Southpoint Sun February 13, 2013

Leamington soccer clubs willing to foot half the bill for a field house

By Bill Chaplin, Municipal Correspondent

Monday, February 11, Leamington Municipal Council gave permission to include the cost of constructing a field house at the soccer complex in the capital budget for deliberation at budget time after a convincing presentation by representatives of Leamington soccer clubs, which included footing half the bill.

A report on the subject prepared by the Director of Community and Social Services, Rob Sharon, emphasized that the construction of the field house would cost in the neighbourhood of $600,000. It would then have ongoing annual operating costs of about $17,500.

The presentation made by four representatives of soccer in Leamington.

Leamington Minor Soccer

President Tony Omar, Vice President Bob Rumble, Leamington SC United President Dan Santos, and Leamington SC United

Treasurer Joe Oswald told Council that they would not only cover half of the construction cost ($300,000), but that they had the commitment for the money now. If approved for the 2013 year, the Minor Soccer Association and their competitive branch, Leamington SC United, could upfront the $300,000, this in addition to their on-going commitment to raise $500,000 for soccer in the municipality.

Minor soccer in Leamington has grown exponentially since the creation of the soccer complex at the southwest corner of Road 12 and Road 2. This year, it is expected that upwards of 850 youth will participate either in the Minor Soccer Association house league, or the Leamington SC United competitive travel teams.

Mr. Omar was quick to point out, “Our fee [to play] has not increased in 3 years, and is not increasing this year... We’re not raising money on the backs of the players or their families.” Through pursuing Trillium grants from the Province and securing private sponsorships, the Minor Soccer Association has been able to pump improvements into the complex year after year, while still keeping soccer the most affordable organized sport for youth in this area.

Councillor Larry Verbeke commented, “This is a no brainer,” when he realized that the municipality could spend 50¢ on the dollar on this park project as opposed to footing 100% of the cost for any other park project next year.

The representatives who made the offer to Municipal Council were reminded by Councillor Rick Atkin that at budget time, “Council is going to have to make some tough decisions.” He explained that they would have his total support to put it on the budget for debate, but that they must be aware that there may be “stronger arguments for greater needs than yours” at budget time.

LFS holds first induction ceremony

By Bryan Jessop

A new tradition has begun for the Leamington Fire

Services.

Jordan Stubbert was officially sworn in as the LFS’s 28th current regular firefighter and is the first ever in Leamington to be honoured with a ceremony commemorating the accomplishment. Born and raised in Leamington, Stubbert completed his one-year probationary period to become a regular part-time firefighter on Wednesday, Jan. 9. The ceremony, attended by Stubbert’s family members, girlfriend and fellow firefighters, was held at the Clark Street fire hall on Monday, Feb. 4.

“It’s a big part of my life now,” said Stubbert. “I’m very excited about the whole thing.”

The process in becoming a regular firefighter began with passing a physical test that in turn led to an interview based on a points system. From there, Stubbert was short listed for what was a year-and-a-half in his case before probation began. Through the year of probation, he was on call, on duty for one week per month. He was sent out on numerous calls, taking on duties such as perimeter lighting during evening and nighttime assignments.

Prior to becoming a firefighter, Stubbert was equipped with CPR and First Aid training and in April of this year, will attend a one-week course at the fire college in Gravenhurst.

The 27-year-old first developed an interest in the career after hearing about the job from a couple friends who had been working as firefighters.

Stubbert was sworn in by LFS chief Chuck Parsons and was presented with his badge by Leamington director of development services Tracey Pillon-Abbs. From there, Stubbert was presented with his Squad 1 epaulettes by Fire Captain John Hammond. Stubbert was then presented with a black firefighting helmet, signifying his transfer from probationary status (during which time he wore a yellow helmet) to a regular firefighter

Parsons explained that he was inspired to introduce the ceremony to the LFS after seeing similar traditions practiced at departments across North America, including neighbouring Kingsville.

“It adds pride to the department as well as the community,” Parsons said. “It’s nice to add a bit of tradition to the department.”

The next such ceremony at the Leamington Fire Services hall will take place in either January or February of next year.

Merle Derbyshire celebrates 107th birthday

By Bryan Jessop

A Wheatley-born woman’s secret to longevity isn’t really a secret.

Merle Derbyshire (nee Dawson), born Feb. 7, 1906 in Romney Township, celebrated being 107 years young at her current Leamington Mennonite Home residence with family, friends, neighbours and even a political dignitary.

Accustomed to questions regarding how she has managed to live well beyond 100 years, Derbyshire offers a straightforward response.

“All I can say is the Lord’s been good to me,” she said. “I didn’t do it on my own, that’s for sure.”

Derbyshire was born on the same day as Soviet aircraft designer Oleg Antonov and Aisin Gioro Puyi, China’s last emperor. So far, she has outlived the two by 29 and 46 years, respectively.

“I just live one day at a time,” said Derbyshire, who continues to enjoy listening to music, doing crossword puzzles and taking part in resident sing-a-longs at Leamington Mennonite Home.

Raised by parents Cyrus Harry Dawson and Fanny Mae Dawson (nee Pickle), Derbyshire was raised in a devout religious family who attended Wheatley Baptist Church on a regular basis.

“It was easy. The church was just across from our house,” Derbyshire noted.

“Mom was strict. Good, but strict.”

Derbyshire is one of five centenarians living at Leamington Mennonite Home, where she holds the title as

oldest-ever resident in the facility’s 49-year history.

On her birthday, she was visited by Chatham-KentEssex MPP Rick Nicholls, who presented her with a special certificate on behalf of Queen’s Park. She is the oldest individual to whom Nicholls has ever presented with the certificate.

Derbyshire has attended LMH for the past 14 years and was honoured with a grand celebration for her 100th birthday seven years ago. This year’s birthday will be celebrated this week, along with other Februaryborn residents of the home.

Leamington Mennonite Home administrator Linda Tiessen explained that Derbyshire is still one of the facility’s most vibrant residents, never hesitating to let her and staff members know what she likes or doesn’t like.

“She really keeps us on our toes,” Tiessen said with a laugh.

In Canada’s 2011 population census, 5,825 of about

33.5 million residents were 100 years of age or older — one in every 5,747. At Leamington Mennonite Home, the ratio is about one in every 60. The LMH, with buildings on both Pickwick and Garrison Ave., is home to 300 residents between its independent, assisted living, retirement and long term care divisions.

Merle married Seth Derbyshire in 1938, raising his children Ruth, Mac and Don, as well as their own children Bill and Ann.

Oldest resident at Mennonite Home turns 107

AT RIGHT: Leamington Mennonite Home long term care resident Merle Derbyshire is congratulated on her 107th birthday by LMH administrator Linda Tiessen and Chatham-Kent-Essex MPP Rick Nicholls, who presented her with a certificate. (SUN Photo)

AM - 2:30 PM 7-ELEVEN STORE

First-ever developers’ forum a wealth of information

By Bill Chaplin, Municipal Correspondent

On Wednesday, February 6th Leamington’s Municipal Council invited representatives from the development area — developers, real estate agents, lawyers, and engineers — to attend a “developers’ workshop” to help study some questions all relating to one central idea: How can we change and improve to do our job better and to assist your business?

“I felt the meeting, the first of its kind for us, went really well. The table of professionals I was with had comments and suggestions that were not hidden in political correctness as they were direct and honest. By the time the meeting was over it appeared that there was a consensus in the room of 30 participants as to two main problems that Council and Administration need to address,” said Mayor John Paterson.

More than 30 were in attendance and were welcomed by Mayor John Paterson. The keynote address was from Ray Duhamel, a planning consultant from Jones Consulting Group. He painted a development picture of Leamington in the context of the WindsorEssex region, including not only what there is, but the professionally-developed projections of what kind of growth should be expected up to 2031.

Bill Marck, Leamington’s CAO made a brief ‘meat and potatoes’ (as he described it) group of remarks to get the ball rolling, explaining that this was an initial effort to “open up lines of communication between Council and the development community.”

The meeting focussed on five questions:

1. What isn’t done in

Leamington that other communities do to help your business?

2. What ideas do you have that you’d like to see Leamington implement to assist you in your business?

3. What do you think delays development applications?

4. What do you think we could do to reduce either development charges or taxes?

5. What kind of communication would help us work together in the future?

Ideas were shared from business leaders to every single member of municipal council and every senior administrator in Leamington. Some of the questions that arose included, why not remove all development charges from commercial and industrial development? Why not construct new roads under local improve-

ments, or as part of condominium developments? How about ‘one window’ shopping? Don’t just identify problems, offer solutions and fight with us as we face outside agencies and provincial bureaucrats.

A newsletter will go out from the Municipality containing what was discussed; follow-up meetings will be planned to get feedback on what is changing for the better, what still needs work, and what new ideas need to be explored.

Creativity was stimulated: how can municipal departments self-evaluate and improve themselves? How can the Municipality take on-going communication with developers to the next level? Perhaps most importantly, how can individuals within the Municipality’s structure take ownership of problems and leverage that into solutions for a brighter future and a healthy, sus-

tainable business environment?

“When all was said and done, I spoke with the various Council members and staff who took part. I received the same answer from each of them that this was an excellent meeting; they heard loud and clear what the professionals want and need; and that the participants were pleasantly surprised with Council’s effort to even host such a meeting as it showed that we truly are willing to listen

to

Latam to release new CD

By Bryan Jessop Leamington musician

Justin Latam’s faith in his supporters and love of music have led to the desire to officially release his newest CD to a live audience.

Latam’s fourth recorded collection of songs — titled “Faith. Love. Desire.”

— will be made available through a CD release party at Wheatley Royal Canadian Legion Branch 324 (27 Erie St. North, Wheatley)

Saturday, Feb. 16. To be held on the Legion’s second

floor, doors to the event will open at 7 p.m. with Latam’s live music to begin at 7:30 p.m.

Performers at the release party will be the same musicians who recorded the CD.

Latam will provide vocals and acoustic guitar while his father Rick Latam will also play acoustic guitar.

Dale Butler and Ian Tate will split bass guitar duties, as they did in the recording of Faith. Love. Desire.

The Lesson Lounge owner Charles Diab will play lead

guitar and the lap steel guitar. Diab, who also supports The Bank Theatre’s Friday Night Music Series, also provided harmony vocals on one of the new CD’s 10 tracks. Drums/percussion will be performed by Bennie Pallotto.

There will be no admission fee for the event, with open bar proceeds going to the Wheatley Legion. Latam hopes to see the release party attract a capacity crowd, noting that previous events have drawn head counts of about 180 people. The show will be open to all ages — Latam plans to bring his five children to the show, which will also be attended by his grandfather.

Throughout the live performance of the 10 new songs, copies of the CD will be available for $15 each. Latam’s previous recordings — an acoustic solo collection simply dubbed “Justin Latam,” another rendition of mostly the same songs performed by a full band and a demo recorded seven years ago called “Cowmunication” — will also be for sale. T shirts will also be sold during the event.

Faith. Love. Desire. was recorded November 17 and

Pictured here is an image appearing on the newest CD recording by Justin Latam, titled “Faith. Love. Desire.” The musicians who performed the 10 songs will play them live at a CD release party at the Wheatley Royal Canadian Legion Saturday, Feb. 16, starting at 7:30 p.m.

18 of last year at Soundwaves Audio in Kingsville. The CD was recorded, mixed and produced by Dave Koop. All songs were recorded live — with all musicians performing and being recorded at the same time — with Diab’s music

added later on in the process.

The newest CD’s songs are a mixture of folk music, blues, jazz and rock. Two hundred copies have been made in a recyclable, nontoxic eco-sleeve.

“I was happy with how

the tracks sounded,” said Latam, who is also an instructor at The Lesson Lounge. “They’ve all got a different sound.”

In the near future, Latam hopes to have music from his new CD broadcasted by local radio stations.

Blood clinic

The need for blood in Canada is constant and the fact remains that hospital patients everywhere need blood in all seasons.

The next Leamington Blood Donor Clinic is Wednesday, March 6 at the Kinsmen Recreation Complex on Sherk Street from 1 to 7 p.m. Call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283) for information and to book your appointment. WALK INS WELCOME

First year of French Immersion at Queen of Peace c’est

By Sheila McBrayne

Halfway through its first year of French Immersion for Junior and Senior Kindergarten and Grade 1

students, Queen of Peace Catholic Elementary School

Principal Michael Cusimato is looking forward to expanding the program into

the rest of the school.

“We have 44 students now, and we hope to grow our numbers as we add another French Immersion grade each year. Next year it’s Grade 2 and we add one grade a year until we are full French Immersion from JK to Grade 8,” said Principal Cusimato, who is also bilingual.

This fall was the first three classes to start the program in Leamington.

“As a Board, we’ve listened to what the communities had to say. Parents wanted to improve the opportunities for their children,” said Elisa Houston, Language Consultant with the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board.

Since September, teachers and parents are noticing a difference in the French Immersion students. “It’s been a seamless transition,” said Cusimato. “We’ve kept the parents in mind. We send report cards, notices and letters all in English,” he said.

“I’m very impressed with their progress… Parents are very happy and have told me they have heard them singing and talking in French at home,” said JK/SK teacher Mary-Jo Policella. “In class, they are starting to ask simple questions in French,” she added.

“It’s wonderful to start at a young age – there’s no fear of embarrassment while learning; they’re like little sponges and pick it up so quickly… Some of them already have great accents,” said Policella.

Queen of Peace currently

here, from left to

Joshua

are Matthew

Alex

and

Some of the activities included la glissade (tobogganing in the

has 291 students registered, but could accommodate more if needed. “Our numbers have plateaued – we’ve stopped the decline, which is good,” said Principal Cusimato.

On Wednesday, February 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. there will be an Open House at Queen of Peace for interested parents wishing to find out more about French Immersion and register their children for JK/SK for this fall.

Council shorts from Feb. 11

Municipal Correspondent

Two Bridge

Replacements:

One Gets Go-Ahead, Decision

Deferred on the Other

Leamington Municipal Council received two very similar reports from Drainage Superintendent Lu-Ann Barreto advising Council to hire a drainage engineer for the replacement of two bridges on farms over municipal agricultural drains. Council said yes to one, but insisted deferring their decision on the other until March.

The project that got the go-ahead was for a totally derelict bridge crossing the East Marsh Drain. An engineers report is required to replace the unusable structure with a culvert. The engineer will also have to determine if the existing structure is a legal part of the drain so that the costs associated with its demolition and replacement can be assessed correctly.

The other project is a bridge that crosses the Big Creek Drain on the 11th Concession. The current tenant farmers can’t safely cross it with modern, wide farming equipment and so the owner wants it replaced. But here’s where it gets tricky.

Back in 1980 an engineer’s report noted that the bridge was structurally inadequate, but the owner at the time didn’t want it replaced. The owner instead received compensation for the loss of access. The current owner is an American, and the property is not currently assessed a farm tax class rate. So, even though it is being used for agricultural purposes, and is zoned as agricultural land, it is unclear whether or not the work would qualify for the 1/3 grant from the Provincial Agricultural Drainage Infrastructure Program. Worse, technically the bridge is now an “obstruction” and could simply be ripped out. One goal of the engineer’s report would be to qualify a new bridge as a “legal access” so that maintenance costs would be shared by

the landowner, the municipality, upstream landowners and the Ministry.

With so many questions swirling around a potential $50,000 project, Leamington Council decided to err on the side of caution and get some of the questions answered before reconsidering the report in March.

Another Capital Question for Budget Time

Monday evening, Feb. 11, Leamington Council agreed to have walkways along County Road 20 between Seacliff and the Albuna Town Line put on the 5-year capital forecast at budget time along with a capital request for design costs in 2013.

Council has long realized that the safety of pedestrians and cyclists has been compromised along this stretch of road. With County Council’s adoption of an active transportation plan last year, it is hoped that soon funding will be available for roughly 2 metre wide paths on both

sides of the highway, so the time to begin planning for the expense and for the construction is now.

It is expected that the total cost of the improvements could total close to $1 million, with Leamington’s share around $455,000. The problem is where will the money come from, and

how high a priority will the County give this work. With all the unknowns at the moment, Leamington Council agreed to have it put on the budget for debate, while administration tries to find out more about the County’s position in the meantime.

Ontario business hesitant to be optimistic

Index comes as

The Ontario Business Confidence Index shows that most Ontario businesses are confident in their own outlook (72 percent) and are planning to expand over the next five years (60 percent). However, the same businesses are unsure about

the overall direction of Ontario’s economy - 41 percent express confidence.

The index is a survey of 2,386 businesses and was conducted as part of Emerging Stronger 2013, a business-driven economic agenda for Ontario released today by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce, along with their research partner, the Mowat Centre at the University of Toronto.

Emerging Stronger 2013 is a transformational agenda aimed at accelerating Ontario’s economic growth.

It identifies Ontario’s challenges and advantages, and sets out practical and detailed recommendations for government and business.

Offered at 4 schools in Leamington & Kingsville. Ages 18 months - 12 years 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. • Subsidy available. For details call 519-733-8202 www.discoverychildcareschools.com

Some of its key recommendations include: enabling better access to capital for start-ups and small businesses through crowd funding; encouraging businesses to employ more Aboriginal people and people with disabilities; opening up more government services to private sector and notfor-profit delivery; utilizing Ontario’s large immigrant population to grow exports; and, allowing more employers to participate in training.

The agenda comes days after Kathleen Wynne was named Ontario’s next premier and is intended to provide a non-partisan platform that should appeal to all three parties.

“The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has criss-crossed this province engaging and hearing from local chambers and their 60,000 members,” added Allan O’Dette, CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

“We are confident that Ontario has all the assets to

prosper, but we need to act collectively, strategically, and with purpose.”

“This Index is one of the largest surveys ever conducted of business opinion in Ontario,” according to Dave Scholz, Vice President of Leger Marketing, the pollster. “Business sentiment is very much ‘glass half-full’ in the province right now.”

Among the survey findings are:

Ontario is falling behind on productivity: only 10 percent of respondents believe their sector is a global leader in productivity.

Some sectors are much more confident than others: the financial services sector is the most confident in their own outlook (74 percent say their business will expand in the next 5 years).

Businesses are struggling to diversify their exports: 45 percent of Ontario businesses view China as the most critical market in the next 5-10 years. Yet only 1.4 per-

“Living so close to a major international border, our area’s prosperity is directly tied to the ease of movement of people and goods across that border... The status quo is no longer acceptable. We must grow, adapt and change to rise to the challenges in today’s economy. And discussing it is the first move.”

-

cent of Ontario’s exports are bound for China.

Some regions are more confident than others: Greater Hamilton Area businesses are most likely to respond

Sally McDonald, General Manager of the Leamington & District Chamber of Commerce that the economy is heading in the right direction (48 percent), while Eastern Ontario businesses are the least likely (36 percent).

WEDNESDAYS - Are you looking for food and fellowship? Join us, no charge, at St. John’s Anglican Church, 60 Erie St. N., Leamington, from 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Call 519-326-3111 for more information.

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS ARE NEEDED to transport people in Essex County and Chatham-Kent for dialysis treatments. Reimbursement of mileage is at .40 cents per km driven. We are in need of volunteer drivers to provide these essential appointments. To volunteer call 519728-1435, long distance 1-855-728-1433, or visit us at 499 Notre Dame St., Belle River. IF YOU HAVE PARKINSON and would like to join our group for information, exercise and support, come by Tuesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. to the Half Century Club, 160 Talbot St. E. Leamington. 12-STEP PROGRAM FOR ABUSE FOR WOMEN AND MEN. BE SPA (Beyond Emotional, Sexual, Physical Abuse) is a 12-step program for abuse, modeled after AA (Alcoholics Anonymous). Move beyond the victim to victor! Address the core issues of the deep hurts that are affecting your life, resulting in poor relationships with yourself and others. Find inner peace, overcome the survivor/victim role and become the VICTOR! The power of this program takes you to a healing place that lasts a lifetime. Sessions Wednesday evenings from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Church of the Epiphany, 96 Main St. W., Kingsville. For information call Connie at 519325-0723.

FREE WELL BABY AND CHILD DROP-IN CLINICS. Offered by the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit from January to June 2013. The clinics are for healthy babies and children from birth to six years old. You don’t need an appointment to attend. Meet with a public health nurse

to have your baby weighed and measured. Caregivers will also be able to speak with the nurse about breastfeeding, growth and development, parenting, and injury prevention. For dates, locations, and times go to the Health Unit website at http://www.wechealthunit.org/familyhealth/news/free-well-baby-and-child-drop-inclinics.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17 - Essex County Orchid Society's meeting, 1:30 p.m., St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard, Windsor. Come learn how to 'Identify and Treat those Nasties on your Orchids'. Visitors and new members always welcome. More info: www.essexcountyorchidsociety.webs.com

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18 - Family Day Free Skate, from 1-3 p.m. at the Unico Arena. Sponsored by FGT Family Church. Loving Leamington event for all in our community.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18 - Family Day Bingo Doors open at 8:30 a.m. and Bingo games begin at 9:30 a.m. It is free to play, admission is canned goods for the Food Bank. Come on out, have some fun, and win great prizes. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Chances' Bingo Hall, 14 Mill St. E., Leamington, 519-3222251.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18 - Food & Fellowship Supper, 5:00-6:00 pm, Leamington United Church, 9 John St. welcomes all those who are alone or having trouble making ends meet. No Charge.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 - The Leamington Horticultural Society will hold its monthly meeting at the Leamington United Church, 7:30 p.m. This month’s speakers will be Kelly and Christine Flaming who will be talking on the

topic, “Life Products for Safe and Healthy Lifestyles”. To attend, you do not have to be a Society member. Guests are welcome and attendance is free. Light refreshments will be served. For further information please call Berit Collings 519-326-5558.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21 - The Pelee Past Questers meet at 7:30 p.m., at WFCU, 318 Erie St. S., Leamington. Program: coin collecting, especially U.S. wheat pennies, presented by Tom Mertz. Drop-ins encouraged. Pelee Past Questers is an organization for the study of antiques, preservation and restoration of artifacts, existing memorials, historical buildings, landmarks and education. For info call Jackie 519-326-1361.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25 - 5:00 p.m. Knox Presbyterian church will provide a free dinner for those in need

MONTH OF MARCH - South Essex Community Council will be holding Free Community Volunteer Income Tax Clinics during the month of March. To qualify, families must earn less than $35,000 per year and individuals must earn less than $25,000 per year. To make an appointment, call SECC – 519-326-8629 ext. 381. SECC is a registered charity. Helping People. Improving Lives.

SATURDAY, MARCH 2 - Mom2Mom Sale, from 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex, 249 Sherk St. Donate a new baby item for the Sunparlour Pregnancy Resource Centre and shop the pre-sale at 9:30 a.m. 100 spaces at this event. For more info visit http://www.mom2mom.ca/windsor/mom2mom resale.htm.

Community Calendar is a FREE service for FREE events.

Please see the COMING EVENTS section in the Classifieds for events with admission charges.

Employers encouraged to apply for Canada

Summer Jobs funding

Dave Van Kesteren, Member of Parliament for Chatham-Kent-Essex, is encouraging employers to apply for funding through the Canada Summer Jobs program to help create student jobs.

“Our government’s top priorities are job creation, economic growth and long-term prosperity,” said Van Kesteren. “Through Canada Summer Jobs, we are helping Chatham-Kent-Essex employers create meaningful summer job opportunities for students, while strengthening our community’s economy.”

Funding will be available to not-for-profit organizations, publicsector employers and small businesses, helping youth gain tangible skills and job experience while earning money for the next school year. Young people, aged 15 to 30 years, who are full-time students and intend to return to school in the following school year can qualify for these job opportunities.

Employers can apply online at servicecanada. gc.ca/csj2013 or print an application from the website. They can also get an application by visiting any Service Canada Centre. Applications must be submitted by February 28, 2013. To help employers complete their application, the Canada Summer Jobs Applicant Guide is available online, by calling 1-800-9355555, or by visiting any Service Canada Centre.

Leamington men charged with meat theft

Two Leamington men have been charged with theft under $5000 after an investigation at the Foodland store in Essex last week.

Essex OPP was called to attend the grocery store after a report that approximately $400 worth of meat was stolen.

Richard Teskey, age 41, of Leamington, has been charged with one count of theft under $5000. Jean Paul Desilets, age 33, also of Leamington, has been charged with two counts of theft under $5000.

Both parties will appear in a Windsor court in March.

Light up Leamington blue for autism

Bill Chaplin, Municipal Correspondent

April 2nd is World Autism Day in Canada, and Leamington Municipal Council, Monday evening, Feb. 11, heard plans to raise autism awareness in Leamington that day from two local organizers, Ann Obeid-Diab and Paula LaSala-Filangeri. Building on an idea launched internationally in 2010 by Autism Speaks, they hope to get schools, businesses and people in Leamington to use the colour blue to get people thinking about this condition that currently affects one out of every 88 children (and one in 50 boys), and whose prevalence is growing every year.

By illuminating buildings in blue (like the Empire State Building was last April 2nd), having blue themes in storefronts, people wearing blue jeans, and other ‘blue’ ideas, it is hoped that more awareness of autism and sensitivity toward the needs to deal with difficulties experienced by autistic children and their families will build support for future efforts.

ERCA implements Sustainability Plan

While the Essex Region Conservation has long been dedicated to improving the environmental sustainability of the region, recently it introduced a plan for organizational sustainability. “We have undergone a restructuring to address ongoing budget pressures related to historic and chronic under-funding of levy contributions for operations,” explained Richard Wyma, ERCA’s General Manager. “The Five Year Sustainability Plan: A Way Forward considered budget reports, best practices from other similar agencies and municipalities, program reviews and input collected from Board, Staff and the public during its strategic planning sessions.”

As a result of this plan, departments and their managers have been reduced from seven to four, and while the staff complement remains the same, a significant departmental restructuring has taken place. Most of the reductions were achieved by eliminating recently vacated positions.

“This plan allows us to continue our operations while focusing on some pressing capital issues such as infrastructure and reserves,” Wyma added. Infrastructure and visitor services will be improved at Holiday Beach Conservation Area, including a new beach washroom, which has been closed for several years. “We are going to transition Holiday Beach and focus on its strengths in the short term: seasonal camping, day use and education. Individual camping nights will be suspended this year until we can improve the park’s facilities for its users.”

The new organizational structure provides clarity and further encourages collaboration and coordination, while allowing for succession and retention planning. It also directs funding to programs that currently is derived from ‘at risk’ sources. It also better positions ERCA to respond to the next generation of conservation challenges, such as low impact design, and how climate change will impact Essex region and individual municipalities; and enhances opportunities for research partnerships with the University of Windsor and St. Clair College.

“It is anticipated that these changes will strengthen our organization’s ability to actively pursue and embrace change and new ways of doing business, become more engaged with our partners and better communicate with the communities we serve,” Wyma concluded. “As part of our 40th year of conservation, it seemed like an appropriate time to introduce changes that will help us move forward in strengthening our ability to implement the community’s conservation goals.”

Maple time at the Homestead!

The maple syrup season will soon be here, and it doesn’t last long. Don’t miss your chance to learn about the springtime ritual of maple syrup and sugar making. The John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area is now taking bookings for its popular maple education programs and group tours, offered from February 25 to March 28.

Costumed guides will be making maple syrup and sugar the pioneer way and visitors are invited to get involved at every stage. Discover the tradition that began with the First Nations. Outdoors, get up close and see the trees tapped and the sap boiling in a large iron cauldron. Go inside to help with the finishing of the syrup on the 1850s kitchen fireplace. At the visitor centre, knowledgeable staff will teach you the science behind maple syrup. Children can participate with various hands-on activities: try a brace and bit drill, carry pails of sap using an old-fashioned yoke and taste some pure maple sugar.

The Homestead’s maple programs are appropriate for any age. First Taste of Spring event is on Sun. Mar. 3 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The popular Maple March Break for Families is Tues. Mar. 12 and Fri. Mar. 15 at 1:30 p.m. sharp. The exciting Maple Moon evening program is Tues. Mar. 12 at 7 p.m. Pre-registration required for this sugaring-off party by candlelight which includes taffy making on snow.

For more information about any of these programs, visit www.erca.org/events or call 519-738-2029. The Homestead is located at 915 County Road 50, at the corner of Iler Road.

Happy Chinese New Year at MDB!

On Monday, February 11 the Grade 2 students from Mrs. Epp’s, Mrs. Sullivan’s and Mrs. Johnston’s classes held a celebration for Chinese New Year at M.D. Bennie Public School. Students have been learning about Chinese New Year customs by reading books about celebrations, writing New Year’s goals and creating masks as part of their Traditions and Celebrations unit. The students enjoyed chicken balls and rice as part of their Year of the Snake festivities and watched Chinese New Year celebrations on the SmartBoard. As a keepsake, each student received a traditional red envelope with a Canadian penny, a Year of the Snake collector’s stamp from Canada Post and a candy.

Seeking submissions for

The 2013 Windsor-Essex International Children’s Games (ICG) Organizing Committee is calling upon talented songwriters and musicians to compose an original song that will be performed live at the 47th International Children’s Games Opening Ceremonies Thursday, August 15 at the WFCU Centre.

ICG Theme Song Contest

The ICG Theme Song Contest is open to WindsorEssex residents of all ages. Songwriters/musicians are encouraged to submit an original 90-second song including lyrics and basic song structure by March 8. After the submission deadline, all lyrics will be judged by a panel of industry professionals.

The winning theme song will then move on to Phase 2 of the contest which will search for the official performers of the winning

“The ICG Theme Song Contest provides a rare opportunity for both aspiring and established local songwriters/musicians to have their song heard in an international arena. Imagine thousands of spectators, athletes and coaches from around the world humming your song during opening ceremonies!” says Melissa Williams, Director/Producer, ICG Games Opening Ceremonies.

WINDSOR-ESSEX CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

JUNIOR & SENIOR KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION

FEBRUARY 19TH - MARCH 1ST, 2013

French Immersion Program

OFFERING FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN

Queen of Peace Catholic School

57 Nicholas Street, Leamington

Come and visit our Catholic School OPEN HOUSE

Wednesday, February 20th, 5-7 p.m.

For more information please contact Michael Cusinato at 519-326-9023 or visit www.wecdsb.on.ca/229

song. The winning song will capture the spirit of the ICG in that of friendship and peace and through sport, the values of fair play, equality, respect, acceptance, hard work, team spirit and creativity.

Here’s how it works:

Phase 1: Started February 11 and requires applicants to submit an original 90-second song including lyrics and basic song structure (example: verse, bridge and chorus). The closing date for submissions is March 8. Submissions will be available for viewing on the website by March 11. The winning theme song will be chosen by a panel of industry professionals and announced on the website March 22.

Phase 2: Starts March 22 and will require applicants to submit a 90-second performance of the winning theme song chosen in Phase 1. The closing date for submissions is April 8. Submissions will be available for viewing on the website by April 10. The finalists will be chosen by public vote and a panel of industry professionals and announced on the website April 22. For more information and complete contest details, visit the contest page at www.icg-windsoressex2013.com and click on the ICG Theme Song Contest icon.

CCO O M M M MUUN NIIT T YY AAW WAAR REEN NEES SSS: :

Supporting the organizations who provide support to our community

Local Organization Providing Meals on Wheels for 21 Years

South Essex Community Council has been delivering hot, nutritious meals to local seniors and persons with disabilities since 1992. SECC partners with The Sun Parlour Home for Senior Citizens and the Leamington Mennonite Home, as well as more than 300 volunteers to produce and deliver freshly made meals 7 days per week. In 2011-12, SECC delivered 20, 507 meals to individuals living in Leamington, Kingsville and Wheatley.

SECC offers a wide variety of Community Home Support services along with Meals on Wheels, including transportation services, Adult Day Program, Home Maintenance and Friendly Visiting. All of these programs help individuals maintain their independence and live healthy and productive lives at home. All services are provided by helpful and friendly staff, and registration is easy. Just call 519326-8629 for more information about these or any of the other many services South Essex Community Council provides.

South Essex Community Council has been

CFL Jason Riley’s 1975

Datsun 280Z sport coupe

Jason Riley of Hamilton, Ontario, writes: “Hi Bill, I enjoy reading your column.

Essex since 1973. It is a registered, nonprofit, charitable organization whose mission is: “Helping people. Improving lives.” SECC provides three core services: employment & training, language & settlement, and community home support services. The organization also provides a variety of income and security programs such as Coats for Kids and Keep the Heat.

“Back in 1975, in Vancouver, B.C., my Grade 10 classmate said: ‘My dad is bringing his new sports car to school today.’ Mr. Chappell was our art teacher and we already knew he was buying a brand new 1975 Datsun 280Z sport coupe. When he drove into the parking lot with that shiny white car with the sleek front end, the Grade 10 boys were like ants around a crumb. It was the coolest car we had ever seen and I was immediately guilty of ‘coveting my neighbour’s goods.’

“Seven years later and after being drafted in the first round of the CFL draft, I received a signing bonus from the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and immediately called Mr. Chappell to ask if he would sell his 280Z. He said yes because he was retiring and needed a van. The only catch was, if I didn’t make the team, I would need the signing bonus to pay the rent. We came to an agreement that he would hold it for me as he wanted to sell it to someone who would take care of his ‘baby.’

“When I made the team, my future wife did the transaction on the wire service from Vancouver and my future father-in-law drove the car to me in Winnipeg. In 1984, when I signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, I had the car shipped by train to Hamilton where it stays in my garage on rainy days and never sees winter.

“When my kids were young, they would ask for a ride in the ‘white car’ when they did something special because it’s a two-seater and they loved going for a ride in it ‘all by themselves.’ They bought me personalized plates for my 50th birthday. It still purrs like a kitten every time I start it up and my wife and I go on ‘dates’ in it on warm summer days.

“It receives a lot of TLC and my son and I enjoy working on it together doing routine maintenance. Last summer I replaced the original carpets with a perfectly fitting custom carpet kit I purchased online from www.upgrademotoring.com, a website in California. Last August I entered the 2012 Ontario Z Car Show-and-Shine hosted by Rick Scott at Brantford Nissan, a very helpful gentleman in tracking down Z car parts. At the show, our car won first prize in the Stock 280Z category. It must have been the new carpet!”

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

All can be symptoms of TMJ (Temporomandibular

If

On February 7, Leamington OPP responded to the Shoppers Drug Mart on Erie Street South with regard to a theft from the pharmacy. At approximately 10:30 p.m. a white male, wearing a black hat with black scarf covering his face, a tan jacket and dark pants, walked behind the pharmacy counter and took four boxes of asthma medication and exited the store. The male was described as having a medium build and about 5’10”. Anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to contact Leamington OPP at 519-326-2544.

Pictured here is the Mill Street Public School Eco Club with the Silver certification poster and new iPad they received from the Greater Essex County District School Board’s Eco Schools Committee.

Greening turns to silver for Mill Street Eco Club

By Sheila McBrayne

The Eco Club at Mill Street Public School was recently recognized for their sterling environmental performance last year.

Retired principal Bob Garrett from the Eco Committee of the Greater Essex County District School Board presented the school club with its Silver certification. Last year the Mill Street Eco Club added composting to the school’s recycling efforts and performed an energy audit of the school.

The school did its first certification with the Eco Schools of Ontario last year trying to attain bronze, silver, or ultimately, gold status. “They succeeded in getting silver on their very first try… That’s very impressive,” said Garrett during a presentation at the January school assembly on January 31.. The group received the Silver status poster for the school’s hallway with a sticker to mark their 2012 accomplishment. Stickers can be added each year to reflect the school’s continued environmental efforts.

The Mill Street Eco Club was also presented with an iPad for their efforts above and beyond the certification criteria. The iPads have applications that help students in the ‘greening’ of their school. There are applications for recycling ideas, and energy saving ideas as well.

Mill Street’s Eco Club has approximately 20 members and is led by teachers Mrs. McDonald and Mrs. SomersetChambers.

On Saturday, February 9 those who

were treated to some live entertainment and a wine and cheese reception at The Bank Theatre. Pictured here, from left to right, are

OBITUARY

Marshall Van Damme

Marshall Omar Van Damme, a lifelong resident of Wallaceburg, Ontario, born June 25, 1921, passed away on Saturday, February 2, 2013 at Sydenham Residence, Wallaceburg, at the age of 91 years.

Son of the late Achiel Van Damme (1960) and Celina (Defraeye) (1955). Beloved husband of the late Helena Elizabeth (Everaert) Van Damme (2004). Loving father of Carol and husband Maurice Laevens of Chatham, Marcia and husband George Janssens of Dresden, John and wife Mary Van Damme of Wallaceburg, Judy and husband Ray Roy of Sombra, Sandra and husband Eugene Schepens of Wallaceburg, Kenneth and wife Louise Van Damme of Wallaceburg, and Jane and husband John DeGoey of Leamington. Grandfather of 24 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and predeceased by two. Marshall was the last surviving member of his family. Brother-in-law of Lorraine Van Damme, Annie Everaert, Estella Van Dommelen, Germain and Louis P. Burm, Mary Delaey, Maurice and Linda Everaert, and Paul and Cathy Everaert. Predeceased by brothers George, Remi P. (Leona), Edmund (Angela), Maurice (Margaret). Sisters Bertha (Rudolph Burm), Emily (Louis Burm), Madeline (Ferdinand Van Boven), Elodie (Joseph Bogaert), Emma (Joseph Janssens) and Mary (Albert Van Haverbeke). Brothers-in-law Jerome Everaert, Elmer Van Dommelen and Lucien Delaey, and sister-in-law Rose Everaert.

Marshall was a life member of the Third Degree Knights of Columbus and Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus. In 1985 Marshall was named the Rural Citizen of the Year by the Wallaceburg and District Chamber of Commerce and in 2001 the entire Van Damme family, including extended relatives, received the Chamber of Commerce Heritage Award for all their contributions to the community over the last 100 years. Marshall was involved in a number of community organizations and projects such as helping out with the Merici Catholic high school, the annual Santa Claus parade, and past president of the CBD Club and a lifelong farmer on Otter Creek Line.

The family received relatives and friends at the Haycock-Cavanagh Funeral Home, 409 Nelson St., Wallaceburg, on Tuesday, February 5 and Wednesday, February 6 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Parish Prayers were held on Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. and Knights of Columbus Prayers with Honor Guard at 7:00 p.m., followed with the presentation of the Chalice.

Marshall lay in state at Our Lady Help of Christians Church, Thursday, February 7, 2013 from 11:00 a.m. until time of the Funeral Mass of Resurrection at 12 noon. Interment in Riverview Cemetery.

If desired, remembrances to the Sydenham Hospital Campus, Equipment, St. Vincent DePaul Food Bank or Holy Redeemer Parish Cluster, Building Fund, may be left at the funeral home. 519-627-3231.

Online tributes may be left at www.cavanaghfuneralhome.ca

OBITUARY

Jacob Dietz

Scott Sovie

Scott Arthur Sovie, 44 years, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family on Sunday February 10, 2013.

Jacob “Jake” Dietz, 79 years, passed away peacefully at Hospice Village on Wednesday, February 6, 2013. Beloved husband of Mary (Stein) for 59 years. Dear father of Marianne Dyck (Rudy), and Robert Dietz (Betty Schiefer). Loving Opi to five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Dear brother to Lorenz (Katie), and Helmut (Marie). Many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends also survive. Jake is predeceased by his parents, Elizabeth (1981) and Jacob (2009), brothers Adam (1942) and Frank (2012), and sisters-in-law Dorothy (1987), Alice (2006), and Colleen (2006). He is also survived by his stepmother Katie Dietz.

Jake was a retired farmer in Essex County as well as a former bus driver for C.A. Bailey Bus Lines. He drove coach for tours, school bus and the Leamington Flyers Hockey Team.

Visitation was held at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519326-2631).

Funeral service celebrating Jake’s life was held from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 311 Sherk Street, Leamington, on Saturday, February 9, 2013. Rev. Thomas Mertz officiated. Interment Erie Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations may be made by cheque to Hospice of Windsor or St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Friends may send condolences or make a charitable contribution online at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Drainage Report Adopted

As one of the conditions to a proposed land severance and development by Pencor Developments Inc., Municipal Council adopted a drainage engineer’s report on the 4th Concession Drain. It essentially stated that there would be no negative impact on the drain with a change of use so long as runoff is restricted to the 1:2 year pre-development runoff, and it established a new maintenance schedule for the drain as a consequence of the proposed changes.

Council did inquire if upstream landowners were informed of the proposed change, and were told that the project was investigated on its own merits, so other landowners were not involved. If a problem arises as a result of the Pencor de-

velopment, mechanisms and cost allocation are in place to address that unlikely situation. With that assurance, council passed the required motion and adopted the bylaw necessary.

Loving husband and best friend to Michelle Sovie (nee Bonyai). Cherised son of Linda Sovie and Brian (Harris), Jerry and Bernice Sovie. Son-in-law of Joe and Bonnie Bonyai. Loving stepfather of Cassandra Kenney (Brian Smith), and Justin Kenney of Alberta. Loving grandfather of Ava and Skylar. Loving brother- in-law of Tim Bonyai, and uncle to Tyler and Emily Bonyai. Scott is also survived by his extended family, stepsister Diane and John Beresh and stepbrother Dale and Laura Woodhouse. Scott will be sadly missed by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends.

As per Scott’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Visiting at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) on Wednesday, February 13, 2013 from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

Funeral service to celebrate Scott’s life held from the funeral home on Thursday, February 14, 2013 at 11 a.m. Rev. Liz Chaplin officiating.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Brain Tumour Research Fund or charity of your choice.

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

Sonshine Lutheran Church

Worship Service - Sunday 10 am

warm & caring church where the gospel of Christ is presented in Truth & Purity” ~

Leamington Dental Health Center

Dr. Bailey, Dr. Nguyen & Associates www.ldhc.ca Tel 519-322-2866 Fax 519-322-1769

THE LEAMINGTON DENTAL HEALTH CENTER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

We are looking for students who are interested in pursuing an education in health care and likely to return to work in our community. We want to improve and grow the health care services in this region.

Award Type: Scholarship Amount: $500

Number of Recipients: Two students annually

Category of Study: Health Care Related Application Deadline: May 10th, 2013

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be in the graduating year of uninterrupted full-time studies in high school

• OR currently enrolled in a health care field.

• Has filed an application to attend a college or university upon graduating from High School

Application form:

• Please visit WWW.LDHC.CA to download application form OR

• Pick up form at 8 Clark St. W, Leamington, ON

It is about you, your dreams and aspirations, and your perseverance to succeed.

Good luck to all applicants from the LDHC team. And thank you for letting us be a part of your dental health care team for the past 25 years!

Bradley performing in Theatre Alive’s production of Pippin

By Sheila McBrayne

Wheatley’s own Tim Bradley is one of two leading male characters in Theatre Alive’s Pippin.

Bradley, 17, is a Grade 12 student at Walkerville Collegiate Institute’s Centre for the Creative Arts (WCCA for short) and has been active in local theatre for several years.

Tim is playing the lead role of the play’s namesake character Pippin, who is the son of King Charlemagne (in the year 700 AD). Pippin’s quest to discover the meaning of life weaves a humorous, touching and uplifting journey to self-identity. Pippin is a hip, tongue-in-cheek anachronistic musical that captivated Broadway audiences and continues to appeal to the young at heart.

The Lally’s are excited to announce Tom Leckie has joined the Lally Southpoint Ford Team in Leamington. As New Car/Truck Sales Manager, Tom invites his friends and customers to give Tom a call or drop by for a coffee. Tom has been selling and leasing Fords for the last 28 years. His sales success is based on his dedication to customer service and understanding of what it takes to create loyal customers. Tom shares our core values of integrity, friendliness and pride in workmanship. Contact Tom today at 519-326-8600 or email tleckie@southpointford.ca

“Working with Theatre Alive has been an amazing experience for me so far. The atmosphere they promote is very professional and I felt welcomed as soon as I stepped into the door. Judging from the past shows they have put on, this one is sure to be spectacular! The show is full of comedy and follows Pippin on a journey of self-fulfillment,” said Tim.

Pippin, directed by Brian Raisbeck and choreographed by Corey Mariuz, is playing at The Chrysler Theatre, St. Clair Centre for the Arts in Windsor, March 1, 2, 3 and 8, 9, 10. Tim and the cast have been practicing since September.

This energetic pop-influenced score by three-time Oscarwinning composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz (Godspell and Children of Eden) bursts with one show stopping number after another from soaring ballads to infectious Bob Fosse dance numbers.

Show times are Friday and Saturdays 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets can be ordered online at www.theatrealive. com.

Last year Tim was in Phantom of the Opera with WCCA and has been in plenty of local productions with Little Tomato Theatre including Bedazzled by Broadway and Beauty and the Beast. He was in Windsor Light Music Theatre’s Beauty and the Beast and Seussical, as well as the Theatre Kent production of Seussical. Tim also performed in Leamington District Secondary School’s Little Shop of Horrors and Godspell during his Grade 9 and 10 years there. He also did some shows with Migration Hall Productions, including Secret Garden and Joseph.

“I’ve always enjoyed theatre from a young age, and plan to spend the rest of my life performing! I’m very grateful for this experience I’ve been given and look forward to seeing friends and family show their support and having a good time enjoying the arts,” said Tim.

Tim has applied to Sheridan College for their Bachelor’s Degree in Musical Theatre Performance. It’s a very competitive program that requires an audition to get in. He has his audition two weeks after Pippin closes. Good luck Tim!

Mastronardi expands distribution, increases greenhouse acreage

Mastronardi Produce Ltd. Is currently expanding its distribution center in Kingsville, which will almost double the company’s headquarters. The increase in space at the primary Canadian location is related to the company adding over an additional 100 greenhouse acres in Ontario alone for 2013.

“Our gourmet greenhouse tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and specialty items continue to be in high demand and with this acreage, we will fulfill the needs of our key partners throughout North America,” said Paul Mastronardi, President. “The new addition also includes automation to improve packing and distribution efficiencies.”

The new 72,000 sq. ft. expansion is expected to be completed by this summer.

All systems go for LDMBA

Trivia Night 14

The questions have been written, tested, doublechecked and locked away in a safe place in preparation for Trivia Night 14 on Wednesday, February 27.

The event takes place at 7:00 p.m. at the Portuguese Club in Leamington.

Teams of four compete to answer 120 questions (12 rounds of 10 questions) in a variety of subjects including television, Canadiana, general knowledge, sports, geography, entertainment and much more.

“The evening is a lot of fun and full of laughs,” says Jeff Lamotte, Trivia Night 14 chairperson. “Teams compete for cash prizes, door prizes and most important — bragging rights.”

Teams should register in advance and can contact Lamotte at 519-322-1379 for a registration form or for any additional information. Teams can enter in three different divisions — Adult, High School and Elementary School.

The evening is hosted by the Leamington District Minor Baseball Association (LDMBA) with all proceeds to support minor baseball for boys and girls in the Leamington and Wheatley area.

Peter Raffoul of the Cougars makes his way to the Belle River basket during a Tier II senior boys basketball game at Cardinal Carter Thursday, Feb. 7. The Cougars kept the score close through the first three quarters, but a strong fourth quarter by the Nobles led to a 74-56 win for the visitors. Prior to the senior game, the junior Cougars doubled Belle River 52-26. The junior team’s win placed them in a tie for second place with St. Joseph’s.

As my wife and I raise our now 18-month-old son, we’re making a conscious effort not to use the word “stupid” when he’s within earshot. Although I normally try not to succumb to the over-sensitivity trend that is making Western culture unbearable, I do at the same time admit I don’t want my son to end up calling classmates or family members “stupid.”

As such, I’d like to avoid answering the question “Dad, why is it bad to say ‘stupid’ when you used it in this column back in 2013?”

Unfortunately, at least in this particular column, the new ‘S word’ is going to be unavoidable. Over the last couple days, I’ve spent some time pondering rules in organized sports that are just plain stupid.

This particular train of thought was set in motion while covering Game 1 of the Great Lakes Junior ‘C’ quarterfinal between the Wheatley Sharks and Alvinston Flyers on Monday of last week. It was then that I learned that Ontario Hockey Federation rules stipulate that a player who shoots the puck into the protective netting suspended above the glass after the play has been whistled dead is to be

ejected from the remainder of the game plus receive a minimum additional onegame suspension (GM 65 is the infraction code on the scoresheet).

At most, this sounds like an offense worthy of two minutes for unsportsmanlike conduct. By comparison, a checking from behind ‘minor’ penalty (GM 50) earns the same one game misconduct. Apparently, in the minds of some, scuffing the puck by blasting it into a wall of plastic mesh is equally as deplorable as potentially inflicting brain, neck or spinal damage on another player.

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t blame the refs — they aren’t the ones who conjure up these stupid rules, they’re simply the ones with the unenviable job of enforcing them (although I won’t cast judgment in cases where they ‘let it go’). Sadly, those in authoritative positions often take an ‘if it isn’t broken, break it’ approach to what should be peripheral components of certain sports.

On the other hand, I’d love to be handed an international soccer rule book written in pencil and told to “go nuts.” Actually, I suppose the only rule I’d go crazy on would be the frustrating

Jessop’s Jessop’s Journal Journal

offside rule. As a textbook Canadian who adores hockey above all other competitive forms of recreation, my first instinct would simply be to dump blue dye into the chalk cart and run straight across the field at two locations (perhaps just outside the penalty box arcs), all the while cackling like a madman, screaming “here ya go everyone, no more offside traps (a strategy where defending players run ahead to put opposing forwards between themselves and the net, thus forcing an offside call)!”

Honestly, soccer’s version of offside was forged with good intentions. It’s a rule to discourage offensive players from hanging out behind the opposition’s defense in hopes of receiving a pass that will grant an easy breakaway — what we Canucks often refer to as “cherry picking.”

On the other hand, if a defender can’t be bothered to keep a closer eye on sneaky opposing forwards than I say “too bad, try putting more

grass between yourself and the halfway line.” Many of even the most staunch soccer fans/players groan or curse when a golden scoring opportunity is snuffed by an offside call.

Moving on to basketball. I find it frustrating that a sport so fast and fluent can be so easily tripped up by a few bizarre rules. Charging and blocking are what puzzle me the most. If an offensive player can crash into an opposing defender on his way to the net and maintain control of the ball without traveling, he should be permitted to continue on his merry way toward a two-point attempt. As a defender, all you have to do is fall over if said ball carrier bumps into you and voila, the ball is literally hand-delivered to your team.

Blocking is equally baffling. Unless a defending player stands there like a pilon, he has committed a personal foul by impeding the opposing ball carrier’s march to the net. Why not force the defender to roll out a red carpet for his adversary, complete with stanchions linked by velvet ropes to either side? Perhaps offer him an after-dinner mint or a glass of Dom Perignon on his way to an uninterrupted two-pointer? It sounds like fodder for a Monte Pythonesque comedy skit, but I started to wonder if it was supposed to happen during a recent UMEI basketball game against Michel-Gratton. Lightning players were subject to more condemnation than the average mafia don.

At times, we overlook questionable rules simply because they’ve been around so long. Someone on a local hockey forum recently offered a short rant about the exception to hockey’s icing rule. Why should a shorthanded team be allowed to ice the puck when the team that has done nothing wrong cannot? Penalties are assessed for a reason — the guilty team is SUPPOSED to be at a disadvantage for two, four or five minutes at a time. If someone is placed on probation for starting a bar fight, do we compensate him/her for the inconvenience of reporting to a parole officer by allowing them to drive drunk?

Of course not. That would be stupid.

Fish take flight as Sharks sweep Flyers

By Bryan Jessop

The Wheatley Sharks wasted little time laying waste to the Alvinston Flyers.

Following an 8-2 victory in Game 1 of the Great Lakes Junior ‘C’ quarterfinal series, the Sharks followed up with a 4-2 victory in Game 2, preceeded by two trips to Alvinston for a 6-2 win on Friday, Feb. 8 and a 6-1 triumph the next day. With no need for a fifth game, Wheatley awaits the results of the series between the Belle River Canadiens and Mooretown Flags (Belle River leads 3-1) and the Dresden Kings and Blenheim Blades (Dresden leads 3-1). The Essex 73’s swept the Kingsville Comets in four games.

Despite losing a tooth in the first period, Wheatley Sharks forward Jon Woelk had ample reason to smile once Game 2 ended.

As a result of taking a puck in the face along the boards in the Alvinston zone, Woelk lost a tooth — root and all — early in the first frame. Despite returning to the bench bruised and bloodied, Woelk remained in the game and eventually scored the game winner. “That’s playing character hockey,” said Sharks head coach Ken Galerno. “He should have went straight to the hospital, but instead he put a cage on his helmet and said ‘let’s get it done’.”

Woelk did in fact get it done, breaking a 2-2 tie at the midway point of the third period. Standing beside the left side of the Flyers net and behind the goal line, Woelk reached forward and slammed a rebounding puck over the goal line before it could be located by Alvinston goalie Jamie Morreau. Late in the regular season, Woelk took an undetected stick to the side of the head from an Essex player, causing a large cut across his ear that bled excessively. Woelk elected to stay in that game as well, eventually scoring the game-winner in a 7-5 decision.

The Wednesday, Feb. 6 win against the Flyers gave the Sharks a 2-0 series lead going into Game 3. The victory did not come as easily as the 8-2 drubbing of their guests in Game 1, where the Sharks led 5-0 after the first 11 minutes.

“That was a playoff game,” Galerno said of Game 2. “The first game wasn’t. That’s how we’ll have to play them. Every game, and hopefully every series, will get harder.”

After a scoreless first period, the Flyers took a 1-0 lead in the second after Kirk Dorman grabbed a rebound that bounced directly in front of the Sharks net and fired it past a sprawling Marc Tremblay. The lead stuck for just over three minutes, until Sharks’ defenseman Brett Babkirk flipped a high wrist shot from just inside the Alvinston blue line that eluded a screened Morreau. The game’s only power play tally was assisted by Brian Johnson.

Babkirk also played a major role in the Sharks’ first go-ahead goal, blasting an ice-level slap shot that was redirected in the crease by Kyle Quick. Sebastian Kanally was also credited with a helper. The goal was the first of the series to trigger the decades-old Wheatley tradition of a fish being thrown onto the ice surface by spectators. The following two Sharks

tallies inspired the same response from the elated crowd.

The Flyers, applying far greater offensive pressure than they managed in Game 1, came up with the equalizer with 80 seconds left in the middle period. Dorman tallied his second of the game by snapping a sharp angle, ice-level shot just inside Tremblay’s left post.

Both teams approached the third frame desperate to pot the game-winner, but Tremblay and his determined blue liners slammed the doors on all Alvinston attempts to earn their second lead. Woelk’s goal was assisted by Dan Matoski and Brett Babkirk, the latter earning his third point of the game.

The Sharks added an insurance goal with 2:40 on the game clock, winning a scramble for a loose puck inside the faceoff circle to the left of the Flyers’ net. The play ended with a short rush capped by Kanally’s third goal and seventh point of the series. Quick and Riley Babkirk drew assists, each adding their sixth point within the same two games.

The shorthanded Flyers pulled Morreau for a fifth skater with about a minute remaining, but were unable to alter the score.

“They built up their game plan and it forced us off of ours,” Galerno noted. “We had to readjust for the third period.”

Craig Adamson opened the scoring in Game 3 with the only goal of the opening 20 minutes, assisted by Brendon Anger and Brett Babkirk. Johnson scored early in the second period on feeds from Austin Fontaine and Woelk, the first of three Sharks power play markers. Quick’s game winner finished the scoring for the second period with assists coming from Woelk and Brett Babkirk.

Riley Babkirk added to Wheatley’s lead before Joe Archer and Chad Vaneyk pulled the Flyers to within two goals. Riley Babkirk and Johnson each struck again to re-establish the Sharks’ four-goal lead. Third-period assists on Wheatley goals were credited to Kanally (2), Quick, Zack Wilson and Eric Rivard.

Shots were even at 33 apiece, although Wheatley was three for nine on power plays while Alvinston was held to zero for three.

Shots were also comparable for Game 4, where the Sharks managed 36 while the Flyers took 35. Tremblay again won the goaltending battle, this time in a 6-1 decision.

Fontaine and Kanally potted the first two goals before Archer replied for a 2-1 Wheatley lead after 20 minutes. Quick buried the next three, netting the only two goals on the second period and the first of two in the final frame. Fontaine completed the scoring with just under eight minutes remaining. Sharks assists were provided by Johnson (2), Woelk (2), Quick, Sawatzky, Brett Babkirk (2), Riley Babkirk, Kanally and Mike Reid.

The Sharks were again lethal on special teams, adding four power play goals and another while shorthanded. Wheatley was four for 14 with the man advantage while Alvinston managed one for four.

If the Canadiens go on to eliminate the Flags, they will face the Sharks in the semi finals. If instead the Flags manage to win the next three, the Sharks will take on the winner of the Blenheim/Dresden series. The schedule for Wheatley’s Round 2 series has not yet been established.

In the playoff points race, the top four positions were all occupied by Sharks as of Tuesday morning (Feb. 12) — Quick has 12, Kanally 11, Riley Babkirk nine and Brett Babkirk eight.

MONDAY FEBRUARY 18

Rhine Danube Peewee girls win one, tie two

This past weekend the Southpoint Stars Rhine Danube Peewee girls played three Provincial Playdown games as part of an eight-game round robin series with the eventual winner representing the region in the Provincial tournament in Ottawa in early April.

Thursday night the girls travelled to Blenheim to take on Kent County. In a very well played contest, Southpoint came away with a 1-1 tie.

Kent County got on the board first with a power play goal midway through the second period.

Southpoint kept pressing and at the 9:36 mark of the third period, Emily Hyatt scored to tie things up, winning a race to the puck and cutting to the net to beat the Kent County netminder. Connie Wiebe and Corinne Jackson assisted on the goal.

Natalie Edmondson played well in net for the Stars and gave them an opportunity to come away with a point.

Saturday afternoon the Stars travelled to Sarnia to take on the Sting. Southpoint couldn’t get their legs going in this contest but managed to keep the Sting off the scoreboard. Cassidy DeGroote earned the shutout, backstopping the Stars to a 0-0 tie. The Stars escaped Sarnia coming away with another valuable point on the road.

The third game in four days saw the Stars travel to Lakeshore for a Sunday tilt with the Lightning. After a good night’s rest, the Stars once again had some jump in their step and opened the scoring at the 9:15 mark of the first period when Bailey Brown beat the Lightning netminder from in close. The 1-0 goal was assisted by Bryanna Rodrigues and Emily Hyatt.

The action remained tight and Lakeshore tied things at 1 midway through the second period on a screen shot through a maze of players in front of the Southpoint net.

With the game winding down, Lakeshore called a timeout with less than a minute remaining and a face-off in their end. Charly Demers got the puck at the point and fired a shot that was redirected by Emily Hyatt in front of the net, beating the Lightning goalie with 16

seconds remaining. The Stars killed the remaining time on the clock and came away with a 2-1 win.

Natalie Edmondson came up big on several occasions in the Stars net securing a road win and a valuable two points.

RFH Novices fall short

Saturday, February 9 the Southpoint Reid Funeral Home novice travel team found themselves in Harrow to take on the Erie Northshore Storm. The Capitals came out fast and furious, with the play going straight into the Erie end where Nolan Ford fired home a pass from Massimo West, who was working hard in the corner and sent the pass out front of the net tape to tape, just 37 seconds in.

The Capitals held the 1-0 lead until the halfway point, when Erie scored three unanswered goals in a four-minute span to take a 3-1 lead into the second period. Erie scored two more goals in the second period to take a 5-1 lead into the third.

Reids fought back early in the third period with a goal from Gerrin Church as he pounded a rebound in off the shot of Mathew Enns. The Capitals pulled within two as they scored on the power play. They were buzzing around the Erie end when Nolan Ford got his second goal of the night, with assists going to Mikey Church and Kanaan Gale. This was too little too late though, as Erie scored another three unanswered goals to win 8-3.

The Reid Funeral Home Capitals next see action this coming weekend at the Motor City Cup Tournament in Southgate, Michigan, and then they will return to Bluewater Playoff action.

Grey Cup Stops in Leamington

Leamington mayor John Paterson is pictured above with three-time Canadian Football League champion and Toronto Argonaut Walter Spencer and Windsor-born Daryl Townsend of the CFL’s Montreal Alouettes, who brought the league’s Grey Cup to town for a surprise visit. The Argonauts won the 100th annual Grey Cup in November of last year against the Calgary Stampeders. Spencer and Townsend’s visit was part of an effort to promote Top Player, Spencer’s training club for youth.

Hockey Day in Canada

These young skaters from the Tecumseh Select Seven were practicing in Tecumseh on an outdoor ice rink as part of Hockey Day in Canada celebrations which took place across Canada on Saturday, February 9. (Photo submitted)

ball during a Monday, Feb. 4 WECSSAA senior boys basketball game at UMEI. The visiting Maranatha squad had an explosive third quarter to put the game away en route to a 59-22 win.

Golden Years mini golf

Fifty-three golfers managed a respectable 95 aces over 36 holes on February 7 at Colasanti’s.

Leading the pack was Pete Daudlin, Audrey Knox and Bill Ward with 5 each, followed by Murray Cascadden, Barry Sweet and Pat Womack with 4 each. Dropping 3 apiece were Cam Keith, Bill Mayville, Winnie Moore, Andy Orsini, Colleen Pearse, Bill Taylor, Shirley Thiessen, John Vlodarchyk, Bryon Walker and Ken Womack. Chipping in with 2 each were Iggy Arner, Gord Ellis, Lloyd Honey, Laurie Hylton, Murray Knox, Rose Taylor, Doug Vickery, Steve Vigh, Gerrit Vriesen, Eleanor Wilkinson and Gerry Wilkinson. Rounding out the ace parade with 1 each were Cheryl Allan, Jim Allan, David Bezaire, Eleanor Brook,

Ken Brook, Madeline Butler, Carolyn Daudlin, Ethel Ferguson, Gary Honey, Tom Hyatt, Floyd Johnson, Betty McManus, Barbara Murphy, Morley Scratch, Linda Walsh and Donna Wiebe.

Low score for 9 holes went to Bill Ward with a strong 16. Managing 17 were Mary Ann Vickery, Iggy Arner with 2, Winnie Moore, Cam Keith, Audrey Knox and Bill Taylor.

An 18-hole score of 35 was registered by Mary Ann Vickery, followed by Bill Ward, Tom Hyatt and Pete Daudlin with 36. Thirtyseven was recorded by Ken Womack, Iggy Arner, Can Keith and Audry Knox. Bill Ward led the field for 36 holes with a strong 71. Pete Daudlin came in with a 74, while Mary Ann Vickery and Tom Hyatt managed 75. Iggy Arner had a 76 and Gerry Wilkinson a 77.

A tie for 1st place honors was claimed by Team Aces with a score of 235 (Gary Honey, Pete Daudlin, Shirley Thiessen, Eunice Cascadden), and Team Kings (Linda Walsh, Tom Hyatt, Bill Ward). Second place with 237 went to Team Jacks (Rose Taylor, Gerald Wilkinson, Eleanor Wilkinson). Third place was captured with a 240 by Team 6 (Bill Mayville, Julia Kos, Cam Keith).

Next golf date is February 14. The day kicks off at 9:00 a.m. with coffee and donuts, so don’t be late.

Leamington Rotary Club Donates $500 to Jumpstart Program

This past December the Leamington Rotary Club changed the venue for their annual Christmas tree sale to the Canadian Tire Store where Rotarians and Canadian Tire staff sold 200 trees. On Fri. Feb. 1 the Rotary Club presented a $500 cheque to the Canadian Tire Leamington Jumpstart Program. This program removes barriers so local children who may not have the ability to participate in organized sports and recreation can do so. Participation increases a child’s chance for success in life. All donations to the program are welcome. From left to right: Diane Samson, President of the Leamington Rotary Club, with Canadian Tire staff members Julie Mellow, Darlene Ruth, Pierre Marcotte (proprietor), Cindy Gallant, Frances Viola and Andrew Piper.

County bridge results

Leamington Half Century Centre on Mon. Feb. 4: 1st Joyce and Sandy Gammie; 2nd Eileen Edwards and Jack Warmenhoven; 3rd Bob Branton and Don Franks; 4th Rose Hills and Joyce Moran. Games are played each Monday at 12:45 p.m. Members and new members welcome.

Kingsville Bridge Club on Wed. Feb. 6: North/South – 1st Bob Branton and Jack Warmenhoven; 2nd Jeanne Manners and Shirley Plant; 3rd Sandy and Joyce Gammie. East/West – 1st Derek Parry and Dave Derbyshire; 2nd Chris Brennan and Bill Chaplin; 3rd Jim Perkes and Roger Cote. Bridge is played every Wednesday, 7 p.m., at the Lion’s Hall in Kingsville. For further info call 519-738-4939.

In other bridge news…

Wheatley Friendship Club on Tues. Feb. 5: 1st Dave Derbyshire, 2nd Vi Major, 3rd Pauline Mikolash. Contact bridge is played on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. New members are always welcome, with free bridge lessons for those who would like to learn. If you enjoy playing euchre or pepper, you’ll love playing bridge.

In 2011 Leamington District Memorial Hospital (LDMH) underwent a strategic planning process which produced new mission, vision and values for the organization. In 2012, focus groups with the community, staff, volunteers, and physicians were involved in the development of a new Charter of Patient Rights and Responsibilities.  The Leamington District Memorial Hospital Charter of Patient Rights and Responsibilities sets out principals to improve peoples experiences of using LDMH health services, and to enable our patients and their families to become more involved in their healthcare decisions.

Saturday, February 16

March 2

NEIL�SEDAKA

March 9

JOSH�TURNER Friday, April 19

NATALIE�COLE Friday, April 26

Sunday, April 28

CHICAGO Sunday, May 19

Tickets on sale now!

THUNDER�FROM� DOWN�UNDER Friday, May 31

Tickets on sale now!

March 29 JOHN�PINETTE Friday, April 5 BOZ�SCAGGS Saturday, April 13

Carol Kerr Trio

The Charter supports LDMH’s Quality Strategy and is an information document for patients, their families and members of the public which sets out what you can expect when you receive care from LDMH. It also details what LDMH expect of you in return; to help it work effectively and make sure its resources are used responsibly.

LEAMINGTON DISTRICT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL CHARTER OF PATIENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

“Our commitment to you and what you can do to help us”

As a patient and/or substitute decision maker you have the right to…

• Be safe from harm in our Hospital

• Be called by your name

• Be treated in a compassionate and respectful way

• Understand and participate in decisions regarding your care

• Refuse to receive care you don’t want

• Have your personal health information remain private Know what is in your health record

• Have your questions answered in language you understand

• Receive care that meets quality standards

• Be told early in the visit your expected discharge date

You and/or your substitute decision maker have the responsibility to…

• Be polite and respect other patients, visitors and people involved in your care

• Give accurate information to help plan your care

• Ask questions of the people giving your care

• Accept responsibility for the choices and decisions you and/or your substitute decision maker make about your care

• Accept responsibility for any personal belongings you keep in hospital

• Name one person as your contact person so your family members can get information about you through that person

• Respect Hospital property

• Limit the number of visitors you have in hospital

• Take part in planning your care

• Tell us if you are not satisfied with the care you received

• Be prepared to leave the hospital by 11 a.m. once discharged

How to tell us you’re not satisfied…

• Tell the nurse caring for you or

• Call the Patient Representative at extension 4118 or Ask to speak to the Manager

• Advise your attending physician

We want you to leave our Hospital completely satisfied. Please let us know what we did well and what we need to improve.

SOUTHPOINT SUN

SOUTHPOINT SUN

CALL NOW!

FIORE TOWER

2 bdrm apartment and penthouse available in Leamington. Located near shopping. Util incl, on-ste mgmt, secure building, laundry, elevator, party room. Call 519-326-4622 to inquire. tf

TWO BEDROOM DUPLEX

in Leamington. Fridge and stove, full unfinished basement with laundry hookup, $600 per month plus utilities. First and last required. Available now. Call 519326-8015. ja9-tf

APT FOR RENT- Large1 bedroom apt. Free water & parking, fridge & stove. Call 519-326-7076. ja30--feb20

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT for rent, $575 plus utilities. Call 519-398-8463. fe6-13

LARGE WATERFRONT 4 bedroom in Leamington. $1000 per month plus utilities. First and last. Available April 1st. Call 519-322-0031. fe6-13

SPACIOUS & BRIGHT 1 bedroom 900 sq.ft. upper unit townhome for rent April 1. $800/mth includes utilities, 5 major appliances, digital cable, rear deck. Kattie 519.326.7253. fe13-tf

1 bedroom available. Fridge, stove, dishwasher, secure building with 24 hour surveillance & elevator. Call 519-326-8746 or 519-564-5772 tf

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

GOING FAST!

Leamington Heights

SERVICES

CALL KAHL RECYCLINGWe come to you and haul away your junk. Scrap metal and appliances are free. Everything else has a fee. Call Ken 519-322-8305, 519-326-8559. ja16-tf

INDOOR/OUTDOOR CARPENTRY - Repairs, vinyl siding, windows, doors, painting, flooring, fences, decks and sheds. Free estimates. 35 years experience. 519-566-8408, Bill. fe13-mr20

Wednesday, March 6 9

Beautiful, secure building in a good location. 1 and 2 bedrooms available. Utilities and parking included. Call John 519-326-0383 Pager 519-563-4165 ja9-tf

3 BEDROOM COUNTRY home. Town water, high efficient furnace. First and last. Call 519-682-2888. fe13

surroundings. Fridge, stove, utilities included. 515 Dalhousie, Amherstburg 519-736-7800

400 Oak St. E., Leamington BEAUTIFUL1 & 2 bdrm suites, UTIL INCL! Laundry, social room with events, secure building. Let us WOW you. Call today! 519-324-9610 realstar.ca tf

AT HOME WITH SKYLINE!

234 & 238 Erie St. 1, 2 & 3 BDRMs from $709 incl. Quiet area. Top notch security. 3 appliances. Underground parking. Games room. Perfect for seniors. 519.329.0983 Skylineonline.ca fe6-27

INCOME TAX PREPARATION - $30 per return, includes efiling. 519-3262770. fe13-mr6

GOING SOUTH FOR the winter? Home checks for insurance purposes. Honest, reliable, retired, certified tradesperson with references. Kingsville, Ruthven area. Daily, weekly, bi-weekly. Reasonable rates. Call 519-326-0721. fe13-20

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

QUALITY GUITAR REPAIR by Reese. Will service all stringed instruments. Over ten years experience, custom work available as well. Next day pickup upon request. Cell: 226-344-1142 Home: 519-825-4707. ma30-tf

FIREWOOD - PICKUP OR delivered, or cut your own. Very reasonable. Phone 519-326-7424. fe6-27

ANTIQUE FREE-STANDING wood stove / fireplace. Excellent condition. $400 or best offer. Call 519-3221203. fe6-13

GREEK DINNER - Saturday, February 16, Leamington United Church, 5:00 – 6:00 pm hors d’oeuvres. Dinner 6:00 pm $25/person. Call 519-326-9461 for tickets. fe13

YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, Charlie Brown - Sun Parlour Players Community at The Bank Theatre & Meeting Place, 20 Erie St. South, Leamington. February 2224. General admission $10; Youth (12 & under) $5. Tickets available at Guardian DrugsLeamington, Mary Katherine Shop - Kingsville, The Party & Discount Store - Wheatley. For more info call 519-3268805. fe13-20

CONCERT (3:30 P.M.) AND Roast Beef Dinner (5:30 p.m.) at Knox Presbyterian Church, Leamington. Sunday, February 24. Program: Welsh tenor Gwyndaf Jones, pianist Alde Calogcagon, and daughter Emily, flutist. Concert only $10, dinner only $13, to attend both $20. Advance tickets 519-326-4541. fe13-20

NEWFIE JIGGS DINNERSaturday, March 23 at 6:00 p.m. Hosted by the Salvation Army. 88 Setterington Street, Leamington. $12 per person. Limited number of tickets, available at the Thrift Store,129 Erie St. S.

FUN RAISING DODGE BALL TOURNAMENTSaturday, March 30Hosted by Voices of Youth in Community. 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. $45 for team entry or $8 per individual player. All proceeds will be used ot support the Youth Raising Your Self Esteem Community Camp Retreat. Compete for fun prizes! You must be 14 or older to enter the tournament. Registration will take place at the Leamington Recreation Complex Thursday, February 14, 21, 28, 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 23, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. or you can go on line www.resourcenetwork.ca/e vents or email wrodirgues@resourcenetwork.ca for more information.