The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington will review the proposed 2016 Budget on Wed. Feb. 3 starting at 9 a.m., and if necessary Thurs. Feb. 4 (9 a.m.) and Fri. Feb. 5 (9 a.m.).
The budget review will take place at Council Chambers at the Leamington Municipal Office, 111 Erie St. North.
Proposed budget documents will be available for inspection at the Leamington Municipal Office on Monday, February 1, 2016 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
You may view a copy of the agenda at www.leamington.ca - agendas, meetings and minutes.
Municipality and Teamsters ratify collective agreement
The Municipality of Leamington and the Teamsters have ratified a new collective agreement. The new contract is from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2018.
The increases in wages are:
• 1% in 2016;
• 1% in 2017;
• 1.5% in 2018.
Also included is a onetime “Recognition Pay” of $500 per person paid in 2016 in recognition of the willingness of the Teamsters to accept 0% increases over the past 2 years due to the Heinz closure.
Outdoor sports in limbo for new LDSS
By Bryan Jessop
Plans for the new Leamington District Secondary School ensure ample accommodations within its soon-to-be-built four walls, but questions remain on the site’s ability to host outdoor sports.
On Tuesday, Jan. 19, the Greater Essex County District School Board officially approved plans to build a $32 million replacement for the current LDSS — situated at 125 Talbot St. West — on a 19-acre plot occupying the vacant lot immediately south of Oak Street West and west of Sherk Street. The school itself will provide 121,507 sq. ft. of combined floor space via two levels. Construction is expected to start during the spring of this year and be completed in July of 2017 — in time to welcome staff and students for the introduction of the 2017-18 school year. The construction project will go to tender following approval from the Ministry of Education, which the local school board expects in the near future. As the ground on the site currently exists, two separate grades will require football and soccer fields to be laid out separately from each other. With the school to be built close to Oak Street, the available space for outdoor sports on the more southerly section of the property cannot presently accommodate one larger field for both football and soccer.
“When we have to take care of things like roof repairs, boilers and windows, we can’t really pay for a new track.”
- Scott Scantlebury
that the board has been in contact with a local school community representative with regards to making arrangements for grading the land to one level. Doing so would allow for one field large enough to host both soccer and football games at the high school level.
“It’s not a question of size,” Scantlebury said. “The overall plan for the property includes potential for a track and full-sized soccer pitch and football field.”
Greater Essex County District School Board public relations officer Scott Scantlebury explained
Until the new site is able to host football, soccer and track, Scantlebury noted, LDSS athletes will be able
to use the existing walking trail to travel to sports facilities on the current Talbot Street West property for games and practices if necessary. The ‘old’ LDSS field and track will be available to students until the school board sells the property. Other school boards and the hosting municipality are given the first opportunities to purchase the land and facilities of unused GECDSB schools at fair market value before public buyers are given the chance to make offers. Presently, the Municipality of Leamington has not expressed an interest in purchasing the property.
If required, municipallyowned facilities could also be used to host Windsor Essex County Secondary School Athletic Association (WECSSAA) soccer games, as the Association routinely does across the county for sports like hockey and baseball. Scantlebury pointed
out that seeking permission to use sites owned by other school boards such as the Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board’s Cardinal Carter on Ellison Avenue will not likely be necessary.
A more daunting task than providing football and soccer areas for the new school will be the construction of a new track for running and sprinting events. Scantlebury explained that two significant obstacles stand in the way of the board’s ability to build a new track. First, he noted, the two companies that the GECDSB has hired in the past to construct, repair and maintain rubberized tracks no longer exist. Secondly, he stated that the cost of building a track would exceed $1 million, acknowledging that word of a $1.2 million price tag
(Continued on Page 3)
The Leamington District Secondary School track, located immediately north of the main building, may still be utilized by student athletes if a new, replacement school on Oak Street West does not include a new track. The cost of building a new rubberized, eight-lane track is estimated at over $1 million.
(SUN Photo)
Public consultation meeting held to discuss closure of one Catholic elementary school in Leamington
By Pat Bailey
They appeared resigned to the fact that a Leamington Catholic elementary school will close at the end of this school year, like it or
not. They displayed a united front, until it came to which school should remain open. It was a coming together of sorts for heads of the parent councils at St. Louis and
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Queen of Peace elementary schools at Monday night’s (Jan. 25) public consultation meeting on the fate of Leamington’s Catholic schools.
Marianne Baeini, cochair of the St. Louis Catholic School Advisory Council, and Francine Mastronardi, chair of the Queen of Peace Catholic Advisory Council, said they are united in their efforts to ensure the best possible Catholic education for the youngsters attending both schools. They spoke together in support of the proposed changes and the creation of a middle school for Grades 7 and 8 which will be housed as a separate entity at Cardinal Carter Secondary School. The duo told the Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board’s Accommodation Review Committee
that after touring Corpus Christi Middle School/F.J. Brennan, they believe such a model can also work in Leamington.
“We saw for ourselves the potential that can be brought to the Leamington area Catholic schools,” said Baeini. “Amazing things can and will happen for our students.”
But they also offered several recommendations to ensure the success of those students affected by the change.
Queen of Peace vice chair
Patricia Amaral spoke on the proximity of the school to Cardinal Carter and the campus feel it helps foster.
She said it provides an abundance of opportunities for Queen of Peace students to visit the school to attend plays, Easter egg hunts, Dance-o-logy and other special events and projects throughout the year – without having to worry about costs for transportation to and from Cardinal Carter.
Audrey’s Clubhouse Latchkey and Early Learning Centre currently operating out of St. Louis school, joined Baeini in her efforts to sway the board to reconsider the closure of St. Louis.
She told the panel that she employs 14-17 qualified Early Childhood educators, providing childcare for about 52 families, and latchkey services for another 50 families.
Amaral said it is also a benefit to CC students as well. She said the close proximity allows the high school students to fulfill course requirements, work co-op placements, assist Queen of Peace teachers, referee elementary sports and fulfill community service hours.
Fittler said their centres also work in conjunction with a wide variety of support agencies, including Children First, Children’s Aid Society, John McGivney Children’s Centre, Windsor Essex County Health Unit and the City of Windsor.
Gracing the Kingsville Folk Music Festival stage August 12-14 is Connie Kaldor, a Juno award winning artist who has sung for royalty (Joni Mitchell, the Queen) and is a member of the Order of Canada. Her touring has taken her across North America and around the world. She has fourteen albums to her credit; three award winning children’s books/cd’s, a musical and much more.
Her original songs and riveting performances evoke the powerful and unique presence of the Canadian prairies. Witty and serious, down-home and metropolitan, her versatility and talent ensure that she is an artist whose fan base expands with every show. www.conniekaldor.com
Those recommendations include: separate entrances; access between the middle school and high school limited to staff members with the use of swipe cards; no portables for middle school students; temporary housing of middle school students (if Cardinal Carter is not structurally ready to accommodate them) at the school slated for closure; prior tour of Cardinal Carter for incoming middle school students; each student to be assigned a Chrome Book during their middle school career; no high school students in the cafeteria while middle schoolers are on lunch period; the addition of another gym; implementation of athletic academies and enhanced academic programs; continuation of the Gesstwood trip for Grade 7s and the Muskoka trip for Grade 8s; and proper supervision of the middle school students throughout the school day.
But that is where their solidarity came to an end.
Mastronardi said she agrees with the Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board’s original recommendation that Queen of Peace should be the site to remain open.
She pointed out the space available at the Queen of Peace site – 9.86 acres.
Mastronardi said the property provides plenty of room for expansion, or even the construction of a new elementary school without interfering with the current school.
Not only is Queen of Peace close to Cardinal Carter, Amaral also pointed out that it is also within walking distance of St. Joseph’s Church, the Complex and Seacliff Park.
But St. Louis representatives had their own reasons to encourage the board to amend its recommendation and retain St. Louis as the board’s lone Catholic elementary school in Leamington.
Baeini said she believes St. Louis encompasses everything the Ministry of Education is looking for in its schools.
“St. Louis is a true community hub partnered with Audrey’s Daycare, the Children’s Regional Centre and our parish with the Catholic Women’s League,” said Baeini.
She also cited the school’s healthy eating program/breakfast program, the inclusion of a transition room, the school’s culture, the many clubs it plays host to, a recently graded asphalt play area, and it’s a pilot school for the Technology Project.
But there were others who wanted answers for students currently attending feeder schools outside of Leamington.
Derek Thachuk, Holy Names Elementary School council member, and father of six, said the addition of a middle school would make it a ‘harder sell’ for students in places like Essex or Kingsville. He said the incoming high school students would feel even more like outsiders if they hadn’t attended the middle school.
Others attending the meeting had questions on the French Immersion program, registering their children for JK, start and end times, and bussing.
Moderator Donne Petryshyn, third party chairperson, along with the panel of Colleen Norris, senior manager of human resources and policy development, Rosemary Lofaso, superintendent, and Paulette Littlejohns, recording secretary, promised to take all the questions back with them and prepare a staff report which will be available on Feb. 9. She told the group of about 150 that their findings will then be presented to the board on Feb. 25, with a final decision to be made Apr. 5 at Cardinal Carter.
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The building itself, said Mastronardi, also boasts a double gym, a large library resource and computer room and an abundance of natural light in its classrooms.
When it comes to academics, Baeini said since 2010/11 to 2014/15 their EQAO results have increased dramatically in both Grades 3 and Grade 6 (with the exception of a provincewide downward trend in Grade 6 math last year).
Audrey Fittler, owner of
The modified accommodation review study for the Leamington area was approved by the board Nov. 24, in an attempt to eliminate empty student spaces within the Leamington family of Catholic schools.
KINGSVILLE FOLK FEST SPOTLIGHT - PERFORMER OF THE WEEK
Francine Mastronardi, left, chairperson of the Queen of Peace Catholic School Advisory Council, and Marianne Baeini, co-chair of the St. Louis Catholic School Advisory Council, speak in support of a new Catholic middle school at Monday night’s Accommodation Review public consultation meeting at Cardinal Carter.
(SUN Photo)
Point Pelee deer herd reduced by 41
By Bryan Jessop
A recently-completed deer cull at Point Pelee National Park is being considered by Parks Canada staff as a step forward in population control, but will not be the last measure taken to protect habitat and affected species.
The most recent cull at the local park began Jan. 7 and concluded Jan. 19, during which period 41 deer were shot. Point Pelee superintendent Karen Linauskas explained that the park’s deer population was estimated to be well above 100 prior to the controlled hunt and that despite this month’s reduction, the number is still well above what the facility can sustain.
“Moving closer to the target is all we’re trying to do,” said Linauskas, who explained that a total of 24 to 32 deer at Point Pelee would be ideal. “We’re doing this because the current population is unsustainable. We have to protect the park’s savannah and its ecosystem.”
An overabundance of deer at the nearby national park has been an ongoing threat to native, endangered flora that multiple species of wildlife depend on to live in the region, Linauskas noted. Parks Canada decided to reintroduce culls at Point Pelee on an annual basis starting in January of last year, when 72 deer were killed. This year’s sum of 41 likely brought the population down to a count from just below to just above 100, although a specific number cannot be cataloged until sufficient snowfall allows for a routine Parks Canada helicopter census.
The census is easier to conduct at Point Pelee than at other parks because of its relative small size and narrow, north-to-south shape. Other parks, as Linauskas explained, have multiple regions that are easy for a counted species like deer or moose to roam in and out of during an aboveground census. The majority of Parks Canada’s Hyper Abundance Species Directive program costs at Point Pelee — roughly $7,000 — come through the helicopter census.
Deer culls have been utilized as a means of population control at centres including Rondeau Provincial Park as well as Thousand Islands National Park between Kingston and Brockville. The culls at Point Pelee, like those at other
“We’re doing this because the current population is unsustainable. We have to protect the park’s savannah and its ecosystem.”
- Karen Linauskas
parks, offer the meat from the animals killed to be used for ceremonial and personal use by local First Nations.
The local hunt was conducted by members of Caldwell First Nation.
Parks Canada staff hope to bring Point Pelee’s deer population down to sustain-
able levels within the next three years, after which point the animals will be monitored to determine when and if further culls will be required. Linauskas explained that this year’s cull has been met with a variety of public feedback.
“We’ve heard different types of reactions,” she said. “There have been positive comments, questions and we’ve addressed concerns. We’re addressing how these decisions are made and why.”
Culls at the park have been and will continue to be conducted in early January because of this time of the
year’s lower visitor traffic. The park is closed during culls for safety reasons and in the event that the hunts are scheduled at a different time of the year, visitors will be notified beforehand. Point Pelee was reopened to the public the same day this year’s cull ended on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Upcoming weekend events will include the park’s Owl Prowl, starting at 7 p.m. at the Vistors Centre on Friday, Jan. 29 and Saturday, Jan. 30.
Outdoor sports in limbo for new LDSS
(Continued from Front)
could be accurate. Although speculation has circulated that repairs to the track at the current LDSS could come at a fee of $800,000, Scantlebury explained that he has not yet received any official estimate on the price of such a project.
Although the layout of the new school’s master plan provides allowances for an eight-lane track, the cost of including one is not in the budget. The $32,080,000 set aside for the school includes $23.5 million for construction and most of the balance to purchase required land. Scantlebury explained that a track could be built later in the future if the needed amount of money is provided through local community-driven fundraising or if a contingency budget becomes available in the event that the building’s construction comes in under cost. With a backlog of required GECDSB-wide renewal projects reaching a cost of $320 million and board-wide funding of only $5 million per year from the Ministry of Education, directing financial support from the province into a new track at LDSS won’t be possible through the foreseeable future.
“When we have to take care of things like roof repairs, boilers and windows, we can’t really pay for a new track,” Scantlebury said. “However, that doesn’t mean a track can’t be built at some point later on.”
Scantlebury went on to explain that several schools within the GECDSB do not have their own tracks. Larger events including local elementary school Track and Field Days could take place at other board facilities such as Essex District High School, Tecumseh Vista Academy or Sandwich Secondary School in LaSalle.
“Having tracks arranged regionally is something that makes sense right now,” Scantlebury said. “The sustainability costs are quite high.”
Signage at Point Pelee National Park indicates the facility’s closure as a safety precaution during a deer cull that ran from Jan. 7 to Jan. 19. Parks Canada representatives explained that the park’s deer population of well beyond 100 is a threat to native plant species and an ongoing effort to restore savannah habitats.
Being a child of the sixties
I am a child of the sixties from Leamington, Ontario.
I’ve ordered Teenburgers at the A&W on the ridge, and yes I may have taken one or two root beer mugs home with me along the way.
I’ve tobogganed down the Ridge Hill and scraped my knees up pretty bad.
week to see if they would.
I also spent much of my childhood dreaming about finding the secret location of the Bat Cave.
I’ve thrown up from riding the Tilt-A-Whirl at the Leamington Fair.
I’ve had greasy hands from the bottom of Ray Leach’s popcorn bags and enjoyed every minute of it.
I spent my summer days running thought the woods of Point Pelee, barefoot and fishing for carp at the boardwalk with a treble hook and slice of bread.
Hop Sing, Miss Kitty, Mr. French and The Ghoul are all familiar TV characters to me.
I picked beans and ate them raw in the field. I picked tomatoes too and it took hours to get the dirt off my knees.
I rode in the back of a pickup from our place inside the point to Grubbs just outside the park gates and never even got a scratch.
I’ve ridden the mechanical horses in front of Loblaws and the real horses at Roy Harris’ stable on Robson Rd.
I’ve skated on the ice at the old Leamington Arena when it was surrounded by chain link fence instead of plexiglas and remember when the ice cleaner was a tractor with a box on the back of it.
I remember going to Stewarts Drive-In on Robson Road and spent time swimming in chest deep water off the rocks where the marina is now located.
Everyone I knew from Wheatley had a nickname and they all had snowmobiles.
My first few hockey sticks had a straight blade on them. The only plastic on my skates were the plugs at the back of the blades.
I watched the South Essex Hockey League every Monday night during the winter.
There was only one type of perch in Lake Erie and none of them were white.
Possums were a southern US animal and I don’t remember seeing one as a child.
I was amazed at the size of the Pelee Motor Inn when it was built and believed the rumours that Elvis stayed there.
I remember the original Sturgeon Creek bridge.
I cheered for the Leamington Dominions roller hockey team and roller-skated at Casper’s Pavilion before it was the home of Birdies Perch.
I’ve sat in the balcony at the old Vogue Theatre.
I had my first legal drink at the I.T. and remember when people called it the Bucket.
I’ve got great memories of Checker Flag Raceway and Bob-Lo Island.
I bought bottled pop from the chest-type machines with the sliding bars and pull-up release.
Beer brands like Cinci, Black Label and Old Vienna were popular and only came in stubby bottles.
I have memories of the Heinz whistle blowing every day and the fire whistle blowing a certain number of times based on what quadrant the fire was in.
I’ve smuggled, or been smuggled, into the drive-in theatre in the trunk of a car.
I’ve worn painter pants, Jordache jeans and bell bottoms in my life.
I had one of those plastic green pickle pins from Heinz factory tours, even though I never took the tour.
Our phone ringer was one long, two short and we had to wait for our neighbour to get off the phone before we could make a call.
My mother treated my cuts with mercurochrome and iodine, and colds were treated with nostrils full of Vicks Vapo Rub.
My hair was cut at Jerry Thompson’s barbershop until I became a teenager and Ben Adams took over in his basement shop on Mill Street.
My shoes were always purchased at Nielsons or Watsons when I was a kid. I always wanted Keds but never got them.
I clipped baseball cards to the wheels of my bike with a clothespin just to sound ‘badass’.
I remember looking forward to ‘Firecracker Day’ and getting my own supply of lady fingers and cherry bombs.
I collected pop bottles along the roadside at Point Pelee and cut asparagus that grew wild down there.
I spent much of my childhood worrying that the castaways would never get off the island and tuned in every
So many things can be associated with growing up in this area. I’m sure I’ve just touched the surface. We all have our own memories, but it’s always good to reminisce, isn’t it?
I feel greatly relieved that the deer cull in Point Pelee is over. Every day I have felt an overwhelming sadness thinking about what was happening in the Park to our deer.
This letter is in response to Arthur Hill’s letter regarding the deer cull, which he obviously feels as bad about as I do and I am sure many of the people living in this area.
energy and bad karma that now exists there? Of course, it will be different. The creatures that live there know that their peaceful home has been violated by men, by guns, by noise, and the smell of blood and death.
When the deer were first introduced into the park, I fail to understand why they could not have been spayed/ neutered so that the deer could live out their lives with a small population. This would have been affordable and I am sure there are many people that would gladly have donated towards this if it meant the deer could live and die the way nature intended.
Now we have a situation where the deer reproduce, and then when they become a “nuisance” for various reasons it is decided that they will be culled. I hear all of the arguments about conservation, hunters being good shots, the deer do not suffer and I say, ‘what a load of baloney that is!’
When Mother Nature is left to do what she does best, everything is in balance. It is when human beings interfere, as we so often like to do, that we see problems manifest. Then it is the animals that pay the ultimate price.
Mr. Hill writes about the change that he feels in the park. Well, how could it not feel different with the suffering and death, the blood and guts, the sheer negative
Why is there a war on our wildlife? Not only do I hear about deer culls, but now the MNR in Ontario is currently proposing new hunting regulations for coyotes and wolves. The new regulations would allow for the hunting of an unlimited amount of coyotes in the province, as well as create new boundaries for wolf hunting that don’t protect the at-risk Eastern Wolf.
Plus, the Wynne government allowed the spring bear hunt, and there was an absolute massacre of the grizzly bear in B.C.
There are ways to live alongside these creatures without all of this misery and suffering. Honestly, we should be ashamed!
All of these creatures have the God-given right to live their lives in peace. It is 2016; surely we can devise better ways, kinder ways, of handling these animals.
Until then – sad to say – we will see their blood freezing in the snow and for those of us that have empathy, we will say a prayer for those precious lives because in my world all life matters.
Monica Reynolds, Leamington
Editor,
Leamington Lions plan for platinum
Special to The Southpoint Sun
By Mina Wiebe
Leamington District Secondary School (LDSS) has continuously taken action in an attempt to contribute to being environmentally friendly. The students and teachers have been working to make changes within the school and community, specifically through a group that they call the “EcoTeam”. These students hope to achieve a Platinum EcoSchools certification, which would allow for recognition of the achievements made throughout the school in terms of being environmentally friendly.
The Ontario EcoSchools program reaches over 730,000 students every year, and through the process of gaining certifications, schools are able to implement environmental plans and practices. LDSS is one of the 1,745 schools across Ontario that continues to take part in this successful program.
The mission behind the program is to educate people about environmental issues such as climate change, and to act against these issues. LDSS students have taken part in this by pledging to decrease the use of plastic water bottles within the school; the students instead opt for the use of reusable bottles. Students are also encouraged to turn off all lights and computer monitors when not in use, to conserve energy.
The school’s EcoTeam has taken action throughout their school, as well as throughout the community. They advocate for change through their social media, which has allowed them to catch the attention of Catherine Mckenna, who was appointed Minister of Environment and Climate Change by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Members of the EcoTeam directed several video clips towards Mckenna on Twitter, to which Mckenna replied: “Hey @LDSSEco! We shared one of your videos at my stakeholder briefing in Paris today.” The videos feature members of the EcoTeam proposing solutions for climate change, and in a separate Tweet Mckenna also thanks the students for submitting the videos.
LDSS students also took part in a Windsor Climate March on November 29, 2015, to participate in the movement for climate justice. Sporting their EcoTeam shirts, the students marched with handmade signs that read “be the change” and other ecofriendly slogans.
EcoTeam leader Carlos Pena spoke in front of the large crowd, expressing his desire for environmental change, specifically for the rising climate issues. The Climate March took place in 175 countries, and LDSS’s involvement was evident through their active participation.
EcoTeam members continued to raise awareness following the Climate March, by planning and hosting a school assembly to educate their peers on the environmental issues at hand. The students watched a presentation on proper recycling techniques, how to reduce your negative impacts on the environment, and various other environmental topics. They explained their goal of achieving a Platinum Ecoschools certification, as well as their propositions for how to attain it.
Students and teachers at LDSS hope to continue their so-far successful contributions. To find out more about the EcoSchools program, visit their website at: www.ontarioecoschools.org. The program is free of charge for all publicly funded schools.
Provincial dedicated gas tax agreement
Leamington has up to $189,000 available to support public transit, but to get it the municipality must enter into an agreement with the Province.
At the Jan. 18 meeting, members of Council voted to enter an agreement concerning the use of these funds with the Province.
Easement granted
In the site plan agreement from when the Real Canadian Superstore was built, the road at the light that leads to the store’s parking lot was transferred to the municipality (to establish the roadway as a highway). However, that hasn’t happened yet for technical reasons. Consequently, the real estate company that owns the Superstore property has asked for an easement over this roadway.
The issue arose because the realtor wants to sell the land to the west of the road, and the road’s location is described as being part of the land they want to sell, and not the land that makes up the parking lot.
Council granted the easement at the Jan. 18 meeting.
Celebrating the Karen New Year
By Carolyn Reid
On Sunday, Jan. 10 the Karen community celebrated the Karen New Year 2755 with festivities and feasting.
The ceremony program was led by Bway Paw. Truly sounded the Buffalo’s horn to begin the celebration.
The afternoon was joyous, filled with various presentations. The Karen National and Canada flags were honoured. There was singing by the Leamington Karen youth, Kwe Tha Ku’s family, Dah Poe and friends, Eh Moo Taw and friends, and a speech from Karen Community Canada Chairman Mahn Kyaw Shwe, who lives in London. Guest speaker was Marlene Dyck from North Leamington Mennonite Church. A New Year history presentation was made by Nay Hta Gay and Nay Moo, and there was the National flag presentation by Skeeter and Ray Nay Wah. Rounding out the program were a cultural fashion show by the Leamington and Windsor Karen youth and a performance of the Bamboo Dance by the Windsor Karen Youth.
Following the closing with the Karen National Anthem, the banquet table provided many delightful tastes.
While feasting, those in attendance were entertained by singing accompanied by guitars and drums.
A most wonderful afternoon was enjoyed by all in celebrating the Karen New Year 2755.
OGVG increases funding to migrant worker program
For the past six years the Board of Directors of the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG) has approved an annual grant to the Migrant Worker Community Program (MWCP) for its programs and services. This year OGVG increased its funding by $5,000 for a total grant of $20,000.
OGVG was formed in 1967 as a not-for-profit organization representing over 200 members throughout Ontario who grow greenhouse tomatoes, cucumbers and bell peppers. The organization lobbies and conducts research on behalf of the Ontario greenhouse growers and promotes greenhouse vegetables at media and tradeshows. As part of its corporate responsibility efforts, OGVG provides financial support to MWCP on an annual basis so that it can achieve its goals of assisting the agricultural migrant workers integrate into the local communities while working in the Leamington, Kingsville and surrounding areas by organizing social, cultural, and recreational programs for them and festivals for the whole community.
MWCP programs include indoor soccer and basketball tournaments during the winter months, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations; health and information fairs; half-day bus trips to Summer Fest in Windsor and Point Pelee National Park; all-day trips to Canada’s Wonderland and Niagara Falls; participation in Mosaic – A Celebration of Cultures; Caribbean and Fiestas Patrias Independence Celebration festivals, and a baseball league in the summer.
MWCP services include providing Spanish speaking volunteers to accompany migrant workers to medical appointments; consular outreach and liaison services; free on-site bicycle safety programs; and Spanish courses to members of the community who are interested in bridging the language barriers between them and the workers.
At the Karen New Year 2755 celebration, Skeeter and Ray Nay Wah read a National Flag presentation.
Karen New Year 2755 festivities included the Bamboo Dance by Leamington and Windsor Karen youth. In Thailand, bamboo poles are traditionally used during the performance.
A buffalo horn was sounded to begin Karen New Year 2755 celebrations.
Family an integral part of 25 years of success
By Pat Bailey
Tool belt around her waist, she has been helping out at her father’s side since she was a mere seven years old. Today, at 31, Terri Michienzi is still at her dad’s side.
And for Joe Sleiman, 55, a former Leamington resident, that is definitely a source of immense pride.
Sleiman, the president of Ag-Tronic Control Systems Inc. and Accu-Label, is celebrating 25 years in the automation solutions business, and is proud to say his family has been an integral part of that success.
For Sleiman, the road to success began very humbly, in the basement of his rented Wheatley home. The St. Clair College electromechanical engineering tech grad, was determined to support his family in a field that he knew would always be there — agriculture.
“When people stop eating, let me know,” he joked.
With previous experience fixing farm equipment, Sleiman drew on that knowledge to instead design electronics that would aid his customers in harvesting crops and other problems they encountered to make life a little easier for the agricultural industry
So in January of 1991, Sleiman decided to take a chance and rely on the one person he knew would take his innovative ideas and turn them into reality – himself.
“I was flat broke,” he said, “and had a family to support, so I decided to take a chance.”
That decision has resulted in four expansions, as well as several awards for the man who thrives on finding solutions to the problems facing the agricultural industry
One turning point in his success, said Sleiman, came shortly after being honored with the 2000 Business Excellence Award in Leamington. While he was thrilled to be shown the respect and appreciation by his peers, Sleiman said he was offered a $1.2 million project the following day by a local labelling company.
Now located in Lakeshore, Sleiman has designed a control system for tomato harvesters to ease the wear and tear on the equipment, a grader that would measure the length, width and curvature of cucumbers, automatic packaging equipment and drastic improvements to labelling machines.
So in 2001 Sleiman expanded once again, adding Accu-Label in 2001.
With food safety a growing concern, Sleiman has come up with a paper label that is applied to each individual piece of produce at a fraction of the cost of just labelling each tray. And to Sleiman this is key, since the environmentally-friendly labels contain ‘trace code’, which allows them to identify each individual piece of fruit or vegetable should a problem develop.
He said being able to produce a paper label containing trace code “set them apart” from the others who use plastic. The father of four said in addition to the environment, paper is also safer should a child swallow one.
“This little Leamington guy is taking over the world,” laughed Sleiman, who now has patents on about 45 of his designs.
Equipment designed by Sleiman is being used from coast to coast in Canada and the United States, as well as in Mexico.
He admits it’s not always easy to solve the problems the agricultural industry is faced with, but admits he never met a challenge he didn’t like. While the solutions may not always come immediately, Sleiman has the patience needed to continue working at a viable solution.
In fact, he has spent up to seven years developing the technology necessary for a workable solution to a problem he has been presented with.
“The last thing I want to do is put something out there that is still in the test mode,” said the admitted perfectionist.
For Sleiman, it’s all about making the customer happy. He said 90 per cent of his business is by word of mouth, through customer referrals – the last thing he wants is an unhappy customer. “People see my machines working,” he said, “and I get the call.”
“It feels good to be respected and appreciated by my peers,” said Sleiman.
Another thing Sleiman prides himself on – it’s a family company.
With 20 employees, Sleiman said that includes his wife Samia (secretary/treasurer), daughter Terri, an engineer (project manager, mechanical designer) and several other members of his family, another source of pride for Sleiman is the fact it only includes two service technicians.
“That speaks volumes about our reliability,” he said.
While Sleiman is now reaping the rewards of his creative mind, coupled with his steadfast determination, he admits it wasn’t always easy.
But he said the payback has made the years of hardship worth it. While he admits he and his wife have probably fired each other twice, the family atmosphere has definitely made for a happy work environment.
Are you lookin g to u pgrade your p rofessional cre dentials?
Do you deal wi th bor der on a reg ular basi s?
Are you worki ng in the fi el d of inte rnati onal trade or bor der managemen t?
From basic understanding to complex application, gain insight and knowledge about how borders and international trade relate, while learning how to navigate the challenges of surrounding borders and beyond.
From left, Terri Michienzi (project manager), Joe Sleiman (president of Ag-Tronic Control Systems and Accu-Label) and Samia Sleiman (secretary/treasurer) inside their facility in Lakeshore.
in the in the in the in the in the
ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, it’s a good time to be thinking about family. Consider delving more deeply into your genealogy. Research your roots, and you may be surprised at what you discover.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
All that hard work you have been putting in will finally start to pay off, Taurus. It’s quite possible you will receive some good news soon. Don’t forget to go out and celebrate.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, major changes could be coming your way and they likely involve your home life. Get ready for a big move or some major renovations to your home.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
This week your thinking could be even sharper than ever. It’s a good time to make plans that affect your future, including those pertaining to education or employment.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
If you let your imagination take over, you just may find others are more receptive to this creative way of expressing yourself, Leo. Use every trick to your advantage.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, a recent project of yours could bring about some deserved recognition. It doesn’t matter if it is at work or home, being honored can feel good.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, if you feel inspired to express yourself in creative ways this week, go for it. Others may appreciate your sense of humor and may commend you for making them feel better.
ANSWERS ON PAGE 21
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, a new visitor or someone from your past may put you in touch with another who could make a difference in your life right now. Changes will spring up rapidly.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Your thoughts may shift to more positive horizons, and your resulting optimism will prove attractive to others. Spread good cheer to as many people as you can.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Listen closely during all conversations, Capricorn. You can always jot down notes later if you really need to remember something in particular. Paying attention this week is crucial.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, the hectic pace you have been keeping may be catching up with you. It will be difficult to keep this up for much longer, so start to pare down your responsibilities.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
You may receive a call, text or email today that turns your life in a new direction, Pisces. Just wait for all of those doors to open for you.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
JANUARY 24
Ed Helms, Actor (42)
JANUARY 25
Alicia Keys, Singer (35)
JANUARY 26
Wayne Gretzky, Athlete (55)
JANUARY 27
Rosamund Pike, Actress (37)
JANUARY 28
Sarah McLachlan, Singer (48)
JANUARY 29
Marc Gasol, Athlete (31)
JANUARY 30
Christian Bale, Actor (42)
Residence entered, three Leamington men arrested
Kingsville OPP received a call regarding a break and enter in progress on January 22 at approximately 2:15 p.m. on Malo Street in Kingsville.
Officers responded and learned that the homeowner was in the residence sleeping when two males entered the residence and proceeded to steal a television and computer before the homeowner woke up and scared the suspects out of the home.
The homeowner observed the two males, along with another male waiting in a blue minivan, leave the driveway travelling eastbound.
While Kingsville OPP were still investigating, Leamington OPP stopped a blue minivan containing three males matching the descriptors of the three involved in the break and enter in Kingsville. The property from the residence in Kingsville was found inside the vehicle.
Two of the males were arrested at the scene, and another male fled on foot and was arrested a short distance later.
A 21-year-old Leamington man and a 32-year-old Leamington man were both charged with: Break and Enter Dwelling House, Commit an Indictable Offence, and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000.
The third man, a 32-year-old also from Leamington, was held for a bail hearing. He was charged with: Break and Enter Dwelling House, Commit an Indictable Offence, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000, Obstruct Peace Officer, Fail to Comply with Recognizance, and Mischief Under $5,000.
Drivers arrested and charged for offenses
On Jan. 15 at approximately 7:20 a.m., Leamington OPP observed a grey Nissan travelling westbound on Oak St. E. at a high rate of speed. Officers pulled over the vehicle on Oak St. E. at Industrial Rd. Not only had the vehicle been speeding, it had also been weaving within its lane. The driver of the vehicle, a 46-year-old Leamington man, exhibited signs of impairment and was arrested at the scene. Leamington OPP received a complaint Jan. 23 at approximately 11:45 p.m. regarding a Volkswagen being driven erratically. Officers located the vehicle at the intersection of Cherry Lane and Bruce Ave. The driver, a 53-year-old Leamington man, exhibited signs of impairment, and was arrested and charged with impaired operation of a motor vehicle and exceeding 80 mg Blood Alcohol Contest.
Lakeshore OPP stopped a vehicle on Hwy 3 on Jan. 25 at about 2 a.m. for having a burned out headlight. The female driver of the vehicle exhibited signs of impairment. She was issued a Roadside Screening Demand, which she failed.
A 23-year-old Leamington woman was arrested at the scene and charged with exceeding 80 mg Blood Alcohol Content.
OBITUARY
Kaye Paterson
July 6, 1922 - January 21, 2016
Katherine June (Kaye) (nee MacDonald) Paterson, late of Franklin Gardens, Leamington, passed away Thursday, January 21, 2016.
Predeceased by her husband Neil A. Paterson (1993). Beloved daughter of John A. MacDonald (1965) and Angeline Beatrice Cameron (1980). Kaye will be sorely missed by Katherine Paterson of Toronto, Dr. Douglas Paterson (Margaret Cole) of Windsor, and Mary Paterson-Wever (ByronWever) of Florida. Mourned by her granddaughters Katie (David Kerrigan) of Ottawa and Paige Paterson of San Francisco, and her great-grandsons Noah and Jack Kerrigan. Remembered with love by her sister-in-law Joyce Paterson of Leamington, and as Aunt Kaye by our Paterson cousins.
The family wishes to acknowledge the special assistance of caregiver and friend Pauline McCracken, whose faithful attention provided our mother with personal comfort and companionship during her residence at Leamington Court and Franklin Gardens Long Term Care Home. Special thanks also go to former caregiver Patsy McLean, and more recently, RaeAnne Ingratta. The staff of Franklin Gardens who gave continuing care to our mother are gratefully appreciated and will always be remembered.
Private family arrangements only by Reid Funeral Home, Leamington.
Memorial donations may be made by cheque to Knox Presbyterian Church Leamington, 58 Erie Street South, Leamington, ON N8H 1S9.
Friends may send condolences or make a charitable contribution online at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Angry woman hits officer
Kingsville OPP pulled over a vehicle on Jan. 24 at approximately 2:30 p.m. near the intersection of Essex County Rd. 20 and Essex County Rd. 45 in Ruthven.
The female operator of the vehicle immediately began to argue with the officer and became enraged. She struck the officer while still in her vehicle and tried to drive away from him. He was able to remove the vehicle ignition keys and stop the vehicle from leaving.
A 39-year-old Leamington woman was arrested and charged with obstructing a peace officer and assaulting a peace officer.
OBITUARY
James Gubinczki
James Michael Gubinczki of St. Thomas, age 69, passed on Tuesday, January 19, 2016. Remembering him are his wife Charlene; his daughter Chantal (Jason) and their daughter Ella; his son Gregory (Hayley) and children Zoë, Ezekiel “Zeke”, Ayla. Son of Katie, brother to Rose and to Bob. For us, he is immortal as he has a soul and a spirit that is capable of compassion, sacrifice and endurance.
Jim worked not only as the Treasurer for Parks Canada, but also for the Town of Leamington, and the City of St. Thomas. He was Past President of AMCTO, skate sharpener extraordinaire and a Corvette enthusiast. Jim had many accomplishments but wishes only to be remembered “as a good husband, good father and proud papa.”
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Shawn Jackson Funeral Home 31 Elgin Street, St. Thomas (519-631-0570). Cremation has taken place. A private gathering will be held at a later date.
Donations to the Parkinson Society of Canada would be appreciated.
Personal condolences to the family can be made at www.shawnjacksonfuneralhome.com
treatment. Noreferralnecessary.
Latam going ‘Barefoot’ across Canada
By Bryan Jessop Leamington musician
Justin Latam is showing no signs of having ‘cold feet’ when it comes to focusing on national exposure for his newest album.
Shortly after the New Year arrived, Latam decided to mail 50 copies of his latest CD Barefoot to college radio stations across Canada in hopes of gaining coast-to-coast airtime.
The compilation of 10 new songs is arriving in each provincial capital as well as other large Canadian cities from Vancouver, BC to St. John, NB.
Barefoot was recorded over a five-day stretch at six hours per day and mixed at Sound Foundry Studios in Kingsville. It was officially launched on Oct. 4, 2015 at a CD Release Party hosted by Colio Winery in Harrow. The original-material album features Latam backed by a full band including Dale Butler on mandolin, Bennie Pallotto on drums, Ian Tate on bass and piano/ keyboards, Charles Diab on mandolin and electric guitar, John Moran on bass and Steve Morin on banjo and harmonica.
So far, the new CD has been introduced into the playlist of CHRW in London, CFMV in Hamilton and CJUM in Winnipeg. La-
tam explained that radio stations typically go through a lengthy review process before deciding to include new songs or albums into their programs. The idea to launch a cross-Canada radio campaign came about after Sound Foundry Studios producer Brett Humber gave Latam a copy of a book on self promotion for aspiring musicians.
“It’s the first time I’ve ever done something like this,” Latam said. “I want to take my music to the next level and thought a radio campaign would be a good way to do it. I think of it as going ‘Barefoot’ across Canada without leaving my hometown.”
Latam has had 500 copies of the new CD made, which can be purchased at any of his live performances or by contacting him online at www.facebook.com/ justinlatammusic. Barefoot
is his fifth offering, following Cowmunication, a selftitled solo acoustic album, a self-titled album with a full band and Faith Love Desire from 2012.
Latam has recently performed at Vernon’s Tap and Grill and Merlis’ Coffee House and Eatery in Kingsville as well as online at Chatham-Kent-based Radio CK. He has also been featured at the 96.7FM Indie Hour, AM800’s Here and Now, CJAM 99.1FM and CBC Music. Latam will also kick off the upcoming Homegrown Saturday series Saturday, Jan. 30 at the Wheatley Royal Canadian Legion Branch 324. The event will take place once per month with following dates depending on the availability of other local musicians.
This year, he will also be featured as the first weekly performer for the Two
Creeks Conservation Area’s Summer Concert Series.
The Wheatley-based venue will bring Latam to the stage Sunday, June 5. He will also appear on the cable show
The Write Stuff next month.
Latam began playing guitar at the age of nine and
added his voice as a vocalist during high school as a solution to his band’s search for a singer.
“It was something that started out of necessity,” said the 29-year-old. “From there, I just fell in love with it.”
Bret Michaels announced as headliner for Hogs for Hospice
Organizers of the first ever Hogs For Hospice and health care motorcycle rally, planned for July 2931 in Leamington, have announced the headliner for the Saturday night feature concert - Bret Michaels!
Vendors will be lined up at Seacliff Park on Friday night. The ride will be held on Saturday, with participants tourning Essex County and returning to Seacliff Park for the evening entertainment.
The ride is in support of the newly built WindsorEssex Hospice, Erie Shores Campus in Leamington and the LDMH Foundation. Hogs for Hospice is a community event that will engage even the most curious. The committee de-
scribes the weekend as being “filled with events and activities that will attract enthusiasts and residents. Tour the Tip, experience our Southern Hospitality, buy some Hogs for Hospice merchandise or connect with our local establishments and vendors and support us any way you can! More than anything, we want you to have a great experience, and by doing so provide for something so needed and necessary in our community.” For more info go to www. hogsforhospice.com.
Topics: nutrition, child development, discipline, safety, health & wellness. Prizes & giveaways. Free childcare provided. For more info or to register call Nicole at 519-258-6002 ext. 503.
CANADIAN TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM AND HERITAGE VILLAGE (CTMHV) ON THE ARNER TOWN LINE IS IN NEED OF VOLUNTEERS to help with kids programs such as 'Pioneer for a Day', special events, shows, meetings, or in the museum, log cabins and period buildings, etc. If you have a few hours to spare and would like to help out, contact Judy Anderson, Education and Volunteer Coordinator at CTMHV, 519-776-6909 or email education@ctmhv.com
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
UPCOMING SOUTH ESSEX
EVENTS: Build Information Sessions - Monday, January 25, 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. Donation and Volunter Drive - Saturday, February 13, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. South Essex Restore Grand Opning - Saturday, March 5, 10:00 a.m. All events occur at Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex’s newest location: 1 Iroquois Road, Unit #2, Leamington. For more information please call 226-345-2488.
SUN COUNTY LYME AWARENESS SUPPORT GROUP MEETS Wednesday, January 27 , 6:30 p.m., in the Cactus Room at Colasanti's Tropical Gardens. Concerned about Lyme? All are welcome to learn, share and support.
PELEE PAST QUESTERS (PPQ) MEET Thursday, January 28, 7:00 p.m., at WFCU, 318 Erie St. S., Leamington. Speaker: Jackie King. Topic: "The Other Type of Iron". All are welcome to come and see how easy we have it nowadays. PPQ is an organization for the study of antiques, preservation and restoration of artifacts, existing memorials, historical buildings, landmarks and education. Info: Jackie 519-326-1361.
ARE YOU REGISTERING YOUR CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS FOR KINDERGARTEN? Parents can speak with other families and professionals about the school experience at the free ‘School Entry Event’. Wednesday, February 3 from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. at ACCESS in Kingsville. Childcare available. Contact Windsor Essex Family Network to register 519974-1008.
LEAMINGTON BLOOD DONOR
CLINIC - First Wednesday of every month. Next clinic is Wednesday, February 3, 12:30 - 7:00 p.m. at the Leamington Kinsmen and Recreation Centre, 249 Sherk St. Walk-ins welcome or phone 1-
888-236-6283 to book an appointment.
ONT. PURPLE MARTIN ASSOC. will hold it's first meeting of the 2016 season on Saturday, February 20, 9:00 a.m., at The Gleaners building, Industrial Drive (off Oak St. W.), in Leamington. Discussion includes information on the spring arrival of purple martins and attracting these amazing birds to your home. The public is welcome. Call Paul 519-738-3476 for more info.
MONDAYS - SENIORS DROP-IN, 1st and last Monday of the month only at 10:30 a.m. at Leamington United Church. Guest speakers, refreshments, games, exercise. It's free, fun, and wheelchair accessible. All seniors welcome. ARE YOU AFFECTED BY SOMEONE ELSE'S DRINKING? The Wheatley Serenity Al-Anon Family Group meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the Wheatley Friendship Club (north entrance), 171 Erie St. N. 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 SECC519-326-8629 ext.381. www.secc.on.ca.
Justin Latam
Soli Deo Gloria Singers to perform first ever
choral concert at Bank Theatre
The choral experience as seen through the lens of singers and conductor. Special to the Southpoint Sun By
Barb Martens
What makes a person willing to commit to the hard work of learning new music, weekly choir practices, and homework for months on end, for just one or two performances? Or to the even harder work of conducting, which involves finding a variety of music for each season, teaching basics, and then coaxing singers in refining and polishing the work so that it shines? How do they feel about the music? Let’s find out.
We’ll start with one of Soli Deo Gloria Singers’ youngest choir members. Olivia is a grade 12 student who happens to be seated next to me at rehearsal. It’s evident to me that she reads music well, and has a good voice. Achieving Grade 6 piano explains this in part. Here is what she said: “My choir teacher at UMEI, Wes Shuttleworth, asked me to join the Soli Deo Gloria Singers last year. At this time I was not a super strong singer but enjoyed singing very much. I wanted to become a better singer, and sing in an experienced choir, so I took him up on his offer. I think the best thing about singing in this choir is that we have the ability to try complex and unique songs that not every choir can pull off. This variety of music makes our concerts much more enjoyable to not only sing, but also to listen to.”
And how about Ken Wiens, musician and songwriter? He loves words too, as you can tell from his response: “I listen to, love, appreciate, have played and performed many styles and genres of music. All of it touches me to the core in one form or another to a greater or lesser extent. I love music. My earliest memories are musical. In the group SDG, I enjoy learning the songs and being part of the collection of voices that will produce the beauty of the performance sound. It’s hard work. I am committed to that work for the privilege of being able to contribute to that sound. That privilege requires that I be a contribution to the very best of my ability. The performance.... When I catch a glimpse of someone with their eyes closed and obviously caught up in the serene beauty of a song or a person who simply can’t help moving to the rhythm of a syncopated beat, or someone that has become wide-eyed by a particular crescendo, I am filled with joy to be a part of bringing that experience to that person.”
Now, from one of the choral conductors, Nancy Dyck. She started conducting the choir is 2007 when the family moved here from Edmonton: “Over the years I have worked with choirs ranging in age from children to seniors, in schools and in church choirs – singers of many different abilities. SDGS are the most skilled and experienced singers I have had the privilege to conduct and that makes it a lot of fun! Musically I like to stretch myself and keep growing, and working with experienced singers and challenging music allows me this opportunity. I want to keep learning more about choral repertoire, how to get the best sounds from choirs, how to challenge the singers to keep growing, how to teach and conduct in a way that helps the singers to perform in the most musical way so that it can touch the audience.”
Working with adults, some who are retirement age, during choir rehearsal and then working with children from birth to age 6 in her studio is a unique situation. Here is Nancy’s com-
ment on that: “Monday nights I work with a skilled group of adult singers and over and over we practice the beat. ‘Basses, you are lagging behind. Sopranos, don’t speed aheadfollow my beat. Watch my conducting as we change from 6/8 to 4/4 to 3/4.’ And then Tuesday mornings I sit on the floor with the babies, toddlers and nursery age children and we ‘keep the heartbeats’ as we listen to music on the stereo. I see the full spectrum of music development!”
Invariably, there is one piece of music that stands out from the rest for a variety of reasons. Brenda Fischer, who has sung with the choir for 12 years, muses: “It’s always interesting how you can pick out your favourite songs and you can define the ones you don’t particularly like; however, by the end of the practice sessions you’ve settled into an appreciation of the music for the diversity it offers. But one piece really stands out for me. In ‘Lux Aurumque’, contemporary composer Eric Whitacre introduces clashing sounds in long tones so that they mesh together. It’s the kind of music whereby you sit back, close your eyes and meditate on the beautiful sound. It’s reflective of a chant where the tight harmonies need to be carefully tuned and in this case the sounds balance out to form gold!”
For conductor Nancy Dyck, it is ‘I am the Great Sun’: “It affected me because it is such a compelling text, which really causes me to think more deeply about its meaning for me personally. And then to see how the composer set it using short melodic motives to highlight the text – wonderful rich harmonies, changes in the meter... lots of musical interest. The text and melodies continue to roll around in my mind again and again, which helps me to ponder the meaning of the text.” The song itself has an unusual history. The words were found inscribed on a Norman crucifix from 1632. Surprisingly, as we sung them we found them as relevant now as they were 400 years ago !
So you can see there is a lot to look forward to when you attend this historic concert! Mark the date on your calendar. The concert is at The Bank Theatre on Sunday, January 31 at 3 p.m. Tickets are available at Thomson Guardian Drugs and Wharram’s Jewellery.
Speeders charged with stunt driving
On Jan. 20 at approximately 10:10 a.m., Leamington OPP stopped a speeding black Jeep on Road 2. The officer was conducting stationary radar patrols and clocked the Jeep travelling 62 kilometres over the posted speed limit. Investigation revealed the driver was in breach of conditions from a previous criminal charge, as well as breaching a previous sentence order. The 22-year-old Leamington man was charged with Stunt Driving. His driver’s licence was suspended for 7 days and his vehicle was impounded. He was arrested and held for a bail hearing for breaching his recognizance and his conditional sentence order.
On Jan. 21 at approximately 3:10 a.m., Leamington OPP stopped a speeding black BMW headed westbound on Hwy 3. The officer was conducting radar patrol on Hwy 3 and clocked the vehicle travelling 66 kilometres faster than the posted speed limit. The driver, a 32 yearold Chatham man, was charged with Stunt Driving contrary to the Highway Traffic Act. His driver’s license was suspended for 7 days and his vehicle impounded. He will appear in a Leamington court in February.
Also on Jan. 21 at approximately 1:20 p.m., a Leamington OPP officer conducting radar enforcement on Essex Rd. 33 near Talbot Rd. E. stopped a black Audi travelling at an excessive rate of speed. The driver, a 38-year-old London man, was clocked travelling 67 kilometers faster than the posted speed limit. He was charged with Stunt Driving, contrary to the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario. His driver’s licence was suspended and his vehicle impounded. He will also appear in a Leamington court in February.
BANK THEATRE NOTES
10 ERIE STREET SOUTH P.O. BOX 434
LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3W5 519-326-8805
DALE'S LAST FRIDAY COFFEE HOUSE FRIDAY, JANUARY 29TH
DOORS OPEN@ 6:30, MUSIC STARTS@ 7:00 PM Your hosts will be David and Sharon Light.
THE SOLI DEO GLORIA SINGERS
SUNDAY, JANUARY 31ST @ 3:00 PM
We are pleased to announce the first choral concert to be held at The Bank Theatre featuring local choir 'The Soli Deo Gloria Singers'. This is a benefit concert for The Bank Theatre. Tickets are $15 for Adults, $10 for Students and are available at Thomson Guardian Pharmacy and Wharram's Jewellery.
AUDITION CALL
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6TH @ 2:00 PM
We are bringing back, by popular demand, THE FARM SHOW. Production run is late May and early June. We require 3 or 4 females and 3 or 4 males. All ages. Actors will play multiple roles. Some group singing. Auditions are being held Saturday, February 6, at 2:00 pm, at the Bank Theatre, 10 Erie Street South, Leamington. Please enter through the back stage door. Bring a short prepared reading (2 minutes). Our Director is Rick Taves. Call him at 519-324-6988 or email at rftaves@gmail.com for more information.
SHIRLEY VALENTINE
FEBRUARY 11, 12, 13, & 14
The Bank Theatre's highly successful production of SHIRLEY VALENTINE will be on stage at The Olde Walkerville Theatre, 1564 Wyandotte St. E., Windsor. Times and ticket information to follow.
FISH AND BIRD
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH @ 8:00 PM
The Bank Theatre in partnership with the Kingsville Folk Festival is proud to present the band Fish and Bird. Main Stage favourites from the 2014 Kingsville Folk Festival they are returning to Essex County with their incredible songwriting, harmonies and musicianship. This young Canadian band provides a fresh re-imagining of folk music for generations old and new. Tickets are $20 (fees may apply) and may be purchased by phone 1-800-838-3006 or online at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2473610. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the performance begins at 8:00 p.m.
Conservation award winners recognized
The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) recognized organizations and individuals that have made significant contributions to the region’s sustainability with 2015 Conservation Awards at its Annual General Meeting on January 21.
“It is inspiring to learn more about the many in the Windsor-Essex region who work vigilantly at creating a healthier environment,” said ERCA chair Ed Sleiman.
Award winners included Conservation Farmers Don and Neal Huber of Harrow for their dedication to environmentally sustainable farm practices.
The Lac Ste. Claire Voyageurs received the John R. Park Homestead Award for outstanding contributions to the preservation and interpretation of human and natural history in the Essex Region.
Carlos Pena, President of the Leamington District Secondary School (LDSS) Eco-Team, received the Youth Conservation Award.
Conservation Awards for Education were presented to teacher Lisa Jeffery who has been a longstanding inspiration to the very active and engaged students at LDSS and a community advocate, and to the General Amherst EcoTeam for their work in engaging the student population.
Dr. Tony Braithwaite, a veterinarian who has volunteered significantly to protect endangered snake species in the region, and the Little River Enhancement Group, which this year celebrates 25 years of protecting and restoring the Little River watershed, were recognized for their volunteer contributions.
Mario Sonego received the Conservation Award for Environmental Achievement. Recently retired from the City of Windsor following a career that spanned three decades, he consistently went above and beyond that which was required to ensure that the many legacy projects he led as the Chief Building Official and City of Windsor engineer were undertaken with the highest regard for environmental sustainability.
Devonshire Mall was also recognized for Environmental Achievement for implementing a culture of conservation throughout the shopping complex, and undertaking education and outreach to inform and engage over 7 million visitors per years of their environmental efforts.
The Robert Pulleyblank Award for Municipal Environmental Achievement was presented to the Municipality of Leamington, which has created trails, protected waterfront land, undertaken tree planting, partnered to create a rain garden and is committed to helping improve Lake Erie.
A special Conservation Award was presented to the Rt. Honorable Herb Gray Parkway project, which is precedent setting in its project scope, complex issues that required consideration, and the creative solutions that were implemented to ensure that this massive project benefited the overall environmental sustainability of our region.
Bill Tate, ERCA’s Superintendent of Field Operations, received the Dennis Chase Staff Award for dedication and commitment, kindness to colleagues and pride in a job well done.
The Authority also reviewed the many projects and programs undertaken in 2015. “We increased our focus on water quality projects, particularly in the western basin of Lake Erie, planted 125,450 trees, restored over 142 acres of habitat, created 4 new wetlands and worked with over 2,500 volunteers in the past year,” Sleiman added.
Details on all of the award winners’ accomplishments and ERCA’s 2015 Annual Report and video can be found at www.erca.org/agm
The Essex Region Conservation Authority’s (ERCA) 2015 Conservation Award winners were announced at the Annual General Meeting on Jan. 21. Conservation Award winners include (from left) Ed Sleiman, Mario Sonego, General Amherst Ecoteam including Anna Simone, Emily Sinasac and teacher Eric Campbell, Darrel Lauzon of Devonshire Mall, Carlo Pena, Neal Huber, Lisa Jeffery, Leamington mayor John Paterson representing the Municipality of Leamington, Bill Tate, Joel Foster and Barb Macdonnell representing the Rt. Honorable Herb Gray Parkway project, Tom Henderson and Ian Naisbitt of the Little River Enhancement Group, Lac Ste. Clair Voyageurs Jerry Smith and Fritz Langpeter, and Dr. Tony Braithwaite.
Cougars basketball team bring home bronze
The Leamington Cougars basketball team competed in a tournament in London on January 16-17.
On Saturday morning the Cougars’ first game was against Peterborough. The team struggled a little during the first three quarters and were behind until the fourth quarter when they played hard as a team and pulled through with a 46-43 victory.
Their second game was against East Elgin, a very strong team that the Cougars battled to the end. Unfortunately they suffered a 39-23 loss.
Sunday morning the team arrived in London, ready to take on the locals. The game started slowly but it didn’t take the Cougars long to warm up and gain the lead in the second quarter. They maintained the lead and won the game 36-30.
The Cougars placed second in their division with a record of two wins and one loss. This moved them on to play for third place and the bronze medal.
Sunday afternoon’s bronze medal game was by far the most exciting game the team played. The Cougars faced Stratford. Teamwork was the name of the game. The team had great passes, great steals and they carried the ball down the
court with confidence. Everyone on the team made at least one basket.
The Cougars took the lead very early in the game and held on to it. Their 49-19 win gave them the bronze medal and third place in the tournament.
The Leamington Cougars basketball team won bronze in a tournament in London Jan. 16-17. Team members, front row, left to right: Micah Egglezos, Alex Castellano, Noah White, Leo Cabrera. Back row: Coach George Egglezos, Lekan Mustapha, Markus Youssef, Keenan Nabil, Ben Brimner, Justin Wiebe, Eric Dominguez, Coach Joe Youssef.
(Submitted photo)
A test of loyalty
I’m not exactly what you’d call the most well-traveled person.
The farthest west I’ve ever ventured is Winnipeg. The farthest north — Quebec City. The farthest east was Port Bickerton, N.S. and the farthest south was Sandusky, Ohio (Cedar Point). Despite my less than nomadic tendencies, one of my favourite commercials of recent memory was for a travel agency. It brought to life a term we’ve all used from time to time — “thanks, Captain Obvious.”
If Captain Obvious had an online home, it would probably be Facebook. I wish I had a nickel for every time somebody shared the all-enlightening advice that we shouldn’t hang around with people who tend to bring us down at every opportunity. Thanks for that little snippet of wisdom, nobody else would have thought of that on their own.
More recently, someone shared the comment “those Canadiens fans don’t say a whole lot when their team is playing like crap” — or words to that affect. Really? I wonder how many fans of other professional franchises natter on and on about how great that team is when they can’t win to save their lives.
Thanks, Captain Obvious.
The best way to find out what kind of fan someone is, is when their team is playing like garbage and losing as if it were going out of style. The bandwagoner of course will start going on and on about how their real favourite team is (insert the name of the league’s current overall points leader here), and actually has been for the past several years.
What is perhaps the most admirable yet most annoying type of supporter is the defender. This fan will make up one excuse after another as to why their team is in a slump — the officials have it in for them, the coach doesn’t know what he’s doing, it’s a locker room chemistry thing, bad luck, free agency, untimely injuries, it’s a rebuilding year, trades that just didn’t pan out, etc., etc. These individuals also tend to double as the “wait till next year!” or the “there’s always next season” types.
Then of course there is the fan who continues to support his or her team yet at the same time is all too eager to criticize and bash them for every recurring flaw. Admittedly, I am one of these. I don’t offer any excuses for the Habs. They’re playing like garbage and they’ve been taking to the ice with next to zero enthusiasm. If the ground seems unstable in certain parts of La Belle Province, that’d be Richard, Beliveau et al rolling in their graves.
As a sport fan, I don’t ever recall watching any team in
TRACY MORGAN: PICKING UP THE PIECES Saturday, February 6
BILL ENGVALL
Saturday, February 20
MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL
Friday, February 26
MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL
Saturday, February 27 4pm & 9pm
BURTON CUMMINGS AND BAND
Friday, March 4
DAVID SPADE
Friday, March 11
JOHNNY REID
WHAT LOVE IS ALL ABOUT Saturday, March 19
BRYAN JESSOP
any sport go from league leader to conference leader to division leader to snowball’s chance in hell of grabbing a wild card spot in such a short amount of time. In most cases where the mighty have fallen, the descent between the very top and rock bottom includes a gradual descent before the big crash. Nope, Les Canadiens have been more like Wylie E. Coyote when he forgets to take that turn along the winding mountain road while chasing the Roadrunner — hovering motionless for a brief second before looking down and then plummeting straight to the unforgiving rocky terrain below.
Jessop’s Journal
No, I’m actually not optimistic about things turning around when Carey Price is back between the pipes (whenever that happens to be). For one, he’s not much of a goal scorer. Secondly, the Habs were still doing okay between his first and second injury.
Having a coach that openly and publicly criticizes his players probably isn’t helping. Remember the good ol’ days when the only time a pro sports coach would rip a strip off one of his players was during practice when nobody was watching or in the locker room? Maybe behind the bench following a particularly bad shift?
At times, I wish I had been born 20 years earlier. No, not just because Montreal was still winning Cups back then, but because back in the day, NHL players knew and appreciated what it meant to wear the big C and H on their shirts. I watched the Montreal/Toronto game over the weekend and it was kind of depressing. The mere sight of one another once infuriated both teams to the point of uncontrollable rage. It was what rivalries were all about. While I’m not an advocate for violence in sports, it was at the same time disheartening to see “closing hand on the puck” and “delay of game” make up one third of the combined penalties. It kind of felt like watching a Colorado/Tampa Bay game. Speaking of fans, it seems they’re/we’re the only ones getting fired up about Habs vs. Leafs games now.
Anyway, on a statistical basis, Montreal is now playing its worst hockey in 75 years. Never thought I’d see that a couple short months after its best start ever. To add insult to injury, the two Florida teams are 1-2 in the division. On the other side of the continent, California teams are 1-2 in the Pacific.
Maybe the circus that is the upcoming All Star Game (John Scott will play after all) won’t be such a bad thing.
ARETHA FRANKLIN PERFORMING THE HITS AND THE GREAT DIVA CLASSICS! Saturday, February 13
PAUL ZERDIN 2015 AMERICA’S GOT TALENT WINNER Saturday, March 26
BILL BURR
Friday, April 1
FOREIGNER Thursday, April 7
RON JAMES
Friday, April 15
Tickets on sale January 30!
SANTANA LUMINOSITY TOUR 2016 Saturday, April 23
Tickets on sale now!
Could be the sort of comic relief that Canadians fans could really use. The only solace I could find over the past weekend (beating the Leafs is enjoyable, but the sense of satisfaction is compromised when it takes a shootout) was in football. A Tom Brady-less Super Bowl 50 will be a breath of fresh air. I don’t care what kind of fan you care, it’s comforting to see that cheaters (that’s a knock at the Patriots as a whole, not just Brady) don’t ALWAYS prosper.
Sun Stars end regular season
The Southpoint Sun Midget BB Stars had a busy weekend with games Friday, Saturday and Sunday. They opened Friday night hosting the Windsor Wildcats, and on the second shift of the game Claire Phibbs buried a rebound to open the scoring and give the Stars a 1-0 lead. Lauryn Gradwell and Emily Hyatt assisted on Claire’s goal. With time winding down in the first period, Bryanna Rodrigues beat the Wildcats goaltender high over the blocker to put the Stars up 2-0. Bailey Brown and Kiera Murracas assisted on Bryana’s goal. The Stars would shut the Wildcats down all game and take this one 2-0. Alyee Church recorded the shutout in net for the Stars.
On Saturday afternoon in Wheatley the Stars hosted the London Devilettes with first place on the line. It was a great back and forth battle that produced only one goal by the Stars, but that was enough to win this one and give the Stars a share of first place with the Devilettes. With time winding down in the second period and the Stars on the power play, Sarah Schincariol fired a rebound past the Devilette goaltender and put the Stars in front for good. Abbey Hopper and Kennedy Hodgson recorded the assists on Sarah’s goal. Another great defensive effort by the Stars with Natalie Edmondson earning the shutout win.
On Sunday the Stars travelled to Ingersoll to play the Ice. Another back and forth defensive battle with no scoring through two periods. Early in the third and shorthanded, Kennedy Hodgson scored unassisted for the Stars to give them a 1-0 lead. The Stars were buzzing the net all game but couldn’t manage to get more than one past the Ice goaltender. Midway through the third the Ice would score two goals within a minute and take a 2-1 lead. The Stars fought hard to the final buzzer, but the game ended in a 2-1 defeat.
That’s the end of the regular season for the Stars who finish with a 10-7-5 record and now they await a playoff opponent while the league standings are determined next weekend. Go Stars Go!
Kinsmen Stars win
4-1
The Leamington Kinsmen Southpoint Intermediate Stars played host to the Lakeshore Lightning on Sunday afternoon on the Highbury Rink. With their regular goalie out with a concussion, the Lady Stars called up Caitlin Preston to defend the pipes in this contest.
Kim Goyeau once again paced the offensive attack with a hat trick and Abby Gualtieri netted a single power play goal en route to a 4-1 win. Kayla Collison scored the lone assist in this game.
Caitlin Preston was absolutely solid between the pipes as she made several key saves throughout this game and held the Lightning to just a single goal.
Bailey Atom girls face Lakeshore
Southpoint Bailey Machining Atom girls faced first place Lakeshore Lightning Blue this past weekend. The girls worked hard and fought till the bitter end. The game was scoreless until the third period. Abbey Mazzella scored for Bailey’s but it wasn’t enough to take the win. Lakeshore scored a lucky goal off the faceoff where it bounced in over goalie Evan Gualtieri’s pad to take the win. Bailey’s lost 2-1.
UMEI
an elementary school basketball tournament Monday, Jan. 18 for Grade 7 and 8 girls as part of its recreation and leadership program. One of the two
to
12-2 and 16-4 at the quarters before posting a 24-6 victory.
UMEI hosts basketball tourney
By Bryan Jessop
Local elementary school athletes are making the most of UMEI’s gymnasium.
After hosting a badminton tournament in April and a volleyball competition in November of last year, the local high school’s recreation and leadership class welcomed Grade 7 and 8 girls from four local elementary schools for a one-day basketball tournament. Teams representing Comber Centennial Central Public School, Margaret D. Bennie Public School, Queen Elizabeth Public School and Wheatley Area Public School met at the UMEI gym where the playing surface was split to allow two games to take place simultaneously
Students of the new course organized and ran the tournament along with assistance from staff members including athletic director Darcy Bults and admissions director Chrissy Kelton. Students at UMEI devised schedules, operated food and beverage concessions and officiated games for the one-day event.
“Recreation and Leadership is absolutely one of the most exciting classes I have ever taken,” explained UMEI recreation and leadership Grade 11 student Carly Brissette. “Throughout the course, we have been able to do really fun activities like curling and bubble soccer in addition to organizing and executing grade school sport tournaments. This class has taught me not only how to lead but how to be a team player.”
The recent basketball tournament pitted the Comber Cougars against the Margaret D. Bennie Bulldogs for the championship final and the Queen Elizabeth Knights against the Wheatley Warriors in the consolation match. The Cougars won the championship title while Wheatley came out on top to earn the win in the consolation game.
Students at the high school got a taste of what was then the soon-to-be-introduced recreation and leadership course in early April of last year with a four-school, two-day badminton tourney. November’s volleyball competition brought in teams from six local schools.
Wheatley Area Public School has participated in all three UMEI-hosted events while the basketball tournament was the second for Comber and Margaret D. Bennie and the first for Queen Elizabeth.
The same class will again host an elementary school badminton tournament during the upcoming spring.
“The recreation and leadership course at UMEI has offered me a new perspective on things in my life,” said Grade 11 UMEI student Josh Isley. “In this class we are asked to challenge ourselves and our current way of thinking. Since there is a great amount of diversity within the class, everyone has a different opinion on things. This is an awesome thing to have within the classroom because it allows me to see the other side of things and remain optimistic in and out of the classroom.”
WFCU Stars post two shutouts
The WFCU Southpoint Intermediate Stars played a home and home weekend playoff series against the Windsor Wildcats and posted 2-0 shutout victories in both. Erica “The Wall” Taylor posted both shutouts in net for the Lady Stars. Connie Wiebe and Jill Iles scored for the Lady Stars, with Wiebe also scoring a big assist.
The WFCU Stars travelled to Windsor to tangle with another Wildcat team that has yet to lose a single game this season. In this tough matchup the Lady Stars battled hard and played great throughout the game, but in the end lost a close one by a score of 4-2. However, this was a special game that saw Camryn Iversen score her first goal ever in her hockey career as she was set up with some amazing passes from Tatum Davison and Jill Iles. The other Stars’ goal was scored by Jill “Snipes” Iles with Kate Derbyshire notching the assist.
Rhine Danube bowling scores
The following are the Rhine Danube bowling league scores for Jan. 11.
Games Over 200: Kevin Kosempel 219, Heinz Kosempel 201, Chris Kosempel 221-217, Willy Fittler 208-202, Aaron Dickau 207-218, William Dufour 232, Eric Zimmer 254-208.
Series Over 550: Chris Kosempel 617, Willy Fittler 592, Aaron Dickau 619, William Dufour 592, Eric Zimmer 655.
High Handicap Games: Bob Barnet 276, Eric Zimmer 267, Chris Brennan 262.
High Handicap Series: Nick Levchuck 749, Willy Fittler 739, John Paliwoda 725.
Standings: Fittler Farms 14, Weil’s Food 12, Dickau Construction 12, Taki’s 11, Del Fresco 7, Rhine Danube 7.
Trophy Peewee girls defeat A’burg
The Southpoint Community Trophy Peewee girls put together a solid effort for three periods and it paid off in a win against Amherstburg.
At the 4-minute mark of the first period, Ava Hildebrandt sent the puck from the corner to Alexa Taylor who was standing in front of the Amherstburg net. A wild scramble ensued and Alexa managed to get the puck over to Kaitlynn Pickard standing by the corner of the net. Kaitlynn shovelled the puck in and Southpoint was on the board. One minute later, Brienna Tiessen sent the puck to the net from the point and Alyssa Lamb put it away.
Midway through the second period, Southpoint goalie Courtney Jeffery made a stop on a long shot and Alexa Taylor picked up the puck. She skated behind her net and out of her end past several Amherstburg players. She made a beautiful move around the last defender, and skating in on the right side of the net fired the puck over the goalie’s right shoulder.
The game ended with Southpoint winning 3-0. Courtney had an assist and a shutout. The team spent a fair amount of time in the Amherstburg end and put quite a few shots on net.
hosted
games
kick off the tournament took place between the Queen Elizabeth Knights and Marget D. Bennie Bulldogs. The Bulldogs led 6-0,
Salter of the Cougars spikes the ball toward the Catholic Central half of the court during a WECSSAA Tier II senior girls volleyball match at Cardinal Carter Thursday, Jan. 21. The Cougars lost the first set 30-28, the second set 25-16 and salvaged a point by winning the third set 25-22. Two days earlier, Cardinal Carter swept Kennedy with scores of 25-11, 25-14 and 25-9. Their regular season concluded with a match record of 3-7 and a set record of 11-19. A playoff schedule had not been made available by press deadline.
the
a
II junior girls volleyball match at Cardinal Carter Tuesday, Jan. 19. The Cougars won the first set 25-12, made a comeback to take the second set 26-24 and then swept the match with a 25-12 victory in the third. On the following Thursday, the Cougars defeated Catholic Central with scores of 25-20 and 25-10 before losing the third set 25-17. Cardinal Carter’s regular season ended with a match record of 7-2 and a set record of 20-7 for 34 points, good for second place in the division. A playoff schedule had not been made available by press deadline.
Local gymnast competes in Oshawa
Leamington’s Larisa Pelling was one of several athletes with Rose City Gymnastics that competed in Oshawa this past weekend.
The competition was the third provincial qualifier for the Rose City gymnasts in preparation for the Ontario Championships to be held in Mississauga in April.
Larisa competed in the 10-year-old age group, Level 6. Here are her results: Vault 9.2, Vault Place 2; Bars 8.925, Bars Place 7; Beam 8.2, Beam Place 14; Floor 9.125, Floor Place 5; All Round 35.45, All Round Place 7.
MONDAY-
Monitha Leng of the Lions goes airborne as she spikes the ball toward the Harrow half of the court during a WECSSAA Tier II senior girls volleyball match at LDSS Thursday, Jan. 21. Leamington swept the three sets with scores of 25-10, 25-22 and 25-17. Two days earlier, LDSS was swept in Walkerville with scores of 25-18, 25-16 and 25-19. Their regular season ended Monday, Jan. 25 in Kennedy, where they won in finals of 25-23, 25-17 and 25-18. The Lions’ final regular season match record stands at 5-5 with a set record of 14-16 for 24 points. A playoff schedule was not made available by press deadline.
Leamington Br. 84 Legion news
By Pat Simpson
Come on out and enjoy Super Bowl Sunday with your comrades at Leamington Legion, Feb. 7, starting at 1 p.m. All are welcome.
Please note that the General Meeting will be held Wednesday, Feb. 3 at 7 p.m. All members should plan on attending, as discussion will include the future of Branch 84.
The Seniors Dinner in February will be held Wednesday the 10th. The meal will be pork roast with all the trimmings. Everyone welcome to enjoy a great meal and entertainment.
Zone Junior Darts will be held at Branch 84 on Saturday, Feb. 20. Come on out and support the kids.
Chelsea
Alexia Resendes of
Cougars ducks to avoid being struck by a ball bumped by teammate Megann Gillett during
WECSSAA Tier
Sharks nip Flags
By Bryan Jessop
With playoffs drawing closer, the Wheatley Sharks bear little resemblance to a team that was recently just hoping to finish seventh.
The Sharks won their sixth consecutive game Monday, Jan. 25 in a 1-0 nail biter against the Mooretown Flags, bringing their record to 18-16-2-2.
The Jan. 25 game was preceded by the traditional graduating-age ceremony for the three Sharks playing their final season of junior hockey — forwards Brett Bowman and Lucas Raffoul and defenseman Brian Johnson. Each was presented with a copy of his jersey by director of hockey operations Brad Hyatt. Graduating-age players were greeted on the ice near the Sharks bench by their parents.
The Flags spent most of the first period buzzing around the Wheatley net, generating several close calls for the Sharks defense.
Goalkeeper Eric Morneau however did more than his part to keep the opening 20 minutes scoreless, including a quick succession of near-impossible stops as the clock ticked down to the three-minute mark. Mooretown outshot their hosts 11-6 at the first buzzer.
The guest team’s offense continued to apply heavy pressure in the second frame, although the Sharks showed more composure than in the first. Morneau continued to stand his ground between the pipes, helping his team kill penalties and keep rebounds beyond the reach of Mooretown forwards.
Wheatley opened the scoring while shorthanded on a play that started with
a short two-on-two rush.
Bowman sent the puck to the crease from the left of the net, where Mitchell Prudence went from the backhand to forehand before flipping the puck from close range under the crossbar while being tangled up by a Flags’ defender.
The Sharks’ forwards put heavy pressure on goalie Nolan Hakr late in the second, narrowly missing out on chances to widen their one-goal lead in the period’s dying seconds. Mooretown established a 15-11 shots on net advantage.
The third period was the most evenly matched, where the Flags outshot their hosts by a slim 6-5 margin. Neither team managed to solve the opposition’s impressive goaltending display through the final 20 minutes, allowing the Sharks to preserve their second 1-0 shutout in the past five games. Mooretown outshot the Sharks 3322 while being held to zero for eight on the power play. Wheatley went zero for one.
“We’ve played a lot of hockey in the last week and fatigue has definitely settled in on us,” said Sharks head coach Dave Wiper. “They outplayed us, but we had great goaltending and our compete level was higher. When you play hard and compete, the bounces go your way.”
Following the game, Bowman admitted that he didn’t think his last regular season home ice assist would stand as the pass that supported the game-winning goal.
“I thought we were going to have a shootout,” he explained. “It felt good, es-
pecially when the one who scored was another Wheatleyite. It was a big win for us.”
The sixth consecutive win allowed the Sharks to join Mooretown and Lakeshore in the race for fifth. All three teams had two games remaining as of Tuesday morning — the Canadiens with 43 points, the Flags with 42 and Wheatley with 40.
“For a while, I was worried about having to play one of the top two teams (in the first round of playoffs),” Bowman said. “Now I don’t care who we play.”
Following a 3-1 win against the Blenheim Blades from Jan. 18, Wheatley made it four wins in a row with a 4-1 victory against the Blades two days later. The Sharks made it five straight for the first time this season with a come-frombehind victory against the Flyers in Alvinston Friday, Jan. 22. The streak bested a five-game unbeaten run from Oct. 9 to Oct. 19, where the Sharks won four and tied one.
Mitchell Prudence and Corbin Hagerman traded goals for a 1-1 tie to finish the first period of Wednesday’s game versus Blenheim, where Wheatley carried a slight 8-7 edge in shots on goal. Johnson scored the game-winning tally in the second, before Nick Tavolieri-Essex scored in the third. Bowman wrapped up the scoring with an unassisted empty net marker.
Wheatley’s defense went through a relapse through the first 40 minutes of Fri-
day’s game in Amherstburg, where they allowed 41 shots on net and five goals against netminder Adam Leboeuf.
Jack Leafeve and Andreas Gossmann scored power play goals for the Sharks, both in the first period.
Wheatley bounced back to life in the third, scoring three goals in just over six minutes to force overtime. Leafeve, Tavolieri-Essex and Delaney MacDonald beat netminder Matt Boere in the final 20 minutes of regulation. Tavolieri-Essex potted the winner unassisted 65 seconds into the fourth period.
The overtime win in Alvinston and a 3-2 overtime loss for the Dresden Kings in the same arena Jan. 23 secured sixth place for the Sharks. Wheatley’s regular season will end with a Sunday, Jan. 31 tilt in Amherstburg. Results form a Tuesday, Jan. 26 game in Essex were not available by press deadline.
The Flags’ Mike Kindrachuk chases Sharks defenseman Brian Johnson for control of the puck during a Monday, Jan. 25 contest at Wheatley Memorial Arena. The Sharks won 1-0.
Cougars win defensive battle
By Bryan Jessop
When blueliners and goaltenders won’t budge, an elusive forward with a knack for handling the puck will often make the difference.
That was the lesson learned by the Essex Red Raiders Tuesday, Jan. 19 at Unico Arena, where Cardinal Carter’s Gioia Diciocco put an end to 55 minutes of scoreless play between the two WECSSAA girls hockey teams. Diciocco solved Essex goalkeeper Maddy Tulett early in the third period of a Tier II regular season match to give Cardinal Carter the lead. The 1-0 advantage was maintained until the final few seconds of the game, when an empty netter was added to finalize the score at 2-0.
“They’re a really good defensive team,” Cougars coach Chris Church said of Essex.
“I think we’re two of the most evenly-matched teams,” cocoach Chris Lapain added. “They’ve got a couple goal scorers, good defense and good goaltending.”
The first meeting of the season between the two teams — played Dec. 2 in Essex — ended in shutouts for Cardinal Carter’s Alyee Church and the Red Raiders’ Tulett. The same two netminders kept the Jan. 19 contest scoreless through the first two 10-minute periods. Several key saves at both ends and defensive protection that didn’t allow access to rebounds made it look as though another scoreless stalemate was imminent.
Twenty-four seconds into the third stanza, Diciocco carried the puck around several Essex players before storming in on net and releasing a high wrist shot into the mesh from point blank range. Bryanna Rodrigues set Diciocco in motion with the goal’s only assist.
Essex forwards tried desperately to even the score over the next 10 minutes, but were consistently denied by Church and her defensive cohorts. Wisely keeping a closer eye on Unico’s time clock than the larger game clock, the Red Raiders’ bench pulled Tulett for the extra attacker with 5:08 on the timer and 3:48 p.m. on the digital clock to its right — two minutes before curfew.
The six Essex skaters kept the pressure on Cardinal Carter defenders deep in the home team’s zone, but eventually lost control of the puck. The Cougars’ offense brought the disc to the other end of the rink and after a few frantic attempts to
Cardinal Carter’s Kayla Collison and an Essex defenseman go shoulder to shoulder as they jostle for control of the puck in the Red Raiders’ corner to the left of the net during a WECSSAA Tier II girls hockey game Tuesday, Jan. 19 at Unico Arena.
chip it into the empty net, Taylor Taouil took control and fired a knee-high wrist shot over the goal line from a sharp angle to the right of the goal. Kayla Collison earned the lone assist. The empty netter was scored at the 4:39 mark — 20 seconds before the curfew buzzer declared the end of the match.
Diciocco’s game-winning marker was her 10th of the season, the most among all players on the Cougars’ roster.
“She’s a graceful skater and she’s got great hands — she doesn’t lose the puck very often” noted Chris Church of Diciocco’s play. “She’s deceptive and very nonchalant. The weakest part of her game is her celebration.”
3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4 home-ice tilt against the 2-2-1 St. Joseph’s Lasers. The outcome of the game may determine who the Cougars face in the first round of WECSSAA playoffs. Their most likely opponent will be either Harrow or St. Joseph’s.
“I think we’re two of the most evenly-matched teams. They’ve got a couple goal scorers, good defense and good goaltending.”
— Chris Lapain
Cardinal Carter managed the win despite having only 13 players in uniform compared to 18 for Essex. The victory improved the Cougars’ record to 5-3-1 for 11 points and sole possession of second place in Tier II. After undefeated L’Essor, the Cougars and Red Raiders have the division’s best defensive records, with 14 goals against in nine games and 12 goals against in seven games, respectively.
Cardinal Carter has one regular season game remaining — a
Sunbrite Peewees take on Essex
Southpoint Sunbrite Peewees played Essex Red at home on Saturday. It was a close game until the second period when Essex scored the first goal. Ben Morin of Sunbrite came right back to tie up the game late in the third and Essex scored a power play goal. Sunbrite took a 2-1 loss.
Weil’s Atoms face Essex
Southpoint Weil’s Food Atoms faced Essex Yellow in Essex on Saturday.
Luca Rino scored first for Weil’s with an assist from Colton Selwood. Weil’s was down 2-1 going into the third period. Luca Rino scored another goal, assisted by Selwood, to tie it up.
Essex scored again to take the lead. The game ended in a 3-2 win for Essex.
Atom Minors sweep Erie Northshore
Sunday afternoon in Kingsville, energy was high and Southpoint Thiessen Orchards Atom Minors were ready to play. Cameron Arquette started the scoring, assisted by Carson Murracas and Owen Matthews. This was followed by three goals by Jax Thiessen. Assists were by Vito Anthony Alfano (2), Tiago Ribeiro, Aliya Price, Nash Poission and Andrew Marchand. Erie scored a late goal in the third but it was too little too late. Southpoint was on fire!
What a game for Southpoint on Thursday night in Wheatley! The stands were full as everyone sat on the edge of their seats. Aiden Brown was a wall in net.
Jax Thiessen started the momentum with a breakaway goal in the first. Up one nothing going into the second, Southpoint stacked the lead with another goal from Jax Thiessen, assisted by Ben Recker. With momentum still high and the crowd buzzing, a third goal by Tristan Pillon, assisted by Kyle Macmillan and Carter Murracas, kept spirits high. Erie wasn’t giving up, and in the third they came back and tied the game to take it into overtime.
With 1:44 left in overtime, Vito Anthony Alfano won the draw and tied up Erie’s centerman. Left winger Cameron Arquette picked up the puck to score game winner. Wheatley arena erupted, and Southpoint’s bench swarmed the ice to celebrate sweeping Erie North Shore in OMHA playoffs.
The next series is Southpoint versus Riverside. Check out Southpoint’s website for the schedule.
Your local Dealer may charge additional fees of up to $1,103. Charges may vary by Dealer.
Gioia Diciocco scores the game-winning goal against Essex goalie Maddy Tulett during the third period of a WECSSAA Tier II girls hockey game at Unico Arena. Bryanna Rodrigues, in the background, drew the only assist. The Cougars won 2-0.
Southpoint Thiessen Orchards Atom Minors. (Submitted photo)
SECC looking for volunteer tutors for basic literacy program
The South Essex Community Council (SECC) is looking for volunteer tutors for its basic literacy program and citizenship application students. Are you interested in giving the “gift” of literacy, a gift we all take for granted?
The literacy teachers provide all the learning materials based on the student’s level of comprehension. The students are very motivated to learn and really appreciate your donation of time and knowledge. That’s what makes this type of volunteering so rewarding!
If you have the time and are interested in volunteering, call Stephen Gard at SECC, 519-326-8629 or email sgard@secc.on.ca
ElderCollege launches 10th semester
By Lloyd Brown-John
ElderCollege, an educational program for folks aged 55 and better, will launch its tenth semester of courses on Feb. 3.
At ElderCollege’s Leamington campus, courses will include: Basics of Bird Watching at Point Pelee; Bridge for Beginners; Lost History of Christianity; an exploration of a spring landscape and walk in flower-bedecked woods; Lawn Bowling for Beginners; the story of the local Mennonite community; a course (in Wheatley) on the art of chainsaw sculpture; and The Remarkable Art of Storytelling.
ElderCollege’s Kingsville campus will offer: Canoeing on Cedar Creek; a one-day fossil hunting expedition (by bus); Shakespeare in Stratford for the Summer of 2016; Paint Colours and Exterior Stains for home or garden; a geology course about Impact Craters and other unusual huge holes in the ground; Jack Miner Migratory Bird Foundation; and the local greenhouse industry is explained in a one-session course.
Love, Your Children & Grandchildren Frank, Jaclyn, Faith & Hope Al, Ruby , Philip & Mitchell
Your memory
God
a
keeping, we have you in our hearts. Sadly missed and never forgotten. Love always, Your Family
It has been 10 years. Those we hold most dear never truly leave us - they live on in the kindness they showed, the comfort they shared and the love they brought into our lives.
Sadly missed. Lovingly remembered. With love, your family
We miss ...
and brother.
Your smile and laughter
Your constant chatter
Your radio playing all night long
Your weather report every day
Being on your schedule
Ordering your double double You sifting through our change for pennies
Hearing about your Montreal trip Hearing you say "I'm just joking."
We miss you every day Jason. We'll see you again some day. Love, Dad, Mom and Jami-Lee.
ElderCollege’s Essex campus will offer: History of Emergency Vehicles; Canada Southern Railway (including a bus trip); Basics of Golf; Wright Brothers; Crime Prevention for Seniors; Art of Bagpipes; History of the Salvation Army; Italian pastas and sauces accompanied by fine Italian wines; a travel course featuring some interesting islands such as Easter Island, the Galapagos Islands, Pitcairn Island and more.
Finally, originating in Essex will be Part II of the great Sydenham River exploration bus that will also feature historic architecture in Dresden and Wallaceburg.
Courses will also be offered in Harrow, Amherstburg, Tecumseh, LaSalle, Lakeshore, Chatham-Kent and Windsor.
ElderCollege members can take any courses offered in the ElderCollege system. With over 80 courses forthcoming in Spring 2016 the opportunities to learn and to enjoy are limitless.
Registration for ElderCollege courses begins on Wed. Feb. 3. Courses run from late February to midJune. New courses are constantly available during the semester.
ElderCollege is a fascinating way to keep the brain cells working. It is also a great opportunity to meet people, socialize and learn.
Courses are posted on the ElderCollege website at www.uwindsor.ca/canterbury/eldercollege. Printed catalogues are also available. For more information or to register, call Canterbury ElderCollege at 519253-3000 ext. 4944. You can also register online.
All ElderCollege courses are offered by volunteers who are willing to share their knowledge and experience. ElderCollege is a non-profit educational opportunity for folks age 55 and better!
How a bag of oranges repaired a 1954 Chevrolet
Chevrolet was the top-selling car in America in 1954, helped no doubt by Dinah Shore singing “See the USA in your Chevrolet.” All 1954 Chevrolets were powered by an overhead-valve 6-cylinder engine with 235 cubic inches cranking out 115 horsepower with the manual-shift transmission and 125 horsepower with cars equipped with Powerglide. Over one million were built and sold. Here is the story of one of them:
Don Osadec of St. Catharines writes: “I attended the Hamilton Institute of Technology (H.I.T.) in the early 1960s and here I met up with a few more car enthusiasts. Some were hot rodders, dragsters, or purists like myself.
“One of my H.I.T. friends, Bill Green from Niagara Falls, Ontario, owned a 1954 Chev. One Christmas, I believe it was 1962, three of us guys decided to drive to Florida for the Christmas break. We did not have much time so we took turns driving all night throughout the whole trip, staying only two nights in a motel.
“One night, Bill noticed the headlights were flickering
County Bridge Results
Leamington Half Century Centre, Jan. 18: North/South - 1st Marie Ellwood and Roger Cote, 2nd Pauline Mikolash and Vi Major, 3rd Agnes Fraser and Frank Duransky. East/West - 1st Al Morrison and Derek Parry, 2nd Mary Strachen and Patricia Sanford, 3rd Sandy and Joyce Gammie. Bridge games are played each Monday at 12:45 p.m. Members and new members welcome.
Kingsville Bridge Club, Jan. 20: North/South - 1st Derek Parry and Marie Ellwood, 2nd Joyce and Sandy Gammie, 3rd Joyce Moran and Marilyn Robbins. East/ West - 1st Chris Brennan and Bill Chaplin, 2nd Ernie and Sonia Jackiw, 3rd Al Morrison and Sue Duransky. Bridge is every Wednesday at the Lions Hall in Kingsville, 7 p.m.
MORTGAGES
LOWER YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENTS AND CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT NOW!!!
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No Income, Bad Credit Power of Sale Stopped!!!
BETTER OPTION MORTGAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL TODAY TOLL-FREE:
1-800-282-1169
www.mortgageontario.com
(Licence # 10969)
FOR SALE
SAWMILLS from only $4,397 - MAKE MONEY & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT.
REFORESTATION NURSERY
SEEDLINGS of hardy trees, shrubs, & berries for shelterbelts or landscaping. Spruce & Pine from $0.99/tree. Free shipping. Replacement guarantee. 1-866-873-3846 or www.treetime.ca.
HEALTH
bright and dim repeatedly. By morning, we decided to stop in Savannah, Georgia, and see what was happening. We pulled over near a park in downtown Savannah, popped the hood, and just stared at the engine, not knowing what to look for.
“Sitting on a park bench enjoying the morning was an elderly gentleman who said: ‘Got some problems, lads?’ We explained what was happening and he said: ‘Your generator is shot.’ What now? ‘But don’t worry,’ he said as he pointed to Joe’s Auto Electric Shop directly across the wide street where we had stopped. ‘I’m sure they can help you.’ We had some tools so we removed the generator, walked across the street and exchanged the generator for a rebuilt one for about $10 and we were on our way again.
“We continued south to Miami and then across Alligator Alley to Fort Myers on the Gulf side. Then just after midnight the next day, another problem arose. The transmission would pop out of third gear without warning. It would stay engaged for a few miles and then pop out again. You could keep it engaged with as little pressure as you could apply with your baby finger.
“We bought a bag of oranges, tied it to the shifter and drove the car back to Niagara Falls that way. Bill sold the car as soon as we got back home.”
CANADA BENEFIT GROUP - 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
ADVERTISING
REACH MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS IN ONTARIO WITH ONE EASY CALL!
Your Classified Ad or Display Ad would appear in weekly newspapers each week across Ontario in urban, suburban and rural areas.
For more information Call Today 647-350-2558, Email: kmagill@rogers.com or visit: www.OntarioClassifiedAds.com.
BUSINESS OPPS.
BE YOUR OWN BOSS in 2016! Handyman Franchises Available Across Ontario. Proven Marketing System, Ongoing Training & Support, Lots of Ongoing Leads Provided. For Details go to: www.ihandymanservices.com
HIP OR KNEE REPLACEMENT? Problems Walking or Getting Dressed? The Disability Tax Credit $2,000 Yearly Tax Credit. $20,000 Lump Sum Refund. For Expert Help: 1-844-453-5372. GET FREE VENDING MACHINES Can Earn $100,000.00+ Per Year. All Cash-Locations Provided. Protected Territories. Interest Free Financing. Full Details CALL NOW 1-866-6686629 Website WWW.TCVEND.COM
DRIVERS WANTED
100% OWNER OPERATORS No Company Trucks to Compete With. Dedicated runs available. Sign On and Safety Bonuses. CALL US TODAY!
TOLL-FREE: 1-888-584-6412 Or Visit: www.loadfti.com
WE ARE URGENTLY LOOKING FOR THE FOLLOWING AZ DRIVERS: OWNER OPERATORS **Now Offering Higher Mileage Rates** CROSS BORDER COMPANY HIGHWAY DRIVERS $.514 Cents Per Mile APPLY TO: recruiting@rosedale.ca OR CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-855-721-3962 For More Details
JOIN THE FAMILY DRIVE THE BUSINESS www.rosedale.ca/drivers
STEEL BUILDINGS
STEEL BUILDING SALE ...”REALLY BIG SALE - EXTRA WINTER DISCOUNT ON NOW!” 21X22
$5,190 25X24 $5,988 27X28
$7,498 30X32 $8,646 35X34 $11,844 42X54 $16,386. One End wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422 www.pioneersteel.ca
VACATION/TRAVEL
See Polar Bears, Walrus and Whales on our Arctic Explorer Voyage next summer SAVE 15% With Our Winter Sale for a Limited Time www.adventurecanada.com TOLL-FREE: 1-800 363-7566 14 Front St. S. Mississauga (TICO # 04001400) 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.
CAREER TRAINING
HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION SPECIALISTS in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Contact us now to start your training
PUBLIC AUCTION
Sunday, January 31 14 Orange St., Leamington Preview 8:00 am • Coins 8:30 am• Auction 9:30 am 226-344-8741 • 226-344-1732 ............. Antiques, Collectables & More ............. oldfashionedauctions@yahoo.ca
FOR RENT FOR RENT
ERIE APARTMENTS
137 Erie St. South 2 bedroom units available. 2nd & 3rd floor.
13th month free. Available immediately. Call Bob at 226-936-1676
Upscale and Affordable in Leamington’s ONLY waterfront rental apartment building overlooking Leamington Marina and Park and minutes from the beach. Amenities include:
1 BEDROOM APARTMENT in Blytheswood for rent. $550/month includes utilities. Available immediately. Call 519-324-9818. ja27
SERVICES
ELECTRICAL WIRING REPAIRS, etc. by licensed electrician. Small jobs welcome. Call 519-326-7900 anytime. ja20-fe10
CALL
KAHL RECYCLINGWe come to you and haul away your junk. Scrap metal and appliances are free. Everything else has a fee. Call Ken 519-322-8305, 519-326-8559. ja14-tf
J J STITCHING - SEWING, alterations, and repairs. Pants shortened $8.50 plus tax. (Some exceptions may apply such as lined pants). If your clothing is too tight or too baggy, give me a call to see if it can be altered. Call Jean at 519-968-2261. 14 Johnson Avenue, Leamington. jjstitching@gmail.com ja13-jn29
COMING UP
KINGSVILLE LEGION BRANCH 188 Friday Night Dinners 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Weekly Specials $12 (Ribs or Perch). Other weekly menu items $10. Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month 8:00 p.m. 519-7335162 (office) or 519-7339081 (bar). ja6-tf
ANNUAL PANCAKE & SAUSAGE SUPPERTuesday, February 9 from 4:00 to 6.30 p.m. The Church of the Epiphany, 96 Main Street West, Kingsville. Adults $5, children 6-10 $2, children 5 and under - free. Take-out available. ja27-fe3
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE ESTATE OF ANNA LEILI
All claims against the Estate of ANNA LEILI late of the Municipality of Leamington, in the County of Essex, who died on or about the 9th day of May, 2014, must be filed with the undersigned personal representative on or before the 12th day of February, 2016. Thereafter the undersigned will distribute the assets of the estate having
and
management. Ask us about our limited time “New Tenant” incentives. www.ska-apartmentrentals.com Call Mike or Kevin 519-326-8819
Beautiful, secure building in a good location. 1 bedroom available. Utilities and parking included. Call Georgina 519-322-9526 We speak Spanish and English.
LOST
LOST - REWARD - LARGE
Male Siamese Cat, chocolate point. Lost near Talbot Street East and Victoria Street in Leamington on December 24, 2015. Call Leamington Vet Clinic at 519-326-8343. ja6-ap6
PRINTING: BUSINESS ENVELOPES,invoices, flyers, business cards, custom print jobs, whatever your printing needs, call Jim at The Sounthpoint Sun for quick and economical service, 519-398-9098. tf
PANCAKE & SAUSAGE SUPPER - Tuesday, February 9 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at St. John's Anglican Church, 60 Erie Street North, Leamington. Adults $5.00; children (6-10 years) $2.50. ja27-fe3
HAVE A HEART - Save a Cat. Monday, February 1st at A-1 Chinese Restaurant, 319 Erie Street South, Leamington. A portion of your meal cost will benefit Kittenaide. For details call Linda at 519-324-2729. ja27
Take Notice that Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington will review the proposed 2016 Budget on:
Wednesday, February 3, 2016 commencing at 9:00 AM and if necessary
Thursday, February 4, 2016 commencing at 9:00 AM and if necessary
Friday, February 5, 2016 commencing at 9:00 AM in
Council Chambers, 111 Erie Street North, Leamington.
Proposed Budget documents will be available for inspection at the Municipal Office, 111 Erie Street North, between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM by Monday, February 1, 2016. You may view a copy of the agenda on our website at www.leamington.ca agendas, meetings and minutes.
STUDENT BABYSITTER NEEDED - own transportation a must. Very early Saturday mornings 5:15 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.; possible other shifts as needed. References required. Call 519-324-2134 or email kpg2471@yahoo.ca. ja27-fe3
SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO GLEANERS
Located at 40 Industrial Dr., Leamington, is seeking a
PART TIME PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
Reporting to the Production Manager, the successful candidate will be available 20 hours/week, be able to prepare the facility for daily production, work with a volunteer workforce, operate food processing equipment, follow Health and Safety guidelines, assist in production of record keeping and possess mechanical aptitude.
Requirements include but are not limited to:
• Ensure adherence to facility Operating Procedures and GMP’s (Good Manufacturing Practices)
• Be in possession of fork lift operator certification, or capable of obtaining same
• Possess a Class G driver’s license
• Ability to work independently on occasion
• Must be able to lift up to 45 lbs.
• May be required to work in excess of 20 hours per week when covering vacations
For a more detailed description of the duties associated with the position, please visit www.swogleaners.org or our Facebook page.
Please forward resumes by e-mail to: swogleaners@gmail.com by Friday February 5, 2016
Only those candidates to be interviewed will be favoured with a reply.
WAREHOUSE MANAGER NEEDED
Expanding local supply company looking for individual with strong work ethic to join our team. We look for someone with a great personality and ability to work with others in a team oriented structure.
Please send your resume in confidence to: P.O. Box E c/o Southpoint Sun 194 Talbot St. E., Unit 5 Leamington, ON N8H 1M2
WANTED - SHEET METAL WORKER
Licensed 308A (Registered with OCOT) Full Time, Benefits Available Prefer resume to be dropped off at: 238 Talbot St. W., Leamington, ON Resume must include school transcript, references and MVR (motor vehicle report)
Alternatively - send to: 519-326-3632 Fax or grossi@grossiplumbing.ca
238 Talbot Street West, Leamington, ON N8H 1P1
PH: 519-326-9018
FAX: 519-326-3632 www.grossiplumbing.ca
GREENHOUSE WORKER Day Shift - Weekends
General Labourers
These are full time unionized positions; benefits and pension available upon completion of probationary period. $12.50 per hour to start; $15.00/hour once probationary period is complete.
Preference will be given to candidates who have previous manufacturing experience and/or fork lift experience. Experience in the Food Processing Industry would be considered a definite asset. The incumbent must possess a Grade 12 diploma or equivalent. The incumbent of this position must also be willing and able to learn and perform all tasks pertaining to the job and in compliance to quality standards, as well as be capable of working all three shifts. Successful candidates must pass a standard test and interview process.
Applications must be received NO LATER than February 12, 2016.
Qualified applicants are requested to send their resumes to:
Highbury Canco Corporation Human Resources Fax: 519-322-4102
Email to: hr@highburycorp.com
Or drop off your resume or mail to: 148 Erie Street South, Leamington, ON N8H 0C3
Highbury Canco is committed to employment equity. We wish to acknowledge all interested candidates; however only those selected for interview will be contacted.
Job Details:
• Full-time permanent
• Monday to Saturday
• $11.25 to start with the ability to advance
• Healthcare Benefits
Responsibilities:
• Packing and grading of produce as directed by Line Leads
• Maintain product quality standards that meet product specifications
• Maintain a sanitized and organized department that meets all food safety requirements
• Respect all other employees and work in a professional manner at all times projecting a good company image
• Other duties as assigned
• Ability to work in the greenhouse as required
• Flexibility to work extended hours, including Saturdays
• Follow all policies and procedures as it relates to Human Resources, Health and Safety and Food Safety
It is vital that you have a positive attitude, great energy, excellent attendance and punctuality.
Additional Important Key Attributes:
• Self-motivation
• Attention to detail
• Committed to customer service
• Work in various positions at the required speed of service and with the desired sense of urgency
• Ability to communicate any issues or concerns
• Independent transportation
• Excellent multi-tasking skills under pressure and manual dexterity
• Ability to lift up 20 lb boxes
• Ability to work as a team or independently
• Must be able to work in cold and hot environment
• Requires standing, and walking on a regular basis for prolonged periods
• Visual and audio sensory are needed
Only those chosen for an interview will be contacted. We
If you possess these attributes, please forward your resume to: hr@orangelinefarms.com
•Candidates will be working in the greenhouse as harvesters and crop workers with other duties as assigned
• Ability to do repetitive tasks, work in a hot environment and attention to detail with 40 plus hours a week including weekends
• Salary: 11.25/hour, working 40 plus hours a week including weekends and holidays
Please forward your by email to hr@orangelinefarms.com (627 County Rd. 14, R.R. # 5, Leamington, ON N8H 3V8)
DEPARTMENT : Skilled Trades
IZA DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING is hiring! Looking for Welders, Machine Operators and Industrial Painters! Send resumes to ccocks@izadm.com or apply within at 1960 Road 3 E., Ruthven ja13-fe10
SHIFT: Rotation days / afternoons
The Company is accepting applications for a Classified Electrician in the Skilled Trades Department. This person will assist in various areas of the Skilled Trades Department, for temporary periods, in the following types of assignments:
• Analyze, inspect, repair, troubleshoot, advise and maintain electrical systems throughout Cavendish Farms Facility including all production and facility equipment
• Interface with Production personnel and Technical staff within maintenance and suppliers
• Installations of other electrical/electronic-related functions, and other duties as assigned.
Some of the qualifications required are:
• Valid ‘Industrial’ and/or ‘Construction & Maintenance’ Certificate of Qualification
• Experience with Motor Control, PLC and Electronics in a factory setting required
• Ability to use a multimeter to troubleshoot basic circuits
• Knowledge of programmable logic controllers (PLC); installation and troubleshooting
• Knowledge of electrical systems and basic theory
• Must be capable of completing electrical repairs safely
• Must understand and follow the lock-out/tag-out procedures
• Ability to assemble/disassemble equipment with or without schematics or logic ladder
• Ability to interpret blueprints and concept sketches and ability to work off such documents
• Ability to change electric motors and switches as required
• Willing and able to work in various work environments i.e. heat, cold, wet, etc.
Preference will be given to the individual with strong PLC programming and trouble shooting skills (AB/Siemens/Modicon/ HMI). You must have a valid electrician licence in Ontario (442A and/or 309A), minimum 5 years of experience in the electrical field, in order to qualify for this position. All applicants will be required to pass a job related skills test.
If you are interested in applying for this career opportunity, please apply at www.jdirving.com/careers or to: skidmore.steph@cavendishfarms.com
Applications must be received by February 5, 2016.
We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
DINIRO FARMS NEEDS full time greenhouse general labourers. $11.25/hour, 45+ hours, 7 days/week. Must be available Saturday and Sunday. Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds on a repetitive basis. Please apply via email to: dinirofarms@wavedirect.net. eow-ja27
NOW HIRING - GENERAL LABOURER.Must have greenhouse work experience. Duties include: picking, clipping, de-leafing, packing, etc. for tomato crop. Standing for extended periods, bending, crouching and must be able to lift 30 lbs. 6 days per week - daily hours vary. Wage: $12 per hour. Reply by email to ridgefarms@sympatico.ca
Armstrong Top Pack Ltd. is hiring 50 permanent, full time vegetable packers for its Leamington location to start as soon as possible. The wage rate is $11.00 for 44.0 hours per week. You should be able to lift up to 50 lbs. on a repetitive basis and be able to sort and pack fruits and vegetables in a fast paced environment. No education or experience is required. Apply in person from 9:00 to 5:00 at 500 County Road 18, Leamington, N8H3V5 or by email jobs@toppack.ca
The Highbury Canco Corporation, located in Leamington, Ontario is currently looking for:
CAVENDISH FARMS HAS A VACANCY FOR AN ELECTRICIAN
After suffering a two-goal loss, the Leamington Flyers took about 24 hours to respond with a two-goal victory. Leamington recovered from a 2-0 defeat at the hands of the hosting LaSalle Vipers Wednesday with a 4-2 home-ice win against the Strathroy Rockets Thursday night. The first period was largely controlled by the Flyers’ offense, who repeatedly challenged goalkeeper Dane Gubbels with a consistent string of scoring chances, many of which narrowly missed their mark. Leamington’s offensive attack was interrupted only for a pair of two-minute occasions, when the hosts were forced to kill minor penalties.
Liam Hogan put an end to a team scoring drought of about 86-and-a-half minutes by beating Gubbels from directly in front of his net with an ice level tap into the left corner. Hogan took a feed from Derek Elliott, who shovelled the puck forward from the corner to the right of the Rockets’ net. With no Strathroy defensemen in sight, Hogan calmly made the most of the opportunity to net his seventh goal of the season. Luke Sanko also drew an assist on the late-period tally.
Leamington continued to set the pace in the second, where they outshot Strathroy 10-5 for a 40-minute total of 28-12. Elliott made it 2-0 at roughly the game’s midway point after being sent away on a short breakaway thanks to a pass from Matthew Opblinger. Elliott released a shot from in front of the crease with a Strathroy defenseman giving chase. Sanko was credited with the other assist, his second of the night.
Zach Guilbeault added to the Flyers’ lead during a power play. Gubbels made the save on a Joe Urbanic shot, but could not readjust his position in net before Guilbeault quickly popped the loose puck into the right side of the goal. Aaron Langlois also assisted.
Leamington let off the gas on both sides of the puck through much of the third, although Mark Gangnon made it
4-0 before the Rockets’ offence could respond. Circling around inside the defensive zone, Gangnon turned around to unleash a low slap shot from between the tops of the face-off circles, sending the puck past a screened Gubbels in an unassisted effort.
Strathroy got one back about two minutes later when Max Ewart sent a wrist shot into the lower right corner past the extended glove of Flyers’ goalie Michael Barrett. Shane Bulitka finished the scoring another four minutes later, quickly taking a Nick Griffin pass and sending it just past one of Barrett ’s pads at knee height.
Leamington went one for two on the power play while the Rockets were held to zero for five. The Flyers outshot their guests 37-24.
“Usually the third is our best period, but it was the opposite of that tonight,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski. “It seemed like we thought the game was over after two periods. An emotional game from last night took its toll.”
One day earlier, Leamington’s 12game winning streak came to an end in LaSalle, where the Vipers won 2-0 — handing the Flyers their first shutout loss since Sept. 9, 2011 against St. Marys. The Flyers outshot their hosts 31-26, but contended with 11 Viper power plays. Both LaSalle goals were scored on the man advantage while Leamington went zero for six.
FLYERS DOUBLE ROCKETS
BY BRYAN JESSOP
“We came out tougher tonight (Thursday) than we did all last night in LaSalle,” said Elliott. “We knew we had to step up after that. The penalty set us back in the third (a seven-minute minormajor fighting infraction from late in the second period) and we fell asleep a bit from there. Myself, I need to step up and be a leader with this team and I think I did that tonight.”
The Flyers took to the ice against the Rockets on Thursday without their two leading scorers Mitchell Amante and Cale Phibbs. Amante suffered a cut across the back of his leg Friday in St. Thomas after it was stepped on — an injury that required several stitches. Amante is expected to be sidelined until some time next month.
Phibbs was knocked unconscious during the 2-0 loss in Lasalle. Early observation indicated that he did not suffer significant concussionlike symptoms, although the team elected to wait a few days before additional testing to determine when he will return to the ice. Also in LaSalle, Mitchell Crevatin suffered
a groin injury that kept him out of the lineup on Thursday. Brayden Klemens, a 1999-born Leamington native playing this season with the Windsor AAA major midget spitfires, was called up for the tilt against Strathroy.
“He did a good job — I’m happy with the way he played,” Piroski said of Klemens.
On Sunday, the Flyers traveled to Chatham to face the Maroons. Leamington went home that night with a 4-1 win despite missing Amante, Phibbs, Crevatin and Scott Emerson, who received a three-game fighting suspension from Thursday’s match. Sanko opened the scoring on the power play for the only tally of the first. Ross Kreiger evened the score for Chatham in the second with a shorthanded effort, but Guilbeault and Hogan replied in the third for a 3-1 lead. Gangnon later added an empty netter.
Rest of the West
On Wednesday, Jan. 20, the London Nationals handed a 7-1 loss to the Strathroy Rockets. The Chatham Maroons defeated the Sarnia Legionnaires 5-3 one day later, followed by a 5-4 win for the St. Marys Lincolns over the Lambton Shores Predators and a 4-3 overtime final for Sarnia against the St. Thomas Stars on Friday. Saturday matches included a 4-2 win for Strathroy against Lambton Shores.
UPCOMING HOME GAMES: Thu., Jan. 28 vs. Chatham, 7:10 p.m. Thu., Feb. 4 vs. London, 7:10 p.m.
UPCOMING AWAY GAMES: Wed., Jan 27 vs. London, 7:30 p.m. Sat., Feb. 6 vs. Sarnia, 7:10 p.m.
Noah Tooke of the Rockets chases Flyers’ puck carrier Joe Urbanic behind the Strathroy net during a Thursday, Jan. 21 GOJHL game at Highbury Canco Arena. The Flyers won 4-2. (Sun photo)
Strathroy Rockets netminder Dane Gubbels makes a breakaway save against the Flyers’ Colin Moore in the third period. Moore returned to the roster Wednesday in LaSalle for the first time since Nov. 24 following an injury. (Sun photo)
