Santa Arrives at Mall

Santa Claus arrived by fire truck at the County Fair Mall on Saturday December 3, 2011. Santa will be at the mall the next two Saturdays from noon until 4 p.m. and also Thursday December 22, 3-8 p.m. and Friday December 23 from 11 to 4.

Graffiti blemishes fairgrounds

The Leamington Fairgrounds grandstand is apparently not immune to vandalism. The facility was tagged with several vulgarities and graffiti last week. The gym building was also affected in this spree. Anyone with information on this crime should call the O.P.P. or the fair board office. A reward is being offered for information leading to the apprehension of those responsible.

Author signs War of 1812 book

As the 200-year anniversary of the War of 1812 quickly approaches, interest in the local investment in the war is picking up steam. On Friday, December 2, 2011, former Leamington resident and author, Sandy Antal, sitting, spoke about his latest book, "Invasions", which depicts the Essex County involvement in the famous war between the British and the Americans. Antal spoke about the strategies and promises that lead to the local militia being thrust into the middle of the war to defend their land. Much of what happened in the war shaped the county as we know it today. Here, Antal signs a copy of his book for Carolyn Coad and Nellie Jenkinson. The presentation and signing was held at the Pelee Days Inn and was hosted by the Essex County Historical Society.

Lions girls hockey

The Leamington District Secondary School Lion's girls' hockey team is enjoying a perfect start to this season. On Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011, the young ladies made it 3-0, with a 5-1 win over Lajeunesse. Shailyn Waites led the Lions' offence with two goals, with Jillian Iles, Erin Reid and Alyson Skidmore adding singles. Alissa Reid, above, with saves like this, earned the win in net.

Legion News

We would like to thank everyone for precipating in the Remebrance day services. It was very much enjoyed to see the

Leamington High School all there, the choir, the band, the hospitality and the students that paraded with the names

of all the service men names on the cenotaph.

We still have the Friday night darts, starts at 8 pm. cost $2. The sign up sheet for Zone Euchre on December 17th in

Essex. Put in a team, cost is $5 per person.

The members X-mas party is December 10th at 2pm. There will be a raffle for two very nice X-mas prizes, tickets on sale now.

There are still tickets for both Xmas dinners for the Seniors on December 14th. Times are 1 pm to 4 pm and 5 pm to

8 pm, cost id $7, with Gord Ciliska playing.

The next two General meetings are December 7th and January 4th at 7 pm. The executive meeting December 21th at 7pm.

Pet of the Week - Desiree

Another young girl looking for her forever home, Desiree is a one-year-old German Shepherd/Terrier mix with stunning brindle markings. Described as a very quick learner who is calm and has very good manners, we think she'd make a beautiful addition to any home. If you agree, please come visit Desiree at the Humane Society today. Photo Courtesy of Angie Chauvin Photography.

Toys For Tots Radio Auction

92.7 Max FM is getting ready to once again host the Leamington and area Toys for Tots radio auction. A half-dozen different gift packages will be auctioned off during the event on Friday, December 2 from 7 am to 10 am. with all the proceeds going to Toys for Tots. Volunteers will use the money to buy gifts for older children who usually don't receive as many gifts in the drop boxes.

"It's one of those community efforts that doesn't get as much publicity as it probably should, so the auction is a great way to shine a light on the fine work done by the group," said Max FM Program Director Cordell Green. "Usually we raise about $4,000 during the auction. However, this year Toys For Tots is getting a large number of requests so we're hoping to top our normal total." Items up for auction include hotel stays across Ontario, a BBQ, and packs of gifts for kids include build-a-bears, Too-Too and wand from "Young and Fabulous" in LaSalle, and a gift certificate from the Jean Academy.

"We're hoping businesses get involved in the event as well. It's a good way for businesses to help a good cause and get a little exposure at the same time."

People can listen during the auction to hear which items are up for bid, and then place a bid by calling 519-326-6171.