Local concern for Lyme bill, awareness
By Bryan Jessop
A regional support group is hoping steps will be taken to help outdoor enthusiasts avoid picking up Lyme Disease as a memento of Canada’s 150th birthday.
With year-long passes available for free entry into Parks Canada facilities in 2017, the Sun County Lyme Awareness Support Group is voicing concern that a spike in tick-borne cases of Lyme may occur across the country. Specifically, the local group has approached Point Pelee National Park requesting that it displays signage and offers tick awareness literature at its front entrance.
The proposal was initially made in May of last year following a national Lyme Conference in Ottawa. Cheryl Abbate, a Lyme Disease patient and member of the Sun County support group, explained that Point Pelee staff expressed reluctance to post signage or offer handouts at its front gates. Abbate noted that park staff explained handouts aren’t usually read until visitors have travelled well beyond the entrance, although she noted that those they approached agreed that Lyme Disease is a serious issue in Canada.
The support group is hoping that the same training that Parks Canada staff is offered on how to protect from, check and remove ticks can be shared with the public. Abbate said Point Pelee staff vowed to include notices about protection against ticks at new trail headers to be installed, but expressed concern that such measures might come too late.
“We feel that when visitors are already in the middle of the park, it could already be too late to protect themselves,” she said. “We would like to see parks being pro-active. The concern is that guests at these parks aren’t being informed, and with free entry available this year, the number of Lyme cases could spread quickly.”
Measures to protect family members and pets against
(Continued on Page 3)
February 22 was a day much like every other day at École St-Michel. Students were performing random acts of kindness all over the school, from exchanging happy smiles to helping a friend in need, holding a door or helping a teacher.
Many children wore the colour pink in support of “Pink Shirt Day” that symbolizes that, as a society, bullying will not be tolerated. The staff at St-Michel chose to focus on acts of kindness and friendship that encourages the positive, caring, Catholic atmosphere that is felt throughout the school by all who attend, work and visit the school.
In Mme Christelle’s Grade 1/2 class, students exchanged a heart necklace with a personalized friendship message for each student.
Mme Gossmann’s Grade 1 students exchanged “kindness coupons” to recognize others for their good choices and acts of friendship all over the school.
“It was heartwarming to see their excitement when they received a coupon. It made them feel appreciated for the things they do on a daily basis,” said Mme Gossmann. “I presented tickets to students and colleagues and it felt good to recognize all that they do for the wellbeing of our school.”
(More photos on Page 6)
Corbin Azzopardi and Quinlan Bombardier holding the Promise Heart.
Funding for local teen nears completion
By Bryan Jessop
Ongoing support from throughout the community is helping Leamington teen Ryan Toomer beat the odds.
After being diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer known as Ewing Sarcoma in the spring of last year, Toomer had to undergo surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital to amputate his right leg from between the knee and ankle in November. Donations and fundraisers from throughout Leamington and surrounding areas began pouring in to help fund the cost of a new prosthetic leg and associated treatment — only a portion of which is covered by OHIP.
Most recently, a $500 donation from the Leamington Kinsmen Club was made to help the Toomer family fund the objective to help Ryan walk again. The money was raised through Kinsmen Kanteen sales at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, which also help support the Southpoint Minor Hockey Association, Cystic Fibrosis research and support, the Leamington Minor Baseball Association and Leamington Air Cadets. Kinsmen president Harry Garbarino explained that the organization received a letter from the Toomers and about two weeks later, made arrangements for the donation.
On Friday, Feb. 3, a pasta dinner and auction were hosted by Colasanti’s Tropical Garden — also in support of fundraiser to help Ryan offset the costs of acquiring a custom-fitted prosthetic leg, which comes at a cost of roughly $10,000 alone. The event was attended by 900 guests and raised $25,000.
“We were all surprised,” Ryan said of the public’s reaction to the fundraiser. “We were expecting maybe a couple hundred people, so I was blown away. I didn’t expect anything like it. I didn’t even know a lot of the people there.”
Toomer has also been supported through a Go Fund Me page that raised about $10,000 and school fundraisers from both his former elementary and secondary schools — Ecole St. Michel and L’Essor.
“I’ve been overwhelmed really by how much is going on,” Ryan explained.
In November, physicians explained to Toomer that he’d be able to use his new prosthetic leg after about six months of adjustments to ensure a proper fit. In the meantime, he has been using a temporary artificial limb during physiotherapy sessions. Not surprisingly, Toomer is eager to begin using the new, permanent prosthetic leg.
“It seems like it’s been quite a while,” he said, noting that it’ll be another three months at the most before he can start using the artificial limb. “I’ve just been hopping around everywhere.”
Thus far, fundraisers have added up to in excess of $35,000 in support of expenses involved with treatment and prosthetics.
Site plan alterations
At their Feb. 27 meeting, Municipal Council granted an amendment to the site plan for 605 County Road 18. A second access — a driveway built under a private agreement with the abutting landowner — was constructed on vacant land, not as shown on the approved plans. County administration has not approved this driveway for commercial vehicles, but the Leamington planning department recommended approving the amendment since the original access is sufficient to handle commercial vehicles. Members of Municipal Council agreed.
Baby Announcements
Tell everyone about the birth of your baby in the Southpoint Sun!
Leamington Kinsmen president Harry Garbarino presents a cheque of $500 on behalf of his club to Leamington resident Ryan Toomer and his sister Brittany Toomer as part of an ongoing effort to help the family offset the costs of a prosthetic limb. In November, Toomer’s leg was removed after he was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a form of cancer similar to the strain that affected Terry Fox.
(SUN Photo)
Local concern for Lyme bill, awareness
(Continued from Front)
Lyme-infected ticks can be found at http://www.livescience.com/46160-how-to-avoid-tickbites.html. According to Health Canada, an estimated 80 per cent of Canadians in the eastern half of the country will live in regions that are home to infected ticks.
The Sun County Lyme Awareness Support Group currently has 200 members who are patients of the disease and meets at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens on the last Wednesday of each month, minus summer months. The group can be contacted through its Facebook page or by e-mail at suncountylymeasg@gmail.com.
In January of last year, one of its members died after being diagnosed with Lyme Disease in California. Initially, the support group member was misdiagnosed in Ontario with ALS, which reveals symptoms similar to Lyme. Abbate noted that the physician refused to look at or consider results presented from the testing in California, widely believed to be more accurate and effective than Canada’s two-tier method.
“It was very heart wrenching,” said Abbate, who noted that park visitors informed on risks associated with ticks could arrive with repellant for the insects as well as other steps effective in preventing bites. “It’s a hard pill to swallow, knowing at any time it could happen to us.”
The Sun County group is also battling the current draft of C-442, better known as the Lyme Bill. The bill was introduced in 2014 to create a federal framework to approach Lyme Disease in Canada, but in its present form, would only maintain the same approach already being used across the country. Abbate explained that the draft was presented by infectious disease physicians whose opinions are heavily influenced by Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) guidelines — deemed outdated in the United States in February of last year.
The IDFA two-tier system used in Canada starts with an ELISA test that seeks out specific antibiotics the body produces to combat Lyme-based infections. Abate noted that if the test is administered before the four to six weeks it normally takes the body to start producing such antibiotics, results will likely be negative regardless of whether or not the patient has contracted Lyme. If ELISA testing is used too late, she continued, the bacteria Borrelia may have already shut down the immune system and its ability to produce antibiotics that the test seeks to detect Lyme’s presence. If ELISA test results come back positive, the second step — called a Western Blot — tests for antigens produced by only one strain of Lyme. During last year’s conference in Ottawa, Czech Republic-based physician Natalia Rudenko explained that there are roughly 900 strains of the disease. The test administered in California can detect the 18 strains most commonly found in North America.
“Some doctors here in Canada say that with the Californian test, you’re ‘buying’ a positive result — which is completely untrue,” said Abbate, who was diagnosed with Lyme in August of 2011 after being bit by an infected tick in March of 2007.
In response to C-442 in its current form, members of the local group are encouraging all Canadians to sign the online petition found at https://www.change.org/p/minister-philpottticking-lyme-bomb-in-canada-fix-canada-s-lyme-action-plan-now. The petition is being directed toward Health Minister Jane Philpott and started with a goal of attaining 35,000 supporters prior to March 1. As of that date, a total of 34,600 petitions had been gathered.
the
or
draft of C-442
for
The target number was surpassed the next day. Abbate highlighted the fact that comments from supporters could be considered by Public Health officials before the draft passes on a yet-to-be determined voting date. She also encourages residents to continue signing the petition beyond March 1.
On March 6, Canadian MPs attended round table discussions to study the draft and the public reaction it has generated. Previously, members of the Sun County support group met with Essex MP Tracey Ramsey to share concerns that the elected official in turn brought to the March 6 meeting in Ottawa.
On Saturday, June 3 of this year, Lyme patients from across Canada will march on each of the provincial capitals as well as in Ottawa in support of better testing and support. Members of the Sun County organization will attend either the gathering in Toronto or Ottawa. Efforts to reach Parks Canada representatives regarding signage and literature at Point Pelee were not replied to by press deadline.
2017
Libro Credit Union STUDENT AWARDS
Libro is investing $62,000 to support local students in southwestern Ontario!
Libro’s Student Award Program supports youth who demonstrate outstanding commitment to their community while balancing academic success. At Libro, we know by supporting these young leaders, everyone wins.
Libro will grant 31 $2,000 scholarships, one for each of our 31 branches, to youth aged 17 to 25.
Application deadline: April 12. Applicants are notified by May 30.
To learn more and apply visit a Libro branch or libro.ca/studentawards.
Essex MP Tracey Ramsey (far left) met with Sun County Lyme Awareness Support Group members Heather Dyck (front), Virginia Dyck, Shelby Wilkins and Cheryl Abbate prior to an MP roundtable meeting on C-442 in Ottawa on March 6. Ramsey heard the concerns of the group pertaining to
present
— the Lyme Bill — which many Canadians feel will not improve testing
treatment
the disease. (Submitted photo)
In the summer of ’79
In 1979 when I was still playing some competitive baseball, some of my friends were turning to playing slo-pitch softball.
I couldn’t wrap my head around that whole underhand pitching thing.
That first attempt still resonates with me some 38 years later.
My only previous experience with organized softball was at Mill Street School, where Mrs. Greenwood coached our Grade 8 Boys ‘B’ team to a tournament victory. I do believe that was fast-pitch softball though. I remember Rick Neufeld being tabbed as the pitcher because he was the only one who could throw the windmill style.
Over the years the game evolved, the beer got colder and many, if not all of those guys, hung up their mitts.
As recently as last summer, I was still toiling on the local diamonds playing the game I came to love.
When I spent the summer of 1979 working for the Leamington Board of Works, I was in the middle of my second year of Juvenile travel baseball, but was intrigued when the board of works team invited me to come and play ‘lob ball’ with them.
In the early ’80s, when I first got serious about slo-pitch, I managed to find the timing needed for hitting and things went really well. I was part of a team of buddies who all excelled at the game and we quickly became one of the teams to beat in this area.
Bonehead’s Raiders were formed with our leader Troy Wiper taking the reins that first year. The name morphed into the Bonehead Raiders and we played together for about seven or eight years.
With the sounds of Supertramp blaring from someone’s car stereo, I joined my cousin Dale Ribble, Tony DeSantis and several other guys from the department on the Queen of Peace diamond to display my baseball prowess.
As a recent high-school grad, I was younger than the rest of them, other than Gary Ferguson, who was a couple years younger than I was. We were on the parks and cemetery crew, spending most of our days cutting grass, digging graves and trimming headstones.
The friendships formed with guys from those days were life-long friendships. To this day, I can run into any one of them and stop and have a conversation that usually includes laughing at some of the things we did.
Of course, most of us now have grandchildren, so we take the time to show them off to each other too.
I arrived at the ball diamond thinking I’d show them how it was done.
Here were some guys dressed in jeans, others in shorts and me in my baseball pants, looking as out of place as Donald Trump at a Taco Bell.
My last kick at the can with hardball was a couple of years ago in the Kingsville Classics league. We had a lot of fun that summer but I was unable to commit to playing again, so I’ll likely just stick to the slo-pitch thing again this year.
Defensively, I held my own, but struggled with trying to hit that softball that arced so high I could barely get the bat on it.
Used to swinging at 80 mph fastballs, my timing wasn’t there for the game of slo-pitch. At least not yet.
It would be three or four more years before I would catch the slo-pitch bug for good and give up my hardball days.
And with every warm day, the urge to get out and throw the ball around gets stronger. I’m not sure if that’s something that will ever go away.
I do know that the body will eventually just not be able to do it anymore. I’ll patiently wait for that day to arrive, knowing that every season I can eke out of it will be a bonus.
Wheatley Branch 324 Legion news
By Jan Watson
Volunteers needed for Cancer Society’s Daffodil Month campaign
With 6 wins Rosemary Duquette, Tracey Bruner and Doug Seili led the 15 players who shot Fun Darts on February 24 at Wheatley Legion. Mary Robinson, Arnold Seili and Jim McClellan followed with 5 wins. Tied with 3 wins were Debbie Seili and Gord Crook – Bonnie Evoy and Tim Moore. Also tied with 2 wins were Debbie Ouellette and Richard Howe – Kim Bruner, Larry Evoy and Garry Hope. Mary and Bonnie were the only ladies doubling out.
Join the Fun Darts players on Friday evenings. Play starts at 7:30 p.m.
When loved ones are diagnosed with or die of cancer, friends and family often want to do something to help or honour them. This April, the Canadian Cancer Society wants the people of Windsor-Essex to know there is something you can do.
This April, by volunteering just a few hours of their time selling daffodil pins or canvassing in their neighbourhood in support of the Daffodil Month campaign, local residents can help save lives and support people who are living with cancer.
Larry Foster had a lucky day at the Meat Draws on February 25 that were run by Lori Gouin. Larry won meat twice and the 50/50 draw. Other winners were Shannon Moore, Joanne Steckley, Heather Dresser, Steve Marshall, Wes Brouwer, Ken Dawson, June Epplett, Marsha Howe and Bill Derbyshire.
Money raised during Daffodil Month helps local patients and their families living with more than 100 different types of cancer. With these donations, the Canadian Cancer Society funds life-saving research and support services, as well as other important work, so that fewer Canadians are affected by cancer.
Volunteers are essential to the success of the Daffodil Month campaign. We need you! If you can spare a few hours during this critical fundraising time, please register today at myccsschedule.ca or call our office at 519254-5116.
– Theresa Blondin
Meat Draws are held every Saturday. Draws are from 3:00 p.m. until 5 p.m.
In June the Hometown Heroes Committee will be reinstalling the existing banners around Wheatley as well as installing new ones. If you would like to sponsor a banner to commemorate any veteran, past or present, contact Bill Siddall at 519-825-3931 or at mrwfd@cogeco.ca for information and application forms. Forms are also available at the Branch. There are a limited number of poles available for use so your applications will be accepted on a first-come first-serve basis. The deadline for submissions is May 1.
The annual Turk ’n Beaup St. Paddy’s Day celebration will take place on March 18 at the Branch. There will be lots of fun, prizes, food and entertainment.
Coming up … Good Friday April 14 – the Branch’s
first 2017 Fish Fry… Saturday April 15 – The Pickle Mixed Dart Tournament in memory of Rick Pickle – a sign-up sheet is on the sports bulletin board.
Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, Canadian Cancer Society, Windsor-Essex
MARK RIBBLE
Rib’s Ramblings
Cardinal Carter to host musical
By Bryan Jessop
In preparation for an opportunity to entertain the community with a display of singing, dancing and theatrics, Cardinal Carter Catholic Secondary School already has a ‘foot’ in the door.
On each evening from May 10 to May 13 starting at 7 p.m., the local high school will present its rendition of Footloose in its own auditorium. The performance will feature full singing and dancing routines and will serve as the first theatrical offering by the school’s students to the public since Little Shop of Horrors in 2012.
Auditions opened to all Grades from 9 to 12 prior to Christmas, when director Lindsay Longpre was greeted by a group of about 30 students. A cast of 20 and 30 additional volunteers responsible for set design, props, costumes, sound, lighting, make-up and other duties began rehearsals shortly after the New Year’s arrival. Staff who’ve stepped up to support Longpre, her ensemble and crew include Maggy Sonoski with choreography, professional singer Melissa Ciotoli as music director, Geralyn O’Brien as stage manager, Constance Budd with props and scenery, Laura Rubino with ticket sales, Pam Chapman with marketing and Ted Wigfield and Art Brunet with set construction. Also among those involved are members of the Cougars’ football team and dance class.
Members of the cast have been rehearsing each Monday and Thursday after school hours and in some cases, during lunch hours. Performers represent each high school grade and vary in experience from seasoned actors to others making their first appearances on stage.
“They’re very fast learners and they’re very enthusiastic,” explained Longpre, who herself has performed the roles of Mrs. Potts in Beauty and the Beast and in Sister Act as Windsor Light Music Theatre productions last year. “They’re all very excited about performing. They’ve been working together very well as an ensemble and they’re discovering who they are in the process.”
“This is quite the undertaking, but we’re fortunate enough to have a very talented group of students,” added Ciotoli.
General admission tickets will be sold at $15 each or $10 per student or child. Advanced tickets are available from members of the cast and crew as well as by calling Cardinal Carter at 519-322-2804. Provided tickets are still available, they will also be sold at the doors prior to each performance.
Lead roles for the newest Cardinal Carter production will be taken on by Grade 11 student Mia DiCiocco as Ariel and Liam Bergeron as Ren McCormack.
“To me, it’s a lucky thing to be chosen for a lead role,” DiCiocco explained. “It’s both shocking and exciting.”
DiCiocco has performed in plays since she was a child and during her elementary school years, played the role of Cogsworth the Clock in a Queen of Peace production of Beauty and the Beast. Although she has yet to choose a post secondary education field of choice, she is considering music, drama and teaching.
Bergeron is also equipped with considerable experience. The Grade 12 student has taken on roles in Best Christmas Pageant Ever with Theatre Alive as well as Beyond The Moon.
“I’m in my Grade 12 year, so this is my last chance to do something like this,” he said of Cardinal Carter’s rendition of Footloose. “I’m happy to be a part of it. The entire group is really excited.”
Liam Bergeron and other cast members take guidance from choreographer Maggy Sonoski (far right) during a rehearsal for Cardinal Carter’s upcoming performance of Footloose. Tickets can be purchased by calling the school at 519-322-2804.
Cast members of Cardinal Carter’s production of Footloose take guidance from choreographer Maggy Sonoski (far left) during a rehearsal for Cardinal Carter’s upcoming performance of Footloose.
École St-Michel celebrates kindness and friendship
des élèves (Student Quotes):
• “Être un bon ami c’est partager la rondelle dans une joute de hockey à quelqu’un qui ne le reçoit pas souvent”.
- AJ 1e année A
• “Je suis gentil à ma petite sœur Isabella parce qu’elle partage ses bonbons avec moi.” - Sebastian 1e année A
• “Je suis un bon ami quand je peux aider les amis avec un travail difficile.” - Kayden 1e année A
• “Je rempli le seau à Mme Gossmann quand je fais de mon mieux et je fais des bon choix à l’école.”
- Alicia 1e année A
• “Je partage ma nourriture avec quelqu’un en besoins.”
-Andrew 1e/2e année
• “Je dis je m’excuse quand j’ai fais un mauvais choix.”
- Sydnee 1e/2e année
• “J’invite un ami pour jouer au hockey avec moi.”
- Ellis 1e/2e année
• “Je donne une caresse quand un ami est triste.”
- Eliana 1e/2e année
ABOVE: Mme Christelle’s grade 1/2 class at École St-Michel “show the love” on Feb. 22 when the staff and students focused on acts of kindness and friendship. Students in the photo are Isabella Vidal, Mikayla Saad, Isaiah Georges, Nicolas Magri, Lola Dean, Andrew DeGoey, Ruby Mejia, Gabriell Kaantey, Ellis Flemming, Isabella Fragoso, Eliana Ambrose, Luna Roun, Bima Napitupulu, Addyson Gontarde, Jackson Patterson, Skylar Smith, Sydnee Baeini, Adrian Perez, Tristyn Cordeiro, Grace Bedard.
AT LEFT: Laila Al-Ubeidi and Alexandra Gebriel.
(CONTINUED FROM FRONT)
KENNY G Friday, April 7
NETFLIX PRESENTS: SANDY WEXLER’S HERE COMES THE FUNNY TOUR LIVE PERFORMANCES BY: ADAM SANDLER DAVID SPADE NICK SWARDSON ROB SCHNEIDER Friday, April 14
JACKSON BROWNE AND SARA & SEAN WATKINS (PRETTY MUCH) ACOUSTIC Thursday, April 20
RASCAL FLATTS RHYTHM & ROOTS TOUR Friday, April 21
BILL ENGVALL Friday, May 5
DANCE TO THE MOVIES STARRING DANCING WITH THE STARS PROS, SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE AND AMERICAN IDOL FINALISTS! OPEN TO ALL AGES Friday, May 12
AUSTRALIA'S THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER Friday, May 26
ZZ TOP Friday, June 2
JOURNEY Thursday, June 22
TONY ORLANDO
JETHRO TULL BY IAN
Sunday, August
AT RIGHT: Savannah McLean sewing her quilt block. (Photos submitted)
Through Arts
Open House
Last week Gore Hill Public School hosted an Open House for new JK/SK registrants. Children were provided a treasure map and worked their way through a variety of centres hosted by parents, staff and community partners. Gus the Gator, the school mascot, also made a special visit. At
of
From left to right, the Coppola family – Caden, mom Bonnie, future Gator Andrew and dad Tony – stopped by the “Library Lagoon” during JK/SK Open House.
Gore Hill Public School student volunteer Sydney Enns (left) discusses choices available at “Gator Games” with future Gator Jorgina D’Americo.
“Little Gator” t-shirt and a treat bag.
Jakob fulfills dream
Abby Jakob envisioned her ideal career when she was only 10 years old, and has spent the last 18 years focusing on that goal.
It was Leamington optometrist Dr. Brian Adamson that inspired her to follow in his first steps. Abby said when she visited Dr. Adamson annually as a youngster, it was obvious how much he loved his career.
In fact, he spoke to her of it being the ideal career, and Abby took him at his word.
After graduating from Kingsville District High School, the multi-talented athlete took her basketball skills on the road — one that included a basketball scholarship at Dalhousie University in Halifax, NS.
Success was something that never eluded the all-around student, earning a degree in kinesiology as the valedictorian of her class.
But she wasn’t done. Abby was determined to follow her dream — a dream that led to the Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago, IL. Here, she was on the road again, one that included clinical rotations in Chicago, North Carolina, Detroit and Connecticut.
For the small town girl, it was an eye-opening experience treating the poorest of the poor in impoverished areas during some of these rotations.
It was during her final year in Chicago she once again distinguished herself, being named Colleague of the Year, an honor voted on by her graduating class of 163 and graduating Summa Cum Laude, with the highest of honor in 2014.
But what brings such a successful eye doctor back to small town life from the big city?
“That’s easy,” said Dr. Jakob, “my family.”
She said she has always considered her family members – mom Jill, dad Walter, brother Dr. Riley Jakob and her sister-in-law Dr. Alex Gow – her best friends and said eight years away made her appreciate them even more. It also made her realize how special growing up in the small community of Kingsville/Leamington was to her.
“I loved growing up on the lake,” she said, so much so, she recently purchased her childhood home from her parents.
Since returning to the area two years ago, Abby has kept busy honing her skills locally, working part-time for Dr. Bradley Sanger and for Hakim Optical.
Her dream wasn’t quite complete though.
But this Friday that dream will be realized with the opening of ‘Eyes’, her new practice in Kingsville. It’s been months in the works, following extensive renovations to the former Kingsville Fire Hall on Main Street, and Abby is nervous but excited for the opening.
In fact she admits to being a little overwhelmed the past six months, which included the purchase of her parents’ home, the purchase of the old fire hall and her engagement to Patrick Michaud.
Without her fiancé and his father, Abby said the renovations would never have gotten done so quickly.
And when the doors open, Abby said she is ready — ready to take care of local ‘eyes’ of all ages. In fact, Abby said ideally babies as young as six months should have their eyes examined; early detection of possible eye diseases could definitely prevent loss of sight. But if not then, Abby said all children should have a thorough exam before entering school. “It should be mandatory,” she said, “to help give kids the best shot at having a successful future.”
In addition to a thorough eye exam, Abby said she will also offer corneal refraction therapy for children which she compares to braces for the eyes. This treatment is for nearsightedness and astigmatism. The patient would wear hard contact lenses at night which gently mold the cornea while the patient sleeps. She said they would then take them out in the morning and have the ability to see for the day.
This therapy, she said, prevents the progression of nearsightedness. Eventually, she said, as the patients grow, they would have the option of LASIK surgery.
She will also offer contact lenses, prescription sports’ glasses, safety glasses, prescription and non-prescription brand name sunglasses.
The response has been tremendous, she said. That is the beauty of returning home to open a practice in a small town — the familiarity and support, she added.
Abby is confident in her skill and is anxious to open her doors. Her office will be open all day, with eye appointments being scheduled half days, including morning, afternoon and evening hours. She will continue to work parttime for Dr. Sanger and Hakim Optical until her practice warrants full-time hours locally.
While Abby is relatively young to take on such a tremendous challenge, she said she realized at a young age that she wanted to open her own practice.
“If you’re not working hard for what you want in life,” she said, “you will just be working to make someone else’s dream come true.”
Council discusses drainage
To start the Municipal Council meeting Monday evening, Feb. 27, two public meetings about agricultural drains were held followed by the consideration of two unrelated staff reports about drains.
The first public meeting was to consider an engineer’s report about construction of a new access culvert over the Hooker Drain on Mersea Road 8. It estimates what the culvert should cost and how the expenses are to be shared. The second considered the preliminary engineer’s report about the proposed Driedger Drain along Mersea Road 6, and its recommendation of a final option for its construction.
Both staff reports had to do with the change of use of former agricultural land and the consequent change in drainage. The first staff report informed Council that the property of the New Reinland Church drains into the John Leslie Drain and not into the Wilkinson Shilson Drain, and that a buy-in charge be assessed against the church property owner. The second was a change from vacant land to a trucking yard and its runoff handled by the Robert Anderson Drain.
Dr. Abby Jakob
OBITUARY
John W. Parsons
John W. “Jack” Parsons, 89 years, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 4, 2017 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital.
Deeply missed by his wife of 64 years, Georgia (Jo), his children
Doug (Aileen) and Chris (Christine), Marnie, his much loved granddaughters
Sarah and Rachel, and his canine buddy Dudley. Predeceased by his parents
George and Mabel Parsons, brothers Glen (late Peggy) and George. Survived by his sister-in-law Elva Parsons, his brother-in-law Alan Henderson and wife Joan, and his nieces and nephews.
For more than 35 years, Jack worked at the H.J. Heinz Co. as a Personnel Manager. He was a graduate of McMaster University and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, with an MBA. For years, Jack and Jo loved to travel far and wide, especially in their motor home, often with their dear friends Bill and Maxenne Otton. Jack was all about his beloved hometown of Leamington and loved to visit Point Pelee. His volunteer work was extensive: he served on the Leamington Library Board; was a member of the Leamington Lions Club; and was active with the Red Cross and Leamington District Memorial Hospital. Jack was a longtime member of Erie Shores Golf & Country Club, and an avid and faithful fan of both the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Blue Jays.
The family is grateful for the support of Cathy Forrest from Amy’s Helping Hands and longtime family friend Rita Hutchinson for help over the last months and years. Thank you to the nursing staff at LDMH for their kindness and compassion in his final days.
Visiting is at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Wednesday from 2-4 p.m. and 7-8 p.m.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Jack’s life will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, March 9, 2017 at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jack’s memory may be made to the Canadian Red Cross or the LDMH Foundation.
Family and friends are invited to share their words of comfort and remembrance at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Nana-Lou Monaghan
Nana-Lou “Nan” Monaghan (Armstrong) passed away on Friday, March 3, 2017 at the age of 75. Beloved wife of Jack.
Loving mother of Craig Sherman, Lou-Ann (Richard) Turner, Lynne (Wayne) Johns, Leanne (Jean-Marc) Paquette.
Dear grandmother of Jennifer (Derek), Lindsey (Matthew), Chantelle (Jeremy), Ryanne (Richard), Rae-Anne (Ryan), Nathan (Ashley), Jacqueline (Clint), and eight great-grandchildren and five on the way. Dear sister of Connie (Norman) Flaxman and the late Valerie. Dear sister-in-law of Richard Monaghan (Cathy). Also remembered by many nieces and nephews.
Nan worked for many years alongside her husband Jack in their family business, Hallmark Memorial Co. Visitation was at Gerald A. Smith Funeral Home, 197 King St. W., Harrow, on Sunday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.
A service to celebrate Nan’s life was held on Monday, March 6, 2017 at the funeral home at 11:00 a.m. Entombment at Heavenly Rest Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to Windsor Regional Cancer Centre or Windsor Essex Humane Society.
You may send your online condolences to www.geraldasmith.ca
County Bridge Results
Leamington Half Century Centre, Feb. 27: North/South1st Marie Ellwood and Roger Cote, 2nd Shirley Plant and Jeanne Manners, 3rd Vi Major and Pauline Mikolash. East/ West - 1st Henry Hildebrandt and George Hildebrandt, 2nd Agnes Fraser and Derek Parry, 3rd Rosemary Murphy and Becky Rundle. Bridge games are played each Monday at 12:45 p.m. Members and new members welcome.
Kingsville Bridge Club, Mar. 1: North/South - 1st Al Morrison and Pauline
Filomena Cervini
Filomena Cervini (Fratarcangeli), 80 years, passed away on Monday, March 6, 2017 at Erie Shores Hospice.
Beloved wife of the late Giovanni. Dear mother of Frank (Anne), Nick, Silvio, and Aldo (Stacey). Loving grandmother of Jessica and Taylor, Mina, Chloe, Chiara, and Dante. Dear sister of the late Domenico Fratarcangeli (late Emma), the late Mario Fratarcangeli (Candelora), the late Angelo Fratarcangeli, the late Gaetano Fratarcangeli (Ada), Vincenzo Fratarcangeli (Lina), Arcangelo Fratarcangeli (Vilma) and Giulio Fratarcangeli (Maria). Dear sister-in-law of the late Antonio Cervini (late Giuseppa), Vincenza Ferrante (Americo), Sue Fratarcangeli and Stella Fratarcangeli. Filomena will be missed by many nieces and nephews. Filomena worked many years at Omstead Foods and All Temp Foods.
The Cervini family wishes to give special thanks to the doctors and nurses at Leamington Hospital and Erie Shores Hospice.
Visiting is at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-3262631) on Thursday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., and at St. Michael’s Church, 21 Elliott Street, Leamington on Friday, March 10, 2017 from 9 a.m. until time of the Mass of the Resurrection at 10 a.m. Entombment Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made by cheque to Erie Shores Hospice.
Friends may share memories or make donations at www.reidfuneralhome.ca
Mikolash, 2nd Roger Cote and Marie Ellwood, 3rd Sandy and Joyce Gammie. East/West - 1st Henry Hildebrandt and George Hildebrandt, 2nd Dave Derbyshire and Derek Parry, 3rd Bill Chaplin and Chris Brennan. Bridge is every Wednesday at the Lions Hall in Kingsville, 7 p.m.
Phragmites the most devastating invasive species in the region
Toxins kill surrounding plants and have negative impact on wildlife
It’s National Invasive Species Awareness Week, which aims at bringing attention to invasive species and their environmental impact.
“Phragmites is probably one of the most devastating invasive species that our region is presently facing,” said Kevin Money, ERCA’s Director of Conservation Area. “It reduces biodiversity, can dry up a wetland and can affect agriculture and road safety.”
This tall growing reed has become dominant in this re-
gions’s wetlands, along ditches and in other wet areas. Because it releases toxins from its roots, it kills surrounding plants, creating a monoculture that has a negative impact on wildlife.
14 Mill Street East, Leamington, Ontario, N8H 1R7 519-322-2251
BANK THEATRE NOTES
10 ERIE STREET SOUTH P.O. BOX 434 LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3W5 519-326-8805
DALE'S FRIDAY COFFEE HOUSE
March 31
Doors open @ 6:30 pm
Music starts @ 7:00 pm
Come and enjoy an evening of acoustic music and community This is a free-will event with proceeds being shared with local charities and the Bank Theatre Renovation fund
LEND ME A TENOR
April 6,7,8 @ 7:30 pm
April 9 @ 2:00 pm
KEN LUDWIG’S farcical comedy is brought to the Bank Theatre Stage by the Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre under the direction of Renata Solski This vibrant and enthusiastic production is a farcical comedy, layered with multiple, hilarious mishaps and one comedic disaster after another Tickets are $20 (General Admission) ONLINE TICKETS are available now at: www brownpaper tickets com/event/2736763 Tickets will be available after March 3rd at Wharram’s Jeweller y and Counter Effects in Leamington and also at the door on the night of the per formances You can call our ticket hotline at: 519-326-8805
UPCOMING EVENTS
Dale's Friday Coffee House, April 28
Karen Morand & Gina Horswood in Concer t, April 22 Red Dir t Skinners in Concer t, May 5
In 2016, ERCA undertook a pilot project to restore a 117acre managed wetland cell through phragmites removal at Hillman Marsh Conservation Area. This multi-phase project included GPS mapping of phragmites, specialized herbicide application, hand-removal and monitoring activities. As well, an educational video was created, and a public workshop hosted in partnership with the Windsor-Essex County Environment Committee Green Speaker series.
“One of the problems with phragmites is that it is extremely difficult to control, and herbicides cannot be applied near water,” Money said.
The Salvation Army Leamington CC YOUTH DROP-IN CENTRE open ever y Tuesdsay, 6:00 - 8:00 p m at the church 88 Setterington St The centre provides a safe super vised location and use of our computer lab, movies, videogames or table tennis etc For more info contact us at 519-326-4901
Saturday, March 11 at 1:00 p m at Church of the Epiphany, 96 Main St W , Kingsville
LEAMINGTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETS
Wednesday, March 15, 7:30 p m , at Leamington United Church, 9 John St Speaker: Rick Bradt, AMA Plastics Topic: What's New in Horticulture All are welcome for an evening of horticultural fellowship For more info call Peter Scorrar 519-326-8529
DESSERT, CARDS & BOARD GAMES PARTY - Friday, March 17 at 1:30 p m , St John s Anglican Church, 60 Erie St N Leamington Bring your own favourite board game Bridge and euchre cards provided Freewill donation Funds raised will go toward bathroom renovations at the church
OVERCOMING LONELINESS & SOCIAL ISOLATION
WORKSHOP - Monday, March 20 at 1:00 p m Leamington Half Centur y Centre, 160 Talbot St E All welcome
PRESENTATION OF BIRD WATCHING ADVENTURES, "Birds of Kenya , with speaker Todd Pepper, Tuesday, March 21 at 7:00 p m at Leamington & District Half Centur y Centre, 160 Talbot St E Ever yone is welcome to attend
FAMILY KNIT/LOOMING CLUB - Saturday, March 25, 10:30 - 11:30 p m at Leamington Librar y All skill levels are welcome to this family knitting club that teaches kids to make a baby hat to donate to a baby in the hospital Parents and grandparents are encouraged to attend too!
ERIE WILDLIFE RESCUE YARD/BAKE SALE, Saturday & Sunday, March 25 & 26 from 10:00a m to 3:00 p m , 11168 Tecumseh Rd E near Banwell Easter items, dishes, books, toys, pictures, something for ever yone All Indoors Lunch available All proceeds assist local orphaned and injured wildlife Call 519735-3919 for more information
WORKSHOPS - Wednesday, March 29 from 9:00 a m to 12:00 6 Mill St W Leamington safeTALK™
is a half-day alertness training session that prepares anyone over the age of 15, regardless of prior experience or training to become a suicide-alert helper
Most people with thoughts of suicide don’t truly want to die, but are struggling with the pain in their lives Through their words and actions they invite help to stay alive safeTALK-trained helpers can recognize these invitations and take action by connecting them with life-saving inter vention resources Register for an upcoming workshop (space is limited) or more information can contact t Renee Daudlin-Iacobelli at 519322-1443 ext 3100 or rdaudlin@insightadvantage ca LEAMINGTON BLOOD DONOR CLINIC at Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex Wednesday, April 5, 1:00 p m - 7:00 p m New Donors and Walk Ins Welcome! To book an appointment, please contact us at 1-888-236-6283 / www blood ca / GiveBlood App ONT PURPLE MARTIN ASSOCIATION MEETINGSaturday, April 22 9:00 a m at Orchard View Golf Course,1357 County Rd 34, Ruthven Come out and learn about these amazing birds Ever yone is welcome Info: Paul 519-738-3476
South Shore Health Centre offers WEEKLY FREE RECOVERY PROGRAMS, 15 John St (upstairs)
Leamington: Yoga for Recover y on Monday at 5:00 p m with Melodie Queenen; Westover Recover y Support Group on Monday at 6:30 p m ; SMART
Recover y on Wednesday at 6:30 p m ; Family & Friends on Thursday at 6:30 p m
SOUTHWEST OUTDOORS CLUB MEETS the second Tuesday of ever y month (except August) in the upstairs hall of the Wheatley Legion starting at 7:00 p
PARKINSON'S? Parkinson's Support Group meets
Leamington Half Centur y Centre 160 Talbot St E
Facilitators: Bob Prince and Laurie Stone Note: Individuals are encouraged to call 1-888-851-7376 before attending their first meeting Windsor-Essex Community Health Centre, 33 Princess St in Leamington is LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS who are interested in supporting young children Monday mornings and afternoons, 9:45 a
Research continues on best practices to control this species. When gardening, never plant phragmites or any other invasive species. For a list of native plants that are well suited to the Essex region, check out ERCA’s Native Plant Guide online at www.erca.org/wpcontent/uploads/2015/04/ Native-Plant-Guide-forweb.pdf
A video of ERCA’s pilot project to control invasive phragmites can be viewed here:
www.youtube.com/watch? v=RKRR8h7zJgo&t=2s
Kevin Money, ERCA’s Director of Conservation Services, demonstrates the height of invasive phragmites like those found at Hillman Marsh, along ditches and other wetland areas in the region.
Mount Carmel-Blytheswood supports Erie Shores Hospice
By Bryan Jessop
Students of Leamington’s most northerly elementary school have “Pooled” their money for a worthy cause.
A recent fundraiser at Mount Carmel-Blytheswood ended with an $868 contribution to the Erie Shores Hospice on Talbot Street West in Leamington. Although all the contributions came from the school’s Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 students, it was three teachers and the principal who ended up getting ‘soaked’ for the final, accumulated amount. As part of the school’s participation in the Grade 7 Leadership Program — which sends the two involved students from each school within the board to a camp later in the year — MCB’s Nick Peters and Cara Braun organized the charitable event.
The local school has taken part in annual Erie Shores Hospice fundraisers since the community project began. Previously, Mount Carmel-Blytheswood raised money for hospice with the combined sales of cookies and slush-
ies. Peters and Braun came up with the idea for what the school dubbed the Water Bucket Challenge on their own and organized the event without the assistance of parents or school staff. With some behind-the-scenes support of fellow Grade 7 students Amanda Unger, Raylene Schartner Maria Driedger and Grade 8 Abby Krueger, the Leadership Program duo promoted the week-and-a-half long fundraiser with a series of letters home to students and school PA system announcements.
“They were very helpful,” said Braun of her assisting fellow students. “They helped us raise a lot of money.”
“We’re definitely happy with how it went,” Peters added.
Throughout that time, students from each class were able to contribute one glass of water per dollar donated toward full-sized wash buckets that would eventually be dumped on participating teachers Melissa Murray, Kevin Alles, Sherry Wiper and principal Kim Pool. Each of the intended targets — soaked with water in similar fashion to the recent world-
wide Ice Bucket Challenge in support of ALS — declared his or her own required fundraising target that had to be met before climbing into an inflatable pool in the school’s gymnasium to become dunking targets. Allen insisted the school raise $100 while Pool set a goal of $300, Wiper $500 and Murray $600.
Donations were made at a booth set up in the school by Peters and Braun during afternoon breaks. The top contributor of each class was allowed to assist with the dunking process. In total, 10 buckets were filled with two emptied onto each of the teachers and four onto Pool. The top class — the Grade 8 room of Mrs. Toews, raising $382 — was treated to popcorn and a movie.
“They did an excellent job,” Pool said of the two organizing Grade 7 pupils. “We’re so proud of them. I’ve never had two students raise so much money on their own. They showed excellent leadership skills.”
Photos left to right: Mount Carmel-Blytheswood teacher Kevin Alles gets dunked by students and guest emcee Dan Braun during the school’s Bucket Challenge fundraiser for the Erie Shores Hospice. Students raised $868 in less than two weeks.
Mount Carmel-Blytheswood principal Kim Pool gets dunked by students and guest emcee Dan Braun.
Mount Carmel-Blytheswood teachers Melissa Murray, Kevin Alles, Sherry Wiper and principal Kim Pool show off their new “I Survived the MCB Bucket Challenge” t-shirt.
Local skater heading for Special Olympics in Austria
By Pat Bailey
While many think of figure skating as an individual sport, for one local skater teamwork has been the key to tremendous success.
At 17, Adelina Bailey-Lopes will be heading to Austria this weekend to compete on the world stage. The Cardinal Carter Secondary School student will be representing her country and competing in the Special Olympics World Winter Games in freeskate and dance.
Laurie Horne-Klassen, Adelina’s coach since she was just 5, said she has no expectations for her protégé.
“I just want Adelina to skate her best,” she said. “We have trained very well the past year for the Worlds.” But, she admitted, she would absolutely love for Adelina to bring home a medal.
Adelina is excited about the trip but is admittedly a little nervous. She said figure skating has given her an opportunity to express herself. Adelina’s dedication and success have not gone unnoticed — she was nominated for a WESPY Award. The banquet to honor local elite athletes was held Tuesday evening, Mar. 7 at the Caboto Club in Windsor.
Adelina has definitely worked hard to get this far. Laurie said they have had a rather vigorous regimen to follow to prepare for Austria, and believes Adelina is ready.
Laurie said it has taken a team of trainers and coaches to prepare Canada’s youngest member of Team Canada for competition. Susan Bremner has worked with Adelina on the psychological aspect of preparing herself mentally, while Vicki Bellaire was key in working with Adelina on edgework.
Adelina also attended Pat Chittle’s Sports Academy for off-ice training.
“It’s been a team effort,” she said. But in the end, she said, it’s Adelina, who has been involved with the Special Olympics for 8 years and who has put in the work necessary to
Ag Society Helps Sends Skater to Special Olympics
qualify to compete in Austria.
In fact it was a year ago that Adelina placed first in the ‘Canadians’ in Cornerbrook, Newfoundland, to qualify for world competition.
While there’s a team to prepare her for the actual on-ice competition, there’s also a team behind her at home making sure she is well-dressed and has the fi-
nances to make this a memorable trip.
In addition to Special Olympics Canada and the Essex County Warriors, Laurie said once again the local community has stepped up and showed their support for her young skater
She said the Leamington Agricultural Society made a generous donation and a few others donated privately.
The Leamington Skating Club’s president Jen Robinson also held a small fundraiser to pay for Adelina’s competition dress.
Her other gear, team Canada uniforms and winter wear, were provided by Special Olympics. So when Adelina takes in other sports such as speed skating, floor hockey, floorball, alpine skiing, cross country skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing or is just traveling throughout the village, she will be representing her country in its traditional red and white.
Ready or not, Adelina will leave for Austria with her teammates on March 12 and return on March 25. Laurie said she will also travel to Austria, arriving in time to coach and cheer on her Special Olympian.
The Leamington District Agricultural Society recently presented local skater Adelina BaileyLopes with a cheque for $1,000 to assist with trip expenses when she travels to Austria to compete in the Special Olympics. From left to right are: Dan Wiper of the Leamington District Agricultural Society, skating coach Laurie Horne-Klassen, Special Olympian Adelina Bailey-Lopes, Tammy Wiper of the Leamington District Agricultural Society, and Jennifer Robinson, President of the Leamington Figure Skating Club. The Ag Society is very proud of Adelina’s achievements and wishes her all the best in Austria! (Submitted photo)
Adelina Bailey-Lopes in her final training sessions before leaving this weekend for the Special Olympics Winter Games in Austria. She is pictured here with coaches Laurie Horne-Klassen (left) and Susan Bremner.
Senior Cougars earn place in OFSAA
By Bryan Jessop
Although the playoff run of the Cardinal Carter’s senior boys basketball team wasn’t quite as successful as that of their younger cohorts, the elder team still clinched a berth in the provincial tournament.
The Cougars landed a spot in the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Association championship event by winning a SWOSSAA challenge game Monday, Feb. 27 against the LKSSAA champion Ecole Secondarie de Pain Court Patriotes. The hosting Pain Court team led 13-10 and 28-23 after the first quarter and at the halftime break, but couldn’t hold off Cardinal Carter in the second half. Led by the attack of Ryan Raffoul, the Cougars posted a 68-63 victory to earn an appearance in the 2017 1A OFSAA tournament along with the hosting Lajeunesse Royals.
“We were pretty well matched — it was a back and forth game,” explained Cougars coach James Staley, who also led the junior boys basketball team to a SWOSSAA championship against Blenheim three days prior to the challenge match.
Staley explained that Pain Court used two players to cover Raffoul throughout the first half. Cardinal Carter responded by dispersing its players along the three point line, a strategy that paid off with Ralph Domingues and Mark Jraiche hitting a number of three-point shots. Raffoul was held to eight points in the first half, but bucketed 22 more in the second half to put his team ahead 44-43 after three quarters and by five at the final buzzer.
“He wore them down,” Staley said of Raffoul. “They were totally exhausted by the middle of the fourth quarter.”
A challenge game for a berth in OFSAA was permitted to the SWOSSAA region because Lajeunesse was granted a position in the event twice — once by previously being chosen as hosts and the second time by becoming SWOSSAA champions with an 84-33 victory against Pain Court. For the SWOSSAA title game, the Patriotes were missing two of its top starters that were later able to return for the game against Cardinal Carter. Pain Court won the LKSSAA final 64-21 against Lambton’s St. Francois-Xavier while the Cougars earned the right to challenge them by becoming WECSSAA finalists against the Royals. Lajeunesse won the WECSSAA title with an 87-36 win over the Cougars after defeating Ste. Cecile 90-15 in the semis. In the WECSSAA 1A quarterfinals, Cardinal Carter eliminated Westview Freedom Academy 78-38 before going on to the semis to beat LamotheCadillac 67-56. During a tournament in December, Lamothe-Cadillac defeated the Cougars by a spread of 36 points.The semifinal game was anticipated as a showdown between Lamothe’s Mamadou Bah — who scored 24 points — and Raffoul, who came up with 36.
The Cougars entered OFSAA as underdogs, officially ranked 19th of the tourna-
Soloman Sleiman of the Cougars looks for a teammate to receive a pass while being covered by General Amherst’s Darius Wilson in a Thursday, Feb. 2 WECSSAA Tier II senior boys basketball game at Cardinal Carter. The Cougars earned a spot in the OFSAA 1A tournament March 6-8, to be hosted by the Lajeunesse Royals. Cardinal Carter won a Monday, Feb. 27 challenge game 68-63 against the Pain Court Patriotes to appear in this year’s provincial tournament. (SUN file photo))
ment’s 20 teams. Their first preliminary game was against the #1 ranked Central Toronto Academy on Monday, March 6, where the Cougars were defeated 85-56. Raffoul led all players with 36 points. In Round 2, Cardinal Carter was eliminated from further play with a 76-57 loss to eighth-ranked Rockway Mennonite Collegiate. Raffoul again led his team, collecting 29 points.
Cougar players remained at the host sites — Lajeunesse and Assumption — to take in the tournament’s playoff games.
“It’s going to be a great experience for them,” Staley said prior to OFSAA’s first game. “There’ll be some spectacular teams there, so it should be a real eye opener.”
The senior Cougars are expected to be a strong team for 2017-18, as only Jason Tannous — who missed the season
with a knee injury — is of graduating age. The team will also have a crop of talented players who are currently juniors to chose from, including three who suited up with the seniors for the OFSAA tournament.
still searches for his first. Pictured are the happy golfers Bill and Carolyn Kelly. (Submitted photo)
in the in the in the in the in the
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
A positive reaction to a stressful situation can only work in your favor, Aries When others buckle under the pressure, you are able to deliver Higher-ups will recognize this
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, even if you believe that your life is floating out of control, you have the ability to rein things in whenever you desire Ask for help if you need it
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, although you may want to incorporate others’ plans into your weekly goals, this might be the time to focus solely on your own needs Once you are set, you can assist others
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, there is no room in your life right now for lazy thinking All of your focus must be directed at the tasks at hand because someone is relying entirely on you
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
No one can force you t o share your deepest emotions if you’re not ready to do so, Leo Wait until the time is right to bare any secrets You may have romantic surprises
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, resist the temptation to give into impulses, analyzing and giving careful thought to your ideas instead You have an entire week to work things out
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Don’t allow a power struggle to disturb the harmony at home or at the office, Libra Unless you can be level-headed and see all sides of the situation, keep mum
ANSWERS ON PAGE 21
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, continue to be diligent in your pursuit of knowledge The more you learn, the more fulfilled you will be Consider going back to school to satisfy your thirst for knowledge
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, speaking about fantasies as if they are real can be enjoyable, but do not start believing the tales are true You may need a good dose of reality this week
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Relationship issues with a friend, spouse or even family member come to the forefront this week, Capricorn Try to remain cool and level-headed throughout
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, you will be recognized for your efforts behind the scenes even if you are not in the spotlight It’s enough to get credit, especially if it can propel your career further
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, useful ideas come your way after a chat with colleagues or friends Pool this inspiration together for a plan
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
MARCH 5
Dan Carter, Athlete (35)
MARCH 6
Connie Britton, Actress (50)
MARCH 7
Laura Prepon, Actress (37)
MARCH 8
Freddie Prinze, Jr , Actor (41)
MARCH 9
Oscar Isaac, Actor (38)
MARCH 10
Carrie Underwood, Singer (34)
MARCH 11
Benji & Joel Madden, Musicians (38)
Trade in the shade
Several years ago, I had one of those sleepless nights so I decided to see what I could find on late night television. Eventually, I settled for a show featuring pre-recorded performances by mostly little-known stand up comedians.
One such comic went on a rant about people who start new relationships with someone they had already broken up with weeks, months or years ago. He compared such decisions to taking a sour/spoiled pitcher of milk, placing it in the fridge for a while and then expecting it to be fresh again once removed from said fridge.
While it’s universally agreed upon that spoiled food only gets worse with time, whether or not another human being deserves a second chance is often much more heavily debated. This is what basically comes to MY mind every time I hear about a professional sports team — hockey, baseball, football, basketball, whatever — that makes a trade for a player they had already done away with a couple years earlier.
Yeah, I get it — not all players are traded away because they were underperforming or were simply a bad fit for the team either on the playing surface or in the locker room. Some get traded away because the team has to offer SOMETHING to get what they’re looking for. Nowadays, some players are traded away to give a team more wiggle room with the salary cap.
As the NHL’s annual trade deadline approached, the league became a flurry of wheeling and dealing over the past few days. Much to my surprise, the Canadiens — notorious for sticking with the status quo over the past few seasons — made several deals. None of them were blockbusters like the pre-season Weber/Subban trade with Nashville, but changes were made nonetheless. The problem is that the Habs went out in search of size and strength rather than goal scorers. Of the eight Eastern teams in a playoff position as of the deadline, only one had scored fewer goals per game (Ottawa) than Montreal. And yes, those offensively superior seven teams include the Leafs. Yes, the Toronto Maple Leafs. When you’re being outscored by the Leafs, “gee, we need to be bigger and stronger” shouldn’t be the first thought that comes to mind. That thought SHOULD be “Holy crap, we need some goal scorers, NOW!”
Anyway, it was the Johnny Oduya trade from Dallas to Chicago that made me think of what I wrote in the first couple paragraphs. Oduya who played for the ‘Hawks after playing in Atlanta/Winnipeg and after spending less than two seasons in Dallas, is with Chicago again. Speaking of Dallas, remember Darryl Sydor? He suited up with the Stars for three separate stretches and was on the 1998-99 roster when that team won its first and only Stanley Cup. He wracked up 50 points that year, which is none too shabby for a defenseman. Throughout his career, he was traded seven times. That must be a ‘glass half full or half empty’ experience… does it mean everyone wants you or everybody wants to get rid of you?
Speaking of taking spoiled milk out of the fridge, my Habs have also made a recent change on the other side of the bench. On Valentine’s Day, Claude Julien officially replaced Michael Therrien for the SECOND time (can you feel the love?) in Canadiens’ history. Yup, two consecutive head coaches who’ve held that position with the team on two separate occasions. As crazy as putting one pitcher of spoiled milk back in the fridge in hopes that it’ll taste better the second time around, imagine doing that twice? “Gross, this one’s gone bad too! Oh well, maybe it’ll be different than that last one.” Seriously though, circumstances change. Stanley Cup winner one season, scapegoat six years later. Exactly 11 months after achieving the most wins as a head coach in Boston Bruins history, Julien was fired by Beantown management (and picked up by the Habs precisely one week later). The Bruins’ record that Julien set was formerly held by Art Ross — who coached Boston four different times and was every other coach for that franchise from 1924 to 1945. Boston has also had returning coaches in Milt Schmidt and Harry Sinden, the latter who has led the team three times. That’s a lot of spoiled milk.
In the real world, I can’t think of too many people who’ve returned to the same employer after parting ways on lessthan-amicable terms the first time. Then again, professional sports aren’t all that representative of the real world. I suppose things are different when an entire ‘industry’ includes only 30 rival ‘companies’, each of which can only employ a couple dozen active ‘workers’ to three different positions (forwards, defensemen and goalies).
The ‘here today, gone tomorrow, back again a few months later’ scenario must have been downright commonplace during the Original Six era.
At any rate, trades are almost always a roll of the dice. With NHL playoffs just over a month away, we’ll know who the winners and losers are in due time.
Atom Minors have busy weekend
Southpoint Capitals Atom Minors, sponsored by Jose’s Bar & Grill, had a busy weekend with games in Kingsville and Windsor.
On Saturday, Mar. 4 the Capitals travelled to Kingsville to take on the Erie North Shore Storm where both teams gave it their all. Liam Ouellette was able to get the first goal past the Kingsville net minder to get the Capitals on the board. Nicholas Mastromatteo also found the back of the Kingsville net which gave the Capitals a two-goal lead
after the first period.
Capitals netminder Jack Thomas was on fire; however, Kingsville was able to score in the second period to tie up the game.
Both teams had to work hard to get the puck to the other end. Liam Ouellette scored again for the Capitals, giving them a 3-2 lead, but the Kings came back
and took the game 4-3.
On Sunday, Mar. 5 the Capitals travelled to Windsor to take on the tough Riverside Rangers at the WFCU Centre. The Caps gave it their all with Mateo Pereira and Nicholas Mastromatteo getting the puck past the Rangers netminder. The Rangers took the win 6-2.
BRYAN JESSOP
Jessop’s Journal
Southpoint Capitals Chase Simpson, Dayne Di Milo and Owen Pimentel rush for the puck against the Riverside Rangers. (Submitted photo)
Southpoint Super 6 team shines at St. Thomas tourney
During the weekend of February 24-26 the Southpoint Super 6 hockey team made the journey up Hwy 401 to participate in the Boston Pizza St. Thomas hockey tournament. This was very exciting for the team since this would be the first time that the players would be experiencing hockey tournament play.
The first opponent that the Southpoint crew faced was a team from Mt. Brydges. If there were any nerves being felt by the kids it did not show, as right from the opening faceoff Southpoint attacked and A.J. Youssef banged in their first goal only 15 seconds into the opening frame. Kayde Grossi and Brayden Foster picked up the assists. Halfway through the first, Foster and Grossi got the puck in deep and Youssef was able to pot his second from around the crease. With 18 seconds left, Taylor LeFaive was able to notch Southpoint’s third of the period assisted by Isaiah Georges and Kavan Wales.
The second period started much like the first with Kayde Grossi notching his second of the day. Assists went to Youssef and Foster. Jonathon Recker kept the momentum going by scoring his first of the tourney, assisted by Rachel Symons and Brody Brown. Grossi was able to increase the lead with helpers going to Youssef and Ben Liebrock.
In the third period Southpoint just kept it rolling with Grossi completing his hat trick, assisted by Charlie Ketler and Foster. Not to be outdone, Youssef was able to complete his hat trick with the assists going to Grossi and Liebrock. Jonathon Recker, set up by Owen Derksen and LeFaive, kept the goals coming for Southpoint. Still on the same shift, Recker was able to score his third of the day assisted by Brown. Shawn Renwick set up Grossi’s fourth of the game with 2 minutes left. Finally, with 30 seconds remaining, Kayden Cook banged in Southpoint’s twelfth of the game with assists going to Ty Gould and Tyler Thomas. Although she did not have many shots, Karly Franklin stayed loose enough to stop all pucks sent her way.
After a quick lunch the Southpoint squad was back at the rink facing a team from Unionville. Again Southpoint jumped on their foe right from the drop of the puck. A.J. Youssef, assisted by Grossi and Foster, got their team up early. Before the first period came to a close, Grossi, assisted by Youssef, had put the Southpoint squad up by 2. The Unionville Jets managed a goal before Owen Derksen, assisted by Kayden Cook, restored Southpoint’s 2-goal lead. In the final frame, Brayden Foster set up Kayde Grossi for his second of the game and gave Southpoint a little breathing room as they coasted to a 4-1 victory. Southpoint had many chances and controlled much of the play, and Karly Franklin made some very good saves to lead her team to the win.
Saturday morning the Southpoint Super 6’s faced off against the South Huron Sabres. This game featured a lot of back and forth play with both teams having numerous chances. South Huron scored first but 1 minute later A.J. Youssef, assisted by Kayde Grossi, was able to even the score.
After South Huron scored twice in the middle frame the Southpoint kids found themselves down by 2 heading into the final period. Both teams traded chances but Karly Franklin, in net for Southpoint, and the South Huron goalie put up a brick wall and would not allow any of the shots directed their way to get in behind them. Finally, with 1:58 remaining, Brody Brown was able to strip the puck from a defender and bury it to close the gap to 1 goal. Southpoint then pulled their goalie and had numerous chances around the net but were unable to tie the game, thus resulting in a hard fought 3-2 defeat.
The Southpoint Super 6 team then travelled to Aylmer to face their next opponent, a strong Sarnia Sting team. Sarnia jumped out to a 1-0 lead but A.J. Youssef, assisted by Jonathon Recker, was able to even the score at 1 after 1.
Into the second period the 6’s were able to keep pace with the strong Sarnia team, but after a few defensive breakdowns they found themselves quickly down by 4. Southpoint struggled a little defensively and if it was not for the strong play of Franklin in net, the score could have been worse.
In the third the team seemed to regain some of their compete level and had many scoring chances but just couldn’t get the puck across the line until Ben Liebrock stole the puck and went in alone to score unassisted. Unfortunately, too little, too late for the Super 6 squad as they would fall 6-2.
Southpoint Capitals Novice Blue, sponsored by Leamington Chrysler, won back-to-back games. On Feb. 18 they took on the Kingsville Kings Green in Kingsville and won 6-4. On Sat. Mar. 4 Southpoint faced the Kingsville Kings Red in Wheatley and took
That loss evened Southpoint’s record at 2 wins and 2 losses after round robin play, meaning they would be slotted in as the #1 seed in Pool B (5th place overall out of 12 teams). This meant that they would have a date to play Mt. Brydges Blues in a Pool B semi-final on Sunday morning.
Both teams traded chances early in this contest but to no avail. Then, on an unfortunate bounce, a shot from a Mt. Brydges player was tipped by Southpoint back across and into the net, leaving Karly Franklin no chance to defend. The Southpoint 6’s spirit was not broken, as shortly after Owen Derksen made a nice rush and got in alone, beating the Blue’s goalie, only to have it hit the crossbar and go wide.
In the second period, Southpoint, during a 12-second span, had a few defensive lapses allowing Mt. Brydges in alone to score 2 quick goals. They would eventually pot 1 more to make the final 4-0.
The Southpoint 6’s had many fantastic chances but ran into a good little goalie who made save after save. Karly Franklin had a very good tournament herself, making stops, sometimes spectacular, throughout the tournament.
In the end the Southpoint Super 6 team enjoyed their first taste of tournament play. From the exciting hockey games to the mini sticks and swimming at the hotel, it was an experience that every player will surely always remember. A fun time was had by players and parents alike. Special thank you to the Southpoint Super 6 coaching and training staff: Terry Symons, Tony Youssef, Ryan Derksen and Greg Liebrock. Your hours of teaching and commitment to these kids is greatly appreciated by all.
Intermediate girls finish tournament with 1-1-1 record
The Southpoint Highbury Canco Intermediate girls participated in the Southpoint tournament on the weekend.
Their first game saw Southpoint Stars paired up with LaSalle 1. LaSalle played a fast, tough game and the Stars girls had a tough time handling them. There was no scoring in the first period, but LaSalle did put two in during the second and two in the third. Southpoint’s Kelsey Babkirk scored on her own rebound but it was waived off due to a quick whistle. On the ensuing faceoff, Connie Wiebe fired a pass from Kelsey into the net. The game ended at 4-1.
The next opponent for Southpoint was Lakeshore Black. The Southpoint team played with more confidence and went on the attack often. There was no scoring in the first. Late in the second, Brienne Mastronardi sent a good shot high into the Lakeshore net. Assists came from Madison Pardo and Tatum Davison. Unfortunately Lakeshore scored with only a few seconds left in the period to tie the game at 1-1 and that is the way it ended.
The third game had Southpoint meeting up against London and the Stars did not want to end the tournament without a win. They opened the scoring midway through the first on a goal by Krystan Garant. She was standing in the perfect spot at the corner of the net when the puck came to her and she put it away. London, desperate for points, pulled the goalie with 2 minutes remaining in the period. The extra attacker paid off and they scored with a minute left.
In the second period, Joline Driedger fired the puck in from the lefthand side to pick up her first goal of the season.
Play went back and forth in the third. With 1:30 left, Kelsey Babkirk sent the puck into the net. With that, London went with the extra attacker again. Southpoint sent a few pucks to the empty net but wasn’t able to connect. London did score; however, the game ended in a 3-2 win for Southpoint.
Southpoint Highbury Canco finished the tournament with a 1-1-1 record and played two solid games out of the three.
Friday Retirees bowling scores
The following are the high bowling scores for the Friday Retirees Bowling League at Empire Lanes for March 3. Men Over 180: Heinz Kosempel 204-193-223, Dave LaBonte 192, Ernie Purr 201, Carl Robinson 183, Jack Valade 201-204, Tys Schaafsma 201-183-197, Jamie Arquette 200186, Gary Alderson 188, Maurice Cowan 182, Ozzie Wolf 223.
Women Over 150: Rosemary Heisler 159, Mary Hornyak 160, Gail Johnston 159, Diane Sinclair 173-164-168, Peggy Hillman 154-177-187, Jeannette Gagnier 155, Patti Clifford 152, Betty Trepanier 165-156, Gloria Robinson 152-160, Susan Power 158, Darlene Wolf 160, Theresa DeCaluwe 186-174-170.
High Handicap Games: Carl Robinson 281, Steve Murphy 268, Ozzie Wolf 258, Jackie VanKempen 266, Peggy Hillman 265, Ann Murphy 262.
High Handicap Series: Steve Murphy 748, Jim Armstrong 720, John Dubois 716, Peggy Hillman 762, Theresa DeCaluwe 734, Betty Trepanier 728.
The
But
From
Keith Lindsay Memorial another success
By Bryan Jessop
During an era and time of year where hockey tournaments are particularly difficult to arrange, the Keith Lindsay Memorial Tournament is running as strong as ever.
The Southpoint Minor Hockey Association’s annual house league girls’ tournament made a busy place of the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, Wheatley Area Arena and surrounding businesses over the Friday, March 3 to Sunday, March 5 weekend. As it did in 2016, the tournament brought in 36 teams from local centres and others from London, Stoney Creek, Brantford and as far as Sault Ste. Marie. For the past several years, the KLM has been organized by co-chairs Kelly and Greg Dries, the latter who serves as the SMHA’s director of girls hockey and head coach of one of five Southpoint teams in the tournament — the Intermediate Red squad.
The three-day event included 71 games dispersed between the Highbury Canco, Unico and Wheatley Area Arenas with eight teams in the atom age group, six in peewees, 10 in bantams and 12 in the intermediate category. Each atom, peewee and intermediate team was guaranteed a minimum of three round robin games while each bantam group played a minimum of four. In the tournament’s earlier years, teams included the occasional American entry and one team from Stoney Creek. This year, the Hamilton-area community sent four teams.
“We try to make it as fun and as convenient as possible for everyone,” explained Greg Dries. “We’re allowed to have each team play as many as three games per day, but we try to keep it down to two. When teams from out of town enjoy the whole weekend, they’ll spread the word to other teams from their own centre.”
This year, Stoney Creek’s teams — including players, coaches and families — booked nearly the entire Best Western Hotel.
“A lot of the restaurants are happy too,” Dries noted. “There are 30 to 40 reservations being made at a time. Some restaurants have to bring in extra staff for this weekend.”
The Dries spend about a month and a half or 100 total hours preparing for each year’s Keith Lindsay Memorial Tournament, dedicating time to registration, arranging pool groupings, schedules, game sheets, acquiring individual player keepsakes, team keeper trophies and medals for players representing finalist and championship teams in each age group.
The husband and wife duo is assisted by a group of volunteers made mostly of other SMHA executives and members. Sponsorship this year was again provided by the Leamington Women’s Hockey League for trophies and awards and RoomRoster, a company providing software to help arrange and organize tournaments of various formats.
All age categories included round robin games on Friday and Saturday and semifinal and final matches on Sunday. The round robin points system awarded two points for a win, one for a tie, a point for each period won, a half point for each period tied and a bonus point for a shutout win.
This year’s atom group placed the Southpoint Stars in a pool with South County Harrow White, Lakeshore Blue and Sault Ste. Marie. The tournament started with a 1-1 draw against Harrow Blue at Wheatley Area Arena, followed by a 2-0 win over Sault Ste. Marie. In their final round robin game, the Stars
settled for a 2-2 draw against the Lakeshore group for a total of 10.5 points. By finishing second in its pool, Southpoint earned a semifinal appearance against South Counties Blue of the opposite group. The Stars lost the Sunday game 2-1 in a shootout. The SC Blue team went on to win the final 2-1 in overtime against the Essex Thunder.
The bantam Stars were pitted against Stoney Creek Green, Lasalle One, South County Kingsville and Stoney Creek Black in their pool. The team’s tournament began with a 3-2 loss against LaSalle One, followed by a 1-1 draw versus Stoney Creek Black. On Saturday, Southpoint won 3-1 versus Stoney Creek Green before defeating SC Kingsville 3-0. With 13 total points, the Stars finished second in their pool to earn a semifinal berth against Lakeshore Blue. Lakeshore won the game in a 2-1 overtime decision. LaSalle Black won the title game 2-1 over the Lakeshore squad.
The Intermediate Red Stars faced Stoney Creek, Windsor and Lakeshore Grey in their pool. Their schedule began with a 4-2 victory against Windsor and a 2-2 tie versus Lakeshore Grey on Friday. Round robin play ended Saturday with a 7-0
win versus Stoney Creek. Their Southpoint White rivals took on Lasalle, London Beaver and Lakeshore Black. They fell 4-1 to LaSalle to officially start the tournament and tied Lakeshore Black 1-1 later that evening. On Saturday evening, they defeated London Beaver 3-2.
The intermediate group granted semifinal appearances to each of the three pool leaders and a wildcard spot to the top second-place team, captured by Windsor. The Southpoint White team finished second in their pool with seven points while Southpoint Red was first in its group with 12.5 points. In the semis, Southpoint Red faced Windsor and won 2-1.
In the championship game, they faced the Tecumseh Wild-
The peewees were grouped with LaSalle and South County Harrow — each of whom played round robin games against the Kent County Fillies, South County Kingsville and South County Amherstburg. Southpoint was shut out 2-0 in their first game against Kingsville, but bounced back with a 3-1 win over Kent County later that day. Their final preliminary game ended in a 4-2 loss against Amherstburg on Saturday for a point total of 5.5 and fifth overall among all peewee entries. As the group took the top four overall teams into the semis rather than the top two from each pool, Southpoint did not advance to the playoff rounds. In the championship match, Kingsville defeated Amherstburg 1-0.
the Tecumseh team also donned red jerseys, the Southpoint team wore
predominantly white sweaters. Pictured are (in front) Sam Hartleib and Caitlyn Preston. First row: Morgan Amicone, Ravynne Sarkis, Krista Marshall, Abby Gualtieri, Kaisa Dyck, Syndey Dries, Kayla Collison. Back row: John Marshall, Greg Dries, Paige Thompson, Mackenzie Mahon, Lea Marshall, Jenn Fehr, Angelica Ouellette, Kim Goyeau, Kelly Dries and Shelley Beleutz. (Submitted photo)
The Southpoint Atom Stars celebrate a game-tying goal against SC Harrow during a round robin game of the
Alexa Taylor of the Southpoint Bantam Stars circles behind the net with the puck under the watchful eye of a LaSalle One opponent during the third period of a Keith Lindsay Memorial Tournament round robin game Friday, March 3 at Unico Arena. LaSalle won 3-2. (SUN photos)
Shelby Hunter of the Intermediate White Stars carries the puck toward the LaSalle One zone during a Keith Lindsay Memorial Tournament round robin game at Highbury Canco Arena. LaSalle won 4-1.
cats, winning by a final score of 2-0. Sam Hartleib earned the shutout for Southpoint Red while goals were provided by Kayla Collison and Kim Goyeau. Presenting the awards this year was Kayla Lindsay. Kayla is a daughter of Keith Lindsay, a pioneer of girls hockey in Leamington who passed away in November of 2009.
Golden Years
golf
report
Forty-eight golfers delivered a strong performance of 85 aces on March 2 at Colasanti’s. Congratulations to Ron Fick who delivered 4 aces over a span of 8 consecutive holes and to Julia Kos for her 3 consecutive aces on holes 9, 10 and 11.
Leading the charge for aces were Madeline Butler and Ron Fick with 5 each. Four dropped for Cathy Dewhurst, Julia Kos and Colleen Pearse, followed by 3 each by Pete Daudlin, Jack Gisi, Tony Hudvagner, Andy Orsini, Linda Walsh, Bill Ward and Bryon Walker. Two dropped for Mary Binder, Kathy Bradley, Perpetua Hildrop, Tom Hyatt, Laurie Hylton, Eva Kah, Bob Martin, Bill Mayville, Barry Sweet, Faith Reidy and Vicky Harris, Eileen McIntosh and Rose Taylor. Chipping in with 1 apiece were Jim Allan, Mike Binder, Dorothy Cascadden, Murray Cascadden, Wanda Hayes, Murray Hartford, Gary Honey, Marie Lasi, Bob McWilliam, John Murphy, Bill Taylor, Gail Turk, Gerrit Vriesen, Ray Thibert, Carole Thibert and Moe Scratch. Low score of 16 for 9 holes was captured by Ron Fick. Colleen Pearse, Tony Hudvagner, Julia Kos, Tom Hyatt, Andy Orsini, Bob McWilliam, Pete Daudlin and Bill Ward each registered 17. Managing 18 were Bill Mayville, Marie Lasi, Jack Gisi, Bryon Walker, Eileen McIntosh, Rose Taylor, Cathy Dewhurst (2), Tom Hyatt (2), Andy Orsini, Barry Sweet, Bob McWilliam, Art Sweet, Laurie Hylton, Julia Kos and John Murphy.
A strong performance by Andy Orsini netted 35 over 18 holes with Cathy Dewhurst, Julia Kos and Tom Hyatt each scoring 36. A 37 was registered by Bill Mayville, Julia Kos, Tom Hyatt, Bob McWilliam, Pete Daudlin, Bob Martin, Art Sweet, Laurie Hylton and Bill Ward. Stroking 38 were Bryon Walker, Barry Sweet, Eva Kah and Bill Ward.
A 36-hole total of 73 was carded by Julia Kos and Tom Hyatt. Andy Orsini with 74, Bill Ward with 75, Cathy Dewhurst and Art Sweet with 77, and Colleen Pearse, Pete Daudlin, Eva Kah and Laurie Hylton with 78 rounded out the scoring.
First place honours with 232 went to Team 10 (Andy Orsini, Bob McWilliam, Barry Sweet). A 236 was good enough for 2nd place by Team 15 (Bill Taylor, Laurie Hylton, Bill Ward). Third and final spot went to Team 8 with a score of 240 (Julia Kos, Kathy Bradley, John Murphy).
Play continues every Thursday at 9:30 a.m. at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens.
Rhine Danube bowling scores
The following are the Rhine Danube bowling leagues scores for February 20.
Games Over 200: Richard Dickau 202214, Ernie Purr 226, Gary Garnham 211-201, Ozzie Wolf 213, Heinz Kosempel 222-236255, Chris Kosempel 202-204-202, Mauro Paglione 209-203-205, Dan Dalimonte 246212, Wayne Abbott 212, Jack Valade 203.
Series Over 550: Richard Dickau 609, Gary Garnham 590, Ozzie Wolf 563, Heinz Kosempel 713, Chris Kosempel 608, Mauro Pagliome 617, Dan Dalimonte 638.
High Handicap Games: Dan Dalimonte 291, Heinz Kosempel 285, Willy Schauer 281, Lloyd Owens 281.
High Handicap Series: Heinz Kosempel 803, Dan Dalimonte 773, Richard Dickau 771.
Standings: Fittler Farms 39, Del Fresco 39, S.W. Property 33, Rhine Danube 32, Weil’s Food 26, Dickau Construction 20.
Family inherits 1958 Ford retractable hardtop
The Ford Motor Company added new features to their cars throughout the 1950s. Its first 2-door hardtop arrived in 1951 and its first Fordomatic transmission the same year. In 1952, Ford put its gas filler neck behind the rear license plate for greater convenience when filling up. And in 1954, Ford brought out a new 2-door hardtop with a transparent glass roof. But none of these improvements matched the exciting news of the new Ford Skyliner hardtop with a roof that folds into the trunk!
Neeraj Sharma of Peel Region reports that his family has inherited a 1958 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner from his father-in-law. The car actually goes to their 17-year-old daughter, who is now old enough to drive!
The car is fully restored and a dazzling piece of automotive history. The Ford Motor Company built the Skyliner for three model years only – ’57 to ’59. With the press of a button, the steel roof rises into the air while the trunk lid, hinged at the back, opens to receive it. The front of the roof folds under the main part of the roof so that the roof can fit into the trunk. Then the trunk lid closes, turning this
hardtop into a convertible!
And from that standpoint, you would think everyone would rush out and buy one. Exactly 20,766 were built for the 1957 model year, followed by 14,713 for 1958 and 12,915 for 1959. All were powered by V8 engines: a 272, 292, or 312 in ’57, and for ’58 and ’59, the 292, 332, and 352.
There were two drawbacks, depending on your point of view. The ’57 Skyliner, for example, cost $2942 US whereas the ’57 Sunliner convertible cost only $2505 US. In other words, you had to pay $437 more than a convertible for the Skyliner, back when $437 was a lot of money. Also, when the roof was in the trunk, space for luggage was extremely limited.
Some people wondered how reliable the Skyliner was, given the fact that it required six electric motors (five in ’59), four lift jacks,
a series of relays, ten solenoids, four locking mechanisms for the roof, and 610 feet of wiring. Considering the complexity of the design, it was surprisingly reliable. Also, the gas tank had to be mounted vertically behind the rear seat, which inadvertently added a measure of safety in rear-end collisions. Ford for 1960 was restyled and perhaps the retractable hardtop concept did not lend itself well to the new design. And of course, declining sales figures doomed it for sure. But many surviving examples have now been restored to showroom condition and are highly prized collectibles today.
I’m always looking for more stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca or write Bill Sherk, P.O. Box 255, 25 John Street, Leamington, ON N8H 3W2.
/
IMMEDIATELY For projects related to labour disputes and protests. Above average earning potential. Must be willing to travel. TO APPLY PLEASE EMAIL: rdewsbury@afimaccan.com
TRANSCRIPTION! Indemand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!
1958 Ford Skyliner
MARCH BREAK SALE. 238 Robson Road, Leamington. Saturday March 11 only.
10:00 a.m. to 12 noon. Collectible glass, 100s of music cds, hardcovers, antique cabinets and more. No early birds! Inquiries cjoy@bell.net. mr8
FISH DINNERS DURING
Lent, every Friday from 4.30 to 6.30 pm at St. Michael's Parish, John Street, Leamington. Adults $12 / Children under 12 years $5. Come and enjoy. mr8-ap5
IN CONCERT AT the McGregor K of C (9560 Walker Road) Saturday, March 18 at 7:00 p.m. Opening Band – Winterline (Central Canadian Bluegrass Award Winners).
Tickets: $20 advance; $25 at the door (519-776-8716). mr8-15
KINGSVILLE LEGION
BRANCH 188 - Friday Night Dinners 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Weekly Specials $14 (Ribs or Perch). Other weekly menu items $12. Karaoke every 3rd Saturday of the month 8:00 p.m. 519-7335162 (office) or 519-7339081 (bar). ja6-tf
LADIES! YOU ARE INVITED to a dinner evening at Colasanti's on Monday, March 23 at 6:00 p.m. Cost $18. Our feature is Lindsay Ecker, "Essential Oils", natural solutions for your health. Music provided by Betty Dietz and our guest speaker is Wendy Taylor, "Always a Mother". Reservations by Friday, March 10 with Barb 519-326-7631. Presented by Leamington After 5 and rsvpministries. mr8
SERVICES
J J STITCHING - SEWING, alterations, and repairs. Pants shortened $8.50 plus tax. (Some exceptions may apply such as lined pants). If your clothing is too tight or too baggy, give me a call to see if it can be altered. Call Jean at 519-968-2261. 14 Johnson Avenue, Leamington. jjstitching@gmail.com fe15-mr29
PRINTING: BUSINESS ENVELOPES,invoices, flyers, business cards, custom print jobs, whatever your printing needs, call Jolene at The Sounthpoint Sun for quick and economical service, 519-398-9098. tf
ERIE APARTMENTS
137 Erie St. South 2 bedroom units available. 2nd & 3rd floor. 13th month free. Available immediately. Call 519-791-1972
LEAMINGTON LAKEFRONT
Dr. Brian E. Adamson 24 Oak St. East
519-326-8413
Eye examinations by appointment
MUSIC LESSONS IN KINGSVILLE
43 Pearl St. East 519-997-7777 rebelcowboymusic.com
ITEMS FOR SALE
SEASONAL FIREWOOD FORsale. Call 519-3261770. mr8
WANTED TO BUY. Antiques, estates, costume jewellery, gold, sterling, coins, tools, clocks, toys. We buy it all. Free appraisals. Cash on the spot. Call 519-727-8894. ja18-my31
Upscale and Affordable in Leamington’s ONLY waterfront rental apartment building overlooking Leamington Marina and Park and minutes from the beach. Amenities include:
• library and social rooms
• new Smart Card “no coin” laundry • beautiful lobby • underground parking
• outdoor balconies
• FREE utilities and window coverings
• Fully secured and 24-7 onsite management. Ask us about our limited time “New Tenant” incentives. www.ska-apartmentrentals.com Call Mike or Kevin 519-326-8819
roll bar, turf tires, front rubber fenders, 965 hrs. w/JD 300CX
e
; accessories that will fitJD 6’ belly mount mower; Frontier snowblower; etc; Int. 5088 tractor, 4582 hrs., updated cab kit & trans, new air conditioning unit & hoses; Two RJ 500 bu. & 1 Derynck 200 bu gravities; Canada Trailer tandem axle 7000 lb per axle, 14’ dump trailer; Karl Neudorf db. disc ditcher, 3 ph, new style; Bush Hog 1550- 9 shank chisel plow & other tillage equip; like new Farm King 10”x41’ crank lift PTO auger; like new Lucknow 3 ph 78” model BRT374RT rototiller; 1000 gal US water tank on heavy duty chassis; Geo. White 400 gal sprayer w/45’ boom; heavy duty log splitter; good shop equipment; pumps; like new Stihl & other yard equip. and many other items. Details & photos at
(word ads only)
E-mail, call or drop off your classified ad by Friday at 4:30 p.m. 194 Talbot
Ph: 519-398-9098 Email: sun@mnsi.net
We are currently seeking an experienced candidate for the FULL TIME, PERMANENT POSITION OF FABRICATOR/ GENERAL LABOURER Wages negotiable. Willing to train the right candidate. Please forward resume in person to: 229 Talbot St. W. Leamington between the hours of 7:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday - Friday. Or by email to: leamingtonglass@bellnet.ca
LA GENERAL
BOURERS
Via Verde Hydroponics Ltd.
is looking for:
GREENHOUSE WORKERS
Send resumes to: laserlooks@bellnet.ca 245 Talbot St. W. Suite 102 Leamington, ON 519-324-0078
S PACKHOUSE
cliippppinngg, , Pickkiinngg, exxpperiien k woork grre or m Faarm
Grreeenhouse p Peeppp & Toomato e Acre 51 r T Pep Gr F r g w r ex r cking lip ing
Lifttinng
etc. , dee-leafiinngg, , . asset. an nce enhouse er t d fing
6 , daailyy, y vaary s hourrs on g Deppendiinng
a of t par be and i k woork to y Abillity
$11 Waagge:
• Job duties include plant crop, harvest crop, crop maintenance, greenhouse cleanup, other farm duties as assigned, clean work area, check product for quality assurance, transplant crops, vegetable propagation, sort, pack and stack produce.
• Job requires standing, bending, kneeling for long periods of time, repetitive tasks, working under hot, humid conditions in greenhouse.
• Salary: $11.43 per hour, minimum 45 hours/week including weekends and holidays. Permanent full time job.
Email resume to: hr@sunritegreenhouses.com Fax: 519-733-5290
@ mastrroon-hr@ Coontaact:
C t tr r com n sunnsetggrroown 43//hhour. trraainn. l wiill teeam; y inndeeppendeently . weeek. per s daays , seasonalityy, 0--500llbbs 50l ty d y w k de d l t w l tr i 3/ r u tgr w
Greenhouse Worker
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Crop work, winding, pruning, harvesting
• Checking quality of harvested produce
• Other duties as assigned
WORK CONDITIONS:
• Fast-paced environment, repetitive tasks, standing for extended periods
• Bend, crouching, kneeling, hand-eye coordination, attention to detail
• Working at heights, hot environment
WAGE AND HOURS:
• 40 plus hours a week including Saturdays
• Wage: 11.43/hour, seasonal, full time
Please forward your resume by email to: hr@orangelinefarms.com (627 County Rd. 14, R.R. # 5, Leamington, ON N8H 3V8)
GREENHOUSE
e aloonggside k Woork diiseas and pest to of
& Bonuses Call:
sunnsetggrroownn.com com n unnsetggroown
Peermmanent. . exxpperiieence on t s needs g kiinng in d ex ri r t t r w u tgr w
VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Essex County’s largest community newspaper press is seeking a
PRESS HELPER
to work under the direction of the Press Operator.
Job Details:
• Assist with printing job set-up on web newspaper press.
• Must be mechanically inclined.
• Must be physically fit and comfortable lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Must have steel toed boots.
• Must be willing to learn and take direction.
• Must be comfortable working in a team environment.
• Approximately 30-40 hours per week.
• Experience helpful but not required.
Please drop off resume at: Southpoint Sun Office 194 Talbot St. East, Unit 5, Leamington or email to: press@southpointsun.ca
St. Clair College Seeks Community Representatives for the Board of Governors
St. Clair College is seeking to fill four positions on the Board of Governors for a three-year term beginning on September 1, 2017. The College Board is comprised of 17 members, including 12 appointed from the community, the College President and an additional four members who are elected from the College’s student, faculty, support and administrative groups.
Responsibilities include policy setting and contributing to the College strategic directions. Board members are required to attend one regular Board meeting per month (normally scheduled on the last Tuesday of the month) between September and June with the meetings beginning at 5:30 p.m. Additional meetings are scheduled on an as needed basis.
St. Clair College serves the Windsor and Essex County areas as well as the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Community representatives are drawn from this region. St. Clair College welcomes applications from representatives of the diverse multicultural communities that surround and enrich the College. St. Clair College serves over 9,000 full-time students and over 15,000 part-time learners.
Potential candidates are welcomed from a broad and diverse spectrum of industries and community segments. Experience on community boards and/or knowledge of governance processes will be considered as important assets. Interested individuals are asked to send a resume, emphasizing their strengths in these asset areas, by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 31, 2017.
Ms. Shelley Girard, Secretary, Board of Governors
2000 Talbot Road West (Box 30) Windsor, Ontario N9A 6S4
Fax: 519-966-3763
email: sgirard@stclaircollege.ca
519-972-2704
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
All creditors and others having claims aginst the estate of Joseph Bryce Foster, late of Leamington, Ontario who died January 11, 2017 must be filed with the undersigned on or before the 17th day of March, 2017, after which date the estate of the deceased will be distributed, having regard only ot claims that have then been received.
Dated at Lemington, Ontario this 7th day of February, 2017
Raymond Gordon Foster Jr. and Margaret Edith Matthys, Estate Trustees with a Will, by C. Owen Spettigue Professional Corporation, Barristers and Solicitors, 57 Talbot Street East, P.O. Box 327, Leamington, Ontario N8H 3W3
Expropriations Act
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL TO EXPROPRIATE LAND
IN THE MATTER OF an application by The Corporation of the Municipality of Leamington for approval to expropriate land being part of a Reserve, Registered Plan 858, being part of 971 Point Pelee Drive in the Municipality of Leamington (formerly the Township of Mersea), in the County of Essex for the purposes of the construction of a sanitary sewer pumping station as part of the construction of a new sanitary sewer from Bevel Line Road at Seacliff Drive East southerly to the entrance of Point Pelee National Park at Mersea Road E, all of which is part of the Pelee Drive/Bevel Line Road Sanitary Sewage Collection System project.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the application has been made for approval to expropriate the land described as follows:
Part of a Reserve, Registered Plan 858 in the Municipality of Leamington (formerly the Township of Mersea) in the County of Essex now designated as Part 1 on Reference Plan 12R-26923.
Any owner of lands in respect of which notice is given who desires an inquiry into whether the taking of such land is fair, sound and reasonably necessary in the achievement of the objectives of the expropriating authority shall so notify the approving authority in writing,
(a) in the case of a registered owner, served personally or by registered mail within thirty days after the registered owner is served with the notice, or, when the registered owner is served by publication, within thirty days after the publication of the notice;
(b) in the case of an owner who is not a registered owner, within thirty days after the first publication of the notice.
The approving authority is
2016 2017 FLYERS TAKE SERIES LEAD OVER SARNIA
BY BRYAN JESSOP
If the first 60 minutes are any indication, the Western Conference quarterfinals between the Flyers and Legionnaires could very well end in the same 4-3 decision as Game One’s final score.
The opening round series between Leamington and Sarnia kicked off with a 4-3 win favouring the Flyers Thursday, March 2 at Highbury Canco Arena. The Legionnaires skated away with a modest 35-33 shots on goal advantage and were on the favourable side of most penalty calls, but couldn’t fend off their hosts in the third period to prevent a 4-3 loss. Brett Vorshuk and Scott Florence led Leamington’s attack with a goal and an assist each while Noah Hedrick backstopped the hosts for his first Junior B playoff victory in net.
The puck spent nearly even amounts of time at both ends during even-strength play in all three periods, although the Flyers appeared to piece together more near-miss scoring opportunities.
“I think it’s going to be like this the whole series, for six or seven games,” said Flyers head coach Tony Piroski after Game 1. “There wasn’t much flow tonight because of the penalties. It seemed like half the game was spent either on the power play or killing penalties.”
Leamington went zero for six on the man advantage while Sarnia was one for 10.
The Flyers hit two posts in the first period and failed to score during a five-on-three advantage that ran 92 seconds. The only goal of the opening 20 minutes was scored by the hosts’ Scott Florence, who from close range to the right of the net, took hold of his own rebound and shovelled it past Jorgen Johnson for a 1-0 lead at the 1:44 mark. Assists were drawn by blueliners Nicolas Mainella and Parker Jacques.
The Legionnaires drew even just prior to the two minute mark of the second frame when Zach Vanderwal circled behind the Flyer goal from right to left and upon crossing back over the goal line, sent a sharpangle wrist shot past Hedrick. The stalemate lasted 43 seconds before Blake Bain scored an unusual unassisted goal against Johnson. From behind the goal line and to the right of the Sarnia net, Bain released the puck to bank it off the back of the netminder’s right pad, back over the line and into the far side of the net.
Ethan Dupont again evened the score for the Legionnaires by grabbing a rebound within heavy traffic in front of Hedrick’s goal and sending it through a slew of scrambling players.
Sarnia took its first and only lead of the match early in the third with the teams playing four-on-four. Eric Marsh unloaded a wrist shot from a few steps inside the blueline that was redirected to give the visitors a 3-2 advantage. In what seemed like a rare instance of five-on-five hockey, Vorshuk stormed over the blue
line and from within the faceoff circle to Johnson’s right, sent a quick snap shot into the top left corner of the net after taking feeds from Brayden Klemens and Florence.
Mainella had a chance to bury the go-ahead goal with about six-and-half minutes to go, but missed the net on a penalty shot. Leamington continued to thwart power play attacks by Sarnia and with 4:26 to go, took its third lead of the game. Taking a Vorshuk pass from behind the net, Griffin Robinson snapped a shot that Johnson partially intercepted, only to allow the disc to hobble over the goal line. Zak Parlette drew the second assist.
ing for the home team was provided by Cale Phibbs, Josh Pope-Ferguson, Jaydon Fetter and Vorshuk. The Flyers were outshot 44-27, with Connor Meyerink earning the win in net.
Results from Game 4 — played Tuesday, March 7 in Sarnia — were unavailable by press deadline.
“Game 2 will be a tough one,” said Piroski. With two evenly-matched teams like this, there’s going to be some overtime. Who knows what Saturday will bring?”
“It was a close game and we expect it to be close for the rest of the way too,” added Florence. “Hopefully, we’ll keep coming out on top like tonight. We had a lot of chances in the first and the guys battled back late. From here, we’ll have to play more disciplined — we spent too much time in the box tonight.”
Game 2 brought the teams to Sarnia on Saturday, March 4, where the Flyers skated to a 3-2 overtime victory. Leamington goals came from Zach Guilbeault with two on the power play and overtime heroics from Bain. The shots on net advantage belonged to Sarnia with a 34-24 margin. Hedrick again backstopped his team to the victory.
Game 3 — played Sunday, March 5 at Highbury Canco, ended in a 4-2 decision favouring Leamington. Scor-
Rest of the West
On March 1, LaSalle started its playoff run with a 5-2 win over Strathroy while London doubled St. Marys 6-3. Thursday’s other game ended in a 2-1 win for Chatham versus St. Thomas. St. Marys evened its series Friday with a 10-7 win over London while Chatham edged St. Thomas 3-2. On Saturday, LaSalle beat Strathroy 5-3 while London posted a 3-0 victory over St. Marys. Chatham handed a 7-1 loss to St. Thomas on Sunday while LaSalle came out on top 4-3 over Strathroy, allowing the Maroons and Vipers to take 3-0 series leads. Tuesday finals were not available by press deadline.
QUARTERFINAL PLAYOFF GAMES:
Game 1: Leamington 4, Sarnia 3
Game 2: Leamington 3, Sarnia 2 (OT)
Game 3: Leamington 4, Sarnia 2
Game 4: results unavailable
*Thu. Mar. 9 at Leamington, 7:10 p.m.
*Sat., Mar. 11 at Sarnia, 7:10 p.m.
*Sun., Mar. 12 at Leamington, 7:10 p.m.
* - if necessary
Leamington’s Scott Florence makes a pass to the point as Sarnia’s Nash Nienhuis approaches during Game 1 of the Western Conference quarterfinal Thursday, March 2 at Highbury Canco Arena. Florence had a goal and an assist in the Flyers’ 4-3 win. (Sun photo)
The Leamington Flyers celebrate a 4-3 Game 1 victory in the Western Conference quarters against Sarnia. (Sun photo)
Jaydon Fetter of the Flyers fires a sharp angle shot at the Legionnaires net under the watch of Sarnia’s Ethan Dupont. (Sun photo)