March 29, 2017

Local skater medals at Special Olympics World Winter Games

Bailey-Lopes brings home two golds and a silver!

A little bleary-eyed, a little hoarse and suffering a little jet lag, they were back on the ice Sunday afternoon in Leamington. Yet they were smiling from ear-to-ear.

For figure skating coach Laurie Horne-Klassen and her Special Olympics athlete Adelina Bailey-Lopes, it was a magical homecoming for the pair.

Adelina, a 17-year-old Cardinal Carter Secondary School student, was hoping for a trip to the podium during the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria, which she arrived home from at 3 a.m. Sunday morning, but the reality was even better than she could have ever dreamed.

Not only did Adelina win gold in her Level 5 freestyle and Level 4 dance, she also brought home a silver medal following a decision for a group of skaters to compete in an off-ice dance routine.

“It was a real bonus,” said her coach, “to bring home three medals.”

Still hoarse from cheering on her protégé, Horne-Klassen, said she couldn’t be more proud of Adelina.

Despite a slight case of nerves before the competition, Adelina said they disappeared once she stepped foot on the ice.

Unfortunately, her coach can’t say the same. “I was more nervous than I’ve ever been,” said Horne-Klassen, “my stomach was in knots.”

But they couldn’t have been happier that Adelina saved her best performance for the big stage.

“I can’t believe I won gold,” she said, “because I fell.”

But she said she must have made up for it with her other

Golden moment

skills — especially spinning. “I did my best solo ever,” she said proudly, “especially my spins.”

Adelina said the trip was awesome, especially sightseeing through her tiny host village before the competition. She also became a huge fan of German cuisine.

For Horne-Klassen, the camaraderie, support and family atmosphere of Team Canada was phenomenal —something she’ll never forget.

It also included a rather unique and memorable birthday celebration for the coach, one that took her to a mountaintop and for a special lunch in a tiny Austrian village.

While the coach and the student reveled in their success amidst the hugs and congratulations of Adelina’s fellow skaters, Laurie said it was certainly a team effort. She said without Susan Bremner, Kim Hickson-Grineau, Vicki Bellaire and trainers Pat Chittle and Jonathon Shanahan, such a successful outcome would not have been possible.

As for the future, Adelina said she’s not sure if she’ll be able to continue with the intensive schedule needed to compete at this level. She said her main focus will be working toward her future career and will be attending St. Clair College to become a hairstylist.

Horne-Klassen said anyone wishing to see Adelina’s ‘Worlds’ gold medal solo can see it at this year’s Leamington Skating Club’s annual carnival on April 8 with two shows, 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Special Olympian Adelina Bailey-Lopes returned from the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria early Sunday morning, Mar. 26. She was back on the ice Sunday afternoon, able to show off two gold medals and a silver medal.

Three-time Olympic gold medalist Meghan Agosta took time out before Team Canada’s game on Sunday, Mar. 26 to congratulate gold and silver medalist Adelina Bailey-Lopes on her success. (Story and photos of national women’s hockey team on pages 13 and 17)

Leamington Council news Council hears update on mental health

Claudia den Boer, CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Windsor-Essex, was present Monday evening as a delegation before Municipal Council to update them on the ongoing efforts being made to improve the mental health treatment climate in the area.

Ms. den Boer opened her presentation with some simple statistics that highlight the importance of mental health care in Canada and locally: in any given week it is estimated that 500,000 people didn’t go to work because of mental illness, and that the annual economic impact of mental illness is in the range of $51 billion. This past year, there were over 5,200 individuals in Windsor-Essex who sought and received mental health care.

Five employees of the Mental Health Association provide their services in person in Leamington Monday through Friday, while many more of the 151 staff of the Mental Health Association provide long-distance service via telephone and internet interaction. Individuals in Leamington are able to access the program through the hospital, through the South Essex Community Council, through family physicians, and by telephone to get navigation assistance.

Both Claudia den Boer and her colleague Kim Willis emphasized their enthusiasm for proposed Mental Health Round Table meetings to help break down planning and service silos and to bring community leaders together to help identify needs and gaps in service in the rural areas. They stressed their interest in involving the Leamington community in improvement meetings.

Exemption from part lot control

The developer of Southwinds Estate Subdivision has applied to extend exemption of lots 53 through 60 from the provisions of part lot control so that 12 townhouse and 4 semi-detached housing units can be built. Their previous exemption expired in December of 2016.

Council hears objection to public works project

The reconstruction of Erie St. S. from Askew to Oak includes a major sewer separation component that is being done under local improvements provisions. Whenever there is an objection to the special charge assessed against properties included among the local improvements, a hearing can be held by a Committee of Revision once the work is done but before the charge is levied. Two objections were considered by the committee (made up of members of Municipal Council) on the evening of Monday, March 27.

This committee is not given a free hand to change charges any way it wishes. The regulation (586-06,

Section 24) is explicit that the committee can only review the proposed local improvement roll and correct a limited list of factual errors. Any increase or decrease of a special charge must be predicated on a “just and equitable” resolution, also laid out in Sections 16 and 17.

Correspondent erty. Similarly, the Drainage Superintendent no longer needs Council permission to authorize and execute mutual drain agreements under Section 2 of the Drainage Act.

The cost for the new sanitary sewer is charged per metre of frontage against each lot ($306 m). In addition, connection to the sanitary service is charged at a flat rate of $1,329 per connection. There are two additional charges made: 15% of the construction cost for engineering, and interest if the charge is paid to the municipality over 10 years. This averages out to about $9,500 [median value].

Present at the committee meeting to protest his assessment was a resident who was under the impression that he was being charged for the repair and reconstruction of the road. It was pointed out to him that he is paying only for sanitary sewer and connection to the sewer, and the charge is only a portion of the sewer’s actual cost. Since the committee has no authority to change the assessment, it was forced to dismiss the objections and the schedule of assessment became fixed.

More authority to be delegated to senior administration

There are myriad administrative tasks involved in running a municipality, and not many of them absolutely must be brought before Municipal Council for a decision. That is why Leamington Municipal Council has begun the process of formally delegating powers to senior employees of the Corporation who are involved on a day-to-day basis with the matter.

An example from the Monday, March 27 Council meeting was the decision to delegate assessment appeals to the treasurer. It is the Municipal Treasurer who first encounters assessments of properties that appear to be mistakes. Now the treasurer does not need to come before Council to appeal to the Assessment Review Board when it appears that the municipality is supporting an under-assessed prop-

Suspicious person and vehicle reported

The Leamington OPP is investigating a report of a suspicious person in the area of two local schools.

On February 28 at approximately 3:30 p.m. in the vicinity of Queen Elizabeth School on Maxon Ave., a young boy was approached by a man in a white vehicle, offering the child a ride.

On March 20, at approximately 3:00 p.m. near Mill Street Public School on Mill St. E., another young boy was approached by a man who investigators believe to be the same driver and vehicle.

The vehicle is described as a white 4-door. The lone occupant is described as a white male, in his late 20’s to early 30s.

Anyone with information regarding the identity of the person(s) and/or vehicle described should immediately contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 519-326-2544 or 1-888-310-1122.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.

In total, there are about 40 specific powers that Municipal Council has now delegated to senior administration, from the specific — the Fire Chief has the power to designate fire routes under his own authority — to the general —Directors of Departments can execute all documents to draw upon funds granted for projects managed under their department by upper levels of government.

Canadian contingent is stronger this year

What a difference a year makes, apparently.

Last year at this time, all seven Canadian NHL teams were sitting outside of the Stanley Cup playoffs looking in.

Ottawa had the most points of any of the Canadian teams and they fell at least 10 points short of garnering a wild card spot.

straight games to the Montreal Canadiens in the final. You’re welcome, Habs fans.

As of press time this week, five of the seven teams were within a playoff position heading into the final two weeks of regular competition.

The closest the Leafs came in those days was in 1978, when the Roger Nielsoncoached team took out the heavily favoured New York Islanders in the quarter-finals, only to fall to the Habs in the semi-finals in straight games. Montreal went on to win their third straight Cup, beating Boston in the finals.

In the most precarious position, of course, are my Leafs, but just the fact that they are contending for a spot, puts their rebuild way ahead of schedule and will give the fans of the blue-and-white something to talk about for years to come.

Suddenly, that colossal collapse in Boston four years ago seems like a distant memory.

Of course, as I write this column, fans are awaiting word on the extent of goalie Fredrik Andersen’s injury. The Leafs’ playoff hopes hang in the balance.

Hopefully I haven’t jinxed their chances by writing about them again. It’s happened before.

Fast forward many years to the 1993 conference finals, where the Leafs looked poised to finally compete for the Cup. Enter Kerry Fraser and his non-call when Gretzky high sticked Doug Gilmour during overtime of Game Six. The Leafs, at the time, led the series 3-2 and may have been able to capitalize on the ensuing powerplay. After beating out the Red Wings and Blues, they looked like they could finally get that monkey off their back.

It wasn’t to be, as Gretzky remained on the ice and scored the overtime winner, sending the series back to Toronto, where the Great One scored a hat trick and sent the Leafs to the golf course yet again.

Gretzky’s Kings went on to lose to Montreal in the finals.

My love for the Leafs began as a young child, rooting on the likes of Ron Ellis, Norm Ullman and my all-time Maple Leaf favourite, Dave Keon. That 1967 cup-winning team was a beauty and with the dismantling that came after, one for the ages.

Unlike others throughout the years, who’ve jumped from the Leafs wagon, I remained, often times doubting myself but holding true to my team, through good times and bad.

The good times were few and far between.

I definitely see a theme here. The Habs happened to be a beneficiary of the Leafs troubles at different times during this 50-year drought.

Who knows, maybe if the Leafs can hang on to a playoff spot in this last stretch, we can see a Toronto-Montreal series again like the old days.

There was the Red Kelly pyramid power series in 1976 against the Philadelphia Flyers. I made my own pyramid out of tin foil and sat it close to the TV for every game, hoping that the pyramid would allow my team to upset the defending champs. Alas, the power of Kate Smith’s God Bless America finally defeated the pyramid scheme in seven games and the Flyers went to the Cup final once again.

That would certainly be a classic, but my team has to get to the playoffs first.

And facing Carey Price will be no picnic, so maybe its best to let that sleeping dog lie.

I’d like to believe that the power of the pyramid that year at least slowed down the Broad Street Bullies. They fell in

As for those other Canadian teams, it looks like only Winnipeg and Vancouver will be left out this year. That is, unless I’ve totally jinxed the Leafs with this column.

It might be time to get the tin foil out and do my part.

1971 Plymouth Duster had unusual license plates

Irvin Witt of Leamington purchased a new metallic blue 1971 Plymouth Duster from Bert Mastronardi Motors at Erie and Russell (formerly Sunparlour Motors) in May 1971 on special order: no FM radio, no chrome, 318 V8, automatic transmission, and Positraction.

Irvin got married in 1971 and he and his bride drove to Alberta to visit his four brothers on their honeymoon. It cost $40 in gas to drive out there through the U.S. and $46 coming home along the Trans Canada Highway.

On that trip, the engine changed colour. The driver’s side remained factory blue but the passenger side of the engine turned grey. Irvin took the car back to the dealer after their trip. The heads were pulled off to reveal that the water holes in the head gasket on the passenger side had not been punched out on the assembly line, making that side run hotter and changing the colour from blue to grey. A new head gasket was installed and the problem was solved.

all motorists to register their cars and display their registration number on their car. This meant they had to make their own plates. Joe Morris of Edmonton was the first to register and displayed #1 with a broomstick attached vertically to his 1903 Ford. He was arrested and brought into court, where he insisted that the broomstick was the same shape as #1. The court agreed with him and let him go. His car became known as the “broomstick Ford.”

I’m always looking for more stories. Email billtsherk@ sympatico.ca or write Bill Sherk, 25 John St., P.O. Box 255, Leamington, ON N8H 3W2.

Two years later, the 1973 plates came out. Irvin picked them up (CNX.533) but there was a problem. The numbers and letters were upside-down!

Mrs. Kennedy at the local license office said: “We can exchange these at no cost to you or you can keep them as collector’s items.” Irvin decided to keep them and put them on his car with the big letters and numbers rightside-up. This meant that “Ontario” and “Keep It Beautiful” were upside-down.

After 1973, an annual sticker made it possible for Irvin to drive his car with these unusual plates for the next 13 years, right up to when rust forced him to call Quick’s Auto Wreckers to scrap the car after 78,000 miles and still running. Irvin removed the plates before his car was towed away and he still has them.

While driving his Duster with the upside-down plates, Leamington police officer Norm Jones followed Irvin home and then started laughing. Irvin said: “You didn’t see anything.” Then the officer left. It was the only time Irvin’s plates attracted the attention of the police.

One good license plate story deserves another. The new province of Alberta passed a law in 1906 that required

car is gone but Irvin Witt still has the license plates.

MARK RIBBLE Rib’s Ramblings

Lake Erie Committee recommends increased yellow perch, pickerel 13% increase for yellow perch; 20% increase for pickerel

Fishery managers from Ontario, Michigan, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania — the five jurisdictions that manage the Lake Erie fishery — agreed to a total allowable catch (TAC) of 10.375 million pounds of yellow perch and 5.924 million pickerel (walleye) for 2017. Yellow perch are allocated in pounds and pickerel are allocated by number of fish. These TAC recommendations represent a 13% increase for yellow perch and a 20% increase for pickerel. Specific allocations of both species are presented below by jurisdiction.

The Lake Erie Committee’s TAC recommendations are produced after extensive, lakewide biological assessments, analyses, discussions, and consultations with stakeholders. The recommendations are consistent with the status of Lake Erie’s fish populations, taking into the account the goal of stable harvest.

Overall, the Lake Erie Committee believes that yellow perch populations are stable, though stock status varies by basin and, thus, the TAC varies across management units. In contrast, pickerel populations are managed as a single stock and are increasing lakewide. These conditions support the recommended increases to the yellow perch and pickerel TACs. The individual provincial and state governments adhere to and implement the TAC recommendations consistent with their respective regulations and management objectives.

The Lake Erie Committee operates by consensus and relies on biological assessments to inform their TAC recommendations. The Lake Erie Committee also supports the Lake Erie Percid Management Advisory Group, or LEPMAG, a structured process that engages commercial and recreational fishers. LEPMAG, which has existed since 2010, reflects the committee’s interest in involving the fishing community in actions related to management of Lake Erie’s percid fisheries.

YELLOW PERCH

The proposed yellow perch TAC is the result of deliberations among the jurisdictions and with stakeholders through the LEPMAG process. Based on science and those deliberations, the Lake Erie Committee recommended a 2017 TAC of 10.375 million pounds of yellow perch, a 13% increase

from last year’s allocation of 9.208 million pounds.

The five jurisdictions on the lake share Lake Erie’s yellow perch under an area-based formula. Pursuant to the 2017 TAC recommendation, Ontario will receive 4.868 million pounds, Ohio 4.525 million pounds, Michigan 0.279 million pounds, New York 0.093 million pounds, and Pennsylvania 0.611 million pounds.

The yellow perch fishery is divided into “management units,” which generally correspond to the eastern, central and western basins of Lake Erie. The Lake Erie Committee has strived to maintain harvest stability while still responding to changing trends in each management unit. The proposed TAC represents nuances among the management units in abundance and biomass.

PICKEREL

The Lake Erie Committee set a 2017 pickerel (walleye) TAC of 5.924 million fish, a 20% increase over the 2016 TAC of 4.937 million fish. The increased TAC recommendation reflects the strength of the pickerel population and the committee’s goal to manage the lakewide fish stock sustainably while integrating stakeholder input into the process. Positive recruitment during the previous few years will translate into increasing pickerel abundance over the coming years. Consistent with the committee’s Walleye Management Plan, this optimistic outlook for walleye allows for the maximum increase in the TAC for 2017.

The Province of Ontario and the states of Ohio and Michigan share the TAC based on a formula of walleye habitat within each jurisdiction in the western and central basins of the lake. Under a 2017 TAC of 5.924 million fish, Ohio will be entitled to 3.028 million fish, Ontario 2.551 million fish, and Michigan 0.345 million fish. Jurisdictions in the eastern end of the lake are outside of the TAC area and harvest limits there are set consistent with lakewide conditions and objectives.

As with yellow perch, the pickerel TAC recommendation is the result of extensive discussions among scientists, managers, and stakeholders. Scientists and field biologists from all Lake Erie jurisdictions, meeting as the Walleye Task Group, share data and reach consensus on biological conditions. The task group’s walleye abundance estimates,

which incorporate suggestions from LEPMAG, serve as the foundation for the Lake Erie Committee’s discussions and TAC recommendations. Also like yellow perch, each Lake Erie jurisdiction is responsible for implementing its portion of the TAC.

Tenders awarded for roads

At the March 27 meeting, administration recommended to Leamington Municipal Council the award of two tenders received for the 2017 surface treatment and gravel road elimination program.

The successful bidder was Shepley Road Maintenance in the amount of $734,067 (plus HST) to tar and chip Mersea Rd. D from County Rd. 33 to Mersea Rd. 19 and paving Mersea Rd. 19 from Mersea Rd. C to Mersea Rd. E.

(Wheatley Harbour Authority File Photo)

LDMH and Essex County OPP introduce new partnership

Safer and more expedient transfer of patients in contact with police under the Mental Health Act

A new partnership was introduced last week, March 22, at Leamington District Memorial Hospital — one between the hospital and the Essex County OPP.

It’s a partnership that just makes sense, according to the parties involved.

It’s a partnership that will allow officers and health care workers to do the jobs they were trained to do.

And with the dramatic increase in emergency calls under the Mental Health Act in the past few years, it’s a partnership that will allow officers to spend more time on the streets and less time waiting in the hospital.

Under the new transfer of care memorandum of agreement, it is expected a safer and more expedient transfer of patients in contact with the police under the Mental Health Act — safer for the patient, the police officer, hospital staff and other hospital patients, according to Essex County OPP Inspector Glenn Miller.

Miller said the number of mental health related emergency calls to police skyrocketed from 45 calls in 2007,

peaking at 242 in 2015 and decreasing slightly to 214 in 2016.

“We’re changing the way police and health care professionals work together to assist those in crisis or distress,” said Miller.

He said under this agreement, the police officers will do what they are trained to do and will hand off those suffering with mental health crises to the real experts at the hospital. “We need to be progressive and cost effective,” he said.

Miller said it will take a collective effort to improve the mental health wellness in the community.

“No single organization can solve a community’s problems,” he added. “Everybody has limited resources and if we work together we can do amazing things.”

Cheryl Deter, Vice President, Chief Nursing Official at LDMH, said organizations have had to push the reset button and work together and “put to death the word turf.” She said the future is in partnerships — some with somewhat unusual partners.

Blake Cohoe is the constable selected to the Mental Health Response Unit in Leamington which was formed in 2015.

A social worker, like Sherry Metivier, is paired up with officers such as Cohoe.

Leamington District Memorial Hospital Seeks Volunteers For their Board of Directors

Leamington District Memorial Hospital’s Board of Directors is seeking applicants to fill two vacancies on the Board of Directors. Responsibilities of the Board of Directors include the governing and management of hospital affairs consistent with the Public Hospitals Act, the Hospital Management and regulations thereunder an other application. Members are required to attend monthly Board of Directors meeting as well as various monthly Committees of the Board meetings.

The Board of Directors of Leamington District Memorial Hospital strives to reflect the diversity of Windsor and Essex County, both in its ethnocultural mix and range of skills and experience. In particular, Francophones and members of visible minorities are encouraged to apply.

Employees of Leamington District Memorial Hospital and their immediate families are not eligible.

If you are interested in being considered for a position on the Board of Directors, you are requested to submit your name and complete contact information to Lise Peterson, either by fax or email only, no later than April 15, 2017. An application form, with instructions, will be forwarded to you at that time.

Chair of the Nominating Committee

c/o Lise Peterson

Leamington District Memorial Hospital

194 Talbot Street West

Leamington, Ontario

N8H 1N9

Fax 519-322-3829 or email lise.peterson@ldmh.org

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted

The mental health crisis worker has worked with the MHRU since its inception in 2012. Over the years, she said, they learned what works during a coordinated response with a patient in crisis.

Metivier said their efforts have not gone unnoticed: the MHRU has already won provincial awards for its efforts.

Last June the Essex County Mental Health Response Unit was awarded the prestigious Amethyst

Award for forming the unit in 2012 as a collaborative effort in responding to calls from citizens impacted by mental health care challenges.

The Amethyst Awards recognize individuals or groups in the Ontario Public Service who have made outstanding contributions in service, innovation and those who strive to make a real positive difference for Ontario families.

From left to right, Blake Cohoe of the Leamington OPP Mental Health Response Unit, Cheryl Deter, LDMH Chief Nursing Official, and Sherry Metivier, Mental Health Crisis Worker, are key members of the latest partnership between the local hospital and the OPP.

OPP Inspector Glenn Miller explains the police officer’s role in the new transfer of care memorandum of agreement with Leamington District Memorial Hospital at a press conference last week.

Retirement residence to open soon

The need to relocate as personal care needs change will not be a concern for future residents of a new complex in Leamington, in a ‘Manor’ of speaking.

The Seacliff Manor Retirement Residence introduced its general manager Sara Cusenza to the general public Thursday, March 23 with two gatherings hosted by The Roma Club. The meet and greet sessions — drawing a combined crowd of about 50 interested guests — also featured presentations on the amenities and services the new complex will offer residents and a question and answer period for those in attendance.

Cusenza highlighted what she described as a unique feature to Seacliff Manor, a residence offering accommodations for independent retirement home living residents as well as assisted living supports and memory care services for those with health concerns or limited mobility that impede the routine activities of daily living. In the early stages of her presentations, she noted that most multi-unit homes established for seniors offer one or the other, often forcing a move from a retirement home to a long term care centre once a resident’s ability to care for his or herself has declined.

“Retirement residences usually have some restrictions on how much care they can provide related to mobility or memory loss in some specialized in-care memory services,” explained Cusenza, who is backed by a degree in Gerontology and nearly 20 years of experience in working with senior living services. “Seacliff Manor has been designed with flexibility in service levels and support. We offer a unique ability to transition care services with an individual and provide professional and unique care supports depending on the conditions.”

The second floor of the Manor will be dedicated to assisted living and memory care, with staff dedication per resident depending on specific individual needs. In total, Seacliff Manor’s four stories will contain 117 residences. Leamington-based developer Rob Piroli of Piroli Group Developments — which also created the adjacent Seacliff Heights upscale apartments — is constructing Seacliff Manor to include multiple residency options for seniors including spacious studio, one bedroom, one bedroom with

den and two-bedroom options. The surface area of larger units exceeds 800 square feet.

To implement the site’s vision of full services, Piroli formed a management partnership with London, Ont.based Sifton Properties Ltd., which also manages similar residences in Dorchester, Mississauga, Waterloo and two in London. So far, initial deposits have been made to be included in the Early Bird VIP Club which allows depositors exclusive invites to upcoming events, preview informational updates, and preferred suite selection and Early Bird pricing. Cusenza noted that much of the interest has come from seniors already living in the Leamington area, but interest and deposits are also coming from beyond the community.

“The inquiries are coming from everywhere,” she said, explaining that she has fielded interest from people currently living in Wheatley, Tilbury, Windsor and as far east as Toronto. “People are drawn to the amazing view and the nice weather we get here in the summer. A lot of people are very excited about the opening. The service model we are offering is specialized and unique, just like our residents.”

Construction of the Seacliff Manor Retirement Residence is on schedule with an official opening pegged for early September of this year and actual model suites anticipated for later this spring. Once complete, the site will also include a crafts centre, game room, religious services, theatre, doctor’s office, fitness club, spa, salon and a licensed lounge to be dubbed The Spiked Tomato.

For more information on Seacliff Manor, call 519-3262624, e-mail Cusenza at sara.cusenza@seacliffmanor.ca or visit the website www.seacliffmanor.ca.

Seacliff Manor general manager Sara Cusenza discusses the amenities of the soon-to-open retirement living facility during a public meeting hosted by The Roma Club Thursday, March 23. Model suites will be available for viewing in late May or early June of this year. Currently, 20 per cent of the 117 units have received deposits as reservation for rental.

Members of the Windsor Detroit Farm Animal Save hold a daytime vigil along the front entrance at Gord’s Abattoir on the morning of Friday, March 24. The gathering was the second for the new group, which held a similar event in early February at Weston’s Abattoir on North Talbot Road in Maidstone. The vigil in Leamington was attended by activists from Windsor, Ohio and the Niagara region. The Windsor Detroit chapter is one of more than 120 ‘Save’ animal liberation groups — which formed about five years ago — across the globe.

Blood drive calls on residents to donate in memory of toddler

William Desborough received several blood and platelet transfusions while being treated for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. He lost his battle and passed away in April 2010, just before his second birthday. William continues to be a superhero to all of us. William’s family is encouraging you to be a hero and donate blood in his memory to help patients in need of blood and blood products.

Canadian Blood Services is holding a blood donor clinic on Wednesday, April 5 from 1:00-7:00 .m. and the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, 249 Sherk St.

OPP complete 117 packages at I.D. clinic

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), the Kingsville Community Policing Committee (KCPC) and the Masonic (CHIPS) digital finger printing organization hosted a free fingerprinting and identification clinic on Sunday, March 26 at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens. There were 117 digital fingerprint and identification packages completed for local families in a three-hour window. The event was extremely busy for the six KCPC members, six OPP auxiliary members and two uniformed OPP officers.

The event took place in conjunction with a “Lock It Or Lose It” campaign held just prior

to the event by OPP Auxiliary members who identified several unlocked vehicles.

Thursday, March 23 the Kingsville Knights of Columbus presented the Leamington District Memorial Hospital Foundation with a donation of $10,000 for the Erie Shores Hospice Campus. The group raised the funds at their 32nd Annual Wild Game Dinner held March 4 at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens. Pictured, Ross Barnwell (far left) of the LDMH Foundation accepts the cheque from members of the Kingsville Knights of Columbus. The funds will go towards supporting operational costs at the Erie Shores Hospice Campus located in Leamington.

Special Displays Unveil “The Secret Education”

Last week, Ms. Sales’ Grade 5/6 class at Gore Hill Public School invited staff, students, parents and other members of the community to a special display in the school library where they unveiled “The Secret Education” that lurks behind some favourite cartoon characters. Students examined a variety of cartoons, looking critically for examples of bias and stereotypes. Through the use of this critical lens, students learned how cartoon and other media send messages about how to be, how to act and what we should value. Pictured, students Hunter Enns (left), Jak Thiessen and Xander Harder prepared a display explaining some of the biases and stereotypes found in the popular Disney film “Aladdin”. (Submitted photo)

in the in the in the in the in the

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, take your time on a particular project that requires more than just a cursory glance Enlist the help of a partner or coworker if you need assistance

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, if your patience is in short supply, hunker down and try to ride out the week You can make it through if you keep your eyes on the prize

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, romantic gestures may need to be put on hold until you can devote enough time to treating that special someone in the right fashion This will give you more time for planning

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, pretty soon your schedule could be upended and you will have to find new coping mechanisms It might be a struggle in the beginning, but soon you will bounce back

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23

Take a few moments to unwind when you can, Leo It has been a busy time for you and you need to seek respite whenever you can -- even if it's only for a few minutes

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22

Think ahead to later in the week, Virgo Do you have important plans? Try not to burn the candle at both ends now so you can have more energy down the road

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, you may be called upon to take a leadership role or start making more of the tough decisions in a relationship You have to contribute as much as possible

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, even if you cannot see the finish line just yet, realize it is just over the horizon Your hard work will be well worth the effort

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, when someone calls upon you for assistance, jump as quickly as you can Others know they can count on you to be supportive and quick to support

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20

A situation at home that has been on your mind finally resolves itself, Capricorn You can breathe a little easier knowing there is one less challenge you have to face

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, with others continually counting on you for answers, you may be hesitant to ask some questions of your own But speak up, especially if you feel overwhelmed in any way

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20

Creativity takes center stage for you this week, Pisces You may put a clever spin on decorating or finally dabble in a new hobby

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

APRIL 2

Clark Gregg, Actor (55)

APRIL 3

Colbie Smulders, Actress (35)

APRIL 4

Robert Downey Jr , Actor (52)

APRIL 5

Lily James, Actress (28)

APRIL 6

Candace Cameron-Bure, Actress (41)

APRIL 7

Bill Bellamy, Actor (52)

APRIL 8

Matthew Healy, Singer (28)

Cougar Robotics prepare for competition

By Hannah Iacobelli, Cougar Robotics

Team Captain

Cougar Robotics, the robotics team at Cardinal Carter Secondary School, is gearing up for two upcoming robotics competitions. This weekend the team will compete in the Windsor Essex Great Lakes Regional First Robotics competition to be held at the University of Windsor. They will then take their robot on the road to participate in another competition in North Bay in early April.

For the past 8 weeks, students have worked together with mentors from the community to create a fully functioning robot, moving it from design to reality. The project gives students a chance to learn from professional engineers and industry experts how to use sophisticated

hardware and software and learn about design, project management, programming, teamwork, strategic thinking and competition.

The team recently received funding support from multiple local sponsors. South Essex Fabricating, FCA,

THE SALVATION ARMY LEAMINGTON CC YOUTH DROP-IN CENTRE open every Tuesdsay, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the church, 88 Setterington St. The centre provides a safe supervised location and use of our computer lab, movies, videogames or table tennis etc. For more info contact us at 519-326-4901.

SAFETALK™ SUICIDE AWARENESS TRAINING WORKSHOPS

- Wednesday, March 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00, 6 Mill St. W., Leamington. safeTALK™ is a half-day alertness training session that prepares anyone over the age of 15, regardless of prior experience or training, to become a suicide-alert helper. Most people with thoughts of suicide don’t truly want to die, but are struggling with the pain in their lives. Through their words and actions, they invite help to stay alive. safeTALK-trained helpers can recognize these invitations and take action by connecting them with life-saving intervention resources. Register for an upcoming workshop (space is limited) or more information can contact t Renee Daudlin-Iacobelli at 519-322-1443 ext. 3100 or rdaudlin@insightadvantage.ca

LEAMINGTON BLOOD DONOR CLINIC at Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, Wednesday, April 5, 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. New Donors and Walk Ins Welcome! To book an appointment, please contact us at 1-888-236-6283 / www.blood.ca / GiveBlood App

55TH ANNUAL MENNONITE HIGH SCHOOL CHORAL MUSIC FESTIVAL “Witness” - Sunday, April 9 starting at 4:00 p.m. at UMEI Christian High School, 614 Mersea Rd. 6, Leamington. Freewill offering.

LEAMINGTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETS Wednesday, April 19 at 7:30 p.m. at Leamington United Church, 9 John St. Speaker: Rob Davies from ERCA. Topic: Plant Propagation of Carolinian Trees. All are welcome for an evening of horticultural fellowship. More info: Peter Scorrar 519-326-8529.

RUMMAGE SALE, Leamington United Church, 9 John St., on Friday, April 21 from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 22 from 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon.

ONT. PURPLE MARTIN ASSOCIATION MEETING - Saturday, April 22, 9:00 a.m., at Orchard View Golf Course,1357 County Rd. 34, Ruthven. Come out and learn about these amazing birds. Everyone is welcome. Info: Paul 519-738-3476.

SOUTH SHORE HEALTH CENTRE OFFERS WEEKLY FREE RECOVERY PROGRAMS, 15 John St. (upstairs), Leamington: Yoga for Recovery on Monday at 5:00 p.m. with Melodie Queenen; Westover Recovery Support Group on Monday at 6:30 p.m.; SMART Recovery on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.; Family & Friends on Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

Horticultural Society gearing up for spring

By Catherine Riediger

As I prepare this article, it is the first day of Spring and the weather is demonstrating the characteristics of rain, cloudy and cool. As I view my daffodils peeking through the ground and red-winged black birds and robins visiting my backyard feeders and heated birdbaths, it is a promise of things to come.

The Leamington Horticultural Society is also busy planning for things to come. They will be hosting the AGM Spring Conference on April 29th at St. John’s Anglican Church. The Annual Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, May 13 at Leamington United Church.

The Planting Committee and municipal staff have decided the colour scheme for the planters, flower beds and baskets will reflect Canada’s 150th Anniversary.

The Cannova Bronze Scarlet Canna has been chosen as Leamington’s 2017 Flower of the Year and will be incorporated into plantings throughout the Municipality to enhance a red and white planting scheme.

Rotary Club of Leamington and St. Clair College all contributed financially to help the team in its robot building efforts and helped Cougar Robotics sustain the team and maintain a competitive edge.

SOUTHWEST OUTDOORS CLUB MEETS the second Tuesday of every month (except August) in the upstairs hall of the Wheatley Legion starting at 7:00 p.m.

DO YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW HAVE PARKINSON’S?

Parkinson’s Support Group meets every Tuesday from 10:30 a.m.-12 noon at Leamington Half Century Centre, 160 Talbot St. E. Facilitators: Bob Prince and Laurie Stone. Note: Individuals are encouraged to call 1-888-851-7376 before attending their first meeting.

WINDSOR-ESSEX COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE, 33 PRINCESS ST. IN LEAMINGTON, IS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS who are interested in supporting young children Monday mornings and afternoons, 9:45 a.m. - 12:00 noon or 12:30 - 3:00 p.m.. Contact Volunteer Coordinator Dodie Wilson 519-253-8481 ext. 226.

VOLUNTEER TUTORS NEEDED. Are you a retired teacher or just enjoy working with youth? The On Track to Success Program is looking for volunteers to support high school students in Leamington with learning. Tutoring sessions are Monday to Thursday after school and in the evenings. Orientation and training provided. For more info contact Liam GIles-Hayes 519-258-0000 ext. 1181 or lgileshayes@ weareunited.com

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEED FOR BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS Windsor-Essex from the Leamington and Kingsville area. If you believe that you can make a difference in a child’s life and can commit to a minimum of one year, for a few hours a week, check out the website and online orientation at www.bigbrothersbigsisterswe.ca.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS WINDSOR-ESSEX ARE LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS from the Leamington area to volunteer in a group mentoring setting called On Track to Success which takes place from September to June. Info at www.bigbrothersbigsisterswe. ca/ or call 519-945-5232 ext. 23 to speak with Rose Culmone, Director of Programs.

ARE YOU AFFECTED BY SOMEONE ELSE’S DRINKING? The Wheatley Serenity Al-Anon Family Group meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the Wheatley Friendship Club (north entrance), 171 Erie St. N.

PREGNANCY & RESOURCE CENTRE, 33 Princess St. (Central 33) Suite 212, Leamington, offers free and confidential services provided by registered nurses and trained volunteers. Free pregnancy tests. Call 24/7 for free and confidential support - 519-326-0612. Business calls: 519-326-3821.

Community Calendar is a FREE service for FREE events. Please see the COMING EVENTS section in the CLASSIFIEDS for events with admission charges.

Species: Canna Cannova Bronze Scarlet - Canna x generalis.

Growing Habitat: Plant in full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight).

Spacing: 7-10 inches apart (18-25 cm).

Grows: 30-48 inches tall (76-122 cm) by 14-22 inches wide (36-51 cm).

Blooming Season: Late spring, summer, and late summer.

Requirements: Evenly moist and well-drained soil, and bi-weekly fertilizing for optimal growth.

Cannova Bronze Scarlet is a flamboyant yet elegant addition to any garden or container planting in full sun. The large bronze leaves contrast spectacularly against the scarlet lilylike flowers, making this winner a highly ornamental garden plant. Its robust growth and more extensive branching ensure lavish flowering throughout the summer until the first frost.

This highly versatile species performs as a border, a patio plant, and even by the waterside. It is a good choice for attracting hummingbirds to your yard. By removing spent flowers, it encourages re-blooming and aids in the overall health of the plant.

The Communities in Bloom committee is up and running and preparing for competing with other towns in the same population category at the National level. The Judges Tour is planned for July 18-20 and the judges will be coming from anywhere across Canada.

The Society members were entertained at the monthly general meetings on a variety of topics by knowledgeable speakers. In January the president, Peter Scorrar spoke, on the interesting subject “What Does Green Mean”. In February, Joan McSweeney from Erie Shores Hospice gave an informative talk on the “Hospice Gardens”. March’s guest speaker was Rick Bradt from AMA Plastics and he enlightened everyone on “What’s New in Horticulture”.

The next general meeting will be Wednesday, April 19 at Leamington United Church, 7:30 p.m. The guest speaker will be Rob Davies from ERCA and he will be a speaking on the topic of “Plant Propagation of Carolinian Trees”. All are welcome.

Canna Cannova Bronze Scarlet has been selected as Leamington’s 2017 Flower of the Year and will be incorporated into plantings through the municipality to enhance a red and white planting scheme in honour of Canada’s 150th.

Cardinal Carter’s Cougar Robotics team works on their fully functioning robot, which will be entered into competition at University of Windsor this weekend and in North Bay in April.

The Battle of Vimy Ridge: What price war?

Special Feature by Bill Siddall

Note: One hundred years ago, the Battle of Vimy Ridge was a military engagement fought in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region of France, during the First World War. The main combatants were the Canadian Corps, of four divisions, against three divisions of the German Sixth Army. The battle took place from April 9-12, 1917.

In the crucial year of 1917 during World War One, the Allies were barely holding their own against the German Armies. During that year, the Canadians were called upon three times to fight in major battles: Vimy Ridge in April, Hill 70 in August, and Passchendaele in October/November, not to mention countless smaller skirmishes and trench raids. The butcher’s bill was staggering – 21,351 Canadian soldiers killed in action that year. Imagine, if you will, every man woman and child in the municipality of Kingsville – from Ruthven to Arner, Kingsville to Cottam – died in one year.

The Battle of Vimy Ridge

At 5:30 a.m., April 9, 1917, Easter Monday, a creeping barrage began to move towards the Germans waiting on the Ridge. Behind it advanced 20,000 soldiers of the first wave of Canadians. As luck would have it, a blinding snowstorm was blowing into the face of the enemy. Each man carried about 70 pounds of equipment, plus, some said, a similar weight of the ever-present mud. There was some hand-to-hand fighting, but the heaviest losses came from the machine guns which, with great heroism and personal sacrifice, were taken out one at a time. By noon, three-quarters of the Ridge was secured. By April 12, Vimy was in Canadian hands. Four Canadians were awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery. Only one of them survived the war. 3,598 men were killed in action, 7,004 were wounded.

If you travel Hwy 3 to London, around Dutton you will find a roadside plaque dedicated to Lance-Sergeant Ellis Sifton of the 18th Battalion. His Victoria Cross citation reads: “He charged a machine-gun post single-handed, leaping into the trench where it was concealed and killing its crew. Soon after, he was met by a small party of Germans who were advancing through the trench. He managed to hold them off until his comrades arrived, but then one of his victims, gasping a last breath of life, fired upon him.”

Brigadier-General Alexander Ross, commander of the 28th Battalion, said after the war, “It was Canada from the Atlantic to the Pacific on parade. I thought then… that in those few minutes I witnessed the birth of a nation.”

The historians like to call those numbers statistics. My mother’s brother, Walter Hickmott of Kingsville, was a “statistic”. He was wounded at Vimy, invalided to England to recover and then sent back to the front, only to be killed in action in 1918. My mother thought of him until the day she died, as I am sure my grandparents did as well. He was the uncle I never got to go fishing or hunting with, play a game of cards or sit down with at Christmas dinner, or meet the Scottish girl he was going to marry. He had just turned 21. “Statistic?” – not to me.

Five brave soldiers from this area were Killed in Action at Vimy Ridge:

• April 9, 1917 – Pte. Arthur Ernest Beattie, age 34 –4th Battalion (Leamington).

• April 9, 1917 – Lt. Thomas Newell Vickers, age 28 – 78th Battalion (Wheatley).

• April 9, 1917 – Pte. Lorne Gordon Lane, age 19 –

26th Battalion (Ruthven). Received the Military Medal.

• April 11, 1917 – Pte. Ronald Ray Morris, age 23 – 20th Battalion (Leamington).

• April 15, 1917 – Pte. Roy Henry Lumley, age 23 – 21st Battalion (Wheatley). Died of Wounds.

Thomas Newell Vickers graduated from Romney Public School and Leamington High School. He then attended the University of Toronto, where he earned a civil engineering diploma with honours. He moved to Saskatchewan, obtaining a position as a provincial engineer and surveyor. At Vimy Ridge, on the morning of April 9, 1917, he led his men over the top. His company advanced about eight hundred yards and waited behind a group of mine craters until the artillery barrage moved forward. Immediately after the advance resumed, he was seriously wounded. Although his batman – later killed in action – made an effort to get him back to the regimental aid post, Vickers died after a short distance. He was 28, and another promising young man taken in the prime of life. Left to mourn were his mother, father, brother and sister. And perhaps, somewhere a little bit south of Saskatoon, a young woman shed silent tears.

They loved and were loved, and now they lie in Flanders Fields.

Excerpt from ‘Recessional’ by Rudyard Kipling, 1897:

“The tumult and the shouting dies; The Captains and the Kings depart: Still stands Thine ancient sacrifice, An humble and a contrite heart.

Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,

Lest We Forget — Lest We Forget!”

Wheatley Legion will be holding a short memorial service on Sunday, April 9 at 1 p.m. at the Wheatley Cenotaph on Talbot Street West, in remembrance of those who gave their lives at the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Everyone welcome. Fellowship to follow at the Branch.

Limited information is available about World War One veterans. Additional information is welcome. Contact Bill Siddall at mrwfd@ mnsi.net

BANK THEATRE NOTES

10 ERIE STREET SOUTH P.O. BOX 434

LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3W5 519-326-8805

DALE'S FRIDAY COFFEE HOUSE

March 31

Doors open @ 6:30 pm

Music starts @ 7:00 pm

Come and enjoy an evening of acoustic music and community This is a free-will event with proceeds being shared with local charities and the Bank Theatre Renovation fund

LEND ME A TENOR

April 6,7,8 @ 7:30 pm April 9 @ 2:00 pm

KEN LUDWIG’S farcical comedy is brought to the Bank Theatre Stage by the Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre under the direction of Renata Solski This vibrant and enthusiastic production is a farcical comedy, layered with multiple, hilarious mishaps and one comedic disaster after another Tickets are $20 (General Admission) ONLINE TICKETS are available now at: www brownpaper tickets com/event/2736763 Tickets will be available after March 3rd at Wharram’s Jeweller y and Counter Effects in Leamington and also at the door on the night of the per formances You can call our ticket hotline at: 519-326-8805

KAREN MORAND & GINA HORSWOOD

“Saints and Sinners Tour” Kick-off concert April 22, Doors open @ 7:00 pm, Performance @ 7:30 pm

Come and enjoy the song-stylings of these award winning singer/songwriters Check out our website for more information about these two amazing talents Tickets are $20 and available online at: brownpaper tickets com; our ticket hotline 519-326-8805; Wharram’s Jeweller y and Counter Effects in Leamington and at the door if available

UPCOMING EVENTS

• April 28 & May 26 - Dale's Friday Coffee House

• April 29 - An intimate evening of music “in assor ted flavours” with Roger and Kari Lynn Hewett and friends

• April 2 - at 10:30 am come to “A QUEEN’S BRUNCH” fundraiser to celebrate Canada’s 150th and suppor t The Bank Theatre’s building fund Lots of fun, food and Canadiana Come and meet HRH Queen Victoria, and the Honorable Sir John A MacDonald Details to follow

• May 5 - England’s RED DIRT SKINNERS

• May 27 - Gloria White’s student recital

• June 2 - An evening with Sean McCann, a founding member of Great Big Sea 7:30 pm, tickets $30 Tickets are selling quickly Check our website for details

• June 15 - Dinner and whiskey/beer tasting at the Wolfhead Distiller y A fun evening to benefit the Bank Theatre’s building fund (A per fect Father’s Day gift)

Lt. Thomas Newell Vickers, age 28, of Wheatley, was killed April 9, 1917 at Vimy Ridge.

Pte. Ronald Ray Morris, age 23, of Leamington, died April 11, 1917, during the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

Walter Hickmott, age 21 of Kingsville, was wounded at Vimy Ridge. He was invalided to England, then later sent back to the front and killed in action April 16, 1918.

Above - Players, coaches and staff with the Junior C Lakeshore Canadiens and Canadian women’s national team pose for photos following an exhibition game at Highbury Canco Arena Sunday, March 26. The two teams met again Tuesday, March 28 before the women’s team headed off to Michigan for the annual IIHF World Championship tournament.

Right -A play behind the net unfolds as the Canadian women’s national hockey team conducts its first practice at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex Friday, March 24. (SUN photos)

Leamington hosts national women’s team

By Bryan Jessop

Ruthven’s Meghan Agosta enjoys competing alongside Team Canada cohorts and visiting family and friends in her old stomping grounds, but has hardly had the chance to do both simultaneously. Until now.

From March 24 to 29, Canada’s national women’s hockey team paid a visit to Leamington in preparation for the 2017 IIHF Women’s World Championships, to be hosted by Plymouth, Mich. starting March 31. All players with the team, along with trainers, managers and coaching staff, converged on the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex for four practice sessions and two scrimmage games against the Junior C Lakeshore Canadiens. The two practices on Friday, March 24, one the following Saturday and a final session on Sunday were all open and free to the public, as were the scrimmage games against the Canadiens.

A crowd of fans and spectators welcomed the Team

Canada roster, standing shoulder to shoulder along some portions of the glass and filling much of the seating area at Unico Arena for practices. With the exception of the two games against the Lakeshore junior squad — played at Highbury Canco Arena — all gatherings took place on the

(Continued on page

Genevieve Lacasse poses for a photo with Amherstburg resident Payne Oltrop following a Canadian national women’s hockey team practice at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex Friday, March 24. The team spent a week in Leamington before heading off to Plymouth, Mich. for this year’s IIHF Women’s World Championships, to start March 31.

17)

You go, girls!

Thanks to our relatively new Kodi box (or streaming box or Android box or whatever you want to call it), my wife, son and I watched the Batman Lego movie for what was probably the seventh or eighth time. Yes, the version that just came out earlier this year.

Fairly early in the film, The Joker pulls off an impressive feat of one-upsmanship. In a prior scene, Batman explains to the infamous villain that he does not consider their head-to-head confrontations as a significant rivalry or relationship of any sort. Taking offense, The Joker later surrenders to Gotham’s law enforcement officials and freely accepts incarceration… which officially makes The Dark Knight obsolete and messes with his head pretty good.

Reaching one’s ultimate goal tends to lose some of its meaning when the most formidable obstacle between the achiever and the grand prize no longer exists. Would the Original Six era of the NHL have been the glorious bygone days if either the Montreal Canadiens or Toronto Maple Leafs didn’t exist? Nope. Rivalries are often healthy things because the two entities push themselves in efforts to gain an upper hand over one another. Chevy versus Ford, McDonald’s versus Burger King, Duracell versus Energizer, Coke versus Pepsi, you name it.

As I write these words, one of the best rivalries going is in jeopardy of being compromised in a big way… at least for the time being. With the IIHL Women’s Hockey World Championships just a couple short days from getting underway, there could actually not be a Canada versus the United States. The American team, at least prior to our press deadline, is standing firm on a boycott of this year’s international event over a disagreement with USA Hockey over the financial support to which it believes it is entitled. It’s a debate that could continue raging on until well after this year’s world tournament has ended. Both the American women’s team and USA Hockey have denied each other’s public statements, so it’s kind of tough to say who’s in the wrong. Compensation has been an issue between the

Southpoint Novice Blue

On Monday, March 20 the Southpoint Capitals Novice Blue, sponsored by Leamington Chrysler, took on Essex Red. The Capitals dominated the game from the start and took the win to advance to the semi-finals in the Tier 1 playoffs. Massimo Ingratta earned a hattrick with assists from Steve Belanger, Chloe Taylor and Cohen Kimball. Noah Borges scored 2 goals, with assists from Aidan Pully and Gregory Mastronardi. Ben Arquette scored with an assist from Andrew Mallott, and Ben Mcfadden scored with an assist from Brent Pimentel. Nicholas Di Milo was solid between the pipes in the 7-2 win.

(Submitted photo)

two sides for more than a year now, while the Canadian team and Hockey Canada have been an amicable case of smooth sailing since 1998. The American team is compensated for their international competition efforts for six out of every 48 months, which seems to be where the crux of the issue lies.

Yes, it goes without saying that amateur sport by definition means not getting paid to participate. When competition hits a global stage however and the pressure is on to put on a podium-earning performance, the athletes are going to have to make sacrifices. If you want your team to stack up to the competition, individual athletes are going to have to take some time off from their day jobs… most often without compensation. Obviously, when NHL, NBA or other pros take the time to compete in amateur sport (mostly but not exclusively the Olympics), keeping the lights on at home and food in the stomachs of your family is not an issue — regardless of whether or not there is compensation offered by a governing body from the nation being represented.

I’ve actually read comments stating that the financial stress the US team’s members are feeling is their own fault for their inability to ‘market’ themselves. Huh? True, women’s hockey probably isn’t as popular in the US as it is in Canada. Neither is men’s hockey. Or junior hockey. Or table hockey. Or air hockey. These women are expected to train and practice regularly enough to remain fit for competition plus travel, play and at the same time manage to fend for themselves financially… and people expect them to perform public relations duties at the same time (while some of them are also raising families)? Holy crap, is there some sort of rift in the time-space continuum on the other side of the 49th parallel that allows each day to run a course of 42 hours? I haven’t been Stateside since before passports were required, so maybe the American day is now longer than ours (does the exchange rate apply to time as well as currency?), so for all I know, that could very well be the case.

All joking aside, I personally hope the impasse between the US team and USA Hockey comes to an end in the very near future. As much as I enjoy watching Canadian teams win gold in any sport at any level, it just wouldn’t have the same meaning in women’s hockey without the American team to go through first. That would be a championship accompanied by one big, impossible-to-miss asterisk.

A couple short hours (these are Canadian hours, remember) before I started writing this column, I covered the scrimmage/exhibition game between the Canadian national women’s team and the Junior C Lakeshore Canadiens at Highbury Canco Arena. It was an interesting spectacle to say the very least. The Canadiens — Stobbs Division finalists as of about a week earlier — won the game 5-1 with a couple empty netters. The full five minutes of just for the heck of it overtime brought the women’s team to within two goals.

The game was interesting for a multitude of reasons. For one, the women’s team looks quite a bit faster in person than on television. Secondly, it was worthwhile just watching a

junior hockey team adapt to a no-contact version of the sport (although a certain Manitoban southpaw by the name of Bailey Bram bent the rules a couple times with a few impressive hits on Lakeshore players whose coats probably weigh as much as her). Then there was the age disparity. Only the very youngest player on the women’s national team (Sarah Potomak, at 19, the team’s only teenager) would have been young enough to play junior hockey.

Anyway, it was a great game that drew what I’m guessing was well over 1,000 fans. It would have been cool to see Meghan Agosta take one of the three penalty shots at the end, but it was a very entertaining match-up. Regardless of who Team Canada does or doesn’t play in Plymouth, I wish them the best of luck and hope they bring home the gold.

BRYAN JESSOP Jessop’s Journal

Bantam Stars dominate in 6-1 win

The Southpoint Switzer-Carty Bantam Stars played host to the LaSalle Sabre Cats.

The Bantam Stars came ready to play and dominated this contest from the drop of the puck until the final buzzer and won the game by a final score of 6-1.

Kaylie Goodchild and Lexy Iacobelli led the offensive charge scoring two goals each, with single goals by Stephanie Wiebe and Chelsea Andary. Scoring assists were Tarez Raheb (2), Charlene Smith (2), Hannah Chacko, Alexa Taylor, Chelsea Andary and Raine Schiefer.

Courtney Jeffery was spectacular between the pipes for the Stars as she just allowed one goal throughout the entire game.

Highbury girls defeat Harrow

The Southpoint Highbury Canco Intermediate girls team won their final game of the regular season, defeating Harrow by a score of 3-2.

The girls looked unstoppable in the first period. On their first goal, Cassie Bluhm passed the puck back to Allison Chopchik at the blueline. Allison fired the puck, hitting a Harrow player. Tatum Davison got her stick on the puck, spun around and sent it underneath the goalie.

Halfway through the period, Krysten Garant picked up the puck on a scramble in front of the Harrow net and jammed it in the back. Brienne Mastronardi picked up an assist. Highbury then found themselves with 2 players in the box. They killed off those penalties and then scored again. Kelsey Babkirk backhanded the puck in the net on another scramble. Shelby Hunter picked up the assist.

The second and third periods saw more even play and Harrow picked up a goal in the second and the third. Southpoint goalie Caitlyn Preston stopped Harrow from picking up any more goals.

With the win, Southpoint ended up first in their tier and will play this same Harrow team in the championship.

Peewee Stars face Predators

The Southpoint Community Trophy Peewee Stars welcomed the South County Kingsville Predators to the Highbury rink on Sunday afternoon, Mar. 26. This was a battle to determine who would take second place and go to Day of Champs.

The game remained scoreless until the three minute mark of the third period when a Predator defenceman unloaded a laser of a slapshot that found the back of the net behind Stars goalie Evan Gualtieri. Kingsville won this game by a score of 1-0.

This was an exciting playoff matchup. The Lady Stars played their hearts out and goalie Evan Gualtieri was an absolute rock in net as she made several big saves throughout this game.

JACKSON BROWNE AND SARA & SEAN WATKINS (PRETTY MUCH) ACOUSTIC Thursday, April 20

SOLD OUT

RASCAL FLATTS RHYTHM & ROOTS TOUR Friday, April 21

BILL ENGVALL Friday, May 5

DANCE TO THE MOVIES

STARRING DANCING WITH THE STARS PROS, SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE AND AMERICAN IDOL FINALISTS! OPEN TO ALL AGES Friday, May 12

TREVOR NOAH Friday, May 19

AUSTRALIA'S THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER Friday, May 26

ZZ TOP Friday, June 2

a playoff game at Unico Arena Sunday, March 26. By winning 2-1 on a pair of goals by Lea Marshall, the Southpoint team qualified for the Day of Champions to

place in Essex Sunday, Apr. 2.

The bantam Southpoint Stars’ Hannah Chacko prepares to fire a shot at the LaSalle net as a Sabre Cats player approaches during the first period of an Interlock League playoff game at Unico Arena Sunday, March 26. The Stars won 6-1.

Baby Announcements Tell everyone about the birth of your baby in the Southpoint Sun!

Tyke Hockey

The Southpoint Tykes played their last game of the season, Red vs. White, on Saturday, March 25.

Brodie Buchan of Leamington makes his way through a turn during a Thunderfest race at Leamington Fairgrounds during the Civic Holiday weekend in 2016 in the Open Expert class. Buchan finished the Flat Track Canada 2016 season third in Open Expert and first in DTX Expert. For 2017, Flat Track Canada races at Leamington Fairgrounds and Erie Ramblers will take place July 15 and September 16, respectively.

Dirt bike race schedules to change

By Bryan Jessop

The dates and times have changed, but the dirt flinging, tire-to-tire intensity will remain the same for 2017.

Flat Track Canada has released its Canadian National Championship race schedule for the upcoming season, a list of dates, times and locations that has been altered somewhat in comparison to previous years. The wide assortment of classes for different dirt bikes and driver experience levels has reduced its number of stops and sites from 11 to nine this year, although Erie Ramblers in Wheatley and the Leamington Fairgrounds will continue to serve as destinations.

The four-month national schedule will include a stop

at the Fairgrounds Saturday, July 15 and another hosted by the Erie Ramblers club west of Wheatley Saturday, Sept. 16. The dates are in contrast to previous years, where racers from across Ontario, Quebec, Michigan and beyond met in Leamington on a Saturday and then in Wheatley the following day.

The time schedule for each local stop is also being altered. Gates are slotted to open at 8 a.m. for youth division riders, who are expected to complete practice runs, heats and main event races by approximately noon. Afterwards, gates will re-open for older races in the more advanced classes. For these groups, practices and heats are expected to take place between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., with opening ceremonies scheduled for 6:45 p.m. Qualifying runs and finals should begin at approximately 7 p.m. Specific times for final races in each class will vary depending on the number of entries in each group.

“After 7 o’clock is when you’ll see the fastest action,” explained Kyle Sheppard, a promoter for Flat Track Canada who handles the organization’s social media and marketing duties while also racing in Intermediate divisions. “What’s great about the tracks in that area (Leamington/Wheatley) is that they’ll be taking care of the gates, registration and things like that. We get to just step back from it and let them handle it.”

Entries from Wheatley, Leamington and surrounding areas have been scattered throughout the Canadian National Championship series divisions in previous years, with several attending the events at the Fairgrounds’ half-mile and Erie Ramblers’ quarter-mile ‘paperclip’ site. Sheppard noted that some of the circuit’s most competitive racers hail from the Leamington-Wheatley corridor, including Brody Buchan, Trent Pickle, Nick Wenzler and Cody Marentette. Buchan’s grandfather played a pivotal role in the creation of the Erie Ramblers track and his father served the club as president.

One of the most memorable races at the Leamington Fairgrounds took place in 2014 between Sheppard — a Copetown, Ont. resident — and Pickle in the Novice DTX class. On the last lap of the final, the two were battling for the lead along the back straightaway when Pickle decided to make Turn Three on the inside while Sheppard elected to run further out. The latter struck a hay bail and crashed end over end while Pickle sprinted onward for the win. Sheppard briefly lost consciousness in the graphic crash, but suffered only a minor concussion and a separated shoulder.

“Some people thought I broke my neck,” he said. “I was racing again the next weekend.”

This year’s Canadian National series will begin May 20 in Woodstock and end Sept. 23 in Ohsweken. Leamington will be the third of nine stops while Erie Ramblers will be the eighth. Next year, out-of-province stops may be added to the circuit including Vancouver and Calgary areas.

“It’s a big deal to be on a national stop,” Sheppard explained.

The Erie Ramblers schedule will also include a race school the day after it hosts the Canadian National event. Sessions will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., with bikes — Honda 450cc, 250cc and 150cc models — being provided on site. To book a spot in the school, call 226-203-2100 or e-mail info@goflattrack.com.

Leamington hosts national women’s team

(Continued from page 13)

smaller, NHL-sized Unico rink, as it spans the same dimensions as the tournament surface in Plymouth.

“We’ve never had crowds this big for practices,” said Hockey Canada media relations coordinator Morgan Bell. “It’s an impressive turnout.”

The two full-length games against Lakeshore were originally scheduled to take place on the Unico surface as well, but were moved to the other side of the Kinsmen Kanteen to accommodate two factors — two interlock girls hockey playoff games for Southpoint’s bantam and intermediate red teams and a crowd of spectators that would have been far too large for the smaller arena’s viewing area. An estimated crowd of well over 1,000 fans attended the Sunday afternoon game, won 5-3 by Lakeshore. Results and details from the Tuesday evening scrimmage were not available by press deadline.

The Canadians’ J.J. Percy opened the scoring Sunday at the midway point of the opening period, although Laura Stacey of Kleinburg, Ont. tied the game in the second on a Team Canada power play. Mejoe Gasparovic broke the stalemate about three minutes later for Lakeshore to finish scoring in the middle frame, after which point Team Canada switched netminders from Genevieve Lacasse of Kingston, Ont. to Emerance Maschmeyer of Bruderheim, Alta.

Third period scoring was all Lakeshore, starting with a James Brooks marker followed by empty netters by Kyle Carter and Percy. A goal by Team Canada was called back on a goaltender interference call against Blayre Turnbull of Stellarton, N.S. Late in the third, a shot by Agosta beat netminder Mitch Topliffe, but rang off the right post at ice level. Five minutes of overtime included two Team Canada goals by Brianne Jenner of Oakville, Ont.

Through 65 minutes, the Canadiens outshot Team Canada 39-36.

Normally, the Canadian women’s team plays pretournament games against midget triple-A teams from the community they are visiting, but instead made arrangements with the Canadiens — this year’s Stobbs Division finalists — for the Leamington visit.

“It was a good game. They’re a very good team,” said Team Canada’s Lauriane Rougeau of Lakeshore. “They’re big, fast and strong. It was a good way to help us get ready for the Worlds. High tempo games like that are what we need to prepare.”

The players enjoyed

their visit to Leamington, although most of their stay was spent focusing on the upcoming IIHF tournament. Marie-Philip Poulin, who scored both the equalizer and overtime goal in the 2014 Olympics gold medal game against the United States in Sochi, echoed teammate sentiments that practices in Leamington were crucial in readying them for their schedule in Plymouth.

“We’re getting there, but we’re not quite there yet,” she said.

Despite the team’s focus and dedication to being in top form for the Women’s World Championships, the outpouring of support from local fans did not go unnoticed.

“We’re always happy to see the girls watching us,” Poulin said. “We’re very lucky and honoured to be a part of their journey.

“Leamington’s been great to us. The crowds have been amazing — to see the numbers watching us at practice is always encouraging.”

“The fans, the support and the community have been wonderful,” added Agosta. “We can’t thank Leamington enough for what it’s done for us.”

Following the team’s Friday morning practice, Agosta described the chance to practice with her team in her home town setting as an exciting experience. In managing a balance between practicing and competing with her team and a career in her current home in Vancouver as a full-time police officer, she noted that a chance to see family, friends and supporters in Leamington was an eagerly anticipated opportunity.

“It’s definitely fun to be back,” Agosto explained. “I love coming back to share my experiences. It never gets old. It’s an honour and a privilege every single time I’m on the ice. I want to live in the moment and play as long as I can. It’s been hard work to balance hockey and the rest of my life. It’s tak-

Sunbrite Stars win 2-1

The Sunbrite Southpoint Intermediate Stars tangled with the Lakeshore Lightning in a battle to determine second place in Tier 1 and punch their ticket to the EssexKent Day of Champs.

The Lightning scored early in the second period after a scoreless first period. This set the scene for an exciting third period where the Lady Stars did not disappoint as they scored two big unanswered goals to secure a 2-1 win!

Captain Lea Marshall provided the offence scoring both Stars goals. Assists were awarded to Abby Gualtieri (2) and Mackenzie Mahon (2).

Netminder Sam Hartleib was sensational in net for the Sunbrite Stars as she refused to let the Lightning tie the game up in the final period!

to prepare for the World Championships in Leamington.

ing everything one day at a time.”

Agosta hopes to return to again visit family and friends after the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea, noting that she misses conducting the hockey school camp that she last ran in the region about two years ago. Since arriving at

Leamington’s Best Western Plus hotel, Agosta has served as her team’s guide to and from the arena and made points of interest suggestions to teammates following a group dinner Saturday evening.

“It’s been a very special moment for her,” Rougeau said of Agosta’s chance

Players with Team Canada are preparing for a tournament scheduled to start with a March 31 game against the Americans despite a boycott launched by the US team over disagreements with USA Hockey over financial compensation. Although the chances of a solution and participation from Team USA remained unknown in the days prior to the championships’ first game, Hockey

Canada women’s team program general manager issued a statement in part stating “Our players and staff respect the U.S. Women’s National Team and USA Hockey and remain hopeful that a resolution is found between both parties. Regardless of the outcome surrounding the situation our focus remains solely on our preparation and on-ice performance leading into and throughout the IIHF Women’s World Championship…”

Goalie Emerance Maschmeyer signs a Windsor Wildcat fan’s jersey following a Canadian national women’s hockey team practice at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex Friday, March 24. The team spent a week in Leamington before heading off to Plymouth, Mich. for this year’s IIHF Women’s World Championships, to start March 31.

Women’s rec hockey league ends in a thriller

After three periods of great hockey, Stingers Transport and Source For Sports were tied at 3. After a shootout, Source For Sports went ahead to win the Championship game.

Stingers finished the regular season in first place with 35 points - 16 wins, 1 loss, and 3 ties. Source For Sports finished in second spot with 19 points - 8 wins, 9 losses, and 3 ties.

In the battle of third and fourth it was Body Kneads and Sun Parlour Locksmith who tied the season each with 18 points - 7 wins, 9 losses and 4 ties. The final - and deciding- game saw Locksmith win 2-0.

April is National Facial Protection Month

Each April the dental community joins together to promote National Facial Protection month. It is the perfect time of year to bring attention to how important it is to protect your teeth, gums and full mouth from injury during all the spring sports.

When it comes to dental injuries, sport related activities account for an estimated 39% during the spring months. A simple way to limit the risk of oral injury, especially while undergoing orthodontic treatment, is to always wear protective facial and mouth gear, such as a mouth guard, when engaging in organized or recreational sports.

“It is important that adult and children athletes and coaches to play it safe by wearing mouth guards and appropriate protective gear when participating in activities that could cause injuries,” said Essex-County based orthodontist Dr. Maxwell Abraham, whose office is in Leamington. “Many sports injuries can be prevented by wearing appropriate protective gear.” Mouth guards are one of the least expensive pieces of protective equipment available. Over-the-counter mouth guards cost as little as $5 and can protect teeth and jaws, but they only provide protection when they are worn.

Dr. Abraham advises parents and coaches to remind youngsters to always use a mouth guard when participating in any activity during which the mouth could come into contact with a hard object or the pavement.

“Athletes who wear braces should consult their orthodontist for a recommendation of the best mouth guard to wear during orthodontic treatment,” said Dr. Abraham

Consistent use of other protective equipment is important, too. Helmets save lives and prevent head injuries. They should be worn for activities such as bicycling, skateboarding or skating on in-line skates. Helmet wear is mandated for many organized sports. Face guards, devices made of plastic or metal that attach to baseball helmets, help to prevent facial injuries as well.

other rookies, Sydnnie Parker, Reagan Chapman and Jax Epp, made great improvements. Second-year swimmer Arthur Lopez finished strong. At the WECSSA meet, all swimmers peaked and performed at their personal best. The

girls relay consisting of Jessica Weil, Juliann Tiessen, Alexis Ludwig and Sydnnie Parker qualified under the SWOSSA time. At the SWOSSA championships, the junior girls – with Ava Gossen replacing Tiessen – were a respectable seventh, swimming a

and

LDSS Open Girls Relay team, left to right: Emily Bunda, Maddy Lavoie, Ryann Child, Alison Ware.

LDSS Senior Girls Relay team, left to right: Daniella Scurto, JoAnna Weil, Emily Menard, Alexis Ludwig.

LDSS Junior Girls Relay team, left to right: Jessica Weil, Sydnnie Parker, Julianne Tiessen, Alexis Ludwig.

Maddy Lavoie won a gold medal at OFSSA and set a new Ontario High School Open record, swimming the 100 IM in 1:04.

Carson Labute following his swim at OFSSA.

junior

The

Men’s Recreational League Second Half Winners

Rhine Danube bowling scores

The following are the Rhine Danube bowling leagues scores for March 13. Games Over 200: Claudio Sabelli 200-253, Dan Dalimonte 216, Tony Ingratta 200, Tys Schaafsma 200, John Paliwoda 226, Jamie Arquette 234-206, Richard Dickau 235, Aaron Dickau 230, Gary Garnham 232, Ozzie Wolf 202-216, Kevin Kosempel 215246-232, Heinz Kosempel 246-217, Chris Kosempel 205, Robert Nykyforuk 210.

Series Over 550: Claudio Sabelli 621, Dan Dalimonte 577, John Paliwoda 591, Jamie Arquette 636, Richard Dickau 571, Aaron Dickau 593, Gary Garnham 608, Ozzie Wolf 590, Kevin Kosempel 693, Heinz Kosempel 654, Robert Nykyforuk 563. High Handicap Games: Claudio Sabelli 310, Kevin Kosempel 295, John Paliwoda 290, Tony Ingratta 290.

High Handicap Series: Kevin Kosempel 840, Jamie Arquette 801, Claudio Sabelli 792.

Standings: Fittler Farms 52, Del Fresco 52, Rhine Danube 49, S.W. Property 37, Weil’s Food 32, Dickau Construction 30.

OBITUARY

Dorothy Myers

Dorothy Myers, 92 years, passed away on Monday, March 27, 2017 at Erie Shores Hospice.

Friday Retirees bowling

The following are the March 24 high bowling scores for the Friday Retirees Bowling League at Empire Lanes.

County Bridge Results

Beloved wife of the late Murray (1997). Dear mother of Richard (Sandra), Ron (Maureen). Loving grandmother of Laura Wright (Rick), Tara Adams, Kelly Mastronardi (Tony), Tim Myers, and great-grandmother of Marc, Eric, Ryan, Kryslin, Patrick and Amanda. Dear sister of Faye Klassen (late Paul), the late Joan Taylor (late Jerry), the late Leroy Noble (Lily). Predeceased by her parents, Minto and Minnie Noble.

Visiting is at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Thursday from 9 a.m. until time of the Funeral Service to celebrate Dorothy’s life at 11 a.m. Interment Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to Erie Shores Hospice, Leamington Mennonite Home or Salvation Army.

Friends may share memories at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

OBITUARY

Irene Thiessen

Irene Thiessen (nee Konrad) passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Thursday, March 23, 2017 at Erie Shores Hospice in Leamington.

Beloved wife of the late Helmut (2006).

Loving mother of Randy and his wife Darlene. Cherished Oma of Lauren and Joel.

Dear sister of Rudy Konrad and wife Linda, Helen Derksen and husband Ron, Rita Enns and husband Ken, the late Bill Konrad and wife Maria, Henry Konrad and wife Peg, the late Peter Konrad, Albert Konrad and wife Kathy. Adored aunt to several nieces and nephews and their families. Predeceased by her mother and father Susie and Bernard Konrad.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell St., Leamington (519-326-2631) on Sunday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

Funeral Service to celebrate Irene’s life was held at LakePoint Family Church, 285 Talbot St. E., Leamington, on Monday, March 27, 2017 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Larry Brush officiating. Interment at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery followed.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations made by cheque to Faith Everlasting Church or Erie Shores Hospice Leamington would be appreciated. Family and friends are invited to share their stories, words of comfort or make a charitable contribution at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Men Over 180: Heinz Kosempel 227, 209, 237; Nick Levchuk 180; Ernie Purr 181; Dave LaBonte 181; Tony Dama 190; Maurice Cowan 180; Bob Sinclair 246, 206; Ozzie Wolf 204, 199; Jack Valade 182, 197; Tys Schaafsma 193, 180; Jamie Arquette 203, 184.

Women Over 150: Connie Popa 157; Theresa DeCaluwe 178; Diane Sinclair 190, 182; Patti Clifford 156; Bernice Smith 153; Susan Power 168; Ann Murphy 151, 158, 167; Peggy Hillman 165, 156.

High Handicap Games: Tony Dama 276, Carl Robinson 266, Bob Sinclair 262, Ann Murphy 262, Diane Sinclair 259, Susan Power 255.

High Handicap Series: Carl Robinson 753, Heinz Kosempel 736, Steve Murphy 728, Ann Murphy 761, Diane Sinclair 703, Susan Power 702.

OBITUARY

Roger Branco

A resident of Leamington, Roger Branco passed away suddenly on Friday, March 24, 2017 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital at the age of 57.

LEAMINGTON HALF CENTURY CENTRE, MAR. 20: 1st Nina Towle and Helen Preyde, 2nd HenryHildebrandt and Geo Hildebrandt, 3rd Al Morrison and Arla Marquis, 4th Marilyn Robbins and Eliz Joyce Moran. Bridge games are played each Monday at 12:45 p.m. Members and new members welcome.

KINGSVILLE BRIDGE CLUB,

MAR. 22: North/South - 1st Eliz Joyce Moran and Marilyn Robbins, 2nd Pauline Mikolash and Al Morrison, 3rd Jeanne Manners and Shirley Plant. East/West - 1st Bob Lee and Henry Hildebrandt, 2nd Mary Strachan and Patricia Sanford, 3rd Dave Derbyshire and Derek Parry. Bridge is every Wednesday at the Lions Hall in Kingsville, 7 p.m.

OBITUARY

Murray Mellow

Absent from the body, present with the Lord. Murray Everett Mellow passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Saturday, March 25, 2017 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital.

Roger was born in Leamington and was the son of the late Rogerio and Ermelinda Branco. Son-inlaw to Gabrielle and Ben Barnden. Loving husband of Carole Branco for 35 years. Dear father of Jason Branco and fiancée Vanessa Kuehnappel. Big brother to Susie Sousa and the late Joe Sousa. Favourite godfather to Kyle, Caitlin, Jenna Sousa and Kristie Azar, and the late Jason Sousa. Brother-inlaw to Lise Gerstheimer and her husband Greg, Gail Hughes and her husband Mark, and Gisele Gauthier. Roger will also be dearly missed by many nieces and nephews.

Roger was a dedicated employee of Omstead and Cavendish with over 40 years of dedicated service to the company and his colleagues. He will always be remembered as a free spirit with an infectious laugh and zest for life.

Family and friends were received at Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell St., Leamington (519- 326-2631) on Monday from 2:00-5:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Mass of the Resurrection was held on Tuesday, March 28, 2017 at St. Michael’s Church, 29 Elliott St., Leamington, at 10:00 a.m. Interment followed at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery, Leamington. Memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to the family would be appreciated. Friends may send condolences or make a charitable contribution at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Beloved husband for 63 years of Joyce Mellow (nee Carter). Cherished father of Richard (Deb Adamson) Mellow of Wheatley, Patti (John) Robinson and Karen Mellow (Don Joyce) of Leamington, and Robert Mellow of Tiverton.

Loving grandfather of David (Sarah) Pavao, Jen (Scott) Douglas, Mark Mellow-Pavao (Julie), Chris Robinson, Matt (Suzanne) Robinson, Drew Mellow (Cassandra), Jordan (Jenn) Mellow. Papa was also the adored greatgrandfather of five. He is survived by one sister Nina Towle, sisters-in-law Jean Arthurs, Joan (Ralph) Mellow and Marlene (Bill Roach). Predeceased by sisters Verna Wilkinson, Joy Spencer and brother Albert Mellow.

Murray joined the Leamington Police Department on April 15, 1958 rising in rank to the position of Deputy Chief. He retired on April 17, 1987 after 29 years of faithful service to the community that he loved. He was a member of the First Baptist Church Leamington, serving his Lord and church family on the Finance and Resource Board, as church Trustee and in many other ways. “Uncle Murray” will be sorely missed by his loving church family. Murray was also a talented woodworker.

Visitation will be held at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519326-2631) on Wednesday, March 29, 2017 from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 pm.

Funeral service will be held Thursday, March 30, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 3 Fox Street, Leamington.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the First Baptist Church Treasures Fund or to Samaritan’s Purse Canada.

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

winner of the Sun Parlour Curling Club Monday Men’s Recreational League for the second half of the curling season was the team of (left to right), Dan Ouellette, Tom Bondy, Andrew Dick and Joe Drummond (skip). The team chose to donate monies from the prize pool to the Community Kitchen at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church in Leamington on behalf of the Sun Parlour Curling Club. (Submitted photo)

J J STITCHING - SEWING, alterations, and repairs. Pants shortened $8.50 plus tax. (Some exceptions may apply such as lined pants). If your clothing is too tight or too baggy, give me a call to see if it can be altered. Call Jean at 519-968-2261. 14 Johnson Avenue, Leamington. jjstitching@gmail.com fe15-mr29

PRINTING: BUSINESS

ENVELOPES,invoices, flyers, business cards, custom print jobs, whatever your printing needs, call Jolene at The Sounthpoint Sun for quick and economical service, 519-398-9098. tf

MUSIC LESSONS IN KINGSVILLE

All ages, all styles. 43 Pearl St. East 519-997-7777 rebelcowboymusic.com

CAREGIVER (RPN) WITH 25+ years experience has recent opening for private care in home or other facilities. References available. Call 519-326-4618. mr22-29 SERVICES Dr. Brian E. Adamson 24 Oak St. East

ERIE APARTMENTS

Eye examinations by appointment

137 Erie St. South 2 bedroom units available. 2nd & 3rd floor. 13th month free. Available immediately. Call 519-791-1972

LEAMINGTON LAKEFRONT

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

• library and social rooms

• new Smart Card “no coin” laundry • beautiful lobby • underground parking • outdoor balconies

• FREE utilities and window coverings

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

PERSONALS

TALLISH, PROFESSIONAL MALE, mid-fifties, seeks an interesting woman. Enjoys sports, reading, travel, movies, occasional nights out and relaxing. Respond to 269 Erie Street South, Box 20014, Leamington, ON N8H 0B2. mr22-29

COMING UP

FISH DINNERS DURING

Lent, every Friday from 4.30 to 6.30 pm at St. Michael's Parish, John Street, Leamington. Adults $12. Children under 12 years $5. Come and enjoy. mr8-ap5

PRIME RIB DINNER.St. John the Evangelist Church, 60 Erie Street North, Leamington. Thursday, March 30 at 6:00 p.m. Tickets $30. Tickets available at church office at 519326-3111 or 519-326-4042. mr29

BROASTED CHICKEN DINNER at Olinda-Ruthven United Church, 1907 Queen Blvd., Ruthven. Saturday, April 1st from 4:30 - 7:00 p.m. Adults $16, children 612 years $7, children 5 and under free. mr22-29

KINGSVILLE LEGION BRANCH 188 - Friday Night Dinners 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Weekly Specials $14 (Ribs or Perch). Other weekly menu items $12. Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month 8:00 p.m. 519-7335162 (office) or 519-7339081 (bar). ja6-tf

JOB FAIR - MONDAY April 3, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Guaranteed interviews by Augustine Villas Retirement Residence, Kingsville. Seeking PSW's, house keeping, dining room servers, maintenance, cooks, office candidates and volunteeer opportunties. Bring resumes, certificates, licenses, etc. 2nd Floor Conference Room Libro Credit Union, 328 Main St. E. Kingsville N9Y 1A8. Contact us: phone 519-7338376, email: augustinevillas@yahoo.ca. mr29

ITEMS FOR SALE

2003 COACHMEN

TRAILER, 24' Lite, 2 piece fridge, stove/oven, air/heat, microwave. Sleeps 5-6. TV ant., 3 piece bath, hitch, sway bars, lots of storage. In mint condition. $8700. Stored indoors in winter. Call Rita at 519-326-6585. mr29

WANTED TO BUY

WANTED TO BUY. Antiques, estates, costume jewellery, gold, sterling, coins, tools, clocks, toys. We buy it all. Free appraisals. Cash on the spot. Call 519-727-8894. ja18-my31

We are currently seeking an experienced candidate for the FULL TIME, PERMANENT POSITION OF FABRICATOR/ GENERAL LABOURER Wages negotiable. Willing to train the right candidate. Please forward resume in person to: 229 Talbot St. W. Leamington between the hours of 7:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday - Friday. Or by email to: leamingtonglass@bellnet.ca

Apply in Person at: 304 Robson Rd., Leamington 519-326-0999

WELDERS REQUIRED

Ability to weld steel and stainless steel.

GENERAL LABOURERS REQUIRED

Apply in person to:

Custom Fab. Inc. 5140 Ure Street, Oldcastle • Fax: 519-737-1833

DETAILS:

• Full-time permanent • Monday to Saturday • Wage based on experience. • Healthcare Benefits

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Packing and grading of produce as directed by Line Leads

• Maintain product quality standards that meet product specifications

• Maintain a sanitized and organized department that meets all food safety requirements

• Respect all other employees and work in a professional manner at all times projecting a good company image

• Work in various positions at the required speed of service and with the desired sense of urgency

• Other duties as assigned

• Ability to work in the greenhouse as required

• Excellent multi-tasking skills under pressure and manual dexterity

• Ability to lift up 20 lb boxes

• Flexibility to work extended hours, including Saturdays

• Follow all policies and procedures as it relates to Human Resources, Health and Safety and Food Safety

If you possess these attributes, please forward your resume to: hr@orangelinefarms.com

Only a 10 Minute Drive from Staples, Comber, Wheatley

DINIRO FARMS NEEDS full time greenhouse general labourers. $11.40/hour, 45+ hours, 7 days/week. Must be available Saturday and Sunday. Duties include plant, crop maintenance, harvest and pack. Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds on a repetitive basis. Please apply via email to: dinirofarms@wavedirect.net. eow-mr29

GROSSI PLUMBING, HEATING & HVAC Services accepting resumes in all areas: Plumbing, Sheet Metal, HVAC, Administration. Submit by - Drop in: 238 Talbot Street West, Leamington, ON. Email: grossi@grossiplumbing.ca Fax: 519-326-3632. mr15-ma31

Via Verde Hydroponics Ltd. is looking for:

GREENHOUSE WORKERS

• Job duties include plant crop, harvest crop, crop maintenance, greenhouse cleanup, other farm duties as assigned, clean work area, check product for quality assurance, transplant crops, vegetable propagation, sort, pack and stack produce.

• Job requires standing, bending, kneeling for long periods of time, repetitive tasks, working under hot, humid conditions in greenhouse.

• Salary: $11.43 per hour, minimum 45 hours/week including weekends and holidays. Permanent full time job. Email resume to: hr@sunritegreenhouses.com Fax: 519-733-5290

WE ARE HIRING... 2 FULL TIME POSITIONS

LABOUR POSITION

• Must be able to work as a team player or solo if required

• Must be able to work Monday to Friday, possibly some Saturdays may be required.

• Must be physically capable of doing some heavy lifting

• Must have a G license

• Must be able to work in all weather conditions

DRIVER/SERVICE DRIVER

• Port-a-john delivery / service person required

• Must be able to work Monday to Friday - possibly some weekends will be required

• Must be physically capable of some heavy lifting

• Must know the county roads

• Must be a team player

• Must be able to work in all weather conditions

Drop your resume off at: 96 ROAD 6 WEST, COTTAM ONTARIO N0R 1V0 Or call 519-839-5448 for directions. You can also email your resume to knight@gosfieldtel.com but drop off is preferred. Thank you.

HIRING AZ DRIVERS

LOCAL & CROSS BORDER DRIVER

3 YEARS EXPERIENCE

$20 PER HOUR LOCAL TO START

65¢* PER MILE HIGHWAY

Contact us...

Phone: 519-733-8000 Fax: 519-733-0600

We are seeking GREENHOUSE PRODUCTION

ASSOCIATES

• Compensation is $12.00/hr

• Monday through Friday (Occasional Saturdays) Please apply at: careers@aphria.com or mail a resume to: P.O. Box 20009 269 Erie St. S., Leamington, ON N8H 3C4

PRESS BRAKE OPERATOR & LASER OPERATOR

an asset. Apply in person to:

Greenhouse Worker

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Crop work, winding, pruning, harvesting

• Checking quality of harvested produce

• Other duties as assigned

WORK CONDITIONS:

• Fast-paced environment, repetitive tasks, standing for extended periods

• Bend, crouching, kneeling, hand-eye coordination, attention to detail

• Working at heights, hot environment

WAGE AND HOURS:

• 40 plus hours a week including Saturdays

• Wage: 11.43/hour, seasonal, full time

Please forward your resume by email to: hr@orangelinefarms.com (627 County Rd. 14, R.R. # 5, Leamington, ON N8H 3V8)

GREENHOUSE WORKERS NEEDED

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

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

Permanent full time weekdays including weekends $11.43 per hour. Will train the right candidate. Must be able to work within a group or on their own. Reliable and dependable.

Must have own transportation. Apply:

For me, this is what makes Orangeline Farms an AmaZing place to work”. Susanne Thiessen

Mail: P.O Box 188, Ruthven, ON N0P 2G0 In Person: 1959 Road 3 East, Kingsville

at Erie Shores Golf & Country Club

JOB FAIR - MONDAY April 3, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Guaranteed interviews by Augustine Villas Retirement Residence, Kingsville. Seeking PSW's, house keeping, dining room servers, maintenance, cooks, office candidates and volunteeer opportunties. Bring resumes, certificates, licenses, etc. 2nd Floor Conference Room Libro Credit Union, 328 Main St. E. Kingsville N9Y 1A8. Contact us: phone 519-733-8376, email: augustinevillas@yahoo.ca. mr29

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE/PAYABLES

Responsibilities include, but not limited to: Using Quick

Mastronardi Produce Now Hiring

PRODUCTION PACKERS

Please send resumes to Fax: 519-326-8569 or online at: www.sunsetgrown.com

Leamington ON N8H 1M2

Pyramid Farms in Leamington is looking for a

FULL TIME GREENHOUSE MAINTENANCE POSITION

Candidates should be handy, have some welding experience, be able to drive a forklift and read and write English. Tractor driving experience would also be an asset. Wage dependent on experience.

Apply with resume to ...

Full Time Direct Hire Position

Purchaser

Kingsville, Ontario

Responsible for:

·Vendor quotes and negotiations

· Review of requirements and materials with drawings

·Preparation of Purchase orders

Job Requirements:anna@southwestdiesel.ca 519-326-7406

HEALTH AND SAFETY ASSISTANT

Responsibilities Include:

• Enforce and maintain corporate health & safety policies and standards.

• Conduct health & safety inspections of Mucci facilities to ensure regulatory compliance.

• Identify and evaluate hazardous conditions and practices in the workplace, and recommend corrective actions.

• Lead the sanitation & hygiene team to develop and implement cleaning/sanitation programs.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 1-2 year experience working in a Health and Safety discipline.

• Comprehensive knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety Acts (OHSA) and legislation.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. careers@muccifarms.com

Email: pyramidfarms@cogeco.net, or Fax: 519-326-3027 or In Person: 209 Erie St. North, Leamington

ASSISTANT GROWER

The assistant grower’s role will be to assist and support the primary grower in the production of greenhouse vegetables.

Job Duties:

• Help ensure the crop is healthy and growing optimally

• Ensure greenhouse climate is conducive in relation to weather conditions

• Track and record various aspects of the crop including plant measurements and trial production

• Become familiar with process or learn Priva Office climate control computer

• Become familiar with process or learn PrivAssist labour computer

• Work with Grower to ensure labour is properly planned and coordinated

• Assist with the implementation of an Integrated Pest Management program

• Assist with the implementation of a Food Safety Program

• Promote a safe and secure workplace environment

• Apply and mix fertilizers and pesticides as needed

Send Resume to: careers@muccifarms.com

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·Verifying timing and receipt of orders

·Time management

·Track purchases and budgets

·Other duties as assigned.

The successful candidate will have minimum 5 years’ experience in a welding or fabricating industry. Ability to read blueprints. Excellent customer service skills. Proficient in MS Office and Purchasing systems.

Salary DOE $60 - $70 k plus benefits after 90 days

Qualified applicants please apply with resume to Deb@personnelbyelsie.com

PERSONNEL by Elsie 5923 Tecumseh Rd E Windsor, ON

2016 2017 FLYERS ELIMINATE VIPERS

BY BRYAN JESSOP

For the fourth year in a row, the Leamington Flyers have punched their ticket into the Western Conference finals — this time as underdogs.

Leamington upset the conference’s first-place LaSalle Vipers with a 4-2 semifinal series win, wrapping it up with a 6-1 victory at Highbury Canco Arena Thursday, March 23. The Flyers were outshot in five of the series’ six games, but with the support of sturdy goaltending, bounced back from a 2-1 deficit in the second round to win three straight against the heavily favoured and more experienced Vipers.

The Flyers were a high-energy team coming out of the gates in the first period of Game 6, although they were outshot slightly 12-11. The hosts swarmed Eli Billing’s net for much of the opening frame, where power play opportunities paved the way for a 2-0 lead after 20 minutes.

Scott Florence opened the scoring after taking control of a loose puck on Billing’s doorstep. Before LaSalle defenders could react, the veteran forward reached over to the goalie’s left with the puck and tapped it over the line for the 1-0 lead. Zach Guilbeault and Jaydon Fetter drew assists on the goal.

A Vipers four-minute double minor for high sticking contributed to the second goal, a Griffin Robinson wrist shot from the slot that found its way through traffic before pushing the mesh about a foot above ice level, uninterrupted. The tally was set up by Blake Bain and Fetter.

LaSalle cut the hosts’ lead in half after Frank Zak sent a forward pass to set Manny Silverio on a breakaway after the veteran forward snuck past Flyer defenders at centre ice. Silverio waited for netminder Connor Meyerink to commit before cutting to the right and backhanding a shot into the net.

Leamington got the goal back on its third straight power play marker when Cale Phibbs took hold of a save off a Florence shot and buried it into the left side of the net. Fetter earned his third helper of the night on the goal. Just over a minute later, Josh Pope-Ferguson and Robinson broke out on a two-on-one rush. Exercising the perfect degree of patience, Pope-Ferguson held onto the puck long enough to avoid a diving defenseman before sending it across to Robinson, who one-timed the feed into the top left corner of Billing’s net. Kade McKibbon also drew an assist on the goal.

The Vipers outshot Leamington 17-10 through the middle 20 minutes.

The Flyers were outshot 17-11 in the third stanza, but

again did all the damage on the scoreboard. Robinson completed his hat trick with some elusive stick work before sending a point blank, short side shot through an opening and past Billing. Nicolas Mainella and Bain were credited with assists.

The Vipers’ frustration began translating into penalties as the period progressed, allowing the scoring to end with a five-on-three power play tally for Liam Hogan. Like Robinson’s game winner, the Hogan shot came from the slot and travelled through a forest of sticks and legs before finding the back of the LaSalle goal. Fetter and Bain drew their fourth and third assists of the evening, respectively.

The Flyers were outshot 46-32 and were four for 10 on the man advantage while LaSalle went zero for five.

“I thought we played really well as a team,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski. “We gave it everything we had and when a team with this kind of skill makes that kind of effort, good things happen. We did a good job finding the open guy. You don’t beat a team like LaSalle 6-1 unless everything’s clicking. We’ve had outstanding goaltending in the playoffs too, and there’s no reason to stop now.”

“We skated hard and battled every shift — that’s how we got the win,” Robinson said of the series closer against the Vipers.

“I thought it was a tough series,” said Meyerink, who’s put up a .949 save percentage in seven playoff games thus far. “They were shooting from every area. Some of those shots were good quality, but a lot of them weren’t. The credit for that goes to our defense. What they’ve done goes unnoticed by some people, but it’s not going unnoticed by me.”

The Flyers will again face the London Nationals in the Western finals. The third-seeded Nationals upset the second-place Chatham Maroons four games to one, also finishing the series Thursday night with a 6-1 win. In the regular season, London defeated Leamington

5-3, 4-3, 8-2, 6-3, 6-3 and 3-1 for a six-game sweep.

“They’ve had their way with us all season, but now, we’re not worried about London,” said Piroski. “We’ll come up with a game plan. There’ll be a bunch of guys in red and white working extremely hard.”

“It’ll be a really good series,” added Robinson. “If we play them like we played tonight (Game 6 against LaSalle), we can take them.”

Game 5 against the Vipers ended in a 3-2 win for Leamington in LaSalle Wednesday, March 22. PopeFerguson and Zach Guilbeault gave the Flyers a 2-0 lead to start the second period, where Jack Bowler eventually brought the Vipers to within a goal. Dallas Maurovic responded a few minutes later with the game winner late in the middle frame. During a power play with their net empty, LaSalle again pulled to within a goal on a Tyler Russell goal with 58 seconds remaining. Meyerink and his team however held on for the win despite being outshot 41-23. Both teams were one for four on the power play.

Rest of the West

In the other Western semifinal, the London Nationals completed their upset of the Chatham Maroons with an 8-2 home-ice win Wednesday, March 22 for a 3-1 series lead and then a 6-1 win in Chatham the following day.

WESTERN FINAL PLAYOFF GAMES: Wed., Mar. 29 at London, 7:30 p.m. Thur., Mar. 30 at Leamington, 7:10 p.m. Sat., Apr. 1 at London, 7:30 p.m. Sun., Apr. 2 at Leamington, 7:10 p.m.

*Wed., Apr. 5 at London, 7:30 p.m.

*Thur., Apr. 6 at Leamington, 7:10 p.m.

*Sat., Apr. 8 at London, 7:30 p.m. * - if necessary

Griffin Robinson of the Flyers and Zack Hoffman of the Vipers battle for control of the puck in the corner to the right of the LaSalle net during the first period of Game 6 in the Western Conference semifinals Thursday, March 23 at Highbury Canco Arena. Robinson scored three goals in Leamington’s 6-1 win, allowing the Flyers to take the series four games to two. (Sun photo)

series Flyers goalie Connor Meyerink is congratulated by LaSalle’s Eli Billing following Game 6 of the Western semifinals. (Sun photo)