SportsXpress Chatham/Kent July/Aug 2017 by SportsXpress

YOUR COMMUNITY SPORTS CONNECTION

Chatham-Kent & Area Edition

July/August 2017 Volume 4 Issue 4

Canadian Cowgirls Invited to Calgary Stampede ling A Look at YBC Bow @CKSportsXpress

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Check out some more of the great things happening in CK! For more great stories and photos, check out our website and follow us on Facebook!

Dresden Lawn Bowling Club’s newest members. Check out your local bowling club today, new members always welcome!

Chatham Staples raised over $2000 in their Give a Toonie, Share a Dream Campaign this spring.

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Don Bruner of Chatham Sports Hall of Fame introduces the project Breaking the Colour Barrier: Wilfred ‘Boomer’ Harding and the Chatham Coloured All Stars”, check out the website for this great historical archive!

Chloe Duffy is ready to represent CK and Ontario this summer at the North American Junior & Young Riders Championships at Rebecca Farm in Kalispell, Montana July 19th-23rd, 2017.

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Kaiden, Curtis and Jun after a game in the Chatham Ball Hockey League.

Goalie Kaleb Groombridge ready to make a save. Check out the Chatham Ball Hockey League on Facebook to find out how to get your child involved!

www.chathamkent.sportsxpress.ca

fromthesidelines

Chatham-Kent

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Lakers Writing New Chapter JULY/AUGUST 2017

Submitted by the Wallaceburg Lakers The Laker Organization is once again a community organization, owned by local constituents who are passionate about local hockey. Making the team locally focused is important to the Lakers organization and part of their plan to once again make the Lakers a successful organization. This season, everyone on the coaching staff and executive is local and are excited about moving forward as Wallaceburg’s hockey team. Both the coaches and executive are moving forward with a positive attitude that will trickle down to the players as they train and play together. The community has already rallied behind the Lakers with fundraisers and the organization is continuing to look for local support. For those wanting to be more involved in organization, the Lakers will be looking for billets later this year. GM Ritch Kanally and

Assistant GM Darryl Lucio are excited about building a winning team that the people of Wallaceburg will be proud of. The plan is already in motion and started with the hiring of Coach Rick VanCoillie, Assistant coaches, Ed Burm and Luke Blackbird as well as Goalie Coach, Justin Allaer. The Lakers Summer Camp is going to be held on Walpole Island and skates will be held at the Sarnia Progressive Arena every Wednesday Night 8 PM to 9 PM starting June 28th. For more info and to register contact Assistant Gm. Darryl Lucio at: MY5L@hotmail.com or call (519) 365-4615 Positive changes are being made to make the Lakers a healthy team that communicates with their players and their fans. Your new Lakers Organization would like to thank their fans for their continued support and is looking forward to a new season and a new chapter.

Chatham-Kent & Area Edition

thelineup sportsfiles

09 | Tuukka Love 11 | Shaun Suisham 14 | CK Special Populations 15 | A Look at YBC Bowling

sportshistory

04 | CKPL Book of the Month 18 | Chatham Skating Club

behindthebench

08 | RPM Coach of the Month Chris Sherman 13 | Let’s Get Fit 17 | Chatham Gymnastics Offering Exciting New Programs

fromthesidelines

03 | Lakers Writing a New Chapter 06 | Rick Nicholls 07 | Dresden Sports Hall of Fame 22 | Krista DuChene: It is Well with Her Soul

businessprofile 19 | Tom and Al’s 21 | Dresden Businesses

teamprofiles

10 | Blazin BBQ Profile – Canadian Cowgirls to Perform at Calgary Stampede 13 | Wallaceburg Airhawks Pave the Way 20 | Get the Edge Powerskating Academy

health&fitness

12 | Steve Bottrill 16 | Something for Everyone at the ALC 23 | FireFest is Going to be a Hot Weekend

sports@school

05 | CCS Tries Irish Dancing

asktheexpert Rick VanCoillie and Asst Coach Ed Burm with players Dale McMaster and Ty Lucio

07 | A Heavy Head

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

sportshistory

Chatham-Kent

Your Community

CKPL Book of the Month Submitted by Kate McCullough

Drama in the Bahamas: Muhammad Ali’s Last Fight by Dave Hannigan

JULY/AUGUST 2017

www.ckpl.ca

CKPL Adult & Teen Summer Reading Bingo Play July 4 to September 1, 2017 for your chance to WIN a Samsung Galaxy Tab 7" E Lite Tablet! See you this summer at Chatham-Kent Public Library. For more information, visit your local branch or online at www.ckpl.ca

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

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Take your ring-side seat and re-live Muhammad Ali’s last fight. Be there for all the inside scoop on the former heavyweight champ’s attempt at a second comeback from retirement. The lead-up, the fight and the aftermath revealed in this tellall book. Available at a Chatham-Kent Public Library branch near you or through our website, www.ckpl.ca.

Comber 8705 County Rd. 46 N0P 1J0 519-687-6662 or 1-877-603-6441

Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cksportsxpress Read Us Online PUBLISHER Rebecca Reimer 519.436.4990 rebecca@cksportsxpress.com EDITOR Lauren Perry GRAPHIC DESIGN Debbie Dunmall ddunmall@gmail.com CONTRIBUTORS Bill Mifflin, Brian Horrobin, Sharon Smith, Chatham Gymnastics, Dr. Brian Sides, Nicole Sherman, Lori Corriveau, Brent Denure, Wallaceburg Lakers, Rick Nicholls, Cindy McFadden, Shastine Remahl, Kate McCullough, Gary Patterson, Janine Day, Cheryl Sterling, Rhonda Jubenville-Stallaert, Kelly Meredith, SportsXpress Team and other sports enthusiasts PHOTOGRAPHERS Cover photo courtesy of PennLive.com, Rick Maynard, Brian Horrobin, Sharon Smith, Devin Cornell, Snap Shot Photography, Lori Corriveau, Cindy McFadden, Kirk Groombridge, Wyatt Williams, Shaun Suisham, Nadine Sanderson, Rhonda Jubenville-Stallaert, Kelly Meredith, Diane Guenther Photography,SportsXpress Team and members of various local sports organizations and community sports fans AFFILIATES Cambridge Chatham-Kent Guelph & Wellington Kingston KW & Stratford London Mississauga Oshawa/Durham Peterborough Windsor Editorial Contributions: Submissions are welcome from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches and individuals. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. Contributors are responsible for obtaining all approvals for the publication of photos and content prior to submission. All submissions may not be used. We may edit, publish, reproduce, distribute and archive submissions in any form or medium without any compensation. We are not responsible for lost or damaged submissions. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction or transmission of any article, photograph or artwork in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher is prohibited. SportsXpress is published six times per year. For detailed circulation information, contact Sports Express Media Inc. Sports Express Media Inc. is committed to protecting your privacy as our customer. We may collect personal information only if it is required for the proper functioning of our business and only share this information with our business partners. The editors and contributors who write for Sports Express Media Inc. attempt to provide accurate and useful information and commentary. However, the editors, contributors and Sports Express Media Inc. cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of the information. We assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any readers based on the information provided.

sports@school

CCS Tries Irish Dancing Submitted by Sharon Smith, Photo submitted by Sharon Smith and Devin Cornell Chatham Christian School has been blessed with numerous volunteers over the years. Actually, the school itself started 60 years ago all with volunteers; parents and supporters who wanted to send their children to a school that emphasized God’s love. Today, the school thrives largely due to the many volunteers that give of their time and energy and expertise including coaches, bazaar organizers, classroom helpers, building projects, the board, fundraisers, special events and many, many more. One person that has a unique skill is Devin Cornell: an Irish Dance guru. Devin has been dancing since he was seven and recently spent a number of hours with the Grade six class teaching them the basics of Irish Dance and choreographing a dance to the music of “This Land is Our Land”. This class practiced the dance and were excited to perform it at the school’s Celebration of Learning evening

in May. In a short time, Devin was able to teach these students a few Irish dance moves, to work together as a team while performing individual tasks, and getting quite a physical work out at the same time. Devin also came in a few times to teach the Senior Kindergarten class how to have fun with Irish Dance. He had those young kids kicking up their heels and loving it. Thanks to volunteers like Devin, the students at Chatham Christian School are able to experience fun new ways to stay physically active. While the dancing at CCS was for fun, Devin’s Cornell School of Irish Dance sent three dancers, Emma Howitt, Andrea Dick, and Graham Vandernaalt to the World Championships of Irish Dance in Dublin, Ireland this April. These dancers take Irish Dancing very seriously. Emma is 17 and has been with Cornell since she was five years old. She

trains 20 hours a week, with three hour practices four or five times a week. 13 year old Andrea loves the opportunities that Irish Dancing has given her to travel. She placed 76 out of 200 contestants this spring. She practices four nights a week at the school and then at home any evening she is not in classes. Graham is 10 and is in classes at the school four days a week. His hard work paid off when he placed 13th on the World stage this year. “I got nervous before I was on stage, but when I got on stage I got excited and just danced my best.” Preforming is his favourite part of Irish Dancing. Irish Dance is an intense sport and art and it is celebrated world wide, Devin encourages anyone interested to give it a try. The school is offering summer camps and registration is open for the fall. The school will be performing at the Capital Theatre later this year. For more info, check out www.irishdance.ca.

Chatham Christian School www.chathamchristian.ca 519-352-4980

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Rick Nicholls New Critic for Tourism, Culture, and Sport Submitted by Rick Nicholls

As the newly appointed Critic for Tourism, Culture and Sport, it is my goal to ensure that our community has a vibrant, safe and inclusive sport programs for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Throughout the world, sports play a huge role in uniting people and nations as seen in the Olympics and Special Olympics. Sport can fulfill our recreational, mental and social needs; builds character and also teaches valuable life lessons. Traits such as discipline, teamwork, strategy, the value of time and persistence can all be taught and learned through sport. Ontario has a rich history of excellence in sports. Chatham-Kent has produced some famous athletes – such as Fergie Jenkins, Wilfred (Boomer) Harding, Dave

Gagner and Shae Lynn Bourne just to name a few. Sports have played an important role in my life. From an early age, I played baseball, softball, basketball and hockey. Later in college, I went on to play volleyball and hockey and it was around that time that I became interested in officiating. My ability to be impartial as Deputy Speaker of the Ontario Legislature can be attributed to my officiating days on the hardwood courts and on the diamonds where I was

recognized by Softball Canada for my ability to “make the tough calls.” In the coming months I look forward to building relationships, touring and meeting with different sport, culture and tourism groups throughout ChathamKent-Essex and Ontario to see how I can be of further service in my new role. Most Sincerely,

Rick Nicholls, MPP / Chatham-Kent-Essex

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asktheexpert

A Heavy Head

Submitted by Dr. Brian Sides, D.C.

people has everything to do with smart-phones, tablets, I feel compelled to discuss a problem that I gaming systems, and other handheld devices. As we spend consider totally preventable, yet, that I am seeing more often and in younger populations. more and more time with our head forward and looking down, we set ourselves up for future problems. Fixing this problem The condition or symptom relates to neck and begins with mere awareness and attention to our own (and our shoulder pain and headaches, but the real problem or source kids’) posture. has to do with posture and position of the head. Another helpful tip is to hold these devices up, raise them The human head filled with circulating blood weighs about higher by using a lap pillow or sit them up on a counter or the same as a full-sized bowling ball. In saying this, yes, I table during use to avoid forward head bending. Beyond this, realize I sound like the kid from Jerry Maguire; but it is a very chiropractic adjustments, massage, and simple head and neck real thing. When head posture is where it is designed to be – exercises do the trick. with the ears directly above the shoulders, hips, and ankles They may not appreciate it now, but educate your kids about there is very little problem. However, as is so common, when head and neck posture to avoid future problems. the head starts to shift forward, this creates unnecessary tension on the neck, shoulder, and upper back muscles that causes pain in these areas as well as tension headaches and spinal misalignments. Think of this as if you were holding a bowling ball with arms outstretched away from your body. It gets heavy and pulls on the muscles. 226-996-1712 This forward carriage of the head has always been 467 St. Clair Street, Chatham common as posture is compromised by sitting in front www.ckperformancehealth.com of a computer, driving a car, or reading. I believe the reason I am seeing this more often and in younger Chiropractic • Acupuncture • Massage Therapy • Movement Therapy

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behindthebench

RPM Coach of the Month Chris Sherman Submitted by Nicole Sherman, Photo credit Snap Shot Photography

It is not always easy being married to a hockey coach. Contrary to what some might believe, there is just as much that goes on off the ice as there is on the ice. From September to March, my husband, Chris, and many other coaches alike, live and breathe the sport. When they are not on the ice or at work, they are busy designing practices, preparing player rosters, calling and emailing parents as well as hashing out what they could have done differently at the last game or practice. When not at the rink, Chris and our two boys can be found in our basement playing mini-sticks, out in our shed shooting pucks, or watching TSN highlights on T.V. A lot of talk in our home pertains to “what makes a

great hockey player” and if you ask our kids, they will tell you a lot of it has to do with what you do off the ice. Eating right, exercising, getting your school work done, being responsible, and of course, listening and obeying mom and dad! I think it is important to recognize that although coaches are volunteers, they are so much more than that. They coach so much more than a sport. Most of the coaches I know, my husband in particular, are not only passionate about developing good hockey players, but they also are about developing good kids, and good people. He wants to help each and every one of them reach their full potential. He is a coach with purpose!

281 Richmond St Chatham 519.380.9111 rpmhky@mail.com

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sportsfiles

Tuukka Love When Jeff and Anita Betterley’s son, Ronny, was diagnosed with DIPG, they were not exactly sure how they were going to battle this rare disease but they knew they were going to do it as a family. Ronny has one brother Joe (16) and two sisters Emelly (14) and Danielle (10). The Betterley’s did not realize that their family was going to grow…a lot! When Ronny Betterley’s South-Kent Lightning “hockey family” learned about Ronnie’s condition, they jumped into action. “We never asked anyone for anything nor did we expect anything,” said Jeff, fighting back tears, “but the response and the generosity of everyone has just been overwhelming.” Ronny Betterley’s bucket list is being realized with the help of the community. “Ronny’s favourite hockey team is the Boston Bruins and he got to see them thanks to the generous people of the community, one business paid for our airfare, one business paid for our accommodations, and it was a dream come true for Ronny.” The Betterley’s sat right behind one

Written by Gary Patterson, Photo credit Betterley Family

of Ronny’s favourite players, Tuukka Rask, and after the game, they got to meet Rask and another favourite, Brad Marchand. Ronny was nicknamed Tuukka by his uncles because he loved to say the Bruins’ backstop’s name. Not only did Ronny have a blast in Boston but he also had a thrill when Children’s Wish sent him to Disney for a week. Jeff explained, “Ronny just had a blast and has enjoyed every second of Boston and Disney. He was just thrilled and we are so grateful he gets to experience it.” Closer to home Ronny got to watch his favourite OHL team, the Windsor Spitfires, win the Memorial Cup and meet some of his favourite Spits, Ronny got to drop the green flag at South Buxton Raceway and got to ride with driver, Dale Glassford, as well as Austin and Carter Pickering. “The hockey community has been so amazing” said Betterley, “How can you properly thank them? They just started showing up, bringing food and doing things without even being asked. They have put out sponsor jars at businesses and just made things happen for our son.” Betterley also said that his former teammates at the University of Windsor have stepped up with helping to make Ronnie’s bucket list into a reality.

With Ronny being such a hockey nut, some family friends who work at Scotiabank and some former teammates and friends from the Windsor Lancers sent him to Toronto to watch game four between the Leafs and Capitals. This summer the list includes a train ride to Toronto to see the Jays play, a trip to Detroit to watch the Tigers, and a trip to Great Wolf Lodge. Throughout his battle with DIPG and all the bucket list items his parents, family and friends are all praying for a miracle and Ronnie is still just trying to be the best regular seven-year-old he can be with a focus on making the South-Kent Novice hockey team. “As a family we all get a little stressed about the situation but he just keeps going,” marvelled his father. “We have been so blessed by the show of love from everyone from our church, the communities of Ridgetown and Blenheim, and of course our amazing friends from South-Kent Minor Hockey,” thanked Jeff. The one thing that is for sure the out pouring of love has been very special to the Betterley family and to Ronnie, it is a love that can only be seen in a special community where teammates are family…I guess we could call it TUUKKA LOVE because it is true and unconditional.

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Blazin BBQ Profile – Canadian Cowgirls to Perform at Calgary Stampede Interview by SportsXpress, Photo credit TJ Stables

Flags flying proudly in the wind, and the heavy sound of thundering hooves, the proud and patriotic Canadian Cowgirls burst into the arena with a presence that brings the entire audience to their feet. With stunning costumes, precision riding and daring manoeuvres, the Cowgirls remind spectators what it means to be Canadian. The Canadian Cowgirls make 129 appearances annually. They travel all

over North America and have performed for the Canadian Armed Forces, HRH Charles Prince of Wales, Camilla Duchess of Cornwall, Don Cherry, Rick Mercer, and many more. Canadian to the core, each show features a tribute to the Canadian Armed Forces. This is important to founder, Terry Jenkins. “We are incredibly proud of our country and it’s peace keeping work. When we visit an army base, we see that it’s not just the service men and women that makes sacrifices, it’s their families, so our tribute is to them as well.” Many of the Canadian Cowgirls are home grown. “We have several little girls that grow up watching over the fence. As they grow up, they take riding lessons, then join our Junior program and drill camps. They start to tour with us as a ground crew, and once they are ready,

they join our team. We have a value system in our team and a code of conduct so we can represent Canada to the best of our ability. So the local girls are great role models, because they were once the little girl watching on the other side of the fence.” The Canadian Cowgirls are largely supported by community funding. Together with Blazin BBQ, friends, family, and many other local businesses, they were able to raise $70,000 to finance their trip to Calgary for Canada’s 150th anniversary celebration at the Calgary Stampede. Thankful for all the support they receive, the Cowgirls donate their horses and many hours to the Acceptional Riders Therapeutic Riding Program at TJ Stables. During their time in Alberta, the Cowgirls will participate in the Banff Canada Day Parade, Cochrane Parade, and the Stampede Parade. After this, they will be doing 10 days of shows at the Stampede. For the young girl wishing she could be a Canadian Cowgirl one day, Terry says, “Don’t just make it a dream, make it a goal. Work hard, and you could represent Canada one day!”

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Shaun Suisham – Wallaceburg Will Always be Home Submitted by SportsXpress, Photo credit Shaun Suisham Wallaceburg native, Shaun Suisham, never aspired to play football professionally in his childhood, he simply prided himself on working hard and doing his best in every opportunity that came his way. The son of Rick and Wendy Suisham and brother to Kim and Meagan, Shaun played hockey, soccer, and football growing up. He credits his parents with instilling in him the importance of treating people with respect and working hard. These values provided a helpful foundation to pull from during his career in the NFL. When he joined the WDSS football team due to the encouragement of his uncle Rob MacLachlan, he did not realize the opportunities that would open up for him. His mindset was not on playing professionally, in fact, he did not even watch football on tv. After playing football all throughout high school, Shaun was awarded a scholarship to Bowling Green State University in 2000. Even then, he never dreamed of playing professionally. It was only in his last year of university that he started thinking about the NFL. Suisham’s 11 year career began when he signed as a free agent with The

Pittsburgh Steelers in 2005 followed by stints with the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Redskins before returning to Pittsburgh in 2010 where he experienced the highlight of his career - being chosen as a captain of The Pittsburgh Steelers, “It was an honour, playing at the highest level of sport and being recognized by my teammates as one of their leaders”. As for what he would like to change if he could, he laughs and says, “To not miss any field goals!” Now retired from professional football, Suisham spends his time coaching his daughters’ hockey teams. “I really missed hockey, I had a 16 year hiatus from it, and I’m really enjoying being back” He also runs an adult league hockey team that won the championship this year. “Didn’t you see the news? They held a big parade for us!”, he jokes, referring to the Penguins’ Stanley Cup Parade held just days later. When asked if he attended the parade he states “No, I don’t like big crowds…” Suisham is still involved in the NFL Players Association and also works in Venture Capital in the Pittsburgh region. “But mostly, I’m just trying to be an

awesome dad to Sienna and Stella and husband to my lovely wife Erin.” His advice to youth athletes and their parents is this: “Have the big picture in mind. Work hard, surround yourself with good people, make good decisions. Remember, it’s okay not to make it to the pros. The goal of sport should be to teach our kids how to be great teammates and leaders, not how to be a professional athlete. The opportunity is there for everyone, but the probability is low. Always have a ‘plan b’.” Suisham has always felt local support throughout his college and professional career. When Pittsburgh went to the Super Bowl in 2010, WDSS held a pep rally for him and sent a video his way. Though he lives in Pittsburgh area now and his allegiance to the Leafs has changed to support the Penguins, it is the support of this community that has him saying, “Wallaceburg will always be home!”.

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

519-352-7660 Rick Zavitz, President

Chatham Kent Ready Mix Inc. Dresden Ready Mix Ltd.

health&fitness

Steve Bottrill is Always Pushing the Limits Interview by SportsXpress, Photo credit SportsXpress

519-683-6266 Dan VanMoorsel, Manager

When you were 22, an accident changed your life, tell me about that. I was asleep in the passenger seat of a car. We had been travelling for ten hours in a snowstorm from Ottawa. We had just reached the city limits of Chatham when my car hit a patch of ice and was in an uncontrollable spin. A car coming in the opposite direction hit the same patch of ice and and “T-Boned” my car directly where I was sitting. I was crushed, the car was demolished. Luckily my seat was declined and I was asleep, which likely saved my life. I was, however, in a coma for 10 days. I had massive brain damage and was very lucky to even wake up from this devastating accident. I can remember just wanting to go home from the hospital but everyone said I could not. Only one person, my dad said something different. He said, “When you get stronger.” That was the phrase that changed my life. From that point on, I dedicated myself to excelling in physiotherapy. I wanted to shatter every belief the therapists had about recovery and rehabilitation. I would become the inspiration and achieve the impossible. If they said walk, I would run. If they said try this puzzle, I would say, make it harder. I wanted to become better than I had been before. I would become the smartest, fastest, strongest, and have the most endurance of anyone they had ever seen that had been in a coma. I was not going to let this horrific accident define me. What I did not realize was, through pushing myself physically, I was healing myself mentally. I am proof that exercise can heal. I went from a person that could not move a muscle and was confined to a wheel chair to teaching exercise classes to seniors and those with disabilities.

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

What was recovery like? Recovery was the toughest thing I have ever had to do. It was very frustrating and demeaning. I didn’t know how to walk, or talk, or see, or do anything. At one time I could do everything with ease. It was a very humbling experience. How has this shaped you as a person? My experience has redefined how I think of people with disabilities and anyone for that matter. It has given me a new appreciation for health care workers and for people struggling with a disability and for the struggles seniors experience. I have made it my life mission to improve the quality of life for those people with a disability or challenge and for seniors in the community. I have learned a lot from my own physiotherapy and the benefits of exercise and try to pass that on. What programs do you run today? Thanks to the VON that has given me the opportunity to offer classes to seniors and people with an extra challenge, disability. Every Monday and Wednesday we offer classes on the second floor of the mall from 8:00-8:30. We offer several classes at the Active Lifestyle Centre for seniors of various abilities. We even offer classes after 4:00 for a post rehab program, or a preventative injury classes. There are even classes offered at 6:30pm if you cannot make it out during the day. The VON offer classes all over ChathamKent for seniors.

Please contact me if you are interested in trying out an exercise class. (519) 355-8144 or (519) 352-4462 ext. 5222

teamprofiles

Wallaceburg Airhawks Pave the Way Submitted by Janine Day, Photo credit Nadine Sanderson The Wallceburg Airhawk U19 women’s basketball team walked away with a bronze medal this past season in Division 1 at the Ontario Basketball Provincial Championships. This is the first medal in the program’s history at the Division 1 level. The team was comprised of players from Dresden, Wallaceburg, and Chatham. This accomplishment places the team as the third best team in the province for their age group and level. The success of this team did not happen overnight. Many of these student athletes have been a part of the Basketball Wallaceburg program since the age of eight. The countless hours put in at house leagues, practices, and games have improved their skill as individuals and as a team. The many volunteer coaches that provide their expertise and time are very important to sustain a successful program. Whether they are parents, teachers, or just love the game, they are a valued part of the Airhawk community. The bronze medal was a major accomplishment not only for this group of 10 players but also the entire Wallaceburg Airhawks program. Wallaceburg has now secured a spot on the map for girls basketball, paving the way for younger players coming up through the program.

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943 Wellington St., Dresden, ON www.letsgetfitdresden.com Facebook.com/letsgetfitdresden Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

sportsfiles

Staples CK Special Populations Profile Submitted by Cindy McFadden and Shastine Remahl, Photo credit Cindy McFadden Why do I like summer camp? My name is Shastine, and I am 31 years old. I have been going to the Chatham-Kent Special Populations summer camps for four years now. I love summer camp! I love going to the Water Camp, Horse Camp, Paddle Boarding Camp, Sailing camp, and five Days of Wonder Camp. I love going to all the camps! One of the things that I enjoy about going to summer camp is that I am able to go and try new things. I love when my staff goes with me to all of the camps. They help me with getting over any fears that I may have. Trying new things at camp can be hard, but I know my staff and Cindy will be there to help me. Cindy is always teasing and joking with everyone and it makes summer camp so much fun! -Shastine Remahl The Special Populations program provides year round programs, special events, and services for youth and adults with disabilities. The programs are designed to keep them active, socializing with others, and improving their sense of well being. Our goal is to build self-esteem and independence in a safe and comfortable setting.

Your Chatham Staples would like to thank all those who supported our Give a Toonie Share a Dream Campaign. Thanks to your generosity we raised over $2,300 to support Special Olympians in May and June!

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN All returning players that register with a minimum $100 deposit are entered into a draw for a rebate on registration

Year House League HL/Travel Travel of Birth Registration Registration Registration UG Learn to Skate 2012-2013 $400.00 n/a n/a U7/U8 Bunny 2010-2011 $400.00 n/a n/a U9 Minor Novice 2009 $450.00 $700.00 n/a U10 Major Novice 2008 $450.00 $700.00 n/a U12 Petite 2006-2007 $450.00 $700.00 n/a U14 Tween 2004-2005 $450.00 $700.00 n/a U16 Junior 2002-2003 $450.00 $700.00 $650.00 U19 Belle 1999-2001 $450.00 $700.00 $500.00 18+ Open 1998 or earlier $275.00 n/a $450.00 Goalies selected to a U12 Travel team and above are 1/2 registration fee for the 2017-2018 season. Division

New to Chatham Ringette? Only pay half registration fees for your first year! Ask about family discounts!

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress â&#x20AC;˘ July-August 2017

sportsfiles

A Look at YBC Bowling

What is your favourite thing about bowling? Senior: Mitchell: Being with friends, working on improving my game each week. Junior:

Kailey: The competition against other teams, players, and trying to be the best. I like the people – they support you no matter what. Courtney: Being with people that enjoy bowling like I do.

Bantam: Aaliyah: When we bowl we work as a team.

What is your favourite bowling memory? Senior: Tori-Beth: Being on coach Tom’s last 4 steps team that went to the provincials. It was Tom’s last year before he passed away and being on that last team meant a lot to me because Tom meant a lot to me. Courtney: Going to provincials. Felt like

Submitted by Bill Mifflin, Photo credit Rick Maynard

an accomplishment for going that far. Junior: Hunter: I made it to 4 steps teams this year and we won the zone round to advance to the provincials. Aiden: As a pewee, I bowled a 204 game and made the wall of fame. Bantam: Aaliyah: My first year of bowling, my first tournament. Something new that I started in and liked.

What is the hardest part of bowling? Senior:

Tori-Beth: Concentration. It has improved my concentration on that and other things. It taught me discipline in bowling and other things. Mitchell: Trying to bowl 300 games and over and always trying for a perfect game.

Junior: Kailey: Trying to make your average or better every game. Bantam: Abby: learning the skills to be a good bowler.

Why should people join the bowling league? Senior: Domonic: It’s a good sport to play and meet new people. There are lots of tournaments.

Junior:

Mitchell: The sport lasts 32 weeks long which is longer than other sports. A fun night out with the family. Kailey: All of the friendly people around you. Lots of help to make you smile when you get down or frustrated. Courtney: It’s fun. You meet a lot of new friends. It is an opportunity to go to different bowling centres for competition.

Bantam: Payton: It’s a fun time and you get to meet new people and see what they can do.

What will you miss when you finish YBC? Senior:

Tori-Beth: I will miss everybody. I want to join the master bowlers and continue being connected with the YBC. I will join an adult league to continue bowling. Courtney: I will miss the help from the coaches. I want to go on and won’t have the coaches. In seniors, I am being prepared for that.

For more info and fall registration details check us out on Facebook! /chathamyouthbowling/

Summer is Here!

Dover Duds New Styles Arriving Daily Your Work Wear Specialist! 519-355-1201

Tues to Fri: 10 - 5:30 • Sat: 10 -2 Sunday & Monday: Closed

26662 Bearline Road, Dover Centre www.doverduds.com Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

health&fitness

Something for Everyone at the ALC Submitted by Cheryl Sterling

The Active Lifestyle Centre (ALC) welcomes all adults over the age of 50 to take part in many classes and activities, centered at strengthening the core values of older adults. The wonderful array of interesting activities to choose from allows their members to grasp and fulfill the authenticity of their knowledge, talents and interests while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. They welcome and value members and their ideas to connect healthy activity and daily living. The ALC prides itself in offering over 60 different activities of all levels for their participants to enjoy. Their physical activities include a variety of dance classes, yoga and tai chi programs and a large range of fitness classes of all levels are offered. There are lots of non-physical activities happening as well – ranging from theatre and arts, music and choir, crafts and card making, games such as bingo and rummolli, playing cards such as bridge and pepper. The wood shop, computer and billiards rooms are also open daily.

This summer is full of great classes and programs designed to keep you healthy and connected to the community. Here’s a sneak peak at a regular day at the ALC. 8:30-4:00 WOODWORKING 8:30-4:00 BILLIARD RM OPEN 9:00-2:00 GREETING CARDS | Card Rm 9:00-12:00 OPEN COMPUTER Check Availability 9:00-4:00 SCRAPBOOKING | Craft Rm 9:00-10:00 SYNC DANCE Rm1 Beginner/Improver 9:00-10:00 BELLYDANCING Dance Rm 10:00-11:00 ADV. BELLYDANCING Dance Rm 10:00-11:00 L.I.F.E. FITNESS | Rm 1 & 2 10:00-12:00 CHOIR | Rm 3 10:15-11:30 EXERCISE-ELEVATION POLE WALKING Room 4, 5 11:00-12:00 BANDING TOGETHER Rm 1 & 2 11:00-12:00 Dance room open *12:00-1:00 STABILITY BALL & HOOP Rm 1 12:00-1:00 Grandmothers to Grandmothers 2nd Monday ea. month (ComputerRm)

*12:00-1:00 Low Impact Cardio Walkfit Dance Room 12:00-4:00 PEPPER Rm 5 1:00-1:50 TAI CHI – BEGINNER-ADVANCED GREAT FOR ANY LEVEL Room 1 1:00-2:00 KENT ROUND DANCERS Dance Room Begins Sept. 19 1:00-3:00 BINGO Rm 3 1:00-4:00 OPEN COMPUTER Check availability 1:00-4:00 BRIDGE Rm 4 1:00-4:00 INTRODUCTION to BRIDGE LESSONS Rm 4 2:00-3:00 CLOGGING Dance Rm 3:00-4:00 CLOGGING/ADVANCED Dance Rm

For a full schedule check out their website at http://activelifestylecentre.org/ and remember to call ahead to 519-352-5633 during summer in case of cancellations.

For those interested in participating in athletic competitions go to www.ckseniorgames.com or contact: Don Hector, Chatham-Kent 55+ Games Coordinator Email: ckseniorgames@gmail.com • Telephone: 226 881-2453

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

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behindthebench

Chatham Gymnastics Offering Exciting New Program Submitted by Chatham Gymnastics The children of Chatham-Kent are doing backflips over the new programs at Chatham Gymnastics. Shay IrelandHeidt, the founder and owner of the Chatham Gymnastics Centre is having the time of her life. She feels so lucky to be surrounded by such an incredible team of coaches and by so many of the children and parents from our community. “I am so proud of all the children that have participated in our program to date as I have watched many of them conquer fears, set goals, and attain those goals. The empowerment and the self confidence that they have found in the gym is an amazing process to watch.” Shay is no stranger to the world of gymnastics. She has worked and coached for over 25 years and trained for 10 years in the gymnastics life. Shay feels at home being in the gym where she started (she often jokes that it feels like she was born on a crash pad) and hopes that she can enable the gymnasts of Chatham-Kent to create their own fond gymnastic memories whether that is from attending programs, having their birthday parties here, attending the upcoming clinics or camps, or even one of their many events. “I do giggle and get great joy out of what I am doing every day. I love watching children grow and find out who they are and what they are made of.” Chatham Gymnastics Centre has put together some dynamite camp programs for Summer. These programs are geared towards children four years and older. The gym has also added clinics and a new Summer camp for exceptional children. Please visit the website for details regarding schedule of activities and pricing. The club has been open since September 2014, the staff all have a minimum of their level one teaching certificate for gymnastics, and most of them have spent a good portion of their childhood either in gymnastics or in the world of sports. For the summer, Chatham Gymnastic Centre will be implementing the Coach in Training certification program

for the teenagers of the community. Even though Shay seems to be having a great time on the gymnastics floor, hard work is being done in the background to ensure that the quality and the growth of new programming is being offered. The happy, giggling children we see attending the Gymnastics Centre in the Superkids program assure us that Shay is not the only one having fun on that bright purple floor. For more information about the Chatham Gymnastics Centre, please visit www.chathamgymnastics.com

Summer Camp Schedule

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Camp Schedule: July 4-7 Oh Canada! July 10-14 Dance Off! July 17-21 Superhero Week July 24-28 Let go Hula July 31-August 4 Mad Science August 8-11 Planes, Trains, and Automobiles August 14-18 Safari August 21-25 Shipwrecked August 28- Sept 1 Go Out With a Bang! Summer Clinics Cartwheel July 10 & Aug 14 Back Handspring July 17 & 31 Circling Skills July 24 & Aug 14 Kip July 24 & Aug 14 Aerial July 14 & Aug 10 Camp for Exceptional Children Camp is run by a certified and experienced special education teacher. Includes a part day of horseback riding. Fun gross motor skills and sensory activities. July 17-21, Aug 21-25 8-5pm

Chatham Gymnastics Centre 20 Currie St, Chatham-Kent 519-354-9722

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www.Chathamgymnastics.com Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

sportshistory

Chatham Skating – Years of Achievements Submitted by Rhonda Jubenville-Stallaert and Kelly Meredith, Photo credit Rhonda Jubenville-Stallaert and Kelly Meredith

History In 1949, the Chatham Figure Skating Club was formed. It was recognized and sanctioned by Skate Canada. The club began a growing interest and membership began a steady increase. Many skaters of great excellence were recognized for several years. To begin, Sandra Tewkesbury qualified for the 1960 Squaw Valley Olympics, finishing 10th. Carol Kaiser took the ice at 18 months old and at age 12, she was the youngest skaters to achieve a gold test medal. She later competed at the Canadian Championships in the Junior level. Another national champion was Joelle Batten who won the Canadian Novice Ladies Championships in 1986 and was a Bronze medalist at the Junior level the next year. She also represented Canada Internationally winning a Silver medal in Italy. Also in 1986, another Chatham skater Jeff Gavin won the Novice Pairs Championships with his partner Stacy Ball. Brett Dunlop won the Silver Medal in Novice Men in 1991 and then went on to a successful Pairs career. John McKay, an honourary member of the Chatham Figure Skating Club, was also a huge supporter of the Chatham Club as well as and skating in Canada as a whole! He proudly served as the Canadian Figure Skating Association (CFSA) President from 1971-1972. A couple of Chatham’s skating coaches reached professional milestones; one as a skater and one as a coach. In 2011, Joelle Batten was inducted into the Chatham Sports Hall of Fame for her successful achievements as a skater in

the Modern Athlete Category. In 2015, Joelle’s mother, was acknowledged by the Western Ontario Skating Section and Skate Canada for her 50 years of service to the industry as a professional skating coach. A club cannot run without volunteers and Chatham has been blessed with many who have put in long hours. Several of our volunteers have been recognized by the Skate Canada – Western Ontario Section and Skate Canada. These volunteers are Jane Saville, Cherie Anakin (Alexander), Tykje Ackert, Marg and Allen Macaulay, Vera and Nels Armstrong, and Cathy Overdulve. Many other remarkable skaters accomplished great achievements. Check out chathamkent.sportsxpress.ca for the full version of this article. Presently The Chatham Skating Club currently has two main programs, the CanSkate program and the StarSkate program. Young beginner skaters are enrolled in our Pre-CanSkate program. CanSkate is Canada’s leading learn-to-skate program, which teaching the fundamental of skating. Whether it be figure skating,

hockey, ringette, speed skating, or just recreational skating; the CanSkate program will teach the needed skills that the skater will require to excel in their specific skating sport. This year we were also able to offer an adult Learn-to-Skate Program that falls within the CanSkate parameters. Once skaters pass the CanSkate program, they graduate into the StarSkate Program. These skaters have an option of group instruction or private instruction. StarSkate is where you will find the true essence of figure skating being taught to the skaters. With the help of our coaches, many great champions have developed through our programs which we are so proud of! Skaters must be three years of age to register in our CanSkate Program. Our StarSkaters (figure skaters) have started as young as six years old, but must complete the CanSkate program first. We have witness successful adult StarSkaters over the years as well. We encourage people to look us up on our website at chathamskatingclub.com, our Facebook (Chatham Skating ClubOfficial Group), or email us at skaters@ chathamskatingclub.com.

Your Happiness is

Our First Priority Dance, Gymnastics, Yoga & Skate 519-355-1999 gohautepink.com Lower Level of the Downtown Chatham Centre

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

businessprofile

Business Profile – Tom and Al’s Quality Home Furnishings and Appliances Written by SportsXpress, Photo credit Diane Guenther Photography Tom & Al’s has been operating in Wallaceburg for over 50 years. Recently renovated, the business is owned by Jack Moore, Shawn Moore, and Brian Shaw. Offering 12,000 square feet of retail space, you are sure to find what you are looking for at Tom & Al’s.

Their impressive furniture collection features styles for every personality, from camo to retro and everything in between. The team at Tom & Al’s knows that customer satisfaction and high quality products are the key to a successful business. With this in mind, Tom & Al’s offers personal customer service, as well as free delivery and set-up. Delivery

guys, Al and Pat, will remove any old appliances and furniture that you are replacing, and take all the wrappings and packing with them when they leave. Their commitment to high quality products and the local economy leads them to feature mainly North American upholstery and furniture. Whether you are looking for a mattress, couch, or kitchen table, the team at Tom & Al’s has been to the factory to see how it is made and can vouch for the quality of the product. At Tom & Al’s Furniture, you will find something for every room in your house. When you walk into their store, you will see accent pieces, paintings, dining sets, electric fireplaces, gifts, lamps, living room sets, bedroom sets, mattresses, mattress protectors, and bedsheets. Their large selection of appliances and televisions will leave nothing wanting. Their impressive furniture collection features styles for every personality, from camo to retro and everything in

For quality products you can depend on as well as a great customer service experience, see the team at Tom & Al’s today! between. All of their furniture is available in custom colours and fabrics to ensure you find exactly what you are looking for! Customer, Tina Fehr, says, “I appreciate their low pressure sales people and high quality products. My husband and I bought our mattresses and dishwasher there and I’m going back for a washer soon!” For quality products you can depend on as well as a great customer service experience, see the team at Tom & Al’s today!

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

teamprofiles

Get the Edge Powerskating Academy Submitted by Lori Corriveau, Photo credit Lori Corriveau Our mission at Get The Edge PowerSkating Academy is to provide the best developmental experience for each skater and to instil a love for hockey and ringette. Our program is designed for hockey and ringette players of all ages and skill levels. Edges, blade awareness, and body positioning are the keys to a basic skating foundation. Hockey and ringette specific skating is then introduced focusing on the following skating skills: Forward and Backward stride development, quick starts, slam stops, forward and backward crossovers, pivot turns, open hip turns, transitional moves, and explosive accelerations.

All skating skills will first be introduced at a slow pace. This will allow the skaters to develop the proper technique. These skills will then be incorporated into circuit drills with many repetitions and hands-on correction. Pucks will then be incorporated. This will ensure proper muscle memory. Each skater’s individual style will vary, yet the basic technique will remain the same. This is a great way to jump start the hockey and or ringette season by improving skating technique and fitness levels. Our head instructor is professional skater, Lori (Gunn) Corriveau, who will be assisted by OHL hockey players as well as many former participants of our academy who are now learning the ropes of being leaders and mentors. We are still accepting registrations for our summer sessions at Thames Campus Arena in Chatham, Ontario. To register you can contact Julie Gagner at julie.gagner@ sccdsb.net. You can also register online by clicking on the link on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ GetTheEdgePowerskatingAcademy.

DRESDEN RACEWAY

Ontario’s Little Saratoga www.dresdenraceway.ca

• Live harness racing every Sunday from July 1 to August 7... Post Time 1:30 PM • HUGE Canada Celebration July 1 with OSS and RUS Races • Great family atmosphere with free draws and giveaways every afternoon • July 9 Derby Day and BIA Day • July 16 Legion Day and Bring a friend Day • July 25 Kids Day • July 30 Memorial Day • August 7 Closing Day Free Hot Buttered Corn on The Cob

• Always free admission and never any charge for parking!

142nd Annual Dresden Exhibition July 28 - 30 20

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

Dresden

Celebrates Canada’s

150

“LETTER-HEAD”

Dresden Community

Events

• July: 1 Dresden Raceway Canada Day • 6 Rotary Concerts Thursday Night 7pm • 8 Hort Society Garden Tour • 14 & 15 Dresden Kinstock • 28-29-30 Dresden Exhibition • August: 7-11 Vacation Bible School North Baptist • 24 Rotary Concerts End • Sept: 17 Terry Fox Run

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

fromthesidelines

Krista DuChene:

It Is Well with Her Soul Submitted by Brian Horrobin, Photo credit Brian Horrobin I may not be able to give you 150 reasons to cheer for this great Canadian athlete, but during this special year of celebration for our great country, Krista DuChene will bring a smile to your face and make you proud to live in the “true north, strong, and free.” When I think of someone who embodies true Canadian spirit, I immediately think of this remarkable lady, whose website describes her as a “Christian, wife, marathon mom, dietician, Olympian.” Her motto: “It is well with my soul.” I first met Krista DuChene at the 2015 Watford-Alvinston Road Race on Victoria Day. She flew through the 16 kilometre course and won easily that day. Later, at the behest of her cousin and local Tough Mudder icon, Joe Perry, she agreed to pose for a group picture with members of Wallaceburg’s Defiance Running Club. Down to earth, approachable, and humble are fitting words to describe this great athlete who represented Canada last summer in Rio in the Olympic Marathon. Her smile is warm and friendly and unless you did your homework on her beforehand, you would never know she was an elite athlete. She greeted each of us average runners as if we were teammates of hers on the Olympic roster. When you think of some of the prominent athletes in our society the impression you may get is that ego runs equal with ability; not with Krista DuChene. Although current owner of the second-fastest marathon of all time for Canadian women, she unapologetically puts faith and family first. You will hear her talk about her devout Christian faith, and her role as wife and mother,

long before she talks about her own accomplishments. It is refreshing, to say the least. Grit? You want grit? In a half-marathon race in 2014, Krista broke her femur with about 500 metres left in the race…and finished! A true Canadian, she was “sorry” for limping to the finish line but definitely endeared herself to every hard-working athlete out there, myself included. If you have ever been tempted to quit anything, then the story of this race, and the way that Krista handled it, is required reading. In a day and age when unfinished projects and giving up litter the landscape, it is refreshing to read of a true Canadian champion whose determination and commitment puts Rocky Balboa to shame! Many of DuChene’s speaking engagements centre around her Christian faith. In my opinion, this is a woman who has her priorities in the right place. Despite carrying a heavy training load, which is required to stay at the elite level, she is at in the international running scene, she makes sure that things are “well with her soul.” It is because her life is centred around her Christian faith

Article brought to you by:

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • July-August 2017

that she is able to juggle time fairly and appropriately with her family and her training schedule. Back in late April, Krista shared at a special women’s event. Her topic was a good one: “Keeping my eyes on Christ through blessing and trials.” She speaks from experience and also from the heart. She has known both triumph and defeat, but through it all, she has kept her focus on her Saviour. Her sponsor, Saucony, once had a theme: share the road with a runner. If you ever get a chance to do that with Krista DuChene then you will have shared the road with someone of true Canadian spirit! Brian Horrobin is the Pastor at First Baptist Church in Wallaceburg and a member of the Defiance Running Club and Team Hoyt.

health&fitness

FE FIRE ST

AT H

FireFest is Going to be a Hot Weekend ,O A M-KE N T

Submitted by SportsXpress and Brent DeNure Canada’s largest show of antique fire apparatus, police cars, and ambulances is returning to Downtown Chatham for another weekend September 22-23. Organizer, Brent DeNure, says “Our volunteer organizing committee has taken great pride in creating a free, family event which offers the neat, visual aspect of the trucks along with inspirational stories and, of course, stressing the importance of emergency safety.” This year the festivities begin with “Friday Night Lights”, a vehicle tour through Tilbury travelling to Boonies Drive-In for a 7:30 pm screening of the original Ghostbusters movie. Families can watch the movie and see a display of antique fire trucks. DeNure is particularly excited about the Ghostbuster theme, “Among our featured attractions this year is arguably

the world’s most recognized emergency For the emergency vehicle enthusiast, response vehicle, Ecto-1 from the original FireFest will feature several emergency (1984) Ghostbusters movie. We are response vehicles that have served at thrilled to have been able to work out some incidents of tremendous historical bringing this rare and very sought after significance including the Detroit Riot of vehicle to Chatham-Kent for FireFest.” 1967, the crash of Northwest Airlines 255, Saturday’s activities begin at 10am with and 9/11. CKFES Fire Response Demonstrations. There will also be a panel reflecting Previous years have featured forced entry, on the Detroit Riot of 1967 and LT. John fire extinguisher training, a narrated auto Thiede will be sharing his experience of extrication, and more. rescuing the sole survivor of the Flight 255 Kids can participate in a Junior F.I.R.E. disaster. Course where they can dress in bunker The event wraps up with a parade of gear and complete a series of firefighter emergency vehicles at 4pm. challenges. FireFest is a huge event for the You can expect to hear music by Fire community, bringing in 15,000-20,000 Sound – a Toronto based firefighter band, people to Downtown Chatham for the see the Detroit Fire Department Clown event, drawing people from as far as Team, Firefighters on stilts and Stan the MidWestern United States, all while the Magical Fireman, a storyteller and raisingNight awareness for fire will safety in an “Friday Lights” tour magician. exciting way!

September 22

ECTO-1 ON DISPLAY

THANK YOU TO OUR

vehicles through Tilbury going to Boonies Drive-In for a 7:30 p.m. screening of the original ‘Ghostbusters’ movie.

SPONSORS & PARTNERS

www.firefest.ca • info@firefest.ca • facebook.com/ckfirefest • @ckfirefest

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