Southpoint Sun April 7, 2010

Ferry service to Pelee Island halted

The M.V. Pelee Islander was taken out of service on Sunday, April 4, 2010 for repairs. It is expected that the vessel may remain out of service for several days.

Until further notice, passenger service to and from Pelee Island will be provided by airplane from the Windsor Airport. An offical with Owen Sound Transportation did not give a reason for the shut down.

There is no definite answer when ferry service will resume.

Top earners make provincial sunshine list

The agencies of the Broader Public Sector released the annual public report on salaries over $100,000 on Wednesday, March 31.

Annual reporting is required for most public bodies, but does not apply to hydroelectric companies as they are private companies under the relevant provincial legislation.

One consideration in the expansion of the “sunshine” lists, include the fact that the Consumer Price Index has not been applied to the reporting process since its inception in 1996. If it had the reporting level would now be set at $129,000 in 2009.

At the Municipality of Leamington there were 18 staff who earned $100,000 or more in salary and benefits in 2009. Top earning officials include CAO Bill Marck who earned $143,616, Police Chief Dean Gow at $154,159, Deputy Chief Reg Campbell at $136,869 and 4 senior staff (Directors) earning a range between $114,000 - $126,000. The Leamington list also included 11 police officers.

Leamington District Memorial Hospital had a total of eight staff on the published list. Among those listed were Warren Chant $141,164 but it should be noted he left the organization midway through 2009, Barbara Tiessen, Vice President of Patient Services earned $106,813, but she retired in September, and Sarah Padfield, Vice President of Corporate Services earning $130,632. LDMH also had five other staff members on the list.

This year the Ontario “sunshine list” expanded by more than 18% and some are questioning the relevance of the list or if the threshold should be moved up – at least to reflect the increase in the CPI. Also of note was last week’s provincial budget which announced the intent to freeze wages for all Public Sector employees. It is estimated that this move will save the government $750 million over the 2 year freeze period.

Two-year-old Hannah

daughter of

ington was one of hundreds of children who enjoyed the Easter

on Saturday, April 3 at FGT Family Church, 285 Talbot. Approximately 800 children and family members came for the comical show inside the building, followed by Easter Egg hunts divided into three age categories held outside to retrieve 10,000 plastic eggs. Face-painting and various games followed. More than 50 volunteers helped make sure that the event ran smoothly.

Listen Saturdays at 6pm and Sundays at 1pm to the Mix 96.7 Hit List. Email hitlist@mix967.ca to vote for the song you think should be #1! This WeekLast Week ArtistSong Title 11LadyAntebellumNeed You Now 23OrianthiAccording To You 34Kris AllenLive Like You Were Dying 46The ScriptBreakeven

52LifehouseHalfway Gone 65John MayerHeartbreak Warfare 78DaughtryLife After You 87Train Hey Soul Sister 99Michael BubleHaven’t Met You Yet 1011One RepublicAll the Right Moves 1112LaurellCan’t Stop Falling 1213Colbie CaillatI Never Told You 1315 Young Artists For Haiti Waving Flag 1416Kelly ClarksonAll IEver Wanted 1514Barenaked LadiesYou Run Away 1610ShinedownIf You Only Knew 1719Adam LambertWhattaya Want From Me 1818HedleyPerfect 1921Bon JoviSuperman Tonight 2017KeshaTik Tok

Qualify to Win a Girlfriend Getaway to Chicago! Listen for the cue to call 3 times a day and enter now at www.mix967.ca!

School bell tower restoration project

Listen Sunday at 2 pm & 8 pm for this week’s hottest songs in Country Music!

This Week Last Week Artist Song Title 12 Carrie Underwood Temporary Home 21Easton CorbinA Little More Country 34Zac Brown BandHighway 20 Ride 46LadyAntebellum American Honey

55Keith UrbanTil Summer Comes Around 67Steven Lee Olsen Make Hay While The Sun Shines 79KennyChesneyAin’t Back Yet 811Joe NicholsGimme That Girl 910One More GirlTumblin’ Tears 103 Blake Shelton & Trace Adkins Hillbilly Bone 1114RascallFlattsUnstoppable 1212Taylor SwiftFearless 138Billy Currington That’s How Country Boys Roll 1422Chris YoungThe Man IWant To Be 1517Steel MagnoliaKeep on Loving You 1616Justin MooreBackwoods 1720George StraightI Gotta Get To You 1818Jason BlaineNumb

1919Alan JacksonIt’s Just That Way 2025George CanyonI Believe in Angels

Tune into Country 92.7 CJSP for Daily News & Weather Updates, Community Events and All Your Favourite Country Music!

Restoring a piece of local history

By Sheila McBrayne

One of the most precious and largest antiques at No Place Like Home Antiques is the building it’s housed in.

When Monica Reynolds became the new owner of School Section #2 Mersea School in 2008 she bought an 80-year-old piece of local history as well. S.S. #2 was built in 1928 and closed as a two-room schoolhouse in the 1960s. The building, at the corner of Jones Side Road and Talbot Trail, served as an antique store for many years under the ownership of the late Gord and Elsie McLellan. The old schoolhouse was transformed into the Playtime Village Day Care for more than 20 years.

No Place Like Home Antiques opened in August 2008 and soon after Monica decided to restore the school’s bell tower. She enlisted the help of Abe Fehr of Double AA Roofing who brought in a crane to remove the bell tower in order to refurbish it. After working on the project over the winter, Double AA Roofing returned in the spring of 2009 to place the restored bell tower to its resting place atop the school.

Inside the store are old pictures of S.S. #2 Mersea as well as written entries from a journal written with references to the school in the 1930s.

Monica also runs No Place Like Home Country Flea Market at 1528 Deer Run Road.

“I wanted to keep the historical aspect of the building. I had the option of just removing the bell tower, but I decided to fix it and keep it,” said Monica. “The only sad part, is the bell is gone. I don’t know where the bell ended up over the years,” she said.

Meghan Agosta Night in Leamington

Saturday, April 3 was Meghan Agosta Night at Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex

TOP LEFT: Thomas, Danica and Jessica DeSantis of Leamington with Meghan Agosta. Jessica brought a picture of herself with Meghan four years ago with her gold medal from Turin, Italy and the 2006 Olympics for Meghan to sign. Parents are Tony and Joanne DeSantis

TOP RIGHT: Triplets Mia, Gioia and Dea DiCiocca with Meghan and her gold medal from the Vancouver 2010 Olympics. The triplets are the daughters of Laura and Tony DiCiocca.

AT RIGHT: Crissie Wright of Leamington brought her Olympic Torch for Meghan to sign. She ran in the Torch Run in Leamington. Pictured from left are Crissie, Meghan and Jade Agosta.

AT LEFT: Roger Lemieux who is a big fan was very happy to meet the local hockey ace.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL7:

Listen to Country 92.7 CJSP for more events happening in Leamington and Essex County during the Community Calendar 6 times daily or visit www.country927.com for a complete listing

Shooter’s Photography Club meeting at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens, 1550 Road 3E, Ruthven, from 7:00 p.m.-9:45 p.m. Program – Pinhole Camera Workshop

- Pinhole cameras to be used at Pinhole Photography Day, April 25th at The Leamington Art Centre. Contact Ann Cotter at 519-733-3266 or anncott@gmail.com. Further details at facebook.com; search Shooter’s Photography Club. Everyone welcome.

THURSDAY, APRIL8:

Storytime at Leamington Library at 10:30 a.m. For ages 3 -5 and caregiver. Register at the library. Alpha Course Dinner, Video and Discussion, exploring the meaning of Christian Faith. 6:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at Meadow Brook Fellowship, 219 Talbot St. E., Leamington. Register by calling Church office at 519326-3605.

Baby Storytime at Leamington Library at 9:15 a.m. For ages 0 - 18 months and caregiver. Register at the library.

FRIDAY, APRIL9:

Rummage Sale at Epworth United Church, Kingsville, from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

The Rusty Blade Hockey Classic, a 3-day international tournament designed for the recreation hockey player, begins today at Kingsville Recreation Complex, 1741 Jasperson Rd., 519-733-2123.

Indoor Yard and Bake Sale at Trinity, 1005 Road 2 West, Kingsville, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Come and find something for your Home Sweet Home.

"Seussical Jr.", presented by Little Tomato Theatre. UMEI Auditorium, 614 Mersea Rd. 6, Leamington. 7:00 p.m. All adult seats $10, children 5 and under $6.00. Call 322-1896 for tickets.

Love cycling, triathlons, running and fitness in general? Don't miss "Athletica Fashionista", ACelebration of Sport Apparel and Gear -- Dinner, Fashion Show, Silent Auction and Sport Expo at the Ciociaro Club of Windsor, 3745 North Talbot Rd., beginning at 6:00 p.m. Guest speaker is Ray Grassi, Paralympic Gold Medalist. Tickets are $30 for adults, $20 for children 12 and under. Proceeds toward maintenance of Ciociaro Club outdoor track facilities and youth/ women's cycling development programs. For ticket information, please call the Ciociaro Club at 519-737-6153.

SATURDAY, APRIL10:

County Classic Chorale is pleased to present "Broadway, Gospel & More ..." at Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. South, Leamington, 8:00 p.m. The programme will feature a variety of Broadway showtunes and Gospel hymns. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students, and can be purchased at Thomson Guardian Pharmacy, 20 Talbot St. E., Leamington, or from all Chorale members. For further information, please call 519-326-5924 or 519-326-3502. Rummage Sale at Epworth United Church, Kingsville, from 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

"Seussical Jr.", presented by Little Tomato Theatre. UMEI Auditorium, 614 Mersea Rd. 6, Leamington. 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. All adult seats $10, children 5 and under $6.00. Call 322-1896 for tickets. When arthritis strikes, we can help you fight back! The Arthritis Society is offering a course to help you deal with your chronic pain. It will be held from 9 am - 12 pm for 6 consecutive Saturdays, at the United Communities Credit Union, 147 Talbot St. N., Essex. The cost is $35. Registration is required, please call 519-965-2561. Don’t want to commit to a 6 week course at a time? Then come to the Chronic Pain Management Workshop on Wednesday, June 9, 2010, 7 pm - 9 pm at the Alzheimer Society of Windsor office, 2135 Richmond St., Windsor. The course is FREE but registration is required. Call 519-965-2561.

SUNDAY, APRIL11:

County Classic Chorale is pleased to present "Broadway, Gospel & More ..." at Knox Presbyterian Church, 58 Erie St. South, Leamington, 3:00 p.m. The programme will feature a variety of Broadway showtunes and Gospel hymns. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students, and can be purchased at Thomson Guardian Pharmacy, 20 Talbot St. E., Leamington, or from all Chorale members. For further information, please call 519-326-5924 or 519-326-3502.

PRIDE Sports Barbeque, hosted by the LGBTIQ Sports Committee. To be held at the Windsor PRIDE Community Education & Research Centre, 442 Pelissier St., Windsor, from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. For more information, please contact Neil Mens at (519)973-4656.

"Seussical Jr.", presented by Little Tomato Theatre. UMEI Auditorium, 614 Mersea Rd. 6, Leamington. 2:00 p.m. All adult seats $10, children 5 and under $6.00. Call 322-1896 for tickets.

MONDAY, APRIL12:

Toddlertime at Leamington Library at 10:30 a.m. For ages 19 months - 2 years old and caregiver. Register at the library.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL14:

“LAERC” - the Leamington Area Ecumenical Refugee Committee will meet at 6:30 pm at Knox Presbyterian Church, Leamington. We are looking and hoping for more Churches & individuals to join our team of welcoming refugees to a safe new home. Can’t attend our monthly meetings? Please help with a financial donation. For further info, please contact Carolyn Reid 519-326-6776.

FRIDAY, APRIL16:

Love Life - Fashion Event, presented by Clothing Bar & Oak Farms at Roma Club, 19 Seacliff Dr., Leamington. Cocktail Party at 6:30 pm with Appetizer Table “Extraordinaire”. “Cat” walk at 7:30 pm, $40/ticket, cash bar. DJ Peppe &In-House Shopping that night. Tickets sold at Clothing Bar &Oak Farms. Proceeds to Heart & Stroke & Zwiers Family Education Fund. Honouring our dear friend Tracy.

SATURDAY, APRIL17:

Annual Comedy Night & Dinner Fundraiser will be held at the Rhine Danube Club. Doors open at 6; Dinner at 7; Show at 9. Tickets $40.00. All proceeds will go to Sun County Crows Lacrosse. Call today to reserve your tickets 519-326-5507.

The Essex County Purple Martin association will meet at 1963 County Rd 42 (just before Woodlands Golf Course & Hwy 401) in Woodslee at 9 am. All are welcome. Refreshments. For more into please call 519-776-5777. Leamington-Mersea Historical Society 1950’s/’60’s/’70’s Sock Hop Fundraiser for the Restoration of the Michigan Central Railway Station, MCR Dr., Leamington, 7:30 – 11:30 pm, Kinsmen Complex. For tickets call Bill Sherk 322-1551 or Scott Holland 326-0533. Cost: $10 per person.

SATURDAY, APRIL24:

Beth Moore live via satellite, 10 am - 4 pm at Meadow Brook Fellowship, 219 Talbot St. E., Leamington. “Kiss your insecurities goodbye and discover the joy of living with confidence!”. Tickets available at Meadow Brook Fellowship office 519-326-3605 or Cameron’s (Windsor) 519-972-9125. Cost is $30 for entire day. Final ticket sales April 20.

SUNDAY, APRIL25:

Silent Walk & VIgil. Meet at the South Point Community Church, 55ATalbot St. W. (next to Gabriele’s)in Leamington at 3:15 pm. Walk beegins at 3:30 pm to Leamington District Memorial Hospital to express concern for abortion. Rain or shine. Inquiries: Leamington Area Right to Life 519-325-0929.

The Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) mobile canner is making its way through Leamington again. This will be the 12th year of meat canning in Leamington and the committee is planning to can approximately 30,000 pounds of turkey. The turkey will be sent to countries in need.

The HJ Heinz Grading Station on Sherk Street will again be the site for this event, which will run from April 19-22.

The mobile canner has been in operation in the United States since 1946 and in Canada since 1997.

The Meat Canner Leamington committee is made up of local churches, which include Catholic, Latter Day Saints, Lutheran, Mennonite, Pentecostal and United churches. The project is completely funded by donations from local individuals and businesses.

Qualified canner operators supervise 500 volunteers from over 30 different churches and high schools in Essex and Kent counties as they stir, put the turkey meat into cans, wash and hand-label the finished cans.

Turkey meat is a high source of protein, which is a missing component in so many diets overseas.

Last year, MCC canned meat was sent to North Korea. At press time, the committee was still unsure as to where this year’s cans will be going.

More opportunities for people with disabilities

By Fred Groves

Sandy Foster and Dave Schopf are disabled.

But don’t tell them they can’t work. Both are employed in Leamington and recently, both received awards of recognition by the Leap for the Best program. The local employment accessibility partner, in conjunction with Business Takes Action, is ensuring more and more people with disabilities are being employed.

Schopf has been working at McDonald’s in Leamington for three years as the ‘Lot and Lobby’ person. He does a great job keeping the restaurant neat and tidy and owner Andy Bukovac is pleased to have him on his staff.

As described by Marg Bryant of the Leap for the Best program, there are both visible and non-visible people with disabilities in the workplace.

Foster has been working at Quizno’s sub shop in Leamington for about four years. She has a learning disability which is considered a non-visible disability. The 22-year-old mother is an honors graduate from Western Secondary School and she likes to write.

“We needed to hire a day person for a few hours. She was with the Job Connect program,” said Quizno’s owner Louise Saad. “In the interview, she did better than the rest.”

Foster is a customer service representative and admits that at times she has a little trouble understanding what is required of her. However, Saad has trained her managers to be a little more patient with her.

When she went looking for employment, Foster said having a learning disability was not the biggest challenge facing her. “It was more of a barrier because there were no jobs,” she said.

The Accessibility Standards for Customer Service came into force on January 1, 2008 and by January 1, 2012 private business and non-profit organizations will have to comply with 11 regulations. While these do not specifically include hiring disabled people, it does require businesses like Quizno’s to, among other things, communicate with a person who has a disability in a manner that takes into account their disability.

“The government is educating businesses throughout the province so they can start thinking about it now,” said Bryant.

“We are changing how society views people with disabilities.”

Leamington Horticultural Society will celebrate 60 years

Letter to the Editor:

2010 is the 60th anniversary of the Leamington Horticultural Society. As part of our celebrations we are undertaking the ambitious project of developing an archive of the history of our society. We are asking all former members or their descendants, as well as our current members, for the loan of any documents or pictures that pertain to our society. We would welcome oral histories as well.

If you can be of assistance to us, please contact me at lsmith49@cogeco.ca or by mail at 46 Danforth Ave., Leamington, N8H 2P7.

There will be a summer picnic celebration in June and tickets will be available soon. You can request tickets from me or from any member of the society.

If you are walking about town in the coming weeks, have a peek at the street planters. The tulips are coming up!

Beth Smith, Vice-President

Reid Funeral Home

Have a story idea?

E-mail us at sun@mnsi.net or call 519-825-4541

FRIDAY, APRIL 16• 9 am - 8 pm

SATURDAY, APRIL 17• 9 am - 5 pm Bring in this ad to

It’s a dog’s life

We’ve always heard the saying it’s a dog life. I never could figure out if that was a good thing or a bad thing, I guess that depends on the dog’s circumstance… Anyways, I came across this e-mail, which I thought was a great way to summarize how we can all improve our lives if we just took on the philosophy of a dog. I’ve always said, I want to come back as a lap dog…

Dog Philosophy:

1. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.

2. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

3. When loved ones come home, always run and greet them.

4. When it’s in your best interest, always practice obedience.

5. Let others know when they’ve invaded your territory.

6. Take naps and always stretch before rising.

7. Run, romp and play daily.

8. Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.

9. Be loyal.

10. Never pretend to be something you’re not.

11. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

12. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

13. Delight in the simple joys of a long walk.

14. Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

15. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

16. On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

17. When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

18. No matter how often you are criticized, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout. Run right back and make friends.

Putting the harm in Harmonized Sales Tax

Brian Mulroney, to this day, could not be elected dogcatcher. Our Prime Minister from 1984-1993, we’ve since learned of his suspicious dealings with the unsavory likes of Karlheinz Schrieber in the Airbus scandal, money in suitcases, et al. However, his first snap with the public’s trust occurred 19 years ago with the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax. Combined with the Free Trade Act and Mulroney’s cozy relationship with the U.S., not only did Canadians bomb him out of office, the Progressive Conservative Party was blown to smithereens in the process. Following some babysitting by Kim Campbell until the next election could be held, Jean Chrétien rode on the coattails of disdain for Mulroney, fuelled by the promise to rid the country of the horrid GST. Of course, that never happened. In fact, for all the “evil” dreamed up and unleashed on the Canadians by Mulroney and his Minister of Finance Michael Wilson, subsequent governments continue with these programs. Stephen Harper and his Conservatives were generous enough to reduce the GST from 7% to 6% to 5%

where we stand today. Well, up until July 1st of this summer, then all hell breaks loose. Oh baby! Here comes the HST!

The Harmonized Sales Tax will be born, and you and I will bear its effect. Why we are not protesting at Queen’s Park against Dalton McGreedy and simultaneously doing the same in Ottawa is beyond me. 13% will be levied on goods and services on thousands of exchanges, including on my purchases that are currently exempt to GST. Aside from minor hockey registration, haircuts and grass cutting, here are some of the expenditures that are going to raise the hair on Ontarians’ necks:

• Gasoline is subject to HST in Ontario.

• Heating fuels for Ontario residents will have HST.

• Tobacco in Ontario will have HST applied.

• Fast food items exceeding $4.00 will be taxed HST.

• New houses greater than $400,000 are subject to HST

And so, so, so much more.

The upside of the HST? Hmmm. Billions of new dollars

for the province and federal government to share. Good for them, I guess. The dangled carrot is the job stimulus the new tax purports to create, an estimated 591,000 jobs over the next ten years. Also, it’s considerably easier to empty the pockets of millions of hard working and honest citizens than it is to collect from the MBAs who run business.

The likely downside? People will spend less, some because they will legitimately have less to spend and others in the form of a protest. I also suspect there will be plenty of paperless exchanges in our future, a.k.a. “under the table.” And once more get ready for some sweeping changes in political power as well, not that they will change a darn thing.

S Soouutthhppooiinnt t S Saayyss. . ....

Saturday, March 27 from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. was Earth Hour, a global call to action to turn out the lights for one hour. What steps do you take throughout the year to try to conserve energy?

Location: Downtown Leamington

Joanne Ricci Beautiful Reasons

“Everyday I lower my furnace when I’m not home. I only have lights on in the room I’m in. I try to take quick showers, just enough to keep me clean. During Earth Hour I only had the TV on, all the lights were shut off. I watch everyday how much I use.”

Cheryl Zakoor Jackson’s Fine Gifts

“We monitor our lights and I run around and shut them off behind my teenage daughters, and unplug all the chargers for all their equipment – iPods, cameras, phones, etc.”

Mary Derksen Fancy This Home Decor “I try to keep my heat down. The bulbs are all changed to energy-saving bulbs. Earth Hour is great for one day, but what about the rest of the year? We try to do what we can.”

Melissa Sherman Sherman’s Clothing “I had my home upgraded for energy efficiency. We don’t leave lights on when we’re not in the room – I’m stringent about that. I don’t run my heat very high, and I bike and walk a lot, rather than drive.”

The lights were out, and “a light bulb went off”

E-LETTERS

If you would like to send us a quick e-mail to express your opinion - good, bad or indifferent - e-mail us sun@mnsi.net

Making Leamington more accessible

Dear Editor:

As a blind member of Leamington’s Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC) I’d like to thank you for the very relevant editorial on disability and Rick Hansen. (SUN, March 31).

Much has indeed changed for the better regarding awareness and accessibility for disabled persons. In Leamington we have now several audible crossings of busy streets; equipment at the Sherk fitness centre is marked in braille; wheelchair entry at the library and post office is much easier; and for the most part sidewalks are quickly cleared of snow during the winter.

All this is thanks in no small measure to the efforts of our Committee. I - and I’m sure the rest of our committee - appreciated your reference to businesses and their responsibilities under the AODA. As you may know, in 2012 all businesses providing services to the public will be obliged to become as accessible as is reasonably possible.

Despite efforts by various groups to arouse business awareness of this fastapproaching responsibility, businesses in the Leamington area have shown little interest. A breakfast with speaker arranged back in Feb. had no attendees, and leaflets distributed by the town have brought no response. Your editorial hopefully will be more effective.

In closing, I’d like to say that my wife and I appreciate this new paper in the community. The news and perceptive editorials have been excellent.

John Coggans

8:30 p.m., Saturday, March 23, 2010. I anticipated the moment I had warned my family about, “the hour without power”. At exactly the right moment, I shut down the main breaker in our home for Earth Hour. It wasn’t difficult, and to tell you the truth Mark and I thoroughly enjoyed the peacefulness.

I noted that many of the neighbours (except for the ones who were away) still had lights on. Perhaps they had either forgotten or simply chose not to participate. During this time, Mark and I discussed the possibilities of “powering down” every night for one year. We eventually reminded each other that with three teenagers home for the summer, perhaps we’d settle on a more realistic commitment of one day a week for one year.

The next day I emailed our three kids and asked them if they were willing to support this effort. One rolled eyes at the idea. Another was in total support and shared her Earth Hour moments with me. The third giggled at yet another one of “mother’s bright (or in this case dim) ideas”.

Reality struck me when I shared this story with a good friend. The rebel in him helped me see things from a different point of view. Is this commitment or symbolic hour created to make us proud of ourselves, and realistically, does it really change our daily lifestyle? If not, what’s the sense of it?

If we sleep approximately 8 hours a day that leaves 16 hours when we may use innumerable extra sources of power. Can you gradually cut back a few minutes, maybe an hour? As the days lengthen, so does our natural daylight. Summer is a great time for families to commit to powering down. The outdoors offers the opportunity to be outside barbequing, reading, walking or relaxing. Each activity is “powerless”, but no less powerful in our efforts to truly support many earth hours. I find it ironic that the more electrically energized gadgets we have, the less energetic the human race has become. Statistics reveal that many people are becoming obese, and this study includes our children.

Refocus your energy. Make personal consumption your goal. Whether it is world power or your body’s fuel, if you only use what you need, you will not “gloat” or “bloat”.

EMS Chili Cook-Off

On Sunday, March 28, Essex County EMS held a chili cook off at the Essex Legion Branch 201 in Essex. There were 45 crock pots of chili that entered the cook-off, over 300 people sampling chili, and $1,100 was raised to support COPPs for Charity cop camp, and Camp B.U.C.K.O.

The 1st place winner in the EMS category was Nicola Dicarlo from Essex County EMS, Tecumseh Roadhouse in the corporate category and June Devries in the friends and family category.

EMS would like to thank all of the sponsors who donated and helped make this day a success, a special thank you to the Royal Canadian Legion in Essex Branch 201 for all their work, and the use of the Legion.

Spring Is Upon Us

Thursday, April 1, to Tuesday, April 6, Essex County OPP targeted drivers not wearing their seatbelts, aggressive drivers, and impaired drivers during the Easter long weekend.

Aggressive driving behaviour is a major factor in fatal and serious injury collisions. Police remind drivers to obey the posted speed limit.

Wearing your seatbelt will save your life. A person has a much better chance of surviving a serious collision if they are wearing a seatbelt. “You owe it to yourself, your family and friends to buckle up,” said Insp. Rick DERUS, Detachment Commander of Essex County OPP.

Stolen tires in Essex County

On Wednesday, March 31, Essex OPP responded to a theft in the 2300 block of County Rd. 20 E. Police advised that sometime in the last week unknown suspects stole 6 spare tires from recreational vehicles that were parked in a secure area. Anyone with information is asked to contact Essex OPP at 519-738-3796 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-3477.

On Wednesday March 31, Essex OPP conducted bicycle patrol in Essex, targeting areas which have experienced break and enters, theft, and mischiefs.

Residential Break & Enter in Kingsville

On Wednesday, March 31, around 2 p.m., Kingsville OPP responded to a residential break and enter in the 300 block of County Rd. 34 E. Police advised that unknown suspect(s) stole a saddle bit, halter, water pump and hose. Anyone with information is asked to contact Kingsville OPP at 519-733-2345 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477

Thefts from vehicles in Lakeshore

On Wednesday, March 31, around 5:00 a.m. Lakeshore OPP responded to several thefts from unlocked vehicles in the 200 block of Terra Lou Dr. in Lakeshore. Police advised that the owner confronted two male youths outside the residence. The youths ran from the scene, dropping various stolen items along the way. Essex County OPP ERT and Canine attended the scene and conducted a search with negative results. There were 5 similar thefts from vehicles in the same area. The property stolen was cell phones, GPS, quantity of coins, CDs, iPod converter, and “police” brand sunglasses. Anyone with information is asked to contact Essex County OPP Criminal Investigation Unit at 519-723-2491 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477

Tires removed in Tecumseh

On Wednesday, March 31, around 8 a.m., Tecumseh OPP responded to a theft in the 1700 block of Sylvestre Dr. in Tecumseh. Police advised that sometime overnight unknown suspect(s) removed tires from a 2002 blue Sierra GMC that was parked in the parking lot. The 4 tires were removed and the motor vehicle was up on blocks when the complainant returned in the morning. Police canvassed the area with negative results. Anyone with information is asked to contact Essex County OPP Criminal Investigation Unit at 519-723-2491 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477

Mayor John Adams presents a cheque in the amount of $131,512 on behalf of the Municipality of Leamington to Frank Ricci, chairman of the Communities for Doctors Committee. This is the second installment of the Municipality’s pledge of $657,560 over five years (2008-2012). The installments are considered each year by Council, and if approved in the 2010 budget deliberations currently underway, a third installment would be made next year. The Communities for Doctors Committee has been working in collaboration with Leamington District Memorial Hospital and the Leamington Hospital Foundation and surrounding communities to attract physicians to our area. This year the overall attraction of new physicians has been well received. Over the past few years, physicians have been recruited for internal medicine, two for general surgery, three for the emergency department, one for obstetrics and gynecology, one for psychiatry, and three for family medicine. The Communities for Doctors Committee’s 6th annual Extravaganza is being held Saturday, April 17 at the Roma Club. Tickets can be purchased by calling 519-326-3237. (Sun Photo)

Lunch & Learning

The Windsor-Essex County Senior Games is hosting a lunch and learn at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens on Thursday, May 13. Spring has sprung at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens in Ruthven. With all plants in flourish in the famous greenhouses, take a stroll down the many lanes of green plants and garden decor. After filling out a ballot to win some fabulous door prizes, take a seat, have some lunch and get ready for tips from the pros. Sponsored by Tim Hortons and Colasanti’s, special presentations will give the latest on plants and plant care. Proceeds raised from this event will benefit the Windsor-Essex County Senior Games. Joe Colasanti will explore some of the hot new plants for the upcoming season and will teach the tricks of indoor plant care. St. Clair College’s horticulture technician and co-host of CKLW’s Live and Local Gardening show, Jay Terryberry will share updates on a new way of making yards look great with chemicalfree lawn and garden maintenance.

This year, deadline for purchasing tickets is May 6 and seating is limited. Tickets are $15 and must be prepaid. To secure your seats, tickets are available at Colasanti’s restaurant, Essex Retirees, Leamington and District Half Century Centre and Windsor Parks and Recreation.

Held at FGT

Family Church on Saturday, April 3

10,000 Eggs

800 Participants

50 Volunteers

2 Hours of FUN!

Top tips to make a home green

Awell-planned, high performance home costs less to operate -- and as importantly, high performance is the promise of premium resale value.

Sustainable components include energy-efficient heating, lighting, cooling and water systems, as well as the reduction of

natural resources like wood. Clip this checklist as a preliminary guide for both you and your builder:

Location: Build for lifestyle convenience where you can walk, cycle, or take public transit.

Position: Consider northsouth positioning to maximize use of the sun's energy and heat.

Generate: Install solar panels and generator to offset public energy supply. Add a solar water heater.

Walls: Build with concrete. An award-winning wall system, advanced by Nudura, builds with preassembled forms, each one stacked, reinforced, and then filled with concrete. Once locked together (like Lego) the

system creates a solid, monolithic concrete wall. This method (www.nudura.com) has shown to deliver energy savings of up to 70 percent and delivers a building envelope up to three times more sound resistant, four times more fire resistant, and nine times stronger.

Materials: Premium green choices should

include low- and zeroVOC (volatile organic compound) paints and sealants, plus high-performance windows, roofing and flooring.

Landscaping: Design your gardens for low use of water and pesticides. Plan with drought-resistant native plants, perennial groundcovers, plus flowers and shady canopy trees.

Keep Your Dryer

Running Safe & Smooth

Nowadays, many homeowners are understandably concerned about saving money. In light of the country's economic woes, homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to save money.

Though it's important to save money, it's also important to stay safe, particularly with respect to household appliances. Fortunately, there are ways homeowners can stay safe and save at the same time. Take the household dryer, for instance. The following tips can help a dryer run safely and efficiently.

* Consider metal ducts. Flexible ducts made of plastic or foil can prove very problematic, often sagging and letting lint build up, decreasing efficiency and risking safety in the process. Metal ducts can be flexible but won't sag, leading to less lint build up. What's more, a metal duct can contain a fire better than plastic or foil ducts.

* Clean all around the dryer. Lint does not only build up within the ducts or lint traps, it can also build up in the area surrounding the dryer as well. This includes behind and underneath the dryer, which can be a significant safety hazard if not cleaned regularly.

* Don't ignore the lint screen. Aclean lint screen pays numerous dividends, not the least of which is making a dryer more safe. Clothes also dry faster when the lint screen is clean, meaning the dryer won't run as long and homeowners will save money.

* Wash abnormally stained clothes. Oftentimes, when working in the yard or around the house, a homeowner can spill gasoline or other flammable materials on clothing. If that happens, wash these clothes extra carefully, possibly even more than once, before placing them in the dryer.

Did You Know...

The popular American television show "Home Improvement" ran from 1991 to 1999. It launched the careers of then littleknow actors Tim Allen, Pamela Anderson (who went on to "Baywatch" stardom) and Jonathan Taylor Thomas (the voice of Simba in Disney's "The Lion King"). The show was based on the stand-up comedy of Allen and became a runaway hit. The final episode, which aired on May 25, 1999, was the fourth most-watched series finale, following "Cheers," "The Cosby Show" and "Seinfeld."

Ink cartridges = gift cards for schools

Leamington STAPLES employees Nicki Gleason and J.P. Zina show off the recycle bins at the front of STAPLES used to collect old ink cartridges. The store has a unique program where local schools can register at STAPLES free of charge and they will be the benefactor of the store’s cartridge recycling program. STAPLES donates $1 for every cartridge brought into the store. Last year, five Leamington area schools each received a gift card for $400! Each week the Leamington STAPLES store sends in 6-8 boxes of old cartridges for recycling. The goal is to collect 2 million by Earth Day 2010 (April 22). (Sun Photo)

Electronics recycling program powers up

Ontario Electronic Stewardship (OES) has launched the second phase of an ambitious recycling program, making it easier to safely dispose of used electronics.

The goal of the program is to collect and divert waste electronics from landfills. A network of more than 500 approved collection points across the province allows Ontarians to bring their used, broken or unwanted electronic equipment for responsible reuse or recycling.

With new items being added to the list of accepted electronic waste, Ontarians can now safely recycle 44 electronic devices, such as MP3 players, cameras, telephones, VCR and DVD players and recorders, radios, and more.

For the year starting April 1, 2010, OES plans to collect over 46,000 tonnes of unwanted electronics – that’s enough to fill over 3,100 dump trucks. The year five goal is nearly 85,000 tonnes of waste electronics.

“Nearly four in five Ontario households (78%) have at least one electronic product that is not working or not being used. This program makes recycling easier and encourages consumers and businesses to do what they can to help,” said Carol Hochu, OES Executive Director. “The reason to participate is simple – it helps keep hazardous electronic equipment out of landfills, which leads to a greener, healthier environment.”

Ontarians can now bring their used electronics to a variety of municipal, not-for-profit, retail and other types of depots and special event days. The electronic equipment recycling program is funded by fees paid to OES by manufacturers and importers of electronics in Ontario. Funds are used exclusively to pay for collection, transportation, consolidation, and processing of waste electronics as well as research and consumer education programs to encourage greater electronic equipment recycling.

LOCAL DEPOTS

LEAMINGTON: Staples at 16 Seacliff Dr. E., Leamington. Will accept non-console TVs up to 32 inches. Maximum of three pieces of any TV monitor, CPU or laptop computer each day per customer. No limit on printers and peripherals including keyboards, fax machines, phones, VCR or DVD players, PSAs/Pagers, scanners, drives, cameras and typewriters. Industrial, commercial and institutional materials are not accepted at this site.

KINGSVILLE: Transfer Station 2 Public Drop Off Depot, 2021 County Rd. 31, Albuna Townline, Kingsville. Attendant available to unload vehicles. Handicap accessible. Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Anything electronic will be accepted. Industrial, Commercial and Institutional materials are also accepted at this site. Open to residents of Essex County only.

CRIME STOPPERS

Never give out personal information

The internet has become a wonderful thing. You can search for anything and anywhere, and this provided great assistance to folks to save time travelling around looking for products. You can also place orders on-line for products, and companies try and make it as easy as possible.

But there is also the criminal side to this story. Folks, this is a reminder that your bank, telephone company, credit card company and most other company that you deal with will not call and ask you to verify your information.

If you order something online and provide your credit card information that is one thing, but if you are asked for your credit card information by an unknown person, DO NOT GIVE OUT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION TO ANYONE.

Over the phone or over the internet, remember that if it’s too good to be true you are probably right. Do not fall for the e-mail scams or letter scams. If you are not sure, contact your local police and ask for advice. The police are not always able to prosecute people who are scammers; it may be determined that they could be calling or e-mailing from overseas or from another country. Be very careful who you give your information to.

Putting Tips

Did you know that usually, about a third of your total golf strokes in a round are on the putting green? If you are struggling with putting, try these 3 basic tips:

Golden Years mini golf

By Ralph Butler

A field of 57 met for mini golf on Thursday, April 1. Team 12 – Donna Wiebe, Colleen Pearse, Carolyn Campbell and Cami Keith – shot a 1 under par 239 to win first place.

Second place money went to Team 5 with an even par count by Audrey Knox, Gayle Hyatt and Julia Kos, and to Team 8, Bill Mayville, Jean Sennett and Tom Hyatt.

Third place cash went to Team 3 with a 246, 6 over, by Nancy Hill, Murray Knox and Gerry Wilkinson.

The low rounds included a 70 carded by Bill Mayville, Art Sweet shot 75, and Audrey Knox shot 76. Carolyn Campbell had 77, and Carolyn Daudlin, Iggy Arner, Murray Knox and Gerry Wilkinson all had 78. 79s showed for Laurie Hylton,

Lloyd Honey and Steve Vigh. Even par scores went to Madeline Butler, Tom Hyatt, Darell Gibbons, Julia Kos, Wayne Reid and Doug Vickery.

REC ROUND-UP REC ROUND-UP

Five holes-in-one dropped for Steve Vigh, Bill Mayville, Iggy Arner, Art Sweet and Lloyd Honey. Four fell for Madeline Butler, Audrey Knox and Shirley Thiessen. Three went down for Rose Taylor, Murray Knox, Jean Sennett, Stan Vickery, Wayne Reid, Andy Orsini, Barb Arner and Winnie Moore. A pair of aces fell for Gary Honey, Gerry Wilkinson, Ralph Butler, Darell Gibbons, Eve MacVoy, Tom Bondy, Tom Hyatt, Stu Folster, Laurie Hylton, Colleen Pearse, Carolyn Campbell, Cami Keith, Bill Taylor, Ernie Vendenberg, Doug Bradley, Doug Vickery and Gioanna Day. These players had a single ace: Anne Bondy, Nancy Hill, Gayle Hyatt, Julia Kos, Linda Walsh, Eleanor Wilkinson, Bill Roubos, Kathy Bradley, Pete Daudlin, Milt Taylor, Carolyn Daudlin, Annie Mae Leslie and Carol Hilton.

Cardiac Rehab Maintenance Program: For those people who have experienced heart concerns or heart surgery in the past, the Complex offers a 6-month program where a kinesiologist guides you through an exercise routine to give you peace of mind while you get yourself feeling tip-top.

First Aid Courses: Become certified in Standard First Aid/ CPR “C” and recertification courses. Classes for individuals as well as corporate bookings to have your staff meet WSIB requirements.

Registration for the Spring Session begins on Mon. Apr. 6: The Complex has all sorts of Youth Programs and Adult Programs. Get yourself in motion this spring!

Recreational Adult Swimming and Lane Swims are available on a daily basis so check out the Complex pool schedule and come for an energetic swim in our salt-water pool. What a refreshing work out!

Complex Birthday Parties: Bring the kids for a splashing good time in the pool, or an energetic skate on the ice, followed by a pizza party! Your house stays clean, and the kids LOVE all the fun that a Complex Activity Party offers them.

Complex Weight Room: It’s good to see how many people are using the weight room on a regular basis. The Complex is accessible and features Braille weight room equipment. 7 personal trainers and personal nutrition and wellness coaches to help you reach your goals.

Over 50 Fitness & Aquafitness classes per week: The Complex has a very strong following to all of our classes, as the fitness instructors really give you a good work out and challenge you to reach the next level!

We have something for every...body!

The draw for a beautiful Easter lily was won by Kathy Bradley.

See you on Thursday, April 8 at 9:30 a.m. at Colasanti’s.

Golf Golf Tips... Tips...

1. Grip Pressure: Successful putting requires great feel and touch. Therefore your grip pressure must be soft and relaxed through the whole stroke. If you feel your grip pressure change during your stroke, the stroke will turn into a jab, push or spank at the ball. This results in poor off-target putts. Keep a soft grip pressure to maintain feel and control.

2. Alignment: Try aligning your body slightly “open” (aim slightly to the left for right handed golfers). This allows your trailing hand (right hand for right handers) to follow through down your target line. This will make it much easier to square your putter face and release the putter toward your intended target. Try this to eliminate pushes or pulls.

3. Head Down: Keep your head down through the whole stroke and hold your finish. Most short putts are missed primarily because the person lifts their head up too early. As you keep the head down, try holding the finish, with the clubface facing the target line. This will help you become more consistent with those short putts.

Good luck with your golf game!

For questions and comments email jepp@erieshoresgolf.com

Leamington Branch 84 Legion news

The General Meeting will be held Wednesday, April 7 at 7 p.m. There will also be a special meeting relating to leasing a property for the relocation of the Branch. These are important meetings and support from the members is important. Please make an effort to attend.

There was a small turnout for the dart tournament held March 27. Bill Miihlroth and Albert Harrison placed first. In second place was Bill Hyatt and Jim Simpson, and in third place was Mary Robinson and Tim Nantais.

Winners of fun darts on the 26th were Bill Hills and Mark Ceman.

The results of the Winston and Jean Wales Annual Dart Tournament will be included in the next Legion News.

Twelve children from Branch 84 junior darts participated at the District level on March 27th. The results are as follows:

Seniors Doubles: Courtney Symons and Bryan Torode, 3rd place. Courtney and Bryan will advance to Provincials on May 15th at Br. 60 in Burlington. Seniors Teams: Tyler Symons, Dave Weil, Courtney Symons and Bryan Torode, 3rd place. Our senior team does not advance as only first and second advance to Provincial.

Juniors Doubles: Bethany Torode and Kaden Wille, 3rd place. Juniors Teams: Bethany Torode, Kaden Wille, Kenny Blemings and Kendall Turner, 3rd place. Juniors do not advance to Provincials. A great effort by all and congratulations from Branch 84.

Join us on April 14 for the Senior Social.

Fun darts are held every Friday evening at the Branch – come out and join in the fun.

Our condolences to the family of David Cooper.

Dave was a longtime member and comrade at Branch 84.

General Meeting on April 7 at 7 p.m.; Executive Meeting on April 21 at 7 p.m.

Lakers holding travel baseball tryouts

Attention all 1995 and 1996 baseball players! Leamington Lakers will be holding bantam-age travel baseball tryouts over the next few days. All tryouts will be at the Kinsmen Diamonds on Diamond 7 as follows: Thursday, April 8 at 6:15 p.m.; Saturday, April 10 at 12 noon; Tuesday, April 13 at 6:15 p.m.; Thursday, April 15 at 6:15 p.m.

Anyone interested in trying out for the team is welcome to attend. All outdoor tryouts are subject to the weather and will be cancelled if rain is present. Contact Rick Wright at 519-322-5369 with any questions or concerns.

Final registration for baseball

On Saturday, April 10 the Leamington District Minor Baseball Association (LDMBA) will be conducting its final registration for the 2010 baseball season.

The registration will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the F.T. Sherk Recreation Complex.

LDMBA offers baseball to boys and girls between the ages of 4 to 17 years and is committed to developing the baseball skills of our youth; to promote good sportsmanship; and to enable players to form and maintain positive relationships on and off the field.

Anyone registering after April 10 will be subject to availability and will incur a late fee.

LEAMINGTON DISTRICT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL – 60 Years in the Making

2010 marks the 60th year in operation for Leamington District Memorial Hospital and the hospital plans to mark its “diamond” anniversary in impressive style. The hospital has gone through a number of changes throughout its 60-year history including renovation projects, expansions, adding new services and equipment and more changes are planned for the future.

The most exciting plan for the 2010 year is the construction of the new satellite Dialysis Unit. The unit has been in development for the past few years, but is now in its final planning stages. “We are just waiting on final approval from the Ministry of Health to tender the Dialysis project,” says John Stenger, CEO of LDMH. As exciting as the Dialysis project is, the hospital has also been undergoing a significant transformation as it has implemented its Outlook 2020 plan announced last year. The goal of the plan was to establish a vision for the future for Leamington District Memorial Hospital as it looks forward toward the next decade of health care services for our community.

“Last year we set out an aggressive plan for the future of our hospital,” says John Cervini, Chairman of the Board of Directors, “We wanted to set out a strategy for the future of LDMH and we feel we have put the hospital on a great path that will ensure a more financially sustainable hospital delivering high quality services for our community.”

Some of the accomplishments the hospital has achieved over the past year include:

• Successfully developed and implement an Integrated Intensive Care Unit with Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital, Windsor. This program ensures timely access to ICU beds at HDGH when patients from LDMH need higher levels of care. The program has also implemented new leading practices in critical care ensuring LDMH provides the most up to date services possible.

• Restructured the Inpatient Rehabilitation program and developed a videoconferencing consultation program with Windsor Regional Hospital’s Rehabilitation Program and Specialists. This program ensures greater access to physicians and the specialty rehabilitation program in Windsor.

• Introduced a Physician Assistant into the Emergency Department and developed a Nurse Practitioner fast track model to reduce the Emergency Department length of stay and ensure the needs of all Emergency Department patients are better served.

• The hospital has also recruited a new OB/GYN – Dr. Angelina Chan – and has been renovating an area on the 2nd floor to house the Obestrical Program which will be better consolidated with other medical/surgical services. The new area will be officially occupied in April and will provide newly renovated large labour, delivery, recovery and postpartum rooms.

“While we are still projecting a deficit for the 2009-2010 fiscal year it is much smaller than was originally budgeted,” says John Stenger, “This shows that all the changes that have been made throughout the past year are helping to get the hospital in a more financially stable position.”

Not only has the hospital become more financially stable, it is also ensuring more stability amongst its professional staff including nursing, physicians, pharmacists, physiotherapists and other allied health professional staff.

Southern Footprints Half Marathon

The 3rd Annual Southern Footprints Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk will be held on Sunday, April 18 at Days Inn & Conference Centre Leamington. Proceeds from this event will benefit research work for The Lung Association.

Last year the Half Marathon and 5 km run/walk was a huge success and this year, the number of participants is already growing, and organizers anticipate welcoming some serious as well as recreational runners and walkers from all parts of Ontario and other provinces.

“This fun event was made possible due to the incredible support of our sponsors, our many dedicated volunteers and the local community,” said Denise Gaffan, Event Coordinator.

The Half Marathon will take runners on a fast and flat race from the grounds of the Days Inn into the natural beauty of a Carolinian forest and ecosystem at Point Pelee National Park, and back. A new course has been established to highlight the beauty of the park and the natural scenery it entails.

The 5K Run/Walk will follow a separate scenic route along the shores of Lake Erie and the countryside. A scrumptious buffet brunch will await all participants and sponsors on race day, courtesy of Days Inn chefs. The day begins at 8 a.m. with registration at Days Inn.

Dr. Angelina Chan looks over the new Obstetrical Unit located on the second floor expected to open in early April.

The hospital has been working collaboratively with the Leamington & Area Family Health Team (FHT), the Community for Doctors – physician recruitment committee and the municipalities to recruit physicians to the hospital and community. In the past few years the hospital has recruited

2 new General Surgeons – including Dr. Susanne Tracy and Dr. Ejaz Ghumman; Internal Medicine Specialists – Dr. Nashwan Naom and Dr. Basel Tawil; Family Physicians – Dr. Roberto Gonzalez and Dr. Atif Chowdry; ER Physicians – Dr. Ninos Yacoub, Dr. Sherapartap Rai, Dr. Ahmed Swedan, and are pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Khaldid Alazhari, an ER physician that will be joining the hospital staff in April 2010.

“We are very proud of the rich history this hospital has in providing high quality services to our community throughout the past sixty years,” notes John Cervini. “We have positioned our hospital to meet the ever changing health care needs of our community both now and in the future.”

Throughout the past 60 years, LDMH has seen many changes. We have always benefited from the strong support of the Leamington, Kingsville, Wheatley and South Essex communities. Together we look forward to creating a strong hospital serving the healthcare needs of our communities.

Thank You for 60 Years! Looking Forward To Many More!

Freddy’s is open for another season

For the weeks beginning the first of April and running through to the Labour Day weekend, the Southpoint Sun will offer our “DINING OUT IN SOUTHPOINT” – a special column to provide you with more information about the wonderful restaurants and eateries in our region.

Our dining out adventure started at FREDDY’S. As soon as we saw the signs announcing Freddy’s opening for the season we headed down to see Mike, Rob and the staff for some of our Freddy’s favourites. Of course we started with some of their famous hummus and Greek bread – a great starter or snack for any occasion. I moved on to another house specialty, the house gyro’s, and my dining partner had their homemade Maria burger. Freddy’s boasts many house specialties including some great Lebanese offerings like kafta and falafel wraps, taboulhi and baba ghanoush. They

also boast great ribs, steaks and of course local favourites –perch and pickerel.

Mike has made a few changes to this year’s menu including adding more fish – paying homage to the great view of the lake. He’s adding a new seared tuna appetizer and a barramundi fish special that sold out the first week it was on the menu.

Many of us have also enjoyed a few beverages down at Freddy’s throughout the summer and of course the restaurant has a variety of beer on tap and in the bottle, and the wine list boasts local wines including selections from Pelee Island Winery, Alexander and Sprucewood. We tried a new addition to the wine list – the Pelee Island Shiraz, which we greatly enjoyed.

And of course Freddy’s isn’t just about the food and beverage, they also plan many great events and have one of the best patios on the lake! Mike is planning on having a few special events including wine tasting, jazz bands and some other local bands and talent throughout the summer. If you have never been to Freddy’s you need to take the trip down Point Pelee Drive heading toward the Park, you’ll see Freddy’s just on your left. Stop in – you’ll be glad you did!

We plan to visit as many Leamington and area restaurants by Labour Day. So don’t be surprised if we ask you to smile for the camera as you bring our food. We look forward to many more great meals and meeting the great people who cook, serve and own these fine establishments.

Mike Makhlouf and Nellie Makhlouf served up our entrees of Freddy’s favourites - gyros and the Maria burger with sweet potatoe fries. Brother Rob was in the kitchen doing what he does best- cooking.

15th annual Leamington Police Law Enforcement Torch Run Hockey Challenge

Cardinal Carter corner

It was an exciting week for students at Cardinal Carter. Three students from the grade 9 enriched science course participated in the Windsor Regional Science, Technology and Engineering Fair the weekend of March 27 at the University of Windsor. Anthony Thachuk and Matteo Del Brocco were awarded a Gold Medal for their project entitled “Pump up the Jam – How Music Tempo Affects Activity Levels in Hamsters”. Grace Enns also received a Gold Medal for her project entitled “Is Cucumber Plant Growth Affected By Carbon Dioxide and Oxygen?”. In addition, Grace received the Greater Windsor Horticultural Society Award, the University of Windsor Department of Earth Sciences Award, and the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board Award. In recognition of her achievements, Grace was chosen to represent our region at the CanadaWide Science Fair in Peterborough in May. Congratulations to Grace, Matteo and Anthony for their outstanding efforts. Congratulations is also extended to grade 9 enriched math student Nicole Ricci, who has been selected by the University of Waterloo to attend the “Think About Math” conference at the end of April. The conference is designed for grade 9 girls with strong potential in mathematics, and will focus on mathematics-related career paths.

In Arts news, the Cardinal Carter Dance Team, consisting of 12 female dancers, had an impressive showing at Dancefest, held at Bluevale Collegiate in Waterloo. Fifteen schools participated in the competition and the CC team received one first, two second, and one third-place finish for the four dances entered. We are proud of the Dance Team’s excellent effort!

What else are we up to at Cardinal Carter?

Student council members played Easter Bunny to a group of grade 1 and 2 students from Queen of Peace elementary school on March 31, during Cardinal Carter’s second annual Easter Egg Hunt. The young students were entertained with a brief assembly followed by an egg hunt around the track. An indoor Easter Scavenger Hunt was also enjoyed by 22 of Cardinal Carter’s Life Skills students. Students studying civics with Mrs. Logan and Mr. Antonuzzo welcomed local politician Nelson Santos as a guest speaker on March 31. The students had their civics lessons come to life as Mr. Santos spoke about his role in municipal politics and his interest in pursuing politics at the federal level.

Cardinal Carter teacher Colin Lesperance will be holding a session of the Essex County Basketball Development Program Mondays from April 12 to May 31 at Queen of Peace Elementary school for students in grades 3-8. The registration fee of $70 includes instruction, drills, t-shirt and prizes. A donation on behalf of the program will be made to the Cancer Clinic at Windsor-Regional Hospital. To register, call Cardinal Carter at 322-2804.

OBITUARY NOTICE

EVA DEBERGH

Eva Debergh, 92 years, passed away Thursday, April 1, 2010 at Leamington District Memorial Hospital.

Louis A. Molner

Beloved wife of Engel for 70 years (May 4, 2010). Dear mother of Yvonne Friesen (Walter), Diane Isley (Joe), Patti Adamson (Rick). Predeceased by infant son Albert (1941). Loving grandmother of Dwayne and Michele Friesen, Bryon and Jen Friesen, Kent Friesen and Keri Closson, Christine and Mark Geauvreau, David and Sharon Isley, Jason Adamson, Nikki and Justin Gagnon, and great-grandmother of Jazlyn, Jakobie, Keilty, Vaughn, Quinn, Mya, Alysha, Ryan, Joshua, Tristan and Jaylyn. Dear sister of the late Mary Foulon, Marcel Vershaeve and late stepsister Jean Collins.

“We shall not forget her soft, sweet, quiet manner. She put her family and others first. She has left us with a lifetime of memories which will always keep her with us.”

Visiting at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-3262631), on Sunday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. C.W.L. and Parish Prayers were Sunday at 3 p.m.

Funeral Mass to celebrate Eva’s life was held from St. Joseph’s Church, 310 Sherk Street, Leamington, on Monday, April 5, 2010 at 11 a.m. Fr. Pat Fuerth officiating. Interment Erie Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Ladies Auxiliary of the Sun Parlor Home. Friends may send condolences at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.

Lou Molner lived 87 years. He passed away peacefully at Leamington District Memorial Hospital with his niece, Brenda Molnar of Wheatley, and close friends by his side.

Father of John and his wife Linda of Yellowknife. Predeceased by the love of his life for 45 years, Rita Ann (LaBine, 2001), brother and close friend George Molnar (2006), two sisters, Mary Knaus (1975) and Irene Sipocz (2004), and his younger brother Joseph Molnar (abt 1972).

Lou was born in Brantford, Ontario, on August 9, 1922, the son of Ignace and Teresa (Menle) who came to Canada from Hungary. He was brought up during the Great Depression of the thirties. Lou started school not speaking the English language but was a quick learner. His talent for learning continued throughout his life, though he always said his real education started in August 1942 when he joined the R.C.A.F.

Lou received his commission as Pilot Officer in His Majesty’s service. He completed a tour of 30 trips as a bomb-aimer on #101 Squadron, Ludford Magna, Lincolnshire. Lou had a passion for golf and played his first Canadian Open in 1942 at the ripe age of twenty. His played his last round at the age of 86.

A special thank you to his close friend and companion Wally Newland, who visited and called Lou daily to trade stories and wartime ditties; to Linda Niehus, “our guardian angel”, for her generous help, support and kabitzing; to his longtime friend from Toronto, Andy Patrick, who kept Lou up to date with all the news; and to all of our dear friends who Lou came to know in the area over the short time he lived in Wheatley. An additional thank you goes out to our community, Hammond Funeral Home, CCAC and VON, and doctor’s and staff at the hospital.

Lou was an Event! He impacted people. His life force will live on through his relatives, friends, and people he touched along the way.

Lou was known for his indomitable spirit and his love for laughter which sustained him to the end of his long life. Cremation has taken place. A Legion Service to celebrate Lou’s life will be held on Saturday, April 10th, at 11 a.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #324, Erie St. N, Wheatley. Throughout his life Lou valued friendship and his wishes are that in lieu of donations you instead - Take A Friend To Lunch.

Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, champagne in one hand- strawberries and chocolate in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming

“WOOHOO – What a Ride!”

Canadian Cancer Society

Essex County

Thanks to YOU - our donors and volunteers.

Last year YOU made a difference in our local community :

Transportation Program: provided 6,544 rides (167,000 kms) tolocal clients to their cancer-related appointments by 50 local volunteer drivers; and provided transportation assistance for 1,102 cancer-related trips to London, Hamilton and Toronto for local people and/or families with a child being treated for cancer.

Peer Support: 26 local Peer Supportvolunteers provided information and encouragement for 121 people from here in Essex County and across Canada who wanted to talk to someone who knows from personal experience what it’s like to have cancer.

Research Funding: helping to save lives, the Canadian Cancer Society continues to make significant progress in the fight against cancer by funding: $49 million in internationally recognized cancer research across the country, including over $1 million in new research funding and 46 ongoing clinical trials (including: brain, breast, colorectal, head and neck, kidney, leukemia, lung, lymphoma, ovarian, prostate and uterine) in Southwestern Ontario.

Regional Cancer Centre Support:120 local volunteers in their bright yellow jackets provided over 11,300 hours of practical help and support for people receiving treatment at the local Regional Cancer Programs.

2 in 5 Canadians will develop some form of cancer in their lifetime. You can help them win by volunteering, donating or getting informed. With one small act, you can make today the day you help fight for life.

Reliable Information: provided to thousands of local people through Cancer Information Service, Smokers’ Helpline, www.cancer.ca, written materials and local presentations; multi-lingual materials and interpreter services also help people understand their cancer diagnosis in their own language.

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Rod Clark, Essex Volunteer Driver (conversation with a passenger) “I had never had much seriously wrong with me, health-wise. Well, then, guess what...I got cancer and it was a big shock for me,” said one of Rod’s Society passengers. “I had to come into the cancer center for the first time and I have to admit, I was scared. But then, I was met at the door by a smiling Canadian Cancer Society lady in a yellow smock who welcomed me so friendly like...just as if she knew how I felt and she reassured me that everything was ready for me and that it was all going to work out just fine.” Then, the passenger turned and looked at me, "Yah, and you guys too. I miss my Cadillac but your Chev gives a fair ride. Thanks" I left him at the entrance and he went striding through the door-way as if he had just bought the place. He knew that a warm welcome awaited him inside and that he would be greeted by name and that would make him feel even better.

Making a difference in the lives of people living with cancer in Windsor & Essex County, and across the Country!

Carol Smith, Breast Cancer Survivor,Volunteer I was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a mastectomy in March, 2008. A woman at my church who had gone through breast cancer told me about the Canadian Cancer Society volunteers who provide sewing services and volunteer at the local regional cancer centre. She told me about how they would sew pockets into my bras (free of charge) so a prosthesis could then be inserted into them. When I met with the Canadian Cancer Society sewers, I was given a fibrefill prosthesis which they had sewn also. I wore it more than my professional one! After having a mastectomy, it was so nice to look normal in clothes again. The Canadian Cancer Society volunteer sewers along with the volunteers in bright yellow jackets at the regional cancer centre were a positive part of my breast cancer journey!

LIFE is what we do! Thank You for working with us to: Save Lives, Improve Quality of Life, Celebrate Life and Fight Back!

Life in the fast lane

I filled up my windshield washer fluid the other day. Not because of the elements. Not because I was going off-road, although that would be fun. No, I made sure I filled up my washer fluid to the tippy-top because I have found this is a fantastic way to get someone off my tail.

I understand that if you want to pass a person because they are seriously going a snail’s pace, by all means pass. But if some bozo roars right up behind me and is on my bumper and I am already doing the speed limit (and then some), well they are going to get my off-spray – plain and simple. Besides the usual washer nozzles, my car comes equipped with extra ones that, with a flick of a switch, extend out below my

headlights. Almost like James Bond’s Aston Martin would have, except his shot out machine gun bullets and mine just shoots blue liquid over my hood and roof, if I so choose. It’s perfect. What a better, more friendly way to say, “Um, excuse me but would you mind BACKING OFF?”

I would like us all to think about this the next time we are following someone close enough that we can smell the garlic they had for lunch... are we really in that big of a rush to get where we’re going? Your wife is in labour? Okay, no problem. Let me wave you on. Your son is late for soccer? Well it’s a good lesson for him isn’t it? (The lesson is that he needs to get off his Wii faster and get ready for practice, not that it’s okay that mom or dad puts everyone in jeopardy by speeding like a cheetah on caffeine.) Is it work that you are off to? I always wonder why the heck people are in such a hurry for work. It’s WORK.

Is it a competition thing? That we just cannot fathom the thought of someone being eternally in front of us? I think for some it might be, since I have seen umpteen people pass me and then slow down and not get any further. Are we so afraid of not being in the lead? Unfortunately, we are living in a world where we have to ‘get ahead’, ‘climb the ladder’ and be at the ‘top of our game’. Maybe the fact that we are moving too fast in everything that we do in life should be a warning signal. In my opinion, everything should be at the

Financial aid to students increased

Chatham-Kent-Essex MPP Pat Hoy says college and university students will be getting greater access to financial aid and more flexibility on loan repayments, as part of the government’s five-year Open Ontario plan to create new opportunities for jobs and growth.

“Today’s students are the builders, dreamers and innovators who will lead Ontario into the future,” said Hoy.

Ontario is modernizing the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) and making changes to other financial supports. The changes will benefit students by:

• Providing more assistance for tuition, living costs, books, supplies and equipment.

• Allowing students to keep more of the money they earn from part-time jobs.

• Providing a no-interest period on student loans for six months after graduation.

• Introducing 1,000 new graduate scholarships.

• Providing additional support for married students and students with children.

• Introducing a new grant for part-time students.

• Offering students more flexibility on repayment.

same pace as a game of Scrabble with your grandma – slow, methodical and, okay... yes, a little frustrating.

Keri Keri with a “K” with a “K”

I am not saying be late for work or for that meeting with a friend, but driving like you don’t know HOW to drive is irresponsible. Waking up 5 minutes earlier so you aren’t rushing out the door is the responsible thing to do. Let’s face it, you will always get where you’re going, but in the meantime you’ve missed the scenery (and most likely those people who gave you the one finger salute along the way).

So how about we all just slow down and step back... especially from my car.

RENT SERVICES

Two bedroom apartments in Wheatley. Phone 519-3268259. tf

Available in Wheatley: upper one bedroom apartment with den, $500 per month plus hydro. Also 1 bedroom apartment in 4-plex $495 per month, all inclusive. First & last month and references required. 519-322-5567. tf Large 2 bedroom apartment with living room and family room, redone with new kitchen and bath, $650 per month plus utilities. Deposit required. Call 519-326-9261. tf

Upper one bedroom apartment close to town and Superstore. $395 per month plus utilities. Call 519-3225567. tf

SELF STORAGE

SELFSTORAGE - Inside and outside storage, 24 hour access and security. Asize for every need. Pay for 6 months, get 1 month FREE. 16 First Concession Line, Wheatley 519-791-1464. 12-21

T.O.P.S. - Take Off Pounds

Sensibly. Group meets every Monday 6 p.m. at Wheatley United Church. Call Elaine at 519-825-7993 or visit website: www.TOPS.org. Everyone welcome. tf

RENOVATIONS:

Eavestroughing, decks, siding, windows, complete renovations, Gutter Cleaning Systems, furniture refinishing. Call Bill Siddall 519-8253931 tf

ELECTROLUX SALES & SERVICE: Complete line of vacuums and shampooers/ floor polishers. Will provide free estimate on Central Vac installations. Contact Dan Bailey. 519-825-7698. tf

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

HOME REPAIRS

Larry’s Home Repairs: renovations, flooring, drywall, painting, plumbing, electrical, decks powered washed and sealed, 30 years experience. 519-326-2770. mar24-ap7

COMING EVENTS

ASHOWFORTHE WHOLEFAMILY - Little Tomato Theatre presents “Seussical The Musical” at UMEI Auditorium, April 9-11. Call 519-322-1896 for tickets. Cost is $10/ticket. mar10-ap7

Rational CPC102 ClimaPlus Combi Oven (electric), QTE probe, 10 stainless steel shelves, 10 perforated baking sheets, self cleaning, dry steam cooking. Call 519796-6322. mar24-ap14

Dining room suite, 9 pc includes buffet, solid wood. Asking $500. Call 825-7138. ap7-ap14

Colorado Spruce Trees, 18” tall, in 2 gal pots, $5 each. 519-322-2491. ap7-ap14

BABYSITTING

Full-time experienced babysitter available any shift. 519-563-7553 ap7

HELPWANTED

Needed! 130 Erie St. N., Leamington, ON N8H 3A2, 519-326-3740. Must have smart serve. Drop off resume or email to info@rhinedanubeclub.com ap7-14

STUDENT

HELPWANTED

Student Summer Employment

Please send resume by April 19 to: Wheatley Harbour Authority P.O. Box 610 Wheatley, ON N0P2P0.

Interviews to be conducted Sat. April 24 at Harbour Office, 21 Kay Ave. ap7-14

LIVING ESTATE AUCTION

ROYAL DOULTON, CRYSTAL, CHINA, SILVER, DIAMOND JEWELLERY, ART, PERSIAN RUGS

SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 1 PM THE VERDI CLUB

89 TEXAS RD, AMHERSTBURG

From the living estates of T. Sloan and S. Krevchik(with suitable additions) we are pleased to offer a large collection of Royal Doulton figurines (over 40) – all discontinued including rare Lady & Unicorn (lim. ed. of 300), The Broken Lance, St. George, Charlie Chaplin, Pearly Boy & Girl, Old Mother Hubbard, Votes For Women, Shore Leave, The Potter, The Wizard, Meditation, The Centurian, Cavalier, Mask Seller, Teatime, Eventide, Lambing Time, and several others, as well as toby jugs including Bonnie Prince Charlie, The Sleuth and others, over 20 pieces of lead crystal including large cookie jar, decanters, stemware, COMPLETE AYNSLEY CHINA TABLEWARE (Princelea pattern) including several serving pcs, estate glassware including Hummel figurines, antique cruet set with silver holder, silver tea set, estate jewellery: fabulous signed Tiffany 14K gold necklace, bracelet and earrings in original Tiffany boxes, beautiful custom designed black onyx and baguette diamond bangle bracelet, 14K diamond solitaire 1.55 cts, custom designed 14K ruby and diamond bracelet, 14K blue/green diamond stud earrings 1.29 cts, cabuchon star sapphire pendant 12.30 cts, gorgeous hand woven 14K rose gold hand carved cameo necklace appr. $ 12,350; (partial list only!), handknotted Persian rugs including outstanding Qum silk square rug 4 x 4 with “Eye of Mohammed” intricate design, Qum silk “tree of life” pattern 5 x 3, wonderful Qum silk 300 line room size (cream background), fine very large wool carpet. Artist signed limited edition prints by Norman Brown, Allan Darling, John Joy, Jake Vandenbrink and others. Large limited edition Tom Thomson, A.J. Casson and others. On view 12 PM. Catalogues free at the door. Buyers fee 10%. AUCTIONEER JIM HALL 519-332-6111

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20

Don't be too worried about what's going on with others, Aries. Focus on your own needs for the next several weeks. You will expend energy but meet some goals.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21

Gather information from reliable sources, Taurus, before you jump to make a big decision. This is not a good time for you to do any shopping. Keep your money locked away.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21

Sometimes the insignificant people in your life turn out to be much more important than you had first thought, Gemini. Therefore, treat everyone you meet this week with respect.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22

Don't diplay a know-it-all attitude, Cancer. Instead of just pretending to listen, keep your lips sealed and your ears open. You just may learn something.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23

Lighten up, Leo. You're taking what someone says way too literally. Learn to laugh at yourself and you could make a few new friends in the process.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you don't have to trick someone into going along with your plan this week. Just be honest and play your hand the right way, and you'll have plenty of volunteers.

LIBRA- Sept 23/Oct 23

This week all of your emotions are showing in black and white on your face, Libra. It will be difficult to hide any of your emotions, so don't even try. Show your vulnerability.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22

Don't forget something important you need to get done this week, Scorpio. Set reminders, tie a string around your finger, or leave notes around the house.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21

This may be a fun week for you, Sagittarius. You can have

fun in just about anyway with the good spirits you've been displaying. Grab the opportunity for an adventure.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20

Be careful what you wish for, Capricorn. Desiring change may bring a lot of changes you didn't count on this week. You'd better get used to routine instead.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18

This week you stumble on something that is much bigger and more involved than you may have expected, Aquarius. Be firm in your decision making.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20

Everyone wants a piece of you this week, Pisces. The trouble is there isn't that much of you to go around. Balance is key.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

APRIL4 - Robert Downey, Jr., Actor (45)

APRIL5 - Colin Powell, General (73)

APRIL6 - Paul Rudd, Actor (41)

APRIL7 - Russell Crowe, Actor (46)

APRIL8 - Patricia Arquette, Actress 42)

APRIL9 - Kristen Stewart, Actress (20)

APRIL10 - Mandy Moore, Actress/Singer (26)