Southpoint Sun June 2, 2010

A new look at life for 5-year-old Jordan Compassion and persistence pays off

By Sheila McBrayne

Five-year-old Jordan Laguerre is seeing life for the first time and as you can tell from his smile, he likes what he sees.

It was August of 2008 when local Pastor Larry Forsyth saw Jordan on a mountaintop plateau village in Haiti. Forsyth and others were on a mission through Sokavim. In 2008, MGS Horticulture and the First Baptist Church (Leamington) connected with a non-profit group founded and run by Haitians, Sokavim – translation “We Stand for a Better Life”.

The group was looking for an area which would be ideal for agriculture. Forsyth credits Great Lakes Greenhouse and MGS Horticulture for their financial and professional support of the project. “The whole village came out to greet us, it seemed. Except for this one little boy who caught my eye… At the time I thought he was having a seizure… I picked him up and I was told he was blind. He was only three years old. My heart was really touched by this – I have grandchildren that age,” said Pastor Forsyth.

Representatives from MGS Horticulture had come to set up a drip irrigation system so that the locals could grow their own food. “ You know the saying about, ‘give a person a fish and you feed them for a day; teach that person to fish and they’ll eat for life’, that’s what we were doing with agriculture… instead of sending food, we sent people who could help them farm,” said Forsyth.

The group, along with Forsyth, returned in January 2009 with Dr. Julie Ricci, who held an eye clinic at the village. She had brought many donated glasses with her and fit many at the clinic. When she looked at Jordan’s eyes, she soon realized that he had not been born blind, but rather, was born with cataracts. The group returned home with the idea of bringing young Jordan back to Canada to perform a basic cataract surgery. Dr. Ricci even found a London surgeon to perform the surgery free of charge, but the group still needed $10,000 to rent the surgical room at a London hospital. “Raising the $10,000 was a lot of work, but that ended up being the easiest part of our journey to bring Jordan here for the surgery,” said Pastor Forsyth.

When Forsyth and other volunteers returned to Haiti earlier this year, they began a long process of paperwork to secure a birth certificate in order to get a passport and then use the passport to secure a travel visa. Jordaan was denied a visa at first.

Pastor Forsyth credits Chatham-Kent Essex MP Dave Van Kesteren and his staff for helping with the paperwork and giving them a direct line to an immigration officer to help with their case. While in Haiti, the group was just about ready to leave when the 7.0 earthquake devastated Haiti. The earthquake had partially shut down the embassy and when they went to pick up Jordan and his mother’s visas, they were told they had no record of it.

“We were very persistent… We weren’t going to leave without him [Jordan],” said Forsyth. Two years after he had found Jordan in the mountain village, he landed in Canada for his surgery in March. Each eye was done in separate surgeries and after several weeks, Jordan can see for the first time. “After the first surgery he could see colours and after the second surgery he could see characters. It’ll take him time to get used to his newfound gift of sight. “When he returns to Haiti, he’ll be able to attend school and learn like the other children. He’s have much more independence,” said Forsyth. He currently has

about 70 percent vision.

Jordan and his mother have been staying with a local Haitian family living just outside of Kingsville. The group planned to travel to Niagara Falls and then to Montreal where the Haitian Church there had planned a celebration for Sunday, May 30. Jordan and his mother are scheduled to return to Haiti on Tuesday, June 1.

“We never thought of this as a news story while it was unfolding, but I guess everyone likes a story with a happy ending,” said Forsyth. Forsyth and other volunteers plan to return to follow up on the agriculture project in Jordan’s village. The locals have successfully harvested a crop of vegetables with enough to feed the village and sell the excess at market. In fact, the Leamington Rotary Club, who funded one water well there, has offered to drill five to 10 more wells to feed the irrigation drips set up on the two-acre vegetable plot.

“It’s like we were called to a people and not just a place,” said Pastor Forsyth.

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

11The ScriptBreakeven 22Lady AntebellumNeed You Now 34Colbie CaillatI Never Told You 45NickelbackThis Afternoon 53Adam LambertWhattaya Want From Me

69Rob ThomasMockingbird

76Kelly ClarksonAll I Ever Wanted 87 Young Artists For Haiti Waving Flag 910HedleyPerfect 1012 John Mayer ft Taylor Swift Half of My Heart 1116Kate PerryCalifornia Girls 1213Jason DeruloIn My Head 138Bon JoviSuperman Tonight 1411 Lady Gaga & Beyonce Telephone 1514Kris AllenLive Like You Were Dying 1617Train If It’s Love 1719LightsSecond Go 1815One RepublicAll the Right Moves 1922Pink Glitter In The Air 2018Marianas TrenchBeside You

MIX 96.7 is proud to present Hedley, Saturday, September 25 at the WFCU Center!

Listen Sunday at 2 pm & 8 pm for this week’s hottest songs in Country Music! This Week Last Week Artist Song Title 13Miranda LambertThe House That Built Me 22George StraightI Gotta Get To You 31Chris

M.D. Bennie raises big bucks for music program

By Allison Siddall

The gym at Margaret D. Bennie Public School vibrated with excitement as the student body and teachers looked forward to the moment they had been waiting for: Principal Simone was about to lose his moustache!

The school gathered for a prize assembly on Friday, May 21 for the Bennie Fun & Fitness Fundraiser that was held the week prior, where the students collected pledges for participating in a great afternoon of games and co-operative activities. Events included limbo, basketball, four square, skipping, ship-to-shore, tugof-war, parachute, football throw, obstacle course, hula hoop and outside equipment.

As an extra incentive for fundraising, Mr. Simone said he would shave off his mustache if the kids collected a pre-determined amount of money. The students came through in a big way and raised an amazing $4,600 to go towards the purchase of instruments for their music program, now in its second year.

Neil Bot of Synchronicity Hair Salon generously donated his time and did the honours of relieving Mr. Simone of his luxuriant ’stache. Neil started out by giving Mr. Simone a close trim-job, but with the thunderous chant of “Shave it

off! Shave it off!” echoing throughout the gym, Mr. Simone graciously agreed to go for it and Neil finished the job – much to the delight of students and staff alike.

The Margaret D. Bennie students worked extremely hard to raise the money for their music program and were rewarded in a number of ways. There were daily draws, and for each $5 that the students brought in VicePrincipal Sprague - Keane let them reach into a big jar to get a fistful of coins – as many as their hand could hold.

The top three fundraisers each received a Canadian hockey jersey and will go out for lunch at Colasanti’s

with Olympic Gold Medalist Meghan Agosta and Leamington Police Constable Kevin O’Neil. Winners were Beyonca Kelley (Gr. 2-E), Matthew Morin (Gr. 7/8-I) and Brienne Mastronardi (Gr. 4/5-D).

Mrs. Dolan’s Grade 4 was the number one fundraising class with a total of $1,308. They will enjoy a bowling outing for their efforts.

Receiving honourable mention for raising over $100 apiece were Aidan Bonham, Karlee Clark, Carson Labute, Bradley Mantha, Myles Tiessen and Adrien Chalmers.

There was also a draw for four prizes. Karlee Clark won two tickets to Tribute

2010 School’s Out Bash, a concert paying tribute to the talents of Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Hannah Montana, the Jonas Brothers and Lady Gaga, courtesy of Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex. Myles Tiessen took home a badminton set, Noah Friesen won a scooter, and Emma Douma was the lucky winner of a Wii Fit.

The M.D. Bennie students are to be commended for conducting a successful fundraiser. It was a win-win situation all the way around – the music program will get some much-needed instruments, the students felt the pride of a job well done, and Mr. Simone went home with a brand-new look.

PJ Girls ready for Relay For Life June 11 and 12

Relay for Life is June 11th and 12th at the Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village on the Arner Townline. The Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life is an overnight non-competitive relay that celebrates cancer survivors and pays tribute to the lives of loved ones. It involves teams of about 10 people who take turns walking, running or strolling around a track to raise money to support the work of the Canadian Cancer Society. It’s a night of fun, friendship and fundraising to beat cancer.

Funds raised through Relay For Life make a difference. They help the Canadian Cancer Society fund the most promising research projects in the country, provide information services and support programs in the community, and advocate for public policies that prevent cancer and help those living with it.

Last year the Kingsville event raised over $111,000 and contributed to $17.7 million raised across Ontario. More information can be found at www.cancer.ca/relay. Teams from across Essex County will be participating in the 12-hour overnight relay. PJ Girls from Leamington is one of the many teams registered for this year’s event.

MEET THE PJ GIRLS

P.J. GIRLS Team Members: Captain Mandy Stein, Jen Bradford, Erin Bradley, Nicole Fyke, Maria Garganta, Sarah Guenther, Kelly Harb, Amy LaRose, Jen Morin, Gina Smith, Liza Wass, Gail Westlake.

Our Inspiration: We have all had cancer touch our lives in one way or another. Whether it has been a family member or friend, we relay to support them, honour them and remem-

ber them. We give 12 hours to the fight against cancer and it could add years to the lives of others!

Our Background: The team was formed in 2008. We are all local home daycare providers belonging to the Windsor & Essex County HCPN (Home Care Providers Network) with the exception of Kelly and Gail, who are family member recruits of Amy LaRose. Our team name reflects the fact that we have chosen to wear pajamas as our “team costume”.

This year, Mandy Stein and Jen Bradford have

Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life is more than just a It is an opportunity to get together with family and friends celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and fight back in the hope of finding a cure.

fun, fulfilling, and your participation gives strength to our eradicate cancer. Walk with us in this inspirational 12-hour event as we come together and fight to make cancer history.

Kingsville – Friday, June 11 - 7 p.m.

Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 2:

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

Leamington District Memorial Hospital Foundation's 17th Annual Charity 18 Hole Golf Tournament at Erie Shores Golf and Country Club, Leamington, 1:00 p.m. Cost of $130 per golfer includes: 18 holes of golf and steak barbecue dinner. Every ticket holder is automatically entered into a draw for a $500 gift certificate from Erie Shores. Proceeds will benefit Leamington Hospital by acquiring Cardiac Equipment. For tickets, phone 519-326-2373, ext. 4143.

Shooter's Photography Club Meeting from 7-9:30 p.m. at Colasanti's Tropical Garden's, 1550 Road 3E, Ruthven. Guest speake (photographer), Bob Gallagher will speak about "Lenstouring My WorldMy Photographs." For information contact Ann Cotter at 519-733-3266 or anncott@gmail.com. Further details at facebook.com; search Shooter's Photography Club. Everyone Welcome.

THURSDAY, JUNE 3:

Pasta Dinner Fundraiser at Colasanti's Tropical Gardens, Ruthven, from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Adults

$12, Kids $8, Under 3 Free. Door prizes, auction, 50/50 draw, mini-golf. Proceeds to Canadian Cancer Society's "Treking Ducks" Relay for Life Team. For tickets call Vanessa at 519-981-8042. The Wheatley Two Creeks Association will meet at the Wheatley Legion. The meeting begins at 7:00. Everyone is invited.

FRIDAY, JUNE 4:

Broadway and Gospel Music Concert at St. Josephʼs Church, 310 Sherk Street, Leamington, on Friday, June 4th at 7 p.m., featuring Music Express. Tickets are available in the office at St. Michaelʼs Church (29 Elliott St., 326-2643), Fletchers Cleaners (245 Erie St.) and Setteringtonʼs Gift Shop (13 Russell). Adults are $10 and students are $8. Tickets will also be available at the door. Proceeds to benefit World Youth Day.

Pasta Dinner at St. Paulʼs Anglican Church, 92 St. Paul Street, Essex from 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm. Adults $8.00, children 6-12 $4.00, children under 6 free. Meal includes pasta (meat or vegetarian), bread, salad, drink and dessert. All are welcome.

SATURDAY, JUNE 5: Cottam Street Festival on Talbot Street in Cottam. Annual Yard Sale takes place in the morning. Activities starting at 3:00 p.m. - entertainment, wood carving, skippers, pole walking demo, children's activities, carriage rides, tug of war, K-9 demo, D.J. and karaoke, belly dancers, door prizes draw. Events conclude at 11 pm. Mom to Mom Sale from 10:00am - 2:00pm at Kinsmen Recreation Complex, 249 Sherk St. Leamington. 60+ tables of kids stuff. Admission $1, children free. For more information visit www.southpointminorhockey.com. Fundraising Dinner at Erie Shores Winery, 410 County Road 50 West, Harrow. Cocktails at 5:00pm; dinner at 6:00 pm. Silent auction and Entertainment. Tickets $25. Proceeds go to the Harrow Health Team, Relay for Life. Tickets can be purchased at Harrow Health Centre, 1480 Erie St South Harrow or call 519-738-2000. Mennonite Community Festival at UMEI, 6th Concession, west of Hwy. 77, Leamington, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Pancake breakfast at 8 a.m. Also featuring a Farmer's Market, home-made Mennonite sausage, pies, flowers, crafts and more. Quilt auction at 11 a.m., quilt raffle at noon, golf challenge and music in the park. For children, there's train rides, face painting, pony rides and a kid's fun run at 10 a.m. Admission and parking is free.

Book, video, DVD, CD and more yard sale from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. at Honest Auto, Hwy #27 & 34, Cottam. Proceeds to Kittenaide.

Tilbury Manor, 16 Fort St., Tilbury, will be holding their annual spring penny sale and bake sale from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Gift baskets. All funds raised support residents' recreation programs.

Children's Auditions for the Talbot Trail Theatre Company's 2010 presentation of "OZ!" from 1-4 p.m. at Wheatley Baptist Church. Ages 6 & up. Please come prepared to sing "O Canada" (without accompaniment) and deliver a short spoken piece (memorized or read). For more information, please contact Susan Fulmer, by calling (519) 825-7433.

The Essex County Purple Martin Association will meet at 9 a.m. at the Orchard View Golf Course, Talbot Road (Old Hwy #3) west of Ruthven. All are welcome. Refreshments. Please phone 519-776-5777 for further details.

SUNDAY, JUNE 6:

Recreational walk-a-thon, in support of all those who are currently serving in the military, or who has served. Taking place at 3:00 p.m., starting at 145 Talbot Street West, Cottam, 3.8 miles. For those who have a soldier in your family, or close to you, or just to show your support. Bring a picture of the soldier you are supporting. Obtain a picture of yourself walking and send it to your soldier and let them know you appreciate them. Information will be available for anyone wanting to adopt a soldier, or become a pen pal. Bring comfortable walking shoes and water. Please call or email if you are planning to attend - Pam Squire - 519-839-6063; psquire47@hotmail.com. Flea Market from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Queen St, Lakeside Pavilion, Kingsville. Proceeds to Kittenaide. The Windsor Chapter of the Crohnʼs & Colitis Foundation of Canada hosts the Annual Heel ʼnʼ Wheel-a-Thon at Riverside Sportsmen Club, 10835 Riverside Dr E. Windsor, off Ganatchio Trail. Registration starts at 11:00 am with the kick off at 12:00 pm. Come out for a great day of friends and family and fundraise to find the cure. For pledge forms or information, please contact Pino at(519)962-9278 or(519)564-9470.

MONDAY, JUNE 7:

Bring your lawnchairs to the Leamington Marina for an evening of music with Brad, Lynn, Jack, and John from 6:30 to 8:00 pm, weather permitting. Enjoy a variety of secular and gospel music.

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is offering a seminar on "Helping Pre-Schoolers Develop Coping Skills for Life" tonight from 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at Zehrs Great Foods Community Room, 7201 Tecumseh Rd. E., Windsor. Administered by a Public Health Nurse. Registration required. Call the Health Unit at 519-258-2146, ext. 1340.

TUESDAY, JUNE 8:

Wheatley Baptist Church, 47 Talbot St.E., OEYC Presents: Fuel Up For Fun. Children and parents make and ʻfuel upʼ on healthy snacks and get movinʼ and groovinʼ with games and activities! June 8, 9, 10 Time: 10:00 -11:30am. No Childcare. Adult & Child. Register by June 1 @ 358-1451x0

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9

Leamington & District Half Century Centreʼs 13th Annual Golf Tournament, scramble format (rain date Wednesday, June 16) to be held at Talbot Trail Golf Course, Wheatley. Shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. Followed by an 8 piece perch lunch. To register call Sandra at 519-326-2521. This is a fund raiser and is open to all. Fee: $45 and $55 (with cart) includes golf, prizes and lunch, guests who wish to attend the meal only can for a cost of $15.

The LAERC will meet at 6:30 pm. at Knox Presbyterian Church Hall in Leamington. We, the Leamington Area Ecumenical Refugee Committee invite you to join our team in making a difference in the life of the refugees we are sponsoring. We are planning on welcoming our 6th family, & really could use your help. If you wish to make a financial contribution - that would make a difference too! For further info please contact Carolyn Reid 519-326-6776.

FRIDAY, JUNE 11:

Wheatley Baptist Church, 47 Talbot St.E. OEYC

Presents: Special Guest Fire Fighter! The Wheatley Fire Department will be stopping by with their Fire Truck. Come out and meet your local Fire Fighters, donʼt forget to bring your cameras. Time: 10:3011:30am. No Childcare. Adult & Child. No Registration SUNDAY, JUNE 13

7th Annual Bowl-a-Thon at Rose Bowl Lanes in Windsor, in support of Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario. Pledge sheets available at Leamington, Essex, Kingsville & Windsor McDonalds. Bowl-a-thon is at 1 pm.

During the summer, the beaches in the Leamington area a great place to relax, cool down and have fun. However, swimmers may be at risk to a number of illnesses caused by certain types of bacteria found in the water. The most common are stomach and intestinal illnesses with symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Swallowing contaminated water is the main way to get sick from these. Always avoid swallowing untreated water. Bacteria entering the body through the eyes, ears, nose, or broken skin can cause infection. It is good practice to shower or rinse yourself with clean water after you go swimming in the lake.

Health units monitor beach water through water sampling. It is important for you to know that beach water quality changes day-to-day and even hour-to-hour. Water sampling data reveals that weather conditions can affect water quality. Bacteria levels in the water increase when it rains and when a strong wind blows. Several days of extreme heat can also increase bacteria numbers.

You should not swim for at least 24 to 48 hours after a rainfall or if the water is cloudy from a strong onshore wind. Calm clear water is usually associated with lower bacteria levels, while rough or cloudy water often means unsafe water. Before you go swimming, assess the conditions and remember: if you can’t see your feet under the water when you are standing waist deep, it’s not a good idea to swim.

www.seacliffeinn.com BOB GABRIELE performing live

Opera Singer Erin Armstrong Erin Armstrong Is Offering A fun and fully interactive camp Including: Vocal, Instrumental, Drama, Dancing and Drumming and For children ages 6-12 From Aug 23-27or Aug 30- Sept 3 Recital for both camps will be on Friday, September 3 To register, please call 519-890-7463 Join Erin for the week or any day from 8 am to 5 pm Kids are guaranteed to have a whale of a time!

Community Living – quality living

By Sheila McBrayne

“Quality of life is not charity, it’s justice.” That was the message from Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley to all the mayors of Essex County on Wednesday, May 26 at the 5th Annual Community Living “Luncheon With the Mayors”.

For the past five years, Community Living Essex County has held a public awareness event to celebrate the month of May as Community Living Month in Ontario. This year organizers opened up the luncheon to local business leaders and the media to help communicate the organization’s credo of “inspiring possibilities”.

“We’re here to educate and engage you. We want you to walk away knowing what we do as an organization,” said Tony DeSantis, Manager, Community Relations and Resource Development for Community Living Essex County.

Special guest speaker Mayor Bradley talked about his “Do The Right Thing” challenge made in January to communities and municipalities across Ontario. He challenged all communities to do the right thing and hire persons who have a disability. “As mayors, it’s easy to do the minimum and not the maximum, but we have to do more than that,” said Mayor Bradley. “I didn’t invent this challenge… Community Living of Sarnia-Lambton brought the challenge to me, and I passed the challenge on to all municipalities,” said Bradley. Representatives from Community Living Essex County were soon attending Council meetings across the county to meet with the mayors to secure their support. Mayor John Adams signed a pledge in support of hiring persons with a disability.

Mayor Bradley asked the Essex mayors to go back and look at their by-laws in regards to group homes. “Most municipalities will be surprised to see that you probably have a minimum distance required from residential areas clause in your by-laws,” said Mayor Bradley. “I know, I was surprised to find out that Sarnia had such restrictions in the books,” he said. “It’s discrimination. We [City of Sarnia] have removed discrimination from our city… It’s about simple basic human decency,” concluded Mayor Bradley.

As part of the presentation, Chris Cervini of Lakeside Produce shared the positive experiences his organization has had in hiring a local person with an intellectual disability in his greenhouse operation through Community Living Essex County. “My dad [Anthony Cervini] told me, ‘Life’s about two things – taking chances and giving chances.” Twentythree-year-old Phil Diaz works on the packing line and has proven to be a very dedicated employee. The Community Living Essex County new website – www.communitylivingessex.org – has the following story about Phil.

Ready, willing and able best describes Phil Diaz, a resident of Leamington who demonstrates every day how prepared, willing and able he truly is in his full-time job at Lakeside Produce, one of the largest greenhouse operations in Southern Ontario.

An opportunity to work has turned out to be a win-win situation for all involved, with Lakeside Produce hiring one very proud, focused and devoted worker in Phil on the pack line. According to Warehouse Manager Joe Spano, Phil is the first one there every morning and the last one to leave each day. “He rides here on his bicycle regardless of the weather and arrives for work early, full of enthusiasm. And after putting in a full day, he stays to get things set up for the next day – always with a smile.”

Company President Chris Cervini agrees that hiring Phil is a perfect fit and wants to continue expansion of the program by hiring others through Community Living Essex County. “He is truly grateful to have this job and we are lucky to have him. Phil works extremely hard and has become a real perfectionist and role model for others,” said Cervini. “He loves it so much he felt guilty receiving a paycheque at first. Now I think he appreciates the independence it brings.”

“I was looking for a chance to prove myself and this job has given me that opportunity,” says Phil. “Having a real job that pays real money has increased my confidence and improved my life.” Phil lives with his parents and one day hopes to find a place of his own and get married. In the meantime, he continues to thrive at his new job where he is proving to everyone that he is always ready, willing and able to learn.

To find out more about how your business can become more socially responsible, please don’t hesitate to call Bonnie Vidal in the Leamington/Kingsville area at 519-776-6483, ext. 417.

Signs of the time...

YOU KNOW YOU ARE LIVING IN 2010 WHEN

1. You accidentally enter your PIN on the microwave.

2. You haven’t played solitaire with real cards in years.

3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of three.

4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.

5. Your reason for not staying in touch with friends and family is that they don’t have e-mail addresses.

6. You pull up in your own driveway and use your cell phone to see if anyone is home to help you carry in the groceries.

7. Every commercial on television has a website at the bottom of the screen.

McThoughts McThoughts

8. Leaving the house without your cell phone, which you didn’t even have the first 20 or 30 (or 60) years of your life, is now a cause for panic and you turn around to go and get it.

10. You get up in the morning and go on line before getting your coffee.

11. You start tilting your head sideways to smile. : )

12 You’re reading this and nodding and laughing.

13. Even worse, you know exactly to whom you are going to show this to.

14. You are too busy to notice there was no #9 on this list.

15. You actually looked back up to check that there wasn’t a # 9 on this list.

Now that you are laughing at yourself, go ahead, share this to your friends and if you tried to lick your elbow, well, so did I and it’s true you can’t lick your elbow.

AMay zing

The month started with a surprise birthday party for me on the occasion of turning 50. I truly was surprised, and who wouldn’t be if your birthday was three weeks removed. More than a collection of some of my favourite people from near and far, I was presented with a Paul Harris Fellowship for my contribution to Rotary. Great night.

Next morning, my gal pal and I flew to New York and spent the next five days doing just about everything you can do in the sleepless city: Central Park, Top of the Rock, Staten Island and Statue of Liberty tour, museums, breakfast at Tom’s Restaurant (Seinfeld), dinner and too much wine in Little Italy, day tours, night tours, Yankees game, Times Square, two Broadway shows, and getting tickets to join the live tapings of both Regis & Kelly and Letterman. Each and every one of those of experiences was fabulous. For me, the highlight, without question, was walking through the front doors of the historic Ed Sullivan Theatre and enjoying the afternoon taping of the Late Show starring David Letterman. The theatre itself is dripping with television history as well as being a cornerstone of North American pop culture: The Beatles appearances, Elvis was on that stage, George Carlin, Dancing Russian Bears, and on and on.

Letterman was hilarious this day. Russell Crowe was the guest, Paul and the CBS Orchestra were incredibly good,

and Letterman even took time to tease my girlfriend about wearing a Late Night sweatshirt into the studio. He gave her $40 bucks on the spot to compensate for getting “ripped off”. It was a really nice moment.

Following the return home from the Big Apple, it was off to Comerica Park to enjoy the day with some old friends and to watch the Tigers claw the hell of the hated New York Yankees. It was wonderful.

The month also included concert tickets in Toronto to enjoy one of my all-time favourites, James Taylor, who was sharing the bill with legendary writer and performer Carole King. It was a fun concert; great music and an appreciative crowd, who were so comfortable with the lyrics of the dozens of hit music performed it was like being part of a love-fest, world choir or something.

The month also included a family reunion for the Weesenation in Dresden, a tradition of 15 years and blessed time to reacquaint and swap stories with cousins you haven’t visited with since last May.

This past Sunday, there was another Tigers’ tilt at Comerica Park that I really enjoyed. Four of us acquired incredible seats and witnessed “my boys” thump of the Oakland A’s 10-2. It was hot and sunny down first baseline, but it was also heavenly. What’s better than spending a day in a ball park, eating hotdogs, drinking cold beer and watching your team score runs all afternoon?

The month also included lots of golf, including playing in a fun tournament at one of my favourite courses in Mitchell.

Weese’s Weese’s Pieces Pieces

I even played decently and splurged on a new putter. The month will also be memorable for a couple of other reason not so joyous and fun. Broadcast legend and voice of the Tigers, Ernie Harwell, a voice that will forever be recorded and played over and over in my memory, died in May of this year. I met up with Ernie a couple of times in my lifetime. He was truly the “honest to God” gentleman as advertised by people who really knew him.

And then there’s my mom. She is recuperating, ever so slowly, at Hotel Dieu-Grace Hospital in Windsor. Mom underwent delicate brain surgery on the 20th of May to remove tumours. Mom is now approaching 74 years old and this was her third, and likely her last, surgery. If you’re ever short of folks to pray for, please include my mom. She definitely is going to need some intervention to get back on her feet anytime soon.

May is over now… finally. It was quite a ride and offered much more than May flowers. It was really something. Now it’s back to reality. Bring on June and the humdrum of everyday life, routine and alike. It’s ironic and amazing at how much you can actually miss “nothing”.

S Soouutthhppooiinnt t S Saayyss. .

If you were handed a million dollars right now, to spend however you want, what would you do with the money?

Location: Out and about around Leamington

Lamia Tannous Jacobs Shoes

“One million? Right now? I would travel, pay off the mortgage and all that routine, but mainly I’d travel. I love to travel.”

Laurie Adams Thomson Guardian Pharmacy

“I would help all my kids and the rest of my family get very comfortable, and from that point on retire and just enjoy life!

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

Reader responds to “Local 100-Mile Challenge” editorial

It is time someone sheds some light on this “buy local” trend filtering it’s way throughout our society. Everywhere you look, we are being told to buy whatever we can from local sources, including the May 20 editorial in this newspaper, which sent my head spinning. Does the Sun not understand that we here in the Essex/Windsor area are dependent upon exports of our products to places far beyond this “100 mile” radius of home which is, for whatever reasons, being touted as what “good, environmentally-minded stewards of the land” use as a guideline for purchasing produce, etc?

Look around Leamington. There just is no possible way that all that produce grown in large greenhouse ranges can be consumed within 100 miles of home. Now, imagine if people elsewhere on the continent decided not to purchase Chrysler mini vans because another type of automobile was manufactured closer to their home. What would this do to our local economy?

Now, this is not to mention inputs to production. That lovely tomato someone in “Whereverville” buys did not just grow magically by itself. Unless it was grown organically, the farmer had to use fertilizer which likely had to be trucked in from elsewhere in the country amongst other things required to grow it. This in itself helps to negate the proposed benefits the “locovore” seeks. And what about water? Should someone in a dry region buy local produce if water is scarce in the area and rather than be consumed directly by humans, it was used instead to produce a vegetable? Does this make any sense?

It’s a rule of economics 101... “two parties will exchange goods or services when both of them perceive to be better off after having traded”. This is why we have the standard of living we enjoy in North America, a direct result of specialized large scale production of food and manufactured goods which has led to lower prices. If everything in our lives was produced locally, imagine what you would be paying for everything you purchased, and how your standard of living would drop as a result. Pity the poor who would no longer be able to afford vegetables because the low cost, large-scale producers would no longer be in business! And so next time you bring your nice canvas bag on your bicycle to the farmer’s market to purchase a handful of locally grown vegetables, just remember that people all across North America are thinking the same way as you. A newspaper in our area should be the first to tout the virtues of exporting to regions far beyond our local 100-mile radius from home!

Sincerely, Don Tiessen, Leamington

Patti Farquharson Gr. 1 teacher

Mount Carmel-Blytheswood P.S.

“Pay off my bills, donate some to a worthy cause. I think I’d keep my job, but I’d go on a long trip, give some money to my relatives, and invest the rest.”

Toni Noble Gr. 1/2 teacher

Mount Carmel-Blytheswood P.S.

“I’d have to stop and think about it. I wouldn’t spend it right away. I’d help out my mom first, go on a family vacation, and then I’d put the rest away for later.”

Why Namaste: Namah + te, which means “I bow to you”

“Namaste could be just a casual or formal greeting, a cultural convention or an act of worship. However, there is much more to it than meets the eye. The real meeting between people is the meeting of their minds. When we greet one another with Namaste, it means ‘may our minds meet’, indicated by the folded palms placed before the chest. The bowing down of the head is a gracious form of extending friendship in love, respect and humility.”

Recently, a couple of friends and I attended a ‘hot yoga’ class. Take note of the word ‘hot’, because this is the key difference between this class and other yoga classes that I have been to. I have not looked into exactly what the addition of heat accomplishes, but figure the warmth allows our muscles to stretch a little deeper and the amount of sweat produced has to carry some amount of toxins out of our body.

During my first 1½-hour class, I must admit the first ten minutes were torturous! Fortunately, we had only four in the class that day; sometimes there can be eight or more. The room is naturally bright, with two large full-vista windows on two sides allowing a view of the gardens. The open doorway is curtained off from the rest of the ‘cool’ house and the heat is trapped in!

I tend to have a “bring it on” personality, so I parked myself in front of the fireplace and next to the thermostat on the wall. Perhaps this was what intimidated me during those initial long minutes of the class. The temperature reached 95º plus and the flame had an odd effect on my mind – “I’m melting...”

This is why yoga, if practiced properly, helps to put aside needless thoughts that tend to cause worry. I consciously made myself focus instead on the ‘ugia’ breathing while I envisioned myself on a warm beach or the desert, with the heat radiating naturally from the warmth of the sun. A very different vision than Sarah Jessica Parker and her girlfriends had while in the desert wearing high heels and with cosmos in hand. Hmmm! Sounds refreshing! Not only are high heels not recommend in a yoga class, but you are encouraged instead to be bare-footed. Planting your feet firmly on the ground helps the flow of energy through your body, and it is necessary for the stability that is required as you balance on one foot during many of the poses.

During that first class, even after performing no less than 20 ‘downward dogs’, I did not sweat very much. Since then, I have sweat much more than I do on a 45-minute run. One week, I had to concentrate to maintain my composer during the ‘tree pose’ when my limbs, like branches in a rain forest, dripped loudly on my yoga mat. As fast as I replaced the water, it found its way out through every pore again.

Weekly, I leave the class feeling revitalized and clear-minded. To perform the entire class properly, you cannot think of anything else. My shoulders are relaxed and my head is clear. So, if you are considering attending a yoga class, you can look forward to leaving your stress on the other side of the curtain. Not only is there little space in the room for it, you will find it hard to find your balance if you are carrying it on your back.

NAMASTE

How to Namaste: Bend the arms from the elbow upwards and face the two palms of the hands. Place the two palms together and keep the folded palms in front of the chest. Utter the word Namaste and while saying the word, bow the head slightly.

Chatham-Kent police appeal to public to help locate missing woman

The Chatham-Kent Police Service is looking for assistance in locating a missing woman.

Nellie Bueckert, age 32, was recently reported missing and investigators believe she has been missing since May 17, 2010. It has been reported that she has a diminished mental capacity, and may currently be experiencing a mental health crisis. She is described as a white female, approximately 5’5” tall, 184 pounds, with brown shoulder-length hair, hazel eyes, and visible missing upper teeth. Her current clothing is unknown.

Bueckert has a history of going away without notice. Her usual mode of transportation is walking and she has been found in the past walking or hiding in rural areas. She has contacts in the Leamington, Ridgetown and Aylmer areas, but is not believed to have been in contact with friends or family since January 2010. She has been found in the past hiding in outbuildings (sheds/barns, etc.) and will not seek out help. The Chatham-Kent Police are asking that residents check their properties, including any outbuildings.

If you have any information regarding Nellie Bueckert, contact Detective Constable Paul Brophy at 519-436-6600 ext. 207. Anonymous callers can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Police looking for public assistance

Leamington Police are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying two people. On May 16, a 57-year-old Windsor woman who was staying at Pond’s RV Park on the 5th Concession of Leamington was run down by what is described as a blue 2006 Yamaha Raptor 4-wheel off-road vehicle.

The residents at Pond’s RV Park have had numerous incidents where off-road vehicles are trespassing, creating noise and harassing the residents. On May 16th a group of residents from the park approached a group of what were described as teens on offroad vehicles in an attempt to warn them and identify them. It was at this time that the 4-wheeler struck the woman and took off. Prior to leaving, pictures were taken of the other people that were with him. They are not considered suspects – only witnesses –and police would like to speak to them. The woman who was struck was not seriously injured.

If anyone is able to identify these dirt bikes or the riders they are asked to call the Leamington Police at 326-3214 or Crime Stoppers at 519-258-TIPS.

Joint forces drug investigation results in drug and weapons arrest in Leamington

On Thursday, May 27 the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau (OCEB) Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU), Provincial Weapons Enforcement Unit (PWEU), Essex County OPP Community Drug Action Team (CDAT), Tactical Response Unit (TRU), Provincial Organized Crime Enforcement Team (POCET) and Leamington Police Service executed three search warrants pursuant to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act in the 20 block of Countess Street, the 10 block of Westmoreland Avenue and the 800 block of Talbot Road East in Leamington.

OPP members and Leamington Police attended the above residences and seized several weapons including a loaded 45-calibre semi-automatic handgun, 12-gauge shotgun, and a quantity of drugs including 1 gram of cocaine, 3 grams of marijuana, 3 scales, large Ziploc bag with cocaine residue and various drug paraphernalia.

As a result of the investigation, Jake Thiessen, age 23, from Leamington, was arrested and charged with: Possession of Restricted Firearm with Ammunition; Possession of a Firearm knowing the Possession is unauthorized; Unsafe Storage of Firearm; and Possession of Cocaine.

The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests and charges are pending.

Leamington Police blotter

May 18 – Sometime between 2:30 p.m. and 12:40 a.m., a residence on Marlborough Street East was broken into. A TV and DVD player were taken.

May 18 – A Napoleon barbecue was stolen from the back yard of a residence on Helen Crescent.

May 19 – Sometime overnight, a vehicle that was parked on Talbot Street East was “keyed” and a tire flattened by a nail.

May 21 – Someone entered a classroom at Queen of Peace School sometime overnight and stole a Dell laptop.

May 23 – Early Sunday morning, someone set fire to the recycling bins at Queen Elizabeth Public School causing smoke damage inside.

May 24 – Someone broke into a shed on Noble Avenue and stole two chainsaws. Also, there were six vehicles broken into over this time period. Items taken were a GPS, luggage, Blue Tooth and change.

If you have information on these occurrences or any other, please call the Leamington Police at 326-3214 or Crime Stoppers at 519-258-TIPS.

Area school boards buy new books with provincial funding

MPP Pat Hoy says 130,547 new books have arrived in Lambton-Kent and Windsor-Essex elementary school libraries – helping students improve their literacy skills and develop a love of reading.

“Reading is about more than just practicing the ABCs. It allows students to discover exciting new characters, lands and adventures,” said Hoy, MPP for Chatham-Kent-Essex.

“With a refreshed library collection, students at our local schools will be able to enjoy even more books as they learn to read and learn to love reading.”

• Greater Essex County DSB has purchased about 40,548 new books.

• Lambton-Kent DSB about 31,791 new books.

• Windsor-Essex Catholic DSB: 16,493.

• St. Clair Catholic DSB: 24,052.

• CSD du Centre SudOuest: 12,468.

• CSD des ecoles catholiques du Sud-Ouest: 5,195.

Hoy pointed out that the province negotiated with selected vendors to provide school boards with discounts of up to 50%. These discounts saved school boards across Ontario about $6 million and allowed them to purchase more than two million books –350,000 more than if they had bought the books independently.

The discount agreements with most vendors have been extended for another year, allowing boards to continue to save money when purchasing books – and helping students to continue to benefit from up-

Fifth Concession Bridge contract awarded

On Friday, May 21 Leamington Council met in special session to award the contract to replace the bridge crossing the Fifth Concession Road Drain. This is the bridge just east of the driveway from Blytheswood Public School, not the bridge at the junction of the Fifth and Highway 77. The contract was awarded to Amico Design Build who submitted the low tender in the amount of $272,380.95. Because the tender was still higher than anticipated, town administration and their engineering consultant were able to exercise some options in the tender and lower the cost to just under $242,000.

The contract calls for the construction to begin and end after school has let out for the summer and before it begins in September.

dated library collections.

“By ensuring that our elementary school libraries are stocked with up-to-date and affordable books and resources, we’re giving students more tools to excel at school and preparing them for future success,” said Education Minister Leona Dombrowsky.

To purchase more new books, the six local school boards shared $1,453,747 in targeted funding from the Ontario government; they were also able to use their regular funding to purchase books using the negotiated discounts.

Across the province, boards received an initial investment of $15 million in February 2009 and an additional $10 million in May 2009, for a total investment of $25 million to date.

The books were purchased from among 72 selected vendors – all with a presence in Ontario — that agreed to the negotiated discount.

Over 40,000 additional Grade 3, 6 and 9 students are meeting or exceeding the provincial standard in reading, writing and math, compared to six years ago.

LCBO stores raise funds for the Sunshine Foundation

8th Annual Southwest Outdoors Club

8th Annual Southwest Outdoors Club

8th Annual Southwest Outdoors Club

Mixed 9 Hole Best Ball GOLF DAY

Mixed 9 Hole Best Ball GOLF DAY

Mixed 9 Hole Best Ball GOLF DAY

Mixed 9 Hole Best Ball GOLF DAY

Mixed 9 Hole Best Ball GOLF DAY

Starting June 1, the public can help support the Sunshine Foundation of Canada (Sunshine) by making a donation at any of the more than 600 LCBO stores throughout Ontario. Donation boxes for Sunshine will be displayed at LCBO checkout counters until June 30.

SATURDAY, JUNE 5TH at Talbot Trail Golf Course, Wheatley Shotgun start 1:00 pm

SATURDAY, JUNE 5TH at Talbot Trail Golf Course, Wheatley Shotgun start 1:00 pm

SATURDAY, JUNE 5TH at Talbot Trail Golf Course, Wheatley Shotgun start 1:00 pm

SATURDAY, JUNE 5TH at Talbot Trail Golf Course, Wheatley Shotgun start 1:00 pm

SATURDAY, JUNE 5TH at Talbot Trail Golf Course, Wheatley Shotgun start 1:00 pm

Proceeds to promote Outdoor Youth Activities

Proceeds to promote Outdoor Youth Activities

Proceeds to promote Outdoor Youth Activities

Proceeds to promote Outdoor Youth Activities

Proceeds to promote Outdoor Youth Activities

Prizes include: ATV for Hole-in-One Putting Contest - 1st Place Team

Prizes include: ATV for Hole-in-One Putting Contest - 1st Place Team

Prizes include: ATV for Hole-in-One Putting Contest - 1st Place Team

Prizes include: ATV for Hole-in-One Putting Contest - 1st Place Team

Prizes include: ATV for Hole-in-One Putting Contest - 1st Place Team

Most Honest Team - Closest to the Line Closest to the Pin

Most Honest Team - Closest to the Line Closest to the Pin 8th Annual Southwest Outdoors Club

Most Honest Team - Closest to the Line Closest to the Pin 8th Annual Southwest Outdoors Club

Most Honest Team - Closest to the Line Closest

Most Honest Team - Closest to the Line Closest to the Pin

The Sunshine Foundation of Canada makes dreams come true for children who are challenged by severe physical disabilities or lifethreatening illnesses. Sunshine was founded in 1987 by a Canadian police officer who lost his teenaged son to muscular dystrophy. Sunshine is now a national organization with volunteer chapters across Canada. In its 21-year history, Sunshine has fulfilled more than 6,500 dreams, ranging from family trips to celebrity meetings, and gifts like computers and customized bicycles. Sunshine Dreams allow children to escape from the daily regimen and challenges of living with a severe physical disability or life-threatening illness. For more information, visit www.sunshine.ca

Funding for Leamington’s wastewater treatment plant

On Thursday, May 20, Percy Hatfield, member of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) National Board of Directors and councillor of the City of Windsor, and Dave Van Kesteren, Member of Parliament for Chatham-Kent-Essex, announced Green Municipal Fund (GMF) loan and grant contributions for the Municipality of Leamington. The municipality put the $2,400,000 in funding toward the upgrade of the Leamington Pollution Control Centre (LPCC) to improve the quality of wastewater flowing out of the plant, and upgrade the plant’s ability to manage heavy flows during wet weather.

“FCM’s Green Municipal Fund offers a range of resources and services that specifically address the sustainable community development needs of municipal governments,” said Hatfield. “The financing and knowledge provided by the Fund supports the development of communities that are more environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.”

“The Government of Canada is assisting municipalities across the country in achieving their goal of a cleaner and healthier environment for Canadians through the Green Municipal Fund,” said Mr. Van Kesteren. “Today’s announcement is another example of how our government — in partnership with FCM — is helping Leamington build a greener future for our citizens.”

The LPCC upgrade is one part of an integrated plan that also includes a 20-year sewer separation implementation schedule, which began in 2007 and is ongoing. The upgrade will see the plant transformed into a conventional activated sludge plant with the installation of modern, energy-efficient systems in three phases: installation of a new grit treatment system; conversion of the old mechanical system into a modern “fine bubble diffuser” system; and installation of new tanks to clarify the water. The third phase also includes the creation of a retention pond to hold excess water during wet weather.

The upgrade will also improve the quality of the water flowing out of the plant, reducing suspended solids in the wastewater by 9%. With improved water quality, residents, businesses and tourists will benefit from fewer beach warnings and closures.

The new wet weather retention pond will reduce the amount of water that bypasses the plant during wet weather by 75 to 90%; in turn reducing basement flooding in the community. Improved energy efficiency at the plant will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and operating costs.

“We are pleased to work in partnership with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the federal government in order to renew our infrastructure and protect our environment,” said Mayor John Adams. “This project will strengthen our role in environmental stewardship for years to come.”

The Government of Canada endowed the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) with $550 million to establish the Green Municipal Fund. The fund supports partnerships and leveraging of both public and private-sector funding to reach higher standards of air, water and soil quality, and climate protection.

Putting proceeds of crime to work in Leamington

MPP Pat Hoy has announced that crime fighting efforts in Leamington are getting a boost with an investment by the provincial government of $27,000 from assets seized as proceeds of crime.

“We want to ensure that criminals will not profit from their illegal activities,” said Hoy. “By seizing the proceeds of criminal activity and using them to fight crime, we’re making crime less profitable and helping to keep our community safe.”

Leamington Police Services will use these funds to provide a multi-faceted training program for community service providers for parents and youth to better manage the multistress issues in this area, such as teen violence through bullying, cyber-bullying, the impact of media violence, and parenting. All of these topics will be presented on a wider scale which will tie in to the success of B-RAD (Bullying Relationships Alcohol and Drugs).

This funding comes from assets seized by the province as proceeds of crime.

Ontario’s Proceeds of Crime Front Line Policing Grant Program makes these funds available to municipal police services, First Nations police services and Ontario Provincial Police to fund crime prevention initiatives and equipment.

“We’re making available more resources to help police fight crime. This initiative deprives criminals of the proceeds of crime and provides more resources for our hard-working police who are working to make Ontarians safer and stronger in Leamington and in other communities across the province,” said Rick Bartolucci, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services.

has been the national voice of municipal governments since

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development of sustainable communities to improve quality of life by promoting

effective, and accountable municipal government.

Leamington S.C. United U-17 boys soccer team wins WOYSL L3 cup!

Practices were tough and many, exhibition games were physical and draining, but at 8:10 p.m. on Sunday, May 23 all the hard work paid off. Even the final game itself was not an easy game to win. Neither coach could remember such a dramatic ending to a cup game, but it seemed to be the theme of the weekend.

Early Saturday morning on May 22, the Leamington S.C. United U-17 Boys soccer team made their way to the Vollmer Complex for the annual Western Ontario Youth

Soccer League (WOYSL) kick-off tournament.

The local Windsor and District League (WADSL) includes teams from Windsor and the surrounding areas of Essex County, but the WOYSL league consists of boys travel soccer teams from all across Southwest Ontario.

Last year, the S.C. United group finished first in the L4 division, helping them to move up this year to the L3 level. The team was ready for the move, adding key new

players from Harrow, Cottam and Windsor to their already convincing roster.

The first game was against last year’s cup winners, the London United Mavericks. It was a back and forth contest tied at 2-2 until the dying minutes of the game when S.C. finally put the third goal in the net to come away with a win. Passing and ball control were key elements in their first-ever L3 win.

June 11 & 25 6 to 8 pm

June 2 • 4 • 9 • 16

YOUTH PROGRAMS:

Summer Red Cross Swim Lessons daily for 2 week session; or once a week over the summer SUMMER DAY CAMP ages 4 - 7 & 8 - 12

Youth Specialty Camps: Cheerleading Camp (ages 9 -12) week of July 12

Girls Leadership Camp (ages 13 -15) week of July 19

Boys Leadership Camp (ages 13 –15) week of Aug. 9

California Tennis Camp (ages 10 – 17) offered each week during July (4)x 1 week camps

Youth Karate, Aquatic Leadership Courses, Jumping Jacks Rec. Skipping Program, 4 on 4 Summer Hockey League & Kirk Bowman Hockey Camps, Babysitting Courses, Home Alone Courses, Summer Splash Pass! Tim Horton Free Swims!

ADULT PROGRAMS:

Fitness & Aquatic Fitness –36 Classes per week

Weight & Cardio Equipment, Indoor Walking/Jogging Track (air conditioned cool), Personal Trainers or Personal Nutrition & Wellness Coaches (package pricing available), Scuba Lessons, Masters Swimming, Noon Hour Shinny Hockey, Racquetball, Table Tennis, Squash, 55+ Badminton, First Aid Training, Cardiac Rehab Maintenance Program FREE Child Care – Mornings: Mon & Wed; Evenings: Mon & Tues

The next game, in the early afternoon wasn’t as technically sound. The S.C. team looked out of sync and struggled against the London Marconi Azurri team. Luckily the score ended in a 1-1 tie. This was enough to clinch first place in pool play and give the talented group a bye until the semi-finals on Sunday.

The Sunday game pitted the boys against Marconi Azurri again, who had defeated the Kitchener Spirit in the morning quarterfinal. This time, S.C. used the same speed, ball control and passing they used against the Mavericks to beat Marconi 2-0. This led to the final against none other than the London Mavericks, who defeated Cambridge and Greater London Menace earlier in the day.

So the stage was set. The Mavericks used their strength and height to gain advantage in the air. S.C. used their tackling and field vision to control the ground game. After a

lengthy delay due to an injury to a Maverick player, the game resumed and both teams looked tired from the waning afternoon sun. The game went back and forth with both teams having brilliant scoring chances and near misses.

At the end of regulation, the score was tied 1-1. The game went immediately to penalty kicks (PKs). After the initial five, S.C. and London were still deadlocked. The PKs went back and forth until finally only one out of the eleven players on the field was left to shoot. It was the London Maverick player. He had to score to continue the shootout as his opponent for S.C. had already scored. He placed the ball, stepped back to shoot and just missed the shot over the net. An ecstatic S.C. team rushed their goalie while paramedics revived the coaching staff!

As the London Mavericks and S.C. United coaches stated as they accepted their medals, if the kick-off cup is any indication of what’s to come in the season – LOOK OUT!

S.C. United plays under the Windsor F.C. Nationals and Leamington S.C. United Clubs. Visit their website at Leamingtonscunited.com to view all photos from the cup and league schedule.

A Perfect Ten becomes P10

Springtime Fresh!

It’s been 13 years since Amy Pilmer opened her business A Perfect “Ten” Esthetics Boutique on Erie Street and she believes that 13 is her lucky number.

“I felt that it was time for a total renewal of my business and what better time to do it than the springtime,” says Amy.

She has begun her renewal by changing her logo and condensing her business name from A Perfect “Ten” to P10. “The new name is very contemporary and fresh, which is exactly the feeling you get from my Spa.”

With the addition of new staff, as well as new products and services, Amy is focusing her efforts on a relaunch of her new business image. “Look for some great specials and the announcement of new services in the upcoming months. I will be offering something for everyone,” says an excited Pilmer.

With newfound passion and excitement, Amy has also started an Esthetic Academy at her facility. The Academy will provide hopeful students with the schooling and certificates needed to pursue careers in this fast-growing field.

“I really feel that Leamington needs a facility like this, and judging from the overwhelming response, I was right!” Pilmer joked. “I wish I had 10 of me!”

P10 added a distributorship that is able to supply area spas and salons with essential nail care products.

“ I am so excited about the new directions my business is taking. I want all my new and previous clients to come in and experience it for themselves.”

Leamington Barons baseball team

By Fred Groves

A provincial championship and a second-place finish in the last two years prove one thing for the Leamington Barons – they have the formula to success.

The key ingredient for the local senior baseball club it seems is team chemistry, and a little patience along the way doesn’t hurt either.

“We still act like 13-year-old kids out there even though we are 18 to 34 years old. It’s a fun bunch of guys,” said GM Ryan Sellon.

Two years ago the Barons beat Bolton to win the OBA ‘B’ title in a grueling 22-team tournament that saw Leamington play seven games in one weekend. Last year they were beaten in the finals.

Pitching is strong for the locals as they have 18-year-old Leamington District Minor Baseball Association product Greg Mastronardi coming off the hill along with fellow right-handers Max Saad, Brian Moore and leftie Willie Froese.

“Right now we have a limit of three innings per guy. From what they have done so far, they have impressed the coaches,” said Sellon.

Coaches John Ford Sr. and John Ford Jr. have also made sure the Barons’ offence is solid and situational hitting and key bunting is helping advance runners at the right time.

“Our ability to advance runners has always been strong. After three games we had 19 stolen bases,” said Sellon. If there is a weakness to this club it is probably the simple fact, like most teams early in the season, the hits are not as plentiful as they should be. Sellon says live pitching will help during practice.

“Our hitting is coming around. We just need to see 100 more balls before we are comfortable.”

Sellon is also the president of the 10-team Essex County Senior Baseball League, which he says has several strong teams including Woodslee and Riverside and that any team can win on any given night.

The Leamington Barons home games at the local diamond are Wednesday nights and Sunday afternoons.

S.O.C. holding turkey scoring night

Southwest Outdoors Club will be hosting their Ontario wild turkey scoring and all-you-can-eat yellow perch fry on Tuesday, June 8 at 6 p.m. at the Wheatley Legion.

Bring your turkey beards and spurs for scoring by an official F.R.O.W. scorer, and don’t forget to bring a photo of the bird. Prizes for 2010 Ontario Season turkeys, typical and non-typical.

Any turkey hunter is welcome to attend. You don’t have to be a S.O.C. member.

Erie Shores ladies 18-hole golf league

On Tuesday, May 25 the Erie Shores Ladies 18-Hole Golf League played a game of Just 3s (total of par 3s).

A Flight winner was Annie Pump with 14. Erika Grabb was B Flight winner with 15. Emily Oldenburg had 16 to win C Flight. Three golfers were tied at 20 for winner of D Flight: Marilyn Omstead, Gwen Tonary and Gail Brown.

These ladies had chipins: Anne Johnston on hole #8, Jeanne Manners on #11, Muriel Davey on #15, Carolyn Kelly on #1, Ilene Roberts on #10 and Erika Grabb on #2.

Wheatley ball hockey results

Week 2 of the Wheatley Women’s Ball Hockey League found the Hair Biz Hotties battling the Johnston Electric/Johnston Fisheries girls.

The first period of the game was a flurry of goals for the Johnston team with Lisa “Derb” Brouwer and Christine Hodgson each scoring two goals. Angele Stammler had quick hands and put one in on a one-timer from the hash marks.

The Johnston girls came out strong in the second half with Vickie Wenzler scoring 2 goals. Lucy Oliveira was stellar in net for the Hotties and made multiple saves to try to keep her team in the game.

With minutes remaining in the game, Amy Bell of the Hotties blew up Janis Willan’s hope of a shutout by putting one into the netting. Final score 7-1 for the Johnston girls.

Game 2 had the Wheatley Journal and the Dries Potatoes Fried or Baked team facing off. Both teams looked great in the new shirts and the new look definitely had both teams fired up.

The Journal’s Sheila McBrayne continued her scoring streak potting one in the first period. The Journal girls gave Lauren Mather quite a workout in net. Terri Taylor, Cheryl Klemens and a great goal by Noelle Resendes had The Journal girls up to a score of 4-0 to end the game. Laura Epp was great in net for The Journal, earning the shutout.

Solar Energy Information

Last Tuesday, May 25 approximately 100 people attended an information night about generating electricity using solar panels. Organized by the Mennonite Central Committee and held at U.M.E.I., the evening was designed to inform local organizations, churches and individuals about incentives to encourage participation and to help them make contact with reputable firms that supply the solar energy market.

Darren Knopf, the representative of the Mennonite Central Committee who organized the event, said that this night was the fourth of five such information sessions that have been held in southern Ontario that have regional Mennonite centres. Previous efforts in Alymer, Stouffville, and Waterloo attracted similar crowds. The companies with representatives present have found this a good way to initiate contact with potential customers, too. As one representative pointed out, “We just drove four hours to be here tonight, we wouldn’t do that if it was’t worth our while.”

SOUTHPOINT STARS

After everyone had time to mingle, people were encouraged to move from the displays in the school gymnasium to the school’s chapel where the how and why of the evening were explained. Darren Knopf works with churches and individuals helping them with conservation and sustainable energy projects in an attempt to awaken them to an alternative to a way of life that is having a negative impact on creation. In his explanation to the assembly, he pointed out that energy is so easy to access we have come to believe there is an infinite supply, but that is not the case. We are simply so divorced from the amassing of fossil fuels and the technology of power generation that we do not see the negative impacts our energy consumption is having globally in a personal way.

Girls Midget “B” Travel Hockey Tryout

The Leamington Midget “B” Girls Travel team is inviting all interested players to attend tryouts for the 2010/2011 Season. They are scheduled to begin at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex on Saturday, June 5 through Wednesday, June 16. Anyone interested in playing must attend. If you are attending from another OWHA Centre, a permission to skate form is required. Visit our website www.southpointminorhockey.com or contact Coach Dave Manning at 919-1725 or 825-9596

Pasta Night Fundraiser

Friday, June 11 5-8 pm at the Rhine Danube Club, Leamington

All-You-Can-Eat dinner includes your choice of 2 kinds of pasta, salad and roll. Refreshments & Desserts will be on sale Take-Out also available

Tickets $10 per person available at the Kinsmen Baseball Complex Canteen, Fletcher’s Cleaners & from LDMBA board members

REC ROUND-UP REC ROUND-UP

JUNE IS RECREATION MONTH! GET YOURSELF IN MOTION!

Membership at the Complex is very popular, and very affordable too! We encourage you to enjoy your summer gardening and golfing, but DONʼT give up your weight and cardio exercises. The Complex is cool and climate-controlled all summer long so that you can comfortably keep up a regular workout regimen!

Summer Activity Guides: Pick up your copy in the Complex brochure rack or go online at www.leamington.ca link to recreation and link to Activity Guide to view all the classes and programs being offered for the summer session.

REGISTRATION for summer begins on Monday, June 7. Enroll the entire family in recreation programs.

Home Alone Course for youth ages 9-12. Next course is Saturday, June. Your children will build self-confidence and responsibility while taking this training course.

NEW Cardio Kick Boxing Class taught by university student Blair Makey is geared to all you young energetic types. For a rigorous workout come tone, shape and sculpt your body for the summer season! Get started now in the early-bird classes offered during June, and keep up the great workout all summer long on Tuesday and Thursday nights.

Leamingtonʼs Active Week is June 7-11. Everyone is invited to come and join Mayor John Adams for the annual Spring Noon-Hour Walk starting at 12:00 noon on Monday, June 7 at the Marina. Hope to see everyone from Leamington come out for this spring walk as we get Leamington residents physically active and in motion!

Tribute 2010 Schoolʼs Out Bash on Friday, June 25 at 7:30 pm. Tribute Concert to Taylor Swift, Hannah Montana, Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers and Lady Gaga. All on one big stage at the Complex. Tickets $20 ($25 at door if available). No reserved seating. Bring the family for a great evening of entertainment

We have something for every...body!

249 Sherk St., Leamington 519-322-2337

email: bfischer@leamington.ca www.leamington.ca

By encouraging local energy generation there are two huge benefits gained. First, it helps individuals prioritize energy use – as you begin to see the difference in the amount you generate versus the amount you use, the difference between what you need to consume and what you want to consume becomes more obvious. His example of this, from a village where the only supply of electricity is solar panels, was the decision people would make whether to use the electricity for lighting at night or television during the day. Second, it ensures that harmful effects are minimized. If you are the source, you have a vested interest in ensuring little or no negative impact results from your activity

Mr. Knopf went on to outline the incentives that there are in the Green Energy Act. The government is currently willing to enter into 20-year contracts with individuals, groups and communities for solar powered electricity at a premium rate. For arrays that generate ten megawatts or less, referred to by the Ontario Power Authority as the micro-FIT program, the rate is 80.2¢/kWh. Effectively, the government is ‘priming the pump’, believing that as local solar power generation increases, economic benefits and jobs will follow. In addition, the rate was established to ensure a ‘reasonable rate of return’ on the investment necessary to install an array. It was at this point that Ben Janzen, Stewardship in Action Advisor for the Mennonite Savings and Credit Union head office in Kitchener, was introduced to alert the audience to another incentive. He explained that the credit union had developed a Creation Care Loan Rate that guarantees a fixed 5-year interest rate a full half percent below normal as an environmental discount. Ten-year loans are available in amounts from $10,000 to $40,000 to borrowers seeking to finance sustainable alternative energy projects in their homes, on their farms, or for their churches.

OBITUARY NOTICE

Susie Ann Simon

Susie Ann Simon, 51 years, passed away suddenly on Sunday, May 23, 2010 in Calgary.

Dear daughter of the late Catherine Simon and the late Joseph Simon. Cherished sister of Sharron Simon and aunt to Corey and Bailey Wintermute.

Cremation. A Memorial Mass to celebrate Susie’s life is at St. Joseph’s Church, 310 Sherk Street, Leamington, on Wednesday, June 2, 2010 at 7 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque by contacting the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington (519-326-2631) or by visiting the website at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.

OBITUARY NOTICE

John A. “Jack” Baker

John A. “Jack” Baker, 86 years, passed away Thursday, May 27, 2010. Late of Wheatley.

Beloved husband of Eileen (Ellerbeck) and the late Lila Baker (1980). Dear father of Janice Bowen (Paul), Carol Derksen (Bill), Linda Healey (Paul) and stepfather of Linda Ellerbeck (Roy Tofflemire).

Loving grandfather of Andrea Bowen and fiancé Brian Imeson, Mallorey Derksen, Allison Bowen, Ashley Healey, Matthew Healey and Mackenzie Derksen. Dear brother of the late Carol Bell (2010).

Jack was an active member at Wheatley Talbot Trail Golf Course and worked for the Royal Bank of Canada for 40 years, his last years in Wheatley.

At Jack’s request, cremation has taken place. A family graveside service was held at Erie Cemetery in Wheatley with Rev. Robert Lemon officiating.

Memorial donations may be made by cheque to the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre by contacting the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 14 Russell Street, Leamington, at 519-326-2631 or by visiting the website at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.

“We don’t make any money on these loans,” Mr. Janzen pointed out, “but they represent our commitment to our faith’s goal of ‘peace, social justice and mutual aid’.” He also reminded people that the income from selling electricity to the Ontario Power Authority is taxable, but that the tax can be deferred by depreciating the equipment needed to generate the electricity. Moreover, because jobs and economic growth are a big part of the government’s goal for this program, at least 40% of the solar array you install must be made in Ontario. If you are interested in the possibility of putting up a solar array, detailed information is available on the internet at http://microfit. powerauthority.on.ca.

Meet Kelly Authier...

Kelly Authier was born and raised in Puce, Ontario, and now lives in Port Alma just outside of Wheatley. She is 28 years young.

Type of music: “Original music”, jazzy adult comtemporary. She described her music as “Nora Jones meets Bette Midler.”

Kelly plays single gigs –piano/keyboard and guitar and vocals. She just started playing guitar. She also plays duo gigs: Kelly on piano/keyboard and vocals and her husband Mike Authier on drums/vocals.

Dueling piano gigs –

Two pianos with Kelly Authier and Jordan Sherman.

Dueling piano gigs –

Two pianos with Kelly Authier and Mitch Lewis.

Most interesting place you’ve played: When Kelly and Mike were on their honeymoon in Chicago they saw a club called The Red Head Lounge. They went in – she got an audition and played the next night.

Any brush with fame: 2005 Canadian Idol Contest. She was in the top 100 finalists.

Most significant gig: Kelly played organ in church for masses at age 8. She was the full time organist and started directing the choir at age 15.

CDs or recordings: Her first full length CD will be available July 2010. It will be available at shows and at The Music Room in Leamington. She will also have a song on Dale Butler’s CD due out in winter of 2010, called “Interpretations: the Songs of Dale Butler”.

Where would you like to be in five years?: Kelly would like to be nominated for a Juno Award, Canada’s top music award, and she would also like to have her music being played on CBC Radio 3.

If you could play with anyone who would you play with?: Michael Buble, John Mayer, Ray Charles, The Beatles, Rufus Wainwright.

Time spend rehearsing, playing: Kelly spends about 2 hours a day rehearsing and writing, and she performs about 10 shows a month on average. Kelly is a full-time Performing Musician

Formal training: Kelly is classically trained. She started piano lessons at age 3 and studied vocals as a teenager. She has her Grade 9 piano and Grade 7 vocals from the Royal Conservatory of Music.

Where can you hear her?: Kelly plays regularly at Johnny Shotz in Tecumseh doing the dueling piano show, and once a month (Wednesday to Saturday) at Fallsview Casino, Niagara Falls, in the R5 lounge from 8 p.m.-1 a.m. She also plays at coffee houses Windsor Folk Coffee House at McKenzie Hall and at The Last Friday Coffee House in Leamington, 11 Queen Street.

On the internet: youtube.com/userthekelly.com.

Alyssa Getty ties for 6th in national championship

Leamington’s Alyssa Getty finished in a tie for 6th place out of the 27-player field in the Girls division of the C.N. Future Links Ontario Championship on Sunday at Sutton Creek.

Getty, 13, fired 75-79-76 for a three-day total of 11 over par to finish 16 strokes behind Rebecca LeeBentham, 18, of Toronto.

Lee-Bentham, a National team member, is off to Texas on a golf scholarship in August, as are most of the top five girls that were in the championship field.

Richard Jung, 18, of Toronto, fired rounds of 68-70-66 to win the Junior Boys division in a play-off over Albin Choi, 18, also of Toronto. Jung has plans to turn pro and Choi will attend North Carolina State on a golf scholarship. Both players are also members of the Golf Canada (RCGA) National Team.

Public advised to beware of motor vehicle insurance scam

The Canadian AntiFraud Centre (formerly Phonebusters) and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are warning people who are seeking and obtaining automobile insurance that fraudsters have been advertising fraudulent insurance premiums in Ontario newspapers and on websites.

Signs consumers need to be aware of are:

• Unusually low rates.

• Everyone is accepted.

• A phony, invalid insurance slip is mailed or emailed to buyers after they have sent their premium through Western Union or Money Gram.

Complaints forwarded by victims of this automobile insurance scam confirm that the scammers have used company names such as “Arthur and Son”, “Smith and Sons” and “Addison and Sons”.

A scam of this nature is serious in that victims are not aware that their automobile insurance is not valid until they are involved in a collision or are stopped by police.

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre is advising citizens to protect themselves by following a few safety measures when shopping for

automobile insurance. Legitimate insurance companies and brokers have to be registered in Ontario and a consumer can verify a company through the following two sources of information:

1) All Ontario Insurance brokers have to be licensed with the Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO). You can contact RIBO at 1-800-265-3097 or by visiting www.ribo.com.

If you suspect you have or are about to purchase fraudulent insurance, please contact your local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888495-8501.

You may also visit www. phonebusters.com to educate yourself against fraud and scams currently affecting Canadians. towards regular benchmarking against international best practices.” To view the Index and for more information visit: www.csqi.on.ca.

2) In Ontario, automobile insurance is regulated by the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO), an agency of the Ontario Ministry of Finance. In order to provide insurance, an insurance company must be registered with FSCO. You can contact FSCO at www.fsco. gov.on.ca.

The Waterfront Café – the best patio spot on the lake!

Basking in the beautiful weather we enjoyed this weekend, we wanted to enjoy lunch on a patio so we wandered over to the Waterfront Café in Leamington. The Waterfront has been a fixture at the Leamington Marina for a number of years, and we think it is fair to say they have the best view and patio on the lake! From the Waterfront’s patio we were able to enjoy a great view of the lake, all the boats heading in and out of the marina, and the general mulling around of the many visitors enjoying the lakefront on a sunny Saturday afternoon.

When you first read the menu at the Waterfront the Greek influence is obvious. There are many Greek specialties including: dolma and dips platter (dips include tzatziki, hummus, baba ghanoush), gyros, chicken and pork souvlaki just to mention a few. We understand that the grape leaves are exceptional, and the fish choices are also house specialties. The Waterfront has a generous appetizer menu that makes it a great choice if you want to sit on the patio with some drinks and friends and just enjoy the day. We also had the Mexi poppers – jalapeno’s stuffed with cheese – served with a side salad, which we thoroughly enjoyed and went well with the Corona’s served with lime.

The extensive dinner

and lunch menu at the Waterfront offers something for everyone, including a wide selection of sandwiches, fish and seafood platters, steak and pastas. I had to try the pork souvlaki sandwich. The sandwich is served on thick Greek pita with tzatziki sauce, fresh tomatoes, onions and feta cheese. I also had to try the Greek salad, which I highly recommend as the side dish to any meal or sandwich choice. We tried the grilled chicken sandwich as well. The chicken was excellent – very moist and grilled perfectly – and served with a choice of sauces: honey garlic, barbeque and teriyaki. With a very good bar menu, we highly recommend spending an afternoon at the Waterfront Café.

LDMBA Pasta Night

Leamington District Minor Baseball Association (LDMBA) is hosting a Pasta Night fundraiser at the Rhine Danube Club in Leamington on Friday, June 11. Dinner will be available from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and is “all-you-caneat” and includes your choice of two kinds of pasta, salad and a roll. Refreshments and desserts will be on sale. Takeout is also available,

“We have 41 house league teams and four travel teams in our association,” says LDMBA president Sue Holiga. “Monies raised through fundraising ventures are used to offset the rising cost of diamond rentals.”

LDMBA IDOL

“The evening will include our own version of LDMBA Idol as we search for the best rendition of the classic Take Me Out to The Ballgame,” added Maureen Lamotte, Pasta Night chairperson.

“We are also giving all the teams the chance to be creative and design their own team pennants. We will have them on display at the event. We have prizes for both the LDMBA Idol and the Best Pennant.”

LDMBA provides organized baseball for boys and girls between the ages of 4 and 17 in the Leamington/Wheatley area.

Tickets are $10 per person and are available at the Canteen at the Kinsmen Baseball Complex, at Fletcher’s Cleaners in Leamington, and from LDMBA board members.

Canadian CrissCross

was one of several volunteers who were busy planting the flowerbeds on Talbot Road East in front of the Sun Parlor Home For Senior Citizens. She gave us a tip to take a look at the Fraser Road flowerbed in about two weeks when their plants have grown in a little – we’ll be sure to keep an eye on that.

Registered Disability Savings Plan

Learn more about the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), a new tool to help you plan for the financial wellbeing of your relative with a disability. Already thousands of families and individuals across the country are setting up the plan, and an estimated 500,000 Canadians will benefit from this plan over time.

Free in-person seminars and one-on-one consultations will be conducted in Windsor and Essex County on Wednesday, June 16 and Thursday, June 17 by Brendon D. Pooran, a Toronto-based lawyer that provides advice on wills and estates planning, government benefits and disability law. This free RDSP planning workshop will be a guide to understanding and taking advantage of the plan, so that you can help yourself or your relative with a disability capitalize on the numerous advantages of the RDSP, including the significant federal contributions.

RSVP your attendance one of 3 ways: register online at www.clwindsor.org; by phone at: 519-250-9410; or e-mail: rcpwindsor@autismontario.com

Sessions will be held at Our Lady of the Atonement Family Centre, 2940 Forest Glade Drive, Windsor

Leamington Branch 84 Legion getting ready for its move

By Pat Simpson

The General Meeting will be held June 2 at 7 p.m. Please come out and support your new executive.

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Navy, an HMCS Hunter representative will be making a presentation to the Branch at the Municipal Council Meeting to be held June 14, 2010. More details next week.

Tim Nantais, our Sports Officer, will be holding a mini dart tournament on June 5. Mixed doubles, draw for partners, $5 per person, register at noon, start at 1 p.m. Come out and join the fun.

Renovations are ongoing at our new location at 27 Erie Street North. On Sunday, May 23 a work crew cleared out most of the upstairs hall in anticipation of our move. Special thanks to Tim and Shelly Nantais, Lisa Cowen-Tehonchuk,

June 2 is Camp Day at Tim Hortons

Tim Hortons annual Camp Day fundraiser is on Wednesday, June 2. Camp Day is the one day a year when Tim Hortons restaurant owners donate every penny of their coffee sales, as well as funds raised through other events and activities, to the Tim Horton Children’s Foundation.

The Foundation is a non-profit organization that offers a camping experience to children whose families would not otherwise be able to afford it. This year more than 14,000 children will attend the Foundation’s camps.

Last year, with the overwhelming support of restaurant owners, staff and loyal customers, Tim Hortons was able to raise $9.4 million on Camp Day. This year the goal is to surpass that amount.

Bill Miihlroth, Jim and Pat Simpson, and Ken and Roberta Feica (London) for their help. Much was accomplished by the crew.

No date has been set for our move. Once the moving date is finalized, there are some plans underway for a final bar-

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

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 In Kingsville, 1 bedroom apartment for seniors for rent, $633 month, everything included. Elevator available in building. Call 519-322-0920 and 519-3261577. tf

becue at the Branch.

Our lob ball team is playing again this season. Come out and help them celebrate on Wednesday or Thursday nights (depending on their schedule).

Executive Meeting June 16 at 7 p.m.

Eavestroughing, decks, siding, windows, complete renovations, Gutter Cleaning Systems, furniture refinishing. Call Bill Siddall 519825-3931 tf

& Silent Auction, Sat. June 12, 6 pm at Leamington Marina Pavilion. Pig roast, music, dancing, live entertainment, cash bar. For tickets call 519-322-2463. More info at www.speqtra.ca june2-2

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

ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS? lights, fans, heaters, wiring, small jobs, large jobs, renovations. Art Tiessen 519-3267900anytime. Affordable rates. Licensed, experienced electrician. june2-9

4 family yard sale. Sofas, chairs, 2003 Windstar van, household items, 5th Concession, Leamington, I mile east of Hwy 77. Friday & Saturday, June 4 and 5, 8 am - 5 pm. june2-2

Saturday, June 5th, 8 am.

38 Danforth, Leamington. Furniture, clocks, dishes, jewellery, etc june2-2 May 28, white-gold hoop earring. Sentimental gift. Reward. Call 326-3021. june2-2

Approximately 15 walkers participated in the Pregnancy Resource Centre Walk- A-Thon fundraiser on Friday, May 28 at Cardinal Carter Secondary School track. The Pregnancy Centre is a centre that exists in the community to help teen mothers and their children. MP

Leamington & Mersea Historical Society holds May meeting

By Neil Fotheringham

The regular monthly meeting of the Leamington Mersea Historical Society was held at the museum on Saturday, May 22 with eleven members present.

Thanks to Scott Holland for a delicious barbecue served with salads and desserts provided by the members. Neil Fotheringham, Society Secretary, opened the meeting.

In the fall the Leamington Mersea Historical Society will reapply to the University of Windsor Volunteer Incentive Program (VIP). These students will help to organize the land records and deeds given to the Society by the Essex County Land Records Office.

Several suggestions were made for future guest speakers.

The Society will be displaying a full-sized stagecoach crafted by Bob McCracken at the Leamington Fair.

Through the generosity of the Jackson family, the Historical Society will again be holding their annual yard sale on July 10 and 11 at Jackson’s Flowers at the corner of Fraser Road and County Road 21. The group is appealing to the public for donations. Please call Nellie Jenkinson at 519-326-3657. Transportation and storage are available.

Everyone is welcome to the next meeting of the Leamington Mersea Historical Society at 12-noon on Saturday, June 26 at the museum. Bring a lunch.

Essex-Kent CAs prepared 236 free tax returns

For the 42nd year in a row, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario organized its annual Free CA Tax Clinics, which were offered at various times and locations across the province.

In Essex-Kent, 39 Chartered Accountants (CAs) and CA students stepped up for the needy in their community by preparing 236 tax returns for people in low-income brackets during tax season. Across Ontario, more than 1,600 volunteers prepared 11,753 tax returns.

When they run between mid-February and the end of March, the Free CA Tax Clinics are open to those with total annual household incomes less than $25,000 with dependents and less than $17,000 with no dependents. The next clinics run during tax season in 2011.

Talbot Trail Road repaired

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has completed construction of a bypass on a portion of Talbot Trail (formerly known as Highway #3) in the vicinity of Coatsworth Road. The temporary construction required a few curves in the road, necessitating a speed reduction in the area.

The municipality closed the road and created a detour on April 28 after a crack was reported in the nearby Lake Erie bluff. The municipality was notified by a local resident who noticed a crack in the asphalt road. In the interest of safety, the road was closed and traffic detoured around the location.

“I would like to thank residents for all their cooperation during the detour period,” said General Manager of Infrastructure and Engineering Leo Denys. “Municipal employees and contractors were able to tackle the problem very quickly and put an interim solution in place.”

Denys says that the municipality will begin design of a more permanent solution that will include some property acquisition. The permanent solution might take several years to put in place.

Leamington Fair Days are coming...

June 18, 19, 20

Walt Cherneski

3290 Jefferson Blvd., Windsor ON N8T 2W8

Phone: 519-945-7900 ext.215

Email: waltc@advancebusiness.net

Online: www.advancebusiness.net

HOT BUYS

RBC Financial Group of Leamington recently donated $1,000 to the South Essex Community Council towards their language programs. Six staff members from RBC – Heather Brushett, Branch Manager; 
Lynn Girardin, Branch Operating Officer; 
Beverley Mills, Manager, Client Care; 
Edith Derbyshire, CSR; 
Susan Callens, CSR; 
and Rhonda Bertolo, Financial Planner – were part of a Conversation Day held for the students on Saturday, April 24. Students were able to practice their English language conversation skills by participating in a number of conversations designed by staff and carried out with the help of the Royal Bank volunteers. The language workshop was held in coordination with Volunteer Week and the $1,000 donation from RBC was part of the Day of Service Grant offered through RBC Financial Group. Leamington RBC’ branch’s incoming Branch Manager Gary Toupin and outgoing Branch Manager Heather Brushett and Rhonda Bertolo presented the cheque to SECC staff and several students of the language program on Thursday, May 27. (Sun Photo)

Tribute Bash coming to Leamington

The Municipality of Leamington/Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex is pleased to present TRIBUTE 2010 – SCHOOL’S OUT BASH on Friday, June 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the Complex Gymnasium.

The show will feature tributes to Taylor Swift, Hannah Montana, Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers and Lady Gaga. See all these tribute acts on one big stage at the Complex!

The Complex gym will be well chaperoned/supervised during this concert and families are encouraged to attend with their children. One ticket price for all ages.