Hogs For Hospice wins new award
By Bryan Jessop
It may be nearly seven months away, but Essex County’s premier motorcycle event has already earned accolades for its 2017 edition.
A group of eight representatives from the Hogs For Hospice board of directors made the trip up Highway 401 to set up a booth for the second annual charitable event and came home with a new award. The organization’s display — a four-month process with concept, design, print and assembly all undertaken by Speedprint in Leamington — didn’t fit into any of the previously designated award categories for the annual North American International Motorcycle Supershow. The Toronto-based attraction’s organizers, however, were so impressed with the Hogs For Hospice booth that they created a new award specifically for it, dubbed the Show Producer’s Choice for Best Charity Ride Booth Display.
The award was officially accepted by Speedprint production manager Scott Taylor, who along with company owner Brian Cornies, was one of the eight board of directors members who attended the North American International Motorcycle Supershow in Toronto Friday, Jan. 6 to Sunday, Jan. 8. The annual event is the largest motorcycle show in North America, bringing in between 60,000 and 70,000 guests from across Canada and the U.S., 1,000 bikes and 500 exhibits each year to fill 500,000 square feet of floor space throughout its five halls. Others making the journey on behalf of Hogs For Hospice included co-chairs
Joe Oswald and Donnie Pacheco and representatives of Vintage Motorcycle Club, the group organizing the show and contest segment of the Erie Shores Hospice fundraiser.
“We were pretty stoked,” said Cornies of winning the award. “It was the first time we attended the show, so we didn’t know what to expect. For us just to be recognized was great. People were blown away. We were getting a lot of attention even while we were just setting up. It was a good feeling.”
It was during this year’s NAIMS when the Hogs For Hospice group officially and publically announced this year’s opening live attraction — the Wisconsin-based band Hairball, a tribute to the arena rock era of the 1980s. The band will make its first-ever Canadian appearance at Seacliff Park on Friday, Aug. 4 as part of opening ceremonies. The band has a large following in the United States, where they perform for several motorcycle rallies including Sturgis. Videos of their performances can be seen online, including YouTube. Tickets for Hairball’s show are available at $15 each at Speedprint and Jose’s Bar and Grill in Leamington.
Hogs For Hospice will soon be announcing the headlining act for Saturday evening. Such event information will be made available on the group’s Facebook page as well as www.hogsforhospice.com. The organization’s board of directors is now seeking sponsor partnerships for the 2017 event, scheduled to run from Friday, Aug. 4 to Sunday, Aug. 6.
Monitoring of gas from abandoned well continues
The appropriate provincial ministries and agencies are continuing to work to cap an abandoned well located at a private residence in the 200 block of Robson Road, according to a press release issued Friday, January 6 by the Municipality of Leamington. Two homes remain evacuated due to operations occurring in the area to remedy the situation. Public safety remains the paramount focus during the operation.
The operation is progressing slower than anticipated due to weather conditions, proximity to a residential area and the lack of history on the well.
The Municipality continues to engage a third party company to provide continuous air quality monitoring outside of the work zone. Air quality levels have never been hazardous to the public; however, the public may experience a non-hazardous foul smelling odour depending upon wind direction and atmospheric conditions.
Progress is being made, but the localized state of emergency remains in effect as a precaution.
ABOVE: From left to right, Hogs For Hospice board of directors members Scott Taylor, Joe Oswald, Donnie Pacheco and Brian Cornies reveal their booth at the 2017 North American International Motorcycle Supershow in Toronto Friday, Jan. 6 to Sunday, Jan. 8. Organizers of this year’s NAIMS created the Show Producer’s Choice Best Charity Ride Booth award for the display, created by Speedprint in Leamington.
AT LEFT: Scott Taylor reveals the award for his group’s booth at the North American International Motorcycle Supershow.
LDSS launches E-Waste program
By Bryan Jessop
Leamington District Secondary School is hoping its newest effort to protect the environment is an easy ‘cell’ for its students.
The latest endeavour for the school’s Eco Team, simply dubbed the E-Waste Drive, is encouraging students to drop off their unused and obsolete cell phones, tablets and other devices to keep their toxic contents out of local sources of water. The unwanted electronic items are being deposited in boxes throughout the school that will in turn be upcycled within the school. The dropped off devices will be used for other purposes within the school or dismantled as part of different learning activities.
The project is being led by computer science and computer engineering technology teacher Lauren Omstead and Grade 11 student Ryan Hodgson, the latter taking on the promotion of the E-Waste Drive through social media, the creation of in-school posters and PA system announcements. Also assisting with the drive’s coordination is student Myles Thiessen, the developer of an app to monitor amphibian populations at Hillman Marsh. Creation of the app began last year and is expected to be available in the App Store within the next few weeks.
“This is a chance to educate students and encourage them to take care of these devices properly while raising awareness on how to be environmentally responsible with technology.”
— Lauren Omstead
The E-Waste Drive officially began Monday, Dec. 19 and then re-started January 9 when classes resumed following the holiday break. Omstead expects the initiative to run for an additional two weeks after the break, giving students the chance to properly discard devices that have been replaced by Christmas presents.
“There are a lot of heavy metals and other hazardous materials in electronic products,” Omstead explained. “This is a chance to educate students and encourage them to take care of these devices properly while raising awareness on how to be environmentally responsible with technology.”
Omstead explained that cell phones, iPods, tablets and other portable electronic devices contain toxic compounds including lead, cadmium and beryllium that often find their way into natural bodies of water after being thrown in the trash. For Leamington-area residents outside of LDSS, she encourages such unused items to be dropped off at Habitat Restore, located on Iroquois Road near South Essex Fabricating. From there, devices are sold to Canadian recycling companies.
The E-Waste Drive is a program the Eco Team developed after forming a technology branch, effectively combining the student-driven club and the school’s computer department. The drive was preceded by a two-week planning process and if all goes according to plan, will return in September of 2017 as a program running throughout the school year. Currently, LDSS also runs a program to collect and recycle batteries and printer cartridges.
Monday, Dec. 19 and will carry on into mid-late January, during which time students can drop off their unused and obsolete electronic devices.
Wheatley Legion news
By Jan Watson
Fourteen players shot
Fun Darts on December 30 at Wheatley Legion. Tying with 5 wins were Velma Hope, Rosemary Duquette and Richard Howe – Arnold Seili and Tracey Bruner. Debbie Ouellette, Steve Acosta and Jim McClellan won 4 games followed by Debbie Seili and Doug Seili with 3 wins. Tied with 2 wins were Garry Hope and Mike Bruner – Julie Reid and Gord Crook. Debbie Seili was the only lady doubler and Arnold Seili was hot playing with his new darts. He doubled all 5 of his games. Way to shoot, Arnold.
Join the Fun Darts players on Friday evenings. Play starts at 7:30 p.m.
Yours truly ran the Meat Draws on December 31. There were 2 three-time winners –Donna Corlett and Bill Derbyshire. The other winners were Murray Loop, Jerry Sovie, Cindy Stevenson, Rick McNeely and Virginia Rymal. There was no 50/50 draw.
The Meat Draws take place every Saturday afternoon. Tickets go on sale at 3 p.m. and the draws are from 3:30-5:00 p.m.
Beat the January blahs by taking part in this year’s annual Soup Cook-Off that will be held on Saturday January 21 at the Branch. Space is limited so please sign up soon on the sheet posted on the bulletin board if you plan to enter this fun contest. All participants will receive a prize!
Grade 11 Leamington District Secondary School student Ryan Hodgson and computer science and computer engineering technology teacher Lauren Omstead reveal a collection box for unwanted electrical devices as part of the school’s Eco Team E-Waste Drive. The in-school project began
LDSS hosts second derby cars competition
By Bryan Jessop
For Grade 8 students at LDSS feeder schools, the days and weeks preceding the Christmas break were a real drag.
The second annual Leamington District Secondary School Derby Car Races is again bringing each of its feeder schools together with a unique competition for Grade 8 students. Participating students in their graduating year from Gore Hill, M.D. Bennie, Mill Street and East Mersea during the week of Dec. 12-16 and Wheatley Area Public School, Mt. Carmel-Blytheswood and Queen Elizabeth the following week first put their creations to the test with miniaturescale drag races against their schoolmates.
For these preliminary events, a team of seven students from the LDSS auto mechanics class embarked upon a local tour of sorts, bringing along with them the equipment and tools needed to conduct the races at each school. The tech crew was divided into duties for operating the 40 foot-long straightaway, two-lane ‘track’ stationed at the staging lights, launcher, timers and projector screen-displayed brackets to display win-
ners from each head-to-head race.
Each wooden car — somewhat smaller than traditional Cub Scout racers that run along ramped tracks with divided lanes — was designed and customized by a Grade 8 student who in turn entered it into this year’s races. Each car started out as a wooden block with an air chamber inside.
After each car’s owner came up with a design, the blocks were sent to LDSS for cutting and shaping by the high school’s construction class in mid November. From there, each car returned to its owner’s school for finishing touches and customization.
To start the races, cars were ‘plugged’ into a launching device powered by an air compressor after being looped through a thin string running the length of the track to keep them running in a straight line. A series of lights at the other end similar to the staging lights or “Christmas tree” of a real quarter-mile track signaled the start of each race. Volunteer Grade 7 students assisted with the operation of the staging lights. Several elimination rounds determined the top three finishers of the competitive racing category while a panel of in-school judges selected the top three
deigns in each school.
Competitive winners from each feeder school will meet at LDSS Wednesday, Jan. 18 to race against each other in the school’s smaller of two gymnasiums. Last year, Grade 8 students from all feeder schools met at LDSS for both preliminary races amongst themselves and then ‘school versus school’ races.
“We decided to do things a little different this year,” explained LDSS tech department head Mark Dewhurst. “The kids really enjoyed it, so we started earlier this year to give them more time to get everything done.”
Point Pelee National Park temporarily closed Jan. 12-23 for deer population reduction
Point Pelee National Park will be closed to visitors January 12 to January 23. During this time, Parks Canada and Caldwell First Nation will be conducting a deer population reduction in the park as part of a multiyear plan to restore ecosystems at Point Pelee National Park.
Hyperabundant whitetailed deer are a serious threat to forest and savannah ecosystems at Point Pelee National Park. As a recognized world leader in conservation, Parks Canada is taking action through its Conservation and Restoration Program to preserve Point Pelee National Park and contribute to the recovery and protection of several species at risk.
Through over-browsing, the deer in the park are threatening the health of the Carolinian Forest which is home to many species at risk such as the red-headed woodpecker and red mulberry trees. Heavy browsing by deer is also jeopardizing park efforts to restore the Lake Erie Sandspit Savannah, a globally rare ecosystem that supports 25% of the
species at risk in the park.
Based on over 30 years of research and monitoring, a healthy balanced ecosystem at Point Pelee National Park would ideally support 24 to 32 deer. An aerial survey conducted on December 16 counted 84 deer in the park.
The abundance of leafy canopy to eat, mild winters and, most importantly, a lack of natural predators such as wolves, bears and cougars have allowed the population
of white-tailed deer in the park to grow to unsustainable numbers.
The deer population reduction is only one of a number of on-going projects at Point Pelee National Park, such as planting native Carolinian species and removing invasive plant species to minimize threats to these fragile ecosystems. Throughout Canada, protected areas like Point Pelee National Park have
an important role to play in helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change by protecting and restoring healthy, resilient ecosystems and contributing to the recovery of species at risk.
For more information contact pelee.info@pc.gc. ca or call 519-322-2365.
For up-to-date information on park closures, visit the Parks Canada website at www.pc.gc.ca/pelee
Leamington District Secondary School leadership class teacher Dan Braun and a gathering of Queen Elizabeth Public School students look on as one of the LDSS Derby Car Races competitors loses a wheel as it approaches the finish line Thursday, Dec. 22. Winners among the Grade 8 entries will qualify for the finals at LDSS between all its feeder schools on Wednesday, Jan. 18.
Students at Queen Elizabeth Public School gather in their gym to watch the LDSS Derby Car Races.
A day, a month, a season, a life
On New Year’s Eve, Mark and I enjoyed a peaceful evening eating leftovers while watching ‘The Bucket List.’ Even though the movie brought tears to my eyes, it warmed my heart to think of the opportunity we each have to plan our next move.
December was the perfect crescendo to a lovely composition. I can’t think of any moment that made up my days I would have changed. Early in the month we headed off to Belgium where we spent a seemingly too quick time with our son, Cheyne.
From there we headed back to Wheatley to share time with friends, family and especially our daughter, Anna. Small quaint gatherings made it the perfect way to visit and feel Peace-full!
and we kept an eye on the temperature gages to ensure that all was running smoothly. Other than that, we spent the days visiting, reading and resting. Sunset cocktails were enjoyed in a different location every night, followed by delicious evening meals that soothed our souls and prepared us to shut down activities by 9:00 most nights; however, not all!
Leaving Wheatley, Mark and I headed our separate ways. He flew out to Saskatchewan into the bitter cold and I headed south to meet up with three friends. The weather and their company warmed my heart and soul. The four of us flew out toward Little Whale Cay, with a toast of wine while we flew over the turquoise Bahamian waters.
On Christmas Day we walked to Stella Mare, the small church on LWC, and lit the candles. With the windows open, allowing the sea breeze and the sound of the surf to come in, we enjoyed the peacefulness together. One by one, we each shared some quiet spirit-full thoughts to ponder over.
On our arrival the entire crew minus Arthur greeted us. They were a little shocked, yet pleased at the same time, to see four women disembark the small plane. As long as I was on that flight, Charlie, my little dog could care less who else was on board. I explained to the guys that Mark had diverted his travels west to surprise our daughter Michaela and son-in-law Zach, and that I was here with my three friends to run the island. Cruz handed over the keys.
Meanwhile, in sub-zero weather Mark sat on our daughter’s front porch and surprised her when she arrived home from work on the 23rd of December. Liz and I spoke with Michaela on her drive from work and we cried with her when she determined the creepy guy sitting on her front porch was her father. It was a group hugs moment over thousands of miles!
We had arranged to fly over some shop supplies from Nassau the day before our arrival and encouraged Arthur to hop on the return flight home for the holidays. Although Arthur has total faith in me, he may not have left the island knowing four women were going to be in charge!
Mark arrived back to the island on the 27th. My relaxed and rejuvenated friends climbed on board to make their journey home. It was sad to see them depart, but they left me the best gift of time and memories that I could possibly ask for.
The following week, Mark and I had an entire island to ourselves. With no one on Big Whale or Bonds Cay to the other side of us, we were the only people within a 10-mile radius. It really was surreal.
Prior to the rest of the crew leaving to go home, we took advantage of the calm seas and I took my friends boating. Taking advantage of the rising tide, we safely visited Hoffman’s Cay where two of us jumped into the Blue Hole. I am determined to make the jump every visit. It is always a thrill; the briny salt water feels very therapeutic and also makes you so buoyant that it is as if you are lying on top of the water or the world!
The entire month couldn’t have been packaged up more perfectly. New Year’s wrapped it up when we shared dinner and celebrations with two couples from Big Whale Cay. Now here I sit a few days into a new year and contemplate what changes I will plan to make today, next week and over the months to come. It has come to me that I will try to treat every day as the gift it is, set mini goals for that day and wait patiently to see what enfolds.
From there we headed to Flo’s for an order of conch fritters and signature rum punch. We were pleasantly surprised to see the first full house and enjoyed meeting people from all over. We purposefully arrived back to the Cay by 3:30 that afternoon, allowing enough time for our crew to make the 45-minute boat ride home to Andros. We loaded their boats up with turkeys and hams, gifts from Santa and a package from the girls including a set of Toronto Maple Leaf socks. They loved them the best!
For the next five days it was just the five of us on the island. I awoke daily for a morning walk and then Liz and I fed the tortoises, chickens and the flamingos. Simple chores prior to a 20-minute yoga sun stretch grounded us.
Virginia and Cindy daily topped up the generator fuel
“Live beneath your means. Return everything you borrow. Stop blaming other people. Admit it when you make a mistake. Give clothes not worn to charity. Do something nice and try not to get caught. Listen more; talk less. Every day take a 30-minute walk. Strive for excellence, not perfection. Be on time. Don’t make excuses. Don’t argue. Get organized. Be kind to people. Be kind to unkind people. Let someone cut ahead of you in line. Take time to be alone. Cultivate good manners. Be humble. Realize and accept that life isn’t fair. Know when to keep your mouth shut. Go an entire day without criticizing anyone. Learn from the past. Plan for the future. Live in the present. Don’t sweat the small stuff… and it’s all small stuff.” – Author Unknown
Libraries matter
“Libraries matter. If we believe in equality of opportunity, we must fight not just for the buildings but for the range of books inside and the skilled staff who promote reading in all forms. Not only do libraries encourage us to be more tolerant and better informed, they contribute to the wealth of the nation.” – Ann Cleeves
Gift shop is not “business as usual”, says reader
I am upset and indignant about the firing of Maureen Sutherland, as reported in your story in the December 28 issue.
As a taxpaying citizen of the County of Essex, I continue to be appalled at the treatment of our local library staff during this long and fruitless battle that is being waged by the elected officials of the local Councils as well as by the Library Board against the women who work in the various library branches.
I would urge Mr. R. Meloche and the Board to consider the above quote by Ann Cleeves. Cleeves is a successful, award-winning British author whose books have been translated into 20 languages. Cleeves, as well as myself and many others in the county understand that libraries matter! However, it is not clear to me that County Council and the Library Board do. Perhaps if they did, the libraries would have been reopened long ago with the women employees back at their jobs.
– Diane Baker, Resident of Essex County
This is a volunteer who headed up the LDMH Auxiliary through appointment by its members, and in that position has given an untold number of hours to Leamington Hospital over many years.
To say it’s “business as usual” at the gift shop is far from accurate when staff members are in charge instead of volunteers and inventory has been allowed to run down. Further, how was firing these volunteers an appropriate response to advance notice that the shop would be closed in January?
I have done various forms of volunteering since moving to Leamington 6½ years ago and I have never seen nor heard of volunteers being treated in such a manner.
I hope Maureen and other LDMH volunteers know that they have the support of many citizens like me, who have long admired and thanked them for the hours they have donated.
– Faith Moffatt, Leamington
Quilt raffle benefits SpEqTRA
A raffle was held in December for beautiful handmade quilts with the funds raised going to benefit the Special Equestrians Therapeutic Riding Association (SpEqTRA). The draw was held in early December. Quilt winners were Joe Colasanti, Kate Conway and Laurie Blokker. The quilts were made and donated by SpEqTRA board chairperson Dorothy St. John. The funds will be directed toward the purchase of equipment and to pay the fees for instructors.
Kate Conway and her daughter Jace were the lucky 2nd place winners in SpEqTRA’s quilt raffle. Joe Colasanti won first place.
Laurie Blokker was the 3rd place winner of a beautiful quilt. Proceeds of the quilt raffle will benefit SpEqTRA.
Winter driving brings back memories
Rib’s Ramblings
I’m thankful for the small break in the frigid temperatures coming this week so I can at least get the salt rinsed off my car.
Southern Ontario winters are like no other, where you have frigid cold one week and warmer temps the next.
My Jeep Compass is in its third winter now.
Previous vehicles managed to make it through, so I’m expecting no less out of my little four-cylinder.
I’d love it to handle better in the snow but that’s my own fault for not ordering the four-wheel-drive version.
The gas mileage more than makes up for the few times I have to barrel through snow drifts.
The first car I drove was my dad’s 1974 Ford LTD. It had a 400 engine with a 4-barrel carburetor, which carried lots of power for winter driving. Many nights leaving the Leamington arena after a late hockey game,
I was faced with a snowy drive home, but that beast made it through just fine.
A few fishtails here and there were the norm on those rear-wheel drive vehicles but when I needed it to go, it went.
Of course, gas wasn’t a concern for me for a couple of reasons. At 65 cents a gallon, it didn’t cost much to fill the beast up. Also, my dad paid for the gas.
We also had a 1968 Buick LeSabre that I drove on occasion. It had a smaller engine and wasn’t nearly as good in the snow.
The first vehicle I owned was a 1970 Ford Econoline van that I bought from my oldest brother. It was all decked out in blue shag carpet by the time I got it and I spent a lot of time in that van.
There are lots of stories that could be shared of that van, but they’ll remain untold.
I was working at the Sunshine Market Gardens at that time, which later became Leamington IGA. That job eventually made it affordable for me to buy a new car, so I sold the van back to my brother and
bought a brand new 1980 Ford Mustang.
I had always wanted a Mustang, but it wasn’t the muscle car it used to be. This was a small four-cylinder coupe that really didn’t have a lot of power at all. It was terrible in the snow, but at least I could say I had a new Mustang. I bought it for $6995 from Marathon Ford’s Don Ruston.
In the fall of 1982, I was heading home from Windsor along the ninth concession, when an elderly lady in a big Buick pulled out in front of me at the intersection at Albuna.
My poor Mustang ended up on the front steps of what was then the corner store, the front end pretty much destroyed after glancing off that Buick.
I spent a couple days in the hospital with a concussion, and I eventually got the Mustang back but it was never the same.
Every time it rained, I ended up with water seeping through the floor on the driver’s side.
I traded it in for a 1984 Ford Tempo, which was a brand new model at the time.
It wasn’t a great car but got us through our first child.
I often think back to those old days, with the low gas prices and trying to maneuver through winter weather
in those four-cylinder vehicles.
In comparison, they likely didn’t handle like the big cars did, but the money saved on fuel over all of those years made up for it.
With spring on the horizon, I can look forward to some warmer driving and then I’ll complain it’s too hot and the cycle will start again.
Diana Carey of Di’s Café (far left) and Highbury Canco supply chain vice president John Kruger (far right) present a cheque of $4,000 to Leamington Salvation Army lieutenant Wavie Webster and lieutenant-corps officer/pastor Brad Webster. The donation was made in support of Salvation Army programming in Leamington. Funds were raised by a meal served to Highbury Canco staff as the third annual Di’s Café Christmas Dinner. Carey and her staff served 216 dinners from 11 turkeys and 120 pounds of potatoes. Employees made a combined $2,000 in donations, which was matched by Highbury Canco. The Websters and other Leamington Salvation Army representatives thanked Di’s Café and Highbury Canco employees for their generosity while Carey expressed gratitude toward Kruger and Highbury Canco president and co-owner Sam Diab for making the annual fundraiser possible. (Submitted photo)
By Pat Bailey
A marriage proposal that’s “for the birds”
To some it may have seemed like a ‘bird brained’ idea. To others though, it epitomized the ideal engagement for a pair of ‘lovebirds’ – an engagement that has gone viral in Australia.
It was a typical day at the Taronga Zoo in Sydney, Australia on Dec. 14.
Meghan Plumb, a zookeeper and bird trainer, had begun presenting her bird show, with Sydney Harbor serving as an incredible backdrop, for an audience that included boyfriend Patrick (Paddy) McNamara and a few of his family members.
The zoo’s media crew was also in attendance filming, but that had been explained away as a promotional ad for the zoo.
So the former Kingsville resident thought nothing of it — she was just happy to be able to include Paddy as part of the show. In one part of the show, Meghan asks if a member of the audience has a coin ready for the Galah (a small Australian cockatoo) routine.
“Whenever I have friends or family visiting, I give them a heads up to have a gold coin ready for the Galah routine,” said Meghan, “and try to use them if I can.”
As planned, Paddy raised his hand and the bird flew to him and retrieved the ‘coin’ and dropped it into Meghan’s shirt pocket. As she retrieved the ‘coin’, her look suddenly changed to one of shock as she pulled a ring out of her pocket.
“That’s not a coin,” she’s heard saying on video, sounding a little confused.
Then Meghan noticed Paddy racing down the steps of the amphitheatre, microphone in hand, as he
explained to the audience he had “a very important question to ask the beautiful zookeeper”. Within seconds, he was down on one knee in front of her, with the real ring in his hand.
“Meghan Plumb, will you marry me?” he says to his girlfriend as she still seems stunned by what has just happened.
After regaining her composure, Meghan nods her head yes but elicits a laugh from the crowd as she’s obviously unsure what to do with the bird perched on her left hand.
Bent over laughing, Meghan turns and releases the bird.
As the newly engaged couple embraced, Paddy does a fist-pump to the crowd and the song “Going to the Chapel” begins playing.
“It was such a role reversal for me standing on stage presenting my show, at my work, to suddenly being on the other side — not knowing what was happening,” said Meghan.
“I was so excited though,” she added, “I just couldn’t believe he pulled it off without me catching on — at all!”
She gives huge kudos to her fiancé for including birds in his proposal. She said he approached her boss behind her back and worked out all the details.
Although he never planned a big public proposal, said Meghan, her job just provided such a unique opportunity and definitely the perfect setting.
After the zoo put the proposal on its Facebook page, Meghan said the video just “took off”. She said Huffington Post Australia picked up on it and contacted them, as well as a radio station,
The Daily Mail, Global News, Daily Telegraph, The Project, and they also appeared on a breakfast television show.
So for Meghan, her fourmonth stint as an au pair in Australia almost six years ago has certainly turned into a life changing experience.
And it was her au pair family that introduced her to the five McNamara sisters that lived across the street. Those sisters just happened to have a brother, Paddy, who they introduced to their new Canadian friend.
For now, Meghan said the plans include a wedding on her fiancé’s parents’ country property, located just outside of Sydney, on Dec. 30, 2017.
She plans on staying in Australia for a while at least, with Paddy still having one more year of his medical studies to complete and Meghan’s plans to study Veterianary Medicine in Australia. But the permanent resident and soon to be citizen of Australia said that eventually, “I’d love to live
in Canada again at some point.”
Meghan is a graduate of Kingsville District High School, the University of Western Ontario and is the daughter of Joanne and Doug Plumb of Kingsville.
To view the unique proposal visit http://www. huffingtonpost.com. au/2016/12/15/a-guyproposed-during-the-birdshow-at-taronga-zoo-andit-was-ma/
Paddy McNamara and fiancée Meghan Plumb, formerly of Kingsville.
A scene from a very unique engagement at Taronga Zoo in Sydney, Australia.
Cavendish Farms recently celebrated 16 employees from their Wheatley plant, who combined, had 618 years of service.
Fifteen of the 16 employees who were honoured had over 30 years of service.
“I am pleased to recognize these dedicated employees. The commitment and experience they bring to Cavendish Farms has helped shape our organization,” said Robert K. Irving, president of Cavendish Farms. “They play an important role in our growth. I am proud they chose to build a career with us.”
One employee, Joe Raffoul, a senior lift truck driver from Leamington, was celebrated for his 50 years of service.
“In this day and age, it’s rare to see this longevity,” said Mr. Irving. “It’s an impressive achievement that other employees find inspiring. We’re lucky to have him on our team.”
Joe began working at the facility gluing boxes when it was owned by Omstead Foods. He joined Cavendish Farms in 2009 when the company acquired the plant.
“I appreciate the long career I’ve had and the opportunities that have been available to me,” said Mr. Raffoul. “It’s been an interesting journey to see the changes in the facility and the processing industry since I began working here 50 years ago. ”
Cavendish Farms is a proud, family-owned Canadian company that produces frozen potato products and appetizers for customers in North America and around the world. The company operates an appetizer plant in Wheatley, Ontario, and four potato processing plants in Prince Edward Island, Alberta and North Dakota.
Employees at Cavendish Farms were recognized for their years of service at the Wheatley plant. Combined, they have a total of 618 years. Front row, left to right: Edie Amaral (45 years), Rosalina Leal (45 years), Francesca Festa (45 years), Maria Rato (45 years), Maria Jardim (45 years). Back row, left to right: Laudalino Camara (30 years),
Martin Dyck (13 years), Francisco Santos (35 years), Joao Tavares (30 years), Joe Raffoul (50 years). Absent from photo: Dennis Beniuk (35 years), Silvestre Arruda (35 years), Joao Vieira (35 years), Gilberto Farias (35 years), Crisalda Freitas (44 years), Joe Freitas (49 years).
Robert K. Irving (left), President of Cavendish Farms, presents a specially designed 50 Years of Service pin and clock to Joe Raffoul (right) to mark his 50year career with the Wheatley-based company.
Shrine Club Raffle to Benefit Hospital for Children
At its installation of its 2017 officers of the Sunparlour Shrine Club, the Potentate of Mocha District, accompanied by his Divan, drew the winning ticket in the Shrine Club Raffle. Winner of the $1000 prize was Patty Meuser-Kristy of Leamington. All proceeds from the raffle go to the Canadian Shriners’ Hospital for Children, where children are treated at no cost to the family. From left to right are: Bill Butcher, John Parker, Potentate Brian Dayman, Grant Hughson, Past President Rob Adamson, Dean Bauer, President Rick Stevenson and Joe Lewis. (Submitted photo)
Canadian classic
“Better
Living” to be presented at The Bank Theatre
Ghost Light Players will present George F. Walker’s Canadian classic “Better Living” on Feb. 2 to Feb. 4 and Feb. 9 to Feb. 11 at The Bank Theatre & Meeting Place in Leamington. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the shows start at 7:30. The production is directed by Jacqueline Tinus.
In the play, Nora couldn’t be happier. Her 3 daughters will all be under one roof again. Even her youngest, Gail, with her criminal boyfriend, Junior, is welcome. But as she waits for the meek Maryann and the brassy Elizabeth to return, Nora’s brother Jack, a priest doubting his faith, warns her of the return of her tyrannical husband, Tom. Tom’s likely to still be angry about the three times Nora and Jack have tried to kill him.
“Better Living” was first produced by the Canadian Stage Company in 1986 and in the U.S. in 1987 by the New York Stage and Film Company in association with Vassar College.
Tickets for “Better Living” can be purchased online at glpwindsor.com or by calling 519-982-1212. They are also available in Leamington at The Bank Theatre & Meeting Place (10 Erie St. S.), Wharram’s Jewellery (21 Talbot St. W.), and Counter Effects (2 Iroquois Rd.).
The Ghost Light Players production will be entered for consideration into the Western Ontario Drama
League Festival, which takes place March 13-18, in Guelph. There are only 5 slots for performances and 11 companies across Western Ontario are vying
for them. Entry is gained through adjudication and this production has its adjudicated performance on Feb. 3.
LEAMINGTON BLOOD DONOR CLINIC at Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, Wednesday, February 1, 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. New Donors and Walk Ins Welcome! To book an appointment, please contact us at 1-888-236-6283 / www.blood.ca / GiveBlood App ONT. PURPLE MARTIN ASSOC. WILL HAVE ITS FIRST MEETING of the year on Saturday, February 25, 9:00 a.m., at Colasanti's Tropical Gardens, Ruthven. It's time to start getting ready for the return of the purple martins. Come out and see why members are so enraptured by this member of the swallow family. For more info call Paul at 519-738-3476.
VOLUNTEERS ARE NEED FOR BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS WINDSOR-ESSEX from the Leamington and Kingsville area. If you believe that you can make a difference in a child’s life and can commit to a minimum of one year, for a few hours a week, check out the website and online orientation at www.bigbrothersbigsisterswe.ca.
BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS WINDSOR-ESSEX ARE LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS from the Leamington area to volunteer in a group mentoring setting called On Track to Success which takes place from September to June. Info at www.bigbrothersbigsisterswe.ca/ or call 519-945-5232 ext. 23 to speak with Rose Culmone, Director of Programs.
SUN COUNTY LYME AWARENESS SUPPORT GROUP meets the last Wednesday of every month, 6:30 p.m., at Colasanti's Tropical Gardens. Learn and share about Lyme Disease. Everyone welcome.
CANADIAN TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM AND HERITAGE VILLAGE (CTMHV) ON THE ARNER TOWN LINE IS IN NEED OF VOLUNTEERS to help with kids programs such as 'Pioneer for a Day', special events, shows, meetings, or in the museum, log cabins and period buildings, etc. If you have a few hours to spare and would like to help out, contact Judy Anderson, Education and Volunteer Coordinator at CTMHV, 519776-6909 or email education@ctmhv.com
MONDAYS - SENIORS DROP-IN,1st and last Monday of the month only at 10:30 a.m. at Leamington United
Crash claims life of Kingsville man
At approximately 9:00 a.m. on January 7, 2017, Kingsville OPP responded to a collision on South Talbot Road between Essex County Road 18 and Road 5. A vehicle was travelling northbound when it failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway and entered a wooded area on South Talbot Road in Kingsville.
The lone occupant driver of the vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver has been identified as Aaron Kuhlmann, age 23, of Kingsville.
The OPP’s Technical Traffic Collision Investigators (TTCI) are completing the investigation.
Church. Guest speakers, refreshments, games, exercise. It's free, fun, and wheelchair accessible. All seniors welcome.
ARE YOU AFFECTED BY SOMEONE ELSE'S DRINKING? The Wheatley Serenity Al-Anon Family Group meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the Wheatley Friendship Club (north entrance), 171 Erie St. N. DO YOU ENJOY VOLUNTEERING AND MEETING PEOPLE? South Essex Community Council in Leamington is currently looking for volunteers for Meals on Wheels Delivery. If you are interested in volunteering during the morning for about 1 hour per week or as a back-up volunteer, please call Noreen or Susan at SECC - 519-326-8629 ext.381. www.secc.on.ca.
HELP AN ADULT LEARN ENGLISH - South Essex Community Council is currently looking for tutors for adults learning English. One afternoon or evening per week. Training/materials provided. Qualification: Fluency in English. Great for high school seniors too! Call 519-326-8629 ext. 381 or email volunteer@secc.on.ca
PREGNANCY & RESOURCE CENTRE, 33 Princes St. (Princess Centre) Suite 408, Leamington, offers free and confidential services provided by registered nurses and trained volunteers. Free pregnancy tests. Call 24/7 for free and confidential support - 519-326-0612. Business calls: 519-326-3821.
WEDNESDAYS - Are you looking for food and fellowship? Join us, no charge, at St. John’s Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington, from 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Call 519-326-3111 for more information.
IF YOU HAVE PARKINSON’S and would like to join our group for information, exercise and support, come by Tuesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. to the Half Century Club, 160 Talbot St. E. Leamington. VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED in the Wheatley area for South Essex Community Council's Friendly Visitors program for seniors and persons with disabilities. Commitment is 1 hour per week. If you are interested in volunteering or know of someone who could benefit from these services, call SECC at 519-326-8629.
Community Calendar is a FREE service for FREE events. Please see the COMING EVENTS section in the CLASSIFIEDS for events with admission charges.
BANK THEATRE NOTES
10 ERIE STREET SOUTH P.O. BOX 434
LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3W5 519-326-8805
AUDITION CALL FOR
“LEND ME A TENOR”
January 12, 7:30 to 8:00 pm
Performance run is April 6-9, 2017. Synopsis, monologues and character info available for download on our website: www.banktheatre.com. If further information is required concerning your audition contact: Renata at: sabbiamaresole@gmail.com. We are looking for: 1 male mid 30’s; 1 female late 20’s; 1 male mid 50’s; 1 male mid 40’s Italian accent; 1 female late 30’s Italian accent; 1 female mid 50’s; 1 female mid 30’s; 1 male or female late 20’s Italian accent.
DALE’S
FRIDAY COFFEE HOUSE
January 27
Doors open @ 6:30 pm, Music starts @ 7:00 pm
Come join us for an evening of music and Community. This is a free-will event with monies going to various charities in the area.
BETTER
LIVING, a Ghost Light Production
February 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11
Doors open @ 7:00 pm
Performance starts @ 7:30 pm
"No one is safe in these times...Tom's likely to still be angry about the three times Nora and Jack have tried to kill him..." Tickets are $20 and available at Wharram's Jewellers and Counter Effects in Leamington. Tickets also available online at www.glpwindsor.com or by phone at 519-983-1212.
THE MUSICAL PRODUCTION OF INTO THE WOODS
March 2-5
Presented by Cardinal Music Productions who brought us the marvelous production of The Addams Family earlier this
Check back for ticket details.
in the in the in the in the in the
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, relaxation seems like the perfect idea, but some restlessness might get in the way of these plans. Low-impact activities may be the way to go.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, if you find it difficult to ask for what you desire, garner the courage and make a stand. Trust your instincts that you deserve what you are seeking.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, you are in your element this week and you will be soaring on good vibes for several days. There’s no pressure to get things done, so keep on sailing.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, find your footing this week, which figures to be busy and hectic. Prepare a schedule so you can complete all the tasks at hand on time.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, optimism is good, but you may need to be a realist this week as well. Do not compromise common sense for the sake of seeing the bright side of everything.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, concentration comes naturally to you, but don’t focus so much that you begin to miss what’s going on around you. Seek a friend who can keep you smiling.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, you are eager to listen and learn but you also want to share your own experiences. This week you will need to find a balance between being the student and the teacher.
ANSWERS ON PAGE 21
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, avoid jumping to conclusions and encourage others to do the same. Allow things to play out before forming any concrete opinions or developing a course of action.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Make your decisions now before you add any more information to the mix, Sagittarius. Your judgement could be clouded by unnecessary data coming your way.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, you are at a turning point in your life and now may be a good time to make a few important changes. This may involve a new career path or new friends.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, even if you have a lot to get done, you will be able to think on your feet and make changes as needed. Maintain your self-confidence throughout the week.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Actively explore your impulses in the next few days, Pisces. You may not have a chance to do so in the coming weeks.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
JANUARY 8
Stephen Hawking, Scientist (75)
JANUARY 9
Kate Middleton, British Royalty (35)
JANUARY 10
Hrithik Roshan, Actor (43)
JANUARY 11
Mary J. Blige, Singer (46)
JANUARY 12
Zayn Malik, Singer (24)
JANUARY 13
Orlando Bloom, Actor (40)
JANUARY 14
Jason Bateman, Actor (48)
Wheatley Optimists support Salvation Army
By Bryan Jessop
Not all of the Leamington Salvation Army’s Christmas holiday support came from Leamington.
About a week before Christmas, the Wheatley Optimists Club made a donation of $500 to the closest Salvation Army location, accepted on behalf of the organization by SA lieutenants Brad and Wavie Webster. Presenting the contribution were Optimist Club president Larry MacDonald and secretary/treasurer Sue Adamson.
“This is a little token of appreciation for what they’ve done for the citizens of the Wheatley area,” MacDonald explained. “We really appreciate it. They’ve done a lot for the people living here.”
The most recent donation to the Leamington Salvation Army was made possible through proceeds generated by the sale of Nevada tickets, an Optimist Club fundraiser that has directed all of its revenue to various charitable causes over
the past several years. The Wheatley Optimists have made a number of donations to Leamington’s Salvation Army in recent months and years, including support of its food bank. Also during the past holiday season, the Optimists donated an estimated $200 worth of its remaining Christmas cakes to their neighbouring community’s SA.
“It’s been an ongoing thing for us,” MacDonald said of his organization’s support of the Salvation Army. “Whenever there’s a fire or any other kind of emergency here, they’re always around. When a local family is in a tough situation, you’ll see their (the Salvation Army’s) van not far away.”
Whether or not Christmas-time donations from the Wheatley Optimist Club to the Leamington Salvation Army will become an annual occurrence will depend on the need for support each year, MacDonald explained. The club’s president noted
that both his father and Adamson’s father had for years praised and spoken favourably of the services of the Salvation Army. For that reason — along with SA’s ongoing support of Wheatley-area residents — MacDoanld explained that the Optimists’ contributions were a natural fit for its fellow charity organization.
Brad Webster explained that the Optimists’ donation will be used to top up supplies that are needed for the food bank.
Although Leamington’s Salvation Army at one point appeared destined to fall short of its $105,500 Christmas Kettle goal, the final amount excluding the Pelee Island contribution totaled $118,555.03. Going into the final week of the campaign, the collected total stood at about $78,150. Last year’s sum of $107,000 was surpassed by more than $11,500, with the Pelee Is-
land LCBO kettle still to be added. The final week of the campaign, which ended on Christmas Eve, brought in slightly more than $40,400.
“This is a little token of appreciation for what they’ve done for the citizens of the Wheatley area.”
— Larry MacDonald
Wheatley Optimist Club secretary/treasurer Sue Adamson (left) presents a cheque of $500 to Leamington Salvation Army lieutenants Wavie and Brad Webster the week before Christmas. (Submitted photo)
Take the plunge on Jan. 28 in the annual Polar Bear Dip!
By Pat Bailey
For the 17th year in a row, Kim Cavers is telling people to go jump in the lake.
And she’s not talking about in a lake surrounded by a warm, sandy beach — she’s talking ice floes, snowbanks and below freezing temperatures.
But she would never tell anyone to do something she has not done herself. Cavers, organizer of the 17th Annual Polar Bear Dip, has walked the walk — well actually, dipped the dip — on several occasions herself.
She has managed to convince thousands of people to shed their winter clothing, don their best beachwear and take a dip in the frozen waters of Lake Erie. These efforts have not been in vain.
A veteran dipper, Cavers said the dip is not nearly as bad people may think it is. “It’s really not,” she said, trying to sound convincing.
To date, this Kingsville-based event has raised over $1 million dollars for ChildCan and Access County Community Support Services (ACCESS).
While Cavers had considered bowing out after topping the million dollar mark last year, she said a tremendous sense of guilt managed to convince her to continue with the dip at least one more year.
“I mean,” said Cavers, “how do you walk away from an event that is still so successful?”
But Cavers said it is also stressful and extremely time consuming. She said she often spends hours working on organizing the dip, making phone calls, recruiting, working out the details with the emergency services who lend their support, etc., before she has to go to work at her regular job.
This year, she said, at least she has someone who has offered to assist in the planning of the event — Nancy Burke, a former Kingsville resident and a dipper on several occasions.
Ideally, she admitted, she would love for Burke to take over the event. But she said she also realizes how difficult it would be for someone to take over the event with all the contacts she has established over the years, as well as a special bond to a cause that only the family of a childhood cancer survivor would fully understand.
Cavers’ son Keegan, now 23, diagnosed with a neuroblastoma as a baby, is the reason for her dedication and commitment to raising funds for ChildCan. ChildCan is the organization her family leaned on as her son Keegan and the family went through the journey of childhood cancer, an organization that offered support services and some funds along the way.
But she knows she’s one of the lucky ones. Her son Keegan is now 23 and cancer-free, and has been a dipper himself on several occasions.
The dip is just one way she has helped other families dealing with similar circumstances, and it is her way of showing her gratitude.
It’s not just the funds raised that has made Cavers so proud. The dip has also been responsible for bringing together teams of those supporting a child battling cancer, those paying tribute to a youngster who has lost that battle and those who have seemingly won that battle. It has managed to bring many families together, a support network of sorts — one that only those who have dealt with similar life threatening challenges can understand.
This year, she said, so far they have 27 teams participating in the icy plunge. Several of them have families and friends of children who have or still are battling cancer.
Others, she said, do it as a challenge to themselves, as a tick off their bucket list or just out of the goodness of their heart to support these charities.
She said they also have some amazing local teams who continue to support the dip year after year.
Kingsville’s Movati Athletic is one of those teams, said Cavers. Trish Martyn, an assistant manager of the gym, has been wonderful. “I just have to pick up the phone,” said Cavers, “and there’s no hesitation — they’re in year after year.”
And then there are the local businesses that support the dip year after year as well. In recent years, said Cavers, Switzer Carty has been so generous — donating two buses and two drivers for transporting dippers from the Lakeside Pavilion to the dipping site on Cedar Island Beach.
Others, she said, offer entertainment services and support in so many ways.
All in all, Cavers said the community support at all levels has been key to its continued success over the years.
The dip will take place on Saturday, Jan. 28, at Cedar Island Beach at 1 p.m. Prior to the dip, registration begins at 10 a.m. at Lakeside Pavilion, followed by lunch at 11 a.m., awards at noon and departure for the dip at 12:30 p.m. Cavers urges anyone wishing to watch the dip to carpool to the site because of limited parking.
Once everyone has warmed up, the event will continue with the traditional Fire and Ice Dinner at the pavilion that begins at 6 p.m., doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $40. The dinner will be catered by Vern’s, with entertainment provided by Almost Famous and DJ service Artistocrat.
The 17th Annual Polar Bear Dip will be held Jan. 28 at 1 p.m. at Cedar Isand Beach. Thousands of dippers, like those above, have helped raise more than $1 million dollars for ChildCan and ACCESS throughout the years. (SUN file photo)
Cougars fall to Vortex
By Bryan Jessop
The Cardinal Carter girls hockey team found that there’s no place worse than home after the holidays.
The Cougars lost their first game of 2016-17 Monday, Jan. 9 to the visiting Tecumseh Vista Academy Vortex, a 5-2 final that marked their first defeat since the opening round of playoffs against Harrow in February of last year. Cardinal Carter’s record fell to 6-1-1, which still left them with a six-point cushion over second-place Lajeunesse in the Tier II division.
The Vortex opened the scoring after just over three minutes of play when Serena Kelly took a rebound following a rush at Alyee Church’s net and tapped it over the goal line. The visitors cashed in on two breakaway opportunities later in the period, starting with a Maddy Beausoleil wrist shot from the right side of the Cougars’ net. The next goal — also preceded by a shot from the point in the TVA end that deflected off a winger’s shin pad to set up a breakaway — was scored by Emma Beausoleil with 0.1 second on the clock.
The second frame started with promise for the Cougars, who finally beat goalie Jayden Nyhoff after 11 seconds of play. Gioia Diciocco sent a low backhand shot into the TVA
net during an offensive rush after being set up by Bryanna Rodrigues and Paige Thompson to make it 3-1. The Vortex offense again stepped up their game from there, keeping the
puck inside the Cardinal Carter zone for lengthy periods of time before regaining their three-goal lead. From the right of Church’s net, Monica Plante fired a short-side wrist shot into the mesh with 31 seconds remaining.
Tecumseh Vista scored its final goal after 58 seconds of action in the third following a scramble near the home team’s net. Taylor Quenneville sent the puck between Church’s right pad and the right post for a 5-1 TVA advantage.
Kayla Collison finished the scoring on a charge that began from behind the opposition’s net. Moving back over the goal line, the veteran forward snapped the puck into the goal from its left side. An assist was credited to Myah Di Laudo. The curfew buzzer declared the end of the match with 5:47 showing on the clock — three seconds after the Collison goal.
“It was a poor effort — laziness,” explained Cougars’ head coach Chris Church. “Our defense didn’t play well today. They were sluggish. We’ve had slow starts before, but they (the Vortex) just kept coming at us. They dominated us today.”
“We just couldn’t get the puck out of our own end,” added assistant coach Lisa Hedges. “They seemed to beat us to the puck every time.”
Cardinal Carter has two regular season contests remaining — January 16 at Sandwich and February 7 at Essex following the exam break — before 1A-2A playoffs begin.
Abby Di Laudo of the Cougars and Maddy Beausoleil of the Vortex battle for control of the puck along the boards during a WECSSAA Tier II girls hockey game at Unico Arena Monday, Jan. 9. The Cougars lost their first game of the season in a 5-2 final.
Gioia Diciocco of the Cougars moves toward the Tecumseh Vista Academy net while goaltender Jayden Nyhoff prepares for the shot during a WECSSAA Tier II girls hockey game at Unico Arena Thursday, Jan. 9. Diciocco scored a goal in her team’s 5-2 loss, their first of the season.
Novice
Blue takes 8-5 win
On Saturday, Jan. 7, Southpoint Capitals Novice Blue took on Capitals Novice Red.
Red took the lead as Matthew Mastromatto and Charbel Tannous both scored with assists from Tony Tannous and Lucas Grilo.
Ben Arquette, assisted by Ben McFadden, was able to get on the scoreboard for Blue.
Red’s Matthew Mastrometteo was on fire as he scored 3 more goals.
Junior hockey turned upside down
Jessop’s Journal
Shortly after I started working for the Sun, I started following local junior hockey more vigorously than the NHL. Sure, that has a lot to do with the fact that it’s a part of the job, but also because I’ve become one of many fans growing weary of the BS going on in the world’s premier hockey league (yes, in case you’re wondering, I do in fact blame Gary Bettman). That’s not to say I’ve completely removed myself from keeping tabs on the Habs and the rest of the league. I thought it was pretty cool to see Max Pacioretty become the first-ever Canadien to score overtime goals in two consecutive nights. Sixteen consecutive wins by the Columbus Blue Jackets caught a lot of attention too, but therein lies one of the things that I find so frustrating. You’d think that a team having a legendary season like that (they’re in first overall league wide) would be packing the barn to the rafters with fans. Nope. Columbus is third worst in the league for the percentage of seats filled per home game so far this season. One game shy of tying the league record set by the Pens in 1992-93 and Ohio’s biggest city can only fill 80.9 per cent of its seats… and we’re led to believe that Quebec City doesn’t deserve a team.
Nicholas Di Milo was solid between the pipes for Blue with strong defense from Cohen Kimball, Andrew Malott and Gregory Brent Pimentel of Southpoint Novice Blue waits to take a shot on Owen Hunter of Novice Red.
Mastronardi. Blue’s Noah Borges was unstoppable, scoring 4 goals with assists from Chloe Taylor and Rachel Symons. Aiden Pulley
and Massimo Ingratta also scored for Blue with assists from Steve Belanger and Brent Pimentel.
Blue took the win 8-5.
Rhine Danube bowling scores
The following are the Rhine Danube bowling leagues scores for Dec. 28.
Games Over 200: Jamie Arquette 203-212, Willy Fittler 215-217-215, Richard Dickau 208, Ozzie Wolf 202, Heinz Kosempel 211-210, Chris Kosempel 211, Claudio Sabelli 200225, Dan Dalimonte 214, Tony Ingratta 203, Wayne Abbott 200-207, Tys Schaafsma 200, Jack Valade 213.
Series Over 550: Willy Fittler 647, Richard Dickau 555, Heinz Kosempel 571, Claudio Sabelli 620, Dan Dalimonte 590, Wayne Abbott 568, Tys Schaafsma 583, Jack Valade 560. High Handicap Games: Lloyd Owens 295, Tony Ingratta 294, Claudio Sabelli 286. High Handicap Series: Claudio Sabelli 803, Willy Fittler 800, Jerry Popa 772. Standings: Fittler Farms 7, Del Fresco 5, Rhine Danube 4, Weil’s Food 3, S.W. Property 2, Dickau Construction 0.
January 14
GARY ALLAN
Saturday, February 4
RON WHITE FOR MATURE AUDIENCES
Saturday, February 18
CHRIS YOUNG
I'M COMIN' OVER TOUR 2017
Friday, February 24
MICHAEL BOLTON
Saturday, March 4
Tickets on sale January 13!
IRISH ROVERS
Friday, March 17
There are other interesting stats unfolding in the NHL too. In their last season in the Joe Louis Arena, the Red Wings seem to be on the brink of missing the playoffs for the first time since 1990. They’re only six points out of a wild card spot as I write these words and they’re still approaching the midway point of the season, but every point is going to be worth its weight in gold this year. Also as I type away, the Eastern Conference’s last place team (the Islanders) are at an even .500, not including overtime losses. Also, the Leafs are/were three points out of a playoff spot. Madness, I tell you.
Most importantly, the Habs have not yet hit the self destruct button as they did around this time last season. Pacioretty has recovered from a slow start and Radulov is on top of his game. Yeah, the two that have impressed me most as of late are non-Canadian Canadiens.
Sadly, as I mentioned in my recent “times, they are a changin’” rant, our nation’s dominance of the game seems to be ebbing. Maybe we could change that by convincing our national junior team that there is NOT in fact a rule stating that you’ve automatically won the game once you’ve taken a lead of two goals or more. I too liked the odds of our team’s chances to win against the U.S. when they led 2-0 — and then again 4-2 early in the third after they allowed the FIRST comeback — but it didn’t exactly pan out. Shootouts are a horrible way to determine the winner of any playoff game, but it is what it is. I was reminded of the 3-0 lead Canada took going into the third period in the gold medal game against the Russians a few years ago. What a 20-minute train wreck that was.
The other disappointment from this year’s World Juniors was the attendance in both Toronto and Montreal. Hockey Canada, in all it’s infinite wisdom, decided that it was appropriate to charge north of $200 per ‘good seat’ ticket to games where Canada played (even tickets for Canada versus ‘also ran’ teams STARTED at more than $80 in the upper bowl). Spectator turnouts reflected the attitude towards such lofty prices. It seems Hockey Canada has learned nothing from 2015. Did the geniuses of this governing body really think that $200 per ticket for games in large cities with plenty of competitors for the entertainment dollar was really a good idea? Apparently so.
Craziness has also descended upon more local levels of junior hockey. In the 63-team Provincial Junior Hockey League (Ontario Junior C), the Wallaceburg Lakers very recently snapped a 22-game losing streak. As of Friday morning, they were tied for fifth for the league’s longest current winning streaks (two games). By the time this edition of the Sun and Journal starts hitting the streets, the Wheatley Sharks will have been the only team to defeat Wallaceburg thus far in 2017.
Oh, but it gets crazier than that. The Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Buffalo Regals, who started the season with 33 straight losses, was undefeated in 2017 as of Friday morning (January 6). Yup, they beat Pelham — which had actually been showing signs of improvement over their 2015-16 campaign — 3-2. That game, which did NOT go into overtime, featured a total of 110 shots on goal. It’s not often a goalie registers a save percentage of .943 and then loses… to BUFFALO. Hey, who needs defense?
CHEAP TRICK
Friday, March 24
RASCAL FLATTS
RHYTHM & ROOTS TOUR Friday, April 21
Tickets on sale January 21!
TONY ORLANDO
Tickets available at the Box Office, CaesarsWindsor.com, ticketmaster.ca or charge by phone 1-888-345-5885.
Even more locally, there have been upsets a plenty. Fifth-place Sarnia beat second-place London, eighth-place St. Marys beat first-place LaSalle and dead-last Lambton Shores lost by one slim goal to London (which boasts the conference’s best defense and second-best offense). Also this year, the Flyers have become the first team since mid September to deliver a second straight loss to LaSalle (they were also the team that did so three-and-ahalf months ago).
So it seems that 2017 could be the year to expect the unexpected. Maybe the Leafs will make the playoffs. Maybe Karmanos will finally sell the Hurricanes for relocation to Quebec City. Maybe the Habs won’t suffer any more injuries and march right into the finals to win their first Cup since ’93. Maybe dinosaurs will come back to life and establish a successful used car dealership in Reykjavik. Hey, I’d buy an old Yugo from an Allosaurus before I’d have faith in Bettman to permit a sensible franchise relocation.
BRYAN
Atom Minors win 4-2
Sunday, Jan. 8 was the first game back after the Christmas break. The Southpoint Capitals Atom Minors, sponsored by Jose’s Bar & Grill, took a 4-2 win over Erie North Shore Storm.
The Capitals gave it their all to get the win in the last game of the regular season. Great defense by Mateo Santos, Nicholas Beaudouin, Max Youseff and Liam Ouellette. Goals were scored by Tyler Franklin, Dayne Di Milo and Nicholas Mastromatteo (2), with assists going to Colton Selwood, Nathan Omar, Matteo Periera, and Chase Simpson, Owen Pimentel and Kaleb Jardim.
Jack Thomas had an outstanding game between the pipes.
Novice Red
Has Great Game
Tannous had a single. Both teams played hard but Team Red just couldn’t keep up with Team Blue’s offence. Great game! Both teams are looking forward to next week’s action. (Submitted photo)
Stars weekend recap
The Community Trophy Southpoint Peewee Stars began their playoff run as they welcomed the Essex Thunder to the Highbury Rink on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 8. This was an exciting, evenly matched contest that resulted in a 2-1 loss for the Stars. Meagan Derksen scored the lone Stars goal unassisted. Evan Gualtieri played brilliantly in net for the Lady Stars as she made several key saves to keep her team within a goal during the final period.
The Switzer-Carty Southpoint Bantam Stars battled the Tecumseh Tiger Cats in their first game of the playoffs. Both teams exchanged goals in the first two periods; however, the Tiger Cats exploded in the third as they scored three unanswered goals to defeat the Stars by a final score of 7-2. Hannah Chacko and Kaylie Goodchild scored for the Lady Stars with assists going to Raine Schiefer and Alexa Taylor.
The Sunbrite Southpoint Intermediate Stars began their playoff journey as they faced the Lakeshore Lightning Sunday afternoon. The Lightning bolted out to an early 4-0 lead. The Stars came alive in the third period as they scored two goals to make the game exciting; however, it ended with the Stars falling to defeat by a score of 4-2. Rookie Hannah Chacko and Kim Goyeau scored for the Stars. Scoring assists were Kayla Collison (2), and Kasia Dyck.
Next weekend the Sunbrite Stars will participate in the Brock Jr. Badgers Tournament in St. Catherines.
Friday Retirees bowling scores
The following are the high bowling scores for the Friday Retirees Bowling League at Empire Lanes for Jan. 6.
Men Over 180: Tony Dama 188; Ozzie Wolf 180, 181; Tys Schaafsma 184, 189, 213; Jamie Arquette 188; Heinz Kosempel 248, 192, 258; Jack Valade 227, 182, 224; Ernie Purr 209; Bob Sinclair 188, 181.
Women Over 150: Bernice Smith 178, 188; Diane Sinclair 167; Ann Murphy 181, 162; Rosemary Heisler 155, 169; Peggy Hillman 158, 165; Theresa DeCaluwe 180, 154, 168; Connie Popa 154; Patti Clifford 166; Susan Power 165; Betty Trepanier 154.
High Handicap Games: Heinz Kosempel 283, Lyle Douglas 279, Tony Dama 277, Ann Murphy 280, Bernice Smith 269, Susan Power 254, Jackie VanKempen 254.
High Handicap Series: Lyle Douglas 791, Heinz Kosempel 773, Jack Valade 735, Ann Murphy 779, Bernice Smith 730, Jeri Brown 701.
Charity volleyball tournament is Feb. 25
Proceeds
will go to SECC amd Leamington Food Bank
The 6th annual Charity Mixed Volleyball Tournament is coming up on Saturday, February 25. Play will be in two divisions: Co-ed Recreational and Co-ed Competitive, six on six, with a minimum of two females on the court at all times.
Games will be played at Cardinal Carter High School, Leamington District Secondary School and Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex.
Registration on tournament day is from 8:00-8:20 a.m. at Cardinal Carter. At 8:30 a.m. is a Captain’s Meeting, and games are from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Proceeds will go to The Salvation Army’s Food Bank in Leamington and South Essex Community Council (SECC).
The Leamington Food Bank relies on local and weekly church food drives to keep the pantry stocked and feed over 100 families a week. This time of year is an especially challenging time for the Food Bank and donations are greatly needed. Let’s do our part to lessen the hunger in our community! Suggested items are peanut butter, jam, cereal, oatmeal, pasta and sauce, soup, juice, instant coffee, tea, cookies, snacks, shampoo, deodorant, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, detergent, toilet paper.
South Essex Community Council (SECC) has been serving the communities of South Essex since 1973. It is a registered, non-profit, charitable organization whose mission is “Helping people. Improving lives.” SECC provides three core services: employment and training, language and settlement, and community home support services. The organization also provides a variety of income and security programs such as Coats for Kids and Keep the Heat. Space is limited for this popular volleyball tournament. Registration before Wednesday, February 8 is $210 per team plus food or non-perishable item donation. After February 8 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; or Karen Repko at 519-982-0423 or Krepko@mnsi.net Come out and enjoy a fun-filled day of volleyball and support two great causes at the same time!
Capitals Matteo Santos plays the puck. (Submitted photo)
The Southpoint Novice Red team had another great game on Sat. Jan. 7 but came up short against Southpoint Blue by a score of 8-5. Matthew Mastromatteo had another great game with 4 goals and an assist. Charbel
Other sizes available upon request. E-mail, call or drop off your announcement by Friday at 5 pm. 194 Talbot St. E. Unit 5, Leamington ON Ph: 519-398-9098 Email: sun@mnsi.net We accept CASH, CHEQUE, DEBIT, VISA & MASTERCARD
In Loving Memory of our Dear Mom and Dad
GAIL WALLINGFORD
January 17, 2005
ROBERT WALLINGFORD
January 11, 2015
To hear your voice, to see you smile, To sit and talk to you a while. To be together in the same old way Would be my dearest wish today.
With love always, Tanya, Michelle and your grandchildren
Happy 90th Birthday Betty Chambers, Mom and Grams!
~ January 11, 2017 ~ Love Gwen and your granddaughters, Sheila & Tammy
Happy 90th Birthday To You Both!!!
to
Happy 90th Birthday Clarisse (Skipper) Hamel
January 12, 1927
Mum, Grandma & Great Grandmother (G.G.)
Lots of love from your family!
Jayne, Bill, Craig, Jane, Kai, Nina and of course, Nichole (Yorkie). xoxoxoxoxo
In loving memory of a dear nephew and cousin, in God’s loving care since January 16, 2004 Gone from our sight, But never our memories. Gone from our touch, But never our hearts. Louise and Bob Cornies andFamily
January 13, 2013
We thought of you with love today. But that is nothing new. We thought about you yesterday. And days before that too. We think of you in silence. We often speak your name. Now all we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is our keepsake with which we'll never part. God has you in his keeping. We have you in our heart. Love Stacey Dzvirka (Williams) & Family
Left
right: Edna Gardner (January 2, 1927), Jayne (Hamel) Sheppard and Clarisse (Skipper) Hamel (January 12, 1927) Love ya, Jayne
Bill Willms was born in 1937 and grew up on the family farm on the 5th Concession north of Leamington. As a teenager, he bombed around town in a black and lowered 1948 Mercury 114 two-door sedan with a full-race flathead. After he blew the motor, he began looking for another car. By the spring of 1958, Bill was working full-time at the local Heinz plant.
Now he had a steady paycheque and could buy a car on his own. Jack Larsh had a red-and-white 1956 Ford Fairlane Victoria 2-door hardtop and it was for sale. Bill signed papers at the local credit union and bought Jack’s car.
It had a 292 V8 and automatic transmission. Bill squealed the tires a few times but was hungry for more horsepower. Bill and his friend Jim Dick punched out the 292 to 312 (same as Thunderbird Special V8) and local mechanic named Bill Kondruk modified the automatic transmission for drag racing. Bill could now squeal his tires at 70 miles an hour, and he did.
A crack developed on the body below the rear of the 2-door hardtop roof, a common problem on hardtops but not on sedans, with their more rigid roof line. Bill took his car to Bob Burdick’s body shop just north of town. Bob added extra metal to the body where it cracked and Bill’s car was as good as new again.
His car had two safety features installed at the factory as standard equipment: a deep-dish steering wheel and safety door locks. Bill’s car also had the optional padded dash but not the optional seat belts.
In the summer of 1958, Bill drove to Kitchener in his ’56 Fairlane Victoria to visit a friend. That’s where Bill saw a 1931 Chrysler sedan with dual sidemounts and a trunk on a rack at the back. It wasn’t running so Bill was able to buy it for $30. He and his friend towed the car to Leamington behind his ’56 Ford.
The ’56 is now long gone but Bill got the ’31 Chrysler running and drove it around town for the next 58 years. He recently downsized into an apartment. The Chrysler is now with daughter Natalie and her husband, keeping it in the family.
I’m always looking for more stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca or write Bill Sherk, 25 John St., P.O. Box 255, Leamington, ON N8H 3W2.
Get a grip… don’t be victim of a fall this winter!
Every 10 minutes in Ontario, at least one older adult visits an emergency department due to a fall.
Falls are the leading cause of injury in older Canadians and for the most part are preventable. Some think falling is a normal part of aging, but it is not.
A fall can lead to broken bones, persistent pain, hospitalization, an increased fear of falling, or sadly for some, a complete loss of independence.
There are things you can do to lower your risk of having a fall: keep active, take part in exercises that help with balance and strength, have your vision checked, eat fruits and vegetables, avoid alcohol and do all you can to keep safe.
Now is a great time to prepare to stay safe while out and about in the winter weather. The risk of falling outdoors increases with wet leaves and on ice and snow. Doing all you can to reduce that risk is important. Be prepared for walking outdoors, no matter if it is for a walk around the block or a walk from the house or grocery store to the car.
Tips for safe walking this winter:
• Be extra careful while walking on wet leaves, and wear ice grippers in freezing rain and on ice and snow.
• Slow down and watch for ice.
• Install and use a handrail.
• Keep your mind sharp and your body relaxed – plan
your next step before making it. Be sure to take small and steady steps.
• Wear light-weight footwear that is warm, waterproof, has a wide, low heel with a thick non-slip sole.
• If you are using a cane to assist with walking, add an ice pick to help keep a grip on ice and snow.
• Keep steps and pathways clear.
Bill Willms’ red-and-white 1956 Ford Fairlane Victoria in sales brochure.
Students from East Mersea Public School performed for a gymnasium full of family and friends during the school’s annual Primary Christmas Concert on Dec. 22. The event featured a number of Christmas carols and a play performed by students.
(Submitted photo)
Sharks edged by Blades
By Bryan Jessop
Despite a commendable effort, the Wheatley Omstead Sharks came up just shy of achieving a comeback against the visiting Blenheim Blades.
The Blades jumped out to a 5-0 lead by the halfway point of the game before Wheatley’s offense exploded for four straight goals to bring a 5-4 deficit into what turned out to be a scoreless third. The Sharks outshot their guests 34-29, but couldn’t find the equalizer, taking their sixth loss in their last seven games.
“Right now, this team is so hungry to get the win,” said Sharks head coach Dave Wiper. “The morale is still there, but we didn’t start well tonight. Most teams down 5-0 would quit. We deserved a win, but couldn’t get it.”
The Blades’ Nick Delyzer started in on the damage in the first, scoring twice before the game was five-and-a-half minutes old. His first was scored at the 55 second mark after Wheatley goalie Daniel Tonietto lost the puck in his crease.
Delyzer tapped the puck in at ice level before the goalkeeper or his defensemen could recover it. The Blenheim forward’s second came off a quick wrist shot into the right side before Tonietto could slide across his crease to follow the Austin
Bentley pass.
George Wood made it 3-0 by tucking a wrist shot above the goalkeeper’s shoulder and under the crossbar from inside the faceoff circle to the right of the net. With 42 seconds on the clock, Kier Cumming engaged in a one-on-one leg race before sending a low snap shot into the net’s right corner from the far side.
The Sharks had several opportunities to put themselves on the scoreboard before the first whistle, but were constantly denied by Eric Stewardson between the pipes. Wheatley’s offense kept the Blades on their heels for much of the final seven minutes of the opening frame, but couldn’t find the back of the net.
The first half of the second period
was largely uneventful at both ends of the ice while the second half was a flurry of offense, also at both ends. Dustin Maines added to Blenheim’s lead by grabbing hold of a rebound from a pad save by Erik Morneau, who replaced Tonietto to start the second stanza. Maines buried a low wrist shot to give the Blades a comfortable 5-0 lead. Over a span of three minutes and 42 seconds however, the guest team’s lead became anything but comfortable, as the Sharks bounced back with four straight. Jack Leafeve was the first to beat Stewardson, tipping an ice-level slap shot from the point by Mitch Lantin directly in front of the crease to go five hole. Eric Prudence also assisted. Forty-seven seconds later, a two-on-one break for Alixe Salibe and Delaney MacDonald ended when the former took a pass from the later and put a fake on Stewardson before beating him on the backhand. Ben Nicholls also assisted. Prudence made it 5-3 by deflecting a high Antonio Ciampa wrist shot
from the point back down to knee height before the puck hit the back of the net. Mitchell Prudence also assisted on the power play goal.
The Sharks pulled to within one when Justin Pinsonneault got creative and from behind the net, banked a shot off Stewardson’s left skate and back over the goal line. Quinton O’Brien and Jake Pickersgill assisted. Wheatley outshot the Blades 17-9 through the mid 20 minutes.
Both teams had a few chances to add to the score in the final 20 minutes, but neither could beat the opposition’s netminder. The Shark’s bench pulled Morneau for the sixth attacker with about 1:20 remaining and applied heavy pressure in the dying seconds, but couldn’t solve Stewardson a fifth time.
“We didn’t have any puck luck in the first, so we made our own in the second,” said Wiper. “That’s what got us back into the game. In the first it seemed like every time they shot, it went in while every time we shot it bounced off a leg.”
On Saturday, Wheatley paid a visit to the Canadiens in Lakeshore, where they lost in a score of 4-1. Former Sharks Nick Tavolieri-Essex scored the game winner late in the first period following a JJ Percy power play goal 5:30 after the opening faceoff. The Canadiens’ Joe Binder scored the only tally of the second period to make it 3-0. Lakeshore’s final goal was scored at about the midway mark of the third on a Jake Nimmo effort to beat Erik Morneau in goal. Mitch Topliffe’s shutout bid was spoiled by Ciampa on the power play with
about eight-and-a-half minutes to play.
The Sharks were outshot 35-24 and were one for five on the power play while the hosts went one for three. On Wednesday of last week, Wheatley lost 4-2 to the Flags in Mooretown. Pinsonneault and Lantin scored for the Sharks.
Wheatley’s next home game will be Wednesday, Jan. 11 when they host the Petrolia Jets at 7:30 p.m. The Sharks will again host the Jets Monday, Jan. 16 for a 7 p.m. start.
“Right now, finishing fifth is our goal,” Wiper noted. “We’re still capable — we’re competing every night. We’ve got to get our guys feeling good about themselves and the only way to do that is with a win.”
Midget Majors streaking into OMHA playdowns
Southpoint’s Midget Major team completed the regular season portion of their schedule over the weekend with wins in Essex and Belle River. These two wins gave the Midget Capitals eight victories in a row while remaining unbeaten in their last nine contests.
Thursday evening saw the Midgets travel to Essex to take on the Ravens. Each team has been jockeying for position in standings and this game had playdown seeding implications.
The Capitals started slow and fell behind early 1-0; however, they would find their stride in the second, and goals by Dawson Iles and Brett Enns tied the game 2-2 after two periods.
The third period saw the Capitals take control scoring three unanswered on their way to a 5-2 victory. Goal scorers in the third were Brett Enns, Ma-
son Gow and Dawson Iles.
Tristan Edmundson was solid in net making key saves throughout the contest.
The Midgets travelled to Belle River Saturday to take on the Jr. Canadiens. The game saw both teams take their turn with the lead, and after some back and forth play the score was 4-4 at the second intermission.
Once again, the Capitals came out and played a strong third period, killing off a few penalties and scoring the go-ahead goal en route to a 5-4 victory. Goal scorers in the game were Dawson Iles, Brett Enns (2), Tyler Zsebok and Zack Dillen.
The Midget Major Capitals will now ready themselves for the first round of OMHA playdowns, likely to begin this weekend against local rival Erie North Shore.
Nate Broek of the Blades chases the Sharks’ Jack Leafeve as he carries the puck deep in Blenheim territory.
The Sharks’ Kyle Gagnon goes airborne as he is hip checked by Blenheim’s Derek Hueni on the Blades’ blue line during the first period of a Stobbs Division game at Wheatley Area Arena Monday, Jan. 9. The Sharks lost 5-4.
Jake Pickersgill of the Sharks and Michael Vanek of the Blades get tangled up as they keep an eye on the play at the point.
G. Allen Beacom
G. Allen Beacom of Tillsonburg and formerly Aylmer passed away at his residence on Wednesday, January 4, 2017 in his 87th year.
OBITUARY
Katherine Schmidt
On Wednesday, January 4th, 2017, Katherine Schmidt went to be with her Lord and Saviour as the result of a tragic accident at the age of 51.
Winnifred Hillman
Beloved husband of the late Jo Ann Beacom (2016). Dear father of Lori Beacom (Dave Lovenjak) of London and Cathy Bedard (Gregory) of Tillsonburg. Loved by his grandchildren Stephanie Brown (Michael), Tyler Kavanagh, Andrew Lovenjak, Paul Lovenjak, Ryan Lovenjak (Hailey), Adele Aarts (Jeb) and Rachel Bedard (Steffan Foster). Great-grandfather of Hudson, Eric, Adam, Grace and Graham. Also survived by a number of nieces and nephews. Brother of Charles Beacom (Marilyn), Doug Beacom (the late Jean) and Maxine Emery (Bob). Predeceasd by brothers Lorne Beacom (the late Fay), Ken Beacom, Willis Beacom (the late Sandra), Wesley Beacom (the late Gladys), Grant Beacom (the late Norma), Ross Beacom (the late Donna) and Harold Beacom (the late Eugenea).
Born in Mersea Township on April 28, 1930, son of the late Wilfred and Violet (Stevenson) Beacom, Allen live in Aylmer since 1974 and was retired from the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Cremation has taken place and a family service will be held at a later date. Burial of ashes at Aylmer Cemetery.
Donations to the Cancer Society or Heart & Stroke Foundation would be appreciated.
Share memories or condolences at kebbelfuneralhome.com
Court of Revision
To start the first meeting of the New Year, on Jan. 9 Leamington Municipal councillors met as the Court of Revision to approve the maintenance schedule for the Sun Parlour Drain with By-Law 55-16. The matter has been amended a few times before this and there was no opposition.
Kathy was the beloved wife of James and adored mother of Jacob, Adam, Nathan, Emily and Hannah. She was the loving daughter of Hugh and Donna Swain and sister to Cindy Archibald, Diane Rundle and Andrea Spoltore. Kathy will also be greatly missed and fondly remembered by a multitude of extended family and friends.
Kathy dedicated her life to caring for her beautiful family.
She enjoyed her work as an educational assistant with the Thames Valley District School Board and cared deeply for her students. Kathy was a faithful member of West Park Church and active in many areas of service. Kathy will be remembered for her supermom capabilities, tender warmth, contagious laugh and generous spirit.
Visitation will be held at West Park Church, 955 Gainsborough Road, London, on Thursday, January 12th, 2017 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-9:00 p.m.
A service to celebrate and remember Kathy’s life will be held at a later date.
The family thanks everyone for their gracious support in this time of need.
In memory of Kathy and in lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation are asked to consider the Thames Valley Children’s Centre (through the Children’s Health Foundation) or the Schmidt Family Education Fund (through Westview Funeral Chapel).
For information and online condolences, please visit www.westviewfuneralchapel.com
Tourism report to Council
Kyra Knapp, Leamington’s Culture and Tourism Developer, presented highlights of the New Leamington Tourism website to Municipal Council at the Mon. Jan. 9 meeting. The website can be viewed at www.onthe42.com
As part of her presentation, Knapp discussed Municipal Council hiring professional chef and television personality Lynn Crawford for this summer’s Sip & Savour Experience.
Winnifred Aileen Hillman (nee Cascadden) passed away peacefully in her sleep Thursday, December 29, 2016, at Henley House, St. Catharines, halfway through her 102nd year.
Councillor Bill Dunn wondered what the ticket sales would be like compared to the financially unsuccessful first attempt last year. The response was that there is a realistic expectation for ticket sales — at
The daughter of Morley and Margaret Cascadden (predeceased), Winnie was born in Ruthven, ON in 1915. She married Arthur Hillman (predeceased 1991) in 1933 and moved to Kirkland Lake in 1936 where they raised their five children. She lovingly leaves her son Floyd (Barbara) of Leamington and their children Karen Newton (Don), Pat (Mary), Kelly Drummond (Dave), Kathy Gradwell (Wayne) and Brian (Connie); her daughter Shirley Warchol (predeceased 2001) (Chester – predeceased 2016) and their children Steve (Bahar), Wendy Bol (Gary) and Wayne; her son Larry (Elizabeth) and their daughter Ashleigh, Larry’s former wife Marjorie and their children Laurie Holditch (Gord), Valerie (partner Arthur Cathcart), Darryn (partner Sandy Patrick) and Peter (Jocelinne); her son Wayne (predeceased 1990) and his children with Theresa, Tim, Sandra Robinson (Don) and Bob (predeceased 2010) (Pamela); and her daughter Sharon Savage (John) and their children Michael (predeceased 2006), Dave (Kim), Brian (Debbie) and Cheryl Fabbro (James). Winnie was sister to John (Jack) Cascadden (predeceased 2006) and aunt to a number of nieces and nephews. Besides the grandchildren mentioned above, Winnie was so proud of her 36 greatgrandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren.
Winnie worked for many years at Mary’s Ladies Wear in Kirkland Lake as a popular sales lady and continued in this line of work at Wallaces when she and Art moved to St. Catharines in 1967. Winnie and Art enjoyed many pleasant summers at their cottage at Crystal Lake and some of the grandchildren even remember Grandma Winnie’s “Heat for the Seat” that always hung on her kitchen wall, but was never actually used – or was it? In 2004, after suffering a stroke, Winnie moved to Henley House in St. Catharines where she was cared for so lovingly by many doctors, nurses and caregivers. The family wishes to thank all these wonderful people for their dedication in making Winnie’s final home as pleasant and comfortable as possible.
In accordance with Winnie’s wishes, cremation has taken place.
A Celebration of Life and interment will take place in Leamington in the Spring.
least as good as last summer’s event — as well as the active marketing skills of a professional event planner to help raise the profile and participation of paying customers to the event.
The Sip & Savour event is contingent on successfully getting a grant of about $84,000 and is relying on sponsorships amounting to $32,000. That understood, Municipal Council agreed to a ‘first charge’ on the 2017 tourism budget of $40,000 to ensure the participation of Chef Lynn Crawford and of a suitable Event Planner.
FOR RENT COMING UP
LOWER 2 BEDROOM
Apartment for rent in Leamington. Available February 1st. Call 519-7918080. ja11
NEWLY RENOVATED 2 BEDROOM apartment in Leamington for rent. Fridge & stove included, and laundry hook-up. Available immediately. Call 519-8160068. ja11
COUNTRY COURT APARTMENTS
280 Sherk St. Leamington
• 2 Bedroom Apartment.
• Renovated, convenient location, near shopping, sports complex and Seacliff Park.
• Secure entry and manager on site.
519-326-0320
ERIE APARTMENTS
137 Erie St. South 2 bedroom units available. 2nd & 3rd floor. 13th month free. Available immediately. Call 519-791-1972
LEAMINGTON LAKEFRONT
Upscale and Affordable in Leamington’s ONLY waterfront rental apartment building overlooking Leamington Marina and Park and minutes from the beach. Amenities include:
• library and social rooms
• new Smart Card “no coin” laundry
• beautiful lobby
• underground parking
• outdoor balconies
• FREE utilities and window coverings
• Fully secured and 24-7 onsite management. Ask us about our limited time “New Tenant” incentives. www.ska-apartmentrentals.com Call Mike or Kevin 519-326-8819
KINGSVILLE LEGION
BRANCH 188 - Friday Night Dinners 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Weekly Specials $14 (Ribs or Perch). Other weekly menu items $12. Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month 8:00 p.m. 519-7335162 (office) or 519-7339081 (bar). ja6-tf
BUYING GOLD
JEWELLERY + ALL coins, all coin collections, gold & silver coins, sterling flatware, gold jewellery (even broken), windup watches, Moorcroft. Thursday, January 12, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Unico Building, 37 Beech St. Kingsville (beside A1 Flooring in strip mall). 47 years experience. House calls available. Dan W. Jones, B.A.B.Ed, 519-8191805. ja11
SERVICES
J J STITCHING - SEWING, alterations, and repairs. Pants shortened $8.50 plus tax. (Some exceptions may apply such as lined pants). If your clothing is too tight or too baggy, give me a call to see if it can be altered. Call Jean at 519-968-2261. 14 Johnson Avenue, Leamington. jjstitching@gmail.com no30-ja25
PRINTING: BUSINESS ENVELOPES,invoices, flyers, business cards, custom print jobs, whatever your printing needs, call Jolene at The Sounthpoint Sun for quick and economical service, 519-398-9098. tf
AUCTIONS
Legacy Auctions
“Managing your estate with respect & compassion” PREVIEW
PUBLIC AUCTION
Old Fashioned Auctions
The Corporation of
Supervisor, Membership Services and Marketing
Reporting to the Manager of Recreation, the Supervisor of Membership Services and Marketing is responsible for the department’s event management, marketing of recreation services, special events coordination, membership sales, sponsorships, membership retention program, graphics promotions and design. The position is responsible for the preparation and maintenance of the financial and statistical control systems of facility users. This role will supervise customer service staff including the evaluation of customer service. This role is responsible for the organizing and processing of membership registration, as well as coordinating and assisting outside groups in staging special events within the Municipality.
For complete details regarding this position, please visit our website at www.leamington.ca/careers
Application Deadline: 11:59 PM, Sunday, January 22, 2017.
Del Fresco Produce Ltd. is looking to add to our team and hire for the position of:
Responsibilities:
• Monitor excess and inadequate inventory levels daily
• Work with Sales Division on client requests and specifications
• Ensure customer specifications and communications are regularly updated
• Take sample of products, examine products to ensure conformance to company and customer standards
Personal Suitability:
• Ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, work in a fast paced environment
• Must be a team player, excellent leadership skills
Mucci Farms is currently recruiting for the following positions:
DRIVERS / MATERIAL ANDLERS
Forklift certificate expired? No problem we certify in house!
Kingsville location
Full time and weekend positions
• Students encouraged to apply • $14.00 per hour + benefits • 14.50 steady afternoon shift • $14.75 steady midnight shift • 44-48 hour work week • Shifts (Mon. - Sat.)
Dr. Brian E. Adamson 24 Oak St. East
• Must be organized, accurate, pay attention to detail, be able to problem solve
Work Settings: Cold warehouse setting
Experience: 1 year to less than 2 years, must have completed high school
Salary: to be determined, depending on experience
Please forward Resume to:
By Email: hr@sunritegreenhouses.com By Fax: 519-733-5290
If interested, please forward resume to: careers@muccifarms.com
GREENHOUSE WORKERS NEEDED
Employees will be required to carry out all job tasks as specified by the operation manager.
Specific duties include: Pruning, clipping, harvesting and cleaning work area. Repetitive task, standing for extended periods, hot humid conditions, comfortable working on scissor lifts, handling weights of up to 23 kg or 50 lbs, report signs of insect or disease damage.
Permanent full time weekdays including weekends $11.40 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:
We are currently seeking an experienced candidate for the FULL TIME, PERMANENT POSITION OF METAL MECHANIC/ FABRICATOR GENERAL LABOURER
Wages are negotiable upon experience. Please forward resume in person to: 229 Talbot St. W. Leamington between the hours of 7:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday - Friday. Or by email to: leamingtonglass@bellnet.ca
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER
A leading company with strong ties to the community is looking to hire a full-time Administrative Assistant/ Graphic Designer to assist with their growth and strengthen their team.
Terms of Employment: Full Time, Day, Some Weekends
Anticipated Start Date: As soon as possible
Skill Requirements:
Education: High School Diploma, Completion of College/ technical training is an asset
Experience: Experience is an asset
Essential Skills:
• Produce digital and print media using Adobe Creative Suite Programs,
• Exceptional knowledge of Microsoft Office Programs
• Multi-task in an environment with short deadlines
• Learn and adapt quickly
• Possess a strong skill and mannerism to make those around them feel comfortable
Work Setting: Small office, Fast-paced environment Work Samples: Portfolio
Please Mail or Drop Off Resume: Box R, 194 Talbot St. E. Unit 5 Leamington ON
Del Fresco Produce Ltd. is looking to add to our team and hire for the position of:
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Managing employees
• Establishing working schedules
• Training staff among other duties
• Ensuring quality standards are met at all times
• Working with inventory control software
Requirements:
• Experience and knowledge of produce considered an asset
• Must be able to work well with others and be able to work independently
• Attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills
• Attendance important
• Must have completed high school
Salary: To be determined, depending on experience
Job Conditions:
• Permanent full time position which requires day, evening and weekend work
• Fast paced environment
• Physically
•
Greenhouse Worker
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Crop work, winding, pruning, harvesting
• Checking quality of harvested produce
• Other duties as assigned
WORK CONDITIONS:
• Fast-paced environment, repetitive tasks, standing for extended periods
• Bend, crouching, kneeling, hand-eye coordination, attention to detail
• Working at heights, hot environment
WAGE AND HOURS:
• 40 plus hours a week including Saturdays
• Wage: 11.43/hour, seasonal, full time
Please forward your resume by email to: hr@orangelinefarms.com (627 County Rd. 14, R.R. # 5, Leamington, ON N8H 3V8)
YELLOW TAXI - DRIVERS and Dispatcher needed. Apply in person at 208 Erie Street North. We will provide our updated vehicle, soon computer dispatch center. Or phone 519-326-0555 and ask for Mike or Leo. We will train the right candidate. ja4-11
LITTLE CAESARS LOCATIONS in Leamington, Kingsville and Essex have full and part-time positions available. Experience with food preparation and cash handling preferred. Drop resumes at any of the above Little Caesars locations. oc19-tf
WAREHOUSE WORKER/TRUCK DRIVER
Canadian horticultural supply company has an immediate opening for an experienced Route Driver for delivery routes in southern Ontario. This is a full time position operating from our Leamington distribution centre.
Also immediate opening for forklift operator/warehouse worker.
Qualifications and Experience
• Experience as a Warehouse Worker / Driver.
• Valid forklift licence.
• Valid driver’s AZ licence and good driving record (must provide drivers abstract, CVOR and Police clearance).
• T.D.G experience an asset
The successful candidate will be well organized, efficient and self motivated. The nature of our business is fast moving and dynamic so you will need to be flexible and able to effectively deal with changes in business needs as they arise.
Please email your resume to: andrew.mccormick@plantproducts.com
We thank all applicants for your submission however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Please forward
SUMMER STUDENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The Town of Kingsville is seeking applications for student employment for the period of May 1, 2017 through September 4, 2017. Information and application forms are available at the Municipal Office and online at www.kingsville.ca under the Employment Opportunities heading. Interested applicants must submit the Application for Student Employment form along with a resume and cover letter no later than Friday, March 3, 2017 at 4:30 p.m.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
IN THE ESTATE OF DONALD LLOYD WATSON
All claims against the Estate of DONALD LLOYD WATSON, late of the Municipality of Leamington, in the County of Essex, who died on or about the 13th day of November, 2016, must be filed with the undersigned solicitors for the personal representative on or before the 27 th day of January, 2017. Thereafter the undersigned will distribute the assets of the estate having regard only to the claims then filed.
Dated: December 21st, 2016 Matthew M. Caron PEARSALL, MARSHALL, HALLIWILL & SEATON LLP.
Barristers and Solicitors 22 Queens Avenue Leamington, Ontario N8H 3G8
TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the County of Essex will undertake deliberations and consider adoption of the proposed 2017 Budget on Wednesday, February 1, 2017 at 4:00 PM in the Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, Essex County Civic Centre, 360 Fairview Avenue W., Essex.
ADDITIONAL BUDGET DELIBERATIONS (if required) will take place during the regular meeting of Essex County Council on Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, Essex County Civic Centre, 360 Fairview Avenue W., Essex.
COPIES OF the proposed Budget will be available beginning Monday, January 23, 2017, at the County Administration Office, Essex County Civic Centre, Suite 202, 360 Fairview Avenue W., Essex between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM or can be downloaded from the County website at http://www.countyofessex.on.ca. Alternative formats are available upon request.
CONTACT the undersigned if you have any accessibility or accommodation concerns regarding attendance at this meeting.
WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS relating to the proposed Budget will be accepted until 4:30 PM, Thursday, January 26, 2017 by the undersigned.
Robert Maisonville
Director of Corporate Services/Treasurer
County of Essex
Tel: 519-776-6441 Ext. 1328
TTY: 1-877-624-4832
Fax: 519-776-4455
rmaisonville@countyofessex.on.ca
www.kingsville.ca kingsvilleworks@kingsville.ca
TAKE NOTICE that The Council of The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville will consider amendments to the following By-laws:
• Fees and Charges By-law 25-2015, as amended
• *Water Rate and Sewage Rates By-law 2-2014, as amended, and
• Building Services By-law 37-2015 (Permits Fees and Fees for Other Services) at its Regular Meeting to be held on:
Monday, January 23, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at Kingsville Council Chambers, 2021 Division Road North, Kingsville
*The proposed Amendment to the Water Rate and Sewage Rates By-law includes an increase to the sewage rate and an increase to the water rate.
A Summary of the Proposed Amendments pertaining to each of the above-mentioned By-laws will be available online at www.kingsville.ca on Friday, January 13, 2017. Anyone wishing to appear before Council to speak to this matter may advise the Clerk in writing not later than 12:00 noon on Wednesday, January 18, 2017. Comments which are made at the meeting or in writing will become part of the public record which is available for anyone to view on the Town of Kingsville website.
DATED at Kingsville, Ontario this 6th day of January, 2017.
Jennifer Astrologo, Director of Corporate Services/Clerk The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville 2021 Division Road North Kingsville, Ontario N9Y 2Y9 www.kingsville.ca
WANTED
WANTED: OLD TUBE AUDIO EQUIPMENT. 40 years or older. Amplifiers, Stereo, Recording and Theatre Sound Equipment. Hammond Organs, any condition. CALL Toll-Free 1-800-947-0393/519-8532157.
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!
HEALTH
CANADA BENEFIT GROUP - Attention Ontario residents: Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Tollfree 1-888-511-2250 or www.canada benefit.ca/free-assessment
2016 2017 FLYERS TAME VIPERS
BY BRYAN JESSOP
Thursday, Jan. 5 was a night to forget for Canada’s national junior team, but it was one worth remembering for Canada’s most southerly junior team.
The Leamington Flyers weren’t the least bit rusty following a two-week break from the holidays, starting the new year off with a 5-3 victory over the Western Conference-leading LaSalle Vipers. The victory pulled the Flyers into a tie with third-place Chatham at the time, although the Maroons had three games in hand.
Leamington outshot the Vipers by a narrow 11-10 margin after 20 minutes but were the more dominant team through the opening period. The hosts were virtually perfect in the first according to the officials’ whistles, having triggered no offside or icing calls and committing no penalties until after the buzzer sounded. The only goal of the first stanza was scored by Scott Florence on Eli Billing’s doorstep, where he deflected a low shot from the point by Sylvano Valente. Flyers’ points leader Cale Phibbs also assisted on the tally.
Leamington expanded its lead in the second when Nicolas Mainella picked the puck up along the boards to the left of the LaSalle net and after making his way to the slot, buried a knee-high wrist shot beyond the glove of Billing. Liam Hogan and Thomas Virban assisted.
“I took a nice pass and found myself going against the way I shot,” Mainella explained. “The puck happened to go just inside the post. Those ones can be tough to stop.”
The Vipers bounced back with two straight to tie the game and bring a 2-2 score into the third frame. During an odd-man rush, Brett Primeau one-timed a pass from point blank range, offering
Noah Hedrick little chance to make a save. Zack Hoffman tied the game with about five minutes to go, sending a sharp-angle wrist shot into the top right corner from the left of the Flyers’ net in an unassisted effort.
The Vipers established a 10-7 shots on goal advantage for the second period.
Leamington took its turn to bounce back in the third, where it found the back of the LaSalle net on 50 per cent of its shots. The home team took another lead 72 seconds into the final frame
when Griffin Robinson skated his way through traffic starting at the guests’ blue line before sending a waist-high wrist shot into the mesh. Josh PopeFerguson was credited with the only assist. Brett Vorshuk took game-winning goal honours with a wrist shot while approaching the Vipers’ net from its left side. He potted his 13th of the season by sending the puck at waist height to the opposite side.
Brayden Klemens added an insurance goal at roughly the mid-way mark of the period with a slap shot from the point that hovered just above the surface of the ice before being deflected high and into the netting from inches in front of the goal line. Robinson and Mitchell Crevatin collected assists.
LaSalle responded with a Chris Playfair marker with 3:20 remaining in a case of too little, too late to force overtime against the Flyers. Leamington was outshot 31-21 and went zero for two on the power play while the Flyers never went short-handed throughout the match.
“We came ready to play tonight,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski. “LaSalle’s our biggest rival, so it’s always good to beat them. It’s nice to show the boys that we can play with the top teams. We played hard tonight — it was a complete team effort where everyone contributed. That’s what we have to do to be successful.”
“We got off to a good start and played hard,” added Mainella. “We haven’t had the bounces against them this season, but we did tonight.”
With the Flyers’ win, the Vipers were dealt two consecutive losses for the first time this season since Sept. 14 and 15 — a 4-2 loss to the London Nationals followed by a 3-2 loss in Leamington. On Jan. 4, the St. Marys Lincolns handed the Vipers a 4-2 loss at the Vollmer Centre in LaSalle.
Rest of the West
The year 2017 began with a 4-2 upset win for the St. Marys Lincolns over the West-leading LaSalle Vipers Wednesday, Jan. 4. Also that day, the London Nationals nipped the Lambton Shores Predators 4-3. The Sarnia Legionnaires defeated the Nationals 5-2 on Thursday, followed by a 4-3 win for the Chatham Maroons over St. Marys and a 6-2 victory for the St. Thomas Stars against the Strathroy Rockets on Friday. On Saturday, the Preds beat the Rockets 3-2 in overtime, followed by a 5-2 Sunday win for the Nationals over the Maroons.
UPCOMING HOME GAMES: Thu., Jan. 12 vs. London, 7:10 p.m. Thu., Jan. 19 vs. Strathroy, 7:10 p.m.
UPCOMING AWAY GAMES: Fri., Jan. 13 vs. St. Marys, 7:30 p.m. Wed., Jan. 18 vs. LaSalle, 7 p.m.
Griffin Robinson of the Flyers celebrates his third-period goal during a Thursday, Jan. 5 GOJHL game at Highbury Canco Arena against the LaSalle Vipers. The Flyers won the game — their first of 2017 — 5-3. (Sun photo)
Flyers’ Junior C affiliate Brett Smith checks Clay Kraynack of the Vipers into the boards. (Sun photo)