk to less than half a dozen. Tickets can be bought online at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3322126, by calling the theatre at 5192553-2929 or at the door on the day of the concert.

“This will be a lot of fun,” Baker said of the Walkerville event. “We’re excited about playing in Walkerville — it’s a great portion of Windsor.”

A week later, the band will perform at The Blyth Memorial Community Hall in Blyth, Ont., in Port Stanley on April 27 and 28 and at the Aeolian Theatre in London, Ont. July 6 and 7.

“It’s picking up pretty quickly,” said Newland. “We’re starting to get busy and we’re very excited about that.”

While growing up in Leamington, Newland performed at numerous small venues and coffee houses before moving to Los Angeles in 1972. There, her career as a singer steadily picked up and has since included session work for radio, television and films such as Be Cool starring Uma Thurman, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Travolta as well as Double Down with Jason Priestly and Groom Lake with William Shatner. She has also provided backing vocals for The

Beach Boys, Charo, Saga and Beth Hart.

Baker, originally from Montreal, moved to Los Angeles in 1970 to pursue a love of music that began with lessons inspired by his father at the age of three. In addition to being a member of Santana, he has also performed alongside Gino Vannelli, Leo Sayer and Gary Wright. Baker has composed for more than 30 theatrical films and television movies and commercials.

Baker and Newland met while living in LA and since formed the post production studio Filmcue in Burbank, California. After living in Montreal from 2006 to 2014, they moved back to Mary’s hometown of Leamington. The duo also has a catalog of original music, but as both are longtime fans of Ronstadt, decided that a tribute band would be a fitting direction to take their careers.

“I’ve been a huge fan of hers for so many years as a vocalist,” explained Newland, who has also been inspired by the likes of Joni Mitchell, Barbara Streisand, James Taylor, Carole King and The Eagles. “She’s been a really big influence for me.”

Mary

of a previous live performance.

is the main

of The

was

tribute group that will be performing at the Olde Walkerville Theatre in Windsor Saturday, March 16, starting at 8 p.m. Tickets are available by calling 519-253-2929, visiting the website www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3322126 or at the door on the day of the event. (Submitted photo)

Newland and Richard Baker pose for a photo on the day

Newland, who

raised in Leamington,

vocalist

Blue Bayou Band, a Linda Ronstadt

LEAMINGTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

MEETS Wednesday, February 21, 7:30 p.m., at Leamington United Church, 9 John St. Speaker: Jan Dugdale. Topic: Ponds. All are welcome to an evening of horticultural fellowship. Info: Peter Scorrar 519-326-8529.

SEACLIFF CINEMA NIGHT on Thursday, February 22 at 6:30 p.m. at Seacliff Manor, 30 Seacliff Dr. E., Leamington. The flick is “Jackie” with Natalie Portman portraying the life of Jacqueline Kennedy during the days after JFK’s assassination. Everyone welcome.

PASTA FUNDRAISING DINNER - Saturday, February 24 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church. 60 Erie St. N. Leamington. In support of St. John’s ministry. Pasta, salad, roll, dessert. Adults $10, children (5-10) $5, children under 5 free. Take-out available. For more information please call the church 519-326-3111.

ROAST BEEF DINNER Sunday, February 25, 5:00 p.m. Knox Presbyterian Church - $17. Limited tickets. Call 519-326-4541 to reserve.

TRIVIA NIGHT 19 is Wednesday, February 28 at 7:00 p.m. at the Leamington Portuguese Club, 217 Talbot St. W. Teams of 4 get together to answer trivia questions, competing for cash prizes, door prizes and bragging rights! Register online at leamingtonminorbaseball.com or at Fletcher’s Cleaners in Leamington. More info: Jeff 519-566-4558.

SECC CHILIFEST - Wednesday, February 28 from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Leamington Portuguese Club, 217 Talbot St. W. Enjoy over 25 delicious chilis, veggies, dessert, beverage - $8 advance or $10 at door. Tickets at Century 21 office, 150 Talbot St. E. or SECC offices. Chilifest benefits SECC Transportation Services. For more information or to volunteer time or prizes, contact chairperson John at c21johnwoelk@hotmail.com

To place your event in the Community Calendar

24 SEACLIFF DR. E #100, LEAMINGTON • 519-326-9339

ERIE ST. S., WHEATLEY • 519-825-4662

Community CALENDAR

THE WHEATLEY HERITAGE SOCIETY WILL

HOLD A GENERAL MEETING on Thursday, March 1 at 2:30 p.m. in the Heritage Room located on the second floor of the Wheatley Friendship Club on Erie Street North in Wheatley. New members are always welcome .

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER SERVICE - Friday, March 2 at 1:00 p.m., St. Michael’s Church, 29 Elliott St., Leamington. Introducing the Republic of Suriname. All are welcome.

LEAMINGTON BLOOD DONOR CLINIC at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, Wednesday, March 7, 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. New donors & walk-ins welcome! To book an appointment or for additional information, please contact us at 1 888 2 DONATE (1888-236-6283) / www.blood.ca / GiveBlood App.

INTERNATIONAL

local business directory

IRISH STEW SUPPER, hosted by Order of the Eastern Star, on Friday, March 2 at 6:00 p.m. at the Masonic Temple, 3 John St., Leamington. Advance tickets $12 by calling 519-326-8709 or 519-839-4117.

MAPLEFEST SPRING OPEN HOUSE on Sunday, March 4 from 1:00 - -4:00 p.m. at Seacliff Manor, 30 Seacliff Dr. E., Leamington. Maple inspired treats, make your own maple taffy, entertainment by Bev Bechard. Everyone welcome.

LEAMINGTON BLOOD DONOR CLINIC at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, Wednesday, March 7, 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. New donors & walk-ins welcome! To book an appointment or for additional information, please contact us at 1 888 2 DONATE (1888-236-6283) / www.blood.ca / GiveBlood App.

There are 210 finalists across 42 categories. The nominations drew a tremendous response – Windsor Essex businesses received almost 7,000 nominations.

The public is invited to cast their votes at www.bestofwindsores-

Voting started on February 19 and will run through March 11, 2018 at 11:59 p.m. Voters will be entered to win a Best of Windsor Essex Experience worth over $500.

Voting categories include: Arts & Entertainment, Attractions &

Frances Burchmore

Frances Burchmore (Fishlock), 97 years. Born December 2, 1920 in Montreal, Quebec, and passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 10, 2018 with her family by her side at Royal Oak Long Term Care Residence in Kingsville, Ontario.

Beloved wife of the late Homer Burchmore (2001), former General Manager of Smith’s of Windsor. Loving mother of Brian and wife

Marilynn Prittie, Toronto; Cindy Nedin and husband Michael, Amherstburg; Bruce Burchmore and wife

Mary Wheelton, Sarnia; Elizabeth Chapman and husband Glen, Calgary. Dearest Grandma of Sarah, Emily, Norah, Nicholas, Alexander, Wesley, Paul, Todd and Jacqueline. Adoring GreatGrandma of Henry, Nathaniel, Charlotte, Jack, Lauren, Andrew and Lukas. Predeceased by brothers Fred, Jack, Leonard and sister Dolly Highfield. Proud Auntie to several nieces and nephews.

Frances was a volunteer driver for the cancer clinic, assisted at blood donor clinics and helped counsel at a pregnancy clinic. She was most generous, sewing quilts for the elderly and knitting socks for our local homeless. Frances’ family thanks the staff of Royal Oak Long Term Care for the loving and compassionate care she received. Frances’ radiant smile brightened everyone’s day.

In following Frances’ wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a private burial in the Spring.

Memorial donations made to the charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to Reid Funeral Home and Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519326-2631).

Family and friends may share their memories online at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Josip Hadas

Josip Hadas was just five days shy of his 84th birthday when he passed away peacefully at Franklin Gardens on Wednesday, February 14, 2018.

Beloved husband of 28 years to Ivanka. Loving stepfather to Leonora. Josip will be missed by many friends in Pickering and Mississauga.

The family would like to thank the staff at Franklin Gardens for their care and support.

Cremation has taken place. Inurnment will be held on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Erie Memorial Gardens, Leamington.

Family and friends may share their memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Cheryl Ribble

Cheryl Ribble, 65 years, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 14, 2018 at WRH Metropolitan Campus.

Beloved daughter of the late Alice and the late Russell Ribble. Loving sister of Starre Miller and husband Kevin, and Larry Ribble and wife Pam. Dearest aunt of Crystal Miller and husband Matthew Glanfield, Cori McLean and husband

Dennis and their children Isabella, Kinsleigh and Addalyn, Tracey and her daughter Samantha, Ryan Ribble and wife Nettie and their children Hannah and Nathan. Cheryl will be missed by her cousins Doug and Jean Lindsay, and by her best friend Tammy Hunter-Bellemore.

Visiting is at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Thursday, February 22, 2018 from 10 a.m. until time of the Memorial Service to celebrate Cheryl’s life at 11 a.m. Rev. John van Omme officiating. Interment Erie Memorial Gardens, Leamington.

Memorial donations, made by cheque, to the Ronald McDonald House - Windsor (cheques made payable to Ronald McDonald Southwestern Ontario Charities) would be appreciated.

Family and friends may share their memories or make an online condolence at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Lois Stahl (nee Manchester), 92 years, passed away peacefully into the presence of her Saviour on Thursday, February 8, 2018.

Betty Fisher

August 15, 1927 - February 11, 2018

It is with sadness we announce the passing of Betty Jane Fisher (Pulver).

Wife of the late Fred Fisher, stepmother of the late Carol Fisher. Grandmother to Shawn Fisher and wife Tanya. Special friends of Dave and debi Malley. Also survived by relatives in the southern U.S.

Special thanks to the staff of Franklin Gardens, Leamington. Also extra special thanks to the staff of the Sun Parlor Home Leamington, especially South 2.

As per Betty’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted to Simple Choice Cremation Centre (519-254-2585).

Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared at www.simplechoicecremation.ca

John McMahon

John Edward McMahon has transitioned from his happy earthly life to his new heavenly home. Son of the late Theresa and John, and son-in-law to the late Dolly and Maurice Cook. Brother of the late Patricia Girard (2011) and surviving spouse Alphonse, and Mary Ellen Stein (late John A., 2016), and families. Carolyn, Launa, Sarri and Sonia mourn the passing of their dedicated and fun-loving husband and father due to the rapid progression of cancer. John, born on March 11, 1944 in Detroit, Michigan, peacefully passed at home on Friday February 16, 2018 with his wife and three daughters, and his genuinely caring sister-in-law Sandy by his side. Chris Deline, Louis Comartin and Mark Stonefish, as well as Jeff Thibert, hold him in their hearts. John’s precious and admired grandchildren Dellsie, Brennan, Rowyn, Nolan and Gavin will fondly remember, smile and laugh, thinking of all the special times with Pépé.

As he gave in his life, John requested that his body be donated to the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Western Ontario, with the hope of benefitting others.

Visitation will take place at the Tilbury KC, 20 Dupuis Street in Tilbury on Thursday, February 22, 2018 from 3:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Beloved wife of the late Rev. Philip (1993). Loving mother of Philip G. (Bev), Sharon Burge (Dr. Gary) and Mark. Much loved Nanny to Lisa Willms (Steve), Todd Stahl (Sherry), Jordan Burge (Jenna) and Megan Klassen (Ernie). Lois is survived by her sisters Jean, Joan and Judy. She was the cherished Great-Gramma to Brittany (Sheldon), Morgan, Marissa (Derek), Brandon, Shelby, Brandon, Charli and Rosie. Remembered also by many nieces and nephews.

The family honours her for her spiritual leadership. They were also blessed by her wonderful cooking.

According to Lois’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held later on Pelee Island, where Phil and Lois enjoyed living for many years.

If desired, donations to Bethel Christian Church, Cottam, would be appreciated.

“To the Christian it’s not good-bye, but see you later!”

Love you, Mom!

Arrangements entrusted the C. Stuart Sykes Funeral Home, Kingsville.

Condolences may be left at www.sykesfuneralhome.ca

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Patrick’s Church near Merlin, where he was a dedicated member, on Friday February 23, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. We will also plan a casual memorial bonfire, and send some written messages upward, in warmer weather.

John has asked that donations be made to help others, in place of flowers or memorial tributes. In the spirit of his giving and caring nature, we are honoured and privileged to follow that request. Some ideas include: donating blood, registering as an organ donor, donating to food banks, or your own special charities of which John’s favourites were the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, The Terry Fox Foundation, Canadian Mental Health Association Lambton-Kent or Windsor-Essex Branch, and the Canadian Spinal Research Organization.

To celebrate John’s life, we hope you’ll happily choose to cherish family, friends, as well as attend their games and events, eat M&M’s or anything chocolate, drink a glass of root beer and toast “Here’s to you John!”, visit the shut-in people in your area, cut the grass, and play euchre.

For everyone who touched John’s life, and for everyone whose life was positively impacted by John, we are forever grateful.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Life Transitions Burial and Cremation Service Inc., Chatham, Ontario. If you so choose, you may share a memory at www.lifetransitions.ca

Lois Stahl

IN MEMORIAM

When we are in need of comfort, We walk down memory lane. There we see you smiling, We talk with you again. And as we wander slowly back, We seem to hear you say, Don't grieve. Don't cry, my family. We'll meet again some day.

Always loved, and sadly missed by your family every day.

September 22, 1962 - February 16, 2010

Sadly missed along life’s way

Quietly remembered every day.

No longer in our life to share

But in our hearts he’s always there.

Lovingly remembered by Mom, Dad & Family

Windsor-built 1951 Meteor convertible: Where is it today?

Sixty-seven years ago, a 1951 Meteor convertible rolled off the Ford assembly line in Windsor. Bob Downey of Toronto customized it around 1957 in black and white with 1950 Ford Crestliner side trim and continental kit.

THE OLD CAR DETECTIVE

Bill Sherk

LTVCA budget receives approval

The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on February 15 at the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.

Linda McKinlay was elected as Chair and Hilda MacDonald as Vice-chair for 2018. McKinlay is a Municipal Councillor for the Town of Lakeshore and MacDonald is Deputy-Mayor of the Municipality of Leamington.

The 2018 budget of $3,179,437 received approval at the AGM. The budget represents an increase of $82,409 or 2.66% in overall spending in comparison to the 2017 approved budget of $3,097,028. The corresponding increase in the municipal levy is $38,316 or 2.44%. The 10 member municipalities of the LTVCA include Chatham-Kent, Leamington, Lakeshore, Dutton Dunwich, West Elgin, London, Middlesex Centre, Southwest Middlesex, Southwold and Strathroy-Caradoc.

Chatham-Kent appoints three representatives to the

Jimmy Brebner then bought it, removed the continental kit, repainted the car purple and white with the Crestliner trim, and installed a custom interior and a ’56 Mercury V8 engine. Jimmy then sold the Meteor to Bob Goodwin, who displayed at the first Fort York Armoury Autorama in Toronto in 1959 and the first Speed Sport Show in Toronto in January of 1960.

Claude Johnson lives today in Paris, Ontario. He was 20 years old in 1960 when he was pumping gas at a service station in Toronto and driving a 1953 Meteor Cutomline 2-door sedan. Across the street was Lawrence Plaza, and one night the 1951 Meteor convertible originally customized by Bob Downey rolled into the parking lot. Claude does not remember the name of the man who owned it at that time.

The man in the convertible said to Claude: “I would like to have your car.” And Claude replied: “I would like to have your convertible!”

They switched ownerships right there and each drove away in the other’s car.

Claude soon moved to Guelph, and brought the convertible with him. The car needed engine work, more than he was able to pay for, and so the mechanic gave him a ’54 Austin in exchange for the Meteor and the work done on it. That was around 1961 and that’s the last time Claude saw his Meteor convertible.

Andy Janosik of Guelph bought the car around 1961 but does not recall who he bought it from. He owned it for two years and sold it around 1963 to a body man named Wes Pollock, who has passed away. Andy still keeps in touch with members of the Roamers Car Club in Guelph. Some of them might remember what happened to the Meteor after Andy sold it.

If it turns up, you’ll read all about it right here, where we bring old cars back to life.

And Claude Johnson would love to see it again!

I’m always looking for more stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca

LTVCA Board while the remaining nine municipalities appoint one representative each for up to a three-year term.

The 2017 Annual Report

emphasized the benefits of the investment in the flood control structures of the lower Thames watershed and the monitoring of watershed conditions over the past year. Forty-one flood bulletins were issued and 32 provincial water quality monitoring sites were operated. Additional highlights of the year included the LTVCA undertaking 2,019 regulatory and municipal plan review services, the

provision of $1.3M of stewardship grant assistance to 164 landowners, the planting of 134,221 trees, and the natural restoration of 117 hectares.

Recognized were the more than 700 volunteers who gave over 4,000 hours of their time and the 42 funding partners of the Conservation Authority that provided an additional $2.04M for watershed conservation. To

HELGA FRANCES JANET JANICE

MARILYN SUE CAIRN

Customized 1951 Meteor convertible in Toronto two years before Claude Johnson bought it. (Submitted photo)

Club Supports Cougar Robotics Team

Robbery in Wheatley

On Sunday, February 18, 2018 at approximately 4:45 a.m. an unknown suspect entered Mac’s Milk on Talbot Road West and demanded money and cigarettes from the cashier in a threatening manner.

The cashier complied with the suspect’s demands. The cashier was not physically injured during the incident.

The suspect fled on foot and was last seen wearing a grey hoodie, grey facemask, blue jeans, blue latex gloves and black backpack.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Bryan Vaughan at bryanv@chatham-kent.ca / 519-436-6600 extension #87164 or Constable Brad Hyatt at bradh@chatham-kent.ca / 519-436-6600 extension #288. Anonymous callers may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and may be eligible for a cash reward.

ERCA 2018 budget approved

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) confirmed its priority projects and programs to create a healthier and more sustainable environment for 2018 as it unanimously passed its annual budget on February 15. Initiating a regional Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, improving floodline mapping in response to a changing climate, creating over 100 acres of new habitat including an innovative wetland project, and continuing to tackle phosphorus loadings in Lake Erie are just a few of the projects it has planned for the coming year.

“A robust suite of high priority projects and programs to protect and restore the natural environment of the region will be undertaken,” said Richard Wyma, ERCA’s general manager.

WFCU issues call for proposals

Charitable and non-profit groups invited to submit In keeping with its commitment to support local communities, WFCU Credit Union has issued a ‘Call For Proposals’ to local charitable and non-profit organizations. Organizations are invited to submit proposals for review through WFCU’s Community Donations Fund (CDF). This fund annually disburses a total of $20,000 to various organizations in Windsor and Essex County. The CDF is one of many of the WFCU Credit Union Community Investment initiatives – donating over $5 million in the last five years.

The WFCU Credit Union Community Donations Fund is designed to provide funding assistance to existing or new non-profit and charitable programs and projects. As in the past, proposals will be divided into four specific categories: Health and Wellness, Quality of Life, Cultural/Community and Support/ Information.

Interested organizations can visit wfcu.ca and click on “Call for ProposalsWFCU Credit Union Community Donations Fund” for proposal details.

“These include programs to increase habitat and forest cover, maintain and expand conservation areas and trails, aid our member municipalities in protecting people and infrastructure from the dangers of flooding and erosion particularly in the era of a changing climate, and to provide meaningful education and engagement opportunities for our residents.”

The 2018 Budget totals $9,271,600, which includes a proposed levy contribution of $3,148,752. This represents an increase of $101,019, or $0.09 per household. Of that, $51,000 is allocated for operations and $50,000 for future asset replacement.

This levy funds less than 30% of its operations, placing ERCA in the bottom five of all Conservation Authorities, and well below the provincial average (approx. 45%).

“ERCA is unlike any other Agency, Board or Commission in that it generates tremendous revenue for the region,” Wyma adds. “Between 2007 and 2017, ERCA received $26.5-million in total levy contributions and generated $35-million in new outside funding to the region in support of regional environmental programs and projects. This is in addition to the significant value of ERCA’s programs and services.”

Early Years Kingdom Explores With Sphero

The Early Years Kingdom at Queen Elizabeth Public School was introduced to a new “friend” in January. This is no ordinary friend – it’s a digital sphere that they control with the use of an iPad. This sphere’s name is Sphero. The students have been given the chance to explore with Sphero and drive it around a tiled pathway, through a made-up city, and have even used Sphero to create a very unique painting. All of the students continue to explore what Sphero can do and have enjoyed the opportunity to have this new “friend” in the kingdom. (Submitted photo)

Organizations are asked to submit seven (7) copies of their proposal and supporting documentation to: WFCU Credit Union, 3000 Marentette Ave., Windsor ON, N8X 4G2, Attention: Beth Ann Prince, Manager, Community Investment and Market Innovation. Deadline for submissions is Friday March 9, 2018.

390 Talbot St. N. Essex

519-776-6447

chrisbabkirk@kenknappford.com

Southpoint Stars weekend update

The Intermediate Highbury Canco team played Lakeshore White on the weekend. Southpoint got off to a good start when Cassie Bluhm took a shot from just inside the faceoff circle that found its way past the Lakeshore goalie. Assists on the goal went to Chase Cabral and Raine Schiefer. Still in the first, Jillian Iles maneuvered around in front of the Lakeshore net and backhanded a shot in. Meghan Mercer and Jada Schiefer assisted on the goal.

Lakeshore came back in the second with two goals of their own. In the third things got chippy and both teams were unable to take advantage of the odd man advantage. The score ended in a 2-2 tie. Goalie Erica Taylor had to be sharp on a few scrambles in front of her Southpoint net and made a big glove save in the third to preserve the tie.

The Peewee Bailey Machining Inc. Stars battled the Lakeshore Lightning in Essex/Kent playoff action. This was a very evenly matched, hard fought battle that saw both teams exchange multiple goals throughout, but in the end the Lightning edged out the Bailey Stars by a single tally. The final score was 3-2. Alexa Derikx and Mila Pereira provided the offence scoring a goal a piece for the Bailey Stars. Charlie Liebrock and Meaghan Simpson scored the everimportant assists in this game.

The Switzer Carty Bantam Stars welcomed the South County Amherstburg Predators to the Wheatley Arena on Sunday evening. This was an exciting battle that saw both teams exchange goals; however, the Predators edged out the Lady Stars in the end by a final score of 3-1. Stephanie Wiebe scored a beautiful unassisted goal to get the Stars on the board in this contest.

The Leamington Kinsmen Intermediate Stars tangled with the Windsor Wildcats in Essex/Kent playoff action on Sunday evening in Wheatley. The Kinsmen Stars hit the ice with extreme confidence as they scored goals in all three periods en route to a dominant 4-1 win. Abby Gualtieri powered the Stars offence, scoring two goals and adding two assists. Taylor Babkirk chipped in on the offence, scoring a goal and adding two assists. Amber Tazzman rounded out the Stars’ attack as she drilled a laser of a shot off the inside post and in. Scoring the other assists were Amber Tazzman (2) and Jenn Fehr. Alyee Church played outstanding in net for the Stars as she made several big saves throughout this exciting contest and held the Wildcats to just a single goal.

The Kinsmen Intermediate Stars travelled to Windsor on Saturday afternoon to play the LaSalle Sabre Cats. Both teams exchanged goals in each period in this hard-fought and evenly matched battle. The Sabre Cats scored the gamewinning goal as the final second ticked off the clock. The Kinsmen Stars lost by a score of 4-3. Kelsey Babkirk powered the Stars’ offence as she scored two goals, while Kayla Collison chipped in scoring the other Stars’ goal. Abby Gualtieri scored the only assist for the Kinsmen Stars.

Peewee Blue at Flyers

The Southpoint Peewee Blue local league team was honoured prior to a Thursday, Feb. 15 Leamington Flyers game at Highbury Canco Arena as champions of the recent annual Hockey For Hospice Tournament. The team emerged as winners of its division in the December 27-29 tournament with an undefeated record of four wins, zero losses and one tie. Through those five games, the team outscored the opposition 24-3 while raising $1,300 for local hospice. The games were played in LaSalle and Windsor. The team’s co-MVPs were goalie Nicolas Dubroy with three shutouts and defenseman Ethan Rodrigues with six goals and five assists. Joining the Peewee Blues on the ice was coach Kyle Gabriel. The team is also coached by Ed Rodrigues and Ryan Ribble.

SYSTEM+

JESSOP’S JOURNAL

Bryan Jessop

Win(nipeg) some, lose some

Over and over again, most of us have had snippets of wisdom bestowed upon us such as ‘don’t count your chickens before they’ve hatched’.

For the most part, it’s good advice. Making assumptions in any facet of life can easily backfire and/or make you look like a complete fool. You can think that because you’ve binge studied for that final exam you’ll ace it, only to sit down at the desk, glance at the first page and then experience an utter brain cramp.

Back in 1991, a few friends and I were eagerly awaiting the release of the new Metallica album, their fifth studio effort and first since the brilliant works of And Justice For All we heard for the first time three years earlier. We just KNEW it was going to be heavier, faster and better than ever. As it turned out, a LOT of people thought very highly of “The Black Album,” but everyone in my little circle of friends was sourly disappointed.

To us, it was mere pop rock — a complete and total sellout that paled in comparison to the likes of Master Of Puppets, Ride The Lightning and Kill ‘Em All. The composers of Creeping Death, Sanitarium, The Frayed Ends Of Sanity and Whiplash were a thrash metal band no more. Nowadays, I refer to them as “America’s Nickelback.”

As I mentioned a couple weeks earlier, the ‘90s were full of bitter disappointments. Sometimes, however, you would be well advised to prepare for something that could very well never happen. Moments before I started writing this particular column, I stumbled across a post on one of my favourite website forums that mentioned 2018 playoff ticket prices for the Winnipeg Jets. Now in True North Sports and Entertainment’s defense, the Jets are playing well and are most certainly POISED to make a post-season appearance. As of Friday, Feb. 16, they ranked second in the Western Conference’s Central Division — two points behind first-place Nashville and three points ahead of third-place St. Louis.

Here’s the thing though — as of that day, the Jets still had 25 regular season games to go. More often than not, finishing with 95 points will at least grant your team a wildcard spot. If that proves to be the case again next year (this column is all about the “ifs”), the Jets will need to collect 20 points in those 25 games. Sounds easy enough, right? Heck, even the Habs could pull off 10 wins in 25 games.

But alas, the NHL’s Canadian teams are notorious chokers when push comes to shove, so I’d personally advise Manitoba’s most avid fans to keep their post season wallets in their pockets for the time being. Apparently, the way it works for season ticket holders is that they can pay for playoff ticket seats in advance (by series or by game) and the money spent on games that don’t come to fruition can go toward next season’s tickets.

Regardless, the Jets have it all figured out. Those privileged season ticket holders can buy 16 home ice playoff tickets for seats in the centre ice, lower bowl section for the bargain price of $5,000. That sounds outrageous, and for most of us, it is. On the other hand, when you crunch the numbers, $312.50 (Cdn.) per game for the good seats is a real bargain by Canadian standards. For those same 16 games (yeah, I know, the chance of the Jets winning the President’s Trophy and then playing four seven-game playoff rounds are astronomically low), you can pay a total of $1,506.60 for the nosebleed seats behind one of the nets. That’s just under $95 per ticket.

Can someone even PARK within 10 blocks of Toronto’s ACC for that kind of money in

Charity volleyball tournament this weekend

Proceeds will benefit Leamington Food Bank and SECC

The 7th annual Charity Mixed Volleyball Tournament is this Saturday, February 24. There will be three co-ed divisions: Recreational, Intermediate and Competitive, and six on six. Games will be played at Cardinal Carter Secondary School, Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex and UMEI.

Registration is $240 per team plus food or non-perishable item donation. Lunch is included. Tax receipts for partial registration fee will be issued by SECC if requested. For registration forms or more information contact: Ryan Whittle at 519-999-0205 or Ryan_Whittle@hotmail. com; Karen Repko at 519-982-0423 or Krepko@mnsi.net

Proceeds will go to The Salvation Army’s Food Bank in Leamington and South Essex Community Council (SECC).

Come out and enjoy a fun-filled day of volleyball and support two great causes at the same time!

mid April?

Again, I’ll give TNSE some credit. I’m sure it’s not the only ownership group that’s declared playoff ticket prices at this point. For the fans of the best 16 teams, playoffs begin less than a month-and-a-half from now. This year, Habs fans will not have to worry about setting aside a playoff budget, so the joke’s on YOU, fans of half decent teams! Ha!

Right now, I suppose there are more eyes on the Winter Olympics than there are on the NHL’s playoff race. Canada was third in the medal haul as I wrote these words, tied with the Netherlands (or fifth if you only count gold medals, a ranking system that kind of ticks me off). As my fingers raced to comply with our press plant’s holiday deadline, the Canadian men’s hockey team was about 11 hours from facing off against the Czechs in the preliminary round. I WANTED to assume that we’d win that game, seeing as how the Czechs beat South Korea (yup, for real… South Korea) by a mere goal in their first match. That game will be a few pages back in the history books by the time you read this, but as it neared, I didn’t want to make any assumptions — especially with the now unfamiliar absence of NHL star power on the roster. I mean we all thought the U.S. men’s team would squash Slovenia like a bug, right?

Wrong.

Making assumptions about the underdog of course is the main ingredient in the recipe for upsets. Right now, 99.999 per cent of my brain is wondering who to cheer for come NHL playoff time in April since Montreal’s lineup will be booking tee times as of Sunday, Apr. 8. Still — and I hate to admit this — that 0.001 per cent of my less-than-optimistic grey matter is hoping for a miracle.

Like the Jets, my Habs had 25 games to go by the time this column was completed. Unlike the Jets, they’re going to need another 44 points or so to sneak up on the rest of the field and snag a wildcard spot in the East. Yeah, they’ll probably have to win 22 of their last 25 games to make that happen.

Montreal missing the playoffs a year after finishing first in the Atlantic? Now THAT is probably a pretty safe assumption to make. Go Jets.

WALK OFF THE EARTH OPEN TO ALL AGES

Thursday, February 22

Saturday, March 17

PAUL

JOHNNY REID REVIVAL

WITH TYLER HENRY

Friday, February 23

BUDDY GUY

Friday, April 13

AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH DAVID FOSTER HITMAN TOUR Sunday, April 15

TERRY FATOR THE VOICE OF ENTERTAINMENT IT STARTS TONIGHT Saturday, April 21

BRIAN WILSON PRESENTS PET SOUNDS: THE FINAL PERFORMANCES WITH SPECIAL GUESTS AL JARDINE & BLONDIE CHAPLIN Friday, May 4

DARCY OAKE

ILLUSIONIST & MASTER MAGICIAN OPEN TO ALL AGES

June 29

May 17 3pm & 8pm YANNI

Tickets available at the Box Office, CaesarsWindsor.com, ticketmaster.ca or charge by phone 1-888-345-5885.

County Bridge Results

Leamington Half Century Centre, Feb. 12: North/South - 1st Mike Perry and Roy Trowell, 2nd Nina Towle and Helen Preyde, 3rd Vi Major and Pauline Mikolash. East/West - 1st Henry Hildebrandt and George Hildebrandt, 2nd Mame Nicholson and Dave Derbyshire, 3rd Ken and Kay Pryke. Games are played each Monday at 12:45 p.m. Members and new members are welcome.

Kingsville Bridge Club, Feb. 14: North/South - 1st John McGregor and Roger Cote, 2nd Bill Chaplin and Chris Brennan, 3rd Derek Parry and Dave Derbyshire, 4th Ginny Pettypiece and Vi Major. Bridge is every Wednesday at the Lions Hall in Kingsville, 7 p.m.

Church Directory

ANGLICAN

St. John The Evangelist

60 Erie St. N., Leamington 519-326-3111

Sunday Worship Services

8:30 & 10:30 am

St. Mary’s Church

East West Road, Pelee Island

1st & 3rd Sundays from June to September at 10 am

Calvary Church

North Shore Road, Pelee Island

1st & 3rd Sundays from October to May at 10 am

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church

3 Fox Street, Leamington 519-326-5491

Sunday Worship 10:30 am

Heritage Baptist Church

555 Talbot St. W., Wheatley 519-300-1400 Pastor Francisco Penner

Sunday 11 am & 7 pm, Wed 7 pm

Wheatley Baptist Church

47 Talbot St. E., Wheatley 519-825-7433

Sunday Worship 10:00 am

CONGREGATIONALIST

Faith Everlasting Congregational Church 589 Hwy 77, Leamington 519-322-2994

Sunday Worship 11 am

220 Erie St. N., Leamington 519-322-1644

Saturday Services: Bible Study 9:30 am Worship 11:00 am

LUTHERAN

St. Paul’s LutheranEvangelical Church

311 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-3966

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am (Eng)

MENNONITE

Faith Mennonite Church

269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-6391

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am

Deer Run Church 1408 Deer Run Rd, Leamington

www.deerrun.church 519-326-9734

Sunday Worship Services

9:00 am (German), 10:30 am and 11:45 am (English Services)

Leamington Evangelical Mennonite Church 108 Mersea Rd 3, Leamington 519-322-9915

Sunday Worship 10:30 am

Leamington United Mennonite Church 78 Oak Street East, Leamington 519-326-2727

Sunday Worship 9:45 am

Summer Worship Services 10 am

Meadow Brook Church 219 Talbot Street East Leamington 519-326-3605

2 Sunday Worship Services 9 am and 11 am

North Leamington United Mennonite Church 625 Mersea Rd 6, Leamington 519-326-7928

Sunday Worship 10:00 am

South Point Community Church 475 Bevel Line Road, Leamington Pastor Dave Bretzlaff 519-819-1590

Sunday Service 10:30 am

Spanish Service Sunday 6 pm

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Iglesia La Buena Semilla 269 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-733-0342

Sunday Worship 6:30 pm

Leamington District Memorial Hospital 194 Talbot St. W., Leamington 519-326-2373, Chaplain’s Office ext. 4443

PENTECOSTAL

LakePoint Family Church 285 Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-322-2316

Service Sunday 9:15 am & 11:15 am

Leamington Christian Centre

98 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-322-1504

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am

English/Spanish 6:30 pm

Templo Christiano De Leamington

39 Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-325-9654

Sunday Worship Services 3 pm

Mount Zion Full TabernacleGospel

6 Mill Street, Leamington 519-252-0031

Sunday Worship 7:30 pm

United Pentecostal Church

312 Erie St. St., Leamington 519-326-7056

Sunday Worship Services 11 am

PRESBYTERIAN

Knox Presbyterian Church

58 Erie St. S., Leamington 519-326-4541

www.pccweb.ca/knoxleamnington/

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am

ROMAN CATHOLIC

St. Michael’s Church

29 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-326-2643

Saturday Mass 5:00 pm

Sunday Masses 8 am and 10 am 10:30 am Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament - Wheatley

St. Anthony’s Parish (Maronite Rite)

280 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-322-2282

Sunday Masses 9:30 & 11 am (Lebanese, English)

SALVATION ARMY

The Salvation Army Citadel

88 Setterington Street Leamington 519-326-4901

Sunday Worship 10:30 am

UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA

Leamington United Church 9 John Street, Leamington 519-326-9461

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am

Olinda-Ruthven United Church

1907 Queen Blvd., Ruthven ON 519-326-3138

Sunday Services at 9:30 am

Wheatley United Church

59 Talbot St. W., Wheatley ON 519-825-4157

Sunday Services at 10:30 am

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

Unitarian Universalist Church of Olinda 2953 Olinda Sideroad, Ruthven 519-326-4352

Sunday Service 10:30 am

Flamingo bowling scores

The following are the Flamingo Restaurant bowling leagues scores for February 5. Games Over 200: Kevin Kosempel 200, Chris Kosempel 245-203-268, Jamie Arquette 215, Willy Fittler 223, Ozzie Wolf 222, Aaron Dickau 204, Mauro Paglione 205, Dan Dalimonte 224-247, Kelly Bruner 221-191-201, Albert Salvati 207, Al Bison 201, Jack Valade 234-225, Tys Schaafsma 236-203.

Series Over 550: Kevin Kosempel 588, Heinz Kosempel551, Chris Kosempel 716, Willy Fittler 570, Ozzie Wolf 582, Dan Dalimonte 639, Kelly Bruner 613, Al Bison 550, Jack Valade 634, Tys Schaafsma 628.

High Handicap Games: Chris Kosempel 312, Dan Dalimonte 294, Tys Schaafsma 282.

High Handicap Series: Chris Kosempel 848, Dan Dalimonte 780, Nick Levchuk 773. Chris Kosempel’s high series of 716 was 2nd high for the year and his 848 handicap series was 1st high.

Standings: Dickau Construction 24, S.W. Property 23, Rhine Danube 22, Fittler Farms 21, Weil’s Food 20, Del Fresco 16.

Golden Years golf report

Forty Golden Years golfers fought through the intense morning fog to deliver 61 aces on Feb. 15 at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens.

Leading the charge with 4 each were Mary Binder and John Murphy. Carding 3 apiece were Murray Cascadden, Cathy Dewhurst, Eileen McIntosh, Andy Orsini, Barry Sweet and Mary Anne Vickery. Dropping 2 each were Al Christie, Pete Daudlin, Vicky Harris, Tom Hyatt, Laurie Hylton, Linda Norman, Faith Reidy, Moe Scratch, Bill Taylor, Doug Vickery and Ernie Vandenberg. Contributing 1 each were Dorothy Cascadden, Tom Dewhurst, Barbara Fick, Loraine Fox, Lloyd Honey, Tony Norman, Marie Lasi, Bob Martin, Barb Murphy, Gail Turk, Gerrit Vriesen, Bill Ward and Bryon Walker.

Mary Binder and Pete Daudlin led the pack with 16 over 9 holes. Close behind with 17 were Mary Anne Vickery, Murray Cascadden and Eileen McIntosh (2). Notching 18 were Laurie Hylton (2), Bill Mayville, Gerrit Vriesen, Tom Dewhurst, Cathy Dewhurst (2), Andy Orsini, Tom Hyatt, Doug Vickery, Lloyd Honey, Al Christie, Colleen Pearse and John Murphy.

Mary Anne Vickery and Eileen McIntosh set the pace with 36 over 18 holes. Recording 37 were Bill Mayville, Mary Binder, Gerrit Vriesen, Cathy Dewhurst and Tom Hyatt. Carding 38 were Bill Mayville, Laurie Hylton, Pete Daudlin, Cathy Dewhurst, Mike Binder, Andy Orsini and Bill Ward (2). Bill Mayville, Cathy Dewhurst and Eileen McIntosh set the pace with 75 over 36 holes. Bill Ward with 76, Laurie Hylton, Andy Orsini, Mary Anne Vickery and Tom Hyatt with 77, and Mary Binder and Colleen Pearse with 78 rounded out the scores over 36 holes.

First place with a strong showing of 230 was Team Aces (Bill Mayville, Mary Binder, Lynda Norman, Laurie Hylton). A score of 235 was good enough for second place by Team 9 (Murray Cascadden, Tom Hyatt, Bill Ward. There was a tie for third and final place with 238 by Team 6 (Andy Orsini, Mary Anne Vickery, Ron Fick) and Team Queens (Al Christie, Colleen Pearse, Eileen McIntosh).

Play continues every Thursday at 9:30 a.m. at Colasanti’s. New players/seniors are welcome to explore membership in this non-competitive once weekly gathering of seniors who continue to prove that “you are never too old.” For information, contact Lloyd at 519-324-1513.

Sharks look ahead to 2018-19

By Bryan Jessop

The coaching staff of the Wheatley Omstead Sharks didn’t spend much time lamenting about the frustrating end to the 2017-18 season.

Days before the 2018 playoffs ended on a fluke double overtime bounce against the second-place Dresden Kings, the Sharks’ coaches began extending player invitations to attend the offseason Spring Camp, likely to take place at Unico Arena in Leamington in May. The team officially wrapped up the 2017-18 campaign with player-by-player exit meetings on Wednesday, Feb. 14. Although head coach Dave Wiper noted that the Sharks expect the average season-to-season turnover rate of about 10 players, early intentions indicate that the Wheatley club might not have an excessive number of holes to fill for 2018-19.

Two players who won’t be returning to next season’s roster are graduatingage forward Ryan Zsebok of Leamington and defenseman Antonio Ciampa of Windsor. Zsebok had been out of action since suffering a broken hand during a November home game against the Mooretown Flags.

“When he went down, we lost a big cog in the wheel,” said Wiper. “It’s never good to lose your captain — Zee was the type of leader who didn’t let breakdowns happen.”

New Ontario Hockey Association legislation for 2018-19 will allow the Sharks to recruit players hailing from anywhere in the Windsor-Essex/Chatham-Kent region regardless of their proximity to other Junior C centres.

“We’ll be busy this summer going after players,”

Wheatley Omstead Sharks Josh Carnevale walks towards the dressing room while players salute fans at the conclusion of the 2017-18 season at Wheatley Area Arena Monday, Feb. 12. The Sharks were swept in four games of their Stobbs Division quarterfinal series against the Dresden Kings and are already taking steps to prepare for next season.

Wiper said. “Fortunately, we’ve finally got the goaltending tandem that will be one of the best in the league in the future, so we won’t have to worry about that.”

Wiper referred to the recent acquisition of 17-yearold netminder Caitlin Morin from the Amherstburg Admirals, who along with fellow 2000-born goalkeeper Dylan Zelko of Woodslee, is eligible to play up to another four years of Junior C hockey. Thus far, the team’s lineup includes only two players considering Junior B tryouts for 2018-19 — forwards Dawson Iles

and Matt Carvalho, both of Leamington.

“It’s our job to help them move up, but if they don’t find B teams next year, they’ll both be more than welcome back here,” Wiper noted.

The Sharks expect to lose fewer players than normal to post secondary educational pursuits. Wiper noted that most players who are currently preparing for college or university starting in September of this year intend to take courses in Windsor.

“We’ll be busy this summer going after players.”

— Dave Wiper

“We won’t be hit like when we lost (Eric) Prudence and (Evan) Mastronardi,

so we should be good that way,” he added.

Wheatley hopes to bring aboard more players with a scoring touch, although the franchise expects to keep leading forwards Delaney MacDonald and Cole Butler — regular season team points leaders for 2016-17 and 2017-18, respectively — as well as Alixe Saliba, who returned to the Sharks midseason from the Junior B Chatham Maroons.

One of the first set of decisions Wheatley coaches will have to make pertains to overagers. The Sharks will have as many as seven 1997-born players intending to return next season, with OHA guidelines that allow a maximum of four per Junior C team.

DALE’S FRIDAY COFFEE HOUSE

Friday February 23. Doors 6:30 pm Show 7:00 pm. OFFSITE at Knox Hall - Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. S., Leamington. Admission - Pass the hat.

The Bank Theatre is a TOP 5 finalist for the ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT – BEST LIVE MUSIC SPACE (LESS THAN 1,000 SEATS) Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island award! Vote for The Bank Theatre online at www. bestofwindsoressex.ca until March 11 - one vote per email address.

“SHOW

THE LOVE”

A double compilation CD produced by Quantum Sound Productions to raise awareness and funds for The Bank Theatre. Featuring local musicians performing original songs including Mayor John Paterson, Karen Moran, Dale Butler and 20 more! Your CD purchase doubles with the matching fund campaign! Own your copy for just $20 by contacting banktheatre@gmail.com or by visiting our website www.banktheatre.com

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Dale’s Friday Coffee House - March 23, April 27, May 25. Offsite Knox Hall - Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. S., Leamington.

Love, Sex, And The IRS - Opening Night Wednesday, April 11 - 7:30 pm. Thursday, April 12 & Friday, April 13 - 7:30 pm. Saturday, April 14 - 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm. Sunday, April 15 - 2:00 pm. OFFSITE - Leamington United Church Hall , 9 John St., Leamington. More info TBA

THE BANK THEATRE MATCHING FUND CAMPAIGN

The Municipality of Leamington will match dollar for dollar, all private and corporate donations until April 23, 2018 up to $400,000. Naming rights, seat sponsorship, individual and corporate giving options and more information is available on our website. Thank you for your support! To date we have raised $100,000!! To learn more visit our sponsorship pages on our website at www.banktheatre.com

RENOVATIONS

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

Call me first at cell: 519-324-5774 or visit us on the web: www.featherstonerealty.com

Come view all listings on our Showcase Window 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Located at 17 Erie St. North, Leamington HELEN FEATHERSTONE Broker of Record 519-326-3712 - Office

PASSION FOR

• Business Cards • Postcards

• Brochures • Booklets

• Tickets • Posters

• Large Format Signs

• Apparel & Promotional Products

print@southpointsun.ca 519-398-9098

The Old Page... Clippings from the Wheatley Journal, February, 1988

Wheatley Speakers

Three senior students and two junior students will present their speech at the Legion competition this Friday evening representing Wheatley Area Public School.

The winners in the school competition are: Front row, left to right - Drew Harvey, 1st in the Junior division; Susie Tavares, 1st in the Senior group; Walter Andre, 3rd place Junior.

Back row - Terra Epplett, 2nd place Senior; Jody Jessop, 2nd place Junior, Brook Dales, 3rd place Senior.

Romney orators

Lynne Segedin and Wesley Larent were picked as the top speakers at the Romney Central School competition. Lynne, a grade 4 student, spoke on “Treasures and Ghost Ships in Lake Erie”. Wesley is a grade 5 student and his topic was “Country Living”. Lynne and Wesley will speak at the Legion contest in Wheatley on February 26th in the Junior category.

Never was

“Pig-Town”

An old resident, who read A.C. Wood’s account of a visit to Wheatley, “way beck in the nineties”, tells us that Mr. Wood has been misinformed as to the correct reason as to why Wheatley was at one time nicknamed “Pegtown”. The reason for this nickname was not on account of razor-back hogs running the streets, but because the first house in Wheatley was a shoemaker’s. Factory shoes at that time were practically unknown, and other shoemakers followed. The system of attaching soles to boots and shoes at the time was with pegs, and because of the predominance of the shoemaking industry, Wheatley received the name “Pegtown”. The hog raising industry had nothing to do with the name, nor was the name ever “Pigtown”.

- Wheatley Journal, December 3, 1925

Competition Skaters

In recent weeks members of the Wheatley Area Figuring Skating Club have enjoyed taking part in several skating competitions. All skaters represented the local club in a fine manner and a number skated well enough to win awards.

The competition skaters pictured here and other club members are now looking forward to the annual carnival on March 26.

Front row sitting left to rightRebecca Whitcher, Janet Reid, Jenny Anne Omstead, Sherry Wright, Aimmee Barrette, Chantel King.

2nd row, kneeling - Alissa Whitcher, Amy Ascott, Amiee Sue Omstead, Allison McKeen, April Wiper.

Rear row - Lindsay Gibbons, Vicki Carter, Lesley Gibbons, Melody Wright, Brandy Martin, Tracey White, Jody Jessop, Jennifer Taylor and Terra Epplett.

Lions fend off Cougars

By Bryan Jessop

The Leamington District Secondary School boys’ hockey team has swept the Battle of the Big Cats.

The Lions officially took on visiting team status in the most recent match up against the rival Cardinal Carter Cougars Monday, Feb. 12, where they held on for a 5-3 victory. The Cougars played a more tense and spirited game than in the first match between the two adversaries, a December 21 contest that favoured LDSS 6-1. With the win, Leamington leap frogged over the Massey Mustangs for sole possession of first place in the WECSSAA Tier II boys division, with a game in hand at the time.

The Lions struck in the first and final minute of the opening period against Cardinal Carter, but the Cougars controlled the pace for much of the opening 15 minutes. On a power play, Mason Gow potted his first of four by snapping the puck past Adam Zylstra and under the crossbar after being set up by Brett Thomas and Jeron Kir.

The Cougars tied the game precisely one minute later when Cameron Taouil used his glove to knock the puck back down to the ice during a rush. With just enough room left to fire it from point blank, he snapped a low shot past Matt Ciliska. Carson Mastronardi and Thomas Jennings drew the assists.

Cardinal Carter took the lead about a minute prior to the period’s midway mark. After picking off a Lions’ passing attempt at the other end, Dante Butera raced to the LDSS goal for a breakaway opportunity, beating Ciliska with a shot into the lower right corner, unassisted. Leamington seemed poised to start the second frame down by a goal, but with 6.2 seconds left in the first, Gow took a cross-crease pass from Kir and planted it into the lower right corner before Zylstra could slide across in time to make the pad save.

“We stayed with them the whole game — it was taking too many penalties that killed us.”

— Ted Wigfield

The Lions took their second lead at about midgame, when Gow intercepted a Cougars pass near their blue line and put a fake on Zylstra to find the right side of the goal, unassisted. The advantage ran a course of 24 seconds before Taouil came up with his second of the day, beating Ciliskia to the bottom right corner from the opposite side of the net. Joel VanGellecum was credited with the only assist.

Gow gave his team its third lead of the game during a power play rush, blasting a shot that had enough momentum to continue trickling over the line after the puck struck the Cardinal Carter goalkeeper. Andrew Verhaeghe set up the goal.

Kir finished the scoring about six-and-a-half minutes into the third, burying a high wrist shot from the slot after taking a feed from Damon Palichuk.

The game took on a physical tone along the boards despite the no checking rule, with the Lions behind handed four minor penalties compared to the Cougars’ seven.

“We had a bad start, but everyone got into the game by the third,” said Gow. “All the boys are playing good now — I think we’re ready for the playoffs now.”

“Everyone kept their heads cool today,” added Ciliska. “We’ve got a solid team now. This team’s kept me in the game all the time.”

Lions coach Tony Nurse was quick to admit that the Cougars were a more formidable opponent than they had been just prior to the Christmas holiday break.

“They had a pretty good first period,” he said. “They capitalized on their scoring chances and had us on our heels for a while.”

“We stayed with them the whole game — it was taking too many penalties that killed us,” said Cardinal Carter coach Ted Wigfield. “We had our chances, but we fell short. At times, we outplayed them.”

The Cougars played the game without Jordan Gualtieri while the Lions battled in the absence of Cameron Symons, Spence Wiebe and Tanner Granger, the latter who suffered a broken clavicle that could be healed by the time playoffs begin.

Leamington’s regular season ended with

three games in as many days. On Tuesday, Feb. 13, they won 4-2 at Adie Knox Arena against the Kennedy Clippers to officially secure first place in the division. Cam Symons netted a trio while Thomas added the other. The regular season wrapped up Wednesday, Feb. 14 with an 8-5 win versus Tecumseh Vista Academy at Highbury Canco Arena. Gow lead with a hat trick while Symons added two and singles came from Thomas, Palichuk and Jaxyn Lafeber. Leamington was the only Tier II team to finish undefeated, with a record of 11 wins, zero losses and three ties.

Cardinal Carter also played a busy schedule of three games in as many days. After facing their rivals, the Cougars cruised to a 9-2 win against the Herman Green Griffins at Central Park Athletics Tuesday and then took on Lajeunesse Wednesday in what ended as a 3-1 win for the Royals. Taouil scored the Cougars’ goal.

REACH MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS IN ONTARIO WITH ONE EASY CALL!

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For more information Call Today 647-350-2558, Email: kmagill@rogers.com

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PERSONALS

YOU ARE TOO YOUNG to give up on love. MISTY RIVER INTRODUCTIONS will find you someone to spend the rest of your life with. No computer necessary. CALL TODAY (519)6584204, www.mistyriverintros.com.

CAREER TRAINING

MTO APPROVED 6.5 HR. - SCHOOL BUS DRIVER Improvement Course. Wednesday, March 14, 2018, LONDON, ONTARIO - $150.00. Certificate At Successful Completion of Course. CALL: 519-951-1605, Email: teamsafety1@bell.net

STEEL BUILDINGS

STEEL BUILDING SALE ..."REALLY BIG SALE IS BACK - EXTRA WINTER DISCOUNT ON NOW!" 20X23 $5,798. 25X27 $6,356. 30X31 $8,494. 32X33 $8,728. 35X35 $11,670. One End Wall Included. Pioneer Steel 1-855-212-7036 www.pioneersteel.ca

AUTOS FOR SALE

AUTO INSURANCE - NOW LOWER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE at Discount Rates! Quotes online 24/7 at www.jdsmithinsurance.com or CALL Toll-Free 1-800-917-SAVE (1-800-917-7283), John at Ext. 255, Evan Ext. 241, or Nelson at Ext. 220. Great coverage at the lowest rates.

EMPLOYMENT OPPS.

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

Dante Butera of the Cougars races toward the Leamington net with the Lions’ Brady Bunda giving chase during the first period of a Tier II WECSSAA boys hockey game at Highbury Canco Arena. Butera scored on the play to give Cardinal Carter a 2-1 lead, but the Lions rebounded for a 5-3 victory.

The Lions’ Coleton Graham chases Cardinal Carter puck carrier Quinn Rodrigues as he clears it from Cougars’ territory during a WECSSAA Tier II boys hockey game.

The Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority has openings for summer student labourers at the Regional Landfill located in Essex and at the Public Drop Off Depot located in Windsor. Duties include: • General physical labour.

Job Requirements:

• Valid class “G” driver’s license. • Able to work Saturdays.

• Ability to perform physical work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Wage Rate: $15.79 per hour (40 hour work week).

For further posting details and to apply online, please visit the Career Opportunities section of our website at www.countyofessex.on.ca no later than March 16, 2018.

General Labourers for 2018 Processing Season

• Day and night shifts 50-60+ hours/week (Mon.-Sat.)

• Working in warm temperatures

• Transport raw, finished & packaged materials; measure/ dump ingredients; check for basic quality defects

• Starting wage $14.00 per hour

No education, and no experience required. lori.weil@weilsfood.ca

Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority

TENDER

For the Supply and Service of One (1) Articulated Rubber Tire Four Wheel Drive Front End High Reach Loader (Minimum Operating Weight of 14,500 KG) with up to a Seven Year Service Contract to be Used at the Essex-Windsor Material Recovery Facility in Windsor, Ontario.

Details: http://www.ewswa.org/about/business-opportunities-bids/ Closing Date and Time: 12:00 Noon Local Time, Tuesday February 27, 2018

MIG Welders

Production work

Harrow-Union

$17-$19/hour

Apply w/ Resume to Elaine: elaine@personnelbyelsie.com

PERSONNEL by Elsie

5923 Tecumseh Rd E

Windsor, ON

9 AM - 4 PM

We are seeking

GREENHOUSE PRODUCTION ASSOCIATES

• Compensation is $14.00/hour

• Monday through Friday (Occasional Saturdays)

• No education or experience required.

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

Please apply at: careers@aphria.com or mail a resume to: P.O. Box 20009

269 Erie St. S., Leamington, ON N8H 3C4

Greenhouse Labour Positions Available

Wage: $14.00 per hour

Full Time Employment 40+ Hours a Week

Duties include Crop Work, Picking, Winding, etc. Fast paced environment, repetitive tasks, handling heavy boxes, bending, kneeling, attention to detail. No experience required. No education required. Must have own transportation.

Please send resume to: employment@wpgreenhouses.ca WEST POINTE GREENHOUSES LTD., 404 ROAD 3, LEAMINGTON

Job opening at a busy

RV Dealership for a HANDYMAN/GENERAL MAINTENANCE PERSON

• Must have drivers licence.

• Seasonal work.

Drop off resume in person at: Sturgeon Woods RV & Marine, 1129 Mersea Road C, Point Pelee Drive, Leamington or call: 519-326-1156 or fax: 519-326-6567

• Candidate must be a good people person.

• Computer skills an asset.

• This is a seasonal position. Drop off resume in person at:

Sturgeon Woods RV & Marine, 1129 Mersea Road C, Point Pelee Drive, Leamington or call: 519-326-1156 or

483 Erie St. North Box 130 Wheatley, ON N0P 2P0 Job opening at a busy RV Dealership for a SERVICE DEPARTMENT COUNTER PERSON

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

GREENHOUSE WORKERS NEEDED

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

Feb 13, 2018 Personnel by Elsie 1x45

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

Permanent full time weekdays including weekends. $14.00 per hour. Will train the right candidate.

Must be able to work within a group or on their own. Reliable and dependable.

Must have own transportation. Apply:

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

Notice of Planning Act Approval

Take Notice that on February 12, 2018, Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent approved two general amendments to Chatham-Kent Zoning By-law No. 216-2009. At the meeting, Council passed:

Zoning By-law No. 22-2018 to add provisions and regulations pertaining to housing and room rentals. Specifically, the by-law introduces the following definitions to the Zoning By-law:

“Rental Dwelling Unit, Small” means a dwelling unit containing four bedrooms or less, which is rented either as a single housekeeping unit or where individual bedrooms are offered for rent. None of a bed and breakfast, group home, hotel, lodge, residential care facility or nursing home shall be considered a small rental dwelling unit.

“Rental Dwelling Unit, Large” means a dwelling unit containing five or more bedrooms, which is rented either as a single housekeeping unit or where individual bedrooms are offered for rent. None of a bed and breakfast, group home, hotel, lodge, residential care facility or nursing home shall be considered a large rental dwelling unit.

Although the Zoning By-law would introduce two separate definitions, it is proposed that both Small and Large Rental Dwelling Units be permitted in all Residential Zone categories, Institutional Zones and Commercial Zone categories that permit residential uses. In an effort to coordinate the new proposed zoning regulations, if approved, proposed changes to the Chatham-Kent Business Licensing By-law will be considered at a future date, which proposes that only Large Rental Dwelling Units would need to obtain a business licence.

Zoning By-law No. 23-2018 to implement the Official Plan policy changes implemented by Official Plan Amendment 28, including:

1. Updating definitions in Section 3, Definitions, and associated changes to the Uses Permitted section in each Zone listed in Section 5, Zones.

2. Introducing regulations for secondary dwellings, in Section 4, General Provisions.

3. Introducing shipping container regulations in Section 4, General Provisions.

4. Updating accessible parking regulations in Section 4, General Provisions.

5. Various changes to setbacks in Section 4, General Provisions, and Section 5, Zones, including:

a. adding front, interior side yard, and rear yard setbacks for uncovered decks;

b. modifying the calculation to determine the established front yard setback;

c. reducing the rear yard setback in the Prestige Industrial (M4) zone;

d. reducing the interior side yard and rear yard setback in the Agricultural (A1) zone.

6. Amending the following Zoning By-law Schedules:

a. Schedule A: Zone Classifications & Schedule B: Zone Exceptions – where certain properties are re-zoned;

b. Schedule C: Minimum Distance Separation (MDS) – to be deleted in its entirety, as MDS is regulated by Provincial legislation; and

c. Schedule F: Floodproofing and Flood Fringe Areas – where the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority has provided updated mapping of flood prone areas.

Reasons for Approval

The background and reasons for the Decisions are incorporated in the two Planning reports both dated January 8, 2018, which were adopted by Council. No submissions were received with regard to the Zoning By-law No. 23-2018. Two written submissions were received by the Municipal Clerk in advance of the Public Meeting with regard to Zoning By-law No. 22-2018 and were provided to Council for consideration. All submissions received, have been, on balance, taken into consideration by Council as part of its deliberations and final decision on this matter. In the opinion of Council, the proposed Zoning By-law Amendments are consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement and the Official Plan.

General Information Applicable to the Above Mentioned Planning Act Approvals

Any person or public body who, before the decision was made or the by-laws were passed, made oral submissions at a public meeting or written submissions to Council may appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) in respect of these applications by filing with the Municipal Clerk of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent not later than 4:30 p.m., local time, on March 19, 2018, a notice of appeal setting out the objection to the decisions or by-laws, and the reasons in support of the objection. Such notice must be accompanied by the filing fee of $300.00 for each application appealed, made payable to the Minister of Finance by certified cheque or money order only, as required by the OMB. For additional OMB fees please see the OMB Fee Schedule.

Only individuals, corporations and public bodies may appeal a decision or by-law of the Municipality to the Ontario Municipal Board. A notice of appeal may not be filed by an unincorporated association or group. However, a notice of appeal may be filed in the name of an individual who is a member of the association or the group on its behalf.

No person or public body shall be added as a party to the hearing of the appeal unless, before the decision is made or the by-law is passed, the person or public body made oral submissions at a public meeting or written submission to the Council of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent or, in the opinion of the Ontario Municipal Board, there are reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party.

A full copy of the above-noted decision and by-law is available for inspection in the Planning Department at the Civic Centre (2nd floor), 315 King Street West, Chatham or at any of the Municipal Service Centres in Dresden, Blenheim, Ridgetown, Tilbury and Wallaceburg. Dated at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent this 14th Day of February, 2018.

The MUNICIPALITY OF CHATHAM-KENT

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

NOTICES

SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER

Take Notice that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land(s) described below until 3:00 p.m. local time on March 14th, 2018, at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Civic Centre, 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8

The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day as soon as possible after 3:00 p.m. at the Council Chambers of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8

Description of Land(s) Minimum Tender Amount

All lands are in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, the following are the geographic descriptions and municipal addresses.

1. Roll # 3650-020-001-34130 Pt Lt 4, Con 1, Pt 2, 24R762; Romney; Municipality of Chatham-Kent. 467 1st Concession Line, (Wheatley). P.I.N. 00846 0368 (LT).

2. Roll # 3650-020-001-58600 Pt Lt 5, Blk C, Pl 184, As In 477590; Wheatley; Municipality of Chatham-Kent Being 26 Talbot Rd E, (Wheatley). P.I.N. 00843 0006 (LT).

3. Roll # 3650-060-004-13700 Pt Lt 15, Con 13, Part 1, 24R2257; S/T TE20304 Tilbury East; Municipality of ChathamKent. Being 3719 Goodreau Line, (Coatsworth Station). P.I.N. 00823 0027 (LT).

4. Roll # 3650-140-006-35500 Pt Blks L, N & V, Plan 109 As In 109263, Harwich, Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being Brock St, (Blenheim). P.I.N. 00938 0822 (LT).

5. Roll # 3650-140-006-68800 Pt Lts 11 & 12, S Wellington St, Plan 109 As In SH1320; Harwich; Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 44 Wellington St, (Blenheim). P.I.N. 00939 0175 (LT).

6. Roll # 3650-140-006-78800 Lt 1, S Kent St, Plan 109 Harwich; Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 2 Kent St, (Blenheim). P.I.N. 00939 0258 (LT).

7. Roll # 3650-140-010-70800 Lot 9, Blk A, Plan 196, Harwich; Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 19397 Charing Cross Rd, (Cedar Springs). P.I.N. 00940 0115 (LT).

8. Roll #’s 3650-380-001-18700 & 3650-380-001-18800 Lt 1-2 Blk P Pl 144; Chatham-Kent; Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 142-146 London Rd, (Thamesville). P.I.N. 00723 0121 (LT).

9. Roll # 3650-390-003-30100 Lot 18 Blk N Plan 135; Chatham-Kent; Municipality of Chatham-Kent. 603 Fuller St, (Dresden). P.I.N. 00603 0109 (LT).

10. Roll # 3650-420-002-03200 Part Lot 31, 34 Block M Plan Old Survey As In 617188; Chatham-Kent, Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 166 Colborne St, (Chatham). P.I.N. 00503 0029 (LT).

11. Roll # 3650-420-003-15200 Pt Lt 193 Pl Old Survey As In 544843; Chatham-Kent; Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 116 Wellington St E, (Chatham). P.I.N. 00503 0177 (LT).

12. Roll # 3650-420-020-10800 Pt Lt 7-8 Blk 5 Pl 291 Together With a R.O.W. Over Pt of Lot 7, Blk 5, Plan 291 As In 346342; Chatham-Kent, Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 25 Richmond St, (Chatham). P.I.N. 00506 0300 (LT).

13. Roll # 3650-420-030-08500 Part Lot 6 Plan 28 S/S Murray Street As In 583299; Chatham-Kent, Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 198 Murray St, (Chatham). P.I.N. 00503 0280 (LT).

14. Roll # 3650-420-047-06700 Pt Lt 1 Blk L Pl 2 As In 372931; S/T Execution 05-0000001, If Enforceable; ChathamKent; Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 90 Grand Ave E, (CHATHAM). P.I.N. 00541 0192 (LT)..

15. Roll # 3650-420-050-15800 Pt Lt 16 Blk U Pl 4 As In 631272; Chatham-Kent; Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 207 Grand Ave E, (CHATHAM). P.I.N. 00547 0246 (LT).

Tenders must be submitted in the prescribed form and must be accompanied by a deposit in the form of a money order, or of a bank draft, or cheque certified by a bank or trust corporation payable to the municipality (or board) and representing at least 20 per cent of the tender amount.

Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to or any other matters relating to the land to be sold. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers.

This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. The successful purchaser will be required to pay the amount tendered plus accumulated taxes, HST (if applicable) and the relevant land transfer tax.

The municipality has no obligation to provide vacant possession to the successful purchaser.

For further information regarding this sale and a copy of the prescribed form of tender contact:

16. Roll # 3650-480-002-17300 Pt Lt 5 Pl 428 As In 661564; Chatham-Kent; Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Being 24224 Winterline Rd, (Pain Court). P.I.N. 00784 0137 (LT). $7,199.82 $9,847.37 $74,184.76 $7,231.79 $9,194.05 $18,673.41 $19,320.06 $19,832.83 $35,152.26 $20,746.97 $14,921.79 $22,343.75 $16,618.64 $26,760.69 $8,861.96 $78,277.35 Title

Amy McLellan, Manager Revenue or Steven Brown, Deputy Treasurer

of

Address of Municipality or Board 315 King Street West, P O Box 640, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8 www.chatham-kent.ca

Personal information contained on this form, collected pursuant to the Municipal Act will be used for the purposes of that Act. Questions should be directed to the Freedom of Information and Privacy Co-ordinator at the institution responsible for the procedures under that Act.

Fill those shoes faster... When “help wanted” is an urgent matter, you want a fast, effective way to reach qualified local candidates. That’s why advertising in the Classifieds is the solution more employers turn to when they want results. For rates and placement information call 519-398-9098.

2021 Division Road North

Kingsville, Ontario N9Y 2Y9

519-733-2305

www.kingsville.ca

kingsvilleworks@kingsville.ca

TAX NOTICES

2018 Interim Property Tax Bills were mailed January 30, 2018

If you own property in the Town of Kingsville you should have received your 2018 interim tax bill. The tax due dates are as follows:

February 28, 2018

May 31, 2018

Please refer to the brochure included with your tax notice for a listing of the payment options available. Avoid long lines by paying your taxes early or online through your bank.

Failure to receive a tax notice does not relieve you from payment of taxes or penalties. Penalties are assessed the day following the due date at 1.25% and each month thereafter until paid. It is the responsibility of the taxpayer to ensure the Town has the correct mailing address.

If you have not received your tax notice please call 519-733-2305 or visit the Municipal Office at 2021 Division Road North.

2021 Division Road North Kingsville, Ontario N9Y 2Y9

519-733-2305

www.kingsville.ca

kingsvilleworks@kingsville.ca FORM 6 Municipal Act, 2001

SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER

Take Notice that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time on March 28, 2018, at the Town of Kingsville Municipal Office, 2021 Division Road North, Kingsville Ontario.

The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day as soon as possible after 3:00 p.m. at the Municipal Office, 2021 Division Road North, Kingsville.

Description of Land:

Roll No. 37 11 140 000 00200 0000; Division St. N; PIN 75174-0119(LT); Part Block A Plan 1182 Kingsville as in R1136152; S/T R387279; Kingsville; File No. 16-07 Minimum Tender Amount: $17,484.75.

Tenders must be submitted in the prescribed form and must be accompanied by a deposit in the form of a money order or of a bank draft or cheque certified by a bank or trust corporation payable to the municipality and representing at least 20 per cent of the tender amount.

Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to or any other matters relating to the land to be sold. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers.

This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. The successful purchaser will be required to pay the amount tendered plus accumulated taxes, HST if applicable and the relevant land transfer tax.

The municipality has no obligation to provide vacant possession to the successful purchaser.

For further information regarding this sale and a copy of the prescribed form of tender, visit: www.kingsville.ca or if no internet access available, contact: Linda Brohman, BBA

CAMELOT SHIRES APARTMENTS

Utilities and parking included.

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

J J STITCHING - SEWING, alterations, and repairs. 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 Ave., Leamington. Email: jjstitching@gmail. com and check us out on Facebook. fe21-28

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

SOUTHPOINT PRINT: Envelopes, invoices, flyers, postcards, brochures, booklets, drivers logs, tickets, and many other custom print jobs. Call Mallory 519-398-9098 or mallory@southpointsun.ca. tf

B&B MOVING & DELIVERIES - Three guys with extensive experience moving and delivering furniture. 10% senior and student discounts. For all your moving needs, call Neil for a free quote at 519-566-1366. oc11-tf IRWIN PLUMBING - New homes, renovations, repairs. Same or next day service. Since 1999. Call Tim 519825-7245. mr8-tf

Dr. Brian E. Adamson 24 Oak St. East LEAMINGTON 519-326-8413 Eye

Chili Cook-Off and Golf Darts this weekend

The snow storm must have kept many dart players at home on February 9. Only 12 players shot Fun Darts. John Balkwill, Dave Augustine and Mike Simpson, with 5 wins, tied with Gord Crook, Terry Jackson and April Simpson. Michelle Balkwill, Mary Ann Dutot and Marcel Chittle won 4 games and that pesky skunk got the best of Sherri Augustine, Velma Hope and Dawn Lorondeau. Ladies who doubled out were Michelle and April.

Join the Fun Darts players starting at 7:30 p.m. every Friday.

Cathy Bell and Kay Shaw won twice at the Meat Draws on February 10 that were run by Gerry Soulliere. Other win-

ners were Cindy Osadzuk, David Woodward, Gerry Soulliere, Jane Pursel, Ken Drummond, Jamie Davie and Sheila McBrayne. Lori Baldwin won the 50/50 draw.

Everyone is welcome to the Meat Draws on Saturday afternoons from 3 to 5 p.m.

A General Meeting will be held this Wednesday February 21 at 7:30 p.m. Members, we look forward to seeing you in attendance.

The Chili Cook-Off is scheduled for this Saturday, however, as of last Saturday there was only one name on the list. We don’t want to have to cancel this long-standing crowdpleaser so, if you plan to enter, please come in and add your

name to the list or call Sue between 12 and 5 p.m. and she’ll add it for you. There is a fantastic prize for the 2018 champ and prizes for all entrants.

Jan Watson

Also on Saturday, upstairs, there will be a Golf Darts Tournament starting at 1 p.m. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board.

Coming up… Birthday Bash Saturday March 10, entertainment by the Pier Road Band… “Turk ’n Beaup” St. Paddy’s Day celebration Saturday March 17.

2017-2018

Flyers double Vipers

By Bryan Jessop

It may have been the day after Valentine’s Day, but the Leamington Flyers didn’t offer much love to their cross county rivals from LaSalle.

The Flyers won a crucial game against the Vipers in the race for second place with a 4-2 victory at Highbury Canco Arena Thursday, Feb. 15. Backed by a three-goal game by points leader Griffin Robinson, the win also locked Leamington into a tie for first place in the West with the struggling London Nationals. LaSalle led Thursday’s game for 23-and-a-half minutes, but couldn’t fend off the hosts’ forward attack long enough to narrow the points gap in the standings.

Two early minor penalties against the Flyers set the pace for the first period, where the Vipers outshot their hosts 14-6. Leamington struggled to create scoring chances at the south end of the rink while Connor Meyerink had to be sharp consistently in the Flyers’ zone. With just over six minutes to go, Hayden Johnston opened the scoring for LaSalle after twice grabbing hold of his own rebound to flip a shot into the right side of the goal.

couple times late in the game. LaSalle’s a good team and they’ve been capable of beating anybody these last 10 games or so — they’re going to be a handful in the playoffs.”

Leamington’s coaching staff and players alike credited the crucial two-point night largely to their goalkeeper, who made pivotal saves throughout the match.

“Meyerink was outstanding — he was our first star tonight for sure,” said Piroski. “We knew tonight’s game was a big one and we played it like a playoff game. Both teams had good power plays, we just couldn’t seem to pull the trigger.”

Robinson’s three-point night brought the team’s scoring leader to 55 points, including his fourth game winner of the season.

“I give all the credit to this team,” he said of Thursday’s hat trick. “They’re the ones who put me in a position to score like that. This was a big win for us, especially with how tight it is from first to third. We’re playing good hockey now. Our focus is to keep playing the same way and bring it into the playoffs.”

“We knew tonight’s game was a big one and we played it like a playoff game.”

- Tony Piroski

The Flyers’ attack was somewhat more of a threat in the second, although man shots fired in the direction of Dershawhn Stewart were blocked or deflected wide. Leamington came close to evening the score multiple times during their first and only power play of the first 40 minutes, but continued to trail by Johnston’s first period tally until about twoand-a-half minutes remained in the centre stanza. After taking feeds from Josh Pope-Ferguson and Zach Guilbeault, Robinson maneuvered along the perimeter of the faceoff circle to the right side of the Vipers net and released a waist-high wrist shot that eluded a screened Stewart.

The Vipers were outshot 13-7 over the course of the mid 20 minutes, where both goalies offered solid performances.

The third period proved another tense session at both ends of the ice, with overtime appearing imminent until the clock ticked down to just over six minutes. Approaching the Vipers’ goal from its left side, Rory DiNiro snapped an ice level shot into the lower right corner to give Leamington its first lead. Assists went to Dylan Weston and Levi Tetreault. Fifty-nine seconds later, Robinson sunk his second of the night, also going ice level with a shot that found its way just inside the right post. Kenny Styles and Cory Schneider drew assists on the game winning marker.

With about three-and-a-half minutes left on the game clock and 1:16 to go on a power play, LaSalle called a timeout and returned to the ice with a sixth skater and an empty net. Twice, the Flyers nearly put the game away by firing the puck the length of the ice just wide of the right and then left posts.

Eventually, when back at even strength, Robinson carried the puck to a location between the red line and Vipers’ blue line before sniping a shot into the empty goal. Kade McKibbon and Blake Bain set up the goal, Robinson’s 33rd of the season.

LaSalle’s forwards refused to give up, however, as Bradley Vincent managed to turn the puck around on its way out of the Flyers’ zone and stuff a backhander into the right side of the goal, unassisted. The Vipers’ bench again pulled Stewart for the extra forward, but to no avail.

Leamington was outshot 32-24 and was zero for two on the power play while the visitors were zero for three.

“Both teams played well tonight,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski. “We just managed to capitalize a

“We looked a little shaky in the first (period), but we turned it around for the second and third,” added Meyerink of the match against LaSalle. “This was an important game for us. Before, we weren’t really thinking about first place — we were just concentrating on the race for second. Now that it’s within reach, it’s what we’re aiming for.”

On Saturday, the Flyers paid a visit to the Sarnia Legionnaires. Leamington lost in a 3-0 score while being outshot 42-32. The Flyers went zero for four on the power play while Sarnia was two for six.

Leamington’s last regular season home game will be Thursday, Feb. 22 at 7:10 p.m. against the St. Thomas Stars. Prior to the game, the team will honour graduating age players Guilbeault, Dalton Langlois and Noah Hedrick.

The Flyers’ regular season will end Saturday, Feb. 24 against the Kings in Komoka.

Rest of the West

The Sarnia Legionnaires doubled the London Nationals 4-2 on Tuesday, Feb. 13. A day later, the Vipers came out on top 3-2 in a double overtime decision, also against London. In Thursday’s other Western game, the Legionnaires handed an 8-2 loss to the St. Marys Lincolns. On Friday, the Chatham Maroons beat the St. Thomas Stars 5-1 while the Komoka Kings lost 3-2 against the Lincolns. A busy Saturday ended with Komoka losing 3-2 to St. Thomas while London emerged as winners of a 4-1 final score against the Strathroy Rockets. On Sunday, the Maroons claimed a 7-0 victory over LaSalle, securing no worse than second place for the Flyers. Rare Monday games included a 3-2 overtime win for Komoka over Strathroy, a 2-1 win for St. Thomas against London and a 5-2 final favouring Chatham over St. Marys.

LaSalle’s Stefan Dobrich and Leamington’s Blake Bain race for a puck sliding into the corner behind the Vipers’ net during third period action of a Western Conference match at Highbury Canco Arena. (Sun Photo)

Nathan Skulley of the Flyers and Frank Zak of the Vipers eye a loose puck in the corner to the right of the Vipers’ net during the third period of a Thursday, Feb. 15 GOJHL match at Highbury Canco Arena. (SUN Photo)

Dalton Langlois of the Flyers and Eric Kirby of the Vipers battle for possession of the puck during a Thursday, Feb. 15 Western Conference match at Highbury Canco Arena. The Flyers trailed until late in the second period, but came out on top 4-2 for a crucial win in the race for first to third in the final days of the regular season. (SUN Photo)