Always Free! April 2019 | Issue 12 Pg 1

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ALWAYS FREE! APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 1

Spring Swan - Credits to Steve Donnelly Enroll Now ! • Personal Support Worker • System Controls Specialist • Power Engineering Techniques CLASS 4 Call Continuing Education Classes! 519-633-2030 Sign up now for Continued Education to arrange a Classes campus tour! St. Thomas/Elgin Regional Campus 120 Bill Martyn Parkway E: [email protected]

St. Thomas, ON N5R 6A7 https://www.fanshawec.ca/about-fanshawe/ Tel: 1-519-633-2030 campus/st-thomas-campus APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 3 CHANGES TO AUTISM PROGRAM DRAW PROTESTS

By Elgin Life Staff costs tens of thousands of dollars per year. then it would shift to $5,000 per year). that MacLeod had previously engaged in dangerous rhetoric with the organiza- There have been protests aplenty since In other words, the controversy stems Thanks to the province-wide protests, tion, allegedly saying to the group that Lisa MacLeod, the provincial govern- from the amount of funding – and the way these figures will be increased, and in if they didn’t support the new program, ment’s Minister of Children, Community funding will be handled – under the new some cases doubled. But even still, the and Social Services, announced chang- program. Though the changes were made es to Ontario’s autism program in Feb- in an effort to clear a waitlist of around ruary (and she also garnered additional 23,000 children around the province, the controversy surrounding comments she result, autism advocates say, may be of little made to an autism group, which prompt- help to any children. The reasoning is that ed many to call for her resignation). while the proposed plan dispenses money more evenly, the result is that treatment At a protest in St. Thomas last month, par- may become unaffordable for most fami- ticipants voiced their concerns, echoing lies, given the high cost of autism therapies. the sentiments of the experts and advocates who say the changes to the program, Those therapies include IBI (Intensive Be- whose original budget was $321 million havioural Intervention) and ABA (Applied per year, will result in not nearly enough Behaviour Analysis), which are the recom- support for parents to afford proper treat- mended best treatments for children with ment for their young children with autism. autism. At young ages, children require many hours of therapy (in more severe cas- Protestors – many of them parents of es, up to 30 or 40 hours per week). And the children with autism – gathered outside cost can be significant. That cost may be un- MPP Jeff Yurek’s office to voice their con- affordable with the new changes, critics say. cerns – namely, that the new changes will result in less care – and a lower quality Under the original program announced of treatment – for children with autism. by the provincial government, the family of a child diagnosed with autism at seven As a result of the province-wide protests, years old would be eligible for $55,000 for the government upped the budget, virtually the entirety of their childhood ($5,000 per doubling it to at least $600 million per year. year). But in more severe cases of autism, That announcement came after roughly six that money may run out after six months weeks of intense pressure from parents and or a year, given the high cost of thera- question remains as to how families will they would be in for ‘a long four years.’ advocates. Some of the new changes also pies. That’s not justifiable, advocates say. cover the costs, especially in cases where include the elimination of ‘income testing,’ a child requires more intensive therapy. That revelation prompted calls for Ma- and more services being made available, Under a different scenario under the cLeod to resign. For her part, the Minis- including speech and occupational therapy. original program, given the age differ- The Ontario Association for Behaviour ter apologized on Twitter, saying, in part, ence and need for more intensive therapy Analysis (ONTABA) vehemently opposed ‘This is an issue I take very personally and But even with the doubling of the budget, early in life, a family was eligible to re- the new changes, arguing that proper I apologize if my comments made any- the question still remains as to how families ceive up to $140,000 for a child in treat- care will be out of reach for most fami- one feel threatened or uncomfortable.’ will be able to afford the proper treatments ment from age two to 18 ($20,000 would lies. Meanwhile, it was revealed shortly for their children – treatments that can be received each year up to age 6, and after the autism program announcement

MARCH BREAK EVENT AT LONGWOODS ROAD CONSERVATION AREA AND SKA NAH DOHT VILLAGE - STANDING BEAR YOUTH LEADERSHIP CAMP

many nations, Turtle Island is the name for Fisher-Abram, a youth from COTTFN, who and corn husk dolls to name a few. Low- North America. The Standing Bear rep- worked with and participated in the Stand- er Thames Valley Conservation Authori- resents showing strength in the face of ad- ing Bear Youth Leadership March Break ty Community Educator from COTTFN, versity. It provides us with a guide in how Camp, the program not only helped her “to Carlyn Johnston, led the youth through we can be resilient as Indigenous youth grow and develop as a leader,” but strength- the nature trails, teaching about medicinal to move forward with our Indigenous ened her identity as an Indigenous person plants and First Nation’s history. “Our histo- values to address the issues that we face. “through cultural teachings and teachings ry and ways of knowing as Indigenous peo- about the natural environment.” Tahlanna ple comes from the land. Environmental During the recent March break, ISWO part- Miskokomon, of COTTFN and Walpo- stewardship is taught to us through our cre- nered with the Lower Thames Valley Con- le Island, “learned many valuable lessons ation story, through our language and our servation Authority (LTVCA) and hosted a throughout the week.” She would “like to culture.” Many knowledge holders, teachers Standing Bear camp at the Longwoods Road see more Standing Bear camps happen and elders joined the youth throughout the - By Carlyn Johnston Conservation Area and Ska Nah Doht Vil- in the future for the benefit of the youth.” week, passing on their knowledge and wis- lage near Delaware, ON. Youth from neigh- dom on a variety of subjects. Wisdom and For many Indigenous people, young bouring First Nations of Chippewas of the Participating in what might seem like small knowledge of community elders and ances- and old, culture is the key to self-identi- Thames First Nation (COTTFN), Oneida cultural activities can actually have a very tors, culture and traditions, are important ty. It’s our culture that reminds us of who Nation of the Thames and Muncee-Delaware big impact. Simply being surrounded by in creating a toolbox of resources to guide, we are, where we come from, and how to Nation attended the camp. There were also your culture can change the way you think, inspire and give strength to Indigenous move forward. Understanding how an- participants from Aamjiwnaang First Na- learn and do. A critical piece to Indigenous youth as they grow to become leaders in cestors before us navigated the waters tion, Walpole Island First Nation and Kettle culture is learning from the land. Through- their communities and across Turtle Island. and land of mother earth can guide us in and Stony Point First Nation in attendance. out the March Break Indigenous Youth making good life decisions in the present. Standing Bear Leadership camp at Long- To learn more about the Standing Bear The Standing Bear Youth Leadership Pro- There are many community programs woods Road Conservation Area, there were Youth Leadership Program and fu- gram was developed by Indigenous Sport across Turtle Island working to connect a variety of teachings of culture, with a fo- ture Standing Bear Youth events, visit and Wellness Ontario (ISWO) in consul- youth with cultural education. The Stand- cus on Traditional Ecological Knowledge. www.iswo.ca or contact Carlyn John- tation with 550 Indigenous youth across ing Bear program was created by Indige- The Standing Bear youth made their own ston at [email protected]. Turtle Island. For Indigenous people from nous youth, for Indigenous youth. For Cora hand drums, bird houses, paintings, pottery APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 4

RESILIENCY EVENT SHOWCASES INSPIRING BUSINESSWOMEN

By Elgin Life Staff their stories of resilience – both per- who grew up on her family’s coffee farm sonally and professionally – as they (which has spanned four generations). In March 8 marked International Women’s have started or grown business- St. Thomas, she has poured her passion Day, and in Elgin County the month in- es and/or non-profit organizations. for coffee into two ventures as co-own- cluded a celebration of women in busi- er and coffee roaster of Las Chicas del ness, including a special event on March Among those sharing their stories were Café and Streamliners Espresso bar. 21: ‘A Walk in Her Shoes: Stories of Re- Maria Fiallos (Las Chicas Del Café and siliency,’ which was hosted by the Small Streamliners Espresso Bar), Jazz Stad- Staddon has persevered through humble Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) and don (The BROW BOSS and all that Jazz), beginnings, growing up in poverty, to held at the Princess Avenue Playhouse. Stephanie Brown (Living Alive Granola), launching a successful business as a sin- and Kelly Franklin (Courage for Freedom). gle mom. At The BROW BOSS and all It was truly a night of inspiration, as that Jazz, she provides affordable esthet- women from all walks of life shared Fiallos is a transplanted Nicaraguan ics, noting that ‘everyone deserves to look

Jazz Staddon (right), an Elgin County business owner, was one of the speakers who shared her story at ‘A Walk in Her Shoes: Stories of Resiliency,’ an inspiring event that was held on March 21 at the Princess Avenue Playhouse

Happy and feel great!’ In overcoming several hur dles, Staddon credits a supportive community for helping her achieve her goals.

Brown operates Living Alive Granola, Holidays! which she started in her kitchen when her kids were little. Along with her husband, Joe Preston, Stephanie has grown the business over the last three years and distributes to many retailers. She has had her share of challenges along the way, primarily dealing with Bipo- lar Disorder, but it hasn’t stopped her from overcoming and persevering.

Franklin is a well-known leader in the community and a champion when it comes to the prevention of human sex trafficking, as well as providing equine therapy to victims of sex trafficking. YOU DESERVE She operates Farmtown Canada, as well YOUYOU DESERVE DESERVE DESERVEas Courage for Freedom (a division of ElginWestElginWest Elgin...County Elgin...County Farmtown). She was recently invited ElginWestElginWest Elgin...County Elgin...County to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women and she contin- ues to inspire many in the community. DUTTONDUTTON - - SERVICENOW SERVICENOW AVAILABLE AVAILABLE DUTTONDUTTONWALLACETOWN-WALLACETOWN- - - SERVICENOW SERVICENOW SERVICENOW SERVICENOW AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE UltraUltra High- High- Noted the SBEC on their Instagram page UltraUltra High- High- the week after the event: ‘If we learned WALLACETOWN-WALLACETOWN-EAGLEEAGLE - - SERVICEAVAILABLE SERVICEAVAILABLE SERVICENOW SERVICENOWNOW AVAILABLE SOON SOON AVAILABLE AVAILABLE SpeedSpeed Internet Internet anything from the incredible women who EAGLEWESTWEST - SERVICEAVAILABLE LORNE LORNE - - SERVICEAVAILABLESOON SERVICEAVAILABLESOONNOW SOON AVAILABLE spoke at A Walk in Her Shoes last week, EAGLE - SERVICEAVAILABLE SOON SpeedSpeed Internet Internetit was that everyone has a story. Every- RODNEY- SERVICE AVAILABLE THISSPRINGFALL •FASTERDOWNLOADS•FASTERDOWNLOADS WESTWESTRODNEY- LORNE LORNE - - SERVICEAVAILABLETHIS SERVICEAVAILABLESOON SERVICEAVAILABLESOON FALL one has something that maybe they hide Office Locations: •FASTERDOWNLOADS•FASTERDOWNLOADS•MORE•MORE SPEED SPEED or ignore. But that thing can be the thing RODNEY-RODNEY- SERVICEAVAILABLETHIS SERVICEAVAILABLETHIS FALL FALL that can start a fire and inspire someone West Lorne - 224 Graham St. else to rise up and meet their potential.’ OfficeDutton Locations: - 188 Currie Rd. •MORE•MORE SPEED SPEED HIGH SPEEDINTERNET West Lorne - 224 Graham St. The Elgin/St. Thomas Small Business CallTeri or Danielle Enterprise Centre’s mission is to serve DIGITAL TV •PHONE Dutton(226) 212-0041 - 188 Currie Rd. HIGH SPEED INTERNET • DIGITAL TV •PHONE local small business owners and aspir- Dutton ing entrepreneurs. Through their part- HIGH SPEEDINTERNETWest Lorne CallTeri or Danielle Mon. 10 amTuesday – 5 pm |to Tues. 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APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 5 MERIDA OPENS THE DOOR TO DISCOVERY - by Don Kelly The owners, Paul from Ireland and Martine scheduled for one evening. The goal was to get a from Belgium had done an incredible job ball through a stone hoop some- It started with a conversation with an inter- of restoring and enhancing their properties times twenty feet above the nationally known local graphic artist. We (they also owned the adjacent one next door) ground without using your hands. anxiously opened the colourful door to his in keeping with local colours and traditions. Ontario cottage during the annual London Unfortunately it was cancelled. It has Artwalk. Soon we were in deep discussion The tiles contained the embroidered design been around several thousand years with him when he mentioned a city in Mex- of the local women’s dresses. Antique furni- and I am sure the game will con- ico that was the centre for the arts that he ture was purchased or constructed locally as tinue for several more centuries! regularly visited. That immediately drew was artwork, wrought iron staircase , lamp our interest. Excited by his art and our shades, mosaics, stained glass and more. Of course for the museum lover, there conversation, we somehow mixed up the Two giant wooden doors were discovered in is no end of museums to visit includ- names and decided it must be Merida, Mex- a Mexican farmer’s barn. He had them stored ing the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya ico (it was actually San Miguel de Allen- for forty years and noted that they were de Merida (artifacts/info on Yucatan de). And that is how our adventure began! 200 years old but covered with many coats history), Popular Art Museum and the of paint. Needless to say they were beauti- Museum of Anthropology and History. Merida Street Scene After all, WestJet flew in and of Merida. fully restored. Clearly an oasis of beauty! With a population of over 700 000, con- In addition, there are many small art gal- sisting largely of Mayan descendants, also Our studio room was at the rear of the leries scattered around. One interesting there would be many art galleries and cer- property, with a pool in the courtyard, sep- gallery we visited called Nahualli featured tainly the climate would be appealing. Me- arating us from the main house complete- a husband, wife and daughter ... all gift- rida is off the beaten path for many tour- ly filled with fine furniture and antiques. ed artists in their own right. However, ists, who head to Cancun and then down Martine took us on a tour of both proper- it was a little bit out of our price range! to the Mayan Riviera. This is surely a place ties. The property next door was totally re- artists would seek out. Merida is approxi- done with eight gorgeous rooms added on The food in Merida is somewhat different mately 300 km west of Cancun and a short and a pool styled after Versace’s in Miami. from other parts of the Yucatan although thirty-five km from the Gulf of Mexico. we didn’t notice much of a difference. One would never guess, standing on Calle Habanero peppers, different fruits, lime In our trip planning, we discovered that 66 what would be behind that wooden door! soup and salbutes (pictured) are among Merida was the colourful capital of the Yu- some of the local food. We even noticed catan. The Mayans have populated parts We were now ready to begin our adven- a bucket of roasted crickets with a slice of the Yucatan well before 2000 B.C. It is ture and discover Merida. Coinciden- of lime being sold in one of the squares! located centrally for some interesting ex- tally there was a month long music fes- cursions. As with many other Mexican cit- tival and we were fortunate enough to For those looking for a beach, the well ies, it has rich historical beginnings with a have landed right in the middle of it. known Progreso Beach is approximate- blend of Spanish and Mayan cultures that ly 45 km away and would make a good have left their mark on the churches and We were assured the streets were safe at day trip. Keep in mind it is a cruise other colonial building throughout the city. all hours and felt quite comfortable ex- port and can be quite crowded at times. ploring the nooks and crannies around Searching Air B and B, we discovered a Calle 66. If crime statistics were com- On our last day in Merida, we decided to casita (guest house) located a short dis- pared to American cities, Merida would take an excursion to see the surrounding tance from the centre of the city. We be ranked in the top three safest cities! countryside. One of the wonders of the decided we would fly to Cancun and world, Chichen Itza is 75 miles away and then take a bus northwest up to Merida. The main street Calle 60 had many although quite interesting was overrun Arriving in Cancun, taxis are readily avail- of the notable buildings includ- with vendors and tourists. Regardless the able at the airport. The bus depot is a distance ing churches, parks and restaurants Mayan ruins were quite impressive and from the airport. The bus was quite luxuri- ... a ten to fifteen minute walk away. there is an extensive area to cover scat- ous and could easily rival our Greyhounds. tered with various ruins. Many recom- Finally arriving in Merida after a four hour As in many Mexican towns and cities, the mended the ruins at Uxmal, with fewer ride, we weren’t quite sure what to expect. central square is where much of the ac- crowds and a more relaxed surrounding. tion takes place. Plaza Grande was cer- The taxi driver stopped at the address we gave tainly where it was happening. Surround- We also stopped in Izamal also known as the him but it didn’t appear we were at the cor- ed by many restaurants, it takes up an Yellow City. Many of the buildings are paint- rect address. The doors of each building are entire block. It is clearly the commercial ed yellow. It is a sleepy Mexican town but Local Dancers directly on the street with the narrow side- and community hub of Merida. Each night had a bustling food market area. It would be walks right out your front door. Quite a differ- the entertainment changed from drum- a good idea to know your Spanish before you ent concept from our North American man- mers to a classical band and numerous order. There are some ruins located nearby. icured lawns, driveways and landscaping. dancing groups. The music and dancing can be heard and enjoyed for many hours. The highlight of the day was swimming in Some of the buildings appeared in fine con- Many vendors set up around the park, sell- a cenote. Cenotes are sinkholes that contain dition, while others were clearly in a state of ing everything from local Mexican food water that is very clear – connected to the disrepair or in the process of being renovated. to crafts available at the various booths. underground water table and combined with rain water. Often the water can be over one I knocked on the door but no answer. The Across from Plaza Grande is the Merida Ca- hundred feet deep with the sides of the sink- taxi driver was hesitant to leave. I knocked thedral. The Cathedral was built on Mayan hole often seventy-five feet below the land again and still no answer. Were we at the ruins during the 16th century. It is surface. There are thousands of cenotes in the right place? What was behind that door? the first cathedral built in Mexico. Yucatan and many are open for swimming. Was I invading someone’s private space? A short walk away is the bustling market The following morning we were off to I opened the door and was surprised at crammed with stall after stall. It is very the airport. Some cities do not have Uber our discovery. It was a world of difference popular - everyone comes out in the eve- but Merida does and we found it very ef- from the street we were standing on. We ning. It seems a Mexican custom that entire ficient and reasonably priced. We left were soon greeted by the owner and were families join in for the evening festivities. with many pleasant memories, know- assured we were at the correct address. ing there was so much more to discov- The ancient Mayan game of Pok-A-Tok was er behind the many doors of Merida. APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 6

CHATTING WITH PAULA MOULD ~ FINE ARTIST & AUTHOR

1. What got you interested/Started in Art? mostly, sometimes watercolour. It’s not an Fridays where we wrap up the week and easy subject to master and I will admit it What London really needs is studio space. answer any questions our members might I come from a creative family. So many took me a very long time, and a lot of frus- I’d love to be able to move my business to a have. Each live is designed to give members painters and sculptors and even musi- tration to get to the point where the work studio so I can get messy and bring people the tools to move forward in their business- cians. I grew up being surrounded by it. I produce is at a level I’m proud to share. in and teach, and just dig in. I haven’t been es. They are lively, fun, deep and engaging. But I never wanted to be in art, I excelled I love colour. LOVE is maybe not strong able to find anything suitable or anything in math and had a solid interest in sci- enough of a word. I am like a raven with geared towards artists. We need a proper There are also classes designed to give cre- ence and computer programming. Sad- bright colours and shiny things. But I also arts centre like the Clay Arts Centre but one atives the knowhow about branding and ly, this was right at the time when girls gravitate towards powerful emotions, ones that can accommodate other disciplines. marketing and mindset. Both Leigh and I were actively discouraged from pursuing that are traditionally seen as negative. Loss, have been self-employed for a very long time. those fields. I found myself unwelcome in despair, devastation and anything where I do find it disappointing that the few arts At one point her art was in so much demand the classes I loved so I fell back onto art. my subject is at rock bottom draws me in. hubs there are in London are crummy. Just she couldn’t keep up with the orders! These I’ve always been a nerd and so I focus on pop truly low budget. We need spaces that are online classes are thorough and made to I did go to school for art, illustration and culture for my subjects primarily. I love sto- light and bright and higher end that don’t get a creative business up and running fast. graphic design but on graduating, I found rytelling and the connection is gives us to hu- feel like 6 or 12 rats all scrabbling over a myself in the middle of a recession and manity’s past. You can step into any culture few crumbs. If you look at London UK, And finally there’s one to one mentoring. having to make a choice between strug- in any time period and find it full of stories. they have a ton of affordable spaces specifi- Again, online using Zoom or Skype, we gling to get a graphic business set up or cally for artists and they support the arts in spend an hour of time helping creatives leaping into the newly emerging inter- As much as this kind of art gets poo-pooed ways we should too. Now, granted they are find the profit angle of their business. net and digital media industries. Pro- as fan art, it’s actually a retelling of the sto- a lot larger than us, but we aren’t even in Anyone booking in a call gets a recording grammers were always paid better than ries through my interpretation. A chance the ball park in terms of supporting artists. of that call and a plan to move forward. artists so really, the choice was obvious. to pause a moment, capture a feeling and We believe that the only reason there are I never lost my love of creating, though really get deep with it. I’ve had several peo- 4. What do you recommend an aspiring starving artists is because artists don’t it went on hiatus when I started my ple buy my work even though they didn’t artist do to find success? know how to do the business side of their family and became self-employed. know the character or show it was from and work. They fear and resent it instead. Mar that tells me I’m doing something right. Take business and branding courses. I It was a moment, a certain death expe- co-founded a business called The Cre- keting is a chance to connect with the rience that happened which put every- I use my art to connection with my audi- ative Visionary. It’s designed to help cre- right audience and it’s empowering and thing back into perspective for me. In ence. To make a difference in the real world. atives (artists, writers, musicians etc) pull energizing when you know how to do it. March of 2015, I found myself facing an I spent a year and a half painting for a sui- their brand together and get the validation oncoming vehicle on the 401 just out- cide help line called IMAlive. My paintings and financial recognition they deserve. All of my paintings are done with neon side of Woodstock. For several seconds, were all donated and signed by the cast of There’s a huge gap in the market which colours even though the subject matter maybe minutes, I knew I was staring my the American TV show Supernatural. I also hurts artists, and all creatives: business impending end in the face. And I hadn’t painted to support local shelters for women. courses don’t address the unique needs done a thing I’d wanted to do with my life. of a creative business. Art courses don’t 3. As a local London artist, was there teach business. I know when I gradu- That moment changed everything for me resources here do to support you as an ated from school, I had no idea how to and I knew I had to make some big moves artist? What where they? Is there any- get work, market myself or anything. because no one’s time is guaranteed. By July thing that you think London could do to I was looking for studio space. By Septem- encourage other local artists? The Creative Visionary has a few parts ber I had a full body of work for my port- to it. There’s a free Facebook group folio. By October I was in not one but two It’s funny but I don’t make use of local sup- (www.facebook.com/groups/thecre- shows and things exploded from there. port. I tried to reach out to a few places to ativevisionary) which is lively and ac- Every time I got an opportunity, I said yes, even teach, because I love teaching, but I couldn’t tive. My business partner Leigh Shen- if it scared me. ESPECIALLY if it scared me. find any place that clicked. I have a business ton, a resin artist based in the UK, and background, I ran a 6 figure tech company I are in there live on video 6 days a week. My work is now in private collections for 18 years, so I don’t have the same ap- around the world. I’ve had gallery shows lo- proach to my creative business that a lot of Each day has a theme like Intention Sun- cally and in Europe. My art has been signed artists do. It’s not better or worse, but very days (planning out your week), Mindset by celebrities, and even in the home of one. different. For example, I won’t pay for wall Mondays (overcoming issues like procras- space ever. Doing that means the gallery’s tination or fear), Titillating Tuesdays (we 2. How or what is different or special about job isn’t selling art but selling wall space. interview an expert on a relevant topic), your art? I know artists have support here, I’ve got WINSdays (celebrating wins within the two kids in BealArt right now. There are a lot group), Thelma and Louise Thursdays My specialty is portrait painting. Acrylic of great galleries and venues for art shows. (where anything goes) and Gin O’clock “Despair”

“Chekov” “Hailing Frequencies Are Open” “No Point” APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 7

CHATTING WITH PAULA MOULD ~ FINE ARTIST & AUTHOR should require somber tones. I love that acrylic on stretched canvas. When 6. Is there anything that you like to share juxtaposition, almost a visual oxymo- it would be easier to just stay in about yourself with London? ron, of using cheerful, vibrant colours in bed. Another Supernatural painting paintings that are anything but cheerful. Supernatural is my home. The series is I’ve also written a book entitled Wake The about love, loss, family and the ties that F*ck Up! It’s designed for Gen-X women Despair – this is 36”x48” acrylic on bind. How far would we go for fami- who are looking around at their lives and stretched canvas. It’s from the Amer- ly? What does it take to face impossi- wondering how they can reclaim them. ican horror TV series Supernatural. ble tasks to solve problems? How fast These are the people who are done with The moment that Sam Winchester re- do we adapt to a world that is terrifying? the nitty gritty baby and toddler years, alized he was well and truly alone. and are surfacing only to realize that I loved this moment in the series. When “Chewie, We’re Home” 16”x20” acryl- they have come last in every situation. someone hits rock bottom and shows it ic on stretched canvas. That moment, The book is designed to be read in bursts. through their body language and expres- from The Force Awakens trailer, when Each chapter is a page or two long and sions, it calls to me. Life is messy, and the whole Star Wars fandom went nuts there are quick exercises to do to rein- uncomfortable and instead of wrapping I really wanted this movie to be good. This force the message. We’re all busy and dis- everything up in sunshine and rainbows, moment was powerful. I was five when Star tracted, catching a few minutes of break “Chewie, We’re Home” I’m all for celebrating the whole enchilada. Wars came out and I remember wanting to by hiding in the bathroom and hoping be Han Solo. Not just befriend him but BE the kids won’t notice. You can read a Defeat – this is 8”x10” acrylic on birch paint- him. So this moment made my heart speed whole chapter while hiding. The best part ing panel. It’s a moment from The Walking up and I remember hoping the movie would is, you don’t have to read the book in or- Dead’s season 7 opening episode. This was be good. Spoiler alert: it was not good. der. Just open a random page and go! the moment when I became hooked on the show and had to go back and watch the other Terror – 8”x10” acrylic on birch painting A huge part of this book was written be- seasons. That moment of hitting rock bot- panel. Classic Alien. I was introducing my cause I felt like my own certain death ex- tom is one I love to explore in my paintings. kid to the franchise and realized this is a mo- perience was my wake up call. So many This one is just so raw. Everything ment of raw terror. I love me some raw terror. women need one but it’s probably better that could go wrong has gone wrong. to do it without the drama mine includ- There is no hope. There is no help. Chekov – 16”x20” acrylic on stretched ed! Since my own waking up, my marriage canvas. This is part of my Star Trek ended, my tech company closed, I moved Laugh hard, run fast, be kind – is 18”x24” bridge series. I loved the original my kids and I to London, and I’m starting acrylic on stretched canvas. The moment Star Trek and grew up watching it. from scratch. The tools I used to get my- the twelfth Doctor from Doctor Who was self mentally from there to here are all in transforming into the 13th. This Doc- Hailing Frequencies Are Open – the book. So many people have messaged tor was one of my favourites, though the 16”x20” acrylic on stretched canvas. me to tell me how going through the book writing in his tenure was inconsistent Another in my Star Trek Bridge se- has helped them and I’m incredibly grate- at best, and I was so sad to see him go. ries. I always loved how Star Trek was ful that my words can make a difference. “Laugh hard, run fast, be kind” I grew up on Doctor Who as well. so forward back then, for the time, and https://www.amazon.ca/Wake-Up-Hit- The first Doctor was my first Doc- made room for women in the stories. ting-Snooze-Button/dp/1795066768/ tor. I remember the series terrify- I painted the whole bridge crew and then ing me and calling to me all at once. some, for two different gallery shows. 7. Do you have an upcoming exhibit or One locally and one in Toronto. I felt is there anything special we should know “Make It So” 8”x10” acrylic on canvas. This like it was my chance to create a visual about? Where, when? was a commission and the only instruction I love letter to a fandom that is my home. had was “red”. Since I know the person who You can find me online at www.PaulaM- commissioned it, I immediately thought I’ve also included a few IMAlive pho- ould.com and also on Patreon where you Star Trek. This is the moment when Picard is tos. The paintings are all my work, signed can sign up and take online art classes with recovering from his time as Locutus of Borg. by the actors of Supernatural plus the me https://www.patreon.com/PaulaMould Who doesn’t love a little Sir Pat- fans at Supernatural conventions around Find me on social media rick Stewart on their wall? the world, and then were auctioned off https://www.instagram.com/paulamould/ to raise funds for the helpline. I made https://twitter.com/PaulaMould “No Point” 8”x10” acrylic on stretched around 44 paintings, all 2’x4’ or larger, in You can find The Creative Visionary online canvas. This is a moment from Su- my time working with them. The end of here https://www.thecreativevisionary.com/ pernatural. A moment of resignation. my marriage ended my ability to continue. Since most of my work sells international- Sam4 – entitled “Giving Up” 8”x10” ly, I don’t tend to do local shows any more. “Make It So”

DAILY SPECIALS WE FEATURE Check out our PELEE ISLAND menu and specials out on facebook! WINES! NOW OPEN!! FREE BILLARDS! WE WILL HOST YOUR SPECIAL EVENTS!

170 Williams Street, Port Stanley | (519) 782-7272 APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 8

CURL FOR KIDS SAKE

We’ve asked our good friend Rimas Miknev to capture the same image from the same location every month to watch spring arrive in Elgin County!

Rimas Miknev should have received credit and our thanks for submitting the article and photo in March Elgin Life of the 2019 Rodney Big Buck and Outdoor Show. Our apologies for this error!

It was 'fandemonium' at the St. Thomas Curling Club on Saturday, March 16, as that was the theme for this year's Curl for Kids Sake fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters St. Thomas-Elgin. A total of 24 teams participated (96 curlers overall) in this year's event, which included two six-end curling games. Participants dressed in sports uniforms and brought a whole lot of energy for the great cause. Overall, the event raised $20,506, the proceeds of which will go towards mentoring programs for the non-profit organization, as well as upcoming recruitment campaigns.

Swans arriving in Aylmer - Credits to Shirley Goddeeris FOREST OF READING

Lake Erie Sunset - Credits to Jeff Vandoo

Elise Nagel Carlyn Johnston Sydney McIntyre Steve Donnelly Todd Devlin Carol Bennett Steve Nease Luke Vorstermans Akisha McKelley Jessica Nagel [email protected] Elgin County schools enjoy participating in the Forest of Reading, the largest rec- Gord Worrall 519-645-8000 495 RICHMOND ST. SUIT 105, reational reading program in the country. The initiative, which was launched and is Shirley Goddeeris LONDON, ONTARIO, N6A 5A9 overseen by the Ontario Library Association (OLA), encourages a love of reading in Barry Wade people of all ages -- but particularly tries to instill a love of reading among children. Rimas Miknev EDITOR’S NOTES: Here, Brian Masschaele, a volunteer reader (and the director of community and cultural Tim Sheridan The opinions voiced by our contributions do not necessarily represent the views of Elgin Life. services at the County of Elgin), reads to students at Springfield Public School (during Paula Mould the Forest of Reading day at the school, the kids read 10 Canadian books!). Don Kelly APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 9

5 WAYS TO HELP STOP THE SNIFFLES CAPTAIN MARVEL THIS ALLERGY SEASON (NC) Spring has sprung again and while Wear sunglasses or a hat – not only do they MOVIE REVIEW the warmer weather is definitely a wel- look good and block the sun, they also help come change, the return of itchy eyes and keep pollen off your body and out of your eyes. https://movies.disney.com/cap- a constantly dripping nose may not be. tain-marvel 3) Cover up when being active outside: If

It’s estimated that 25 per cent of Canadians are you are doing outdoor activities like cutting This movie is a MUST SEE! affected by seasonal allergies, and depending the lawn or gardening, consider wearing a

on what you are allergic to, allergy season may mask or scarf to cover your nose and mouth. Just had to start this review off on the not just affect you in the spring but could also 4) Protect yourself from pollen: We car- right note. I had no real expectations linger right up until the first frost in the fall. ry a lot of pollen into the home with when I sat down to watch this, although a us. Wash your bedding more frequent- friend had told me that it was not getting This spring, try to avoid the discomfort by ly during spring, summer and fall; keep good reviews (still not sure what he was getting to the bottom of what is causing your your windows closed and remember your smoking as he was completely off base). allergies before they start. Here are five tips pets can track pollen into the house, too. to help you get ahead of your symptoms: To be completely honest, I was appre- 5) Find the right product: Speaking to hensive after the first five minutes, as 1) Check the pollen forecast: Be on top your pharmacist can be your first line of it starts off assuming you remember of this as it can change daily and real- defense. They can help assess your symp- who the Kree and Skrull are, and un- ly affect your symptoms. If you’re plan- toms and recommend an over-the-count- fortunately, I didn’t, but luckily my ning on exercising, go to the gym or er medication or product. If your symp- seatmate did, and he doesn’t get angry exercise inside on warm, windy days. toms are more severe, pharmacists can when I ask questions. For me, it is after work with your doctor to make sure you this opening setup that the movie truly 2) When you are outside, protect yourself: have the right treatment option for you. started, and it was well worth the wait. Using this slow realization of who she Brie Larson plays Vers, a no-nonsense was and who she has become is a sub- mysterious Kree warrior who is hunt- tle but appealing method of revealing ing a Skrull shapeshifter, following the foundation of who Carol Danvers them to an unknown planet. Once is and how she can make a difference. there, it is revealed that it is Earth in the ‘90s. For those alive in this time As with any super-hero movie, CGI plays period, it will bring back some great a significant role and can either make memories, and sad ones, as she lands or break a film. For this one, the CGI in a Blockbuster movie theatre. Make was well done, and was part of the film, sure you watch the movies she grabs! but not the main focus, which is what I prefer. I also found the tech in this to Soon after Vers lands, she encounters a be very realistic and believable, unlike very well-crafted CGI de-aged Samuel L other superhero movies, which is most Jackson. The continuous banter between likely accredited to the year it is set in. the two characters is classic Marvel with a twist as it is a female protagonist lead- I highly recommend this movie to ev- ing the way. There is also the amazing erybody, even if you have no idea what Goose, a cat that steals any scene it is in a Kree is. By the end, you will know, and occasionally reduces Fury to a bab- and you will be rooting for Captain bling fool at times, but in a good way! Marvel to vanquish all her foes and be the one to protect earth forever more! Directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck stay true to the story, showing us how Carol Bennett reviews the latest movies Vers came to be throughout the movie, and performances ! instead of telling us in the beginning. Spring Birds ( April 1st ) -Credits to Gord Worrall

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(519) 914-4331 x1 | [email protected] 341 TALBOT ST. LONDON ON N6A 2R5 APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 10

THE HIPPO WATER ROLLER: A DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGY THAT WILL EMPOWER MILLIONS OF WOMEN AND GIRLS A SIMPLE DESIGN. A MASSIVE NEED. WHY DID IT TAKE SO LONG? By Luke Vorstermans is a simple solution to this tradition- hippo rollers make it possible for families to her traditional way of car- ry- al way of transport- ing water: the hippo and schools to collect water and grow their ing water and her answer is ex- act- For most of us, clean water comes with water roller. Developed in South Afri- own vegetables using a drip irrigation cap. ly what you would expect, “No, never!” the twist of a tap. But in rural develop- ca over 20 years ago, the hippo roller is But it is not just what the hippo roller does ing countries, access to water requires long still virtually unknown to the world. But as a labor-saving device, it is what it gives At its core, the hippo roller is a sim- hours and hard work: hours of walking, the recent focus on gender equality and the woman as a time-saving device. The ple tool that will transform the role waiting in line, and heavy lifting. The time empowerment is bringing the world’s at- hippo roller, with its large drum capacity, of women in developing countries. spent on this basic chore keeps many girls tention to this disruptive technology. frees women and girls from this time-con- Help Us Roll 1000 Hippos Fundrais- out of school and pre- vents women from suming chore. Fewer trips to collect water ing for hippo rollers is a top priority of spending their time on more generative ac- When people see a hippo roller for first time, means they can spend their time on other the Rotary Club in Gibsons, BC. Along tivities. According to the UN, more than a the most common response is, “Why hasn’t more productive personal, educa- tional with other clubs in British Columbia, billion people worldwide do not enjoy wa- this been thought of before? It’s so simple! and economic activities. This simple evolu- they recently donated 250 hippo roll- ter on tap in or near their homes. Collecting It’s just a smarter way to move water.” tion of the wheel- barrow has far-reaching ers to rural communities in South Af- household water is a time-consuming, dai- The hippo roller’s innovative design implications to the global workforce. Hav- rica and Namibia. They are now reach- ly necessity. Unfortunately, it is the women transports water more easily and efficient- ing more time available opens the door for ing out to other clubs and or- gani- and girls who are tasked with this chore. ly by placing the water inside its “wheel.” more women to par- ticipate in government zations across Canada to help bring A full hippo roller holds 200 lbs (90 kg) of and help shape the decision-making pro- this simple tool to women in need. Most women transport their water in water – five times the amount possible cess. Research has shown that for peace “Canada could be the spark that ignites a dirty, repurposed 20-liter buckets car- using traditional methods. But because and prosperity to be a reali- ty, women global transformation,” says Bill Longman, ried on their heads. The weight of that the weight is borne on the ground, it has must have a place at the table of governance a member of the club. “With the Prime bucket of water is over 40 pounds. (Try an effective weight of just 22 pounds (10 in their community and their nation. Minis- ter’s advocacy for gender equality, put- ting a 40-pound bag of flour on kg) allowing even children to easily man- Canadians could provide leadership by your head!) Over time these heavy loads age a full roller over most types of ter- While the hippo water roller is not a per- championing this flip in consciousness.” place an enormous strain on their bodies. rain. Far less effort is required to roll the manent water solution, it does offer an The time spent on this simple task water along the ground than on the head! immediate and supportive response to You can donate to the ‘Help Us Roll 1000 can take from 3-6 hours a day and in- the issues surrounding water access, hy- Hippos’ fundraiser at: www.rollahippo.org volves walking to the water source, A single hippo carries enough water to giene, food secu- rity and most impor- For more information on the Hip- po which can often be a 3-5 km walk away. meet the basic needs of seven people per tantly, gender equality and empowerment. Roller Project email: luke@rollahippo. day and gives them access to better hy- Ask any woman who uses a hippo org A smarter way to move water Now there giene and living conditions. In addition, roller whether she wants to go back Tel: 778.872.4402 APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 11

SHRIMP, ASPARAGUS INGREDIENTS INSTRUCTIONS

AND AVOCADO SALAD • 1 pound raw (approx 20 spears) Bring both a medium pot of water and a medium sauté pan of water and to a boil. Add the shrimp shrimp, peeled and • 1 avocado, sliced to the pot and the asparagus to the sauté pan and cook for 2-3 minutes. Use a skimmer or tongs deveined • 3 green onions, to transfer the shrimp and asparagus to an ice • 4 cups baby sliced water bath. Drain and then slice the asparagus into 1 1/2 inch pieces. spinach • salt and pepper, to Add the shrimp, sliced asparagus, baby spinach, • 1/4 fresh parsley, taste avocado and green onion to a salad bowl. Add chopped • 1/2 recipe lemon the dressing, season with salt and pepper and toss it all together. • 1 bunch asparagus vinaigrette

INGREDIENTS INSTRUCTIONS EASTER EGG In a large bowl, mix sugar, yeast, cardamom, salt and 2 cups our. In a small • 1/2 cup sugar • 6 tablespoons saucepan, heat milk and butter to 120°-130°. Add to dry ingredients; beat on BREAD • 2 packages (1/4 butter, cubed medium speed 2 minutes. Add 3 eggs; beat on high 2 minutes. Stir in enough remaining our to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky). ounce each) active • 4 large eggs Turn dough onto a oured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 • 3 to 6 hard-boiled minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover with plastic dry yeast wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45 minutes. • 1 to 2 teaspoons large eggs, Meanwhile, dye hard-boiled eggs with food coloring following package directions. Let stand until completely dry. ground cardamom unpeeled Punch down dough. Turn onto a lightly oured surface; divide into thirds. Roll each • 1 teaspoon salt • Assorted food portion into a 24-in. rope. Place ropes on a greased baking sheet and braid. Bring ends together to form a ring. Pinch ends to seal. Lightly coat dyed eggs with oil; • 6 to 6-1/2 cups coloring arrange on braid, tucking them carefully between ropes. • Canola oil Cover with a kitchen towel; let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 20 minutes. all-purpose our Preheat oven to 375°. • 1-1/2 cups whole • 2 tablespoons In a bowl, whisk remaining egg and water; gently brush over dough, avoiding eggs. Bake 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool. milk water Refrigerate leftovers.

EASTER BUNNY RACERS INGREDIENTS INSTRUCTIONS Unwrap Swiss cake rolls and put on at surface to work on. • 24 swiss rolls Place contents of frosting container in quart-sized ziploc bag; press all • 1 (16 ounce) container vanilla air out, seal and snip corner o end. frosting or 1 (16 ounce) contain- Cut a shallow V shape in bottom of Peeps so they sit at on cake rolls. er chocolate frosting Add small amount of frosting to bottom of Peeps and stick on almost to • 24 marshmallow peeps (Rabbit the back of cake rolls. Take halved peach gummy slices and add small dabs of frosting to cut peeps) end and stick down behind Peep as the "back of the seat". • 1 (4 1/2 ounce) packagepeach Next, add small dab of frosting to Lifesavers and stick down in front of ring gummy candies (cut in half) Peep on a slight angle for steering wheel. • 24 Lifesavers candies Take 2 matching M&M's and adhere to front of cake roll as the • 48 M&M's plain chocolate headlights. candy Take 4 matching Spree candies (or equivalent) and use frosting to adhere them two to each long side of cake roll as the tires. • 96 spree candies Repeat with all cake rolls.

INGREDIENTS INSTRUCTIONS MINI CARROT Preheat your oven to 350º F and prepare a 6 well mini loaf CAKE LOAVES • 1/2 c pecans, chopped FOR CAKE: pan with cooking spray. • 1 c grated carrot FOR ICING: In a large mixing bowl add the carrots and oil and stir to coat. In a separate mixing bowl whisk together the sugar, our, • 3/4 c oil • 5 oz cream cheese salt, baking soda and cinnamon. • 2 eggs, large • 4 oz butter Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the carrots. Divide the batter evenly between the pan wells and bake for • 1 c sugar • 1 1/2 c powdered sugar 18-20 mins. Let the cakes cool in the pan and then cool completely on a • 1 c our • 2 tsp milk wire rack. • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp vanilla Ice the cakes with the frosting and sprinkle with pecans and serve. • 1 tsp baking soda Store in an air tight container and eat within 3 days. • 1 tsp cinnamon APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 12 CROSSWORD PUZZLE Across Down 1. Skim over 1. Tiny 5. Office message 2. Narrow boat 9. ____ diver 3. Locales 14. Stable female 4. Salamanders 15. Guinness of “Star 5. Atlas page Wars” 6. Building extensions 16. Pitches 7. Cat sound 17. Over again 8. Eight musicians 18. Conspiracy 9. Actor’s goal 19. Heart artery 10. Dove’s comment 20. Reluctant 11. Not kin 22. Take an oath 12. Bookie’s concerns 24. Sixth sense (abbr.) 13. Urgent abbr. 25. Inferior 21. Shipboard spot 27. ____ wave 23. Purpose 29. Luxurious 26. Feels remorse 32. Group spirit 28. Stadium 35. Boundary 30. RR stops 40. Iron or lead 31. Singer ____ Reddy 41. Mine finds 33. Lingerie edging 42. Mixed greens 34. BPOE members 44. Bottle part 35. Cooking vessels 45. Baron, e.g. 36. Famous canal 47. Love songs 37. Hunting dog 49. Tranquil 38. The British ____ 51. Fictional clownfish 39. Lightly cooked 52. Small landmass 43. Floor model 54. Shaquille and Tatum 46. Signs up 59. Deli loaf 48. Zero 61. Sardonic wit 50. Always, poetically 64. Actress ____ Barkin 53. Lugged 65. Roof overhangs 55. Church leader 67. Stadium part 56. Breathing 69. Aria singer 57. Embankment 70. Icy precipitation 58. Growl 71. ____ Fitzgerald 59. Intermission 72. For all time 60. Harvard’s rival EASTER TRIVIA 73. Shore birds 62. African river 1)What is the name of the Charlie Brown 6) When was the Cadbury candy company 74. Actor Johnny ____ 63. Dog’s cry Easter Special? started? 75. Stagger 66. Yet, poetically 68. Sharp knock 2) Easter Island belongs to which South 7) What is the term used for the practice of American country? Easter egg painting?

3) The “Easter parade,” an American cultural 8) When is Easter celebrated? event consisting of a festive strolling proces- sion on Easter Sunday, is characterized by 9) What is an Australian alternative to the what item of clothing won by women? Easter Bunny?

4) Which country has the tradition of eating 10) The Easter Bunny originated in what hot cross buns at Easter? country?

5) How much did the world’s most expensive

egg sell for and who made it?

and sold tea, coffee, and drinking chocolate. drinking and coffee, tea, sold and

10) Germany 10) first) was established in Birmingham, England in 1824 by John Cadbury Cadbury John by 1824 in England Birmingham, in established was first)

throughout Australia as an alternative to Easter bunnies. Easter to alternative an as Australia throughout 6) This second-largest confectionery brand in the world (Wrigley’s is is (Wrigley’s world the in brand confectionery second-largest This 6)

chocolates and related merchandise are sold within many stores stores many within sold are merchandise related and chocolates 5) 9.5 million U.S. dollars U.S. million 9.5 5)

money and increase awareness of conservation efforts, bilby-shaped bilby-shaped efforts, conservation of awareness increase and money 4) Great Britain Great 4)

9) Bilbies: are native Australian marsupials that are endangered. To raise raise To endangered. are that marsupials Australian native are Bilbies: 9) 3) Hats 3)

8) 1st sunday after 1st full moon after spring equinox spring after moon full 1st after sunday 1st 8) 2) Chile 2)

7) Pysanka 7) 1) “It’s the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown” Charlie Beagle, Easter the “It’s 1) APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 13 PUD

WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU

ALLERGIES FROGS RAIN APRIL GOLF RENEWAL BASEBALL GRASS ROBINS BEES GREEN SEASON CROCUSES GROWTH SNOWMELT CYCLAMENS IRISES SOFTBALL DAFFODILS LILIES SPRING BREAK DANDELIONS MARCH SPRING CLEANING EASTER MAY TULIPS EQUINOX NEW LEAVES WARMER FLOWERS PLANTING WET APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 12 PG 14

STARS FALL SHORT OF SEASON GOALS – A 2018-19 RECAP

By London Review Staff wins and losses through to mid-November. en series. In a 5-2 Game 4 win at home, Following a 4-2 road win over Sarnia on Jordan Hurtubise, Lucas Mastroianni, For the second straight season, the St. Nov. 15, the Stars held a respectable record Nicolas Grandy, Jake Robinson and Sean Thomas Stars Junior B hockey team lost of 10-8-1-1. Jake Robinson, Brayden Smith, McGurn scored goals for St. Thomas, in the playoffs to one of their closest ri- Sean McGurn and Cal Horvat scored the while Jesse Hodgson recorded the win in vals, the London Nationals. Unfortunately, St. Thomas goals in that win over Sar- net, stopping 51 of 53 shots on the night. unlike last year, this time that loss didn’t nia, with Robinson and Horvat each fin- come in the Greater Ontario Junior Hock- ishing with three points on the night. But a comeback wasn’t in the cards, and ey League’s (GOJHL) Western Conference London went on to win Game 5, 6-2 Final. Instead, the Stars were bounced But things took a turn for the worse for on home ice, to take the best-of-sev- in the first round of the postseason, los- the team shortly thereafter. Two straight en series and advance on to the next ing four games to one in a best-of-seven home losses to London started a signifi- round, thus ending the Stars’ season. opening round matchup against the Na- cant downward spiral for the Stars, who tionals, thus ending their season early. went 1-13-2-1 over a two-month stretch The St. Thomas offensive attack was a fairly from Nov. 18 to Jan. 18. The losing spell well-balanced one in 2018-19. Liam Fedak If the Stars didn’t know that the 2018-19 put the Stars near the bottom of the GO- led the team in scoring during the regular season was going to be a grind, they found JHL’s Western Conference and, despite season, notching 39 points (12 goals, 27 as- out right away – in their first game of the going 6-4-0-1 over their final 11 games, sists) in 46 games. But Sean McGurn was a year in mid-September. Playing at home the team finished in seventh place in the close second with 38 points of his own (13 in front of 520 fans at the newly-named nine-team conference, down two spots goals, 25 assists). Jake Robinson, who led the Joe Thornton Arena, the Stars battled from a year ago. Their regular season re- team with 14 goals, finished with 35 points. Starting goaltender, Anthony Hurtubise, the Leamington Flyers to a 3-3 draw in a cord of 17-24-3-4 gave them 41 points went 12-16-2-2 in 32 regular season hardly-fought double overtime contest. overall (two ahead of eighth-place Strath- Meanwhile, eight other players recorded games, posting a 3.37 goals-against-av- roy and four behind sixth-place Komoka). 20 points or more during the season, in- erage and a .906 save percentage. In that game opening game, Jake Burton cluding Mastroianni, Lucas (7 goals, 19 scored the first goal of the Stars’ season, Still, the Stars showed some encouraging assists for 26 points), Cal Horvat (8 goals, In late December, four Stars players were a powerplay marker in the first period. signs late in the year, including winning 17 assists for 25 points), Eric Langridge (6 recognized by the league and participat- Knotted at two entering the third, Jackson back-to-back games against first-place goals, 18 assists for 24 points) and Mathew ed in the GOJHL’s 2018 Top Prospects Brown gave St. Thomas the lead and then Leamington (6-3) and second-place Lon- Shuckett (6 goals, 18 assists for 24 points), Games. Darren Beattie and Sean McGurn Eric Langridge made it 3-1 with just under don (2-1) in late February. Russell Oldham as well as Jackson Brown (6 goals, 17 assists took part in the Futures game, while Jake six minutes to play. But the Flyers came and Sean McGurn each scored a pair of goals for 23 points), Brayden Smith (9 goals, 13 Rendall and Liam Fedak competed in back, notching two goals of their own to in that Leamington win, while Darren Beat- assists for 22 points), Russell Oldham (12 the Prospects game in Waterloo, ON. tie the score and send things to overtime. tie and Liam Fedak had three-point games. goals, 8 assists for 20 points) and Nicolas Neither team managed to score in the extra Grandy (11 goals, 9 assists for 20 points). frames, and both teams settled for a sea- As the No. 2 seed entering the playoffs, son-opening draw. Anthony Hurtubise, the the Stars squared off against No. 2 Lon- Stars’ goaltender, played all 70 minutes in don, and St. Thomas unfortunately found the contest, stopping 33 of 36 shots overall. themselves overmatched in the series. Al- ternating between road and home games, And so the season began for the Stars. Over the Stars dropped the first three contests, the next two months, the team played .500 5-2, 6-2 and 4-1, respectively, before notch- hockey, seemingly alternating between ing a win of their own in the best-of-sev-

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: East Elgin Community Complex 531 Talbot Street West, Aylmer P: 519.773.5631 • E: [email protected] • W: eecc.ca

This event is sponsored by: Happy Easter from Elgin Life!

Presented by

Elgin County Railway Museum St. Thomas Day Session: $25 www.beerlesque.ca Night Session: $25 @beerlesqueshow All Day Pass: $40