Hospital Takes Precautions and Closes Admissions to a Unit

Windsor Ont

Windsor Regional Hospital is erring on the side of patient safety by closing admissions to the 4 West Oncology Unit.

A total of nine (9) patients have tested positive for either VRE, MSRA and C.Diff over the past three (3) weeks on the unit. Six (6) of these patients are still in hospital.

Enterococci are bacteria that are normally presented in the human intestines and in the female genital tract and are often found in the environment. Vancomycin is an antibiotic that is often used to treat infections caused by Enterococci. In some instances, Enterococci have become resistant to this drug and thus are called Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE).

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a bacterium responsible for several difficult-to-treat infections in humans. S. aureus most commonly colonizes the anterior nares (the nostrils). In most patients, MRSA can be detected by swabbing the nostrils and isolating the bacteria found inside.

Clostridium difficile (often called C. difficile or C. diff) is a bacterium that can cause symptoms ranging from diarrhea to life-threatening inflammation of the colon. Illness from C. difficile most commonly affects older adults in hospitals or in long term care facilities and typically occurs after use of antibiotic medications

As a result, erring on the side of caution, no admissions are being accepted on the Unit and to avoid any further spread of the infection, visitation will be limited of no more than two visitors per patient unless for compassionate reasons to that unit.

All other floors or services, including but not limited to Emergency Department services, are NOT impacted by the closure of admissions to this particular unit.

"The entire hospital team of professional staff, nurses, housekeepers and infection prevention and control staff are working tirelessly to provide a safe environment and to minimize and eliminate the spread of infection." stated David Musyj, President and CEO, Windsor Regional Hospital. David went on further "we have taken this precautionary step in order to avoid an outbreak situation and to avoid any further transmission to any other patients".

Windsor Regional Hospital continues to advocate that "clean hands save lives" and once again asks all visitors and staff to continue to wash their hands before and after contact with any patient or entering or exiting the hospital.

It is estimated that the unit will be closed for admissions for approximately one week or until it can be confirmed that there is no further spread of any infection on the unit.

For further information contact:

Ron Foster, VP, Public Affairs, Communications

519-995-2482 (cell) / 519-254-5577 Ext 52003 (o) / ron_foster@wrh.on.ca

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Cancer diagnosis follows months of searching for answers to child’s ills Mother urges others to follow their instincts, demand answers

By Pat Bailey

By Dr. Karen Archer has learned never to take her family time for granted.

For the local dentist, that point was driven home on Dec. 24, 2008.

That day is etched in her memory — and not one of a happy Christmas Eve with her husband Scott and her three youngsters gathered around a Christmas tree laden with gifts.

Instead, it was one spent in shock, trying to comprehend the news she was given while in a London hospital with her son Alex, now six.

Alex's aches, pains, exhaustion and pale complexion had plagued him for about two months, but the Archers were never given a definitive answer for his symptoms, just told to have him rest and take ibuprophen — until then.

When the doctor told them Alex was suffering from lymphoblastic leukemia, they were stunned — and devastated.

But the initial shock and horror of the situation, instead became a new focus for the Archers — beginning the treatments Alex needed and trying to balance their busy lives to accommodate the drastic change in their lives. Fortunately for the Archers, Alex responded to the treatment and went into remission during the initial six-week round of chemotherapy but will continue treatments until about April — barring any additional setbacks.

At the time of the diagnosis, Karen had just returned to her dental practice in Leamington after having her third child, son Eric, now two.

She said her husband had taken parental leave from his job with the Greater Essex County District School Board — so, he handled the lion's share of appointments with Alex.

And as a mother, still nursing her infant, Karen tried to maintain some normalcy for her baby, and, then five-year-old Sara.

She said they were lucky her in-laws made the five-hour trip on several occasions to help out at home.

Through all of this, Karen said she has come to realize how fortunate they are to have good jobs that include medical coverage and some level of flexibility — and how important a support system is.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Pelee research site gets 51 nesting boxes

Mark Ribble, Leamington Post

The University of Windsor's Pelee Environmental Research Site was abuzz with activity last Saturday as 17 researchers from the university erected 51 tree swallow nesting boxes throughout the property.

The land at the corner of Road B and Road 19 in southeast Leamington was donated by the municipality to the University last year.

Associate Professor Dan Mennill spearheaded the project, which included colleagues, friends and family.

"This is the first of several research and teaching projects that we're developing at the site in the coming months," he said.

Mennill says plans are being made for a new set of gates at the property as well as some floating docks.

The site will serve as a research station for student and staff and the nesting boxes will be an important part of their research and teaching.

Mennill says they are working on fundraising for larger projects in the future.

Bus lines reminding everyone about bus safety as school year begins

As students in the Leamington-Kingsville area are gearing up for another school year, so are their school bus drivers.

C.A. Bailey Ltd is kicking off the new school year putting safety first with a friendly reminder to all parents, students and motorists of school bus and road safety rules.

Many factors contribute to a safe ride to and from school and all must do their part to ensure safety. Motorists are reminded that they must stop in both directions when approaching a stopped school bus with its STOP arm extended and upper red lights flashing. Failing to comply with this law can lead to a fine ranging from $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points. C.A. Bailey Ltd. is also asking parents to remind their children of the importance of following school bus safety rules. Here are some guidelines to remember when exiting the bus... To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

OPP to get new $35,000 video conference unit

The Leamington OPP will be getting a new video conferencing unit — at no cost to the municipality.

OPP Inspector Rick Derus told members of the Leamington Police Services Board on Thursday that the cost of the unit, expected to be about $35,000, will be picked by OPP corporate headquarters.

He said the unit will include networking, power point machines, tables and whatever else is needed to convert the current training room to a video conferencing unit.

Derus told the board that the Leamington detachment was chosen by the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services for the specialized unit that will eventually save them the cost of sending their officers to places such as Orillia for training.

He said it's a huge advantage locally — one that will allow general investigation training right in the Leamington detachment.

To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Cutting the cake

Retired Leamington Fire Chief Bob Bradt is posed to cut his retirement cake with a fire axe on Saturday at the Rhine Danube Club. Bradt retired after 45 years of service (the last 13 of those as Chief), family, friends and co-workers wished him well at his party. Chuck Parsons has been named new fire chief.

Coming Up

SEPTEMBER

September 2 — St. John's Anglican Church will host a pig roast at the Leamington Marina from 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $6 for children. Tickets available by call 326-3111 or 326-4042.

September 6 — RTO/ERO Windsor-Essex District 7 retired teachers will meet for their annual breakfast buffet at Colasanti's at 9 a.m. The cost is $10. For further information call Val at 839-5128 or Sandy at 733-4375.

September 7 — There will be a Leamington blood donor clinic from noon to 7:30 p.m. at the Portuguese Club, 217Talbot St. W. Call 1-888-2DONATE (1-888-236-6283) for information or to book an appointment. Walk-ins welcome.

September 7 — Shoooters' Photography Club will meet from 7 to 10 p.m. at Colasanti's. Chad Riley of the Leamington Arts Centre wil discuss their up and coming photo show, including how to show photos. For further information contact Ann Cotter at 733-3266 or anncott@gmail.com.

September 7, 10 — The Sun Parlour Players Community Theatre will hold auditions for 'Into the Woods Junior' which will be performed Jan. 27-29. The auditions are for those aged 7-18 and will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sept. 7 and from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sept. 10 and will be held at the Bank Theatre, 10 Erie St. S., Leamington. Prepare a one-minute song or monologue. For further information call Suzanne at 733-6090.

To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Boating safety at marina

The Leamington Municipal Marina played host to a boater safety display, sponsored by the Ministry of Transportation, on Friday August 26, 2011. Jonathan Doan and Gina Belrose, boating safety officers for the ministry, answered questions of several boaters regarding the requirements for safety equipment on boats, as well as the different types of life jackets and other personal flotation device. Above, Doan and Belrose answer questions of this group of boaters.

Province chips in with $2.2 million

Liqui-Force digs deep to advance its 'no dig' technology and create 88 jobs

By Pat Bailey

A $2.2 million dollar investment by the provincial government, coupled with an $11.8 million dollar investment by a Kingsville company, is expected to create at least 88 jobs, save its customers money, improve the environment and put the company on the cutting edge when it comes to the maintenance of sewers and waterlines.

On Monday, Aug. 15, Sandra Pupatello, minister of economic development and trade, along with Dwight Duncan, minister of finance and MPP for Windsor-Tecumseh, made the announcement at Liqui-Force Services in Kingsville.

"We're proud to support Liqui-Force's latest investment in the province," said Pupatello. "Ontario is quickly becoming a global leader in the development of water technologies, providing clean drinking water to our communities and water expertise to the world."

"The support provided today is another great example of how we can work with local businesses to help create jobs," said Duncan. "By working together, we are helping to create jobs across Ontario for hardworking families."

Liqui-Force chairman and CEO Kim Lewis, said the jobs will include general laborers, certified engineering technologists, right up to those with a degree in engineering.

Lewis said his company is a leader in no-dig pipe rehabilitation technology and compared their latest technological advancement to that of non-invasive robotic surgery.

"Our new pipeline rehabilitation technology decreases repair costs, providing significant cost-savings and minimal disruption to the community for pipeline infrastructure repairs over the traditional method of dig and replace," said Lewis.

The latest expansion is into home laterals.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

United Way ambassador speaks from experience

By Pat Bailey

Sherry Bondy knows firsthand the importance of the United Way.

As a youngster, she volunteered extensively, directing much of her energy with the programs of that agency.

But at 15, Bondy turned to United Way when she needed its help.

"I got pregnant at 15," said the councillor for Essex, "and moved out on my own."

Fortunately though, Bondy had learned through her volunteer efforts where to turn when she needed help.

She utilized social assistance to help make ends meet and took advantage of the programs the United Way had to offer.

Bondy gives credit to the United Way for contributing to her success story.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Winterline Brings Bluegrass to Two Creeks

If you like bluegrass magic, Two Creeks is the place to be Aug. 28.

Winterline, the six-member band based in Grande Pointe in northwest Chatham-Kent, is returning to the Weil stage at Two Creeks, and they're looking forward to their appearance.

Taking their name from the main street of their hamlet, Winterline plays a selection of old and new favourites, everything from the Beatles to Bill Monroe, from Miranda Lambert to Rhonda Vincent. In fact, they have something for every age group.

In the troupe are Ron Jubenville, banjo and vocals; Gabe Gagnon, guitar and vocals; Joyce Gagnon, mandolin and vocals; Bernie Caron, mandolin, violin and vocals; Ken Robichaud, dobro; and Jared Lozon, upright bass.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Wheatley man fined $1,000 for running over geese

A Wheatley man was fined $1,000 for killing geese with his pickup truck.

Donald Dierckens pleaded guilty to unlawfully using a vehicle for the purpose of killing wildlife, contrary to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act.

Court heard that on June 13, 2011, a concerned member of the public saw a vehicle driving over a flock of geese in a field and called the MNR TIPS line. Aylmer District conservation officers investigated and determined that Dierckens intentionally drove his vehicle into a flock of geese, killing three goslings.

Justice of the Peace Anna Hampson heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Chatham, on August 16.

To report a natural resource violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Residents want 24/7 nursing care returned to Pelee Island

By Pat Bailey

About 70 residents, visitors and others with ties to Pelee Island took to the picket line on Thursday afternoon — demanding a solution to the reduced clinic hours on the island.

"It's an informational picket to bring to light the loss of our 24/7 medical coverage in our community," said Pelee Island Mayor Rick Masse.

He said their medical coverage was cut as of July 1.

Their voices were heard.

Leamington District Memorial Hospital CEO John Stenger met with Masse on the picket line to hear their concerns and discuss possible solutions to the problem.

Then Stenger went back an set up an information session on the island Wednesday, Aug. 24, to give residents and those affected by the reduction in health care services a chance to meet with hospital officials to discuss the situation. The meeting will begin at 8 p.m. at the Pelee Island Winery.

Leamington District Memorial Hospital CEO John Stenger, Gary Switzer, CEO of the Erie St. Clair LHIN and Roberta Jarescni, vice-president patient services and chief nursing executive for LDMH will be on hand to listen to the questions and concerns of the residents.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Leamington OPP, Firefighters Play Friendly Ball Game

Posted 2 hours ago

by C. Scott Holland

It was a pleasant summer night this past Sunday as the Leamington OPP and Leamington Firefighters met at the Kinsmen ball diamonds to play a friendly game of baseball.

A small crowd was on hand to enjoy the match and despite the lopsided final score, both squads played hard and showed those in attendance that these men who serve our community do have athletic abilities.

Former Leamington Fire Chief Bob Bradt, who recently retired, threw the ceremonial first pitch to Town of Leamington representative Deputy-Mayor Charlie Wright.

For the Leamington OPP team, it was a 26-4 nine inning romp which began with six runs being scored in the first two innings and another half dozen in the sixth. The Firefighters just couldn't collect any key hits until the late innings.

Scott Wilkinson of the OPP team went six for six and had a two-run homer. Every member of the OPP squad had at least one hit and one run scored.

Derrick Clark and Jordan Stubbert led the Firefighters with three for four performances and Adam Sellon went three for three.

Organizer Kevin O'Neil was pleased with the contest although it was hoped each side might have had a few more players out. But after this first meeting one can be sure that a re-match will be held next year with the Firefighters looking for revenge.

Southshore Scuba Club invades Tobermory

Don Gage, Leamington Post

The Southshore Scuba Club traveled north on Friday August 12 for a club dive at Fathom Five National Park in Tobermory.

The members participated in a night dive exercise at Little Cover on Friday Night and they explored four wrecks on a dive charter on Saturday.

The club dove the James C. King (1901), the W.I. Wetmore (1901), the Niagara II (1999) and the Caroline Rose (1990).

The Caroline Rose is an exact replica of the famous Bluenose.

Dan Fowler and Chris Moroun were the dive co-ordinators.

  

Coming Up

AUGUST

August 25 and September 1 — The Leamington Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 220 Erie St. N., will hold 'vegetarian cooking' classes in the basement hall from 6 to 8 p.m. Thc cost is $5 per night, or $10 for all three nights. For further information, or to register, call 326-5216 or 519-726-5300. Limited seating.

August 27 & 28 - Art by the River, Essex County's oldest arts and crafts show. Browse their wares from 10-5 on the beautiful grounds of Fort Malden National Historic Site. Enjoy musical entertainment and magic, paint a picture at the "little artist workshop" in the children's area or take a guided historic tour. Admission is $4.50, children 12 and under are free (when accompanied by an adult). No pets please. Art by the River-an olde town, end of summer tradition since 1967. See www.gibsonartgallery.com

SEPTEMBER

September 2 — St. John's Anglican Church will host a pig roast at the Leamington Marina from 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $6 for children. Tickets available by call 326-3111 or 326-4042.

September 7 — There will be a Leamington blood donor clinic from noon to 7:30 p.m. at the Portuguese Club, 217Talbot St. W. Call 1-888-2DONATE (1-888-236-6283) for information or to book an appointment. Walk-ins welcome.

September 7 — Shoooters' Photography Club will meet from 7 to 10 p.m. at Colasanti's. Chad Riley of the Leamington Arts Centre wil discuss their up and coming photo show, including how to show photos. For further information contact Ann Cotter at 733-3266 or anncott@gmail.com.

September 9 — Kingsville Library's 'adult book club' will meet at 9 a.m. This month's selection if 'Sanctuary Line' by Jane Urquhart.

September 10 — Kingsville Historical Park Museum will host an auction sale at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 188, Kingsville at 7 p.m. It begins at 7 p.m. and will include quilts, dolls, gift certificates, gifts, etc. Tickets are $20 and include light refreshments and desserts and door prizes. For further information or tickets call Wayne or Katherine Gunning at 519-839-4731.

September 13 — The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) will present the 'Family to Family' education program for families of individuals with serious mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, depression, bipolar, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. The 11-week course starts today in Leamington. To register, or for further information call Earl at 324-9498 or Noreen at 322-0163.

September 16 — Come celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Community Living Essex County at a Dinner and Celebration Gala at the Ciociaro Club in Oldcastle. Cocktails at 5:30pm, Dinner at 6:00pm. Dance to the music of Last Minute. Tickets are $50 and available by calling 519-776-6483, ext 0, or visit www.communitylivingessex.org.

September 17 — The Leamington Salvation Army, 88 Setterington St., will host a fall bazaar and bake sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

September 17 — Olinda-Ruthven Church, 1907 Queen Blvd., Ruthven will host a broasted chicken dinner from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $14 for adults, $7 for children and under five, free. Take out available. For further information call 326-2506 or 326-4570.

September 17 — The Leamington Library will host 'Amazing Animals' at 1 p.m. for youngsters aged 6-10. Register at the library.

September 22 — The Kingsville Library will host 'back to school is cool' at 4:30 p.m. for youngsters aged seven and up. Register at the library.

September 24 & 25 — Join the fun of the 32nd Annual Ruthven Apple Festival on Saturday, September 24th and Sunday, September 25th at Colasanti's Tropical Gardens in Ruthven. Fun for the whole family with all proceeds to Community Living Essex County. Enjoy over 100 craft and food vendors, parade,entertainment and car show, Farmer's Market. For more information call 519-776-6483, ext 246, or visit www.communitylivingessex.org.

. September 28 — The Kingsville Library will host 'toddlertime' each Wednesday through Nov. 23 at 10:15 a.m. for children aged 18-36 months with their caregiver. Pre-register at the library.

September 29 — The Leamington Library wil host 'baby storytime' each Thursday through Nov. 24 at 10:15 a.m. for babies aged 0-18 months with their caregiver. Register at the library.

September 29 — The Kingsville Library will host 'baby storytime' at 10:15 a.m. for babies aged 0-18 months with caregiver. Pre-register at the library.

September 29 — Kingsville Library will host 'September scarecrows' at 4:30 p.m. for youngsters aged 4-6. Register at the library.

OCTOBER

October 1 — The Lions Club of Kingsville will host a Thanksgiving Bingo at Lions Community Hall, 23 Mill St. W. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. with bingo starting at 2 p.m. Children accompanied by an adult are welcome. The proceeds benefit the Kingsville Food Bank and the Leamington Hospital Foundation. Guests are asked to bring non-perishable itsm for the Kingsville Food Bank.

October 5 — Leamington Library will host 'family storytime' each Wednesday until Nov. 30 at 10:30 a.m. for ages 18 months to five years with a caregiver. Register at the library.

October 16 — 'Taking Steps Against Breast Cancer' will be held at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex with participant check-in at 9 a.m. and walk start time at 10 a.m. The non-competitive walk, one to five kilometers, supports breast cancer research. To register online or for further information visit www.takingsteps.ca or call committee chair (Deb) at 326-6199.

Non-profit and charitable organizations in the South Essex area are eligible to have events listed in Coming Up.

To have items included in the column, drop us a line at least two weeks before the event. Tell us briefly what's going on and the time, date and location. If a telephone number would help, include it.

Drop this information off, fax or mail it to Coming Up, Leamington Post, 75 Oak St. W., Leamington, Ontario, N8H 2B2, fax 519-326-2171.

HELPING CAREGIVERS SPEND MORE TIME WITH SICK FAMILY MEMBERS

For August 17, 2011

MERLIN—MPP Pat Hoy says the Ontario government is proposing to expand protected leave from work by allowing caregivers to spend more time with family members who cannot care for themselves because of serious injury or illness including cancer or stroke.

"Let's say someone is in a serious car accident, or perhaps an elderly parent falls and breaks a hip. These examples are not terminal. But the care and support from family members is critical," said Hoy. "Family Caregiver Leave would be in addition to the Family Medical Leave — that means if while you are caring for a loved one under the Family Caregiver Leave and their condition becomes terminal, you would then also be entitled to the Family Medical Leave."

"Giving caregivers the opportunity to care and support their family members would benefit all Ontarians. We know our health care system will be under strain as our population continues to age," said Hoy. "This leave could mean that for a few weeks or a couple months an elderly parent would be taken care of at home instead of in a hospital or long-term care facility, actually saving money."  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

EXTRA FUNDS FOR LDMH

MPP Pat Hoy announced last week that Leamington District Memorial Hospital will get an extra $178,500 to support their Physician Assistant Demonstration Project.

"This is something unique that we are funding," said Hoy. "Physician assistants can play a vital role in a hospital or emergency room, adding to the quality of care that local residents are provided."

The provincial one-time funding will be provided over two years, to support the continued participation of LDMH in the PADP.

A physician assistant is concerned with preventing, maintaining, and treating human illness and injury by providing a broad range of health care services that are traditionally performed by a physician. PAs conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, counsel on preventive health care, assist in surgery, and write prescriptions.

Hoy said the McGuinty government is investing at historic levels in the health of local residents, including:

An extra $3.3 million for the region's hospital emergency rooms.

Expanding Breast Cancer coverage to younger women, with a new screening centre at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.

To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

4-H News

4-H Beef Club tour the Morris Beef Farm

By: Mikayla Nelson

On July 27th the beef club met at Shaun Morris's beef farm to do a tour. The group stood for the 4-H pledge. We then moved out into one of Shaun's many paddocks where the cows were grazing, there we discussed how long the cattle would stay in each paddock. They would stay there until the grass was mostly eaten, but not over grazed. What were they eating? They were eating grass and some white clover. They liked the nice green grass not the course, dry grass. Shaun took us to see his three bulls in the pasture. We learned that they like to dig holes everywhere but Shaun was unsure why they do that. He also joked about being chased by a bull, telling us that you only have to be faster than the slowest person in the group to get away. Kind of funny and also makes you think a bit. We walked back to visit some more cattle in the feed lot then we walked into his processing barn and learned the process he uses to vaccinate his cattle. Mrs and Mr. Morris brought the group a lovely snack to end off this great tour!

To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Valvoline Express Care first one in Canada

Mark Ribble

Leamington Post

     After almost 20 years in business, the Pennzoil 10-minute oil change operation at Erie North and Wilkinson Drive has changed over to Valvoline Express Care

Manager Wes Cronheimer and staff invite current and future customers to experience the Valvoline brand first-hand. The Leamington location is the first Valvoline Express Care in the country.

     "A number of factors went into our decision to offer our customers Valvoline products," said Cronheimer. "Our business was founded on providing the best services for the best value to our customers and harnessing the power of the brand more mechanics recommend for their own vehicles, helps us do just that," he added.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Cyclist seriously injured in collision

A 33-year-old female Kingsville cyclist suffered serious injuries when she collided with a vehicle on Erie Street South Friday nighta about 7 p.m.

According to Leamington OPP, the woman crossed the two southbound lanes and the two northbound lanes when she crashed head-on with a 2002 Sunfire, heading north.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Survivors given opportunity to say thanks for second chance

By Pat Bailey

Cheryl Smith remembers hoisting a few shovelfuls of dirt and then sitting down — she has absolutely no memory of what happened next on July 14, 2010.

But on Friday morning she learned some of the details that she is unable to fill in — such as going into cardiac arrest and being resuscitated.

Smith was one of a handful of Windsor and Essex County residents who lived to tell the tale of the importance of quick thinking and immediate response in a cardiac emergency.
The 63-year-old Essex woman came face-to-face with those who were responsible for saving her life — members of the Essex Fire Department as well as paramedics from Essex Windsor EMS at the 1st Annual Survivors' Day event at the Essex Civic Centre.
Randy Mellow, chief of Essex Windsor EMS, said the event was held to acknowledge the importance of involvement and teamwork from the moment a cardiac incident begins — from recognizing the symptoms, to calling 911, to performing CPR, to applying the defibrillator.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Boater safety program at the marina Aug. 26

In light of the recent tragedy at the Leamington Marina, the municipality will host a boater safety awareness program Friday, Aug. 26, at the Leamington Marina from 3 to 8 p.m.

Transport Canada will be on hand with its boating safety display trailer to provide information and resources regarding safe boating practices.

There is no charge for the event and members of the boating community, as well as the general public, are invited to attend.

At just 14, Getty tearing up the golf course — locally, nationally and internationally

By Pat Bailey

When Alyssa Getty had the opportunity to meet professional golfer Stephen Ames in March she told him of one of her major goals this golfing season — to qualify for his tournament, the 7th Annual Stephen Ames Cup.

And never one to back down from a challenge — the Leamington golfer not only made the cut as one of only four female junior golfers to tee off in Calgary last week representing the Canadian Junior Golf Associations' Team Canada. Alyssa and her partner were the only team to go undefeated in tournament play.

She and her teammates, as well as four Canadian male counterparts, squared off against Team Trinidad and Tobago in a Ryder Cup style competition.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Flashbacks

Wednesday, August 17, 1977

Members of the Leamington Recreation and Agriculture Centre Corporation voted Thursday to turn its building over to the town of Leamington — the result came after a 2 ½ hour discussion. Council will apply for Wintario Grants to pay for the roof restructuring and appoint a new board of management for the arena.

———

Residents of Marentette Beach subdivision have expressed concern over the prospect of heavy truck traffic through the summer cottage area. Parks Canada plans to used the two-mile private road as a route for the transportation of some 80,000 tons of gravel and armor stone which will be used to close a break in the beach at the northwest corner of Point Pelee National Park.

To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Bicycling infrastructure pays dividend

By David Suzuki

Most arguments against bike lanes are absurd. Consider this: We have wide roads everywhere to accommodate cars, most of which carry only one person. On either side of many of those roads, we have pedestrian sidewalks. In most large urban areas, we also have bus lanes and transit systems such as subways and rapid transit. When cyclists ride on roads, drivers often get annoyed. If they ride on sidewalks, pedestrians rightly get angry.

Human-powered transportation will only get more popular as gas prices rise and as the negative consequences of our car-centric culture increase. We should be doing everything we can to discourage single-occupant automobile use while encouraging public transit and pedestrian and pedal-powered movement.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Lavoie brings gold, silver and bronze home from Scotland

Cody Lavoie's personal best in the 200-metre backstroke turned into a gold medal performance for the local swimmer.

Lavoie, a student at Leamington District Secondary School, was one of an eight-member swim team representing Canada at the International Youth Games in Glasgow, Scotland recently, competing against othere 15-year-olds from all over the world.

Lavoie was thrilled with his performance.

"I can't wait to get home and tell everybody," he said following the race. "The community has been so supportive."

He said, when in the midst of a peak performance he can feel the support — even from across the ocean.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

Southpoint to host goalie clinic

Southpoint Minor Hockey will host a preseason goalie clinic on August 31 a the Wheatley Arena.

The clinic will run from 7 to 8:20 p.m.and is open to all goalies registered with Southpoint Minor Hockey.

To register, or for further information call Jim Quick at 519-825-9232 or visit the Southpoint Minor Hockey website.

NDP Leader Jack Layton dies after battle with cancer

By David Akin, Parliamentary Bureau Chief

Jack Layton, the leader of the official Opposition, died early Monday morning, his family said.

Layton, 61, had been battling cancer for more than a year and, a month ago, announced he was temporarily stepping aside from his job to fight the disease.

Layton's immediate family -- his wife, MP Olivia Chow, and his children, Sarah and Michael -- issued a statement at about 8:30 a.m. Monday morning.

"We deeply regret to inform you that The Honourable Jack Layton, leader of the New Democratic Party of Canada, passed away at 4:45 am today, Monday, Aug. 22. He passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family and loved ones. Details of Mr. Layton's funeral arrangements will be forthcoming."  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

LEAMINGTON CLAIMS THREE TITLES IN GIRLS TOURNEY

Leamington teams scored a Trifecta on Sunday when all three local teams won their respective championships in the Interlock Selects Girls Slo-Pitch Tournament held at the Kinsmen Basebsall Complex. Teams from Amherstburg, Essex, Harrow, Kingsville and Leamington competed. In the Junior division Leamington hung in for a 13 to 9 win over Harrow, in the Intermediate division Leamington beat Amherstburg by an identical 13 to 9 score, while in the Senior division Leamington mercied Harrow 15 to 3 in a five inning contest.

All three Leamington teams posted perfect 6 and 0 records, going an unblemished 4 and 0 in round robin play, then winning both their semi-final and championship games.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.

IODE hopes to fill cold weather need, collecting coats for adults

Temperatures may be soaring right now, but members of the Right Honourable Sir Winston Churchill IODE are already thinking about the cold weather.

The non-profit group will be collecting gently worn coats to help keep some of the area's less fortunate adults a little warmer when the weather eventually turns cold.

President Helene Dietrich said their group was approached because there is a real need for adult winter coats in this community.

The collection of coats has already begun and they will be distributed in November in Leamington, Wheatley and Kingsville.

Anyone who would like to donate a coat or jacket can call Dietrich at 326-5693.