Southpoint Sun March 12, 2014

Major boating event planned for Leamington

By Bill Chaplin, Municipal Correspondent

The Great Lakes Cruising Club is planning its 2014 Rendezvous for July 12-16 at the Leamington Municipal Marina.

They have reserved 75 slips for the event. In preparation for this event the management of the marina has asked Council to approve up to $4,700 for welcome/promotional items.

An interesting aside during presentation of the report was that a summer intern would be doing an economic impact study of the rendezvous.

Council reaction was enthusiastic and positive. Questions consisted mainly of Council sharing ideas for municipal promotion and asking if administration had considered them.

March Break Fun!

ERCA launches smoke-free initiative

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) has launched an education and outreach initiative to help inform guests of the policy to limit smoking in Conservation Areas.

“We are proud to be the first Conservation Authority in Ontario to implement a smoke-free outdoor space policy,” said ERCA Chair Joe Bachetti. “Our main focus throughout this first year will be on education and outreach: helping our guests to understand that smoking is limited to only the assigned areas within our Conservation Areas. This policy will help to control cigarette butt litter in our natural areas, but perhaps most importantly, will ensure our visitors are not exposed to the dangers of secondhand smoke when trying to be active in and enjoy nature and outdoor recreation.”

The 2014 operating season will represent Phase One of the policy implementation, and will include Hillman Marsh, Holiday Beach, and the John R. Park Homestead conservation areas. Smoking will be restricted to the parking lots at Hillman and the Homestead. Seasonal campsites and hunting blinds are exempt.

The policy will be implemented throughout the balance of ERCA’s 19 publicly accessible Conservation Areas in 2015.

Over the coming weeks, signage will be installed at ERCA’s conservation areas advising of the policy implementation. As well, ERCA’s staff will help to spread the message through a postcard campaign, website and social media.

March Break. Pictured here, Willow McLellan, right, was busy playing bumper cars with her new friends from Comber. (SUN Photo)

ERCA chair Joe Bachetti, left and LaSalle councillor Sue Desjarlais (on behalf of the Canadian Cancer Society) display the sign.

Juno winner coming to Kingsville

By Bryan Jessop

One of Canada’s most accomplished folk music performers will be making a local stop on his 2014 touring schedule. James Keelaghan will be performing at the Lakeside Park Pavilion in Kingsville Saturday, March 22 as part of the four-show 2014 Concert Series. As he frequently does, Keelaghan will play as a solo artist, with an 8 p.m. start of two 50-minute sets. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Keelaghan, 54, was born in Calgary and lived in Winnipeg until three years ago before moving to Perth, Ont. between Kingston and Ottawa. Gigs played since making a career of music about 26 years ago have brought him across Canada and the United States. He has also performed in Australia during the island country’s National Folk Festival, where he met 2014 Concert Series organizers John and Michele Law.

Keelaghan had known of the Laws several years prior to meeting them on the other side of the world, but with busy schedules, they were unable to meet face-to-face until the event in the Australian capital of Canberra about 10 years ago.

“I love their spirit, their music and what they do,” Keel-

Is pleased to announce that Jeffrey Aitkens, B.A., B.B.A., M.P.A. J.D has joined the firm as an associate in the practice of law.

Jeff has a general litigation practice including civil/commercial litigation matters including, insurance, personal injury, employment law, debt collection and criminal defence matters.

Jeff is happy to meet with our clients in both our Leamington and Kingsville offices.

New clients and referrals are welcome.

Ricci, Enns, Rollier & Setterington LLP

Barristers and Solicitors

60 Talbot St. W., Leamington, Ontario N8H 1M4 519-326-3237 phone 519-326-8139 facsimile jaitkens@rers.ca

www.rers.ca

aghan said of the Laws, who live in Wheatley and own and operate the Rebel Cowboy Music Store in Kingsville.

Keelaghan was happy to become part of the 2014 Concert Series after being asked by the Laws to do so. The series has been organized in part to help finance the first annual Kingsville Folk Festival, to take place at Lakeside Park Friday, Aug. 8 to Sunday, Aug. 10.

“They’re the perfect people to pull it off,” Keelaghan noted.

Keelaghan’s music is based largely on the history and atmosphere of places where he has lived and visited. Inspired by musicians such as Stan Rogers and Jesse Winchester, Keelaghan likes his music to tell stories based on actual events.

“I’m a big lover of history,” he said, noting that his music is also influenced by the Irish traditional music that was introduced to him by his Ireland-born father.

Since recording and performing professionally, Keelaghan’s music has earned him four Juno nominations and one Juno award in 1994 in the roots and traditional category for the song “My Skies.”

In the mid 1990s, Keelaghan wrote a song dubbed Cold Missouri Waters about the Mann Gulch Fire of 1949, later covered by the band Cry Cry Cry.

“A friend once asked me ‘don’t you know any happy history?’,” he said with a laugh.

Keelaghan recently completed an Alberta/British Columbia tour, and in the autumn of this year will embark on another string of shows in the United Kingdom. Although many of his gigs have been hosted by larger cities, Keelaghan also looks forward to smaller venues such as Kingsville.

“I really enjoy intimate settings,” he explained. “It’s something I’ve always appreciated. There’s something about being able to see the audience’s faces — making a connection with them is important.”

Previously, Keelgahan’s only Essex County performance has been in Windsor, where he made a stop about a yearand-a-half ago.

Tickets to the James Keelaghan show in Kingsville can be purchased at Rebel Cowboy Music (5 Main St. East, Kingsville), Merlis’ Coffehouse and Eatery (4 Main St. West, Kingsville), Fletcher’s Cleaners (245 Erie St. South, Leamington) and Local Fare (11 Talbot St. East, Wheatley). Tickets are selling at $25 each. To purchase a three-show

pass to attend Concert Series shows by Keelaghan, Ariana Gillis (Friday, Oct. 3) and Katherine Wheatley and Wendell Ferguson (Friday, Nov. 7), contact Rebel Cowboy Music at 519-997-7777.

The other two shows will also be held at the Lakeside Park Pavilion with 8 p.m. starts.

Theatre of the Beat at Bank Theatre

Theatre of the Beat returns to The Bank Theatre (10 Erie Street South, Leamington) on Saturday, March 22 and Sunday, March 23 in a new, original, one-act play entitled This Prison or: He Came Through the Floor. This play explores the delusions of an eccentric prisoner and his surprise encounter with a good Samaritan – a thought-provoking comedy filled with slapstick madness and tea-time philosophy.

Reviewers have written: “As hilarious as it is intellectually astute – NOW Magazine (Toronto); “Part philosophical contemplation and part physical comedy, this is a thoroughly enjoyable play.” – CBC (Manitoba).

Performances are Saturday, March 22 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 23 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students.

Advance tickets are available in Leamington at MSCU and Guardian Drugs, and in Wheatley at The Party & Discount Store. For more information call 519326-8805.

James Keelaghan

CouNCIl NoteS

Bridge project approved for Big Creek

The Small, Rural and Northern Infrastructure Fund of the Ministry of Rural Affairs has selected Leamington’s need to reconstruct the bridge over Big Creek on Mersea Road 11 as suitable for funding.

BILL CHAPLIN

Municipal Correspondent

The report announcing this to Council on Monday, March 10 explains, “The Province of Ontario through the Ministry of Rural Affairs under the Small, Rural and Northern Municipal Infrastructure Fund (SRNMIF) will provide 90% funding towards the total net eligible projects costs up to $450,000. Consistent with past bridge reconstruction projects, it is recommended that the remaining 10% or $50,000, be funded by Federal Gas Tax.”

The $39,000 spent in 2012 to make the project ‘shovel ready’ is not eligible for funding.

Municipal Council viewed this as great news and passed the necessary motion to get the ball rolling.

CNIB fundraiser

Leamington Council on Monday night, Mar. 10, considered a request from the CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind) for a “Voluntary Toll Road” at Pulford and Erie on May 3rd. This date coincides with Vision Heath Month throughout the month of May.

The report to Council explains, “If permission is granted to the CNIB to conduct the fundraiser, all money raised will help support vision services in Leamington.” The volunteers collecting will be members of the Lions Club.

Councillor Rick Atkin is a member of the local Lions Club; he did not know if he had a conflict of interest, but to stay on the safe side he refrained from discussing or voting on the matter. (By the way, conflict of interest in this context is any financial interest: a chance of personal gain or loss. Since Councillor Atkin would merely be one of many volunteers helping out, he didn’t have a conflict. But, as he pointed out, better to err on the side of caution.)

MS Walk set for May 4

Entering its 11th year, the Mandarin MS Walk for Leamington is slated for Sunday, May 4 at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex. Last year’s walk raised $32,270, which brought the 10-year total to $409,116! Pictured here at a media kickoff on Friday, March 7, from left to right, are Jackie Putterman, MS Events Co-ordinator, Joe Colasanti, Jennifer Lange, Rec Complex, Arlene Sinasac, Heather Raymond, volunteer, Susie Gay, Team Captain for Team Mastronardi, Lloyd Arner, MS executive member and volunteer, and Joanne Gow, Colasanti’s. In front is Jack Brush, MS Walk Chairman. Each year Colasanti’s sponsors the kickoff luncheon. Team Mastronardi was the top corporate fundraising team last year raising over $14,000. The funds raised are allocated for local client services and equipment and research. Approximately 700 people are diagnosed with MS in Windsor-Essex County. (SUN Photo)

Life’s benefits

Saturday evening I turned my clock ahead around dinnertime. I was getting up early the next morning to take the girls to Detroit Metro for their flight south and wanted to adapt to the new time mode. Crossing the border early in the morning definitely has its benefits, or at least it did on this trip over because it was clear and quick there and back.

After exchanging hugs and kisses, I watched the two young ladies walk away with excitement in each step. Waving, I pulled away from the curb, changed the channel on the radio to match my mood and enjoyed a peaceful return drive home. Even with the snow still on the ground and frost lingering on roof tops, the light of the rising sun had ‘spring is coming’ written all over it. Sunglasses were required and as I drove directly into the light, the warmth that its glow emanated made me almost want to close my eyes and pretend I, too, was basking on a beach in the sun. Luckily, I kept them open as I flew down the highway home thinking to myself that definitely a benefit to enduring a long cold winter was the reward of spring.

Benefits seem to be a hot topic lately with the closure of work facilities, the negotiation of new worker contracts all over the province and the controversial discussion of the younger generation’s sense of entitlement in respect to what is owed to them, either by their parents or society in general.

With these topics in mind I googled the definition of benefits. An advantage or profit gained from something, good, welfare, wellbeing, advantage, comfort, service, bonus and reward all define but are not necessarily defining how we personally tend to appreciate or view the term.

When I was little, benefits tended to be simple and self-centered. Since I was one of the youngest in a large family, I lucked out when my older siblings left home to go away to school because I finally got a room of my own. My younger sister and I actually had our parents to ourselves during this time, the television was freed up and we finally got to ride in the front seat of the car without having to get car sick to do so!

Later in life, my point

of view changed. The most memorable of times were made while sharing a room with my siblings or when all nine of us were gathered around our kitchen table for a meal. There you benefitted from having a boarding house reach and a wellrounded appetite. There was no room for picky eaters and friends soon learned that they had to try one bite, which more than once opened up their taste buds and their minds. I do admit, though, that I liked having the TV to myself, and lying peacefully in the bathtub without someone pounding on the door to “hurry up” was always glorious!

Entering into the work world and later having a family gave me a new and different appreciation for benefits. Being selfemployed meant never receiving benefits that included dental, orthodontic, prescriptions, etc., but we did reap many others that included being our own boss and, well, that’s the only benefit I can think of right at this moment. Luckily our kids benefitted by having Mark’s straight teeth, and inheriting decent eyesight and healthy genes from both sides of our family tree meant any extra medical expenses were minimized.

Like all good things, there is never a guarantee that they will last forever. Mark and I question now whether or not we are play-

ing a lottery and taking a risk with the fact that we are aging and the chances of our medical expenses increasing is inevitable. While researching benefits I was taken in a myriad of directions and many pages reminded me that benefits or rewards could potentially be the outcome of everything we choose to do. We really shouldn’t hold anybody else responsible but ourselves. A sense of entitlement or feeling that we deserve something better only ties our hands and gives others the power over our health, our happiness and our life.

think are obvious, but if so, then why do so many people avoid the chance at reaping the benefits that they provide themselves?

Being a good listener gives you in return a sense of value and respect. We are social beings who tend to want to always express ourselves by telling and not listening. Patience will help in both your personal and professional life. You may find that your relationship with bad listeners will be more vulnerable as they tend to make assumptions and are filled with doubt. “Listen and the world will listen”

There are benefits to reading every day. It is mentally stimulating and increases knowledge, vocabulary, and memory, decreases stress and can be a form of free entertainment, especially valuable in financially tough times.

Exercise has an array of benefits that you would

Healthy heart, weight loss, prevention of osteo and depression, reduces risk of type two diabetes, prevents colds and anti-aging are all healthy side effects to exercise. They all add up to decrease the stress or reliance on a system that offers benefits without expectations on each recipient to do their part and work toward their own optimum health.

Lastly, ‘hard work’, whether at school, home, in sports, while volunteering or at your workplace, leads to an infinity of benefits. Hard work simply builds character, gets results, draws attention, brings new opportunities, pleases and helps others.

Benefits are not free and shouldn’t be taken for granted or expected. Just like the arrival of spring, we appreciate it more after enduring a hard, cold winter and if we grab the handle of a shovel to dig out our own pathway.

Coyote at Parc Omega, Que. by Randy Holland. www.randysnaturephotography.com

Rose should be in Hall Fencerows: an unlikely friend

Well, it looks like baseball season is right around the corner. Major League Spring Training is well underway and I can’t help but think of the baseball heroes of my childhood.

MARK RIBBLE

Rib’s Ramblings

As a kid, I was a Baltimore Orioles fan, in particular of Brooks Robinson and Jim Palmer. Those guys were my heroes while all of the other kids I knew worshipped Mickey Lolich and Al Kaline.

My love of playing the hot corner began by watching old Brooks fielding ground balls and line drives down at third base and throwing all the way across the diamond to get a close out at first.

Of course, being a lefty, I was usually put in the outfield or at first base, but I thoroughly enjoyed the occasions when my coach would throw caution to the wind and put his southpaw over at third.

I was lucky enough to play every position on the baseball field over the years, but never caught an inning behind the plate. That’s one place that they didn’t like us lefties to be at all.

Another of my childhood baseball heroes was Pete Rose.

Yes, I liked the Tigers and loved the Orioles, but I also liked the team they referred to as the ‘Big Red Machine’, the Cincinnati Reds.

The Reds had a powerhouse in those days, with Johnny Bench and David Concepcion, Pete Rose and Joe Morgan. Sparky Anderson managed that team and they were the ultimate team from those days.

I despised the Yankees and the Oakland A’s back then.

I often wonder about Pete Rose and his lifetime ban from the game of baseball and think, wow here is a guy who should be a shoe-in for the Hall of Fame, yet he can’t get a sniff of it. Meanwhile, we have several players who cheated the game with performance enhancing drugs who will be inducted into the hall without question.

I remember watching the movie ‘Eight Men Out’ years ago, which was about the 1919 scandal where the Chicago White Sox threw the World Series to the Reds. Several White Sox players, including the famous Shoeless Joe Jackson, were banned that year for throwing the series and betting against their own team.

Rose gambled on baseball some 80 years later and also got the lifetime ban. The difference was that Rose did not bet against his own team. At the time, he was managing his beloved Cincinnati Reds. That was 1989 and today, he’s no closer to the Hall of Fame than he was back then.

That is a travesty considering all who have come so close to be inducted in recent years who used performance enhancing drugs.

They say Babe Ruth used performance enhancers when he ate a chili dog and swilled a beer. The Babe still managed to outhit everyone in the league, despite his addiction to food and his wanton ways. Nobody kept Babe out of the hall because he was a party animal. Nobody excluded Ty Cobb because he was the meanest S.O.B. who ever put on a pair of spikes.

So, it’s time, Mr. Selig. Time to make things right with ‘Charlie Hustle.’

Rose deserves at least a chance to be on the ballot. Let the sportswriters of America, who have the voting power, decide whether he’s worthy, based on his performance on the field.

Not on the fact that he placed bets on baseball. After all, we live in a different world now. Betting on baseball is done legally all over the place.

Special to the Southpoint Sun

By Wade Forrest

Being away at school in Central Ontario the past three years makes it easy to notice that the familiar fencerows, a staple of local farm fields, are slowly becoming a thing of the past. What once dominated the nearby rural landscapes are now becoming the victim of larger farm equipment and increased crop prices. Some may shrug their shoulders and say “So what?”, but take a closer look and it is apparent that fencerows provide free services to us that we might have taken for granted. An evident example of these services has to be snow fencing. Fencerows were originally used, not only as a property boundary, but also as a wind break in both the summer and winter months. Fencerows do an excellent job at capturing blowing snow along the field’s edge and preventing it from drifting up in front of your driveway. The absence of a good fencerow could mean the difference between twenty minutes of shovelling snow and two hours.

Fencerows are also great for lowering heating costs by blocking wicked winter winds. A well-treed yard or fencerow can prevent the gusts from battering your home and the need to crank that thermostat up a few more degrees.

Fencerows aren’t only beneficial to humans, but also to local wildlife. Fencerows are constantly used by deer, rabbit and fox as a traveling ‘avenue’ when avoiding predators such as coyotes. Deer will also use fencerows as overnight shelter from the elements, and often feed on fruit such as wild apples or rosehips that can commonly be found growing within fencerows. These are food sources that may prevent deer from wandering into your back yard and decimating your garden.

Birds use fencerows to travel to and from their nesting sites to avoid the eyes of predatory hawks, owls and eagles. They roost in tree cavities or build nests within the fencerows when breeding. Migratory birds will also use fencerows as stopover areas on their journey south each fall. Without the fencerows, these birds would be forced to fly over fields where they can be easily spotted by hungry predators.

The cutting of fencerows results in minor economic gains for farm owners but can potentially cause disturbances in wildlife populations, increase snow removal efforts and ramp up home heating costs. Let’s do ourselves and the wildlife a favour and leave the fencerows the way they are.

Wade Forrest grew up in Leamington and is currently an environmental student at Sir Sandford Fleming College in Lindsay, Ontario. Wade chose to write about farm field fencerows for a school assignment. He also chose to submit his article to The Southpoint Sun as well as he believes that due to the significance of farming in Essex and Kent counties, readers would be able to relate to the topic.

Breaking Barriers at Leamington Arts Centre

On Friday, March 7 the Breaking Barriers exhibit opened at the Leamington Arts Centre. The Breaking Barriers exhibition’s focus is to create an understanding of lived experiences. The exhibition seeks to highlight resilience and resourcefulness in coping with barriers. A barrier can be anything that one must overcome to reach a goal, even if the goal is simply to survive. Breaking Barriers is an exhibition for creative expression that empowers, builds awareness, and facilitates partnerships and collaborations. At left, is Danah Beaulieu from Art Indeed, a holistic arts-based and art-making program. At righ is Wallie Pizzuti, a student of Beaulieu’s, standing in front of one of her pieces displayed in the Breaking Barriers exhibit. In the small gallery at the Leamington Arts Centre is Leamington Stands Strong. A reception for that exhibit is planned for Saturday, March 22 from 2 to 4 p.m. Also at the Arts Centre is March Masquerade on Friday, March 28 starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 each, available at the Arts Centre. (SUN Photo)

“Go Blue” for Autism Awareness

By

Bill Chaplin, Municipal Correspondent

Paula LaSala-Filangeri and Ann Obeid-Diab appeared before Leamington Council Monday, March 10 to request their support for “Go Blue” in Leamington this April. April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD), as proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 and recognized by Canada’s parliament on October 23, 2012.

As their letter to Council points out, “from a statistic standpoint, Autism — often referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder by professionals — now affects 1 in 88 children and 1 in 54 boys (March 2012 statistic). The 2012 numbers reflect a 78% increase in reported prevalence in the last 6 years and Autism prevalence figures are growing. Boys are four times more likely than girls to have Autism and there is no medical detection or cure.”

LaSala-Filangeri and Obeid-Diab hope to to bring more Autism Ontario programs to Leamington. They have a flyer that outlines suggestions concerning what people and businesses can do during early April. Ideas include:

• Adding/changing light bulbs, lighting filters, spotlights from white to blue;

• Placing blue bows on homes, visible street corners/light posts;

• Mentioning “Go Blue for Autism” on websites, newsletters, computer desktops, phones, facebook pages;

• Wearing blue clothing on WAAD, April 2, or on any designated days within the month of April;

• Raising funds for Autism Ontario Windsor-Essex County Chapter by asking colleagues, co-workers to donate $5 to wear blue jeans to work on designated “blue” days;

• Encouraging retailers to decorate their storefront windows blue.

Leamington Council was very positive and passed a motion of support.

Paula LaSala-Filangeri and Ann Obeid-Diab

in the in the in the in the in the

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20

This week you need to be the follower instead of the leader, Aries. It may be difficult to go against your normal grain, but it is for the best. Keep an open mind.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21

Your confidence may wane sometime this week, Taurus, but some friends will boost your morale to help you get back on your feet. Saturday will be a big day.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, certain things that have to get done this week are out of your realm of expertise. Do your best to tackle these projects but have a helper on hand just in case.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, you have a lot on your plate, but you don't know where to start. Make a list of your tasks, and it will help you better tackle one thing at a time until you are all done.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, learn to laugh at yourself as a means to relieving stress. Things can't always be serious, so ligthen up and take some time to relax. Work with Virgo this week.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22

Give yourself a much-deserved break, Virgo. You've been working nonstop for the last several months, and now is a great time to take a vacation or enjoy a weekend getaway.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23

You don't have all of the answers, Libra, so don't even think about saying you do. Relationship concerns are at the forefront of your mind lately.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 32

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, it might be hard to bite your tongue, but that's just what you have to do this week. Wait until you are called on for help before you get involved.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21

Take a few days to get all of your affairs in order, Sagittarius. Use this time to adjust to some changes that have happened over the last several weeks.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20

Burning the candle at both ends again, Capricorn? This is not the best way to get things done. Take a more steady approach, and give yourself time to recover.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, you can't put your finger on it, but something positive seems to be on the horizon. The truth will reveal itself in the next few days.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, fight against the current for something you truly believe in. Unexpected events arise on Thursday.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MARCH 9

Matthew Gray Gubler, Actor (34)

MARCH 10

Carrie Underwood, Singer (31)

MARCH 11

Alex Kingston, Actress (51)

MARCH 12

Liza Minnelli, Actress (68)

MARCH 13

Danny Masterson, Actor (38)

MARCH 14

Grace Park, Actress (40)

MARCH 15

Dee Snider, Musician (59)

It’s the Russians

LLOYD BROWNJOHN Cobweb Corner...

I had the rare opportunity, recently, to be invited as a guest participant to the often very secretive Gosfield East Hunkering and Hankering Society.

The society meets on an irregular basis in a large, well-heated, garage/workshop. There is a lovely, wood burning, cast iron heater complete with a restored mica window where flames can be seen dancing inside the heater.

Southpoint Staff Recipes

I believe this was originally a Mary Moore recipe whose recipes, for many years, were published daily in the Windsor Star. If I have the ingredients on hand I make minor changes (below) to the recipe.

HAMBURG CHOWDER

1 potato, chopped

2 carrots, chopped

1 onion, chopped

½ green pepper, chopped

1 stalk celery, chopped

2½ c. water

1. Cook vegetables in water. Do NOT drain.

1 tbsp. onion

½ - 1 lb. ground beef

10 oz. can consommé

10 oz. can tomato soup

salt and pepper

2. Lightly brown beef and onion. Add soups, vegetables with water and seasonings. Heat to boiling.

Extra delicious: Substitute one of the carrots with a parsnip, cubed turnip or rutabaga.

Jan Watson

There is a bit of a relic of an old MG up on blocks, its engine removed, a well stocked wall of essential tools, the smell of oil and grease, and one of these massive red tool chests with 101 drawers and a 1,001 tools.

Society members meet around the stove where an assortment of chairs ranging from cast-off La-Z-Boys to old sofa chairs offer comfort for the intense deliberations so characteristic of this vintage society.

Apparently somebody had heard that I had been in Russia relatively recently, so my expertise was sought as members of the society discussed, among other things, the weather, Olympic hockey, and what they’d have done with their Olympic gold medal had they won such a trophy while they were active in sports.

“Gotta admit, those women hockey players were fantastic,” said Jake. He no longer skates since he was stepped upon by his old horse.

“Yeah, they were great, but look at that Crosby kid and all those other guys winning the gold by thumping those Swedes,” echoed Earl who, until recently, ran a septic tank cleaning establishment.

“Bet you those Russians are really frosted with Canada. Huh! They couldn’t even get a medal for operating a Zamboni!” chortled Carl, who plans on retiring soon from his store greeters job.

“Speaking of Russians,” Martin said, “who do you think is responsible for all this record-breaking cold weather and snow we been having? It’s those cursed Russians pumping cold vortexs and lake effect snow into our banana belt. You can’t trust Russians – after all, look what they did when we beat them with Henderson’s goal! Yeah, they went home whimpering about how tough Canadians are at playing hockey. I think they’re paying us back with their winter weather somehow blown over here.”

Herb interjected, “You got a good point there, Martin. How do you create a vortex? You been to Russia, Lloyd, what do you think about this vortex conspiracy the Russians are master-minding?”

“Well,” said I, “I thought the cold winter might have more to do with an El Nino than the Russians losing some hockey games.”

A couple of “whats?!” bounced around the increasingly hotter stove. “Who’s Al Ninio – he’s not a Russian is he?”

“No,” I replied, “El Nino is a current of water in the Pacific Ocean that generates rain and unstable weather conditions...”

My explanation trailed off into a growing discourse on Russians and hockey. My expertise on Russia – such as it is – was forgotten and that, combined with my lack of familiarity with the penalty minutes unjustly endured by Canada’s Olympic hockey players, I realized that the conversation had long passed me by.

“Do you think the Russians will use that vortex against the Ukrainians?”

“Wonder if their hockey teams got vortexed to Siberia?” I eased open the door and slowly slid my way out of the garage and into the cold “Russian” night.

I enjoyed the opportunity to attend the Hunkering and Hankering Society’s meeting, but rather suspect I won’t receive another invite until I understand the link between poorly performing Russian hockey teams and our dreadful winter weather.

BANK NOTES

10 ERIE STREET SOUTH P.O. BOX 434

LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3W5 519-326-8805

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Theatre of the Beat returns to The Bank Theatre in a new original one-act play entitled This Prison or: He Came Through the Floor. This play explores the delusions of an eccentric prisoner and his surprise encounter with a good Samaritan -- a thought-provoking comedy filled with slapstick madness and tea-time philosophy.

"As hilarious as it is intellectually astute.” - NOW Magazine (Toronto) “Part philosophical contemplation and part physical comedy, this is a thoroughly enjoyable play.” CBC (Manitoba) "Wideman and Wert have incredible chemistry... The two belong on stage." Charlebois Post (Toronto) "Tight and energetic" - Winnipeg Free Press

Saturday March 22 at 7:30 pm & Sunday March 23 at 3:00 pm.

General $15 / Students $10

Advance Tickets in Leamington at MSCU (243 Erie Street South), Guardian Drugs (20 Talbot Street East) and in Wheatley at The Party & Discount Store. This event has been generously sponsored by Mennonite Savings and Credit Union.

ONE NIGHT ONLY!

“OH, BROTHER!” – A ONE-ACT COMEDY BY JOSEPH ROBINETTE COME SEE THE WINNING ENTRY AT THE WINDSOR/ESSEX COUNTY SEARS DRAMA FESTIVAL BEFORE THE PLAY GOES TO THE PROVINCIAL COMPETITION IN HAMILTON IN APRIL.

A young girl (Aggie) sits in a hospital waiting for her baby brother to be born. There she runs into a wide variety of characters including Jaques, an actor best known for his Shakespearean soliloquy that opens with “All the world’s a stage…”.

The LDSS Players, directed by Joel Lewsaw, will be performing at TBT for one night only on Friday, March 28th at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $10 and available at Counter Effects (2 Iroquois Road). A portion of the proceeds will help fund the LDSS Players’ expenses for the upcoming Provincial competition in Hamilton in April.

TBT’S OFF SITE MUSIC SERIES

Saturday, April 5th. Performance time 7:30 pm. Doors open at 7:00 pm. “Leamington’s Own” featuring Jody Raffoul & Special Guest Wes Buckley

Jody Raffoul, a Leamington native, is a working class pop-rock singer/songwriter who performs over 200 shows a year. “Simple Life”, Jody’s acoustic album, showcased his diversity and garnered attention from the music industry and his contemporaries. His sensitive, in-tune songwriting ability combined with infectious rifts took his second album, “Like A Star”, to another level backed with a full band. Both albums have collectively sold in excess of 25,000 copies and have only been available at live shows primarily in the Detroit-Windsor area.

The Bank Theatre’s Off Site Music Series continues at Leamington’s Knox Presbyterian Church. Advance tickets are $12 each and available at Guardian Drugs and The Lesson Lounge in Leamington, in Wheatley at The Party & Discount Store and in Kingsville at Rebel Cowboy Music

Let’s Wine Together

Understanding ‘wine-speak’

Please submit wine-related questions for publication and I will also share my experiences with local wines. You can reach me at grapeaspirations@gmail. com and on Twitter at @gr8grapz.

This month’s question comes from Russ in Tilbury: I’ve been to a few wine-related events and there are a few terms I keep hearing that I don’t understand. For example, “nose”

and “legs”. Another question is about wine labels. When it says the wine has “flavours of raspberries and cherries”, does that mean juice of those fruits have been added?

Russ, there are a lot of wine-specific words and some of them have similar meanings to what you might expect while others have no similarity at all to their everyday cousins.

“Nose” is a great example of the first kind. As you might suspect, it refers to the aromas that you detect when smelling a wine. Hence, the “nose” (also known as the “bouquet”). Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise – there is no right or wrong answer for what you pick up when smelling a wine. The tastes and aromas associated with wine are very subjective and not everyone will pick up the same thing, but what you pick up is going to be dependent on the smells and tastes that you are familiar with. If you’ve never smelled or tasted a pineapple, for example, there’s no way you’re going to be able to say that what you’re smelling or tasting is what others know as pineapple.

“Legs” is an example of the kind of word whose winespecific meaning has very little similarity to the two limbs that we walk around on. In ‘wine-speak’, “legs” (also known as “tears”) are what you see running down the inside of your wine glass after you give the wine a good swirl. They are usually indicators of the amount of alcohol in the wine. I say “usually” because there are a number of factors that can affect the appearance of the “legs” and the speed at which they run down the bowl of your glass. Some hold that a slower rate of descent is indicative of a higher percentage of alcohol in the wine. This can also, however, mean a higher sugar content in the wine. The very appearance of the legs can be affected by the quality of the glass you’re using and how well it was rinsed after the last time it was washed – soap residue on the glass will wreak havoc on the legs, not to mention the taste of the wine. Above all, they are in absolutely no way an indicator of the quality of the wine you’re drinking.

IF YOU HAVE PARKINSON and would like to join our group for information, exercise and support, come by Tuesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. to the Half Century Club, 160 Talbot St. E. Leamington.

THE LEAMINGTON KIWANIS CLUB IS A SERVICE ORGANIZATION. Meetings are held twice a month, the first and third Thursday. If you are a non-profit organization and would like a meeting place on weekdays, or if you are interested in learning more about our organization, or to have us involved in your community, please contact Leo at 519-325-0953.

VOICES OF YOUTH IN COMMUNITY IS ACCEPTING DONATIONS of unwanted or new exterior latex paint and supplies for the Back Alley Beautification Project. For pickup to to drop off contact Wanda Rodrigues, Youth & Family Resource Network, 519733-8983 ext. 22 or email wrodrigues@resourcenetwork.ca.

MARCH 14-16, 18, 19, 21, 22 at 7:00 p.m. - Is the Bible true? Can the Bible be trusted? Special lecture series, "Archaeology and the Bible", presented by Middle East expert Sayed Zak. All sessions at Seventh-day Adventist Church, 220 Erie St. N., Leamington. All are welcome to attend this FREE illustrated series. More info 519322-1644.

MARCH 18, 20 & 24 - The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is looking for adult smokers in Leamington to participate in a study workshop providing costfree nicotine patches and information to help them quit smoking. The workshops will be held Mar. 18, 20, 24. For information and to see if you qualify, call 519-

258-2146 ext. 3100. Confidentiality assured. Workshop locations are in Leamington, Essex, and Windsor.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19 - Voices of Youth in Community Meeting in the Heinz Arena meeting room at the Leamington Recreation Complex. Meetings are 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. All youth ages 14-24 are welcome to join. For more information contact Wanda 519-733-8983 ext. 22 or email wrodrigues@accesscounty.ca.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19Leamington Horticultural Society monthly general meeting, 7:30 p.m., Leamington United Church. Speaker: Healther Taylor, Waste Division Specialist with Essex County Waste Management. Topic: Gold for the Garden. Guest welcome. Light refreshments. Attendance is free. For more info call Ken Clark 519-325-0769.

SATURDAY, MARCH 22 - Free Pro-Life Youth Conference for youth age 13 to 25, 8:30 a.m.3:00 p.m. at St. John's Parish Hall, 1782 Oriole Dr., Woodslee (West Belle River Rd.). Speaker: Jonathon Van Maren, Canadian Centre for Bio-Ethical Reform. Sponsored by Leamington Area Right to Life 519-325-0929.

SUNDAY, MARCH 23 - Essex County Orchid Society meets at 1:30 p.m., St. Stephen's Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave., Windsor. Speaker: Ted Kloske, professional photographer at Henry's Photography, will share tips on taking great pictures. New members and guests welcome. Check out www.essexcountyorchidsociety.webs.com

MONDAY, MARCH 24 - Food & Fellowship Supper, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. at Leamington United

Church, 9 John St., for those who are alone or having trouble making ends meet. No charge. All welcome.

SATURDAY, MARCH 29 - Sliced Cooking Competition, 1:00 -3:30 p.m., Fogolar Furlan Club, Windsor. Hosted by AM 800's Kathie McMann. Three teams battle it out before a live audience and local celebrity judges to turn simple, local foods into a delicious and nutritious two-course meal. Who will be Sliced? Be there to find out - 3 teams, 2 dishes, 1 winner. Event is free. For more info and to register visit www.wechu.org

MONDAY, MARCH 31 - A free community dinner will be provided at Knox Presbyterian Church Leamington at 5:00 p.m. for anyone in need of food and fellowship.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2Leamington Blood Donor Clinic, 1:00 - 7:00 p.m., Kinsmen Recreation Complex, 249 Sherk St. Visit www.blood.ca or call 1-8002-DONATE to book an appointment to save a life. Wallk-ins welcome.

WEDNESDAYS UNTIL - APRIL 23DivorceCare, a free weekly support group for those who are divorced or separated, Wednesday evenings, Jan. 29 until Apr. 23, 7:30 p.m., Calvary Baptist Church, 475 Bevel Line Rd., Leamington. For more info call 519-326-0876.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2 - Voices of Youth in Community Meeting in the Heinz Arena meeting room at the Leamington Recreation Complex. Meetings are 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. All youth ages 14-24 are welcome to join. For more information contact Wanda 519-733-8983 ext. 22 or email wrodrigues@accesscounty.ca.

When a wine is said to have flavours of raspberries and cherries or other fruit –or any other flavour element, for that matter – it does not mean that those flavours were added to the wine. The flavours (and aromas) used to describe a wine are almost always flavours and aromas that occur naturally in the grapes used to make the wine. The one notable exception to this would be if the wine was aged in oak barrels. This will impart added flavours and aromas of anything from butter to smoke to nuttiness and indeed oak itself.

Thanks for sending your questions – please keep them coming!

CARMEN DANNER

Wednesday, March 12, 2014 - Page 13

Leamington teacher writes children’s book

By Sheila McBrayne

Dana Romualdi, is a proud mother, wife, speaker, teacher and most recently she has added author to her list of accomplishments. Romualdi recently published Magic Kisses, A Grief Journey From Heartache to Hope.

Magic Kisses is the fictional story of a little girl named Molly and her journey through grief and loss, regarding the death of her father. The story, told through Molly’s perspective, highlights common experiences and thoughts of children who have dealt with the death of a loved one. It ends with a message of hope and healing for Molly and her family.

The Discussion Guide expands further on the common themes of grief and loss in the story. Practical advice to assist children with their grief is provided.

Talking about grief is critical for the healing process. Many suggestions on how to start meaningful dialogue with children about their grief are also included.

Romualdi said the story is loosely based on a Leamington family. It was ten years ago when Leamington volunteer firefighter Sean McInnis passed away at the age of 33, leaving behind his wife Amy and two young girls. “His daughter and my daughter had the same birthday and it just struck a chord with me. I had always wanted to write something for children to help cope with death,” said Romualdi. Although the names are changed in the book, the characters are reminiscent of the

McInnis family. “I made a promise to finish the book, and I did. I had to find the right photographer and publisher, which took some time, but it all came together,” she said.

Romualdi has a degree in social work and worked as a clinical social worker before starting her teaching career. She teaches Grade 2 students at Queen Elizabeth. “The book came easy to me. It was a little of my own story and help from other families,” Romualdi said.

The photography for Magic Kisses was very important because the pictures keep a child’s attention. Wheatley’s Joan Omstead of Joan Omstead Photography worked on the project with Romualdi. The book was published by Inspired Ink Books and printed by Art Bookbindery in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The book is available by emailing Romualdi at dana.romualdi@gmail.com. The book retails for $13 each and is available on Ebay (Magic Kisses, Dana Romualdi) or her website and blog where she writes inspiration columns at www.littlelifelessonslearnedbydana.weebly.com. A portion of the book sales will be donated to Sleeping Children Around the World towards the purchase of bed kits.

Romualdi was excited to read the book for the first time to her class on Valentine’s Day. “It’s just practical tips for dealing with a lot of emotions and trying to convey those feelings,” she said. She plans to write more children’s books with similar themes.

Distracted driving fatalities surpass both impaired and speed-related fatalities

Fine jumping to $280

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has launched its initiative against irresponsible drivers with their Distracted Driving Campaign to eliminate the threat of distracted driving through awareness-raising efforts and focused enforcement. The campaign started Sat. Mar. 8 and runs until Fri. Mar. 14.

In 2013, distracted driving fatalities surpassed both impaired and speed related fatalities in fatal motor vehicle collisions investigated by the OPP. A total of 78 persons died in distracted driving related collisions compared to 57 impaired driving deaths and 44 speed related deaths last year.

“Everyone, from the victims’ families and friends to the police officers who attend these horrific collision scenes and have to notify next-of-kin, knows the emotional impact of one life lost to this senseless driving behavior that trickles down to so many people who, sadly, through experience, know how badly this behaviour needs to stop,” said OPP Deputy Commissioner Brad Blair.

The OPP recognizes that the only way to stop people from dying in distracted driving related collisions is to raise awareness of how serious the problem is and to have everyone make a firm, lifelong commitment to helping the police and safety partners eliminate it altogether. According to the OPP, it can be done.

“Over and above, every driver pledging to never text or talk on the phone, pledge to be a good passenger and speak up if the driver in your car is using his/her phone or engaged in other forms of distraction. Pledge to regularly encourage your friends and family to not be distracted while driving,” said OPP Chief Superintendent Don Bell, Commander of the Highway Safety Division. “Even though our campaign only runs one week, make this a year-round commitment because it is a fail proof way to help us eliminate the tragic deaths that occur every year because of distracted drivers.”

The OPP is reminding motorists that on March 18, 2014 the current distracted driving fine of $155 will jump to $280 (this includes the increased $225 fine plus a $50 victim fine surcharge and $5 court cost).

UMEI Students and Staff Sign Petition

Students and teachers at UMEI Christian High School are calling

Correctional Services of Canada to reverse the cancellation of their contract with Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA). CoSA assists high-risk sex offenders as they re-enter society by preparing them for release prior to their release, helping to establish themselves in the community and to develop healthy pro-social behaviours by accompanying ‘core members’ and hold them accountable as they integrate within society. Research has shown that for every one dollar invested into CoSA, more than $6 of value is created. “This issue fits perfectly into UMEI’s current chapel theme of ‘Blessed are the Peacemakers’,” says teacher Chani Wiens. “We believe that a proactive approach to help and support previous offenders results in significantly fewer victims of violent and sexual crimes. We also want to model non-violent resis-

tance in confronting the federal government on this issue.” Students and teachers signed a petition that will be mailed to the Minister of Public Safety, Hon. Steven Blaney, and local MP Dave Van Kesteren. Pictured are some of the students waiting in line for their turn to sign. To join the effort in having this decision reversed, visit mcco.ca/isupportcosa

Rare 1963 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk

Graeme Williams of Perth, Ontario, owns a rare piece of automotive history. His 1963 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk was built at the Studebaker plant in South Bend, Indiana, in January 1963 and went to its first owner in Texas, a place where many old cars are rust-free. In 2005, the owner at that time repainted the car and redid the interior. The car has an air conditioner, still something of a novelty in 1963 but catching on fast. And with the car going to Texas, an air conditioner would have been a welcome feature.

“I purchased the car in 2010 from someone in London, Ontario,” Graeme recalls. “That person was taken up by the way it looked and forgot about the mechanical part. I now have

it up to speed and I store it through the winter. We take it out every Sunday for a cruise and it gets a lot of attention.”

Graeme’s Hawk has its original 289 cubic inch V8 with 4-barrel carb and 4-speed manual shift. He tells us “it will go like a bat out of hell as long as my wife is not with me.”

Studebaker built this model for three years: 1962, 1963, and 1964. In 1963, they built 4600, with 600 going to other countries, leaving 4000 for North America. The idea for this car goes back to 1961, when the Studebaker president hired Milwaukee designer Brooks Stevens to come up with a new design. The result was a car with timeless appeal that still attracts admiration today. It is a true hardtop and goes as fast as it looks. The GT (short for Gran Turismo) with the optional 225 hp engine provided a top speed of 120 miles per hour and 0-60mph acceleration of less than ten seconds. Other optional V8s gave you 240 hp and even a tire-squealing 290 hp!

Studebaker introduced its first V8 engine in 1951 with 232 cubic inches producing 120 horsepower. In the years that followed, Studebaker steadily upped the horsepower with a series of small block engines. The peak was reached in 1964 when the R3 V8 with 304.5 cubes produced an incredible 335 horsepower.

Unfortunately, the relentless competition from the Big Three forced Studebaker to close its South Bend plant and carry on for another two years with its plant in Hamilton. Production at that facility came to an end in March 1966, bringing to an end 114 year of vehicle production, which began with covered wagons for the pioneers moving west.

I’m always looking for more stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca or write Bill Sherk, 25 John St., P.O. Box 255, Leamington, Ont. N8H 3W2. Everyone whose story is published in this column will receive a free autographed copy of my latest book: “OLD CAR DETECTIVE FAVOURITE STORIES, 1925 to 1965.”

Graeme Williams of Perth, Ontario, is the proud owner of this gleaming red 1963 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk.

The World Day of Prayer celebration was held Friday, March 7, 2 p.m., at St. John’s Anglican Church, Leamington, with the women of Egypt praying under the theme “Streams in the Desert”. Through the voices of urban and rural, young and older Egyptian women, the World Day of Prayer Committee of Egypt introduced their country on a human scale. They revealed Egypt as they live it: a country with one foot firmly planted in the past, teetering on the cusp of modernity, searching for the next step. Pictured here are some of the ladies who participated in the program representing various local churches. From left to right: Faith Moffatt, St. John’s Anglican; Beth Magoffin, FGT Family Church; Ora Puyda, First Baptist; Liz Baumann, St. Paul’s Lutheran; Caroline Reid, Knox Presbyterian; and Loretta Dick, St. John’s Anglican. (SUN Photo)

The Churches of Leamington and District Welcome You

Mount Zion Full TabernacleGospel 6 Mill Street, Leamington 519-252-0031 Sunday Worship 7:30 pm United Pentecostal Church 312 Erie St. St., Leamington 519-326-7056 Sunday Worship Services 11 am

PRESBYTERIAN

Knox Presbyterian Church

58 Erie St. S., Leamington 519-326-4541 pccweb.ca/knoxknotes Sunday Worship Services 11 am

ROMAN CATHOLIC

St. Michael’s Parish 29 Elliott Street, Leamington 519-326-2643 Sunday Masses: 7:30 am.(English) 10:30 am (English/Children’s Liturgy) 10:30 am (OLBS, Wheatley, English) 3 pm (Spanish), 7 pm (Youth)

St. Joseph’s Church 310 Sherk Street, Leamington 519-326-2643

Saturday Mass: 5 pm (English) Sunday Masses: 9 am (Italian, English)

(Portuguese, English)

St. Anthony’s Parish (Maronite Rite) 280 Talbot Street East, Leamington 519-322-2282

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

Sunday Worship Services 10:30 am English/Spanish 6:30 pm Templo Christiano De Leamington 39 Talbot St. E., Leamington 519-325-9654 Sunday Worship Services 3 pm

Provincial Gas Tax allocation for transit

The treasurer informed Leamington Council of the Public Transportation Program funding and a change due to a recent alteration to the Provincial Transportation Act. The change alters the gas tax ‘year’ from its traditional October-to-October to April-to-April to match the Provincial fiscal year.

The funding, which is 2 cents per litre of provincial gas tax as transit funding, which is allocated based on 70% transit ridership (conventional and specialized) and 30% municipal population.

The Municipality of Leamington is eligible to receive an allocation of $81,345 for the interim six-month period of October 1, 2013 through March 31, 2014 to support conventional transit in Leamington and specialized transit in Leamington and Kingsville.”

All Council had to do to receive the funding was enter into an agreement with the Province.

AT LEFT: Guest speaker for this year’s World Day of Prayer held at St. John’s Anglican Church on Friday, March 7 was Joshua Turner. Joshua, a Leamington native, and his wife do missionary work in the Amazon. Pictured here with Turner are co-conveners Faith Moffatt (left) and Loretta Dick (right). (SUN Photo)

Southern Footprints returning to Leamington

By Bryan Jessop

After a one-year hiatus, the Southern Footprints road race will make its return to the Leamington area.

This year’s competition will feature multiple categories for participating racers to choose from, including a 10-mile (16.1 km) run, five-kilometre run/walk and for younger entries, a onekilometre kids’ dash. The most recent installment of the event took place Sunday, April 22, 2012, hosted by Pelee Days Inn and featuring a half marathon race of 13 miles/21 km. This year’s meet, to take place Sunday, April 6 with a 9 a.m. start, will be hosted by the Point Pelee National Park’s Visitors Centre.

For the first time, Southern Footprints will serve as a fundraiser for JDRF’s campaign to eliminate Type 1 Diabetes. As Type 1 Diabetes is a medical condition that affects patients of all ages, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is now simply referred to as JDRF. Southern Footprints in its new format will become an annual event. The inaugural race/fundraiser is being organized by Leamington Chamber of Commerce president Dave Campbell, Denise Gaffan of Howard Johnson Leamington and Mike Makhlouf of Freddy’s

Restaurant. Makhlouf came up with the idea of reviving Southern Footprints shortly after it was discontinued for 2013 while Gaffan has designed medals for all entries of the 10-mile run.

The organizers considered maintaining the lengthiest of the available runs as a halfmarathon, but later decided the slightly shorter 10 miles would be a better fit.

“There are already so many half marathons in the area,” explained Campbell. “Ten miles should be doable for more people.”

The trio is hoping to attract a total of 300 entries between the available races, which will each include awards for top finishers.

Southern Footprints will also include a mascots race featuring entries representing local businesses and organizations dressed in their corresponding mascot costumes. The number of entries and distance for the mascot race have yet to be determined.

In 2012, 166 runners took part in the five-kilometre run while nearly as many — 164 — opted for the half marathon. Dean Schives of Tilbury is the defending champion of the shorter race, with a time of 17:16 while Bert Mucci of Kingsville finished first in the half marathon with a time of 1:18:58.

This year’s race is being

sponsored by Freddy’s Restaurant, Howard Johnson Leamington and The Southpoint Sun. Any businesses or organizations interested in offering sponsorship can contact Freddy’s at 519-3251257. To register for one of the Southern Footprints races, visit www.freddys.ca and click on the “Registration for Southern Footprints run to benefit JDRF” box on the left side of the page. The entry fee for the 10-mile run is $35, $30 for the fivekilometre event and $15 per entry in the Kids’ Dash. The online registration deadline is April 3 — organizers’ preferred method of entry — although entries can sign up on the day of the race if necessary.

“It’ll be a fun race,” said Campbell, himself an accomplished and experienced marathon runner. “People like to run at the point — it’s a blast to run the trail. The park has been working hard to make this work for us.”

To make a donation to the JDRF for the Southern Footprints event, visit the Freddy’s website and click on the blue letters “JDRF,” located immediately beneath the registration box. From there, click on “Donate to this event.”

Following the races, participants will be treated to a chili dinner at Freddy’s. Racers will also be given a free

t-shirt.

This year, Southern Footprints will serve as the season-opening event for the 2014 WRACE series, featuring 12 competitions from April to November across Essex County and ChathamKent.

Watch the best live sports on the go, only with Bell Mobile TV on Canada’s largest LTE network.1 It has blazing-fast speeds in more places, so you’ll never miss a moment of the action. And for a limited time, save up to $100 on the best Samsung superphones. So you can catch every play on a large, vivid screen.

DATE EXTENDED to March 28, 2014! Grants up to 90% are available this spring for rural landowners wishing to plant trees, windbreaks and install rock chutes. Eligible projects are for lands greater than 1 acre in size.

www.erca.org

select: Programs & Services / Tree Planting & Stewardship for order forms

If you have any questions, contact Paul (519)776-5209 ext 377 or email pgiroux@erca.org

Blaire Kniaziew Gervais of Leamington wins the women’s division of the 2012 Southern Footprints five-kilometre run in a time of 18:48.

Participants get started in the 2012 Southern Footprints five-kilometre run, hosted by Pelee Days Inn. After taking a year off in 2013, the event will return for 2014, hosted by Point Pelee National Park’s Visitors Centre. (Journal file photos)

Free trip to national event for LDSS motocross club

By Bryan Jessop

About a dozen Leamington District Secondary School motocross enthusiasts are getting a free, firsthand look at the best the world has to offer to their hobby.

Members of Leamington District Motocross — LDMX for short — organized a car wash fundraiser at the school over last year’s Thanksgiving weekend in hopes of raising enough money to buy tickets to the Monster Energy AMA Supercross. After founder and LDSS math teacher Dylan Langlois spoke to a promoter of the Saturday, March 15 event in hopes of working out a deal on tickets or passes, however, the local group received free passes.

The professional motocross event, to be hosted by Ford Field, will feature many of the world’s most successful and renowned riders. Members of LDMX will have the opportunity to meet and chat with some of the competitors before and after their races.

“These are the kinds of heroes they look up to in motocross,” Langlois said.

With free passes to the AMA Supercross event across the border, the local club instead spent the $350 raised during the car wash on LDMX t-shirts. The fundraiser ran from noon to 5 p.m. and was greeted by non-stop support from passing motorists.

“They were lined up in both directions from start to finish,” Langlois said. “It was great to see that kind of support.” Langlois put the word out on his intent to start a motocross club among LDSS students two years ago, shortly after making the move from Massey. With an average of 10 to 12 active members at any given time, the organization meets in one of the school’s classroom every Wednesday during lunch hour. During meetings, they watch pre-recorded races and discuss ideas on bike set up and tuning and how to attract sponsors for competitive racing.

“I knew there were some kids here interested and involved in motocross,” said Langlois, who started in motocross as a Grade 11 student and still occasionally races professionally.

“There isn’t as much opportunity to do something like this

in the city.”

During after-school hours, the club occasionally ventures out to Two Creeks Conservation Area to do some mountain biking. There have also been a few ride days at the Erie Ramblers facility west of Wheatley — where some LDMXers are members — and two years ago, an excursion to Gopher Dunes near Tillsonburg.

The group will try to organize one ride day per month from April to June. Hopes of such activities last year were sidelined by the same teacher contract issues that cancelled many WECSSAA sporting events.

“It’s not like minor hockey or baseball,” Langlois explained. “It would be great to see motocross expand. We’re trying anyway we can to develop and promote it.”

Although some LDMX members don’t currently have dirtbikes, Langlois explained that 90 per cent of the club’s activities don’t require a bike. Wednesday lunch hour gatherings also focus on agility and coordination drills and from time to time, include video game tournaments. Members also discuss ideas for future fundraisers.

“It’s a tough sport that builds character,” Langlois said. “Some people see motocross as a group of troublemakers, but we’re here to prove that’s not the case at all. We’ve got members from different grades who might not hang out together otherwise but have built up a sense of camaraderie by having a like interest.”

Starting seeds for spring

BILL PLUMB

In the back yard...

Daylight Savings Time has arrived and the first day of spring will be here soon. Consider starting some annuals for cut flowers such as sunflowers, celosia, scarlet sage or zinnias.

Purchase the seeds from a reputable seed company. Packaged seeds from over the counter can be several years old, making the germination rate lower. Not always, but this is a chance you take. Stay away from packages offered for clearance sale.

Do not use the regular soil from last year’s garden as it will dry out quickly. Use in equal parts, perlite, peat moss, vermiculite, or purchase a fresh bag of Seed Starting Growing Mix or Organic Mix.

As the seeds germinate, keep moist but not soggy and add Miracle-Gro fertilizer as most seed-starting soils contain little or no nutrients.

Figure out when to start your seeding program by reading each package to determine the germination period, then count backwards from the expected last frost of the year.

If you don’t have a sunny window you may consider using a supplement such as grow lights.

When you are ready for transplanting outside, gently turn the container upside down and lightly slap the container to loosen the soil. Lift the container slowly from the root ball, keeping as much soil as possible intact so you don’t shock the plant. Dig a hole that is not too deep. Keep the soil of the seedling and the ground surface the same level. Never bury the plant deeper than the top of the root ball as it will suffocate, killing the plant.

To prevent transplant shock, the early cool mornings or cloudy days are normally the best time. Don’t worry if wilting occurs, this is normal and watering will help your plants bounce back quickly. See my website at www.bptreemarketing.com.

From left to right, Robert Botham, Ryan Botham, Cole Greene, Ty Rahm, Chase Langille, Ryley Metzler, Jared Adams, Quinten Adams, Michael Ford, Brody Rupert and teacher Dylan Langlois show off the LDMX club’s t-shirts during a meeting held at Leamington District Secondary School.

Members of the LDMX motocross club held a fundraising car wash at Leamington District Secondary School during the Thanksgiviing weekend of 2013. They used the $350 raised to order and purchase club t-shirts.

Happy 60th Birthday Carol

IN MEMORIAM

HAZEL GRANT (IMESON)

JULY 22, 1923MARCH 14, 2013

“When someone you love becomes a memory That memory becomes a treasure.”

Dear Mom:

I’m building my own little library

Embedded in my heart

For all the wonderful moments spent with you Before you had to part.

I’ve put all my moments in a safe

Within my heart’s abode I can open it when I want

Because only I know the code. Whenever I feel sad and low And struggling with missing you I can go and open my little safe And watch my moments through.

My little library acts as a promise

I’ll never ever forget You.

(unknownauthor)

Loveandmissyousomuch, Sheila&Butch,Joanne&Ron,Bernice&Jerry,Fred&Sandra andallyourgrandkids

IN MEMORIAM

Richard and Carol were married March 13, 1954 in Dearborn Heights, Michigan. They have 5 children, 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

IN MEMORIAM RACHEL NICOLE CORNIES

March 16, 1999 - June 12, 2000

WhenatnightIgotosleep Fourteenangelswatchdokeep. Twomyheadareguarding, Twomyfeetareguiding, Twoareonmyrighthand, Twoareonmylefthand. Twowhowarmlycover Two who o’er me hover. Twotowhom‘tisgiven ToguidemystepstoHeaven. Your life was a blessing, Your memory a treasure... You are love beyond words and missed beyond measure. In our hearts your memory lingers, Sweetly, tender, fond and true. There is not a day, dear Rachel, That we do not think of you.

Lovingly remembered by Daddy, Oma and Opa Cornies, uncles, aunts and cousins. “A breath away’s not far to where you are”.

July 13, 1927 - March 13, 2013

We thought of you today, but that is nothing new. We thought about you yesterday, and days before that too. We think of you in silence, we often speak your name. All we have are memories, and your picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake, from which we’ll never part. God has you in His arms, We’ll always have you in our hearts.

ERNIE NEUFELD

April 16, 1932 - March 13, 2013

We little knew that morning God was going to call your name. In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone. For part of us went with you, the day God called you home. You left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide. And although we cannot see you, you are always at our side. Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same. But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again. Sadlymissed,foreverinourhearts,yourfamily.

In

who passed away March 17, 2001

God took him, it was His will

But in our hearts

We love him still, His memory is as dear today

As in the hour

He passed away, We often sit and think of him

When we are alone, For memory is the only friend

That grief can call its own.

Alwaysrememberedinourhearts, Kathleen and Jim, DougandMarilyn

We thought of you today, but that is nothing new. We thought about you yesterday, and days before that too. We think of you in silence, We often speak your name, All we have are memories and a picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake, from which we’ll never part. God has you in His keeping. We have you in our hearts. Loveyouforever-Don,Jill, Kevin, Lisa, Lauren, Megan

With love from Garry, Mikey, Derek, Denise, Lillian and Lydia

OBITUARY

Eleonora Lamos

Eleonora Lamos, 77 years, passed away peacefully at Leamington District Memorial Hospital on Thursday, March 6, 2014.

Beloved wife of the late John Lamos (2011) for 49 years. Loving mother of Diana. A sister, an aunt and cousin to many in Austria and Switzerland who will miss her.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Hospice of Windsor & Essex County. Arrangements entrusted to Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631).

Family and friends are invited to share their words of comfort and remembrance or make a charitable contribution at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Police warn about door-to-door sales people

Leamington OPP is issuing a reminder to citizens about aggressive door-to-door sales people.

Over the past two months, OPP in the county have received numerous calls about people going door-to-door asking residents if they can come inside and inspect the furnace. In some cases, when these people were told “no” they became rude and overly aggressive. In other instances, homeowners were told by the salesperson that he/she works for the government and if their furnace is more than 15 years old it has to be replaced.

Police advise the public never to allow entry to your home by anyone who is soliciting door-to-door and never let anyone force or trick you into signing anything.

Leamington Library happenings

Leamington Library is offering programs for both kids and adults in the upcoming weeks. All programs are free. Interested participants are asked to register in person at the

library, 1 John St., or online by visiting www.essexcountylibrary.ca (click on “Branches”, scroll down to “Leamington Library” and click on “Calendar of Events”). Here are some of the activities taking place:

• Family Storytime is on Tuesdays from Apr. 1 to May 20 at 9:15 a.m. This program is for children ages 0-5 years and a caregiver. Registration is open until May 1.

• On Sat. Mar. 22 at 11 a.m. is a meet and greet with Sam, a St. John Ambulance therapy dog. Children will be able to meet and greet the dog and either read to the dog or listen to stories while Greg Nolan reads to the group. Open to children, teens and adults.

• Dog Safety Program with Copper, Sat. Mar. 29 at 11 a.m. Kids will learn about dog safety and can either read to the dog or listen to stories while Erin McCourt reads to the group.

• Adult Book Club meets Tues. Mar. 25, 10:30 a.m. Join the Book Club for a lively discussion of “Deafening: A Novel” by Francis Itani.

OBITUARY

William Dzenekoj, also known as Frank Muir

A longtime resident of Leamington, William Dzenekoj, also known as Frank Muir, passed away on Monday, March 10, 2014 at the age of 95.

Dear friend and business associate of Irene Regnier. Predeceased by his parents Metro and Mary Dzenekoj, brother John Dzenekoj, and sister Anne. Frank is survived by nieces and nephews.

Frank was the owner and operator of Blue Bird Scrap Metal in Leamington for over 70 years.

Visiting at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Frank’s life held from the funeral home on Thursday, March 13, 2014 at 11 a.m. with Rev. Liz Chaplin officiating. Entombment at Lakeview Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Leamington District Memorial Hospital Foundation or John Howard Society of Windsor/Essex. Friends may share memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

ERCA presentation

Richard Wyma, General Manager of the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA), was present at the Monday night, Mar. 10, Council meeting to present highlights of the Authority’s 2013 activities, the proposed work plan for 2014, and the proposed budget for 2014.

The proposed levy totals $2,796,934 (which includes $504,100 to replenish capital and operating reserves). Leamington’s share of that is 6.25%, or $174,867. That is an increase of $6,541 over last year, some of which is due to a shift in equalized assessment.

Mr. Wyma highlighted the plans ERCA has for Southeast Leamington, Kopegaron Woods Conservation Area, and continued improvements at Hillman Marsh. He mentioned a wide variety of ongoing projects related to water quality, erosion control, and education.

Born on March 3, 2014, 8 lbs. Proud parents Joanne & Jeff Gagnon. Proud grandparents Mary & Giulio Fratarcangeli and Debby & Larry Gagnon!

Mary (6lbs 0.5oz) and Mila Christine (5lbs 11oz) born on March 5th in Leamington. Proud grandparents are Mike and Joyce Epplett of Wheatley and Ron and Caroline Myles of Leamington. Proud great-grandfather is Fred Epplett of Wheatley.

Westmoreland Sales/DDM Farms recently won the Vendor Development Partnership Award presented by Loblaw at the annual Ontario produce grower meeting. From left to right are Frank Pagliaro (VP Produce Procurement), Dino DiLaudo (Westmoreland Farms), Pat Gilbert (Loblaw Vendor Development Manager), Eric Biddiscombe (Sr. Category Director, Loblaw). (Submitted photo)

Leamington’s Westmoreland receives distinguished award

Ives Insurance recognized as innovators in the industry

Ives Insurance Brokers, a local brokerage is in the running for a prestigious award this month. After being acknowledged as one of the top 3 insurance brokerages in Ontario, Ives Insurance Brokers is once again being listed in the top 3 in Canada for their technological advances in the insurance industry. The winner will be announced at the Insurance Canada Technology Awards conference in Toronto on March 17th.

Thank You, Merci, Grazie, Danke

sehr, Yislamoa, Obrigado, XieXie, Arigato, Salamat and Cam on ban

To all my patients, especially those in the last thirteen of my thirty-nine years of optometric practice. I always regarded clientele who entered my office as patients, searching for a resolution of their visual problems, left as satisfied friends. You have made my career as an optometrist enjoyable and rewarding. Also, I was pleased that my friends came by to bid me farewell at my retirement - open house. So if you see me in the future, do stop and say hello as I will reciprocate, and with a smile.

Paul H. Gignac O.D.

Westmoreland Sales/DDM Farms, from Leamington, Ontario has received Loblaw Companies Limited’s Vendor Development Partnership Award for their leadership within the produce industry for food safety, quality, corporate social responsibility and excellence in customer service. The award was presented at Loblaw’s annual assembly of more than 100 local Ontario growers held in Mississauga.

Westmoreland Sales/DDM Farms has been a premium partner of Loblaw for 14 years and a proud grower of the highest quality greenhouse vegetables. The family owned and operated farm has been in the business for 50 years. DDM Farms focuses on growing hothouse tomatoes, peppers and English cucumbers all year round. Growing one of the most cultivated vegetables in the world is a source of pride for the company

“We are proud of the relationships we have built with local Ontario farmers and producers, and this annual event gives us the opportunity to review our business results, discuss industry trends that impact the local growing community and engage in strategic planning for the coming season,” said Frank Pagliaro, vice-president, produce procurement, Loblaw. “And, more importantly to recognize local growers like Westmoreland, who allow us to offer our customers an unmatched fresh offering.”

As the largest food retailer in Canada, Loblaw provides Canadians with more fresh food than anyone else.

Since its inception in 1919, Loblaw has taken pride in working with local farmers, fishermen and producers, helping them grow their businesses and contribution to the growth of local economies. Loblaw enjoys long-standing deep relationships with a wide assortment of Canadian suppliers and is proud to continue its tradition and commitment to buy Canadian First.

Westmoreland Sales/DDM Farms’ produce can be purchased at Loblaws®, Zehrs®, Your Independent Grocer®, valu-mart®, Fortinos®,Real Canadian Superstore®, Real Canadian Wholesale Club® and nofrills® stores across Ontario.

Vendor Development Partnership Award selection criteria include food safety certification, quality, innovation, farm conditions, corporate social responsibility, making a positive difference in their community, excellence in customer service and building a strong strategic and collaborative partnership.

Along with their partners Quindell and Keal Technologies, Ives Insurance Brokers is being recognized for their development of the Consumer Access Portal, (CAP) which will allow their customers to have access to files 24/7 through Ives’ website allowing their customers to make minor policy changes and eventually online purchases.

“This is first in our industry and we are very pleased to be acknowledged as one of the leading insurance brokerages in Canada regarding the development of future technology. Our partners, Keal Technologies and Quindell, two leaders in their respective fields were extremely helpful in developing this game changing technology” says Jeff Ives, President, Ives Insurance Brokers.

Ives Insurance Brokers was established in 1966 and currently has offices in Essex, Leamington, LaSalle, Amherstburg and Bayfield Ontario.

Mennonite Sausage, meatballs, salad, mashed potatoes, buns and dessert.

Hiram Walker Announces Major Investment in Windsor Facility

Hiram Walker & Sons Limited recently announced a further investment in its Windsor production and bottling facility as part of its $8 million investment in the site this year. The investment, which includes a significant contribution from the Ontario Government’s Rural Economic Development Program (RED), will allow the facility to produce new product lines and increase production by 230,000 cases. With this announcement, Hiram Walker & Sons will have invested more than $80 million in the last 10 years.

With more than 280 employees, the Hiram Walker facility is one of Windsor’s largest employers and the only “grain to glass” operation in Ontario. It also serves as a North American centre for innovation and new product development, information technology, procurement and purchasing. Hiram Walker has been producing spirits in Canada since the 1850s and is the largest producer of bulk spirits in Canada. Hiram Walker is wholly owned by Pernod-Ricard S.A. of Paris, the worldwide co-leader of wine and spirits.

“We have been a strong part of the Windsor manufacturing community for over 150 years, and this investment is part of our continued commitment to the growth of the company and the region,” said Patrick O’Driscoll, President of Hiram Walker & Sons. “The new production volume will benefit our workforce as we smooth out the variability in seasonal peaks to offer more stable employment, and result in enhanced partnership opportunities for our customers. We want to thank the Government of Ontario for their contribution and our UNIFOR union partners for their support of this exciting milestone in our company’s history.”

The investment in its bottling and blending facilities includes a $1 million RED grant. The grant was announced by Hon. Teresa Piruzza, MPP, at a press conference at the Windsor Hiram Walker facility on behalf of Ontario’s Premier Kathleen Wynne. The Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs’ RED Program is designed to strengthen and diversify rural economies to enable Ontario to build strong, vibrant communities and regions. Hiram Walker & Sons currently supports the Essex and Kent counties’ agriculture industry by purchasing 4.2 million bushels of local grain annually

“Today’s announcement is exciting news for our city and region,” said Mayor Eddie Francis. “The Hiram Walker facility is a landmark in Windsor, both for its longstanding role as an employer and its contributions to this community. This investment will not only allow for much needed job stability in our city, but it will help Hiram Walker attract new production opportunities and expand its product innovation.”

With this investment, Corby Spirit and Wine, which is majority owned by Hiram Walker & Sons Limited, will transfer the production of some of its brands, including McGuinness® and Meaghers® liqueurs, to the Hiram Walker facility. That transfer is expected to begin in the fall of 2014. New equipment will also allow the plant to manufacture smaller quantities of brands, allowing greater flexibility for new product innovation.

Leamington Br. 84 Legion news

The Leamington Legion’s cribbage players were at Branch 136 in Milton on Saturday for Provincials. Mabel McKee and Richard Howe played as partners and Conner Patton and Tim (Spanky) Moore were partners. They played a total of 18 games between the two teams and finished with a 13 and 5 record. They had a great time and met a lot of very nice people. Congratulations to a great team.

Doug Hunter will be at the Branch on Saturday, March 22 for another great evening of Karaoke. The fun starts at 8 p.m.

The Branch’s next Parkwood visitation is Saturday, April 5. If you are interested in participating, please advise President Bob McKee.

Executive Meeting: Wednesday, March 19 at 7 p.m.

WFCU offers assistance program to Heinz workers

Windsor Family Credit Union (WFCU) announced a program to assist employees of of Leamington’s Heinz plant. The WFCU Heinz Care Program, available to active Heinz employees, is designed to provide WFCU members and non-members with temporary assistance during the transition of the Heinz closure.

Along with specific programs to assist WFCU members who are employed at Heinz, all Heinz employees (members and non-members) are eligible for a bonus GIC rate on all new funds invested at the credit union for one year and greater.

“Heinz has played a significant role in the strong fabric of the Leamington community for many years,” said Martin J. Komsa, WFCU President and Chief Executive Officer.

“We want all Heinz employees, including members of WFCU, to know that we are committed to working with them to ensure that they continue to feel comfortable with their financial

situation throughout this transition. We remain proactive in working with individuals to ensure that proper financial planning and arrangements are made before any difficult circumstances arise. WFCU is proud to continue to do our part to

assist during this period of economic transition in the Windsor and Essex County community,” he added. All active Heinz employees are encouraged to call 519-974-3100 to find out how they can take advantage of the program.

FOR CHILI

Goodwill to support Ian & his family as he battles

Darlene is the daughter of the late Percy Pursel & Liz and Bill Chaplin. She grew up in Leamington and moved to Toronto where she met her husband Ian. Ian swept Darlene off her feet and they were married in October 2010. They were blessed with their son in July of 2011 and welcomed their baby girl just before Christmas in 2013. The recession left Ian unemployed for a year and in January 2014 he was finally looking forward to a new job. Life was looking bright again and then Ian was diagnosed with a stage 4 brain tumour.

Please come out to enjoy some chili, purchase baked goods and support this family. The donations raised from this evening will be given to Ian, Darlene and their children to help them in this difficult time.

Martin Istefan, Client Account Manager

Southpoint Sun Bantam girls qualify for provincials

The Southpoint Sun Stars hosted the Kent County Fillies on Thursday, March 6 for their third game in a best of three series with the winner qualifying for the Ontario Provincial Championship Tournament April 10-13 in Toronto.

The game was very close checking with both teams feeling out the other, knowing a tournament berth was at stake.

With just 2:11 left in the second period the Fillies scored the first goal on a rebound after a mad scramble in front of the Stars net.

The Stars were missing a couple skaters for this game and were hanging on during a Fillies press to get the second goal,

but the Stars kept battling and at the :07 second mark of the third period, Claire Phibbs tied the score at 1 after receiving a great breakout pass from Corinne Jackson.

The final ended in a 1-1 tie and the Stars qualified for Provincials.

Alyee Church played a very strong game in net for the Stars and made the big save when she needed to.

The Stars are now off to Toronto to play for the all Ontario Championship April 10-13.

Go Stars go!

Atom girls shut out Lakeshore

The UCCU Atom girls had a great game against Lakeshore White on the weekend. The final result was 7-0 for Southpoint.

The girls were aggressive around the opposition net, getting 21 shots. Courtney Jeffery covered up the front of the Southpoint net efficiently, getting the shutout. The Southpoint defense came back hard, giving the Lakeshore team limited opportunities. The defense also made a number of stands on the blue line, preventing the opposition from breaking out.

Goals were scored by Hana LeClaire (3), Alyssa Lamb (2), Alexa Taylor and Tara Tiessen. Hana also picked up 2 assists, giving her a 5-point game. Brienna Tiessen had 2 assists and Tara Tiessen had one assist. Ava Hildebrandt had a fantastic game, helping everyone else out with 4 assists on the day.

Special mention goes to the forward line of Alexa, Hana and Ava, who on one shift demonstrated everything the team has been trying to accomplish all year. They moved the puck deep into the opposition end, made 5 good passes around the net, took several shots, pursued the puck and were rewarded with a goal for their efforts.

The Southpoint Sun Bantam girls tied with the Kent County Fillies to qualify to move on to Provincials. Team members, front left to right: Sarah Schincariol, Emily Hyatt, Natalie Edmondson, Bailey Brown, Bryanna Rodrigues. Middle row: Tom Hyatt (manager), Amy Bell (trainer), Corinne Jackson, Abbey Hopper, Charly Demers, Lauryn Gradwell, Morgan Brown, Scott Hopper (assistant coach). Back row: Kathy Gradwell (trainer), Kiera Murracas, Grace Hyatt, Kennedy Hodgson, Chelsea Hickson, Claire Phibbs, Brad Hyatt (head coach). Absent from photo: Alyee Church.

Klemens,

RECREATION EVENTS RECREATION EVENTS

Warrior Fit!: Certified personal trainer Andrew Hopkins has extensive experience with obstacle course races and has designed an intense training program. Warrior Fit runs Wed. nights from 7 - 8 pm to prepare you for the Malden Park Heart Breaker Challenge in May. Call to register!

P2P Update: Aquatic Leadership Courses now qualify for Financial Assistance under the P2P (Pathways to Potential) for those families who are eligible under the Children’s Fitness Tax Credit. These additional programs include:Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, National Lifeguard Service, Assistant Water Safety Instructor, Red Cross Swim Instructors. Bring Tax Form and register at the CSO (Community Services Office) inside the Complex from 8:30 am - 4:00 pm only, Monday to Friday.

Red Cross Babysitter Course for ages 11-15 years, Wednesday, March 12 from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Pre-registration required.

March Break Activities:

Open Swim: daily 3 - 5 p.m. Within Arms Reach Policy applies for all children ages 7 & under.

Public Skating: Tuesday & Thursday only, 1 - 3 p.m.

Recreational Gym: daily 1 - 3 p.m.

Break Day Camp: Kids love all the fun at Complex Day Camp: swimming, skating, crafts & games galore! Register in advance so we can prepare with enough counselors.

IODE Antique Show: March 15 - 16 in the Complex gym.

Rock ’n Swim - Friday, March 21 from 7 - 9 p.m. Music sponsored by Dr. K. Archer, Family Dental Care.

DodgeBall Tournament – Saturday, March 22, 11a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Home & Garden Tradeshow: Friday, March 28 from 6 - 9 p.m.; Saturday, March 29 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, March 30 from 12 noon - 5 p.m. Vendor displays, landscaping, home décor, renovations. Everything to spruce up the home & garden! “Leamington Stands Strong!”

Commit to exercise, commit to be FIT! at Leamington’s Sherk Complex.

We

LDSS showed well at OFSAA, posting their best results ever. Team members, front row left to right: Emily Menard, Meghan Mercer, Lisa Jeffery (coach), Fallon Mitchell, Isabel Gossen, Trella Garcia, Taylor Meloche. Back row: Mr. Chekiri, Jared Planke, Carson Labute, Cody Lavoie, Joel Klemens,

swimmer from Kingston won bronze and a London swimmer took home silver.

LDSS swim team posts best results ever at OFSAA

The Leamington District Secondary School (LDSS) swim team recently competed at the OFSAA (Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations) Swim Championships held in Brantford on March 4-5. They competed against 727 of the best swimmers in the province. LDSS had their best result EVER and placed in the top 10% of high schools from across Ontario.

The Junior Girls relay teams captured 10th place in Ontario in the medley relay with Taylor Meloche swimming backstroke, Emily Menard on breaststroke, Meghan Mercer swimming butterfly and Joanna Weil and Trella Garcia swimming front crawl.

The Junior Girls also placed 7th in the province in the freestyle relay with strong swims from Taylor Meloche, Emily Menard, Trella Garcia and Meghan Mercer.

Taylor Meloche placed 12th in Ontario, swimming all 4 strokes in the Individual Medley.

Fallon Mitchell swam some personal best times, finishing 14th in the 200m freestyle event and 18th in the 100m freestyle event against the top female club swimmers in Ontario.

The LDSS boys did not disappoint, either. The Open Boys medley relay, including Ben Brothers on backstroke, Cody Lavoie on breaststroke, Joel Klemens on butterfly and Jared Plancke doing freestyle, had never practiced together before OFSAA. At the end of preliminaries they were ranked 12th, but were unfortunately disqualified for a technicality.

Grade 9 student Carson Labute gave a strong effort in his OFSAA debut, finishing 13th in 50m freestyle.

Veteran swimmer Jared Plancke had an admirable showing as well, finishing 24th in 100m butterfly and 14th in 100m freestyle.

Grade 12 student Joel Klemens finished 11th in the preliminaries for 50m freestyle, but decided to scratch from the final to focus on the Senior Boys 50m butterfly and this bold decision paid off – he captured the bronze medal in the event, a first for LDSS.

That was not the only trip to the podium for the LDSS team. Cody Lavoie dominated the pool, winning a bronze medal in 100m Individual Medley and a gold medal – fastest in the province – in 100m backstroke.

Coaches Lisa Jeffery and Stephanie Setler are very proud of their team’s success and look forward to continued success next year.

Rhine Danube bowling results

The following are the Rhine Danube bowling league results for Feb. 24.

Games Over 200: J. Dalimonte 211, M. Dickau 200, H. Kosempel 226-200, G. Garnham 207-215, A. Dickau 211-215, W. Fittler 202-208-212, J. Valade 223, C. Kosempel 206-227-248, A. Salvati 237, D. Dalimonte 213-224-235, K. Kosempel 213.

Series Over 550: M. Dickau 552, G. Garnham 596, M. Paglione 557, A. Dickau 595, A. Salvati 555, H. Kosempel 617, W. Fittler 622, J. Valade 605, C. Kosempel 681, D. Dalimonte 672.

Standings: Taki’s 45, Fittler Farms 40, Rhine Danube 38, Unico 32, Weil’s 31, Dickau’s 24.

The LDSS Junior girls placed 7th in freestyle relay. From left to right: Meghan Mercer, Trella Garcia, Emily Menard, Taylor Meloche.

It was gold in the 100m backstroke for LDSS swimmer Cody Lavoie (gr. 12). Cody’s time was the fastest in the province. A

Joel

gr. 12 at LDSS, captured bronze in the senior boys 100m butterfly event.

Ben Brothers.

The Wizard of Odds

No matter what the sport, a scoring play should never be boring or mundane. For that reason, I was actually happy to hear about a proposed change to the rule books for the National Football League, even though I’m mostly a purist when it comes to the traditons or guidelines of any sport where I take even a casual interest. It recently came to my attention that the PAT — point after touchdown — may no longer be a mere 19-yard chip shot. The latest proposal would have the touchdown’s seventh point kicked from 42 yards out, a far more challenging distance for even the best of kickers.

BRYAN JESSOP

Jessop’s Journal

The success rate of the PAT from its current location is 99.6 per cent. Yawn.

In the National Basketball Association, the success rate of the free throw has been about 75 per cent for the last half century. In the National Hockey League, penalty shots that find the back of the net represent about 30 per cent of all attempts, although that particular stat is slightly more of a moving target from season to season (which stands to reason since they’re far less common). I was surprised to find that last season’s Major League Baseball average batting average was as high as .285 (28.5 per cent). I assumed it would be around .250. In soccer, you’re looking at jubilant shooters being jumped on by equally ecstatic teammates about 70 per cent of the time.

No matter how you slice, dice, measure or calculate it, football’s PAT is the most anti-climatic scoring play in all of sport. When a six-point touchdown scored late in a game brings the score to a tie, the team that just added six points often celebrates as though victory has already been acheived — probably because for all intents and purposes, it has (at least at the college and pro levels). Even fans with an intimate knowledge of the sport discuss the touchdown as a seven-point play.

A 42-yard attempt changes everything. For one, it makes the two-point conversion more tempting. Secondly, if you’re up by three and the opposition has time for one more possession, you have to think harder about whether or not a field goal will at least keep the score tied if they manage a late touchdown.

The average NFL kicker splits the uprights between 80 and 90 per cent of the time when making a 42-yard attempt. Not exactly a coin toss, but it at least makes the PAT kick worth watching.

And there, I suspect, lies the alterior motive. Forget the activity at the turnstiles, making a boatload of money in professional North American sports is all about network television contracts. Chances are more living room spectators will remain planted on their sofas to watch a PAT and therefore witness at least the first few seconds of the following commerical break if there’s an element of suspense to the seventh-point kick. Otherwise, the hunt for the last can of beer somewhere behind the leftover chicken pot pie begins before the end zone dance even gets started — and that means millions of fans who will never know about the limited-time offer of free balancing and valve stems with the purchase of four new allseason radials at Big Joe’s Tire (hurry while supplies last).

Although I don’t follow the NFL as closely as the NHL, I’ll still make the assumption that commissioner Roger Goddell knows more about football than Gary Bettman knows about hockey, thus ensuring me that the verdict on the 42-yard PAT kick will be a reasonably well-informed decision. If I can’t convince you of the same, at least consider how many NFL franchises are based in the Northwest Territories and how many NHL teams operate out of Florida.

Times are also changing in Major League Baseball. Starting this year, teams will be allowed a video challenge should they disagree with an umpire’s call. If they’re right, they’ll be entitled to a second challenge should they chose to employ it later in the game. If they’re wrong, their first is their last, forcing managers to resort to the time-honoured verbal abuse of said officials and the subsequent risk of ejection.

But what are the odds of that?

St. Louis boys undefeated, wins basketball championship!

St. Louis School’s boys basketball team recently won the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board’s championship at the University of Windsor.

First the Crusaders eliminated cross-town rival, Queen of Peace, in a local playoff game. Then St. Louis travelled to Windsor to meet the defending champions, Christ the King, in their gym. This game went into overtime before St. Louis, minus three starters who had fouled out, pulled off a 65-63 win. Then it was off to the semi-finals at the university, where it took two overtime periods before St. Louis won over Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, 47-46.

The final saw the Leamington team meeting a fast, good ball-handling St. Rose team. This game was close throughout with St. Louis never trailing and winning comfortably in the end 55-31. This final win ensured St. Louis of an undefeated season and the championship.

The team was coached by Tom Jraiche, a parent, Earl Skidmore, a retired teacher, and school rep, Ms. Rosemary Gebrail.

St Louis boys basketball team had an undefeated season and won the WECDSB championship. Team members, front, left to right: Mark Jraiche, Solomon Sleiman. Second row: Charbel Jabbour, Reis Rocheleau, Braeden Caetano, Noah Anscombe, Markus Youssef. Back row: Coach Earl Skidmore, coach Tom Jraiche, Tiago Mauricio, Brandon Mastronardi, Charbel Nohra, Austin Tiessen, Derrick Antunes, Alejandro Salan, Mathew Mastronardi. Absent from photo: Ms. Rosemary Gebrail (school rep).

Dylan Wright goes pro in motocross

By Bryan Jessop

A young motocross racer with Wheatley roots has proven he has the ‘Wright’ stuff to make a profession of his passion. Dylan Wright, son of former Wheatley resident Bill Wright, has signed a three-year pro contract with his race team MX101 Yamaha — a nearly unheard of milestone for a 16-year-old racer. Dylan and his family are currently residents of Richmond, Ont., within close proximity to Ottawa. He will first suit up as a pro upon the launch of the 2014 season in May for the Canadian Nationals, which will take him from Nanaimo, B.C. to Moncton, N.B. up to the third week of August.

Pre national races will also bring Wright to the Quebec and Ontario provincials for stops at Sand Del Lee Motocross Park near Ottawa, Gopher Dunes near Tillsonburg and Walton Raceway east of Goderich. He is familiar with each of these courses, as he won seven of nine amateur nationals in Walton last season — he finished second in the other two races. Wright also participated in a few pro races last year, becoming the first-ever amateur to reach the podium of a professional event — finishing third in mid-July at Gopher Dunes.

Wright has spent the past couple years racing in MX101 Yamaha’s amateur program before joining two other riders in their pro division. One of his teammates, Shawn Robinson, is in his early-mid 20s while the other is not yet signed. There are four professional teams in Canada, each representing a different manufacturer — KTM, Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha.

Dylan’s interest in motocross racing began by chance. Living four minutes from the nearest facility, the family drove by the track when they noticed signage along the road promoting a series of races. Shortly after pulling in to watch, Dylan was hooked.

Bill bought his son a minibike to practice on around the family’s property before he lined up for his first race at the age of five. Dylan continued to play hockey until the major atom division, after which point he decided to discontinue his days on the rink to devout more time, effort and concentration to motocross.

With the guidance of MX101’s instructional schools, Dylan began competing across Canada and the United States, including the Loretta Lynn American Amateur National Motocross Championships — the world’s most prestigious

amateur race series.

Although the Richmond native broke his arm before he could compete in the 65cc class at the age of eight, he made two return trips to Tennessee for the 80cc races in 2009 and in the Schoolboy class in 2012 atop a 125cc bike. He performed well enough to rank among the Top 40 amateur racers in North America.

The year 2012 also marked the season Dylan captured his first Canadian championship, taking the Schoolboy class with his Yamaha YZ 125. During the same season, he was also honoured with the Total Devotion Award, given to the CMRC Walton TransCan Canada Amateur Nationals rider who best overcomes adversity and displays the utmost commitment to the sport on and off the track.

While attracting sponsorships from Yamaha Canada, FOX Canada, EKS goggles and Clark Mechanical, Wright enjoyed a successful season of multiple intermediate championships and the coveted Bronze Boot, granted to the top Canadian amateur for the week of TransCan.

To begin his professional career, Dylan will race Yamaha’s newly-developed 2014 YZ 250F — an electronic fuel injected bike with a new chassis and suspension system.

“I am really excited to sign with Team MX101 Yamaha for the next three years as they are close to home and I have been able to build a good strong relationship with them over the many years I have spent ripping laps around Sand Del Lee,” Wright stated. “I was really surprised to get an offer for three years and am happy it could be with such an amazing team. Becoming a pro is something we all dream about as kids and for this dream to come true is just amazing.”

Dylan is exchanging his well-known amateur racing number of 539 for the number 34 when he starts racing in the MX2 class for 2014.

In preparation for his first pro season, Wright will train on- and off-track in Florida for three weeks starting in late February, followed by additional training in North and South Carolina until the end of April.

Back at home, Dylan undergoes a nutrition and workout regime directed by a trainer with the Ottawa Senators. He averages 20 hours of training each week and once race season begins, he competes at least two weekends per month from May to September.

“Summer is a very busy time for us,” said Bill, who was born and raised in Wheatley before moving in his early 20s. Once per year, Dylan also schedules in some track time at the Erie Ramblers facility southwest of Wheatley on Deer Run Road. He has been featured in multiple Canadian motocross publications, including www.directmotocross.com and www.MXPMag.com.

County Bridge Results

Leamington Half Century Centre, Mon. Mar. 3: North/South - 1st Joyce and Sandy Gammie, 2nd Henry Hildebrandt and Bob Branton, 3rd Marie Ellwood and Vi Major. East/West - 1st Sonia Jackiw and Ernie Jackiw, 2nd Helen Preyde and Nina Towle, 3rd Roger Cote and Frank Duransky. Games are played each Monday at 12:45 p.m. Members and new members welcome. Kingsville Bridge Club, Wed. Mar. 5: North/ South - 1st Bob Branton and Jack Warmenhoven, 2nd Sandy Gammie and Joyce Gammie, 3rd Marilyn Robbins and Joyce Moran. East/West - 1st Chris Brennan and Bill Chaplin, 2nd Ernie Jackiw and Sonia Jackiw, 3rd Henry Hildebrandt and Roger Cote. Bridge takes place every Wednesday at the Lions Hall in Kingsville, 7 p.m. For more info call 519-738-4939.

and husband

Queen of Peace class meets local Olympian

Students from the Grade 8 class at Leamington’s Queen of Peace Catholic Elementary School were special guests at the Domino’s Pizza National Convention held at Caesar’s Palace in Windsor on Tuesday, March 4 where guest speakers included three-time Olympic gold medalist Meghan AgostaMarciano and Coach’s Corner celebrity Don Cherry.

here are the students wearing their autographed Team Canada hockey jerseys with

Earth Day Contest for kids: “Act for the Planet”

Calling all kids! The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) is inviting students to ‘Act for the Planet’ and to tell them about it. ERCA would like to know what actions you take to help improve the environment in your contest submission either in a photograph, an essay, a poem, or drawing.

Do you reduce, reuse and recycle? Are you planting trees and helping teach your friends and family to do the same? Do you conserve water and electricity? Do you encourage your family to get outdoors and connect with the environment? Act for the Planet, and let ERCA know what you’re doing to help make every day Earth Day!

If you attend school in Essex County you are eligible to enter. Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, email address, parents’ name, your grade, and the name of your school with your submission. Submissions should not be copyrighted; by making your submission you are granting ERCA the right to use it on its website or as a part of other ERCA publicity. For other guidelines, please visit the website at

www.erca.org

Entries will be divided into five categories ranging from Kindergarten to Grade 12. The deadline for submission is Friday, April 11, 2014. The winning entry from each category will receive a cool prize package and be honoured for their achievement at Earth Day Tree Planting Celebrations on April 27 when more than 1,800 trees will be planted.

Meghan Agosta-Marciano

Marco Marciano.

This lucky Queen of Peace student was able to see how the gold medal fit around his neck...

Pictured

AgostaMarciano. (Submitted photos)

Flyers prepare for semis

The Leamington Flyers have familiarized themselves with the common five Ws of playoff hockey — win, win, win, win and wait.

After sweeping the St. Marys Lincolns in four straight games in the GOJHL’s Western Conference quarterfinal series, the Flyers’ patience was put to the test as they awaited results from the best-of-seven tilt between the Sarnia Legionnaires and London Nationals — the West’s only Round 1 series to go beyond five games. After the dust had settled in the match-up between the conference’s two biggest cities, the Flyers found that they will be going head-tohead with the Nationals.

London took a 2-0 series lead, fell behind 3-2 then bounced back to eliminate the Legionnaires with another two straight wins.

The quarterfinals came to an end for the Flyers with a 4-0 shutout victory in St. Marys Tuesday, March 4. Leamington blanked the Lincolns in three out of four of the games, with two shutouts for Austyn Roudebush and one for Trevor Wheaton.

Colin Moore opened the scoring for the Flyers with the Game 4-winner about midway through the opening period. Kyle Quick and Eric Henderson added to the lead late in the second while Blaine Bechard finished the scoring with about two-and-a-half minutes remaining in the third. Assists were earned by Cole Chevalier, Eric Henderson, Daniel Robertson (2), Quick, Bechard and Tony Spidalieri.

The Flyers outshot their hosts 46-27, although both teams came up empty-handed on the power play — Leamington was zero for five while St. Marys went zero for three. Lincolns goalie Andrew Masters allowed seven goals on 107 shots through the last two games of the series, good for a .935 save percentage.

The upcoming semifinal series — tentatively to begin Thursday, Mar. 13 at Heinz Arena — will be the second in a row between Leamington and London. Last year, the fourth-place Nationals defeated the second-place Flyers four games to one, starting with 6-2 and 4-1 victories before Leamington took Game 3 4-2. London won Game 4 3-2 before a controversial end to the series with a 4-3 overtime victory in Game 5. During the March 21, 2013 overtime session, the puck appeared to bounce in and out of the London net, but officials allowed the play to continue.

The Nationals went on to win the conference championship four games to one against the first-place Chatham Maroons — their second in a row — then on to claim the Sutherland Cup following a round-robin series with St. Catharines and Cambridge.

“London’s got some quick line and tough, physical defense,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski. “They’ve got a good power play too — we’ll have to play disciplined and stay out of the box. This series could easily come down to special teams.”

During head-to-head play in the 2013-14

regular season, the Flyers went 4-1-1 against the Nats. Leamington started the season with a 5-1 win in London, followed by a 4-3 overtime loss at home, a 6-4 loss on the road, a 3-1victory at Heinz Arena, a 2-1 win in London and a 3-0 shutout victory at home. Through the 49-game regular season, London was the only team to beat the Flyers in overtime at Heinz Arena.

The Nationals finished the main campaign with 150 goals against, second in the Western Conference only to the Flyers, who allowed 120. London scored 188 goals during the regular season, compared to Leamington’s 232.

The Nationals are a team backed by experience, with 12 players taking part in their last eligible year of junior hockey. The Flyers have eight while no other Western team has more than six. London lost a handful of key players to graduating age after winning the Sutherland Cup, but was quick to replace them with equally talented veterans.

“London doesn’t rebuild, they reload,” Piroski noted.

In special teams, London finished fourth among Western clubs on the power play with a 21.35 per cent success rate — the Flyers were second at 23.02 per cent, behind the 27-team GOJHLleading Maroons at 26.72 per cent. On the penalty kill, the Flyers ranked second in the West with a success rate of 82.69 per cent while the Nationals sat fourth at 81.37 per cent. LaSalle led the conference at 84.13 per cent.

Although a new Sutherland Cup format allows the conference finalist with the best playoff winning percentage to be added as a fourth team to the provincial semifinals, Piroski is not focusing on series by series sweeps.

By Bryan Jessop

“I’m happy just to win the series,” he said. Of the 12 opening rounds of GOJHL playoffs, six have ended in 4-0 sweeps — Caledonia over Port Colborne, St. Catharines over Fort Erie, Kitchener over Listowel, Stratford over Cambridge, Leamington over St. Marys and Chatham over Strathroy.

rest of the west

The Maroons eliminated the sixth-place Strathroy Rockets in four straight games. Scores were 5-3, 4-3, 4-1 and 6-5 in overtime. Elsewhere, the second-ranked LaSalle Vipers advanced with a 4-1 series victory against the seventh-place St. Thomas Stars. LaSalle won the first game 3-0 before the Stars evened the series with a 6-3 victory at home. The Vipers replied with wins of 41, 5-0 and 7-3 for the right to advance to the semis and face the Maroons.

David Dalby of the Flyers is challenged by London’s Shawn Crowley as he races behind the Nationals’ net during Game 1 of the 2012-13 Western Conference semifinals. The Nationals won the series and went on to capture the Sutherland

championship. Leamington

Leamington Flyers goalie Austyn Roudebush accepts the Goalie of the Month Award for January from GOJHL Western Conference convenor Mark Tuck before the opening faceoff of a Thursday, Feb. 20 game against Lambton Shores. Roudebush finished January with a 5-0-0 record and two shutouts. Roudebush had two shutouts in the 4-0 sweep of the St. Marys Lincolns in the Western Conference quarterfinals. (Sun photo)

400 volunteers needed for 2014 Ontario 55+ Summer Games

Planning for the 2014 Ontario 55+ Summer Games is well underway. The Games Organizing Committee is looking for keen, responsible volunteers to assist with games-related duties that include registration, sport technical, Opening and Closing ceremonies, medical, and several other important areas within the games.

These games will bring 1,400 participants to the host communities of Windsor and Amherstburg from August 19-21. The competitors are 55 years of age or older, competing in 18 events taking place in 12 different venues.

The 2014 Ontario 55+ Summer Games (formerly Senior Games Actifest) is a Government of Ontario program, delivered by the Sport Alliance Ontario.

Games co-chairs are Tim Beaulieu of Amherstburg and Calvin Little of Windsor.

All volunteers must be able to commit to a minimum 6-hour shift during the event. Attendance at a training session is mandatory in addition to the minimum time commitment. Accreditation, training, orientation and recognition will be offered to chosen volunteers.

To submit your name for consideration, visit www. ontario55plussummergames.com or email info2014@ ontario55plussummergames.com.

Wanted: citizen scientists to survey marshes

Bird Studies Canada (BSC), in partnership with Environment Canada and the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA), is looking for volunteers to be trained as amphibian and/or bird surveyors for wetlands in Windsor and Essex County. Marsh monitoring in the area has been ongoing since 1994 and there are some existing Marsh Monitoring Program (MMP) monitoring routes that are in need of new surveyors.

“The Marsh Monitoring Program provides everyone – from amateur naturalists to professional biologists – a unique and rewarding opportunity to learn about and conserve wetlands,” says Kathy Jones, MMP Volunteer Coordinator with BSC.

If you are interested in learning how to identify amphibians and/or marsh birds and are willing to spend about 10 hours per year monitoring a local wetland, then the MMP may be right for you.

Interested and prospective volunteers are invited attend an MMP Orientation and Training Workshop on Sat. Mar. 22 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Essex Civic Centre in Essex. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Go to www.marshmonitoring.eventbrite.ca to register.

M.D.B. Bulldogs Win Silver at District Competition

The M.D. Bennie girls basketball team captured the silver medal at the District Championships on March 5. Way to go Bulldogs! The gold went to Taylor P.S. The Mount-Carmel Blytheswood girls team placed 4th. M.D. Bennie Bulldogs, front left to right: Susie Hiebert, Jeressa Penales, Zeel Patel, Amy Wall. Back row: Erin Alaers, Macy Featherstone, Jasmine Schmitt, Cassidy Krahn, Ryann Child, Hannah Chacko, Emma Douma, Mr. Jason Douma (coach).

Golden Years mini golf

Last week’s Golden Years mini golf report missed recognizing John Murphy for his remarkable feat of 2 holes-in-one on ‘15’, which is arguably the toughest hole on the course. Congratulations, John! Despite adverse course conditions on March 6, fifty golfers produced 90 aces. Leading the pack with 5 was Bill Mayville, followed closely with 4 each by Art Sweet, Barry Sweet, John Vlodarchyk and Steve Vigh. Sinking 3 each were Iggy Arner, Kathy Bradley, Madeline Butler, Murray Cascadden, Lloyd Honey, Cam Keith, Barb Murphy, Colleen Pearse, Mary Anne Vickery,

Bill Ward and Gerald Wilkinson. Dropping 2 each were Dorothy Cascadden, Eunice Cascadden, Pete Daudlin, Gord Ellis, Murray Hartford, Dorothy Johnson, Andy Orsini, Morley Scratch, Bryon Walker and Eleanor Wilkinson. Rounding out the ace parade with 1 apiece were Jim Allan, Eleanor Brook, Fran Clifford, Cathy Dewhurst, Ila Ellis, Ethel Ferguson, Wanda Hayes, Tony Hudvagner, Tom Hyatt, Eva Kah, Irma Taylor, Rose Taylor, Bill Taylor, Shirley Thiessen, Doug Vickery and Gerrit Vriesen.

Low score for 9 holes with 16 was shared by Bill Mayville and Iggy Arner. Manag-

ing 17 were Bill Ward (2), Barry Sweet, Cam Keith, Colleen Pearse, Pete Daudlin (2), Gerry Wilkinson and John Vlodarchyk.

Sporting 18 was Murray Hartford, Irma Taylor, Murray Cascadden, Andy Orsini, Mary Anne Vickery (2), Iggy Arner, Madeline Butler, Gerrit Vriesen and Tom Hyatt.

Low score for 18 with an excellent 34 went to Bill Ward and Iggy Arner followed closely by Bill Maryville and Gerry Wilkinson with 35 and Barry Sweet with 36. Carding 37 were Murray Hartford, Andy Orsini, Mary Anne Vickery, Gerrit Vriesen, Cam Keith, Tom Hyatt, Pete Daudlin and Gerry Wilkinson.

A score of 72 over 36 holes by Bill Ward and Gerry Wilkinson took low score, followed by Iggy Arner with 73, Barry Sweet, Cam Keith and Pete Daudlin with 75, Gerrit Vriesen with 76, and Bill Mayville and Mary Anne Vickery with 77.

Taking top spot with a team score of 229 was Team 14 (Pete Daudlin, Gerry Wilkinson, Lloyd Honey). Second place with 235 was secured by Team 9 (Cam Keith, Tom Hyatt, Doug Vickery), and 3rd place went to Team Aces with 236 (Irma Taylor, Murray Hartford, Bill Ward, Gord Ellis).

Play resumes with tee off at 9:30 a.m. on Thurs. Mar. 20 at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens.

In partnership with Grade 10 students from LDSS, Gore Hill students from Grades 4 to 8 participated in a special Winter Olympics last week. All activities were conducted in French. Above, students prepare a banner for their selected country in preparation for the athlete parade to mark the opening activities. Left side of table, left to right: Rachel de Vries, Adam McLellan. Right side of table, left to right: Benjamin Fehr, Gage Skjerven, Brooke Driedger, Jasmine Banman, Chloe Jakob, Courtney Jakob. Some of the students in the photo also participated in Crazy Hair Day, a special theme selected for that day.

During the last week prior to the March Break, staff and students participated in a variety of activities like special dress days including Career Day, Crazy Hair Day and Tourist Day, school-wide language and problem-solving activities, and a special “French Winter Olympics” event in partnership with Grade 10 LDSS Core French students.

Gore Hill intermediate students Nickolay Van Veenschoten (front) and Bailey Harder attempt “la luge” (snowboarding), one of the activities planned for students by Grade 10 LDSS students in celebration of “les jeux olympiques”, an event organized for the school last week.

SOUTHPOINT SUN

Call John Cell: 519-324-8860 Pager: 519-563-4165 tf

GOING FAST!

LEAMINGTON LAKEFRONT

Upscale and Affordable in Leamington’s ONLY waterfront rental apartment building overlooking Leamington Marina and Park and minutes from the beach. Amenities include:

library and social rooms

new Smart Card “no coin” laundry

outdoor balconies

• FREE utilities and window coverings

• Fully secured and 24-7 onsite management. Ask us about our limited time “New Tenant” incentives. www.ska-apartmentrentals.com Call Mike or Kevin 519-326-8819

KINGSBRIDGE MANOR IN Kingsville (senior building), 2 bedroom apartment for rent, $680 per month. Fridge, stove, air conditioner included. Elevator in the building. Call 519-326-1577 or 519322-0920. de11-tf

1 BEDROOM CONDO for rent. 44 Robson Rd., Leamington. $750 + utilities. No pets. Call 519-326-5591. se11-tf

LARGE APARTMENT FOR for rent in Leamington, $650 plus utilities. Call 519-6872208 or 519-257-1037. mr12-tf

PRIVATE ROOM FOR rent in a beautiful peaceful home in Kingsville. Common area kitchen/family room with TV and fireplace, bathroom w/tub & shower, washer & dryer to use. Non-smokers please call 519-733-4101. mr5-26

2 BEDROOM HOUSE for rent. $750 per month plus utilities. Available now 519990-2980. mr12

1 BEDROOM APT. for rent, $600 utilities included. Call 519-326-1869. mr12-tf

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. ja15-tf

SENIOR SERVICES FOR Independent Living - health and home maintenance, free consultations, 519-3247872. mr12-19

Repairs

Larry Hart ~ Pest Control Specialist 519-965-4646

NEW FOURPLEX- Lower unit, 3 bedroom, central air, laundry hookup, parking, first and last. Available April 1st. $650 + utilities 519-3249514 mr5-12

HOME FOR RENT - 2 bedrooms, living room, bathroom and eat-in-kitchen. $750 plus utilities. Serious enquiries can fill in application at Leamington GM dealership. no27-tf

INDOOR/OUTDOOR CARPENTRY - Renovations and repairs, windows, doors, painting, flooring, basements, drywall, kitchens and bathrooms, decks, fences and sheds. Free estimates. 35 years experience. Our installation is as good as or better than window and door companies at 1/2 the price. We install windows and doors year round (senior discount). Call for a quote, Bill, 519-566-8408. mr5-26

PRINTING: BUSINESS ENVELOPES,invoices, flyers, business cards, custom print jobs, whatever your printing needs, call Mallory at The Wheatley Journal for quick and economical service. 519-825-4541. tf

skylineliving.ca

THE ESSEX-KENT BLUEGRASS Oldtime & Folk Music Association present the Spinney Brothers from Nova Scotia. In concert at the McGregor K of C Hall, 9560 Walker Rd. Saturday, March 15. Concert starts at 7:00 p.m. Opening band is Prairie Siding & Friends. Tickets: $20 advance; $25 at door. Call 519-776-8716. mr5-12

FULL HOT MEALat UMEI

Auditorium Sunday, March 23 served at 11:30 a.m.1:00 p.m. Mennonite sausage, meatballs, mashed potatoes, salad, buns and dessert. Take-out available. Admission by donation. 614 Mersea Road 6, Leamington, 519-326-7448. mr12-19

1ST ANNUAL

SOUTHSHORE Spring

Sprint 5k Run, Walk, Wheel & Kids 1k Saturday, May 31st at Leamington Marina. For more info and to register go to www.southshorecs.ca. $35 early registration and tshirt guarantee. mr12

Rain Star E31 irrigation reels w/220’ booms & 1500’ hose; high capacity irrigation pump; irrigation pipe; 5000 US gal. water tanker; poly water tank on chassis; two Black Welder tomato harvesters w/all possible updates & field ready; 2 sets trains; 11 tomato wagons; plant trailers; other tomato equip; 2000 Chev Silverado pickup; 1977 Chev cube van for field repair w/equip; 40’ & 20’ storage vans; quantity of parts, tires, etc. All equipment is immaculate, up to date & in excellent condition. No Reserve.

Terms: cash, debit or personalized cheque day of sale. Proprietor: Bob-a-Lou Farms, Mike 519-380-5386 Auctioneer: Jack Morris, 519-687-2530 Details, photos & sale order at www.jackmorrisauctions.com

COMING UP

49TH ANNUAL IODE

Antique & Art Show & Sale

Saturday, March 15,10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, March 16, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, one block west of Heinz Corp. Admission $5. Leading Canadian dealers, handicapped accessible. Sponsored by R. Hon. Sir Winston Churchill Chapter IODE. mr5-12

PRIME RIB DINNER - St.

John the Evangelist, 60 Erie St. N. Leamington. Thursday, March 20, 6:00 p.m. Tickets $25, available from church office, 519-3263111 or by calling 519-3264042. mr5-19

THE TENORS - Thursday, May 22 at the Kinsmen Recreation Complex. Tickets on sale starting March 15. Limited availability. mr12-19

CHILI NIGHT FOR IANFriday, March 21, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at St. John’s Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N. Leamington. Cost: by donation; dessert plates $5-$10, drinks $1. Please come out to enjoy some chili, purchase baked goods and support Ian and his family as he battles cancer. mr5-19

HOW ABOUT A Nice Hot Bowl of Chili? At Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. South, Leamington. Friday, March 21, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Adults $8, children $3. Dessert and beverage included. Take-out avaliable, 519-326-1761. mr12

SOUTHPOINT SUN

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

NOW HIRING

YOGA/PILATES INSTRUCTOR

Experienced and Certified PUSH MOTIVATIONAL FITNESS

17 Division St. S., Kingsville Call 519-819-5437 or email info@pushkingsville.com to set up an interview.

PRESS BRAKE OPERATOR REQUIRED.

EXPERIENCE AN ASSET.

Apply in person to:

Custom Fab. Inc. 5140 Ure Street Oldcastle, ON N0R 1L0 519-737-6631

WELDERS REQUIRED.

EXPERIENCE AN ASSET.

Apply in person to:

Custom Fab. Inc. 5140 Ure Street Oldcastle, ON N0R 1L0 519-737-6631

The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington Marina Lead Hand (Seasonal)

Working in a fast paced environment, this seasonal position of approximately six (6) months is required to assist the Marina Coordinator with day to day activities including reservations, docking/fuelling boats, monitoring staff schedules, assigning work, data entry, financial balancing/reporting while overseeing a shift and providing excellent customer service. For complete details regarding this position’s duties, qualifications and how to apply is available on our website www.leamington.ca.

Application deadline: 4:00 p.m. Monday, March 24, 2014.

WANTED

Wheatley United Church is now accepting applications for part time position of custodian.

Send resume to: Wheatley United Church

Attn: Ministry and Personnel Committee

P.O. Box 652 Wheatley ON N0P 2P0 or email: wheatleyunited@bellnet.ca

Closing date: March 25, 2014

Looking for individual who is experienced in Construction, Restoration & Renovations

• Can work independently

• Reliable

• Own transportation

• Available to be on call and work holidays

• References required

• Knowledge of carpentry, drywall & painting

Only those who are qualified will be contacted.

Bring resume to: 60 Wigle Ave., Kingsville

Farm Labour Wanted

Accepting resumes from individuals willing and able to perform physical/manual field labour for 60 hour weeks at minimum wage in orchard farming business. Use of 7' orchard ladders and lifting 50 LB. is necessary. Outdoor work environment and potentially adverse conditions. Call or email Judy at 519-3269330 or gwfarm@wavedirect.net.

Leamington Mennonite Home Invites Applications For the Part Time Position of MAINTENANCE WORKER

The successful applicant should be experienced in electrical, plumbing, heating and boiler maintenance & repairs. Skills in small engine mechanics and repairs are an asset. Good problem-solving competencies and teamwork are essential. Flexibility in hours is required.

Interested candidates should submit their resume by March 21st, 2014 to:

Amy Clement, Director, Administrative & Environmental Services amy@mennonitehome.ca

Leamington Mennonite Home 35 Pickwick Dr. Leamington, ON N8H 4T5 Phone: 519-326-6109 Fax: 519-326-3595

HEALTH CARE AIDEPermanent part-time, shift work. Must be certified, plus CPR and police clearance. Remit resume by fax to 519733-8552 or email to augustinevillas@yahoo.ca. mr12-19

FOOD PREP/CLEANINGSteady midnights, need Food Safe Handlers certificate. Fax resume to 519733-4173. mr12-19

GENERAL LABOUR GREENHOUSE - minimum wage, 7 days per week. Apply to gojobs4@gmail.com mr12

A,B,C, DZ TRUCK & BUS TRAINING - 7 days per week, one on one. We like to do free estimates to see your driving capabilities and then we estimate approximate price. Call Dennis 519620-4313. fe19-mr12

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 $10.25 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 vegetable 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

Hair Stylist

Wanted

The Hair Cafe in Leamington is seeking a LICENSED HAIRSTYLIST on a chair rental basis. Please call 519-322-0122 to set up a meeting with Shelby or Mel.

BUSY RV & MARINE dealer looking for RV Tech and Boat Mechanic. Contact 519-326-1156 or fax resume to 519-326-6567. oc16-tf

The

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN PETER KLASSEN,

Late of the Town of Kingsville, in the County of Essex and Province of Ontario, Farmer, Deceased

All persons having claims against John Peter Klassen, late of the Village of Cottam, in the Town of Kingsville, County of Essex and Province of Ontario, Farmer who died on or about the 11th day of November, 2013 are notified to send to the undersigned on or before the 11th day of April, 2014 full particulars of their claims. After that date, the Estate Trustee will distribute the assets of the said deceased, having regard only to claims of which they shall then have notice.

DATEDat Leamington, Ontario this 10th day of March, 2014. RICCI, ENNS, ROLLIER & SETTERINGTON LLP

Barristers, etc. 60 Talbot Street West Leamington, Ontario N8H 1M4

Solicitors for the Estate Trustee Did You Know...

Let us quote you on your next

Call

2014 Ontario Renovates Program Windsor Essex Investment in Affordable Housing (IAH) Program

furnace (or the home’s primary heat source) condemned by the governing authority; or repairs mandated by the local municipal Building Department and/or items to improve accessibility in the home. The first $3,500 of the cost of accessibility items is i n the form of a grant, not a loan and does not require repayment. Funding in excess of $3,500 for the cost of accessibility items wil l be in the form of a forgivable loan agreement.

Completed applications are generally processed on a first come first serve basis subject to a regard for a fair distribution of the program funds throughout Windsor and Essex County. The Program expires when program funds are depleted or December 10, 2014, whichever occurs first.

The Ontario Renovates Program Application Form may only be obtained by completing and submitting the Request for Application Form provided below or on the City of Windsor’s website. Applications cannot be picked up at City Hall or at 400 City Hall Square East.

2014 ONTARIO RENOVATES - HOMEOWNER REQUEST FOR

If you have any questions regarding this program, contact the Program Development Officer, Housing Services at (519) 255-5200 Ext. 5349, Ext. 5470 or call 311.

Disclaimer: Details contained herein are for informational purposes only, and are not to be relied upon as a comprehensive or precise representation of the program,