November 18, 2015

Leamington remembers service and sacrifices of fellow Canadians

By Pat Bailey

There were many tears shed at last week’s Remembrance Day service at the Leamington cenotaph, especially by Julie Scratch.

While the service was indeed emotion-filled, it was the arrival of one veteran in particular that caught the Leamington mother off guard –the appearance of Corporal Shannon Gray.

Based in Petawawa, Gray surprised her mother by arriving in Leamington in time for the Remembrance Day ceremony.

Gray has been in the army for 14 years, serving as a medic in the military during a ninemonth tour in Afghanistan. Remembrance Day for Gray is always sure to evoke emotion.

“I brought two friends home in body bags,” she said following the service. Her fellow med-

ics were killed, she said, when IEDs (improvised explosive devices) exploded.

There were hundreds on hand to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the name of freedom.

Following the parade from the Legion to the cenotaph, which included a large number of students from Leamington District Secondary School, guests were reminded of those who made the ultimate sacrifice and wreaths were laid by community groups, schools, Legion representatives and government representatives.

Mayor John Paterson addressed the crowd, stressing the importance of Nov. 11.

“We remember the service and the sacrifices of more than 1.5 million Canadians,” said Pa-

terson. “Their service and sacrifices cannot be forgotten.”

He spoke of the faces of the armed forces, young and old, and thanked them for their service.

“As we stand here today in the security and peace that defines Canada,” added the mayor, “I ask you to remember those who have sacrificed for us.”

“Those Canadians who are fighting in foreign countries today… we thank you,” he said. “Those who have served and are here today… we thank you — and those who did not return… we thank you.”

“We will always remember you.”

Students from Leamington District Secondary School were active participants in Leamington’s Remembrance Day ceremony. Above, they read ‘In Flanders Fields’.

Corporal Shannon Gray, formerly of Leamington, and mom Julie Scratch lay a wreath at the Remembrance Day ceremony last Wednesday.

Students showed their support, joining in the parade to the cenotaph.

MCB collecting toys for Hiatus House

By Bryan Jessop

Celebrating the Christmas holiday season as a time to support those in need is a notion that is alive and well at Mount Carmel Blytheswood Public School.

Starting on Monday, Nov. 9, a class of Grade 5 to 8 students lead by teacher Trevor Stanley and educational assistant Tammy Fanara launched a campaign to collect toys for children in the Windsor-Essex County region affected by domestic violence. Toys for youths and gift cards for mothers displaced from their homes by abusive environments are being collected until Thursday, Nov. 19. As of noon on Friday, Nov. 13, about 30 toy donations had been collected and placed under a tree created by Stanley’s class.

Stanley estimates that by the time the school-wide collection campaign wraps up, more than 100 contributions will have arrived at the school. He explained that some of families of MCB students have already committed to shopping for gifts to support the Hiatus House initiative.

“The kids are so excited to bring in presents that their families bought,” Stanley explained of the collection effort that spans from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 classes. “They’re really eager to help kids who have nothing.”

The idea to support Hiatus House began shortly after the arrival of new students whose mother works at the Windsor location. After being made aware of the holiday needs for Hiatus House in Windsor — which just added six new beds to accommodate increased demand for its services — Stanley discussed the facility with his students. The entire class-

room expressed an interest in helping displaced, domestic violence families in need of assistance. To start, the students made an eight ft.-tall tree for the school’s front foyer, decorated with ornaments that each explain who is in need of donations.

The school is also collecting gift cards for Hiatus House families looking to stock their new homes with items including cleaning supplies, bed sheets, clothing and groceries.

Stanley’s class began the donation campaign with a multi-faceted marketing strategy that included the tree, a video presentation, in-school announcements and class-toclass presentations as well as a letter written by students that was sent out to all MCB families. A representative of Windsor’s Hiatus House — which serves people affected by domestic violence across the county including Leamington, Kingsville and Comber — visited Mount Carmel Blytheswood on Wednesday, Nov. 4. To make a donation directly to Windsor’s Hiatus House, contact the facility at 519-2527781. Stanley noted that gift cards for gas stations, grocery stores and Walmart are in high demand.

The students of MCB have taken on numerous charitable projects in recent years, including annual can drives for local food banks, raising funds for a water well in Africa and collecting new toothbrushes for a school in Africa.

“Our school likes to help out those in need, whether it’s locally or around the world,” Stanley noted.

Mt. Carmel-Blytheswood Public School teacher Trevor Stanley, educational assistant Tammy Fanara and a group of their Grade 5 to Grade 8 students display a Christmas tree designed and built by the students as part of a program to support Hiatus House in Windsor. The school is accepting toy and gift card donations until Thursday, Nov. 19.

Pedaling for Docs: 4,350 miles, 44 days, $20,000

By Pat Bailey

You could say Dr. Charles Morgan has gone the extra mile in an attempt to raise funds and awareness of the Community for Doctors Committee.

In fact he’s gone nearly 4,350 miles (or 7,000 kilometres) in 44 days, raising about $20,000 in an ongoing campaign to help recruit doctors to the underserviced LeamingtonKingsville and outlying area.

Morgan, 62, a retired dentist from Kingsville, joined the committee about two years ago, looking for a way to give back to the community. While he was happy to support the group’s fundraising efforts, Morgan said he was looking for an alternative way to raise money.

He said while he bought tickets for the gala, it just wasn’t his thing.

Instead, Morgan wanted to find a way to raise money, while doing something he loves – long distance cycling.

Scheduled to participate in a ride from Portland-to-Portland (Oregon to Maine), through the tour group Trek Travel, Morgan pitched the idea of turning it into a fundraiser to the committee – and “Pedaling for Docs” was borne.

“It was a great idea,” said former committee chair Frank Ricci, “it gave the committee good exposure.”

In the ongoing fundraiser, a simple donation entitles donors to become honorary members of the team, according to Morgan.

In an effort to keep those ‘team members’ up-to-date, Morgan said he developed a video blog which was displayed on the video monitor at Leamington District Memorial Hospital, on Facebook and Twitter.

He said he was shocked to learn of the number of people who followed along, especially those with no ties to the area who made donations totalling about $3,000.

About a month following the completion of the journey (Oct. 6), and a two and a half week trip abroad, Morgan sat down to discuss the highlights and lowlights of the 44-day trip.

The friendships made and the beautiful sights taken in top the list when it comes to memories made biking coast to coast, he said. Despite the ages of the 20 cyclists participating, ranging from 34 to 75, from all walks of life, Morgan said they all bonded through their love of riding and their goal of completing the cross-country trip.

“My biggest takeaway,” he said, “getting to know people in the group and the friendships that developed.”

He said the tight cohesiveness was amazing.

“You had nobody else,” he added, “it’s an experience I’ll never forget.”

Morgan said it was the support of his fellow riders that kept him going on the toughest of days. He said without that support, cycling more than 160 km a day in less than ideal conditions on some days, including steady rain and gale force winds, he probably wouldn’t have been able to complete the ride.

Some particularly tough portions of the ride for the dentist from the flatlands of Essex County included the climbs in the Rocky Mountains and Big Horn Pass in Montana – with a total of 145,000 feet in climbing through the trip.

“You just can’t train for that,” he said. Instead, Morgan trained for endurance and speed, riding from 80 km to 200 km every day in the five months leading up to the ride.

On the descent, Morgan said, “I would just lay it out”, racing downhill at speeds of up to 52 miles per hour. In hindsight, he admitted, it may not have been the wisest choice.

He said only one member of the group was unable to complete the trip – a cyclist from Holland who was struck by a car and fractured his leg just 200 kilometres shy of the finish line.

Some of the most beautiful spots that left Morgan awestruck include Badlands National Park in South Da-

kota, Big Horn Park in Wyoming and the New England region as a whole – bedecked in its fall foliage.

Another highlight of the trip was the arrival of Dr. Tim O’Callahan, president of the Essex County Medical Society, in Toledo, Ohio. As a show of support, he said O’Callahan, a cyclist himself, joined him on the ride for the day.

While the ride may be over, Morgan said the fundraiser will continue. His hope, he said, is that the money he helped raise will be responsible for helping attract more doctors to settle in Essex County.

Since 2007, Ricci said the committee has successfully attracted at least eight new doctors to the area. He said his committee provides up to $40,000 in incentives and to help cover the expenses of doctors relocating to the area to set up a practice.

Ricci said $10,000 grants are available in four categories to prospective doctors willing to make the move. He said they include relocation costs, start-up costs, housing assistance and retention assistance.

Living in a beautiful and financially sound part of the country, Morgan said there is no reason not to have good, local health care available. He said eventually he’d like to see local people able to access specialty care, right here in the county.

Here is the link to Morgan’s blog: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=NVdqyMp6I_Q

Dr. Charlie Morgan

On Oct. 6, after 44 days of pedaling, Charlie Morgan signifies the completion of the ride by dipping the tires into the Atlantic in Portland, Maine. (Photos courtesy of Charlie Morgan)

Saturdays at the rink

Hockey season is in full swing everywhere, from the NHL all the way down to the tiny mite players stepping on the ice for the first time.

The game has changed so much since I was young. Sure, it’s still hockey, played with sticks and pucks and skates. But subtle differences introduced over the years have changed the game in many ways.

If you were lucky and talented enough to make the AllStars, you played later in the day on Saturday, or sometimes even Friday night. All-Star teams competed against other centres in Essex County like Essex, Shoreline and Sandwich West.

During my youth, Leamington’s minor hockey system was still in its infancy, having been formed in the late 1950s.

When I first stepped onto the ice at the old Leamington arena, it was 1969 and up until that point, house league teams were formed according to what school you attended, which was the way they had done things since the beginning of minor hockey here.

All of the Wheatley and Kingsville kids were also part of the Leamington system, until each of those communities got their own arenas in the 1970s.

House teams played only within the Leamington system. One Saturday a season, Minor Hockey Day, house league teams would host those from a far away centre, like Stratford or Oakridge Acres, for a series of exhibition games.

Now, house league teams travel all over the county to compete, mostly due to lower registration numbers all across the board.

The travel teams, or All-Stars, which they were called in those days, were made up of the best players available. Anyone could go out in September and try out for the All-Stars, vying for the chance to represent your town against other centres.

With that 1969-70 season, the school system of forming teams was dropped and local businesses were approached to sponsor the house league teams.

Back then, hockey started in late September or early October and ended in March.

This way, kids were free to pursue other interests that weren’t hockey related.

All-star tryouts began a couple of weeks before house league teams were formed.

Somewhere along the line, that has all changed. Kids are skating in the summer now, trying to make the travel teams. That’s happening all over the place, not just locally.

My first year was during that transition. Although we were known as the Wheeler Dealers because of the sponsor, our jerseys still read “Mersea” on them (representing Gore Hill and East Mersea). We played against teams from St. Mike’s, Wheatley and M.D. Bennie. Early that season, sponsors took over and our competition was then known as Builders’ Exchange, Tann’s Alignment and Bernhardt Plumbing, among others.

There were 10 teams in the Atom division that year, which means a total of about 120 kids in that division alone. Every other division was the same too, which meant there were well over 500 kids playing in the house league in 1969.

I have a great-nephew who plays in Cambridge and he plays all-year-round.

That’s too much hockey in my opinion. Kids should be able to focus on something else in the off-season, otherwise there could be a mass exodus of kids from the minor hockey systems when they reach puberty and grow tired of the daily grind of hockey.

Hockey shouldn’t be a daily grind. Hockey should be fun and exciting with each season starting anew, not knowing whom your teammates will be or how well your team will fare against your competition.

Of course, equipment was cheap and not regulated and hockey was as popular as ever. After all, the Leafs had just won the Stanley Cup a mere two years earlier.

Mason jar rubber bands doubled as elastics to hold up your hockey socks in those days. You felt special if your mom went to the Sport Shop and actually bought you real half-inch thick elastics to hold your socks up. These always seemed to be in great supply during fall canning season. Go figure.

If you’ve ever heard Wayne Gretzky talk about minor hockey, you’ve heard him say that kids should have other interests. The Great One himself was a talented baseball player in his youth and spent a lot of time on the ball diamond. Who can argue with that logic?

Don’t get me wrong. There are some great things going on in minor hockey.

The Southpoint organization recently launched the First Shift program, which allows underprivileged kids an opportunity to play at a drastically reduced cost. That can only be a good thing, getting kids interested in playing Canada’s game.

The only tape available was black or white and it was for your straight wooden stick blade. There was no sock tape. Your socks were always tight anyway. They didn’t start making the oversized socks until well into my hockey career. It was a chore to pull those tight socks up over the shin pads in those days.

But there comes a time of year that Canada’s game should take a break so that everyone, including organizers, coaches and players can catch their breath and renew their interest in this great game.

In the long run, you’ll have a stronger system due to players sticking around well into their teens.

We played a game every Saturday morning. House league games in those days were all played on Saturday, which was usually the only day that families had to spare. Sundays were not used for house league hockey, I’m assuming because of church.

Of course, that would require every minor hockey system in the country to change their ways and we all know that’s not going to happen.

ERCA seeking nominees for Conservation Awards

As the quest to create a clean, healthy and sustainable environment for the Windsor-Essex region continues, the Essex Region Conservation Authority wants to recognize the efforts of those in the community who are making tangible improvements.

If you know of an organization or individual who has contributed to the environment in the past year, ERCA want to hear about them. ERCA is calling for nominations for its 2015 Conservation Awards. These awards honour and recognize those in the community who have made outstanding contributions towards improving the natural environment, and ultimately the health and quality of life in the Essex Region.

The Youth Award recognizes a youth leader who has undertaken habitat or conservation projects or activities and is a student in the elementary or secondary schools of the region.

The Education Award is for excellence in conservation education programs or projects in schools, organizations, companies, youth groups, etc.

The Volunteer Award is for outstanding effort in volun-

teering time and services for conservation programs and projects. The Environmental Achievement Award is for programs or projects which have enhanced the region’s environment. In addition to individuals and organizations, municipalities can also be nominated for environmental achievements. Nominations can be submitted online at www.erca.org by clicking the About ERCA page and the ‘Conservation Awards’ tab, or nominators can simply write a one-page summary of the individual or organizational accomplishments that merit the receipt of the award. Be sure to include the category, name, address and phone number of the nominee, in addition to your own name, address and telephone number.

Nominations close on Friday, December 11, 2015. The awards, presented since 1992, will be presented at ERCA’s Annual General Meeting in January 2016.

For more information on any of these awards, contact Danielle Breault Stuebing at 519-776-5209 ext. 352. Nominations can be faxed to 519 776 8688, or e-mailed to dstuebing@erca.org

MARK RIBBLE Rib’s Ramblings

Delegations address Council

By Bill Chaplin

The first delegation to address Municipal Council at the Monday, Nov. 16 meeting were representatives of Leamington Minor Soccer who presented the town with a cheque for $150,000, representing their entire fundraising goal toward a field house for the soccer pitch.

The second delegation was Communities in Bloom. Provincial judge Kathy Smyth presented the Provincial Five-Bloom Award to Council and praised the efforts of the committee that achieved such distinction. Catherine Riediger and Bill Sherk presented the bound book about the community that was used by the judges during the Communities in Bloom competition.

The last delegate to address council was Tam Do, a student from Leamington District Secondary School. She spoke to Municipal Council about the relationship between the town planters and the harmful blue-green algae blooms that have caused havoc in the western basin of Lake Erie.

The water soluble fertilizer that is dissolved in the water used to water the planters throughout the town is very high in phosphorus, the nutrient that is causing the algae blooms that are harming the lake.

She asked the Council (and the public) to do more to protect the lake by discontinuing the

use of high phosphate fertilizer for strictly cosmetic purposes. Plus, planting native flowers and perennials that do not require added phosphorus, especially pollinator plants that enhance habitat for attractive insects, would reduce demand for phosphates.

Municipal Council agreed to have consultations with the EcoTeam from the school to initiate changes.

Habitat for Humanity building proposal

By Bill Chaplin

At the Mon. Nov. 16 meeting of Council, administration recommended the sale of a municipally-owned building lot on Rickway Drive to Habitat for Humanity. The proposal is to sell the lot to Habitat for Humanity for $50,000 (which is less than its assessed value) and to add $20,000 to that money to develop the adjacent land into a small neighbourhood park after consultation between residents and administration.

Mike Van der Vlist, the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex, announced that a Re-Store will open in Leamington in March. The comments he made about the proposed housing development emphasized that the impact of their activities is not only direct – providing housing for those who need it – but also indirect. By providing decent, affordable housing, the children of the family have a better chance at leading a happy, productive lifestyle.

The letter about the idea that was mailed to the residents of Rickway generated a number of opinions. One resident spoke about the municipal abandonment of the park. He spoke about 10% of the park being sold to the apartment building in July for parking. Now, one third of the remaining park is being sold. When he moved to Rickway the ‘building lot’ was covered in playground equipment. There is no objection to the Habitat for Humanity proposal, merely the loss of park area.

Councillor Larry Verbeke asked if construction of a new house would require construction of a new fence as well. The answer is that it is not required unless added as a condition of sale.

Councillor John Jacobs asked, since he has seen little activity in the park, would there be that great a change if some were lost.

The reply was that a major reason for wanting the full size park is because it is used for activities that do not fit into a yard, like playing ball and kicking a soccer ball.

Administration responded that the size of the remaining park would be comparable to small tot-lots like at the Mill Street parking lot or Chestnut Street Park.

Both Councillor John Hammond and DeputyMayor Hilda MacDonald were passionate about the importance they attach to the benefit of the Habitat action and support the Habitat for Humanity proposal.

The matter was passed unanimously by Council.

Leamington Minor Soccer presented the town with a cheque for $150,000 toward a field house for the soccer pitch. From left to right are Tony Omar (treasurer and past president of the minor soccer association), Elder Rebeiro (president), Deputy-Mayor Hilda MacDonald and Bob Rumball (vice-president).

Local girl survives Paris terrorist attack

By Pat Bailey

A week ago Mikaela Batke was a carefree, small town, 23-year-old enjoying her life abroad, soaking up a little Parisian culture.

Today, Mikaela is a survivor of the deadliest terrorist attack to hit the capital of France since World War II, with 129 reported dead.

For the Kingsville District High School graduate, it started as a day like any other day, since arriving six weeks ago, to take on the duties of an au pair.

After a day of caring for her charge, three-year-old Candelaria, Mikaela planned to take in a little night life on the streets of Paris with a fellow au pair.

But their plans were interrupted – by the deadly plans of eight terrorists believed to be members of ISIS.

Mikaela left home about 9:30 p.m. Friday night, taking the subway to Oberkampf Station, anxious to meet up with her friend.

She didn’t get quite the greeting she expected when she stepped out at the station and onto Boulevard Voltaire. There was no fellow au pair waiting to greet her – instead, it was utter chaos.

Mikaela said there was a wave of police officers and ambu-

lances heading down the street, the officers yelling frantically at those on the street to get down and hide. As Mikaela hit the ground, the sounds of an exchange of gunfire rang through the night sky, leaving her frozen and unable to move.

She immediately sent a Facebook message to her sister Mariah, alerting her to the predicament she was in.

When the shooting stopped, Mikaela said they were ordered to ‘run away’ – but the subway she had exited just moments earlier had since been shut down.

Alone in a foreign country, about 6000 kilometres away from her hometown, where the only explosions heard are the fireworks that light up the skies over Lakeside Park on Canada Day or to signal the start of ‘Fantasy of Lights’ and the only gunfire echoes in the distance when local hunters take aim at the waterfowl overhead, Mikaela was shaken and alone.

Her intuition told her to run away from the sounds of gunfire, unknowingly leading her directly towards La Bataclan, the venue where at least 100 people had been taken hostage and later killed. But along the way, she came across a café, seeking refuge from the unbelievable scene she had just witnessed.

Now on lockdown in complete darkness with dozens of others, unaware of the scope of the attack, Mikaela said her immediate thought was of family and trying to get word to them that she was safe. But with every other person having the same thought, Mikaela said it made it impossible to send texts or make phone calls.

At about 11 p.m., after about 45 minutes in the café, Mikaela said they were given the all clear to exit the café and head home.

Alone once again, she ran from subway station to subway station, trying frantically to find one that was still operating. Unfamiliar with the area, Mikaela, confused and disoriented, said she walked the streets, looking for landmarks.

She eventually found her way to Place de Republique, where the nightmare continued. She said the scene was horrific. After later watching news reports, Mikaela said she realized some of the horror she witnessed was the actual hostage taking at La Bataclan and the subsequent shootout between the terrorists and security.

“I can’t describe what it feels like to know that I safely walked away while terrorists were beginning to take all of those people hostage,” she said.

“The entire square was blocked off by military and police trucks,” she said through an email interview, “and people were screaming and crying.”

(Continued on page 7)

Twenty-three-year-old Mikaela Batke of Kingsville with the threeyear-old visually impaired youngster she cares for in Paris. (Photos courtesy of Mikaela Batke)

A growing memorial formed at the barricade blocking off the street near the La Bataclan concert hall.

Local girl survives Paris terrorist attack

(Continued from page 6)

Looking for assistance in a combination of English-French, Mikaela said she finally found someone who was able to direct her to a subway station that was operational. Once safely on the subway, Mikaela said she finally learned the magnitude and severity of the attacks.

“I kept refreshing news reports,” she said, “and every five minutes the reported death count rose.”

After bypassing several stops blocked off by police, Mikaela said she was finally able to make a connection which took her home.

“I had an emotional reunion with my host parents,” she said, “and we watched news reports until almost 3 a.m.”

Upon her return, Mikaela said she was finally able to contact friends and family – about two hours after sending her sister the frantic message of gunfire.

“Combined with the breaking news (on television and on virtually all types of social media), and my lack of a response,” said Mikaela, “she probably thought I was a goner.”

When she was finally able to contact her parents, Leigh and Jim, who were attending a hockey tournament in Ohio, Mikaela said they were just thankful she had made it out safely, as were countless family members and friends who sent their thoughts and prayers.

“I am so grateful and overwhelmed by the amazing response I received from friends and family,” said Mikaela. “I have felt incredibly supported which has made this ordeal easier.”

While many visitors to ‘The City of Lights’ might seriously consider making a beeline for the airport at first light, Mikaela has no plans to return to Kingsville until her scheduled January departure.

She said she will not let terrorists make her live in fear. She said the Paris authorities have taken extraordinary measures to protect the city and she said she plans on returning to her preattack routine in the near future.

“These attacks are intended to incite fear,” said Mikaela, “and I believe we should stay strong.”

“That includes returning to daily life,” she added, “and I intend to enjoy the city instead of hiding in fear.”

And Sunday she did just that. The mood around the city was

somber – yet positive, she said. She visited some of the memorials and but found the Parisians are being defiant and refuse to let Friday’s terrorism instill fear in them.

While this tragic experience will definitely have a lifelong impact on her, Mikaela said it certainly has not diminished her love of the city.

“It is a beautiful, historic city, which has now shown its resiliency and strong sense of community,” she said.

Its people, she said, have also left a strong imprint on her life.

“I witnessed countless kind acts amidst the terror,” said Mikaela. “Strangers offered to help me with directions in the street, taxis were taking people to safer locations for free, bars and cafes were protecting people from the gunfire and Parisians were opening their homes to victims who needed a place to go.”

“I now see Paris as the same beautiful and culturally diverse city it was before,” she added, “only now I see it stronger than ever.”

Upon her return, Mikaela will be employed as an occasional teacher with the Greater Essex County District School Board.

And as a graduate of the Concurrent Education program at Brock University, Mikaela will certainly have a lesson to share with her students – a tale of survival on the streets of Paris –one so personal, no history textbook could compare.

Mikaela Batke, pre-terrorist attack, taking in the sights in Paris, like the Eiffel Tower. (Photos courtesy of Mikaela Batke)

A sign near La Bataclan concert hall where about 100 concert goers were taken hostage and killed in Friday’s terrorist attack.

in the in the in the in the in the

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, you may need to exercise a lot of patience this week. Practice some deep breaths, and find some relaxing music to keep you calm. Your patience will pay off.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, your efforts will be fueled by passion this week. You are likely to put your whole heart behind projects and your relationships. Others will respect you for it.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, in order to make real progress this week, you must evaluate your goals and your priorities. Health should be at the top of this list, so make an effort to be healthier.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, no matter which big decision you need to make this week, run some ideas by trusted friends and family first. They may offer some words of wisdom.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, others are getting the sense that you are restless. When you slow down and think about it, you will probably see they're correct. Find a new, challenging project.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22

Avoid any deep entanglements for the time being, Virgo. You need to keep things light until you are able to devote more time to your various relationships.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, too many changes happening really fast could make you feel a bit off-kilter. Find something that makes you feel comfortable and embrace that task or place for now.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22

Intense feelings could bubble to the surface this week, Scorpio. Try to maintain a level head and make the most of this sudden surge of energy.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, a personality clash can be a tricky situation, especially at work. Take the higher ground and you will come through unscathed and better for it.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20

This is a super week for new friendships, Capricorn. Join a new group or simply strike up a conversation with a coworker with whom you share an interest.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20

Take some time now to make home life a priority, Aquarius. You have been going hard at work lately, but now is a great time to make family a bigger priority.

You must back up an argument with research and proof, Pisces. Get your facts straight before you forge ahead.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

NOVEMBER 15

Chad Kroeger, Singer (41) NOVEMBER 16

Brandi Glanville, Reality Star (43) NOVEMBER 17

Danny DeVito, Actor (71) NOVEMBER 18

David Ortiz, Athlete (40) NOVEMBER 19

Jodie Foster, Actress (53) NOVEMBER 20

Dierks Bentley, Singer (40) NOVEMBER 21

Carly Rae Jepsen, Singer (30) ANSWERS ON PAGE 29

Teacher sells “dream car” to former student

With lake levels reaching the highs of 1998 due to the impacts of the past two winter seasons, the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) continues to monitor these levels and work with all municipal partners to ensure that they are prepared in case of flooding.

resulting wave energy can be immediately and significantly destructive to these properties.

ERCA has been actively contacting Emergency Response services across the region and is working at ensuring cross-municipal cooperation and the sharing of resources in case lake flooding occurs.

Jim Hendry of Burlington writes: “It all started in 1958 while I was a 13-year-old Grade 8 student at Ryerson Senior Public School on Queen St. South in Hamilton. That’s when I saw it – a yellow 1957 Mercury Monterey convertible with black vinyl top and black-andwhite pleated interior. It was the size of a bus with tons of chrome. It was instant love and I wanted it.

“The owner was Mr. Armstrong, a teacher at Ryerson. I told him if he ever wanted to sell it, I would buy it. With me not yet 14, he probably forgot about it.

“In the fall of 1963, I had just finished high school and was out working when a good friend told me the car of my dreams was for sale and still owned by Mr. Armstrong, who was still teaching at Ryerson. I went to the school and repeated my offer, and to my great surprise he remembered me because he said it was one of the tales he loved to tell about some of his past students. The deal was done!

“The car was in perfect shape, both in engine and body, but it did have some quirks. The car had a 3-speed automatic transmission with a push-button gear selector on the left side of the dashboard. I could never keep its light bulb from burning out, which caused problems, especially at night when you backed up to talk to a car full of girls and forgot you were in reverse.

“The car sometimes jumped into passing gear by itself when you accelerated, and the only way to get it out of that gear was to turn off the ignition key, which caused all kinds of problems, including backfiring!

“A police officer was in front of me at a stoplight on King Street at Sanford Avenue on a Sunday afternoon. The light turned green, he pulled away and I gently stepped on the gas. The big 312 cubic inch V8 jumped into passing gear! The tires squealed and the back of the car bottomed out, scaring the heck out of me and the cop. I finally convinced him the car did it on its own and he let me go with a warning to have it repaired, but no reason could ever be found for it happening. When it did happen, you could see the gas pedal go to the floor by itself.

“We finally parted company after an old girlfriend, who thought she was a prom queen, decided to sit on the top of the passenger front seat and broke it. That was the end of my dream car.”

“There have been four substantial storm events and flooding that have affected portions of the shoreline areas so far this year,” explains Tim Byrne, Director of Watershed Management Services. “During two of those storms, water levels over roads exceeded 0.6 metres, or 2 feet. Once water levels surpass 0.4 of a metre or 16 inches, typical passenger vehicles cannot travel through the area, resulting in homeowners with only regular vehicles being trapped in the homes that are surrounded with flood water.”

Presently, ERCA is also monitoring wind conditions, as winds – especially those from the northeast – can more significantly impact shoreline municipalities and residents and are more concerning for these areas than rainfall. As well, because of the high water levels, damages are occurring with wind speed and durations that are must lower than those that would normally cause problems. Strong winds push the lake waters against the shoreline and the

To date this year, a significant number of breakwalls have been damaged to the point of requiring reconstruction and in some cases replacement. The areas most affected along Lake Erie were the east coast of Leamington and the shoreline of Pelee Island. In addition to the private property damage, municipal pumping systems, roads and road shoulders have sustained damage.

In fact due to storm damage, the parking lot at Hillman Marsh’s South Beach will remain permanently closed due to significant erosion and related safety issues.

“Studies estimated that portions of the Hillman Beach shoreline are eroding at a rate of 1.280 metres or 4.2 feet per year,” Byrne added. “Over 2014 and 2015, multiple storms have resulted in damaging waves impacting shoreline

infrastructure and eliminating sections of the barrier beach shoreline. Additionally, the erosion has made the trees that grew on this beach front unstable as the soil around their roots is washed away and no longer exists resulting in more than100 hazardous trees.”

There is presently an alternative access point to the beach from the North Beach parking lot. However, as erosion continues on this beach, this publicly accessible area will eventually need to be closed as well, once the parking lot disappears and trees become hazardous.

Time extension requested

By Bill Chaplin

Leamington Council approved the continued use of a dwelling at 394 Seacliff Dr. W. during construction of a new home on the property back in the summer of 2014.

Construction of the new building is only about half finished and the original permission has expired. Consequently the owners have requested an extension to June of next year. Such requests are not uncommon and extensions are routinely granted if construction is still underway.

Council was assured that there is a deposit in hand, so if there is a problem the municipality can go in and demolish the old house.

Council passed the request at the Nov. 15 meeting without debate.

Jim Hendry’s 1957 Mercury convertible in 1964.

Celebrate National Jersey Day in

Leamington and National Sports Day in Canada!

On Friday, Nov. 20, citizens are invited to wear a sports jersey or team uniform to school, work or play to show support for National Jersey Day in Leamington.

“It’s a great way to show support for sport and active living in Leamington,” said Mayor John Paterson. “It’s also a wonderful tribute to our local minor and adult sport teams for their fine achievements throughout the year.”

Mayor Paterson and Council invite citizens to attend a free skate sponsored by the Essex Power Youth Fund on Friday, Nov. 20 from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex (LKRC) Unico Arena (249 Sherk Street). Everyone is encouraged to wear their favourite sports jersey to show love and support for sport.

The Municipality of Leamington is once again rallying support for RBC Sports Day in Canada on Saturday, Nov. 21 by encouraging residents to participate in a visible way. “Leamington is well known for its achievement in sports and has a well-developed network of sport and recreation programs that support the community by offering many diverse sporting opportunities for children, teens, adults and seniors. National Sports Day provides an opportunity to recognize the importance of sports in our everyday lives and to acknowledge the many efforts of volunteer coaches, boards and participating athletes,” said Mayor Paterson.

Mayor Paterson and Council invite citizens to attend a free swim on National Sports Day, Saturday, Nov. 21 from 4:307:30 p.m. in the LKRC pool.

Sports Day in Canada is a national celebration of sport, from grassroots to high performance athletes, and is an opportunity for all Canadians to celebrate the power of sport, build community and national spirit, and facilitate healthy, active living.

Leamington Br. 84 Legion News

By Pat Simpson

On Nov. 7 the local Air Cadets Squadron 535 and the Leamington Flyers assisted Leamington Legion Br. 84 with the 2015 Poppy Campaign at various locations in town. Funds raised will be used locally in support of veterans’ issues.

Last Wednesday, November 11 was a beautiful, sunny day for the Remembrance Day Services. Students and school staff of Leamington District Secondary School assisted Br. 84 with the Remembrance Day ceremony. The Branch received many positive comments about the number of young people who played an active role in the Poppy Campaign as well as the service this year. There was a full house back at the Branch after the service where members were joined for lunch, prepared by the Ladies Auxiliary.

Winner of the draw for the Ladies Auxiliary was Bev Symons.

Tickets for the seniors Christmas dinner on Dec. 9 are available at the bar.

The Branch is open 12 noon-6 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 519-326-0073.

New branch regulations will be presented at the Dec. 2 general meeting for acceptance.

There was a nice turnout for Zone Darts on Nov. 14. Larry Doan and Brennan Mallott qualified in the doubles event and will now move on to Newbury for District Darts.

Soli Deo Gloria Singers to present “Fire & d’Rock”

The Soli Deo Gloria Singers, under the direction of Nancy Dyck and Wes Shuttleworth, are nearing the end of rehearsals for their upcoming concert entitled “Fire & d’Rock”. They will be performing at UMEI Christian High School, 614 Rd. 6, west of Hwy 77, north of Leamington, on Saturday, Nov 21 at 7:30 p.m. and at Leamington United Mennonite Church, 78 Oak St. E. in Leamington on Sunday, Nov. 22 at 3:00 p.m.

HAPPIER MOMS- A time for moms and children. If you’re feeling down or stresed out, or need some ideas on how to manage those rollercoaster feelings, come out on Wednesdays, November 18 & 25 to Faith Mennonite Church, 269 Sherk St. Leamington. 9:30 a.m. - Coffee and Play. 10:30 a.m. - Coping Strategies. 11:00 a.m. - Moving Our Bodies (bring your strollers and we’ll all go for a walk). For more information call 519-3266391.

STUDIES IN THE PROPHECIES OF DANIEL -every Sunday at 7:00 p.m., Seventh-day Adventist Church, 220 Erie St. N., Leamington. Topic this week: The Life and Times of Nebuchadnezzar. Study material available. All welcome. Info: 519-322-1644.

L EAMINGTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETS Wednesday, November 18, 7:30 p.m., Leamington United Church. Speaker: Susan Ross. Topic: "TeaNot Your Granny's Cuppa". All welcome for an evening of horticultural fellowship. Refreshments served. Info: Ken Clark 519-3250769.

SUN PARLOR HOME AUXILIARY

BAKE SALE & RAFFLE - Friday, November 20, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Tea and coffee will be served in the Garden View Cafe at the

Sunparlor Home for Senior Citizens, 175 Talbot St. E., Leamington. Proceeds to support new mobility bus.

CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE - HELP CARLOS "STUFF THE BUS", starting November 20, 3:00 p.m., at Tim Hortons on Erie St. S., Leamington. Bring toys, canned goods and /or coats and Carlos will stay on the bus until it is stuffed! Join Carlos and the Children's Aid Society - let's all give back to the children of Leamington this Christmas.

BAZAAR AND BAKE SALE hosted by Imperial Chapter #21 Order of Eastern Star, Saturday, November 21, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., at Masonic Temple, 1 John St., Leamington. Soup & sandwiches available.

STUDIES IN THE PROPHECIES OF DANIEL,every Sunday at 7:00 p.m., Seventh-day Adventist Church, 220 Erie St. N., Leamington. Topic Nov. 22: The Life and Times of Nebuchadnezzar. Study material available. All welcome. Info: 519-322-1644.

FOOD & FELLOWSHIP SUPPER, Monday, November 23, 5:006:00 p.m., Leamington United Church, 9 John St., welcomes those who are alone or having trouble making ends meet. No charge.

Little Tomato Children’s Theatre announces AUDITIONS FOR PETER PAN JR. Saturday, November 28, 9:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. S. Leamington (back entrance). No appointments necessary. Calling all singers, dancers and actors - children and teens ages 5-19. Prepare one minute of a Disney or Broadway show age appropriate song sung a cappella or a dance. Performance dates are May 5, 6, 7 & 8, 2016 at UMEI Theatre. For further information please contact Sharon, 519-3265649.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING MALLSaturday, November 28 at the Sun Parlor Home for Senior Citizens, 175 Talbot St. East, Leamington. 60+ vendors offering something for everyone. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Free admission, free parking, free gifts for the first hundred shoppers through the doors after 9:00 a.m. Proceeds from this event go towards the purchase of a new mobility bus for the residents.

FAITH REFORMED CHURCH

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR, Saturday, December 12, 9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., 1115 Seacliff Dr. Kingsville(at Graham Sd. Rd.). Bake sale, marketplace, bazaar & luncheon. Something for everyone!

BANK THEATRE NOTES

10 ERIE STREET SOUTH P.O. BOX 434

LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3W5 519-326-8805

BLEACHER BUMS

NOVEMBER 19, 20, 21 @ 7:30 PM, 22ND AT 2:00 PM

Come and join the die hard fans of the Chicago Cubs as they sit up in the "cheap seats". LDSS students Dawson Wigle, Ian Webber, Dylan Dundas, Steve Sartori, Kenzie Selwood, Tatum Davison, Julia Dick and Nay Moo Shar perform Bleacher Bums under the Direction of Joel Lewsaw. Tickets are $10 each, available from Counter Effects or at the door.

THE JOB IS 2/3 DONE!

Thank you, but The Bank Theatre still needs your help to get it finished. Please donate what you can, every dollar counts. For information on how to donate please visit our webpage at www.banktheatre.com or contact one of the members of our Fund Raising Committee: Rick Taves 519-326-6988, Larry McDonald 519-825-4576, or Dennis Dick 519796-2697

NOVEMBER 28TH @ 2:00 PM

Come out and celebrate the start of the Holiday Season with Gloria White's "GLORIA'S STRINGS" as they present a Christmas Jamboree. Refreshments and a friendly gathering to follow their one hour programme. A "pay what you can" donation will be appreciated and the funds presented to The Bank Theatre to assist in their endeavours to finish its renovations.

The SDG Singers have made that their mission: through their music and the words they sing they want to make that connection to the Other – to God, the Creator and Originator of All. In this fall’s concert, they will musically explore the connection between God and two of the four basic elements: Fire and d’Rock. Listeners can follow along in the concert to see how each song makes that connection.

Under the Fire category is the sun, and the stars as sources of fire too. In one of the songs, hearts can catch fire. Another claims that God’s Word is a fire. A very special song (I Am the Great Sun) has words taken from an inscribed Norman crucifix of 1632. Another old favourite asks: Can you count the stars? (Weisst du wieviel Sternlein?)

It’s going to be “back to basics” for Soli Deo Gloria Singers this year! Directors Nancy Dyck and Wes Shuttleworth have chosen to base the theme of this year’s concerts on the 4 basic elements: Earth (rock), Wind, Water and Fire. The Ancients understood these elements to be the basic building blocks of everything in this world. Sometimes they added a fifth element, the Ether (the Other), to explain their sense that all of these elements were somehow connected by something greater and beyond.

Home in D’Rock is the title of one of the Rock songs (do you think it might be a spiritual?). But they also sing about Rifted Rocks, God is a Rock and Building on Rocks. The concert program includes new exciting music along side old familiar texts and tunes.

As the winter approaches, as the cold forces people indoors, the warmth of the fireplace is welcome... with its crackling flames and radiating stones. Instinctively, people gather around the warming heart stones and tell stories and sing songs together. Fire and d’Rock ...it’s elementary!

Tickets are available in advance at Mennonite Savings and Credit Union, UMEI and from choir members, in advance and at the door. Call UMEI at 326 7448 for more info.

2015 Leamington & Mersea Historical Society Heritage award winners feted

By C. Scott Holland

It was a fabulous night of renewed friendships as well as saluting the 2015 Leamington & Mersea Historical Society’s Heritage Award winners. The accomplishments by all five award winners are tremendous and each one has served the area’s citizens in such a way that there is no doubt about them being honored for their efforts.

The gala event was held at Leamington’s Roma Club with an excellent meal, plus a bit of fun taking a stab at some local historical trivia and bidding on a table of over $3,000 worth of silent auction items that fit every taste and need. MC Paul Bunnett-Jones kept the evening going smoothly for the nearly 90 people present.

The awards ceremony began with the Heritage or Historic First Families, Groups or Organizations honor which was bestowed upon the Leamington Kinsmen and Kinettes Clubs and accepted by Cheryl Middlemist on behalf of the Kinettes and Harry Gabarino representing the Kinsmen from Will Insurance Brokers representative Paul BunnettJones.

Through the years the Kinsmen and Kinettes’ fundraisers and leadership in fundraising events and donations have been varied and have succeeded in funding many community projects. From their very first fundraiser, a house raffle that was held across Canada and made $3,000 in 1945, through stock car races, horse races, great tomato races, bingos (on radio, TV and live), Millionaires Nights, Tomato Fest beer tents, Can-Am weekends, trip of month club draws, operation of canteens at both the arena and ball diamonds (Kinsmen Sports Field), they have donated money to the Half Century Centre, Leamington Minor Baseball and Southpoint Minor Hockey, Leamington Air Cadets and Leamington Gymnastics Club to name just a few.

They’ve equipped playgrounds, purchased the very first Zamboni used at the old Leamington arena and also purchased the second one, as well as built a wheelchair ramp for the structure. They have also supported the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis, helped rebuild the Fairgrounds grandstand after it burned to the ground due to fire, provide financial aid for Leamington District Memorial Hospital both when it was first started and in the 1970s when it had a serious deficit situation.

Their vision and effort has exceeded expectations. They raised money to help build the first Leamington arena in 1954, spearheaded many community projects including the building of the first public outdoor community pool (1960), were the ones who raised money for the Kinsmen Complex and helped to get it erected. They took on the job of getting the twin-pad arena section of the Complex built too, and in doing so helped raise a good portion of the money for state-ofthe art arenas.

The Kinettes, who have been in existence since 1945 as well, have had their own fundraisers that have helped not only the community but women and children around the world.

The evening’s proceeds help the Leamington & Mersea Historical Society maintain their artifacts and museum. The Society meets on the fourth Saturday of most months at the Leamington Half Century Centre unless otherwise noted at 10:30 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.

More next week.

Receives Donny Allen Award

Trisha

to an

an Educational

the

an

Brokers. (Photo by C. Scott Holland)

Clarke,

Assistant at Queen of Peace School in Leamington received

Donny Allen Award presented

elementary teacher each year in recognition of

outstanding elementary teacher/coach in the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board. The award was presented at the Service Recognition Night held Friday, November 6 in Windsor. Queen of Peace principal Marta Marazita says that Trisha spends countless hours coaching boys and girls teams. In fact, she takes on most of the teams at the school. “We’re very proud of her and glad she was recognized,” she said. From left to right are Paul Picard, Director of WECDSB, Trisha Clarke with her award, and Barbara Holland, WECDSB Trustee Chair. (Submitted photo)

H

Leamington District Secondary School teacher Chris Klassen is surrounded by student opponents Jesse Dupuis and Sebastian Clemens during a flag football play Friday, Nov. 6. Prior to the season-ending WECSSAA football game against the Essex Red Raiders, activities including a hallway rally, the flag football match and school band performances took place in efforts to raise funds for new football equipment and the ongoing Soles4Souls program. Students paid $5 each in a ‘buyout’ to attend the events, which also earned them a ‘walking taco’. Students also had the option of paying $3 along with the donation of a gently-used pair of shoes, also for Soles4Souls. Money was also raised through a barbecue that took place during the game against Essex. About 250 students participated.

LDSS supports student’s charity campaign

By Bryan Jessop

A global cause initiated locally by a Leamington District Secondary School student has taken another couple ‘steps’ toward reaching its objective.

Grade 11 student Dany Meng’s involvement in Soles4Souls — a Mississauga-based project to deliver gently-used footwear to impoverished people around the world — was complimented with a series of school spirit activities during the week leading up to the Lions’ final WECSSAA football game of the 2015 season. On Friday, Nov. 6, LDSS students were offered ‘buyout’ opportunities to attend events including a hallway rally, teachers versus students flag football game and the Lions’ home-field match against the Essex Red Raiders early that afternoon.

For a contribution of $5, each student was able to attend the football games and received a ‘walking taco’ as prepared by the school’s S.T.E.P.S. program and hospitality class. The tacos — essentially a mixture of traditional toppings including meat mixed into a bag of Doritos — proved popular with students. The school raised about $500 to be split between buying shoes from Value Village to support Meng’s campaign and the purchase of new equipment for the LDSS football team.

The fundraiser was organized by teachers Erica Heil and Eric Muscedere and football team head coach Jason Primeau, although Heil noted that they were greeted by a significant degree of assistance from within the school’s walls.

“A lot of teachers, staff and students got involved for a fun day and to help people in need at the same time,” Heil explained. “Making the tacos was a great way for the kids to work together as a team on real-life skills. We also really wanted to support her (Meng) on this to

(Continued on page 15)

Subdivision progressing

By Bill Chaplin

Santos Construction is eager to begin building on phase two of the Destiny Estates Subdivision north of Robson Road. Administration is recommending to Municipal Council that the holding symbol be removed from the lots in phase two and that Council forward a minor amendment to a lot line to the Essex County Council for their approval.

Councillor John Jacobs confirmed with staff that all of the requirements have been met, and led Council in approving the recommendation at the Nov. 16 meeting.

OBITUARY

William Stasso

William “Bill” Stasso, 95 years passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 11, 2015.

OBITUARY

Hal Link

Beloved husband of Nellie (nee Zochinsky) for 66 years. Loving father of Bill (Marianne), Mark (Pat), Sharon Caza (Todd). Cherished grandfather of Kelly Stasso and Darren Stasso. Dearest brother of Mary Platsko (the late John) and the late Nellie, Mike and John. Bill is predeceased by Nellie’s siblings Pauline, Mary, Stella, Anne and Bill. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Bill took pride as a dedicated employee at the GM Transmission Plant for 30 years and as a farmer on Concession D in Leamington. Bill loved being with his family and they will miss him dearly.

We would like to thank the staff at Leamington Court for the exceptional care and compassion they gave, not only to Dad, but continue to give to our Mom and to us during this difficult time.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre on Saturday, November 14, 2015 from 9 a.m. until time of Funeral Service to celebrate Bill’s life at 11 a.m. Rev. Andrew Wilson officiated. Interment Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

If you wish to donate in Bill’s memory, memorial donations made by cheque to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the Heart & Stroke Foundation would be appreciated.

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

Hal Link, 78 years, passed away on Saturday, November 14, 2015 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital. Beloved husband of Charlotte. Dear father of Denise Link-Rahn (Martin), and Matthew Link (Judy). Loving grandfather of Noah, Erik and Luke. Dear brother-inlaw of Sam Higginbottom (Heather), Gary Higginbottom (Isabel), Ken Higginbottom (late Colleen), and the late Carolyn Manor (Bob). Hal will be missed by several nieces and nephews.

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

A private Funeral Service will be held. Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Leamington Hospital Foundation.

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

OBITUARY

Marion Haas

It is with great sadness that the family of Marion Ruth Haas announce her passing.

Marion passed away peacefully in Caressant Care Nursing Home, Cobden, on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 in her 94th year.

Marion Haas, nee Lott, beloved wife of the late Martin Haas. Dear mother of Margaret (late John) Dawson. Loving grandmother to Jean Paul (Lisa) Bedford and the late Tammy Bedford. Also survived by four great-granddaughters, one great-great-granddaughter and one sister Margaret (Hugh) Heaney.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 3 Fox Street, Leamington.

In lieu of flowers as expressions of sympathy, donations to First Baptist Church Leamington or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated.

Pollution control plant financing update

By Bill Chaplin

Back in 2009 Leamington entered into a loan agreement with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities in order to receive a $400,000 grant on top of a $2,000,000 low interest loan.

The $2,000,000 debenture from the FCM was received in July of 2012 with a 20-year amortization and with an option to buy out after 10 years. The grant portion had to be delayed until the plant could demonstrate improvements according to stringent criteria.

The administrative report from Leamington’s Manager of Environmental Services, Shannon Belleau, informed Council at the Nov. 16 meeting that the plant has met the grant conditions and the $400,000 was received on Nov. 2.

Frances Ross

January 4, 1918 - November 14, 2015

OBITUARY

Marie Harrison

OBITUARY

Maria Graziano

Frances Ross (nee McLeod) has gone Home in Peace and Love to be re-united with her dear husband Robert (1977), her mother and father Annis and Joseph McLeod (1988, 1976) and her cherished sister Mildred (2004). She is survived by her beloved children Bob and Cherie, Jack and Kathy; her grandchildren Rob and Emily, Chantal and Dane, Keith and Stephanie; and her great-grandchildren Ethan, Kylie, Shaughnessy, Saoirse, and Bryce.

Over the last few years, nieces and nephews from Michigan spent many hours reminiscing with their dear “Auntie Fran.” She would make tea and serve it to her visiting friends whose ages spanned five generations. She loved to hear their stories and remembered every detail to tell others. But one of her favourite pastimes was just sitting with her beloved kitty Josh.

Frances has devoted her life to family, friends, and community service, volunteering time and talents to her church, the Leamington Historical Society, and the Town of Leamington. She has welcomed thousands of people over 17 years as “The Lady in the Tomato!” In the last few years, as she faced the challenges of aging, she would say, “It’s a sorry day if you can’t learn something!” and she tried her best just to do her best, never saying an unkind word. Gracious and loyal always.

Visiting at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Wednesday, November 18, 2015 from 1 p.m. until time of service to celebrate Frances’ life at 2 p.m. Interment Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

If you wish to donate in Frances’ memory, memorial donations made by cheque to the Leamington Historical Society would be appreciated.

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

LDSS supports student’s charity campaign

(Continued from page 13) help her achieve her goals.”

Marie Lucille Harrison passed away at the age of 86 on Saturday, November 14, 2015 at Four Counties Hospital in Newbury, Ontario.

Beloved wife of the late Murray (2006). Survived by son Dennis (Diane) of Langton, son William (Wendy) of Rodney, daughter-in-law Barb of Rodney, sister Kathy of Leamington, brother Ed of Ohio, brother Jack of St. Thomas, and by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Predeceased by son Larry (2005), sister Connie (2006), and brother D’Arcy (2010).

Visitation at Denning’s Funeral Home in Rodney on Wednesday, November 18, 2015 from 2:00-4:00 p.m., followed by cremation.

Donations to the Daffodil Society or charity of choice appreciated.

OBITUARY

Margaret Van Roie

Maria Graziano, 77 years, passed away Friday November 13, 2015 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital.

Beloved wife of the late Gaetano (2011). Dear mother of Santo (Linda), Vita Accardo, Gaspare (Krystal). Loving Nonna to Thomas and Tyler Graziano, Vincenza and Darryl DiMilo, Joseph Accardo, Dario and Gia Graziano. Dear sister of Pietro Minaudo (Stella), Giuseppe Minaudo (Josephine). Predeceased by two brothers Andrea and Antonino (the late Caterina). Several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends also survive.

Visiting was at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington, on Sunday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

Mass of the Resurrection was held at St. Joseph’s Church, 310 Sherk Street, Leamington, on Monday, November 16, 2015 at 10 a.m. Entombment Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Canadian Diabetic Association

Friends may send condolences or make a charitable contribution online at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Margaret Van Roie, 89 years, passed away on Thursday, November 12, 2015 at the Sun Parlor Home. Beloved wife of the late Adolf (1997). Dear mother of Jacky (Loretta), Willy, the late Eddy (Diana), the late Guy (Kathy), Myriam Smith (Murray), Susy Skjerven, Marleen Shelswell (Bob), the late Ben (Carol), Ruthy Masse (Randy), Lucy Sedlak (Mike), Shane (Susie). Loving Mama of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Predeceased by her brother, Louis Pyl (late Julia). Loved by many nieces and nephews in Belgium.

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

Funeral Service to celebrate Margaret’s life was held at the Funeral Home on Monday, November 16, 2015 at 11 a.m. Fr. Pat Fuerth officiated. Interment Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Sun Parlor Home (Bus).

Another buyout option for students was to pay $3 in addition to offering a pair of shoes to Soles4Souls. About 75 pairs of footwear were added to Meng’s collection in addition to what Heil hopes will be between 75 and 100 more pairs the school will purchase at Value Village. The event raised $1,000 and cleared about $500 after food expenses.

Friends may share memories and make donations at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Activities also included a field goal contest with the top three performers winning a buyout and a hula-hooping contest — also with buyout packages offered to each of the top three winners. A school pride outfit contest also earned buyout prizes to the top two girls and top two boys.

“It was a big collaborative effort where everyone really came together as a team,” Heil said.

In total, about 250 students opted to either offer the $5 buyout or $3 buyout with a pair of shoes to help Meng reach her goal of 2,000 pairs by Christmas. The funds set aside for football equipment will replace damaged equipment and worn-out jerseys.

Afghanistan veteran shares experience with students

By Pat Bailey

Corporal Joe

McLeod

doesn’t fancy himself a public speaker. But Queen of Peace grade 7 teacher Barb Gaspard begs to differ.

She said when the member of the Essex-Kent Scottish Regiment visited her classroom last Monday, Nov. 10, he connected with the youngsters immediately.

Relatively young and a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, at 43, McLeod was a definite reminder to her students to appreciate the freedoms they have –and learn a little more about why they have them. This was especially important, with his visit just two days before Remembrance Day.

She said McLeod was able to share some of his experiences while fighting in Afghanistan and the battles some face when they return home – the toll it takes on their mental health.

The father of four, who lives in Maidstone, said he always dreads having to speak in public but said that disappears when he encounters a group as engaged as the group from Queen of Peace.

He said his visit to the classroom was a favour for

a lifelong friend, Jamie McDermott, and co-ordinated through the Memory Project, which is a nationwide project that connects veterans and other Canadian Forces personnel with the opportunity to visit classrooms or other community groups and share their stories.

While not officially a speaker for the group, McLeod said, “When friends ask me to do something…”

With a military background in his family, the

corporal said he joined the army in 2007 and later served in Afghanistan for seven months – missing the birth of his second child, Joseph Jr., while deployed.

The key, he said, to getting the kids excited is his ‘bag of tricks’. McLeod said he went armed with some of his gear – hat, jacket, knapsack, bulletproof vest, and allowed some of the youngsters to try on some of the items.

“He related to the kids,” said Gaspard. “His life was real and relevant to these

kids,” she added.

“I’m just a regular guy who went to war,” said McLeod, who’s been driving truck since he was 21. “I just hope I answered the questions to their satisfaction.”

He said he shared some stories of war but was careful not to share too much.

“Everything’s not always sunshine and lollipops,” he said.

McLeod said it was a good group of kids, “raring to go”, who asked some good questions.

Queen of Peace students Massimo Maiuri, John Jekel, Joseph Caradonna and Drake Costa don Canadian military gear during a classroom visit from Corporal Joe McLeod Monday, Nov. 9.

Junior Kindergarten and Senior Kindergarten students at école St-Michel constructed and set up 120 crosses with poppies on the school’s property along the front entrance as part of its Remembrance Day ceremonies. Students from all grades took part in honouring Canada’s war veterans on Wednesday, Nov. 11.

Pelee Wings Nature Store & Paddlesport Shop

Pelee Wings Nature Store began on Main Street in Kingsville in 1989 but after 3 years the owners realized they needed to be closer to Point Pelee National Park to service their core clientele. After purchase of the former Lakeshore Motel on Point Pelee Drive they invested an additional $500,000 + in building expansions, shoreline breakwall and amenities to transform their 200’ of waterfront into a unique Specialty Store. Pelee Wings has 3 main points of focus - 1) Sports Optics & Birding – Binoculars & Spotting Scopes 2) Paddlesports - encompassing Kayaks, Stand-Up-Paddleboards & Canoes and, 3) a Large Nature-themed Gift Shop. The owners and staff all bring unique qualifications that have made the store successful. Customers love the unique Gift Shop selection of hard-to-find nature gifts. Co-owner Joan Walker, who studied Fine Art at the Ontario College of Art, manages the Nature Gift Shop. She brings a critical eye to selecting wildlife themed jewelry, nature giftware in glass, wood and ceramics, wildlife based stationery, as well as a full selection of birding and wildlife books, DVDs,

and audio recordings. Joan offers a great selection of bird and wildlife clothing – shirts, vests and specialty items like Tilley and sun protection hats.

Co-owner Michael Malone, previously employed by the Canadian Wildlife Service, is the General Manager. The store employs specialty staff like the Paddlesports Manager and Kayak Trainer - Jeff Dorrell, an avid outdoorsman, who has a wealth of knowledge on kayaks, stand-up-paddleboards, canoes, paddling and light-weight camping gear. Jeff says to be sure to check out the hot new Fishing Kayaks! The Sports Optics Manager –Tom Hurst is the man in the know when customers Canada-wide seek advice on binoculars and spotting scopes to enjoy viewing our wildlife resources or the famous bird migration that passes through our region spring and fall.

Every week Pelee Wings ships binoculars and scopes from coast to coast in Canada to customers who are astounded by the 200+ models of sports optics here in stock, all at discount prices. It is not uncommon for

Toronto customers to make a week-end trip here to field-test and compare sports optics outdoors on the waterfront, something that is not available anywhere else in Ontario. The store employs part-time and seasonal staff in the store’s Kayak and Paddleboard rental and training course operations as well as in the main store.

Michael Malone states – for the 3 seasons of spring, summer and fall Pelee Wings is in the middle of the action along Point Pelee Drive and the entire Point Pelee peninsula. The Point is buzzing with activities in the National Park; Kayak and SUP rentals are heading out continually from our waterfront beach, and nature activities take place in nearby Hillman Marsh Conservation Area year round.

A unique variety of restaurants like Freddy’s, Birdie’s Perch, and Paula’s wine, dine and entertain visitors and locals alike, while other businesses like the Happy Snapper Marina services fishermen, Pelee Karts entertain the kids, and many birders shoot a round of golf at the Erie Shores course midday.

Leamington has been a

great place to invest in and live in. We love the proximity to the famous National Park that draws people from around the world, the beautiful Lake Erie waterfront location, and the local community support that has kept us viable over the past 26 years."

In winter the store now offers its 20% Off Store-Wide Sale and best pricing of the year. Come on down to Point Pelee Drive and check out the wide variety of Sale offerings.

Gillett Bantams lose, win

The Southpoint Gillett Sheet Metal Bantams put their 5 game unbeaten streak on the line Nov. 10 in Leamington against their local rivals Southpoint #10.

The game started with a lot of energy from both teams up and down the ice with the game scoreless after one period of play.

Early in the second period, Kyle Fehr from SP #10 opened the scoring to lead 1-0. As the period progressed, SP #10 opened up a 4-goal cushion with additional goals from Cade Price, Sam VanGellecum and Dylan Paparola. The Gillett boys countered with an unassisted tally from Andrew Verhaeghe off the rush with 1 second left in the period to end two periods of play at 4-1.

Southpoint #10 added 2

more goals early in the third period before Camron Taouil countered with a goal at the 10-minute mark of the third period assisted by Caeden Hutnik to make the score 6-2. This was not the Gillett’s night as Alex Stewart scored his second goal of the game late in the third to make the final score 7-2 in favour of SP #10.

Nov. 13 proved lucky for Gillett’s with a bounce back win over the visiting Kingsville Kings #4 White after a disappointing loss earlier in the week.

Camron Taouil got the home side off to an early start 3 minutes in with a terrific end-to-end rush eluding all defenders before tucking it in the back of the net. Kingsville worked hard and tied the game 1-1 with 2 minutes left in the period,

leaving it square moving into the second.

With Kingsville shorthanded, Reese Hyatt scored, assisted by Camron Taouil. Shortly after, Eric Wright and Reese Hyatt helped set up Taouil’s second of the contest to push the score to 3-1. Caeden Hutnik also scored with Taouil and Luke Gabert drawing assists to end the frame with a 4-1 score.

Both sides got in to penalty trouble in the second, and it continued through into the third with neither side able to generate sustained pressure.

Goalie Tyler Dibbley stood his ground when pressed and Andrew Verhaeghe scored on a nice effort, assisted by Eric Wright near the 5-minute mark of the third.

Overall a good effort by Southpoint in a 5-1 win.

SPCC Ladies Division Welcomes New Members

November 18, 2013

Those we love don't go away. They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and very dear. Forever in our hearts, Harold & families

The Sun Parlour Curling Club Ladies Division Executive welcomed new members to the Wednesday Ladies League this fall. Front row, left to right: Ladies vice-president Carol Quinn,

Sarah Filipchuck, Amy Saba, Linda Driedger and Alice Nohra. Back row: Ladies treasurer Sherry Wenzler, Christine Bedard, Lisa Arner and Ashley Osborne. Absent from photo: Gina Mucci.

(Submitted photo)

Golden Years mini golf

Forty-eight golfers braved the elements Nov. 12 and were rewarded with 84 aces.

Leading the assault on the course was Barry Sweet with 6 aces, followed by Laurie Hylton with 5, Marie Lasi and Bill Mayville with 4. Dropping 3 each were Murray Hartford, Perpetua Hildrop, Frank Lasi, Bill Mayville, Duane McIntosh, Moe Scratch, Gerrit Vriesen and Bryon Walker. Finding the range with 2 each were Mike Binder, Kathy Bradley, Madeline Butler, Murray Cascadden, Pete Daudlin, Tom Hyatt, Eva Kah, Betty McManus, Bob McWilliam, Andy Orsini, John Vlodarchyk, Doug Vickery and Mary Anne Vickery. Chipping in with 1 each were Mary Binder, Eunice Cascadden, Dorothy Cascadden, Cathy Dewhurst, Tom Dewhurst, Ethel Ferguson, Lloyd Honey, Tony Hudvagner, Eileen McIntosh, Barb Murphy, Al Stockwell, Art Sweet, Rose Taylor, Sharon Teskey, Elaine Hatt and Trudy Binder. A low score of 16 for 9 holes went to Murray Hartford and Laurie Hylton. Ethel Ferguson, Tom Hyatt, Laurie Hylton, Bill Ward and Barry Sweet (2) carded a 17.

Boasting a 35 for 18 holes were Tom Hyatt and Laurie Hylton. Doug Vickery and Laurie Hylton each had 36, and 37 went to Lloyd Honey, Marie Lasi, Pete Daudlin, Gerrit Vriesen and John Vlodarchyk. Notching 38 were Doug Vickery, Andy Orsini, Bill Ward (2), Mike Binder, Murray Cascadden, Barry Sweet, Bob McWilliam and Bill Mayville.

A strong round of 71 over 36 holes was captured by Laurie Hylton. Doug Vickery had 74, Lloyd Honey and Bill Ward 76, Murray Cascadden and Barry Sweet 77, and Marie Lasi, Andy Orsini, John Vlodarchyk and Bob McWilliam rounded out the scoring for 36 holes. Taking first place overall with 228 was Team 6 (Mary Ann Vickery, Laurie Hylton, Lloyd Honey). Second place with 238 went to Team 8 (Tony Hudvagner, Andy Orsini, Bill Ward). Third and final spot with 241 was captured by Team Aces (Art Sweet, Bill Taylor, Julia Kos). Play continues every Thursday at 9:30 at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens.

Lasers begin season with a splash

The Leamington Laser Swim Team (LLST) is making a splash in the pool with their 2015-2016 season well underway. Several Lasers have competed in various meets throughout the region, including London, Aylmer and Windsor, where team members came home with an abundance of medals and ribbons.

Coaches continue to see accomplishments from the swimmers on a daily basis in practice and at meets. There have been lots of personal bests set by multiple members of the team early on in the season. Special mention goes out to Ryann Child and Vladi Jidkov who set meet records in London.

The LLST is part of the St. Clair Erie Aquatic League and the swimmers participate in a variety of competitions throughout the year, both long and short course. It is an incredible organization that is solely run by volunteers, including the coaches Ben Balkwill, Jennifer Dobson, Liz Campbell and Jenn Fox.

Being a member of the team provides participants with a great opportunity to learn the technical aspects of the sport, as well as providing them with a great way to stay fit. Swimming is a healthy lowimpact activity that has many mental and physical health benefits and is something that the swimmers can continue to do for a lifetime.

The Leamington Laser Swim team is a welcoming community where swimmers challenge and support each other in daily practice and competitions. It’s a true team atmosphere.

The Laser family is proud of head coach Ben

Balkwill, who is the recipient of the Lea Bredschneider Award for Volunteer Coach of the year. The award was presented to him by Swim Ontario. He has been with the Lasers organization for many years as he was once a swimmer on the team, moved on to coaching and in the year 2000 assumed the head coaching duties. When he is not on the pool deck, he is in the classroom teaching Grade 8 for the Greater Essex County District School Board. Balkwill is credited with working hard to improve the program each year and bringing it to where it is today.

The Leamington Laser Swim Team will host their second home meet on December 13 at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Centre. The next few weeks will also include swimmers participating in meets in London and Windsor. Good luck, Lasers!

We are so very blessed to have you in our lives. You are the greatest example of what true love should be. We love you more than you will ever know. Sandra, Paul, Alex, Blake & Hope X

November 5, 1955 - 2015 The seasons come & the years pass by But love will always stay. And you two have the greatest gift of all, A Diamond Anniversary day! Congratulations Mom & Dad! With much love & gratitude, from your family

Married November 20, 1965 at North Leamington United Mennonite Church. They are blessed with three children, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. They will celebrate

golden anniversary with family. Herman & Rose Tiessen

Leamington Laser Swim Team head coach Ben Balkwill is the recipient of the Lea Bredschneider Award for Volunteer Coach of the Year from Swim Ontario. Laser president Ken Bosse (left) presented Balkwill with the award. (Submitted photo)

Quintet of Cougars to become Lancers

By Bryan Jessop

The Cardinal Carter senior football team may have missed out on a chance to three-peat as SWOSSAA 2A champs, but they’ve caught plenty of attention from higher levels of the sport.

In what appears to be an unprecedented gesture, the University of Windsor Lancers football program has offered the maximum allowable scholarship to five players from the same school to start the same Ontario University Athletics (OUA) season. Cardinal Carter’s CJ Church, Josh Vanroie, Chris Tannous, Daniel Metcalfe and Zach Benson have each been offered the maximum allowable scholarship support of $4,000 to play Lancers football starting with the 2016 season. Although it will be another seven months before it is determined which players will qualify for the full amount — an average grade of 80 per cent is required — all five Cougars have signed and are committed to represent the Lancers starting next year.

Church, who played on the offensive line with the Cougars, will vie for a spot on the offensive line — possibly centre — with the Lancers. Of the five impending Cardinal Carter (Continued on page 24)

From left to right, CJ Church, Josh Vanroie, Chris Tannous, Daniel Metcalfe and Zach Benson don University of Windsor Lancers football jerseys after signing agreements to play for the team starting with the 2016 season. (Submitted photo)

Bailey Atom girls shut out

LaSalle 7-0

Bailey Machining Atom Girls played the LaSalle Sabre Cats in Forest Glade on Saturday.

Bailey’s took an early lead when Abbey Mazzella scored with an assist from Emma Weil. LaSalle came back strong but Bailey defensemen Adriana West and Bricelyn Koehler shut them down. Alessia West took a nice pass from Megan Derbyshire near the end of the first to score the second goal for Bailey’s.

Early in the second period, Bailey’s played strong in front of LaSalle’s net and Leah Youssef tucked one in with an assist from Alessia West. Meghan Simpson slammed another goal in for Bailey’s to give the team a 4-0 lead. The second period was not over as Megan Derbyshire assisted two more goals for Alessia West and Emma Weil. Abby Neufeld and Mila Pereira worked hard to keep the puck out of their zone. Adriana West and Megan Derbyshire had multiple breakaway chances each but could not capitalize on them. Abbey Mazzella received a sweet pass from Alessia West to score one more goal for Bailey’s.

The game resulted in a 7-0 win for Bailey’s and another shutout for Evan Gualtieri.

REGISTRATION NOTICE

The new 10 week session will be starting November 30, 2015 for ages 6 to 10.

NOTE: Swimmers must be able to swim 25 meters. All other ages are welcome to join! Registration and assessment is between 5 pm and 6 pm, Friday, November 27 and Monday, November 30 only For further information, please visit our website at www.leamingtonlasers.ca

The Russians are (still)

When I was a kid making my way through the nine grades of elementary school (there was no such thing as junior kindergarten back in those days), arrivals from afar were few and far between.

There weren’t a whole lot of kids whose families left town either. Those who moved out usually didn’t go far. One moved to Staples. Another to Essex. A friend of mine who was just over an hour older than me moved to Chatham. Among those who made a new home in Wheatley back in those days was a family from Meaford. Others made a significantly longer journey. A family from Texas moved into my neighbourhood. Our school occasionally had a few arrivals from Mexico. Another not only arrived from another country, but another continent and hemisphere — New Zealand, to be a bit more precise.

It kind of goes without saying that the spectrum of professional sports introduces overseas newcomers on a far more regular basis. The National Football League introduces players from Polynesian nations on a routine basis while Major League Baseball cities are a destination for many a Caribbean player. The National Hockey League of course provides new homes to many eastern Europeans.

I remember a time when very, very few NHL players hailed from outside of North America. The Stasney brothers of then Soviet-controlled Czechoslovakia seemed to be the majority of ‘import’ players. Anton, Marian and Peter all played for the Quebec Nordiques after risking life and limb to defect from their Communist homeland. It’s difficult to describe what the Iron Curtain was all about to anyone who never rode around in a car with a carbureted engine as a kid, but the effect of its demise came quickly to the rosters of NHL teams.

By the time the 1980s came to a close, about 75 per cent all all NHL players were Canadian. The balance’s majority were Americans, with a few Scandinavians in the mix. Now, only about half of all the league’s players are residents of the Great White North. When eastern Europeans started arriving in droves, it changed the face of the game. Goons and what we used to call “policemen” — players who were signed for no other reason than to protect their team’s leading scorers — slowly started to become obsolete. Players like Mark Messier stepped up to become ‘power forwards’ — those who could score goals and take care of themselves at the same time.

Giant, hulking defensemen who couldn’t keep up resorted

RECREATION EVENTS RECREATION EVENTS

LEAMINGTON KINSMEN RECREATION COMPLEX LEAMINGTON KINSMEN RECREATION COMPLEX

REGISTER Now for the Winter 1 session. View the Activity Guide online for all the details www.leamington.ca/recreation. The new Winter 1 session begins the week of November 23rd. The Complex offers so much diversity for all ages in your Family! Come for a tour at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex! Take part in individual exercise or group classes to reach new Goals. Daily exercise & strength work-outs help to reduce stress, and give you more energy! The Complex has 6 certified Personal Trainers and 2 Nutrition & Wellness Coaches to assist you!

The Fitness Studio, Spin Studio and Weightroom have seen some major updates to make your daily work-outs the best that they can be! The new streamed MYE system on the cardio equipment gives you amazing sound while you’re working out! Tone, Trim and Sculpt your Muscles in the Complex Weightroom!

REGISTER Now for the Winter 1 session. View the Activity Guide online for all the details www.leamington.ca/recreation. The Complex offers so much diversity for all ages in your Family!

NEW - All Fitness and AquaFitness Classes are included in ANNUAL membership including Zumba, Spin Classes, Bosu and the new TRX!! We’ve had amazing response to all of our new fitness programs plus the tried and true! All of the Complex Fitness Instructors are amazing!

FREE Skate – Fri. Nov. 20th (P.A. Day) 1pm - 3 pm Unico Arena sponsored by Essex Power Youth Fund. We’re also celebrating National Sports Jersey Day Nov. 20th so wear your favourite sports Jersey to the Free Skate!

FREE Swim – Sat. Nov. 21st Complex Pool 4:30 - 7:30 pm. The Municipality of Leamington and the Recreation Department would like to say “Thanks” for your patience while the Pool was closed in September during the installation of the new UV Light filtration system. We’re also celebrating National Sports Day in Canada on Nov. 21st so bring the Family to the Free Swim!

Complex Pool - have you considered becoming certified as a Lifeguard? The Complex is always looking for more lifeguards. It’s a well-paid, part-time career for teens or young retirees. Ask us for more details.

Adult Recreational Swimming - see the Rec. Swim Schedule for daily Open & Lane swim opportunities! Popular Lane swims are early morning weekdays from 6:30 - 8:30 am; each weekday at noonhour 12 - 1 pm; NEW Lane Swim on Wednesdays 2 - 3 pm; Masters on Tuesdays 6 - 7 pm and Thursday’s 7- 8 pm.

249 Sherk St., Leamington 519-322-2337

email: complex@leamington.ca www.leamington.ca/recreation

to a ‘clutch and grab’ strategy that officials began clamping down on after pleas from the likes of Mario Lemieux.

What’s most interesting about the changes to the game’s style is how little Canadian and U.S. players have adapted. As mentioned, the league had barely more Canadians than players of all other nationalities combined for the 2014-15 season. That ratio remains consistent as far as combined points go — yup, Canadian players accumulated just a hair more than half of all goals and assists. For that same season however, Canadian penalty minutes exceeded 58 per cent of the combined amount of time that all players spent in the sin bin. To me, this at least suggests that we still prefer a tougher, more physical style of the game.

Some of the stats are a bit more surprising, at least to me. Last season, there were more than twice as many Swedes as Russians. Mats Zuccarello of the New York Rangers was the only Norwegian. France has twice as many.

Still, there’s no denying the impact many a Ruskie has had on the world’s most premier hockey league. Alexander Ovechkin is the most obvious, current and relevant name that comes to mind. Having just surpassed Sergi Federov as the highest-scoring Russian of all time, some more interesting — and amusing — numbers have come to light. I very recently read a Facebook post that mentioned Ovechkin has scored 483 goals (as of Nov. 9) since being drafted in 2004. The 83 players drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs since that time have a combined 489 goals.

In Toronto’s defense (did I just say that?), many of those draftees haven’t played many games — which is typical for a lot of NHL hopefuls picked in the latter rounds of each year’s draft. Comparing them to a no-brainer first overall pick isn’t really fair either, especially when a sizeable chunk of them are blueliners and goalies. Still, it illustrates a point — some teams are better at pickin’ ‘em than others.

Evgeni Malkin — another Russian — was picked second overall that year and has since scored 314 NHL goals. That’s still more than all Calgary Flames draft picks since 2004 (yup, they’re worse decision makers than the Leafs), and here’s the kicker — Malkin didn’t first suit up with his

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NHL bosses (the Pittsburgh Penguins) until the 2006-07 season.

Years ago, I remember reading a story about a Canadian player who made his way up through the junior ranks and attended the NHL draft only to be looked over by every team in every round. He didn’t make much of an effort to hide his bitterness about the situation, stating that things could have been different if his surname ended in “ski” or “ov.” I’m not sure if there has ever been a point where scouts, coaches and managers seek out players based on a preference of nationality and I’ll admit that I have mixed feelings about the diminished percentage of Canadians in the NHL. I grew up watching the game when the league had 21 teams. Now at 30 and with musings of adding another two, the league had to either expand its geographical horizons or water things down until the level of competition became a shell of its former self.

With minor hockey organizations across the country cutting down on the number of levels where players are allowed to throw a body check, Canada’s approach to the game could very well take a dramatic turn in the not-too-distant future. Are we slowly adopting a European version of hockey? We can still beat ‘em, so I don’t see why we’re, um, “rushin’” to join ‘em.

BRYAN JESSOP Jessop’s Journal

Sun Stars win, lose, tie

The Southpoint Sun Stars Midgets hosted the Ingersol Ice on Saturday afternoon for a pair of games at the Wheatley arena. In the first game, the Stars opened the scoring 2 minutes into the second period when Bryanna Rodrigues jumped on a loose puck off a rebound and fired it past the Ice goaltender for a 1-0 lead. Just a minute later the Stars took a 2-0 lead on a great individual effort when Lauren Gradwell skated down the wing, cut to the net, and lifted a backhand over the Ice goalie’s shoulder.

The Ice got on the board before the second period ended and the Stars took a 2-1 lead into the third. Early in the third, Bailey Brown fired the puck on net from the left wing and Emily Hyatt, cutting to the net, would score on the rebound to put the Stars up 3-1. With time winding down in the third, Morgan Brown scored from the slot with Corrine Jackson and Sarah Schincariol assisting and the Stars won game one by a 4-1 score.

In game two the Ice got up early, scoring just 2 minutes into the game as the Stars tried to find their legs. The Ice took a 2-0 lead with 9 minutes remaining in the third and the Stars pressing hard to get on the board. At the 6-minute mark, Morgan Brown got the Stars on the board with Kennedy Hodgson drawing the lone assist. With time winding down and the Stars applying lots of pressure in the offensive zone searching for the tying goal, Bryanna Rodrigues found a loose puck in front of the net and the Stars tied the game at 2. This game ended in a tie and the Stars would take 3 of 4 points from the Ice.

On Sunday the Stars travelled to Belle River to play the Lakeshore Lightning. The Stars battled hard all game, but couldn’t get on the board and the Lightning scored midway through the second period and would go on to win the contest 1-0.

The Stars are off to Kitchener next weekend to compete in the Kitchener Lady Rangers Fallfest tournament as defending champions. Watch the website for details on the Stars next home action. Go Stars Go!

Novice Blue extends winning streak

Last week the Leamington Chrysler Novice Blue team faced the Kingsville Kings on the Highbury Canco rink.

The team came out flying and got on the board early with the help of Andrew Demant in between the pipes who led the team to a 10-0 win over the Kings.

Novice Blue has extended their winning streak to 5 games in a row, which puts them in first place in the OMHA Local League Standings.

This game was a complete team effort with the defence allowing minimal shots and keeping the Kings off the board. Chase Simpson, Carson Koehler, Hayden Epplett and Matteo Peraria were great. The scoring came from many as Mateo Santos, Chase Simpson, Nathan Omar, Dayne Di Milo and Matteo Peraria helped in the 10-0 win over the Kings.

Come out and support your local Novice teams every Saturday morning on the Highbury rink.

Weil’s Atoms

win 7-0

Weil’s Food Processing Atoms played Kingsville White at home on Saturday. Weil’s came out strong as Cody Konrad scored his first goal of the season assisted by Logan Jardim and Luca Rino. The first period also saw goals for both Cian and Josh Tiessen who assisted each other’s goals.

Shortly into the second period, Josh Tiessen scored another goal on a breakaway to give Weil’s a solid 4-0 lead. Logan Jardim tucked in an unassisted goal for Weil’s. Kingsville came back strong with a few scoring opportunities but Weil’s goalie Joseph Gruber, shut them out.

Early in the third, Weil’s Abel Teichroeb scored another unassisted goal and Luca Rino scored one more for the team.

Adriana West and Joel Stockwell continued to play defensively and kept Kingsville out of their zone. Emma Weil, Leah Youssef and Alessia West worked hard to make some good plays but Kingsville shut them out.

This marked Gruber’s second shutout for the season as Weil’s took another win with a final score of 7-0.

Sunbrite Peewees win 4-2

Southpoint Sunbrite Peewees took on the Primo Peewees this past weekend on the Highbury rink. It was a scoreless first period until Primo’s Bram Janzen got past Nick Baeini of Sunbrite to mark the first point for the game.

Both teams battled in the second period. Nick Baeini and Caleb Janzen blocked several shots for their teams and were key players in this game. Sunbrite worked hard and managed to kill off a couple of penalties too. The second period ended scoreless.

Early in the third period, Bram Janzen scored another goal for Primo putting his team up 2-0. Sunbrite came together and turned on the heat. Dawson Collision put them on the board with an assist from Matteo Fortuna and Mitchell Defrancisco. The game was getting aggressive and Primo took their first penalty. Sunbrite capitalized on it and Marcus Stanley scored a breakaway goal to tie up the game. Just ten seconds later, Mitchell Defrancisco scored another one for Sunbrite to finally put them in the lead. There were more scoring chances for both teams but the players were all solid and wouldn’t let anything near the net. Finally, Dawson Collison received a nice pass from Mitchell Defrancisco to score the final goal of the game for Sunbrite. The game resulted in a 4-2 win for Sunbrite.

Peewee LL #11 meets up with Harrow

On Sat. Nov. 14 Centennial Windows Southpoint Peewee LL (#11) travelled to Harrow to take on Harrow Blue #5. Harrow scored first; however, SP 11 responded 1 minute and 12 seconds later on a goal scored by Nathan Pilmer, assisted by Carter Matthews and Noah Simpson. Neither team was able to get the puck across the goal line despite many chances from Alexa Taylor, Curtis Chorba, Zack Dault and Aiden Serravelle and outstanding goaltending from Joseph Gruber.

The third period saw SP 11 take the lead on a goal from Cole Knopp, assisted by Tyler Heinz. SP 11 battled hard to maintain the lead but Harrow scored the final 2 goals and handed the defeat to SP 11 by a score of 3-2.

SP 11 hopes to get back to winning ways next week when they host Kent Cobras 7. Keep playing hard boys and girls!

DONNY & MARIE A HOLIDAY CELEBRATION WITH THEIR CLASSIC HITS Saturday, November 28

CELTIC WOMAN

HOME FOR CHRISTMAS THE SYMPHONY TOUR OPEN TO ALL AGES Thursday, December 10

STYX Saturday, December 12

THE S’AINTS SLEIGHING HUNGER A CHARITY CONCERT BENEFITING LOCAL FOOD BANKS OPEN TO ALL AGES Sunday, December 20

THE TENORS UNDER ONE SKY TOUR Tuesday, December 22

EDDIE MONEY & STARSHIP Saturday, January 16

DANCING WITH THE STARS LIVE!

VANCE JOY FIRE AND THE FLOOD TOUR WITH SPECIAL GUEST REUBEN AND THE DARK OPEN TO ALL AGES Monday, January 25

TRACY MORGAN: PICKING UP THE PIECES Saturday, February 6

BILL ENGVALL Saturday, February 20

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL Friday, February 26

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL Saturday, February 27 4pm & 9pm

DANCE ALL NIGHT TOUR! OPEN TO ALL AGES Friday, January 22 4pm & 9pm NEW

JOHNNY REID Saturday, March 19

Jorden Fehr of the Lions sends the ball over the net toward the Essex side of the court during the WECSSAA 2A senior boys volleyball semifinals at LDSS Wednesday, Nov. 11. Essex swept the bestof-five match with set wins of 25-20, 27-25 and 2522 to advance to the finals.

Stars weekend results

The Community Trophy Peewee Girls played against LaSalle on Saturday. It was a back and forth game but Southpoint had the edge. Through the first and second periods there was no scoring. LaSalle scored 2 quick goals at the start of the third. Southpoint battled on and narrowed the margin with a goal of their own by Alyssa Lamb. The assist went to Jaryn Harris. With time winding down, Southpoint pulled the goalie in favour of the extra attacker. The move paid off. Alexa Taylor scored and Alyssa picked up the assist. The game ended in a tie.

Community Trophy played Amherstburg Blue on Sunday. The matchup was fairly even but Amherstburg came away with a 3-1 win. Amherstburg scored first midway through the second period. Southpoint responded less than a minute later on a goal by Meagan Derksen. Assists went to Mya Brown and Alyssa Lamb. Amherstburg scored late in the second and with 30 seconds left in the game.

The Naples Pizza Southpoint Bantam Stars played the Windsor Wildcats in Essex Kent League play. This was a very close hard fought game for both teams but the Wildcats edged out the Stars by a score of 3-2. Kaylie Goodchild and Hannah Chacko scored for the Stars with assists going to Chelsea Andary and Adrian Gualtieri.

The WFCU Southpoint Intermediate Stars travelled to Tecumseh to play the Tiger Cats on Saturday afternoon. The Lady Stars played great throughout this tight exciting matchup. This game ended deadlocked at 1-1. Jillian Iles scored the lone goal for the Stars with Connie Wiebe notching the assist. Erica Taylor played a strong game in net holding the Tiger Cats to just one goal.

The Leamington Kinsmen Southpoint Intermediate Stars welcomed the Wildcats of Windsor to the Highbury rink on Sunday afternoon. Kim “Snipes” Goyeau lead the offence scoring the hattrick as the Lady Stars scored a big 6-0 win in Essex Kent League play. Also scoring for the Stars were Paige Thompson, Allison Chopchik and Lea Marshall. Netting assists were Kelsey Babkirk (2), Morgan Amicone (2), Joline Driedger, Angelica Ouellette and Allison Chopchik. Sam “The Wall” Hartleib recorded her fifth shutout of this young season as she made several amazing saves throughout this exciting game!!

The Switzer-Carty Southpoint Bantam “B” Stars battled St. Thomas in Lower Lakes League action. The Stars scored 3 unanswered goals in this fast-paced contest en route to a big 3-0 win. Taylor Taouil led the offence scoring twice, with Kira Babkirk netting the other goal. Assists were by Chloe Mastronardi, River Tremblay, Logan Bonner, Darigan Chambers, Paige Stomp and Sarah O’Brien. Claire Beaudoin absolutely shut the door in net in this game as she recorded a big shutout for her team.

Quintet of Cougars to become Lancers

(Continued from page 21) graduates, Church will have the most challenging task in finding a spot as a starter, as Windsor’s current offensive line is one of the team’s strongest components. With many offensive linemen expected to graduate and move on after the 2016 campaign however, Church is likely to see more game time for the following year.

“Everybody has to vie for playing time,” explained CJ’s father Chris Church, who is also the head coach of the Cougars and offensive line coach with the Lancers. “If they work hard during the offseason, they’ll hopefully get the opportunities they’re looking for.”

Chris explained that the Lancers brought aboard three graduates from the Herman Green Griffins football program for last season, the highest number of rookies one high school has produced for Windsor in several years prior.

Josh Vanroie, who played an injury-shortened season this year with the Cougars as middle linebacker, will be stationed at the same position with the Lancers. Matt Gayer — another Cougars graduate — recently completed his third year with the Lancers as a linebacker and was nominated as the team’s only first-year all star.

Like Vanroie, Tannous’s 2015 season with the Cougars was abbreviated by an injury. His duties will change from running back and slot with Cardinal Carter to receiver with the University of Windsor. Church noted that Tannous has a good chance to suit up as a starter, as receivers are positions where the Lancers are looking to bolster their talent base.

Metcalfe — yet another Cougar who witnessed the later portion of the WECSSAA season from the sidelines after sustaining a lower-body injury — played linebacker and tailback in high school. In Windsor, he’ll take on weak-side middle linebacker duties.

Benson, a key player with Cardinal Carter all season, played several positions with the Cougars — most notably as quarterback. He’ll be assigned with the Lancers as a defensive tackle.

Academically, both Church and Tannous will take business courses at University of Windsor while Metcalfe and Vanroie enroll in nursing and Benson in human kinetics.

All five graduating Cougars will be permitted to attend spring training with the Lancers, although they cannot attend the official spring camp. They’ll return to pre-season preparation with the Lancers in mid August with the main training camp. Chris Church expects next year’s Windsor team to be much improved over 2015, with few losses to graduation and the return of injured veteran players and the entire offensive line.

Southland Bantams tie, win

Friday night, Unico arena was the place to be when Southland Bantam took on Harrow Rams Blue team.

Southland scored first as Owen Lindsay stopped a rushing Harrow player. Ryan Cherneski picked up the loose rebound and banged it into the back of the net.

Harrow was rewarded with a late goal with only 10 seconds left in the first.

The second period started with a quick rush by Drake Mastronardi, who broke over the blue line then fed Branden Shagget. Shagget weaved around a couple of Harrow players which left Mason Cabral wide open to wrist a shot past a stunned Harrow goalie.

Harrow took a 3-2 lead in the second.

Harrow scored again in the third, taking a 2-goal lead. Two minutes later Mason Cabral made no mistake, ripping a shot past the sprawled Harrow goalie to cut the lead to 1.

With the clock ticking and both teams making end-to-end rushes, Mason Cabral picked off a Harrow pass then passed over to Ryan Cherneski who broke down the left side of the ice and made a backhand pass over to Alex Jones who rings a shot off the post into the net to tie the game at 4 each.

Harrow kept coming but it was the Southland’s defense and goaltender Nathan Jacobs who stood tall to shut the door and game ended at a 4-4 tie.

Southland made a road trip to Tilbury Sunday night to take on Kent 8. This game was filled with action at both ends.

Kent scored first but, Southland came back 11 seconds later when Mason Cabral made no mistake roofing his first goal. Kent responded quickly, scoring a rebound goal past Jacobs. Southland responded quickly as well when Mason Cabral went in alone to score his second of the night.

With time running out, Mason Cabral won the face off back to Drake Mastronardi who snapped a high hard shot in the top left corner of the net to stun a Kent goalie.

The second period was all Kent as they took a lead.

Southland coaches settled down the troops in between periods and it paid off well as Southland scored 6 times starting with Oz Dillon breaking over the blue line, passing over to Mason Cabral who took a shot off the goalie and Branden Hewer banged in the rebound. Then Santiago Cabara skated out of his own end, passing over to Oz Dillon, who spotted an open Mason Cabral. Cabral again wristed a hard shot past the Kent goalie. Owen Lindsay skated from his own end to the Kent blueline and labeled a high hard shot over the glove of the Kent goalie. Branden Shaggat made a pass back to the blue line to see Drake Mastronardi pass over to Mason Cabral, who again ripped a shot in the 5-hole to get his 4th goal of the night. Oz Dillon was on fire as well, skating hard down the sidewall and passing up to Mason Cabral, who took a low shot on the goalie to see the rebound bounce over to Branden Hewer, who tucked in his second goal of the night.

With Kent getting frustrated, they took a bad penalty. Kent defense fired a shot down the ice but Southland goalie Nathan Jacobs made the stop behind the net and passed up to Branden Hewer, who went over centre ice and passed over to Trevor Dyck, who put the final stamp on the game and scored.

Southland won 9-4 over Kent.

Rhine Danube bowling results

The following are the Rhine Danube bowling league scores for Nov. 2.

Games Over 200: Ozzie Wolf 217, Kevin Kosempel 215, Heinz Kosempel 218-235, Alex Smith 224, Chris Kosempel 200, John Paliwoda 201, Richard Dickau 204, Aaron Dickau 215, Claudio Sabelli 201, Jason Dalimonte 233, Brent Bishop 225-279, Shawn Leclair 201, Jack Valade 205.

Series Over 550: Ozzie Wolf 589, Heinz Kosempel 626, Alex Smith 593, Aaron Dickau 596, Brent Bishop 687, Shawn Leclair 588.

High Handicap Game: Jason Dalimonte 309, Brent Bishop 292, Alex Smith 285.

High Handicap Series: Shawn Leclair 804, Jason Dalimonte 776, Alex Smith 776.

Standings: Dickau Construction 40, Del Fresco 35, Weil’s Food 31, Fittler Foods 28, Taki’s 21, Rhine Danube 13.

County Bridge Results

Leamington Half Century Centre, Nov. 9: 1st Shirley Plant and Jeanne Manners, 2nd Lily Shuster and Patricia Sanford, 3rd Henry Hildebrandt and George Hildebrandt, 4th Al Morrison and Derek Parry. Bridge games are played each Monday at 12:45 p.m. Members and new members welcome.

Kingsville Bridge Club, Nov. 11: 1st John and Dorothy McGregor, 2nd Bob Lee and Henry Hildebrandt, 3rd Sandy and Joyce Gammie, 4th Bill Chaplin and Chris Brennan. Bridge is every Wednesday at the Lions Hall in Kingsville, 7 p.m. Info: 519-738-4939.

The Leamington Flyers pulled off a regulation win against St. Marys in their most recent home game, but the contest didn’t look much like a battle of the West’s first versus worst.

Leamington managed a 2-1 victory despite being held scoreless for just over 50 minutes, as the home team missed out on a lengthy string of scoring chances and encountered a strong performance by net minder Paul Town. The victory gave the red, white and black a seven-point lead over the London Nationals going into Friday.

The first period was a frustrating one for the Flyers, who despite outshooting the Lincolns 15-6 and out-chancing them by an even wider margin, trailed to their guests 1-0 at the first buzzer. Graham Brulotte opened the scoring for St. Marys on what started as a harmless looking play. From the right side of the Leamington net, Brulotte took a point-blank, ice-level shot that found a puck-sized hole to beat Michael Barrett in goal.

Nicolas Mainella appeared to bury the equalizer about 10 minutes later, but the goal was called off on a high stick. Mitch Amante snuck through the defence for a short breakaway a couple minutes later, but was denied by goalkeeper Town on a backhand shot.

The second period offered more of the same, where the puck seemed to cover every square inch of the ice except the space under and behind the Lincolns’ crossbar. A plethora of Flyers shots were deflected, stopped with flailing saves, trickled just wide of the posts or missed the net. Barrett made the biggest save of the stanza, stopping a Brulotte breakaway shot and following up with a stretch save to keep the rebound out of his net. Leamington pelted Town with 26 shots while Barrett contended with six.

The Flyers finally solved Town seconds past the midway point of the third period. After 50 minutes and five seconds of being turned aside, Leamington finally tied the score on a Scott Emerson effort. With most players just starting to approach the St.Marys blueline from centre ice, Emerson took a pass from the point by Mitchell Amante and from the left side of the net, sent a backhand shot past Town on the short side.

The teams looked more evenlymatched in the third, with the Flyers’ shots on goal advantage shrinking to 1210. Leamington’s penalty kill was put to the test consistently through the final 20 minutes, as the Flyers took three minor infractions compared to the Lincolns’ zero. With 24 seconds remaining, Joe Urbanic blasted a shot from the face-off circle to the right of the St. Marys net that struck Town’s shoulder, allowing the puck to arch over the goaltender’s back and into the net.

The Lincolns pulled their goalie from the following centre ice face-off and ap-

FLYERS SQUEAK BY LINCOLNS

BY BRYAN JESSOP

zero for four.

“We weren’t pretty at times, but we’ll take the win,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski. “We were having trouble scoring and sometimes the harder you press, the harder it is to score. We’ve got to give their goalie credit. They’re a

plied heavy offensive pressure for the last 15 seconds, but couldn’t solve Barrett a second time. Leamington outshot their guests 55-23 and were zero for one on the power play while the Lincs went

young team that played hard and skated hard.”

“St. Marys played a good game,” added Emerson, who also chipped in with an assist on the game winner along with Amante. “Their goalie was outstanding, but we know if we keep working, the goals will come. Good teams find ways to win.”

The Nov. 12 game was preceded by an on-ice appearance by the Wheatley Royal Canadian Legion colour guard and bagpiper Mike Hicks in honour of Remembrance Day ceremonies a day earlier. On Saturday, Nov. 7, Flyers players donning their jerseys spent about three hours distributing poppies in support of Leamington’s poppy campaign at four different locations throughout the community.

On Remembrance Day, the Flyers traveled to Sarnia where they handed the Legionnaires a 6-2 loss. Ur-

banic and Matthew Opblinger scored at even strength in the first, followed by a shorthanded tally by Liam Hogan in the second frame. Opblinger struck again on the power play in the third period, followed by Mark Gangnon and Evan Ferguson goals. Ferguson is a minor midget Windsor Junior Spitfires AAA affiliate with the Flyers.

The Flyers outshot their hosts 37-27, with Tyler Wall taking the win in net. Both teams were one for seven on the power play.

Leamington’s busy schedule continued Saturday with a visit to Lambton Shores, where they won 7-2 against the Predators. Flyer goals were scored by Amante and Emerson with two apiece, Cale Phibbs, Colin Moore and Mark Gangnon. The Flyers outshot their hosts 43-21 to grant Wall the win in net and were one for four on the power play. Lambton Shores was two for five.

Rest of the West

The LaSalle Vipers handed a 7-4 loss to the Lambton Shores Predators on Wednesday, Nov. 11 while the St. Thomas Stars won 6-4 in London against the Nationals. The Vipers required double overtime to defeat the Legionnaires in Sarnia on Thursday, a game followed by two Friday the 13th contests — a 5-3 win for St. Marys against Chatham and a 7-2 victory for the Stars in St. Thomas against Strathroy. On Saturday, Sarnia defeated Strathroy 3-1. On Sunday the Nationals beat Chatham in a 7-2 decision while St. Thomas doubled St. Marys 6-3.

UPCOMING HOME GAMES: Thu., Nov. 19 vs. LaSalle, 7:10 p.m. Thu., Dec. 3 vs. London, 7:10 p.m.

UPCOMING AWAY GAMES: Sun., Nov. 22 vs. Chatham, 7 p.m. Tue., Nov. 24 vs. London, 7:10 p.m.

Mark Gangnon of the Flyers prepares to fire a backhand shot at the St. Marys net as Jack Wieringa closes in to attempt knocking the puck off his stick during the second period of a GOJHL game at Highbury Canco Arena Thursday, Nov. 12. Leamington won the game 2-1, breaking a tie with 24 seconds remaining in regulation. (Sun photo)

The Wheatley Royal Canadian Legion Branch 324 Colour Guard and bagpiper Mike Hicks made a Thursday, Nov. 12 Flyers pre-game appearance at Highbury Canco Arena in observance of the previous day as Remembrance Day. (Sun photo)

The Flyers’ Cale Phibbs contends with the Lincolns’ Nick Whitworth while trying to take control of a rebound as goalkeeper Paul Town attempts to smother the puck. (Sun photo)

Local Competitors Medal at Martial Arts Championship

The Erie Shores Invitational Martial Arts Championship was held at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex on Saturday, October 24. Members of Ki Moo Gwan Marital Arts Leamington Branch participated and competitors came away with several medals. From left to right, front row: Joshua Leatham (bronze in Sword Sparring and Sparring); Adrian Perez Guerrero (silver in Sword Sparring, bronze in Sparring, Pattern and Sword Cutting); Juliana Leatham (bronze in Sword Sparring and Sparring). Second row: Dante Pannunzio (gold in Sword Sparring and Sparring, bronze in Sword Cutting, Patterns and Breaking); Darshan Alfaro (silver in Patterns, bronze in Sword Sparring and Sparring). Back row: Kelsey Almasi (bronze in Breaking); Darko Alfaro (gold in Patterns, bronze in Sword Sparring and Sparring); Charlie McCaw (gold in Sword Sparring, bronze in Sword Sparring). (Submitted photo)

schools this season. For UMEI, the 2015 season marked the first time in about a decade that a junior boys volleyball team has been formed. Both played the regular season in the Tier II division, joining seven other teams — all of which represent 2A-sized schools. The Lightning finished with a match record of three wins and five losses, winning nine sets and losing 15 for 15 points — good for sixth place. Lajeunesse had a 1-7 match record, winning five sets and losing 19 for eight points and ninth place.

During their head-to-head match at UMEI on Tuesday, Oct. 20, the Lightning lost the first (Continued on page 28)

volleyball title

in the WECSSAA 1A title match. The Lightning swept their guests in three straight sets in the best-of-five contest with winning scores of 25-23,

“This was by far the best I’ve seen them play,” said Josh Isley, a Grade 11 student at UMEI who coaches the junior boys squad along with Joel Warkentin. “It was the first time I’ve seen them come alive like that. It was great to see. A lot of these guys really picked things up as the season went on.

There was a lot of sweat and tears along the way, but there’s a lot of natural athleticism here.”

“The boys were dominant at the net,” Warkentin added.

“They outhit and out-passed their opponents.”

Over the past weekend, Nov. 13-15, three former Southpoint Capitals players who now play for the Windsor Wildcats Midget ‘A’ girls hockey team helped capture the Bauer World Invite Championship in Detroit. The team went undefeated with a 6-0 record, winning a thrilling 1-0 eleven-player shootout in the semi-finals against Guelph and then captured the championship with a 3-0 victory over London. From left to right are Kiera Jackson, Gioia DiCiocco and Shannon Fehr. (Submitted photo) 25-11 and 25-17.

The Lightning and Royals were WECSSAA’s only junior boys volleyball teams from among the region’s eight 1A

Local Players Help Capture Championship Title

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UMEI wins WECSSAA

(Continued from page 27)

set 25-18 to the Windsor-based Royals before taking the next two 26-24 and 25-15.

The Lightning’s season started on a frustrating note, being swept by Cardinal Carter, Assumption and Riverside before winning two sets against L’Essor in their fourth regular-season match.

“Every time we step onto the court, we’re representing the smaller school,” Warkentin said. “We like to give everyone a chance to get out there. If you can play, you can be a part of it.”

The 1A final at first seemed destined to go the full five sets. Neither team could take more than a three-point lead until after

the Lightning tied the game at 16-16. From there, the Royals scored the next five points for a 21-16 advantage. UMEI recuperated, earning eight of the next 10 points for a 1-0 set lead. After Lajeunesse took two consecutive points to pull within four in the second set, the Lightning sprung to life offensively with 10 in a row to lead the series 2-0.

The Royals’ offense was livelier in the third set, but still couldn’t repel the UMEI attack from the net. The hosts earned the final six points to claim the school’s first WECSSAA championship since the junior girls volleyball team took the same honours 15 years ago in 2000.

This year’s UMEI student population is 53, making it the smallest under the WECSSAA umbrella. Warkentin noted that making pre-season cuts aren’t necessary, although less than

half a dozen current male students are not on either the junior or senior volleyball team. When the school’s population was in the 80s, coaches formed ‘A’ and ‘B’ squads.

The SWOSSAA final took the Lightning to face the winner of the Lambton-Kent Secondary School Athletic Association final between North Lambton Secondary School in Forest and Lambton-Kent Composite School in Dresden. Results were not available by press deadline.

Immediately after the juniors captured WECSSAA 1A gold, the seniors took to the court to face Westview Freedom Academy in the 1A quarterfinals. The Lightning lost the first set 2518, won the second 25-21, lost the third 25-23, won the fourth 25-13 and won a down-to-the-wire tiebreaker 16-14.

2 BEDROOM

SOUTHPOINT SUN

for rent at 970 Point Pelee Drive. $550/month plus utilities. No pets. Available December 1. Call 519-9770478. no11-18

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT in Wheatley. Fridge and stove included. No pets. $650/month plus utilities. First and last month’s rent required. Call after 4:00 p.m. 519-324-6872. no11-tf

PLUMBROOK MANOR APARTMENTS

Secured Building Fridge & Stove Utilities included For viewing please call 519-322-1924 tf

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

• 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

HOUSE FOR RENT - $1000 per month plus utilities. 1st and last month's rent in advance. Phone 519-7912804. no18

1 BEDROOM, 2 BEDROOM & Bachelor apartments, and also house with garage for rent in Leamington & Kingsville, close to all shopping centres. All appliances included; parking & laundry services available. Call 519816-3095. no18

1 & 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS for rent. Call 519-796-5981. no18

137 Erie St. South 2 bedroom units available. 2nd & 3rd floor. 13th month free. Available immediately. Call Bob at 226-936-1676

ATTENTION SENIORSAFFORDABLEand reliable home repairs, improvements and maintenance. Some work may qualify for the Ontario Tax Credit. Call Joe, 519-324-2542. no4-25

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 oc28-de30

CALL KAHL RECYCLINGWe come to you and haul away your junk. Scrap metal and appliances are free. Everything else has a fee. Call Ken 519-322-8305, 519-326-8559. ja14-tf

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

PLUMBING SERVICE

Repairs

Installations

Drain Cleaning

Excellent Rates • 37 Years Experience Ed Higginbottom 519-329-1779 eh48@hotmail.ca

BARN SALE

furniture, household items, construction materials, surplus tools & industrial equipment. Friday & Saturday November 20th & 21st 9:00 am to 4:00 pm 212 Mersea Road 6 Leamington,

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 21 - Come and get the feel of Christmas at the Fair Trade store in uptown Leamington. All the unique gifts are handcrafted just for your Christmas shopping pleasure. The Ten Thousand Villages Store is hosting an OPEN HOUSE all day.

Sample our coffee & goodies & enter a draw for a gift basket. no11-18

KINGSVILLE LEGION BRANCH 188 Friday Night Dinners 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Weekly Specials $12 (Ribs or Perch). Other weekly menu items $10. Next brunch Sunday, December 13, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month 8:00 p.m. 519733-5162 (office) or 519733-9081 (bar). oc29-tf

THE SOLI DEO GLORIA SINGERS invite you to their Fall concert, “Fire & d’Rock” to be performed at UMEI, 614 Mersea Rd. 6, just west of Hwy. 77, north of Leamington on Saturday, November 21 at 7:30 p.m. and at Leamington United Mennonite Church, 78 Oak St. E. on Sunday, November 22 at 3:00 p.m. Tickets cost $12 for adults and $6 for students in advance and $15 and $7 at the door, available at Mennonite Savings and Credit Union, choir members, and UMEI. Call UMEI at 519-326-7448 for more info. no18

SOUTHPOINT SUN

Help Wanted For Snow Removal Season: PART-TIME MACHINE OPERATOR WITH FRONT-END LOADER EXPERIENCE and

GENERAL LABOURER FOR SIDEWALK CLEARING Send resume to: markgcontracting@bellnet.ca or P.O. Box 699 Tilbury, ON N0P 2L0

RESIDENT APARTMENT MANAGER NEEDED

• For an elegant, mid-size apartment building on the north shore of Lake Erie in southern Essex County.

• Ideal opportunity for a semi-retired 50+ couple who take pride in their work and home.

• Salary + 2 bedroom apartment. Send resume to:

Box A, c/o Southpoint Sun 194 Talbot St. E., Unit 5 Leamington, ON N8H 1M2

GREENHOUSE WORKER Day Shift - Weekends

•Candidates will be working in the greenhouse as harvesters and crop workers with other duties as assigned

• Ability to do repetitive tasks, work in a hot environment and attention to detail with 40 plus hours a week including weekends

• Salary: 11.25/hour, working 40 plus hours a week including weekends and holidays

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

SEEKING ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST

Must have college degree and be knowledgeable in: - Auto Cad - Revit

- Microsoft Office

Please forward resume to: MARCOVECCHIO CONSTRUCTION 1893 Union Avenue, PO Box 219 Ruthven, ON N0P 2G0 by fax to: 519-326-1413 or by email: mmarcovecchio@cogeco.net

& greenhouses

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Please Fax resume to 519-733-8059.

Full-time position available immediately • Hourly wage $11.25

• 35 - 40 hours per week, occasional Saturday

• Experience with Health & Safety (WSPS) an asset

Mail resume to: 263 Talbot St.W. Leamington, ON N8H 4H3 OR E-mail resume to: cf@cfgroups.com OR Fax resume to: 519-322-2916

OAK STREET WEST, LEAMINGTON ONTARIO N8H 2B6 PHONE: 519-326-3033 FAX: 519-326-8418

PLUMBERS & HVAC TECHNICIANS WANTED

Seeking Motivated and Experienced Personnel. Residential and Commercial Service Experience Required. Excellent Wages and Benefit Package Available.

Please send resume to: cindy@policellaplumbing.com or Fax to: 519-326-8418

2021 Division Road North Kingsville, Ontario N9Y 2Y9

519-733-2305 www.kingsville.ca kingsvilleworks@kingsville.ca

OFFICE SUPPORT EMPLOYEE

The Town of Kingsville is seeking applications for an Office Support Employee to provide administrative support at the Town of Kingsville Municipal Office.

A complete description of the Office Support Employee duties and Application Form (Career Profile Form) are available online at www.kingsville.ca under the Employment Opportunities heading or may be obtained at the Municipal Office at the address below. To be considered for this position the Career Profile form must be completed.

Interested applicants shall submit a resume, cover letter and completed Career Profile form no later than Wednesday, December 2, 2015 at 4:30 p.m. Completed applications will be accepted by regular mail, personal delivery or email to:

Human Resources Department

The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville 2021 Division Road North Kingsville, ON N9Y 2Y9 E-mail: alonsbery@kingsville.ca

DINIRO FARMS NEEDS full time greenhouse general labourers. $11.25/hour, 45+ hours, 7 days/week. Must be available Saturday and Sunday. Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds on a repetitive basis. Please apply via email to: dinirofarms@wavedirect.net. eow-no18

SOUTHPOINT SUN

NOTICES

NOTICE OF ACCEPTANCE OF APPLICATIONS TO THE COMMUNITIES IN BLOOM COMMITTEE

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville is accepting Applications for community members to serve on the Communities in Bloom Committee. The term of the appointments will conclude at the end of the present term of Council, being November 30, 2018. As a sub-committee of the Parks, Recreation, Arts and Culture Committee (“PRAC”) and in accordance with the ‘Communities in Bloom Canada’ Program, the Committee will work with the Municipality, local businesses and individual homeowners to prepare the Town of Kingsville for the annual Communities in Bloom Judges’ Tour.

Application Forms and Terms of Reference are available on the Town’s website or at the Municipal Office located at 2021 Division Road North, Kingsville. If this opportunity interests you, please submit a completed Application Form to the attention of the Corporate Services Department no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, December 4, 2015.

DATED at Kingsville, Ontario this 13th day of November, 2015.

Jennifer Astrologo, Director of Corporate Services/Clerk

ON N8H 1M2

THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF LEAMINGTON NOTICE OF INTENTION TO REMOVE HOLDING (H) SYMBOL ZBA #124 - PHASE 2 DESTINY ESTATES PLAN OF SUBDIVISION

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington intends to pass a by-law under Section 36(4) of the Planning Act on December 7, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. to remove the Holding Symbol (H) on land described as Part of Lot 9, Broken Front Concession, Being Part 4 RP 12R-24222 now the Municipality of Leamington municipally known as Northside of Robson Road.

THE SUBJECT PROPERTY is designated Residential on Schedule A-6E of the Official Plan and is currently zoned Residential Holding Zone (R3(h)) on Map 61 of Zoning By-law #890-09.

THE PURPOSE of the Holding Symbol is to ensure the orderly development of lands and the provision of adequate municipal services. The Holding Symbol prevents the development of such properties until the Municipality is satisfied that adequate servicing is provided to allow for growth. The applicant (Larry Santos Construction Ltd.) has submitted an application to remove the Holding Symbol (H) currently applied to the residential zoning of the lots in Phase 2 of the Destiny Estates Plan of Subdivision. Destiny Estates is located on the north side of Robson Road, between Malibu Drive and the Erie Shores Golf Course (see inserted key map). The County of Essex granted draft approval of the Plan of Subdivision on August 13, 2012, which created 79 residential lots. The developer entered into a subdivision agreement with the Municipality in December 2014 for the development of Phases 1-3 and has been provided clearance to proceed with Phase 2. Phase 2 consists of a new internal road off of Robson Road and a cul-de-sac off of the aforesaid road, together providing frontage to14 single detached dwelling lots and 12 semi-detached dwelling lots.

ANY PERSON interested in this matter and wishing to make representation either in support of or in opposition to the intended amending by-law should contact the undersigned before the meeting date. If you require any further information, please contact Brian Nagata, Development Planner. DATED AT THE MUNICIPALITY OF LEAMINGTON THIS 18th, DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2015.

BRENDA PERCY, CLERK MUNICIPALITY OF LEAMINGTON 111 ERIE STREET NORTH, LEAMINGTON, ONTARIO N8H 2Z9 TELEPHONE 519-326-5761