Vol. 2 #17 Grand Bend Strip, March 12, 2009

ADVICE FROM MOM P.11 - KEEPING THE PEACE P.11 - LIVING IN BALANCE P.13 - EYE FOR DESIGN P.13 - JAMES EDDINGTON P. 16

Vol. 2, No. 17 March 12 to April 15, 2009AWARD WINNING JOURNALISM FROM GRAND BEND

Your new vehicle warranty stays in effect when maintaining your vehicle at...

(519) 238-245170793 Hwy. 21 N.

Grand Bend

GRAND BEND’S POKER KINGGRAND BEND’S POKER KINGRichard Webb knows when to hold ‘em and when to fold ‘em. Now, the Canadian Poker Tour champ is ready to take on the world.Richard Webb knows when to hold ‘em and when to fold ‘em. Now, the Canadian Poker Tour champ is ready to take on the world.

PLUS: PAINT ONTARIO, TIM & CATHY HOFFMAN GET MARRIED, ANDPLUS: PAINT ONTARIO, TIM & CATHY HOFFMAN GET MARRIED, ANDSOUTH HURON ART STUDENTS PREPARE FIGURE SKATING BACKDROPSOUTH HURON ART STUDENTS PREPARE FIGURE SKATING BACKDROP

COVER PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CASEY LESSARDCOVER PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CASEY LESSARD

Go beyond the snapshotGo beyond the snapshot Learn how with Casey Lessard’s photography classes.

Th e spring session starts March 19 with classes for new and experienced camera users.To register, call 519-614-3614 or visit www.GrandBendPhoto.com/contact

www.carolinian.ca

2 • Thursday, March 12, 2009 http://www.GrandBendStrip.comStrip VIPs

Long live the king!Grand Bend gambler Richard Webb will travel globe after winning the Canadian Poker Tour crown

Richard Webb hit it big January 21 when he won the Canadian Poker Tour Invitational Finals at Ocean World Resort and Casino in the Dominican Republic. Webb was the best of Canada’s top 43 players, who were invited to the Caribbean resort to compete for the $60,000 title and a sponsorship contract worth $100,000. With the win, Webb will represent Canadian Poker Tour as the Canadian poker champion, and the company will pay his entry fee and all expenses when he competes in tournaments across Canada and around the world this year. He also gets to keep most of his winnings from any tournaments where he places “in the money”. It’s a high level of success for this 48-year old Dashwood native, who grew up playing cards and still plays poker weekly with his friends and family.

Photos and photo illustration by Casey LessardAs told to Casey Lessard

When did I start playing poker? Probably with my dad when I was a young child. He would deal hand after hand of seven-card stud, and practice and play. He was a card player, and I learned my card skills from him. As we were growing up, we played cards all the time: euchre, solo, hearts – all the card games you play as a family.

Along came the charity casino days, and I played poker at those not knowing much of what I was doing. It was mainly limit poker, so there’s a fixed small blind and large blind, and there are only three or four raises. Each game would be $5 to $20 per game.

We started playing out at a local establishment in Exeter on Monday and Tuesday nights, and we moved out here for a regular Tuesday night poker game (his basement has a poker room complete with a beautiful poker table, comfortable chairs, and a painting of dogs playing poker). We had been playing various types of games, but we could see that no-limit hold ‘em was where the future of poker was. In no-limit, you can raise any time. This was in the fall of 2004 after Chris Moneymaker won the World Series of Poker, which really was the start of the explosion of the poker trend.

In February 2005, I entered my first tournament, the Bluewater Championships at Point Edward charity casino, which was their first. There were about 400 people putting up $500 each. Lo and behold, I finished second. That was a good start. I took a good portion of the winnings and took a month long motorhome trip across Canada with my family.

I played the Bluewater Championships again in February 2006, and won it that time. They had another one in September, and I won that, too. I think first prize was some-thing like $50,000 each, so that set me off. I made headlines in poker magazines, and the international poker rankings mentioned it because it’s unusual to win back-to-back.

In 2007, I made the money again at Bluewater, finishing 12th. Then I went to Regina, where I won a tournament. It’s not the biggest tournament in Canada, but it’s one of the best.

In 2008, I came back and won the Bluewater for the third time. That gave me entry into the Canadian championships, which were put on by the Canadian Poker Tour. They decided to have a tournament for the top point getters throughout the year. In any given year, I’ve never been the top points person, but I’ve always come close. Historically, since I started, I am number one overall.

Canadian championshipsIt was a very good field of experienced players, all of who

had won tournaments or come close, and we played in Puerto

Plata. It was well put together with a big reception party. I went through day one, not as the top chip player but as one of the top 12 moving into day two. By the time we got to nine players, I started to take the lead. When we made the final table, I was the chip leader. Not by a lot, but I was chip leader.

I played well. I made two bad calls throughout that time where I actually got in the hand when I was behind. In one case I lost the hand, and the other I drew out on a guy from Toronto. He had an ace/nine versus my king/jack. You get two cards and you’re trying to make a five-card hand. Three cards are flipped – the “flop”. The “turn” brings another card, and then there’s the “river”. I got a jack on the flop to make a pair and that eliminated him.

That was good luck. You want to get in when you’re the favourite. His hand was 55 per cent favoured to my 45 per cent because he had the ace. He had one card that was over my two, but my two were over his bottom card. He had to hit an ace to win. It worked out for me.

I proceeded to knock out the rest of the field. I got down to playing heads-up with a guy named Robert Beveridge, who won two Grey Cups as a CFL player and now coaches foot-ball at the University of British Columbia. I trapped him on a hand. I had pocket queens and he had ace/seven. I was 75-80 per cent favoured to win the hand and luckily he got an ace in the flop. The very next hand I picked up pocket sevens and moved all in against his ace/queen. A seven on the flop gave me three of a kind and I won the tournament.

With the $60,000 prize, I get a $100,000 contract to go around the world and play poker. I give them 20 per cent of what I win and I give 10 per cent to charity in the city where I win. If it’s an international win, I’ll donate it in Grand Bend, Dashwood or Calgary, where the Canadian Poker Tour is based.

I’ve worked my schedule so I can still run my business (Stewart Webb & Sons septic systems, which he runs with his brother), and have already started touring. I went to Los Angeles for the LA Poker Classic, which is one of the pre-mier events. The winner takes $1.7 million, and I played well, but didn’t make it into the top 63 to get into the money. I jumped on a plane a couple days later to Calgary and finished 38th, which was in the money, and came home.

I’m going to Regina this month; to Sanremo, Italy in April, to play in the European Poker Tour event there; Calgary for the Canadian Open; Las Vegas for the World Series; Barcelona, Spain; hopefully the North American champion-ships in Niagara; and a whole bunch of tournaments across Canada to represent the tour coast-to-coast.

For the World Series of Poker, there will be 7,000 players putting up $10,000 each, so first prize is about $9 million. Last year there were two Canadians at the final table.

Grand Bend resident and Dashwood native Richard Webb won cash,

sponsorship, and a ring at the Canadian Poker Tour Invitational

Finals in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic in January. You can see

him play on The Score in April. Check thescore.com for air times.

Strip VIPshttp://www.GrandBendStrip.com Thursday, March 12, 2009 • 3

Keeping everything in perspectiveCards are a hobby for me. You see the glamour and glitz

on TV, but there’s so much more that goes into it that it isn’t something I would want to have to depend on for rent pay-ments at the end of the month. It would certainly subsidize my income if I decided to retire, but the pressure wouldn’t be there to perform.

I’ve been fortunate. But if I never won another tournament again, I’d be quite sat-isfied with what I’ve achieved. That said, the Canadian Poker Tour wants me to win. Next year they’re planning to do the same thing but offer contracts to all of the players that make the final table.

If I walk into a poker room anywhere in Canada, they know who I am because of the previous years. I play as hard as I can, but it’s always about the W for me. I don’t look at the money – I look for the win. That might help me be more relaxed at the end, and I think that’s one of my strengths. Plus I have a lot of final table experience.

I wear sunglasses and a hat, and I’m listen-ing to music a lot of the time. I try to establish how good someone’s hand is, and if I’m right 60 per cent of the time, I’m doing well.

The more hands you see, the better. In no-limit poker, there’s raising (the stakes) and fold-ing (your hand); no calling. Calling will just get you into trouble unless you’re trying to trap somebody. A good fold is as good as a good call. Maybe better. You’ve got to be able to fold when you’re beat. If you don’t, you’re going to be out of the tournament in a hurry.

It doesn’t matter if it’s for $10 or $10,000; it’s still about winning. I still like to play. Cards are a social sport. At tournaments, you’re sitting at tables for 10-12 hours, so I want to be able to talk to the person next to me. If you’re likable, maybe people don’t try to knock you out as hard. I always shake hands and say goodbye to everyone.

I’m definitely living the dream. It’s always nice to take Jackie and Sarah with me to places where it’s nice and warm, or places they want to see. Jackie will be going with me to Italy, and hopefully Jackie and Sarah will go with me to Barcelona. When I’m there playing, I don’t do anything other than play, but if I take an extra week, we can enjoy the places together. The money I’ve won has been used for things for my family and extended family, so it goes to good use and isn’t wasted.

We still play every Tuesday night with the boys, and they beat me all the time. I play with my father every Tuesday and he beats me quite regularly. I like the ability to play with my dad. I’ve taken him to some tournaments; he sees the success I’ve had, and he’s proud of that.

If I win $50,000 Sunday night, I still go to work Monday morning. If I were given a long-term contract to represent an organization, I probably would take it. I like the ability to get out there and meet people. If they want me to do charity events, I’m happy to do it. If I have interviews to do, I’m happy to do that. If I win one of the big tournaments this year, it’s not going to change the way I am and I’ll probably still come to work the next day. Well, maybe I’d take a couple days off before coming back.

To see Richard Webb win the Canadian Poker Tour Invitational Finals, you can watch The Score in April. Air dates and times are not yet set, but will be listed at thescore.com

Right: Richard Webb as the King of Diamonds

Strip VIPs

START NOWBe prepared for April 30, 2009

BOB DIETRICHINCOME TAX SERVICEZurich - 519-236-4989

519-294-0651

[email protected]

www.DecorateWithLorette.com

Lorette (Vanneste) MawsonDecorating and Home Staging

ecoratewith LoretteD

option #1

A cool way to start married lifeTim Hoffman of Dashwood and Cathy Costello

of Mitchell met through a mutual friend two years ago, and started dating. They got married February 14 on a three-layer cake made of snow as part of the Grand Bend Winter Carnival.

Interview & photos by Casey Lessard

Take me back to when you first met.Tim: It was a blind date, so I had no idea

what she would look like. You never know what to expect, but it was good. We had good conversation that night and everything went well, and when I left, she told me to come and give her a hug.

Cathy: He was a gentleman. Very nice. He seemed really down to earth. He deserved a hug.

The first date is one thing, but what was the impetus to say this is going to work?

C: I brought him to a party with the girls I work with, and the Mitchell girls are pretty wild. He fit right in with them. It was very important that he could put up with their craziness.

T: They all seemed to enjoy a good time

and were fun to be around. Then Cathy came up and gradually met my family more and more and fit in really well.

Family is really important to both of you. What was it like to think about merging the two?

C: We just felt it was the next step to take. I was ready to move out of Mitchell, out of the small town – and into another small town. We were driving a lot; he came up pretty much every night to Mitchell. We just thought it would make more sense to be in the same household.

T: As time goes on, you can see you will be compatible together and it makes sense to take the next step.

What were you looking for? What was spe-cial about Cathy?

T: Someone who takes interest in what I do, and we can have a good time together and laugh together.

What was special about Tim?C: He had to be compatible with my

daughter Olivia. Whenever they met, they just clicked. That was nice to see.

Cathy, you had a family already. How did that play into things?

C: It was hard. I didn’t trust many people. I could see with Tim that he was a genuinely nice guy and treated her and me with respect.

T: I just tried to be a good role model for Olivia and build a family with them.

How did you propose?T: We were going on a camping trip to

Tobermory last August, and I knew prior to the trip that I would do it. There’s a high cliff on the Bruce Trail, and it’s the most beautiful spot that I’ve ever seen. There’s nothing man-made as far as you can see. Years ago, before I had met Cathy, I said that would be the spot if I ever had to propose.

We had quite a challenging time to get to that point. It was a holiday weekend, so you had to take a narrow provincial park road and I was towing a big trailer. It was pretty much impossible for two cars to go side-by-side. Someone pretty much ran me off the road and I ended up getting stuck in the gravel going partway up the hill. We thought we were going to be there for the day. Finally, a bunch of good old Canadian boys came along and gave us a push out.

We got it out and got over the hill, and we couldn’t go any further because there were all these cars parked there. So we pulled off the side as far as we could and went swimming.

When I went back to the truck, the cars were gone and I was able to move

the truck to the parking lot.I told Cathy I wanted to go

for a hike before it got dark, and luckily enough, Cathy, Olivia and my nephew were willing to go. Olivia was apprehen-sive because she didn’t want to walk, but she got in her head that she was going to be the leader and she beat us to the top.

Once we got to the high cliff, I told the kids I needed to talk to Cathy in private for a min-ute.

C: I didn’t know what was going on. We had gone up the trail the year before and up to the cliff. He shooed the kids away and proposed. It was very sweet. Olivia didn’t know what

to think, but she was fine. She gave Tim a big hug and she was happy.

Then this contest comes up. Whose idea was it to enter?

C: We had gone out to supper with a bunch of people f rom his work, and the whole month before they had been saying, You’ve got to enter. They were on us all night long and we came home and decided to put our names in. We didn’t think too much about it.

I was at work and it was 7:50 a.m. They said “Cathy Costello, Line 1.” I picked up and the voice said, This is so-and-so from 104.9 The Beach. Do you have a few minutes to talk to us? I was like, not really, I’m at work. I tried my best to get out of the phone call, but he said he would call back in half an hour. My heart was racing the whole time. All the girls were wondering what was wrong with me.

They called back and gave me the spiel about how we had won and would be the couple on the cake. I went to my supervisor and asked if I could make a long-distance call to Tim. His boss answered and she started screaming. It was crazy.

T: We had only entered the week before and the wedding was two weeks later.

C: We hadn’t told anyone at all that we had entered. People were calling and it was crazy that day.

The big day comes around, and you’re on a big snow cake. What was it like?

C: I was really nervous until I got on top of the cake and it was so calm and quiet up there. It was fine once we were up there.

T: You’re kind of apprehensive about the crowd of strangers watching you, but it was just us up there.

What was most interesting about getting married on the snow cake?

T: Getting Cathy known in the community. Everyone’s going to know her now! We pretty much went for a month straight being on the front page of the paper.

C: At the time, it was so completely stress-ful, but I look back now and think it was a cool way to do it.

Tim and Cathy will have another wedding this summer. They are thankful for the work of Linda Hillman-Rapley and Diana Simpson for organizing the wedding.

4 • Thursday, March 12, 2009 http://www.GrandBendStrip.com

www.huronridge.ca

74101 Bronson LineRR#2 Zurich

[email protected]

Th e Steckle Family

Spring’s Just Around the Corner!

Strip VIPs

FOR RESERVATIONS OR TAKE-OUT, CALL:

519-238-6786 - 135 Ontario St. S., Grand Bend

FISH ‘N’ CHIPSAll U Can Eat - Every FridayPlus: NOW serving breakfast Sundays until 1pm

Lambton Heritage Museum

Return of the Swans March 14 – April 5, 2009

Fun for the whole family! You may see up to 10,000 Tundra Swans, Canada Geese and Ducks

resting on the Old Thedford Bog on their migration northward.

www.paintontario.com

Explore interpretive displays about tundra swan migration

*Children’s Activities* *Snacks*

10am -5pm daily

Ipperwash Maple Syrup Festival nearby

March 21/22 & March 28/29 sponsored by Forest Kiwanis Club

1-866-692-4315

For swan and event updates Sarnia-Lambton Tourism

at 1-800-265-0316 or www.returnoftheswans.com

Lambton Heritage Museum 8 km south of Grand Bend on Highway 21 519 243-2600 www.lclmg.org

http://www.GrandBendStrip.com Thursday, March 12, 2009 • 5

GET MARRIED WITH US!Save 10% on Friday and Sunday

wedding packages.Call us now to book your big day!

Hessenland Country InnRR#2 Zurich - (519) 236-7707

www.hessenland.com

Where do you fi nd a knife to cut that cake?

Tim Hoffman and Cathy Costello climbed the stairs February 14 to get married on a giant cake carved out of snow in front of hundreds of fam-

ily, friends and onlookers. They were chosen to be the bride and groom at the top of the cake after entering a contest run by The Beach 104.9 FM

in Goderich as part of the Grand Bend Chamber of Commerce Winter Carnival celebrations.

Right: Waiting to say “I do.”

Below: The happy couple kisses after saying their vows.

Below right: Laurie Beth Reycraft and Scott Russell got married on a similar cake in the same spot 19 years ago. They’re still happily married,

which the Hoffmans see as a good omen. They attended the wedding to offer their best wishes.


Tell me again why we’re in Afghanistan

Strip Thoughts

View from

the StripBy Casey Lessard

Grand Bend StripP.O. Box 218

Grand Bend, OntarioN0M 1T0CANADA

Phone: (519) 614-3614Fax: 1 (866) 753-2781

[email protected]://www.grandbendstrip.com

Publisher/Editor: Casey LessardAdvertising Sales: Casey LessardChief Photographer: Casey Lessard

Distribution: Joan McCullough, Rita Lessard and Casey Lessard

Contributors:

Tom Lessard - my dadRita Lessard - my momAnjhela Michielsen - social justiceJenipher Appleton - nature/birdingLance Crossley - national affairsJames Eddington - fine diningLorette Mawson - interior design

Advertising is accepted on condition

that, in the event of an error, the portion

of the ad occupied by the error will not be

charged for, but the balance will be paid at

the usual rate.

It is the responsibility of the advertiser

to check their ads on first publication, and

the publisher accepts no responsibility for

errors in multiple insertions.

The Grand Bend Strip reserves the right

to reject or edit any advertisement likely to

offend community standards and/or the

law.

All material herein, including advertis-

ing design, is copyrighted and may not be

reproduced in any form.

Grand Bend Strip is printed every other

Wednesday in the summer and monthly

in the winter. For this edition, 1000 were

printed with more than 600 sent directly

to subscribers in the Grand Bend area, and

across North America.

Winter subscriptions cost $12.

Alert the Grand Bend Strip of any

address changes, and to let us know if you

should be but are not receiving your copy

of the paper.

Locally owned and operated© Copyright 2009

Outstanding Reporter Initiative(Circulation up to 9,999)

You may have seen – or not seen but noticed – that A-Channel London no longer has a morning show. The people who lost their jobs there are among many cut from the television station, including some who will be let go in August. Also gone are two bureau stations in Wingham and Windsor. It’s a tough time for television journalists in southwestern Ontario, that’s for sure.

I used to be one of those people, work-ing at CKCO in Kitchener until 2005. And I went to school, worked with, or worked beside several of the people who lost their jobs this week at A-Channel. Anjhela and Gloria played their music on the morning show a couple of years ago, and my dad was interviewed several times by Wingham’s Scott Miller when the sewer debate was happening in Crediton. I saw many of these journalists after Bill and Helene Regier were murdered, and again at the Imeson trial. I’m sure you’d recognize some of their faces.

Television is facing tough times as advertis-ing dollars dry up in the current economic climate. But let’s be honest; does local televi-sion serve a purpose? If the advertising dollars aren’t there, isn’t it just a big waste of money on a very large make-work project? Who needs local TV when we have the internet?

You can do pretty much everything you need on the net, including watching your favourite shows, talking to friends, making friends, making enemies, whatever.

More importantly, you can even read the news on-line. Who needs TV news? Heck, you don’t even need to buy a newspaper – you can get that on-line, too. And it’s free!

In fact, that’s true for journalists, too. We don’t need to be in Wingham, Dashwood, or even Varna to know what’s happening there. It’s all on the internet, and a TV assignment editor can simply send someone from London to do the story when it’s needed. Even better, forget London and centralize in Toronto. It’s not that far to drive.

Besides, do you really care what happens in your own community, on your street, to your neighbours? That information is overrated, and someone has to be blogging about it on the internet, right? Maybe even someone who actually lives in this area.

Personally, I don’t own a TV, but you prob-ably do. Let’s look at the bigger picture. The loss of local programming at A-Channel is not just about the fact of the loss. It raises a larger question: do we really need local news?

A few hundred people in this community (meaning you, the Grand Bend Strip sub-scriber) think it’s important to read the local news in this newspaper, and the other paper has a few readers, too. But how long will that last before the internet takes over and you’re the last to know when someone from your community is named a Canadian champion, or that your child did something great? When local news outlets leave, start the clock.

The most important part of this equation is the one the TV networks and the inter-net news providers can’t provide. Every news story starts as a local news story. Then it goes regional, then provincial, national and inter-national. If there’s no local news provider, there’s no news. That’s the truth.

You know the value of local news – you even pay me to do it. Thank you. Now spread the word. Maybe we can keep some of those people at A-Channel producing news that matters to you.

If you think local TV news is important write your support for A-Channel news to the CRTC, CTV Globemedia, and your MP.

Who needs local news?

Alternative

ViewBy Lance Crossley

Prime Minister Stephen Harper drew heavy criticism earlier this month when he told CNN that international forces in Afghanistan were never going to defeat the insurgency. His comments provoked a tongue-lashing by everybody from opposing political parties to the renowned Washington-based magazine Foreign Affairs.

What’s really shocking about Harper’s com-ments is not their legitimacy; many reputable sources close to the issue have said the same thing for a long time now. The real scandal is what his comments and the ensuing reaction to it reveal about the pathetic scope of debate on the Afghanistan issue.

Those who criticize Harper do so because they believe the war can be won, or that it is an insult to soldiers to say otherwise.

What links Harper and his critics is that they all justify the war based on whether it is winnable or not. If we can win, we should stay. If we are going to lose, we should go. (A few years ago Harper was happy to boast to the world that Canadians “don’t cut and run”.)

There’s been an appalling lack of critical thought in this country about this war ever since the former Liberal government signed up for George Bush’s “war on terror”. Iraq has had plenty of critics, but Afghanistan has been strangely immune to criticism. Nowhere can I find a convincing answer to a very sim-

ple question: Why are we there?Are we there because of September 11? The

Taliban were not involved in the planning of 9/11. Before the invasion, the United States propped up the Taliban regime with millions of dollars until American oil interests were unable to build a lucrative pipeline through the country. That is why government docu-ments show the U.S. was planning to over-throw the Taliban well before the terrorist attacks. Sound like Iraq? This is a more ratio-nal explanation than the idea of squandering billions of dollars just to hunt down one man.

Are we there to instil freedom and democ-racy? In October 2001, the U.S. and its allies ignored the pleas of 1,000 non-Taliban Afghan leaders to stop the bombing of their country. The leaders begged the West to overthrow the Taliban regime through other means – a goal they believed was possible without killing. Why were these proposed alternatives never considered?

Are we there to counter Islamic fundamen-talism? We now have a country run by drug warlords with no viable economy, horrendous rates of illiteracy, and widespread starvation. Nothing has improved. Things are worse. Worse yet, the Taliban has been given a new lease on life thanks to the hatred the war has incited among Afghans.

To date, more than 100 Canadian soldiers have died. With each death, this country turns into hero-worship mode, turning our sol-diers into martyrs for dying for such a ‘noble cause’. But their deaths do not make them heroes; rather, they become tragic figures. Their deaths are tragic because we cannot give a good reason why they had to die.

To the Editor:A huge thank you to those who

supported the troop morale spa-ghetti dinner. Over $2,000 was raised, including $400 from people who didn’t even attend the din-ner. A special thanks to the volun-

teers who produced the meal and refreshments, and to the Grand Bend Sobey’s and No Frills stores for donating product.

Harry C. Young - Greenway

A big thank you to all who

helped at the troop morale spa-ghetti dinner. Kitchen: Gayle McGregor; Brad Hawkins; Rick; and Barry Hill. Servers: Al Noxell; Joan McCullough; Jeanette Wales.

Special thanks to Mike Tieman for keeping everything full and

Our local businesses were very generous: Mike and Terri Rahn of No Frills; and Bob Uhrig of Sobey’s. It was a great success and we loved the support. Thanks to all.

Sheila TiedemanGrand Bend Legion Branch 498

Gord Glazier for running to the store. Many thanks to those who donated home-made sauce: Linda Hill; Fred and Helen Teeple; Mary and Jim Blair; Lois Gilbert; Marilyn Dick; Craig Coltman; and Sheila.

http://www.GrandBendStrip.com Thursday, March 12, 2009 • 7

A creativity development project by Strip photographer Casey Lessard

Exhibiting this July atBliss Studio in Port Franks

365CASEY

.COM

8 • Thursday, March 12, 2009 http://www.GrandBendStrip.comStrip Feature

Lucky 13 for Paint OntarioFocus of annual show is representational art

Paint OntarioMARCH 14 TO APRIL 5

a.m. to p.m. - Lambton Heritage Museum

By Casey Lessard

“Fight poverty, buy art.”That’s the mantra Paint Ontario founder Barry Richman

uses to encourage people to support the representational art show he started in 1996.

“Paint Ontario was established by me, selfishly,” says Richman, “to serve artists like me – representational artists. We paint something that looks like that thing. Not abstract, not installations.”

This year’s juried show accepted 300 entries from about 110 artists; only 120 fit on the walls at the Lambton Heritage Museum. Most artists are from Ontario, with some from Michigan and elsewhere. Some artists will have no pieces accepted into the show, and the most an artist can have in the show is three.

It’s an attractive venue for artists for a reason. Forty-three paintings sold last year, an increase from the year before; this year may be different because of the economic climate.

“I don’t know any place that sells 43 pieces in three weeks. I don’t know how sales will go, but we’re up 50 per cent in

entries from last year.”All of the art is available for sale, with prices ranging from

$175 to $6,000. Last year’s average sale price was $645. To prize for best in show is $2000, with other prizes offered. They include purchase awards for two pieces: $750 for a local piece featuring people living a healthy lifestyle that will be purchased by the Grand Bend Area Health Services and paid for by John and Helen Walsh; and $500 for a piece chosen by Richman to join the Paint Ontario permanent collection.

Richman is available to give tours to anyone coming to the show for the first time; he also has a wall set up with a good cross-section of the different subjects represented in the show.

“The biggest thing I enjoy is watching how artists have grown compared to last year. Artists come and are very objec-tive about why not all of their pieces got in the show, or why none got in. They find out where they’re falling short and talk to me about what makes a good painting or a great painting. To me, that’s very important.”

For more information, visit www.paintontario.com

Day’s End on Vanneck Road

Fran Roelands, Ailsa Craig. Watercolour - $700

Luminous Soul

Gwen Card, Appin. Alkyd oil - $1,000

In Flight

Lynda White, London. Watercolour - $800

August Evening

L.L. Jones, Parkhill. Pastel - $700.

http://www.GrandBendStrip.com Thursday, March 12, 2009 • 9Strip Events

Return of the Tundra SwansMarch to April a.m. to p.m. – Lambton Heritage Museumwww.returnoftheswans.com

If you’re a fan of birds or awesome specta-cles, you should visit the Thedford Bog east of the Lambton Heritage Museum this month as the tundra swans return. Every spring, thousands of tundra swans leave the eastern U.S. seaboard en route to the Canadian arctic. There’s no specific date to predict when they will first arrive, but the museum’s website can keep you up to date on their progress.

“It’s just part of their migration habit,” says director and curator John Tremain. “They’ve been raised with that route. It’s a nice 24 trip for them from Chesapeake Bay. They arrive tired and rest and feed here for about two weeks.”

The birds return in the fall, but don’t rest for long because it’s not as safe; spring thaw waters on fields give them space from preda-tors and plenty to eat in the form of corn left over from the harvest.

The best place to find the birds is off Greenway Road, on the road east of Highway 21 just before the road curves north. Bring binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens (perhaps even a tripod or monopod), and dress appropriately. Pinery naturalists and Friends of the Pinery make regular trips to the area with spotting scopes for visitors to view the swans.

To get you in the mood for spring, Grand Bend artist Jack Winn presents an exhibition of small panels of winter scenes at Baillie’s Framing (beside the Grand Bend post office). The 15 panels, ranging in size from 6”x8” to 12”x15”, all depict local scenes. Some of the paintings are part of the juried show, Paint Ontario. The show runs from March 14 to April 3, with an opening reception Saturday, March 21 at noon. For more, visit jackwinn.com

Who needs spring when winter looks like this?

On the Wing

Ken Jackson, London. Watercolour - $1200 at Paint Ontario

Tundra swans returning soon

Strip Events

ontario.ca/eatrightPaid for by the Government of Ontario

Diabetes isn’t just about sugar.We can help you avoid simple things that put your family at high risk.

Call a Registered Dietitian for free.

EatRight Ontario 1-877-510-510-2

Meet Me at the DinerExeter Skating Club CarnivalSunday, March and p.m. (two shows) - South Hu-ron Recreation Centre (advance) or (at door), for children and under

While skaters prepare their routines for the Exeter Skating Club carnival March 29, stu-dents at South Huron District High School are preparing a backdrop to match the theme, Meet Me at the Diner.

“In groups they came up with images that reflect the various eras from the 1950s to now,” says visual arts teacher Carleen Hone, who is supervising the project by her Grade 10 art class. Among the images are portraits of Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and Garfield, as well as images of breakdancing and iPods.

The SHDHS band will also perform at the carnival, which features junior national skat-ing champions and local skaters.


This photo: Jade Wuerch of Zurich

prepares a modern motif.

Left: Dariann Telford of Zurich

touches up the Wurlitzer.

Below left: Ashley Wettlaufer of

Exeter, Meghan McGill of Grand

Bend, Syarra Kirk of Exeter and

Laura Gehan of Hensall work on

the 1950s section.

Strip Thoughtshttp://www.GrandBendStrip.com Thursday, March 12, 2009 • 11

Advice

from MomBy Rita Lessard Frankenmuth, Michigan is a beautiful little

town on I-75 between Saginaw and Bay City. The big attraction is a Santa’s Village, but it is also known for having a variety of excellent restaurants and parks. It also has its very own brewery, from which you can purchase buck-ets of beer of various sizes at a convenient window without even entering the building. I know, because this was my first stop.

How did we get there? Well, as usual, we purchased tickets from the Albatross and of course that was the embarking area. Those days, the bar was closed on Sundays, but it amazed me how much liquid flowed. When bar crowds don’t have to drive to their desti-nation, they naturally enjoy their spirits.

The bus arrived and off we went. This trip, we had no problems at the Sarnia-Port Huron border. We stopped at a restaurant shortly after crossing the border and had a snack. From there to Frankenmuth it’s about two hours, a pleasant bus ride of rolling country-side and small towns and villages. The only different between that part of Michigan and our part of Ontario is the license plates.

When we arrived at our destination, the heat got to me and I took a little nap under a tree while the rest of the gang spread out. I awoke after a short time to find a parade pass-ing a block away. My wife disappeared some-where leaving me without funds. Wandering around, I met my buddy Gig and we hooked up together to watch the parade. When it was over while searching for the rest of the busload, we stopped at the brewery where Gig treated for a couple of buckets. After a time we carried on downtown. We were pass-ing a hotel when, all of a sudden, there was a commotion and the next thing we knew the

troopers were escorting old Lawrence out of the establishment. We approached them and asked what the trouble was. It seems that Lawrence was giving the employees a hard time and creating a disturbance. We told them that he was with us that we would look after him. They were kind enough to agree after giving us a warning. Off we went with Lawrence between us until we came to a pretty little shaded park where we propped him against a tree. By this time we were dry again. Gig spotted a store a short ways away and took off. He came back with a brown paper bag containing two bottles of wine. It reminded me of our days in Cyprus on the second tour. Anyway, we didn’t take long dis-posing of the grapes, ensuring that Lawrence had only a couple of sips each round.

The sun was heading west by this time, so we headed back to the rendezvous with the bus. My wife and her friends were there to greet us. Off we went home. I never did get to see Santa.

Congratulations Bill and Christine, who welcomed Johan Robert March 4, a little brother for Will. Happy Birthday to Rita, April 5!

Keeping

the PeaceBy Tom Lessard, C.D.

What a glorious sunny day! This past Friday, March 6, the warm sun was shining and the promise of nice weather appeared to be our reward for enduring such a bitterly cold three months of icy temperatures. But, alas, it was short lived; I went to start my car early Saturday morning and it was back to scraping the ice off. Then came the rain, but I’m not one to despair as my mind is on my plans to go to Punta Cana on March 16. Thanks to the generosity of my sister Joan, I’m able to go somewhere that will thaw me out.

I’ve been packed for at least three weeks, so I guess you could say I’m eager to go. I prob-ably won’t get much of a tan, but with any luck my freckles and age spots will make it look like I belong. Joan will be quite tanned as she’s been around. Let me rephrase that: she’s a seasoned traveler and she loves the sun.

Regardless, if I get a tan or not I’m looking forward to going. I’ve packed the necessary supplies like sunscreen, after-sun lotion, insect repellent, and of course, Imodium and extra

Free paraffi n waxNow until March, get a free paraffi n wax with every colour service.

Great hair care at a great priceTheTheCuttingCuttingEdgeEdge

8414 Lazy Lane, Thedford8414 Lazy Lane, ThedfordAmy Michielsen -Amy Michielsen - 519-243-2693519-243-2693

Call for your cut, colour, manicures and waxing

North ForkKennel & Grooming

519-234-687969484 PARR LINE, CREDITONwww.northforkkennel.com

Going away?We’re your pet’s home away from home.

� � � � � � � � � � � �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� �

� � � � � � � �

BRIDAL SHOWCASETuesday, March , at p.m.South Huron Recreation Centre

94 Victoria St. E., Exeter

FREE ADMISSIONFEATURES:

Door Prizes • Fashion Show • Special Displays• Gift Bags for Every Bride •

For your free invitation, call:Faye 519-228-7053 or 1-877-675-8452

WALKINS WELCOME THAT EVENING

GRAND DOOR PRIZEMatching Wedding Bands supplied by:

Brought to you by

www.welcomewagon.ca

www.bridalshowcase.ca

Flying South Go West - to Frankenmuth

underwear – just in case the bottom falls out. You can never be too careful, you know!

Everyone tells me I deserve a rest, so I’m looking forward to a nice holiday with my best friend and sister. Perhaps I can do some-thing about the washed out look that seems to have attacked my person. One more reason to take a sunny holiday.

Since I’ll be flying, I’m going to leave you with a final note of a joke heard from my friend Frank. At an airline ticket counter, a small boy with his mother told the agent he was two years old. The man looked at him suspiciously and asked, “Do you know what happens to little boys who lie?” “Yes. They get to fly for half price.”

Happy birthday to my granddaughter Abby, who will turn twelve March 12, and to my daughter-in-law Val who will be… older on March 27. All the best, girls!

Editor’s Note: Happy birthday, mom! Enjoy your vacation - you deserve a break!

Playhouse actors need shelter this summer

More than 100 performers, musicians, directors, stage managers and production crew need temporary rental accommodation for the 2009 Huron Country Playhouse season.

“We rely heavily on the community’s sup-port,” facility manager Paul Pembleton said in a release.

The average accommodation rate is $70 per week, Pembleton said, and cast and crew work five weeks at a time, including two weeks of rehearsals and three weeks of performances; some work the whole season. Accommodations close to the theatre are

appreciated, but some performers have access to vehicles. Required amenities include cook-ing and washroom facilities.

“It ’s a great way to bring in some extra money if you have an empty room or two in your home, or a private apartment, basement apartment, or empty cottage that would be available during the summer,” Pembleton said, noting some people host several actors for the whole season, while others host for just one five-week period.

Info: Paul Pembleton (519) 238-8387 x50 or [email protected].

Paul Walker CFPAccounting & Income Tax ReturnsPersonal & CorporateE-File Service • 20+ Years Experience

Phone: 519 786-3637Cell: 519 614-3637

Email: [email protected] Warwick Village Road

RR#8 Watford N0M 2S0

Present this ad to

save $5 OFF ANY SERVICE with

RACHEL MICHIELSENThe latest addition to Barb Speirs’ Beauty ‘n’ the Beach

Book your cut, colour and style with Rachel at:

BEAUTY ‘N’ THE BEACHHair Studio

14 Main Street, Grand Bend(on your way to the beach)

519-238-6520

12 • Thursday, March 12, 2009 http://www.GrandBendStrip.comStrip at the Carnival

Jaimee Wells is the head, but Megan McConnell is

the body as the Munchkins at the kids’ talent show.

Blake Percy performs Wonderwall by Oasis at the

talent show at the Oakwood Inn pub.

Scenes from the Carnival

The second weekend of this year’s Grand Bend Winter Carnival featured not only a wedding (see pages 4-5), but also a parade, waiters’ race and kids’ talent show among other events.

More photos at www.grandbendstrip.com

Photos by Casey Lessard

Olivia Thomas represents the Home Hardware float

in the Rotary Parade.

Pam Geoffrey of Paddington’s struggles to keep her balance in the waiter races at the Colonial Hotel.

NEEDS

YOU

HURON COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE

For more information, please contact Paul Pembleton, Facility Manager: Huron Country Playhouse RR 1, 70689 B Line, Grand Bend519-238-8387 ext. 50 [email protected]

The Huron Country Playhouse in Grand Bend needs your help to house many performers, musicians, directors, stage managers and production crew who will be working at the theatre during the 2009 Season.

Various lengths of stay are needed from May to September 2009

http://www.GrandBendStrip.com Thursday, March 12, 2009 • 13Strip Thoughts

Eye for DesignBy Lorette Mawson

http://www.DecorateWithLorette.com

We are approaching that time of year when, quite frankly, I am ready to say goodbye to winter, open up those windows and welcome spring.

This time of year seems to get me motivated to spruce things up a little, which brings me to something I love to do: reinventing things I already have. During these economic times, we are being frugal with our money. It always amazes me how some good old-fashioned elbow grease, paint, fabric or new handles can transform something familiar into a thing of beauty.

Just because a piece was bought for a certain place, does not mean that it cannot be used for something totally different. I

have seen china cabinets brought into bathrooms and a dresser used as a TV stand. Remove doors or change colour; there are many possibilities.

This is also great time to declutter. Because we spend more time indoors in the winter, things sometimes get a little disor-ganized. Sometimes that means we have to make a furniture purchase; if this is the case, I always look for furniture that is multi-purpose. For example, I just purchased a set of cubes that look like ottomans, and which provide extra seating in my living room. The seat can be flipped over to become a tray that comes in handy as a table for drinks. They also provide storage space for things like toys, magazines. They are soft, so kids don’t have to worry about hurting themselves. Multi-purpose furniture like this makes life a little easier.

So, whether you purchase a new item or you reinvent some-thing that you already have, it is all about creating a place you feel comfortable in and that you love to come home to.

If you are interested in purchasing cubes or other interesting

Need a change? Try reinventing what you have

On the last Saturday in March at 8:30 p.m., people around the world will be turn-ing off their lights, computers, TV’s, etc. for 60 minutes. Why, you may ask? This eco-friendly gesture shows a global awareness of the importance of saving energy. The goal for Earth Hour 2009 is for a billion people in over 1,000 cities to turn out their lights at the same time, demonstrating solidarity of caring for our planet. Imagine cities like Toronto, New York, or Tokyo; lights out in thousands of skyscrapers, malls, businesses and homes. Imagine families playing interactive board games instead of electronic ones; or having meaningful conversations; some of them may even include discussions about the eco-sys-tem or the future of the planet.

Earth Hour began in Sydney, Australia in 2007 when 2.2 million homes and busi-nesses took part. In 2008, over 50 million people participated. Lights were out on San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, Rome’s Colosseum, the Sydney Opera House, and the Coca Cola Billboard in Times Square, to

name a few. To learn more about Earth Hour, or to sign

up, you can do a Google search for “Earth Hour 2009” to find several websites. This year, the idea is that your light switch in the off position is a vote for Planet Earth. Leaving it on is a vote for global warming. Back in the 1970s, the slogan was ‘If we each save a little, we’ll all save a lot.’ Too bad not many people paid attention to the idea then. We might be in better shape now if they had!

Sure signs of springSightings in the first week of March

Red-winged blackbirds GracklesRobinsA killdeerGreat blue heronCanada geese flying north or nesting in the corn fieldBald eagles in North MiddlesexGold finches changing plumage to brighter yellow

••••••

••

Do your part for the planet March 28Living

in BalanceBy Jenipher Appleton

1306-014B © Prudential Financial. Prudential Real Estate brokerage services are offered through the independently owned and operated network of broker member franchisees of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. and Prudential are registered service marks of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and are used herein under license. Equal Housing Opportunity.

We’ve just opened up a new office near you. Now, getting the personal service and expertise you need to buy or sell a home is more convenient than ever. Prudential Real Estate sales professionals bring you unmatched local knowledge.

Call or stop by our new location today.And see how we’re bringing you the future of real estate. Now.

Another prime location.

Visit us at:

2009

John GoodwinJohn Goodwin Broker of RecordBroker of Record27 Queens Ave27 Queens AveGrand BendGrand Bend

Office: 519-433-2323Offi ce: 519-433-2323Toll-free: 888-433-2325 Toll-free: 888-433-2325

Cell: 519-859-4646Cell: 519-859-4646Fax: 519-433-2328Fax: 519-433-2328

www.grandbendproperty.comwww.grandbendproperty.com

www.prudentialfamilyrealty.com

To Serve You BetterWE ARE NOW

EQUIPPED TO BUY YOUR SCRAP STEEL

BY THE POUNDOVER OUR NEWLY INSTALLED SCALES

519-234-6252Advanced Auto

Crediton

items, check out Leon’s Buy and Sell outside of Exeter. They have new items, as well as affordable items that, with a little tender, love and care, could be great pieces. You just have to think outside the cube.

Your fi nal paid Strip arrives

April 16, 2009

Grand Bend’sBest Kept Secret

(519) 238-2120

EVERYBODY WELCOME!Fun Darts

BingoMeat Draws

Mondays @ 7 p.m.Tuesdays @ 7 p.m.Fridays @ 5 p.m.

Hall rentals - contact Sharon (519) 238-6865

JOIN US SATURDAYS 3-6 PMMarch 14 - Mike Fagan March 21 - Horse Races

GrandBendSTART NOW

Be prepared for April 30, 2009

BOB DIETRICHINCOME TAX SERVICEZurich - 519-236-4989

Happy Birthday Mom!April 5

From Casey, Anj and the girls

TWO BARBERS - HOT TOWEL SHAVESOtterbein’s Barbershop

Men’s & Ladies’394 Main Street, Exeter

519-235-0559

14 • Thursday, March 12, 2009 http://www.GrandBendStrip.comTo Do List

To Do ListCommunity/Charity

EVERY TUESDAY

p.m. - Grand Bend LegionBingo

EVERY OTHER THURSDAY

Schoolhouse Restaurant, Grand BendSocrates Café. An informal discussion

group. For more information contact Dinah Taylor, 519-238-1114 or Ian Young, 519-238-5335.

EVERY FRIDAY

to p.m. - Grand Bend LegionMeat Draw

THURSDAY, MARCH 12: p.m. - St. John’s Anglican Church.Grand Bend Diners Program - sec-

ond and fourth Thursday of the month. Transportation is available along with take out. Cost $9/person, entertainment and social time. Contact Town & Country Support Services at 519-235-0258.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 TO APRIL 5 a.m. to p.m. - Lambton Heritage MuseumReturn of the Swans. Open daily. $5

adults, $4 seniors, students/children $3. Call 519-243-2600 for details.

a.m. to p.m. - Lambton Heritage MuseumPaint Ontario. Competition and Sale

begins. Regular Museum admission applies. Contact Barry Richman for details 519-238-6213.

TUESDAY, MARCH 17 a.m. - Grand Bend LegionGrand Bend Men’s Probus Meeting.

Speaker Greg Van Hevel will discuss Geo-Thermal Heating. Everyone welcome.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25Colonial HotelH u r o n C o u n t y P l a y h o u s e G u i l d

Luncheon Meeting. Guest speaker Pierre St. Laurent will show a slide presentation on Polar Bears. Members and Guests welcome. Phone Mary at 519-238-5640.

MONDAY, MARCH 30 p.m. - Grand Bend LegionGrand Bend Horticultural Society meet-

ing. Ian Jean from the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority will present “Native Plants”. More and more stress is being placed on using plants and trees that are native to our area. He will assist with pic-tures and discussion.

THURSDAY, APRIL 2 p.m. - Grand Bend CHC Sunset Cinema Social Film Group prese

nts “Touching the Void”, a true film about two British climbers who become separated on their descent from a mountain in the Andes. An amazing tale of survival!

Arts & Entertainment

THURSDAYS

to p.m. - Grand Bend Art CentreOpen Painting. Cost is $10 - bring a proj-

ect and materials and paint with various artists.

FRIDAYS

: to : p.m. - Grand Bend Youth CentreGrand Bend Drum Circle. Contact Anita

at the Youth Centre or call 519-238-8759.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 to p.m. - Grand Bend LegionSt. Patrick’s Day with Mike Fagan

THURSDAY, MARCH 19 TO MAY 7 to : p.m. - G.B. Art CentrePhoto classes with Casey Lessard.

Beginner classes at 6 p.m. and advanced classes at 7:45 p.m. $80 for eight weeks. Call 519-614-3614 or visit http://www.grand-bendphoto.com for more information.

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 to p.m. - Grand Bend LegionHorse Races

THURSDAY, MARCH 26Shoot Like A Pro with Mary Lynn Fluter.

Join us for a day of digital shooting and cri-tique with Mary Lynn. Get tips on expo-sure and composition; experiment and share in the company of others. Always fun and informative. Contact Teresa Marie for time, cost and information at: 238-8978 or [email protected]. Advance registration required.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28 to p.m. - Grand Bend LegionHorse Races

THURSDAY, APRIL 2 p.m. - Grand Bend CHC Sunset Cinema Social Film Group prese

nts “Touching the Void”, a true film about two British climbers who become separated on their descent from a mountain in the Andes. An amazing tale of survival!

SATURDAY, APRIL 11 to p.m. - Grand Bend LegionLive Music with Bob Finlay

Health & Fitness

MONDAYS

to a.m. - Southcott Pines ClubhouseWorkout for Your Life. $8 per class; $5 for

spouses and students. Call Beth Sweeney, (519) 238-5555.

: to a.m. - Grand Bend LegionT.G.I.F. (Thank God I’m Fit) exercise

class with Elinor Clarke 519-294-6499. $3 per week; all fees go to charity

: to p.m.Anne’s Yoga Works studio, Port FranksYoga Classes, info and registration call

Anne 519-243-3552. Beginners welcome.

TUESDAYS

a.m. – Port Franks Comm. CentreHealthy Lifestyle Exercise Program.

Program includes warm up, low impact aerobic workout, strength work and stretching. Sponsored in part by Healthy Living Lambton. Cost: Free!! Everyone welcome. Contact Cindy Maxfield, Health Promoter at the GBACHC, 519-238-1556 ext 6 to register.

to p.m. - South Huron Golf & Fitness Centre, ExeterWorkout for Your Life. $8 per class; $5 for

gym members, spouses and students. Call Beth Sweeney, (519) 238-5555.

WEDNESDAYS





to : a.m. - Grand Bend LegionLine Dancing

to p.m.Parkhill Leisure ClubYoga Classes, info and registration call

Anne 519-243-3552. Beginners welcome.

THURSDAYS

a.m. – Port Franks Comm. CentreHealthy Lifestyle Exercise Program. See

Tuesdays

to p.m. - South Huron Golf & Fitness Centre, ExeterWorkout for Your Life. $8 per class; $5 for

gym members, spouses and students. Call Beth Sweeney, (519) 238-5555.

FRIDAYS





FRIDAY, MARCH 13 a.m. to noon - GB. Public SchoolFuel Your Active Lifestyle at Ontario

Early Years Centre.

TUESDAY, MARCH 17 a.m. to p.m. - Grand Bend CHCFuel Your Active Lifestyle. Pick up recipes

and enjoy some taste testing.

THURSDAY, MARCH 19Blessings Community Store, ZurichCooking Outside of the Box. Yummy, low-

cost, healthy recipes! 10-3 p.m. Call Miranda at 519-238-1556 ext 222

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25 a.m. to p.m. - Grand Bend CHCMen Can Cook. Advance your cooking

skills and enjoy a tasty healthy lunch for $5. Contact Miranda at 519-238-1556 ext 222.

: to : p.m. or to : p.m. - Grand Bend CHCMental Health Education and Support

Group. Monthly support group for fam-ily and friends. Contact Social Worker Lise Callahan at 519-238-1556 ext. 230.

A-Z DRIVERS WANTED

AZ TEAM NEEDED! $0.52 per mile +benefits, limited dedicated Canadaand US runs based out of Kitchener &Blenheim. Minimum 2 years experi-ence, clean CVOR and abstract. Call7 days per week Toll-Free 1-888-213-9401 or apply online at www.transportjobs.net.

AUTOMOTIVE

MOTOR VEHICLE dealers in OntarioMUST be registered with OMVIC. Toverify dealer registration or seek helpwith a complaint, visitwww.omvic.on.ca or 1-800-943-6002.If you're buying a vehicle privately,don't become a curbsider's victim.Curbsiders are impostors who pose asprivate individuals, but are actually inthe business of selling stolen or dam-aged vehicles.

BUSINESS OPPS.

ATTENTION: Turn 10 hours/week intoup to $1,500/month. Work from homeonline. Free Training, flexible hours.www.succeedfromhomebiz.com.

CANDY ROUTE! We have helpedmany people establish successfulcash candy businesses. No Selling.Part or Full Time. Many SuccessStories. Low Investment. www.uturncanada.com.

DAIRY QUEEN RESTAURANT forsale. Located in Bonnyville, Alberta,the heart of oil country. Profitable, saledue to bereavement. Contact MarcelSylvestre 780-826-3147 [email protected].

EXCITING FRANCHISE OPPORTU-NITY! FORMAFENCE - Vinyl Fencing,Decking, Railings. Operate and ownyour own business. A proven & suc-cessful concept. Exclusive materialsand information. Visit www.formafence.com, Toll-Free 1-800-379-2125.

I HAVE BEEN STUPID FOR 20YEARS. Don't make the same mis-take. For more information on thisexciting and profitable opportunityCALL NOW Toll-Free 1-877-216-4360(24 hour recording).

MATCO TOOLS IS LOOKING FORFRANCHISEES IN YOUR AREA -Professional products with a completeBusiness System available to supportyou in becoming your own boss.Home-based business; Training &Support Programs. CALL TOLL-FREE1-888-696-2826. www.gomatco.com.

NETWORKING TODAY FRANCHISEOPPORTUNITY - Low start up fees.Above average returns. Unique oppor-tunity. Work from home and tap intoyour local networking community.www.NetworkingToday.com, Toll-Free1-866-924-0072.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR WORK-ING LIFE! Join a world renowned fran-chise network. Low investment. Formore information Visitwww.chemdry.ca or Call Toll-Free 1-888-CHEMDRY (1-888-243-6379).

LEGAL SERVICES

DISABILITY CLAIM DENIED?Toronto's Leading Disability Lawyerswill fight for your rights! We offer aFree Consultation for Group & PrivateDisability Claims. No Fees until weSettle. www.ShareDisabilityLaw.com.1-888-777-1109.

FOR SALE

#1 HIGH SPEED INTERNET $18.95 /Month. Absolutely no ports areblocked. Unlimited Downloading. Upto 5Mps Download and 800KbpsUpload. ORDER TODAY ATwww.acanac.ca or CALL TOLL-FREE:1-866-281-3538.

A FREE TELEPHONE SERVICE - GetYour First Month Free. Bad Credit,Don't Sweat It. No Deposits. No CreditChecks. Call Freedom Phone LinesToday Toll-Free 1-866-884-7464.

A1 A1 - FLORIDA WEST COASTWATERSIDE Condos/Homes andGolf Community. Outstanding Prices!905-629-1515.

ADD AND SAVE on home phonereconnection. Bad credit - no problem!Up to $30. off for new customers, pluslower monthly rates! Call Tembo 1-877-266-6398 or sign up onlinewww.tembo.ca.

SAWMILLS from only $3,495.00 -Convert your LOGS TO VALUABLELUMBER with your own Norwoodportable band sawmill. Log skiddersalso available. www.norwoodsawmills.ca/400t - FREE Information:1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT

HELP WANTED

CRUISE SHIP JOBS. Earn $500-$3000/week, Free Room/Board, AllExpenses Paid Lifestyle, World TravelOn Luxury Cruise Ships. Apply [email protected].

EXCITING OPPORTUNITY promotinga product that every family needs inany economy. Start part-time, workfrom home, build your business.Unlimited earning potential. No experi-ence necessary. Free-Training andSupport. Send resume to: [email protected].

REMOVE YOUR RECORD: A CRIMI-NAL Record can follow you for life.Only PARDON SERVICES CANADAhas 20 years experience.Guaranteeing record removal. Call: 1-8-NOW-PARDON (1-866-972-7366).www.RemoveYourRecord.com.

HOMES FOR SALE

REPOSSESSED PRE-FAB HOMES!!SAVE 50%+++!!! CanadaManufacturer's USA OrderCancellations. Brand New 1260SFPre-Engineered Package originally$29,950.00, LIQUIDATION$14,975.00!!! Other sizes - SACRI-FICE PRICES! GREEN-R-PANELBuilding Systems: 1-800-871-7089.SPRING/SUMMER DELIVERYAVAILABLE!

PROFESSIONAL HELP WANTED

Mountain Park Lodges - Live & Workin the CANADIAN ROCKIES! We arecurrently hiring for the SUMMER &LONG TERM positions! Guest ServiceDrivers, Servers, Bartenders,Maintenance, Front Desk Agents, TrailGuides, Ranch Manager,Housekeepers. We OFFER: NewlyRenovated Staff Accommodation!Opportunities for Advancement!Benefit Program! Contract Bonuses!Call 1-888-8JASPER ext.503. DoSomething Exciting this summer! Livein Beautiful Jasper National Park.www.mpljasper.com.

SERVICES

A CRIMINAL RECORD? Have troublegetting a job or travelling to the U.S.?We'll clear your name. BetterBusiness Bureau Certified.Pardons/Waivers Toll-Free 1-800-507-8043, www.pardongranted.ca.

CONCERNED ABOUT TRAVELLINGTO THE U.S.A.? Apply today forFREE Pardon, Waiver or Border EntryEvaluation. A criminal record can becompletely removed. Call 1-888-535-2405, www.canadianpardons.ca.

SKILLED HELP WANTED

CARPENTERS/REMODELERS$25+/hour. Canada's leading homerepair/remodeling company is seekingcarpenters, remodelers, skilledtradespeople (M/F) in major Ontariocities. Apply toll-free 1-800-884-2639or on-line www.handymanconnection.ca.

STEEL BUILDINGS

FUTURE STEEL BUILDINGSDurable, Dependable, Pre-engi-neered, All-Steel Structures. Custom-made to suit your needs and require-ments. Factory-Direct affordableprices. Call 1-800-668-8653 ext. 170for free brochure.

VACATION/TRAVEL

ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES - BookOnline at www.canadatravels.comand save more on your vacations. Usecode NCA74327 for discount or call ustoll-free at 1-800-563-5722.

ONTARIO'S PREMIER COTTAGERENTAL AGENCY offering privatelyowned waterfront cottages from basicto luxury, providing you with a true"cottage experience". All cottages fullyequipped. www.cottagevacations.com, TOLL-FREE 1-877-218-5370.

TIMESHARE FORECLOSURES --Save 60-80% off Retail! Best Resorts& Seasons! Call for FREE cataloguetoday! 1-800-496-5964. Browse hun-dreds of worldwide properties online -- www.holidaygroup.com/ocn.

INSURANCE

CLEAN DRIVING RECORD? GreyPower could save you up to $400 onyour car insurance. Call 1-877-505-0487 for no-obligation quote. Openweekends.

MORTGAGES

0$ ARE YOU SINKING IN DEBT? 1st,2nd & 3rd Mortgages - Bruised Credit- Bank Turndowns - DebtConsolidation - Refinancing - Power ofSale - Past Bankrupt - HomeRenovations. We can lend a Hand(Brokerage License # 11384).www.canadalend.com. Toll-free 1(866) i CAN LEND (1-866-422-6536)CALL NOW!

$$$ 1st, 2nd, 3rd MORTGAGES - TaxArrears, Renovations, DebtConsolidation, no CMHC fees. $50Kyou pay $208.33/month (OAC). Noincome, bad credit, power of salestopped!! BETTER OPTION MORT-GAGES, CALL 1-800-282-1169,www.mortgageontario.com (LIC#10969).

A BELOW BANK RATE, 1st and 2ndMortgages, 95% - 100% O.A.C.Financing, Debt Consolidation, Self-employed & Equity Specialists, AllCredit Types considered. CALL 1-800-225-1777, www.homeguardfunding.com, EST. 1983. LIC #10409.

AS SEEN ON TV - 1st, 2nd or HomeEquity Loan's. We don't just say"APPROVED" we mean it! Bad Credit,Self-Employed, Bankrupt, Foreclosureneed to re-finance? No problem -APPROVED! 100% Financing & 40Year Still Available. Call Toll-Free 1-877-733-4424 or www.refitoday.ca.The Refinancing Specialists!LIC#10408

PERSONALS

A CHANGE IS GOOD....finding a lifepartner can be hard, but we can makeit easy. Join Ontario's largest match-making service with thousands of peo-ple matched in 12 years. As featuredon CTV, CBC, A Channel and Rogers.CALL (519) 658-4204, www.mistyriverintros.com.

ARE YOU LOSING a loved one tosubstance abuse? Our program hasthe highest success rate. Help is onlyone phone call away! 1-877-782-7409; www.narconon.ca.

CRIMINAL RECORD? Seal it with aPARDON! Need to enter the U.S.?Get a 5 year WAIVER! Call for a freebrochure. Toll-free 1-888-9-PARDONor 905-459-9669.

DATING SERVICE. Long-Term/Short-Term Relationships, FREE CALLS! 1-877-297-9883. Exchange voice mes-sages, voice mailboxes. 1-888-534-6984. Live adult casual conversations- 1on1, 1-866-311-9640, Meet onchat-lines. Local Single Ladies 1-877-804-5381. 18+

* PAST*PRESENT*FUTURE * #1Psychics! *1-877-478-4410* Creditcards / deposit or phone 1-900-783-3800 $3.19 min (18+) For a psychicNOW! Meet us at: www.mysticalconnections.ca.

BUSINESS SERVICES

Looking for new business and addedrevenue? Promote your company inCommunity Newspapers acrossOntario right here in these NetworkClassified Ads or in business card-sized ads in hundreds of well-readnewspapers. Let us show you how.Ontario Community NewspapersAssociation, Contact Carol at 905-639-5718.

CAREER TRAINING

MARITIME DRILLING SCHOOLSentry-level training for land and off-shore oilrigs. Excellent wages, bene-fits and opportunities to travel theworld. March 30th-April 18th/09 & April27th-May 16/09. Contact: 1-866-807-3960, www.mdslimited.ca.

TRAIN FOR A NEW CAREER inMedical Transcription. Learn fromhome! Earn from home! ContactCanScribe today for a FREE informa-tion package. 1-800-466-1535,www.canscribe.com, [email protected].

EMPLOYMENT OPPS.

ARE YOU LAID OFF? GovernmentFunding Available to obtain your AZ orHeavy Equipment Certification. CallOntario Truck Driving School TodayToll-Free 1-800-799-JOBS (5627),www.otds.com.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

$500$ LOAN SERVICE, by phone, nocredit refused, quick and easy,payable over 6 or 12 installments. TollFree: 1-877-776-1660.

$$$ FREE $$$ Yourself From Debt$$$ MONEY $$$ For Any Purpose!1st, 2nd & 3rd mortgages, credit lines,secured loans. Self-employed, mort-gage or tax-arrears. DON'T PAY 1YEAR PROGRAM! Ontario-WideFinancial Corp. (LIC# 10171); Toll-Free 1-888-307-7799.

GET CASH FAST FOR YOURUNWANTED GOLD JEWELRY. Asseen on Tv. Payment in 24 hrs. Orderyour FREE secure gold sellers kittoday. No risk. We pay insurance andpostage. 100% SatisfactionGuaranteed. Call 1-866-708-1911.NationalGoldBuyers.com.

NEED MONEY? Do you have alocked in pension plan from an ex-employer (LIRA) or (LIF) 3 easy waysto help. Call: 1-866-976-7336.

FRANCHISE OPPS.

Trash is a $35 billion industry! BinThere Dump That disposal systemfranchise needs entrepreneurs! Lowentry cost, training, instant cashflow,support. John Ferracuti 1-866-615-4147 ext.25, [email protected].

Network Classifieds: Advertise Across Ontario or Across the Country!

• It’s Affordable • It’s Fast • It’s Easy • It’s Effective • One Bill Does It All • All Ontario $429 • National Packages Available! www.networkclassified.org

For more information contact

Your local newspaper

You can learn how to take better pictures.Visit http://www.grandbendphoto.com today.

http://www.GrandBendStrip.com Thursday, March 12, 2009 • 15Grand Bend Strip


Pleasant pork with potatoes & peppersPork tenderloin with a balsamic and honey reduction, served with garlic smashed potatoes and sautéed peppers

Recipes by James Eddington Eddington’s of Exeter Main Street, Exeter-- - www.eddingtons.ca

Photos by Casey Lessard

Pork tenderloinFresh garlicRosemarySea saltVegetable oilOlive oilBalsamic vinegarHoneyBeef stockRed and white winesPotatoesButter35% creamHerbsParmesan cheesePeppers

What you’ll need

Strip in the Kitchen

Pork tenderloinClean silver skin off tenderloin (see photo).Rub tenderloin with chopped rosemary,

fresh pressed garlic and sea salt.In hot oven safe pan, sear tenderloin in veg-

etable oil for about 45 seconds per side.Put tenderloin in 400° oven for 20 minutes.

Once tenderloin is cooked, let rest for another 5-10 minutes.

Tenderloin then can be sliced to desired thickness.

Note: pork tenderloin should have a hint of pink. Do not over cook!

Balsamic in honey reductionIn a small pot, add 4 oz of balsamic vinegar,

4 oz of beef stock or demi-glace (you can sub-stitute with chicken stock if necessary), and 1/2 cup of red wine. Bring to boil, then reduce to medium heat simmer. Let reduce for app 15-20 minutes.

Once reduced, add honey. Add small amounts until desired sweetness is reached.

This reduction will last one week refriger-ated and can be drizzled over sliced pork ten-derloin at time of plating.

Garlic smashed potatoesThis is a great way to use leftover potatoes,

whether baked, roasted, or boiled.In large skillet pan, use a fork to smash pre-

cooked potatoes (with skins on or off ).Over medium heat, add 2 tbsp. of butter,

1 tsp. of fresh chopped garlic, 3 oz of 35% cream, parmesan cheese and fresh chopped herbs (which ever herbs tickle your fancy – cilantro, thyme, oregano, basil, etc.) For added flavor, white wine is always a nice addition, but don’t go crazy; 2 oz is plenty.

Cook in pan until hot and liquids are cooked off and fully absorbed into potatoes.

(You can use these potatoes as a base to put your entrée on, which is doubly good because it can keep your main dish hot for a longer period of time and gives excellent height for presentation.)

Sautéed peppersUsing a mixture of red, yellow and orange

peppers, cut into medium-sized triangles, and sautée on low to medium heat with a splash of olive oil and fresh sea salt. Do not rush; let your peppers cook slowly to maximize the sweet flavors.

Photos:

Top: The f inished product with all the f ixings.Left: How to skin the silver off pork.Right: What a pepper looks like after James Eddington carves it, before chopping.

Documents

Vol. 2 #17 Grand Bend Strip, March 12, 2009