The Windsor Star’s award-winning photographers covered the city and county yesterday. Check out the gallery.

Employees at Windsor Regional Hospital Ouellette Campus take part in a free lunch in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The lunch was organized to help boost moods on what is know as Blue Monday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Employees at Windsor Regional Hospital Ouellette Campus take part in a free lunch in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The lunch was organized to help boost moods on what is know as Blue Monday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Employees listen during an announcement at the Nemak plant in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The plant is planning an expansion that will create 80 new jobs and begin shipping parts to China for a new GM product. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Ontario Finance Minister Charles Sousa (right) is joined by Mayor Drew Dilkens and Nemak technical manager Glenn Byczynski (centre) during an announcement at the Nemak plant in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The plant is planning an expansion that will create 80 new jobs and begin shipping parts to China for a new GM product. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Employees listen during an announcement at the Nemak plant in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The plant is planning an expansion that will create 80 new jobs and begin shipping parts to China for a new GM product. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Ontario Finance Minister Charles Sousa (right) is joined by Mayor Drew Dilkens and Nemak technical manager Glenn Byczynski (centre) during an announcement at the Nemak plant in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The plant is planning an expansion that will create 80 new jobs and begin shipping parts to China for a new GM product. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Ontario Finance Minister Charles Sousa is seen through an engine block during an announcement at the Nemak plant in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The plant is planning an expansion that will create 80 new jobs and begin shipping parts to China for a new GM product. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Ontario Finance Minister Charles Sousa (right) is joined by Mayor Drew Dilkens and Nemak technical manager Glenn Byczynski (centre) during an announcement at the Nemak plant in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The plant is planning an expansion that will create 80 new jobs and begin shipping parts to China for a new GM product. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Ontario Finance Minister Charles Sousa (centre) is given a tour by Nemak technical manager Glenn Byczynski (left) and operations manager Brad Boutros (right) during an announcement at the Nemak plant in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The plant is planning an expansion that will create 80 new jobs and begin shipping parts to China for a new GM product. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Ontario Finance Minister Charles Sousa (left) is given a tour by Nemak operations manager Brad Boutros (right) during an announcement at the Nemak plant in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The plant is planning an expansion that will create 80 new jobs and begin shipping parts to China for a new GM product. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Ontario Finance Minister Charles Sousa (left) is given a tour by Nemak operations manager Brad Boutros (right) during an announcement at the Nemak plant in Windsor on Monday, January 19, 2015. The plant is planning an expansion that will create 80 new jobs and begin shipping parts to China for a new GM product. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Ontario Finance Minister Charles Sousa, left, is given a tour by Nemak operations manager Brad Boutros during an announcement at the Nemak plant in Windsor on January 19, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Esports Gaming Events co-founder Shane Perron (L) and Shaun Byrne, co-founder and CEO are pictured at their office in Windsor, ON. on Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. The entrepreneurs are working on a business that host video game events. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Esports Gaming Events co-founder and CEO Shaun Byrne (L), and co-founder Shane Perron are pictured at their office in Windsor, ON. on Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. The entrepreneurs are working on a business that host video game events. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Hiram Walker & Sons and the Windsor Club announced a partnership of the Wiser’s Reception Centre on Monday, Jan. 19, 2015, in Windsor, ON. Patrick O’Driscoll, President and CEO of Hiram Walker and Sons and Federica Nazzani, president of the Windsor Club pose with a conceptual drawing of the redesigned facility. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Hiram Walker & Sons and the Windsor Club announced a partnership of the WiserÕs Reception Centre on Monday, Jan. 19, 2015, in Windsor, ON. The exterior of the centre is shown. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Lajeunesse goalie Dershawn Stewart makes a stop during a game Monday, Jan. 19, 2015, against Kennedy at the Adie Knox Arena in Windsor, ON. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Lajeunesse’s Alixe Saliba (L) pulls away from Kennedy’s Will Cecile during a game Monday, Jan. 19, 2015 at the Adie Knox Arena in Windsor, ON. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Sandra Pupatello, WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation CEO, speaks to city council during debate on the 2015 city budget, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

It was standing room only in council chambers as city council debated the 2015 city budget, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

The 2015 city budget is pictured during city council, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Dean Lapierre of Windsor Minor Hockey speaks to city council on the issue of closing the ice pad at Adie Knox while council debated the 2015 city budget, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Delegates fill the hallway outside council chambers due to overcrowding as council debated the 2015 city budget, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

It was standing room only in council chambers as city council debated the 2015 city budget, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Coun. Bill Marra speaks during debate on the 2015 city budget at city council Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Coun. John Elliott, left, Ed Sleiman, Fred Francis, and Hillary Payne listen while Sandra Pupatello, WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation CEO, speaks during a city council meeting debating the 2015 city budget, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Coun. Hillary Payne listens during debate on the 2015 city budget at city council Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

City of Windsor Treasurer Onorio Colucci speaks to members of council during debate on the 2015 city budget at city council Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

It was standing room only in council chambers as city council debated the 2015 city budget, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Sandra Pupatello, WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation CEO, speaks to city council during debate on the 2015 city budget, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Leamington District High School players celebrate a win over Herman Secondary School in girls volleyball at Herman Secondary School, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Herman’s M. Pebrovski, (#12) attempts to block a spike against Leamington District High School in girls volleyball at Herman Secondary School, Monday, Jan. 19, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

A LaSalle man is facing drug and theft charges after provincial police set up surveillance to put an end to break-ins at several schools.

Essex County OPP started investigating after thefts from St. Louis School in Leamington. The street crime unit set up surveillance at local schools.

On Jan. 13, police saw a man putting boxes into the back of his vehicle at St. Anne High School in Lakeshore. Officers arrested him and slapped him with several charges.

Some of the stolen property includes musical equipment, laptop computers, projectors and iPads. Police said the culprit returned some of the stolen items but many are still unaccounted for.

Police said they are continuing to investigate because they suspect other schools in Windsor and Essex County were targeted.

A 29-year-old LaSalle man is charged with two counts of theft over $5,000, theft under $5,000, possession of stolen property under $5,000 and drug possession. Police said they won’t release his name.

Anyone with information can call the Essex County OPP Street Crime Unit at 1-888-310-1122. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

Rui Dias is outraged over the Windsor and Essex County Health Unit’s push to make apartment buildings and multi-unit dwellings smoke-free.

“They banned smoking in cars and I respect that because it is for the young kids,” Dias said. “But banning smoking in my own home, that is just crazy. I pay the rent here — I should be able to do whatever I want.”

The Windsor and Essex County Health Unit recently passed a resolution urging landlords and associations that run market-rate rentals, social housing, condominiums and housing co-operatives to voluntarily consider going smoke-free.

“Second-hand smoke is something that is a growing concern,” said Kristy McBeth, manager of chronic disease and injury prevention at the health unit. “We’ve received a number of calls from people concerned about drifting smoke from other units. Passing this resolution is a chance to start educating people about a smoke-free policy.”

Rui Dias lights a cigarette at his apartment in Windsor on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2015.  (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Dias, 58, lives at 920 Ouelette Ave. where the majority of the apartment’s residents are smokers. He’s been smoking since he was 10 years old and has always been respectful of those who don’t.

“I don’t bother anyone with my smoking,” he said. “I just smoke in my own home. I don’t smoke in the hallways or downstairs.”

Dias doesn’t believe when he smokes its creeps into his neighbour’s unit. He points t0 the cushioning underneath the bottom of his door which he believes helps keep the smell from seeping out.

“There is no way my neighbours are getting second-hand smoke,” he said. “And besides if they moved in after me, they already knew I smoked so they can move.”

Mike Kincaid, 62, has been smoking 50 years and has no intention of stopping. He believes the initiative is ridiculous.

“They can try to tell me to do whatever they want,” he said. “But enforcing it is another story. I’ll light up wherever I want.”

Kari Schofield, public affairs manager with Windsor-Essex County Community Housing Corporation, said without strict legislation it could be difficult to make it stick. The WECCHC owns 4,708 units in the region.

“We are aware of this resolution, but at this point have not had any lengthy conversation about it,” Schofield said. “What I’m curious about is if we were to move forward on this how we would make it work. In the past, we were not able to refuse accommodations to anyone with pets or a smoker.”

Reisident Ron LeBrun, 72, quit smoking over 17 years ago after struggling to catch his breath climbing stairs. His doctor told him his lungs have no visible signs that he ever smoked.

Ron LeBrun, 72, a non-smoker who lives at 920 Ouellette Ave. in Windsor says a proposed smoking ban in multi-unit buildings would be nearly impossible to enforce. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

“I would support the building going smoke-free,” LeBrun said. “I quit smoking for my health and now sitting in my apartment I can smell the smoke. And everyone knows how bad second-hand smoke is.”

But LeBrun also points out he believes it would be almost impossible to make a smoke-free building a reality. Non-smoker Laurie Lajeunesse, 69 agrees.

“I don’t smoke and sometimes it’s like being in a room with a smoker,” she said. “But, I can’t say I agree with their plan to go smoke-free because it really does take away people rights.”

Over the past couple of years, Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge and Peterborough have been implementing smoke-free housing in their communities.

In Windsor, only 20 per cent of the population smokes but many still have to deal with smoke from neighbouring units. No matter how well a building is constructed, smoke can creep into other units though phone jacks, ventilation systems and balconies. That can be a problem for those battling heart disease, asthma, allergies, diabetes and respiratory illness.

McBeth said the decision to go smoke-free would be a voluntary policy that would be implemented by landlords. Currently most buildings are only smoke-free in exits and entrances as well as in recreational or common areas.

“It’s important that people understand going smoke-free doesn’t mean kicking out or evicting tenants that smoke,” she said. “Property owners may be hesitant to adopt this because they feel it would be difficult to implement.”

Mike Kincaid, 62, smokes a cigarette at his apartment building at 920 Ouellette Ave. in Windsor on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2015. He disagrres with a proposal to ban smoking in multi-unit buildings. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

There are various ways landlords or property owners can move toward a smoke-free building. One way is giving tenants notice their building will become smoke-free by a specific date. Other options include alerting tenants that when they renew their lease it will be smoke-free. Some may choose to grandfather existing tenants who smoke — allowing smoking in their units until they leave.

“At this point, we are just letting people know this is an option and one that can be implemented,” she said. “We are in the phase of getting information out and supporting those who are interested. Our role is to support a healthy community. Exposure to second-hand smoke is still a huge issue.”

Beginning this year, new provincial regulations made it illegal to sell tobacco on post-secondary campuses and schools. The law also prohibits smoking on all bar and restaurant patios, as well as children’s playgrounds and publicly owned sport surfaces. In addition to these changes, Windsor and surrounding municipalities also passed bylaws against smoking and tobacco use outdoors.

ksteele@windsorstar.com

The Vancouver Island Amateur Hockey Association’s decision to send a letter home recently to its members threatening to ban spectators for a weekend because of abusive behaviour directed at officials, players and coaches has found a sympathetic audience among local minor hockey officials.

“It’s a cool idea if it gets the message across,” said Anne Marie Schofield, president of the Riverside Minor Hockey Association.

“If it comes to that, you’re in a sad place.”

Schofield said so far the RMHA hasn’t had any major spectator issues to deal with this season.

“There’s always a few things, but in all my time here we’ve never been remotely close to banning spectators,” Schofield said.

Dean Lapierre, president of the Windsor Minor Hockey Association, admits changing the thinking and culture in hockey is a challenge.

Despite more than two decades in the job, he’s still amazed how entering an arena can transform personalities.

“These are professional people that act like idiots in a hockey arena and nowhere else,” Lapierre said. “They wouldn’t go into a McDonald’s and start screaming at the 15-year-old who made a mistake on their order. Yet, because it’s a kid officiating a hockey game, it’s OK to do it at the rink.”

Lapierre said the WMHA has never been desperate enough to ban spectators from rinks.

He’s pleased to report that he feels progress is being made on this front in recent seasons though travel hockey continues to produce more issues than house league.

“I’d say this is our best year for not having real problems,” Lapierre said. “We’ve had two or three issues, but they’ve been dealt with. I’d say this is our best year.”

Belle River Minor Hockey Association president Mike Kraynack said it’s not the first time he’s heard of such drastic action to combat spectator misbehaviour.

“Last year an association near Toronto did the same thing,” Kraynack said. “The referees in the area were fed up with the abuse they were getting and told the association no one would sign up for their playoff games if the parents didn’t calm down. They threatened to cancel the playoffs.”

Kraynack said so far this season things have gone very well for his association.

“We haven’t had a complaint filed with our risk management officer so far,” Kraynack said.

Dave Tremblay, Belle River’s referee-in-chief and a veteran official himself, called the Vancouver Island association’s letter an interesting idea.

“I don’t know if it’ll change much,” Tremblay said. “It might put things in perspective.”

Tremblay said it’s not just spectators who are to blame for the challenge of keeping young officials in the game.

“We’ve had a few incidents with coaches,” Tremblay said. “Coaches not leaving the rink when told or not putting their teams on the ice. It can be intimidating for a young official.”

Tremblay added troublemakers will never be completely eradicated, but it’s a lot easier for associations if self-policing parents can keep their numbers to a minimum.

The trio are encouraged that locally bad behaviour by spectators is at worst stagnant and in some cases showing some improvement.

“I think the OMHA mandating parents take an online course (Respect in Sport) if they want their kid to play has helped,” Lapierre said. “Hopefully, it’s triggered something, so that if something does arise they hold themselves back.”

Cellphones have also helped, he said.

“Everyone has a cellphone with a video,” Lapierre said. “It’s easy to capture bad behaviour and identify who it is. I think more people are mindful of that.”

dwaddell@windsorstar.com

Proponents behind the public campaign to save the obstetrics unit at Leamington District Memorial Hospital say they need to take their fight to Ontario’s health minister.

That was one of the messages from a public meeting held Tuesday evening by the Ontario Health Coalition. The forum included discussions about rural health care in general, but largely focused on the threat of shutting down birthing services at the hospital because of a lack of provincial funding.

Many of the 100 who attended supported a proposal already submitted to the health ministry for a collaborative birthing team of obstetricians, midwives, family doctors, nurses and doulas.

Sandra Dick, who represented the Save OB Leamington community group, wants to know what the government plans to do with the proposal.

“We have this fantastic plan submitted to the ministry already, but we haven’t heard anything about it since,” she said.

dspalding@windsorstar.com or on Twitter @Derek_Spalding

The Windsor Star’s award-winning photographers covered the city and county yesterday. Check out the gallery.

A woman heads for the safety of the mall as snow blankets Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

A woman heads for the safety of the mall as snow blankets Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Windsorites were out in force clearing the snow from the sidewalks as snow blankets Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Crews clear the riverfront trails as snow blankets Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Crews clear the riverfront trails as snow blankets Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Orville Lesperance who will celebrate his 100th birthday this coming Sunday is shown at the Bowlero lanes on Wed. Jan. 21, 2015, in Windsor, ON. Lesperance regularly bowls in a league. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Orville Lesperance who will celebrate his 100th birthday this coming Sunday is shown at the Bowlero lanes on Wed. Jan. 21, 2015, in Windsor, ON. Lesperance regularly bowls in a league. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

A motorist is shown on a snow covered Concession Rd. 9 in Tecumseh, ON. on Wed. Jan. 21, 2015. Steady snow made driving conditions challenging. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star) cruiser

An Ontario Provincial Police officer blocks the eastbound lane of county Rd. 42 at Manning Rd. on Wed. Jan. 21, 2015, due to a multi-vehicle accident. Local police were busy with numerous accident due to a early morning snowfall. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Windsor Police detectives canvas the neighbourhood around 1564 Benjamin Avenue in relation to a murder that took place at the home a month ago in Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Sgt. Matthew D’Asti speaks with the media as Windsor Police detectives canvas the neighbourhood around Benjamin Avenue in relation to a murder that took place in the area a month ago in Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Windsor Police detectives canvas the neighbourhood around Benjamin Avenue in relation to a murder that took place in the area a month ago in Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Windsor Police detectives canvas the neighbourhood around Benjamin Avenue in relation to a murder that took place in the area a month ago in Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Windsor Police detectives canvas the neighbourhood around Benjamin Avenue in relation to a murder that took place in the area a month ago in Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Sgt. Matthew D’Asti speaks with the media as Windsor Police detectives canvas the neighbourhood around Benjamin Avenue in relation to a murder that took place in the area a month ago in Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Local Shoppers Drug Mart representatives Mike Sawyer, Ziad Eltoum, Intekhab Alam and Richard Morel present Carmen Novosel, Jon Jewell and Linda Menard -Wah (left to right) from the VON with a cheque for $33,843 in Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. The money will go to fund programs at the VON. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Federal Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau (right) meets with Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens at city hall in Windsor on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Former Windsor Star columnist Marty Gervais and current University of Windsor professor speaks in the Windsor Star News Cafe on Wed. Jan. 21, 2015, regarding a project his student are taking on. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Mayor Drew Dilkens (L) and former Windsor Star columnist Marty Gervais and current University of Windsor professor are shown in the Windsor Star News Cafe on Wed. Jan. 21, 2015, at a media conference regarding a project students are taking on. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Liberal leader Justin Trudeau is greeted by hundreds of supporters as he takes to the stage at Ciociaro Club of Windsor where he was introduced by Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara January 21, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Liberal leader Justin Trudeau speaks to hundreds of supporters on stage at Ciociaro Club of Windsor where he was introduced by Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara January 21, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Liberal leader Justin Trudeau steps to the podium at Ciociaro Club of Windsor where he was introduced by Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara January 21, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Liberal leader Justin Trudeau is greeted by enthusiastic supporters at Ciociaro Club of Windsor where he was introduced by Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara January 21, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens, right, watches play between the Windsor Express and the Halifax Rainmen at Caesars Windsor Wednesday. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Windsor Express Quinnel Brown, left, knocks over Halifax Rainmen Forrest Fisher in first quarter of NBL of Canada at The Colosseum Caesars Windsor January 21, 2015. Brown drew a charge foul on the play. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Windsor Express Kevin Loiselle, left, drives against Halifax Rainmen Seiya Ando in first quarter of NBL of Canada action at The Colosseum Caesars Windsor January 21, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Windsor Express head coach Bill Jones, left, sends instructions to his team in game against Halifax Rainmen in NBL of Canada action at The Colosseum Caesars Windsor January 21, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Windsor Express Ryan Anderson, left, drives against Halifax Rainmen Chris Cayole in first quarter of NBL of Canada league action at The Colosseum Caesars Windsor January 21, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

A crash between a school bus and minivan is slowing traffic in LaSalle Wednesday morning.

LaSalle police said the crash happened near Front and Malden roads.

There are no reported injuries.

Motorists are asked to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles.

More to come.

Two women were taken to hospital with serious injuries Wednesday after the driver lost control on icy, snow-covered roads and slammed into a tree.

Essex County OPP said the crash on County Road 42 was one of many across the county as an intense snow storm wreaked havoc on the roads.

Police said a 37-year-old Chatham woman was driving west near Elmstead Road in Lakeshore when she lost control and collided with the tree. The driver and her passenger were both trapped in the vehicle. Lakeshore firefighters used the Jaws of Life to free them. Police said both women suffered serious but non-life threatening injuries.

Police also responded to a crash between a school bus and minivan on Front Road near Malden Road in LaSalle. There were no injuries reported in that crash.

Windsor police dealt with nearly 30 crashes throughout the day, many of which involved people being injured. Before the flurries even started to fall, Windsor police closed the westbound lanes of E.C. Row near Central Avenue for a crash.

The westbound lanes were closed shortly after 5 a.m. and remained closed for about an hour.

Police were reminding motorists to “stay alert, slow down and stay in control.”

A motorist is shown on a snow covered Concession Rd. 9 in Tecumseh, ON. on Wed. Jan. 21, 2015. Steady snow made driving conditions challenging. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Check out this week’s ACWR ArtsNotes – Your weekly guide to the arts in Windsor and Essex County.

BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD @ Artspeak Gallery

Through Jan. 23 @ 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

“Back to the Drawing Board” is a two-week long artistic think tank open to the public that focuses on creative development and communication within the arts community in the Windsor and Essex region. It is geared towards artists and arts organizations of all disciplines …MORE

ASK A WORKING ARTIST: QUESTION SESSION @ Artspeak Gallery

Wednesday, Jan. 21 @ 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Do you have questions about your arts field? It might be helpful to ask someone who works every day in your dream job. We’ve brought together working artists from the visual arts, music, literary arts, dance, and theatre who are available to answer your questions …MORE

BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD: COMMUNITY DISCUSSION @ Artspeak Gallery

Friday, Jan. 23 @ 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

As the culmination of the two-week artistic think tank “Back to the Drawing Board”, the Arts Council of Windsor & Region invite you to join us for an evening of community discussion. The discussion will be guided by content which was presented in ACWR’s survey …MORE

ROSES FOR WINDSOR @ One Ten Park: A Working Space

Call for Submissions!

ROSES for WINDSOR 2015! We are doing it again. Email: Susan Gold or Collette Broeders to receive an original 2015 Rose for Windsor or feel free to download the image from out website link to manipulate, participate and post back …MORE

IT’S AN HONOUR TRAVELLING EXHIBITION @ Various Locations Through-out Windsor-Essex County

Exhibition runs through Jan. 30

The communities in and around Windsor-Essex are invited to visit It’s An Honour!, a new travelling exhibit about the Canadian Honours System that is now making its way across the country …MORE

WRITERS SALON II @ Kingsville Public Library

1st and 3rd Wednesdays @ 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m.

Begins Wednesday, Jan. 21

An opportunity for both established and aspiring writers to meet and share their work in a free, productive workshop setting under the guidance of Windsor writer Paul Vasey.Writers will gain knowledge of how to improve their work …MORE

A TRIBUTE TO WINDSOR OPERA SOPRANO EMILIA CUNDARI @ Caboto Club    

Friday, Jan. 23 @ 6 p.m.-10 p.m.

Opera arias will be sung by sopranos Tara Sievers-Hunt and Jocelyn Zelasko accompanied by Mary Siciliano at the piano, and instrumental music by Italian opera composers will be performed by a String Quartet …MORE

OPEN STUDIO @ Artspace Essex

Saturday, Jan. 24 @ 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Bring your art and craft projects to work on, your supplies and lunch. Come out for a day of being creative! …MORE

BEAT NIGHT  @ Downtown Espresso Cafe

Saturday, Jan. 24 @ 7 p.m.

An open mic evening of original poetry, story telling and music by local authors and musicians.  Please join Mudpuppy Gallery for a great evening! $3 cover charge per person …MORE

BOW AND BRUSH @ Capitol Theatre

Sunday, Jan. 25 @ 4 p.m.-6 p.m.

Ontario artist Vaughn Beneteau and French artist Nadine Marais, a duo known as “Les Malfaiteurs”, will show you what happens when the brushes meet the bows! Vaughn and Nadine will join musicians from the Windsor Symphony Orchestra to create together a unique piece of combined arts …MORE

WINDSOR ART EXPERIENCE @ Walkerville Artists’ Co-op

Thursdays @ 6 p.m.

Private Classes: Fridays @ 7 p.m.

Suellen Evoy-Oozeer and Lindsay Whalen have developed a unique standing process painting and creation workshop aimed to break down creative barriers. Workshop participants can expect to focus on the process of engaging …MORE

MUSIC CLASSES @ South Windsor School of Music

Registration now open!

Stop in at South Windsor School of Music to register now for February lessons. We provide students of all ages with the skills they need to enjoy music for a lifetime! …MORE

MUDPUPPY GALLERY YOUTH ART CLASSES @ House of Shalom    

Wednesdays @ 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Classes start: Wednesday, Jan. 21

The next session of Mudpuppy Youth Art Classes will run Jan 21-Mar. 11, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at the House of Shalom in Amherstburg. Ages 5-13 welcome. Contact the gallery for more information …MORE

SWEENEY TODD @ The KordaZone Theatre    

Show runs Jan. 29-Feb. 14

The season begins with Stephen Sondheim’s gruesome, triple Tony Award winning musical, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Blood flows and crusts rise as a vengeful mad barber and his practical but ghoulish mistress slash throats and bake pies in the slums of 19th century London …MORE

WINTER 2015 EXHIBITIONS OPENING RECEPTION @ Art Gallery of Windsor    

Friday, Jan. 30 @ 7 p.m.-11 p.m.

Fridays Live! is an energetic series of exhibition receptions. Enjoy live music, chatting with artists and curators, a cash bar and studio activities for the family. Docents are on hand to accommodate questions …MORE

CURRENT AND ONGOING @ THE GALLERIES

ART GALLERY OF WINDSOR – Winter 2015 Exhibitions run Jan. 24-May 10. Opening reception: Friday, Jan. 30 @ 7 p.m. …details

Larry Towell: Selections from the AGW Collection – Jan. 24-May 30. Black and white photos from the Canadian photographer span three decades and move from Nicaragua, Guatemala and El Salvador to Palestine – all images of survivors of the traumas of their disappeared children and family members – as they carry on with their daily lives.

ARTCITE INC. - Soft Tissue | Bevan Ramsay. Exhibition runs to Feb. 21 …details

ARTSPEAK GALLERY – Back to the Drawing Board. Exhibition runs to Jan. 23. Discussion night: Friday, Jan. 23 @ 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. …details

GIBSON GALLERY – Closed until March 2015

LEAMINGTON ARTS CENTRE - Anything’s Possible | 2015 Photo Contest. Exhibition runs to Feb. 1 …details

MUDPUPPY GALLERY – Aspiring Artists Showcase | Youth Aged 8 to 18. Exhibition runs to Feb. 1 …details

UPCOMING CALLS, AUDITIONS & JOBS

ARTS COUNCIL WINDSOR AND REGION  – http://bit.ly/1ujXVBA – Call for applications: Youth Arts Collective | Deadline: Feb. 25 …details

COMMUNITY PUBLIC ART ADVISORY COMMITTEE – Call for Applications for Committee positions | Deadline: Friday, Jan. 30 @ 4:30 p.m. …details

COMMUNITY UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP – Call for Donated Art Supplies for Community Mural Project …details

THE GALLERY AT VISIONS OF CANADA – Call for Solo Artists | Deadline: ASAP …details

GIBSON GALLERY – Call for Exhibition Submissions 2016 season …details

MUDPUPPY GALLERY – Call for Submissions: Against the Grain Exhibition | Deadline: Sunday, Feb. 1 …details

ONE TEN PARK: A WORKING SPACE – Call for submissions: Roses for Windsor International Mail Art | Deadline: ASAP …details

RISE ASSET DEVELOPMENT – Call for Applications: Youth Small Business Program | Deadline: Jan. 2015 …details

WALKERVILLE ARTIST Co-Op – Attention Local Musicians and Published Authors – sell your books and CDs at Walkerville Artist Co-Op  …details

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Arts Council Windsor & Region

1942 Wyandotte St. E. | 519.252.ARTS

Read more about the arts in our area – check out the Arts Council Windsor and Region (ACWR) at www.acwr.net.

Submitting to Arts Notes? Would you like your arts-related event, exhibition, performance, concert to appear in Arts Notes/Community Calendar? SUBMIT YOUR EVENT through our Community Calendar by Monday 5 p.m.

THURSDAY, JAN. 22

VICTORIA TAVERN – 400 Chilver Rd. – 519-254-1535

Presents – Soul Minors hosting ‘The Jam’

DOMINION HOUSE – 3140 Sandwich St. – 519-971-7400

Presents – Josh Braiden

O’MAGGIO’S KILDARE HOUSE – 1880 Wyandotte St. – 519-915-1066

Presents – Jamie Reaume

THE WILLISTEAD RESTAURANT – 1840 Wyandotte St. – 519-253-8226

Presents – Greg Cox

ROCK BOTTOM – 3236 Sandwich St. – 519-258-7553

Presents – Jake

ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION 143 – 1570 Marentette St. – 519-252-1024

Presents – Rick Rock @ 3 p.m.

CHANOSO’S – 255 Ouellette Ave. – 519-254-8530

Presents – Adam Mailloux @ 6 p.m.

FRIDAY, JAN. 23

DOMINION HOUSE – 3140 Sandwich St. – 519-971-7400

Presents – Blacktop Records Showcase

TWIGG’S – 1207 County Rd. 22 (Emeryville) – 519-727-8704

Presents – Chris McLean

CAESARS WINDSOR – Cosmos Lounge

Presents – Stiletto Fire

CAESARS WINDSOR – ELYX Lounge

Presents – Take Two

O’MAGGIO’S KILDARE HOUSE – 1880 Wyandotte St. – 519-915-1066

Presents – Mark Chichkan

ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION 143 – 1570 Marentette St. – 519-252-1024

Presents – Chapter Three

ROCK BOTTOM – 3236 Sandwich St. – 519-258-7553

Presents – Joseph Anthony

CLUB ALOUETTE – 2418 Central Ave. – 519-945-1189

Presents – The Formula

AVERAGE JOE’S – 1286 Lauzon Rd. – 519-948-1589

Presents – Fabulous Soul Shakers

CHANOSO’S – 255 Ouellette Ave. – 519-254-8530

Presents – Cal Cuffaro @ 6:30 p.m.

LA RUCOLA – 1614 Lesperance Rd. – 519-817-6464

Presents – Allesandro Rotondi

GOOD TIME CHARLY’S – 4715 Tecumseh Rd. – 519-948-0600

Presents – Mister Please

LIONS HEAD – 7880 Wyandotte St. – 519-945-4773

Presents – The Smokin’ Purple Monkey Gang

CITY HALL SQUARE – Downtown

Presents – An Evening of Jazz – All Saints – opens @ 7:30 p.m. – Tickets $5-$15

JOHNNY SHOTZ – 13037 Tecumseh Rd. E. – 519-735-7005

Presents – Bigg Wiggle

SATURDAY, JAN. 24

DOMINION HOUSE – 3140 Sandwich St. – 519-971-7400

Presents – Days Fade EP Release

SHOOTER’S ROADHOUSE – 17 Sandwich St. N. (A’burg) – 519-736-7878

Presents – Twisted Sisters

O’MAGGIO’S KILDARE HOUSE – 1880 Wyandotte St. – 519-915-1066

Presents – Josh Johnson & Aaron F @ 10 p.m.

CAESARS WINDSOR – Cosmos Lounge

Presents – Bluetonium R & B

CAESARS WINDSOR – ELYX Lounge

Presents – JucBox

WINDSOR MOOSE LODGE 1499 – 777 Tecumseh Rd. – 519-253-1834

Presents – East Side Boys @ 8:30 p.m.

ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION 143 – 1570 Marentette St. – 519-252-1024

Presents – Chapter Three

CLUB ALOUETTE – 2418 Central Ave. – 519-945-1189

Presents – The Formula

AVERAGE JOE’S – 1286 Lauzon Rd. – 519-948-1589

Presents – Fabulous Soul Shakers

LILLY KAZZILLY’S – 9550 Riverside Dr. – 519-944-8332

Presents – Stiletto Fire

PLAYER’S CLUB – 1530 Langlois Ave. – 519-256-6202

Presents – Guitar Army

LA RUCOLA – 1614 Lesperance Ave. – 519-817-6464

Presents – Allesandro Rotondi

GOOD TIME CHARLY’S – 4715 Tecumseh Rd. – 519-948-0600

Presents – Mister Please

LIONS HEAD – 7880 Wyandotte St. – 519-945-4773

Presents – The Smokin’ Purple Monkey Gang

WINDSOR BEER EXCHANGE – 493 University Ave. – 226-674-1212

Presents – James OL & The Villains with Better Weather and Of The Pack

ROCK BOTTOM – 3236 Sandwich St. – 519-258-7553

Presents – Chris McLean

SUNDAY, JAN. 25

THE HUNGARIAN CLUB – 790 Hanna St. – 519-791-7331

Presents – Gino’s Market Band @ 7 p.m. – $5

WINDSOR MOOSE LODGE 1499 – 777 Tecumseh Rd. – 519-253-1834

Presents – All Star Country and Open Mic @ 3 p.m.

DOMINION HOUSE – 3140 Sandwich St. – 519-971-7400

Presents – Vice Aerial

WEEKLY

MONDAY

Mark Crampsie @ O’Maggio’s Kildare House

TUESDAY

Ted (Lamont) Tuesdays @ O’Maggio’s Kildare House

Open Stage with Andrew & Leigh @ The Dominion House

WEDNESDAY

Seniors Dance @ The Moose Lodge with C2C Entertainment @ 3 p.m.

Chris Bolister @ O’Maggio’s Kildare House

Dave Russell @ The Dominion House

_______________________________________________________________________________

Compiled by: Tracy Greenwood-Bennett

Email your weekly band listings, venues and gigs to: tracy.starbands@yahoo.ca

Don’t forget to send me your listings – I will now be accepting January to December 2015 dates. One email is all it takes. Also, send me any weekly open mic nights or your regular weekly shows – I will be rewriting that portion of the listings. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Ontario Provincial Police have arrested a man suspected of a bank robbery in Kingsville.

Kingsville OPP said the man entered the CIBC at Main Street and Division Road around 10 a.m. Wednesday.

The man handed the clerk a note demanding money. The clerk complied and handed over an undisclosed amount of cash.

The man then fled on foot, heading north on Division.

Police said no weapon was observed.

Officers flooded Kingsville’s downtown and located the suspect.

The investigation is ongoing.

A surveillance photo of a suspected wanted in connection to a robbery at CIBC bank in Kingsville on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2015. (HANDOUT/The Windsor Star)

A surveillance photo of a suspected wanted in connection to a robbery at CIBC bank in Kingsville on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2015. (HANDOUT/The Windsor Star)

County councillors declined to consider the Wednesday with most agreeing the province needs to take the lead in strengthening its legislation.

Representatives from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit asked council to pass a bylaw that would provide consistent rules across the county.

WECHU health promotion specialist Eric Nadalin said a “clear, consistent regional approach” would reduce confusion for smokers as they travelled from municipality to municipality as well as demonstrate leadership on the issue.

But councillors said it was the province that should show leadership on what they consider a provincial matter.

“The Smoke-Free Ontario Act is applied evenly to all of us and that’s enough,” Leamington Mayor John Paterson said of current legislation that restricts outdoor smoking within 20 metres of playgrounds and sports fields.

“As municipal leaders we need to badger the province for stronger legislation and to reduce confusion between municipalities,” said Essex Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche.

Essex Mayor Ron McDermott questioned how WECHU’s four tobacco enforcement officers could provide enforcement across the county.

Four Essex County municipalities — Leamington, Lakeshore, Essex and Tecumseh  — have implemented various restrictions against smoking in outdoor places, specifically at public parks, recreational facilities and sports fields.

As of Jan. 1, the Smoke-Free Ontario Act banned smoking on and around children’s playgrounds and publicly owned sport fields and surfaces such as ice rinks or tennis courts or municipally owned splash pads or swimming pools. Smoking is also banned on all bar and restaurant patios, with an exemption for Royal Canadian Legions, and it will be illegal to sell tobacco on university and college campuses.

jkotsis@windsorstar.com

The Windsor Star’s award-winning photographers covered the city and county yesterday. Check out the gallery.

Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau speaks to Windsor Star reporter Craig Pearson at his hotel room at Caesars Windsor in Windsor, Ont. on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015. (DYLAN KRISTY/The Windsor Star)

Asia Osman (left) gets a hand from Karen Lukic with downloading an app during the kickoff for the new WYNI app at the EPICentre at the University of Windsor in Windsor on Thursday, January 22, 2015. The app is designed to help breastfeeding moms. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Asia Osman (left) gets a hand from Karen Lukic with downloading an app during the kickoff for the new WYNI app at the EPICentre at the University of Windsor in Windsor on Thursday, January 22, 2015. The app is designed to help breastfeeding moms. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Debbie Silvester (left) and Mary Louise Drake speak during the kickoff for the new WYNI app at the EPICentre at the University of Windsor in Windsor on Thursday, January 22, 2015. The app is designed to help breastfeeding moms. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Debbie Silvester speaks during the kickoff for the new WYNI app at the EPICentre at the University of Windsor in Windsor on Thursday, January 22, 2015. The app is designed to help breastfeeding moms. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Dr. Ven Tandan, president of the Ontario Medical Association, speaks with the Windsor Star editorial board in Windsor on Thursday, January 22, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Dr. Charles Nicholas Rathe leaves the Superior Court of Justice in Windsor on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Michelle Timothy leaves the Superior Court of Justice in Windsor, ON. on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015. She is a witness in the Dr. Charles Nicholas Rathe trial. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star) (

Ron Weiler, new car manager at Motor City Chrysler in Windsor, is seen with rows of minivans at the dealership on Thursday, January 22, 2015. Motor City is stocking up on Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans in preparation for the upcoming shut down at Windsor Assembly Plant. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Members from the LaSalle Vipers hockey team went head-to-head in a floor hockey match with students from the Giles Campus French Immersion Public School in Windsor, ON. on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015. It was a fundraising event for the Hospice of Windsor. Student James Reitz, 5, gives Viper player Brendan Harrogate a fist bump during the event. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Nicolas Crescenzi of the LaSalle Vipers takes a shot during a floor hockey game against students from the Giles Campus French Immersion Public School Thursday in Windsor.(DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Members from the LaSalle Vipers hockey team went head-to-head in a floor hockey match with students from the Giles Campus French Immersion Public School in Windsor, ON. on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015. It was a fundraising event for the Hospice of Windsor. Student cheer on their team during the event. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

The University of Windsor’s Alex Campbell, left, and Rotimi Osuntola Jr. battle for a rebound at the St. Denis Centre Thursday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

The University of Windsor Lancers Tyler Persaud and Khalid Abdel-Gabar (right) practice at the St. Denis Centre in Windsor on Thursday, January 22, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

The University of Windsor Lancers head coach Chris Oliver runs a practice at the St. Denis Centre in Windsor on Thursday, January 22, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

The University of Windsor Lancers Rotimi Osuntola Jr. and Marko Kovac (right) practice at the St. Denis Centre in Windsor on Thursday, January 22, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

The University of Windsor Lancers Rotimi Osuntola Jr. and Mike Rocca (right) practice at the St. Denis Centre in Windsor on Thursday, January 22, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

The University of Windsor Lancers Stefan Tosic practices at the St. Denis Centre in Windsor on Thursday, January 22, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Unifor Local 444 members and area residents unload a truckload of donated packaged food items at Street Help Homeless Centre on Wyandotte Avenue East near Langlois Avenue Thursday January 22, 2015. An informational rally was held to bring awareness to issues involving homelessness, limited availability of housing and family violence. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Unifor Local 444 members and area residents volunteer at Street Help Homeless Centre on Wyandotte Avenue East near Langlois Avenue Thursday January 22, 2015. An informational rally was held to bring awareness to issues involving homelessness, limited availability of housing and family violence. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Unifor Local 444 members and area residents volunteer to unload a truckload of donated packaged food items at Street Help Homeless Centre on Wyandotte Avenue East Thursday January 22, 2015. An informational rally was held to bring awareness to issues involving homelessness, limited availability of housing and family violence. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Flyers Matthew Opblinger, left, against St. Thomas Stars Blair Mincer in Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League action from Heinz Arena in Leamington, January 22, 2015. Tyler Duarte scored in overtime, Leamington won, 4-3. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Flyers Chris Scott skates into the slot against St. Thomas Stars Carson Moniz in Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League action from Heinz Arena in Leamington, January 22, 2015. Tyler Duarte scored in overtime, Leamington won, 4-3. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Flyers Matthew Opblinger, left, tangles with St. Thomas Stars Ryan Valentini in Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League action from Heinz Arena in Leamington, January 22, 2015. Tyler Duarte scored in overtime, Leamington won, 4-3. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Flyers Tyler Duarte, lefts skates away from St. Thomas Stars Carson Kennes in in Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League action from Heinz Arena in Leamington, January 22, 2015. Duarte scored in overtime, Leamington won, 4-3. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Flyers Mitchell Amonte, right, skates against St. Thomas Stars n Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League action from Heinz Arena in Leamington, January 22, 2015. Tyler Duarte scored in overtime, Leamington won, 4-3. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

The University of Windsor men’s basketball team picked up their biggest win of the season Friday, beating the four-time defending champion and No. 2-ranked Carleton Ravens 74-71 at the St. Denis Centre.
Rotimi Osuntola had 22 points and 16 rebounds while Khalid Abdel-Gabar added 18 and Mitch Farrell 16.
The Lancers held the Ravens to 37.9 per cent shooting from the floor while knocking down 41.7 per cent of their own shots. Windsor outrebounded Carleton 50-35.
The Lancers will host No.1 Ottawa Gees-Gees on Saturday at 8 p.m.
The women’s team rebounded from their first loss of the season last Saturday to beat the Carleton Ravens 62-48 Friday night at the St. Denis Centre.
Korissa Williams scored 19 points and added 10 rebounds while Jocelyn LaRocque had 12 points. The Lancers shot 35 per cent from the floor but connected on 89 per cent of their free throws.
The Lancers host Ottawa Saturday at 6 p.m.

Lancers hockey

The University of Windsor men’s hockey team edged Brock Friday night with a 2-1 win in St. Catharines.
Drew Palmer and Dylan Denomme scored while Parker Van Buskirk stopped 26 shots.
The Lancers play in Laurier Saturday night. Game time is at 7:30 p.m.

Hickey scores

For the second straight game, Windsor’s Brett Hickey scored a hat trick as the Toronto Rock remained unbeaten with a 13-11 win over Buffalo in NLL action.
Hickey had goals in the second and third quarters and then got his third goal 1:20 into the fourth. In three games for the Rock, Hickey has seven goals and four assists.

Junior B

The LaSalle Vipers beat the St. Marys Lincolns 6-1 in the second game of a home-and-home.
Daniel Beaudoin, Graham Pickard, Connor Rosaasen, Brett Primeau, Brendan Harrogate and Korey Morgan all scored for the Vipers (23-17). Paolo Battisti got the win in goal after making 19 saves.
LaSalle beat St. Marys 3-1 Wednesday at the Vollmer Centre.

Junior C

The Lakeshore Canadiens (23-13-0-3) cruised to an 8-2 win over last place Wallaceburg at Lakeshore MURF.
Nick Tavolieri-Essex and Sebastian Kanally each scored twice. Nick Goran, Cameron MacDougall, Mejoe Gasparovic and Luke Sanko all scored, while Colin Tetreault made 24 saves.
Also Friday, Amherstburg (25-11-1-1) fell 5-4 to Alvinston in overtime on the road.
Josh Moore scored the winner at 3:15 of overtime after Mark Gangnon had scored the game-tying goal for the Admirals with two seconds left in regulation.
Cole Martyniuk, Cody Leeming and Chad Copeland also scored for Amherstburg. Donato Gianfranco made 27 saves.

Saints basketball

The Saints women’s basketball team lost 77-55 Friday night at the SportsPlex to the OCAA league-leading Mohawk Mountaineers.
The loss snapped a three-game winning streak for the Saints (6-5), who sit fifth in the West Division.
The men’s team at St. Clair also lost to Mohawk Friday 93-75.
Both teams are in action again Saturday at the SportsPlex against Redeemer. The women play at 1 p.m., while the men tip off at 3 p.m.

Lancers volleyball

The Lancers women’s volleyball team lost their fourth straight game Friday as they fell 3-0 to Waterloo by scores of 25-17, 25-19 and 25-21.
The men’s team lost in five sets to Waterloo 25-15, 22-25, 25-17, 22-25, 15-7.
The Lancers are in action Saturday when they travel to Guelph to take on Gryphon’s. The women play at 6 p.m. followed by the men at 8 p.m.

Watson on roster

Kingsville’s Corbin Watson has been named to Canada’s roster for the World Sledge Hockey Challenge.
The tournament takes place in Leduc, Alta., from Feb. 1 -7.
Canada is the defending champion after beating the United States 3-1 in December 2013 in Toronto. Watson was the winning goaltender in the final after making 12 saves.
Watson was also a member of Canada’s bronze-medal winning squad at the 2014 Paralympics in Sochi, Russia.

Houbtchev picks St. Lawrence

Windsor’s Stefan Houbtchev has committed to St. Lawrence University after being offered a squash scholarship.
Houbtchev chose the Saints because they are currently ranked the No. 1 team in the NCAA and due to the school’s psychology program.
The roster currently has four Canadians on the team including Toronto’s Lockie Munro, who Houbtchev said played a big roll in recruiting him to the Saints.
“He told me that the school is great and the team is great and that they just have a solid team right now,” Houbtchev said. Houbtchev, who isn’t on a full ride but will receive a $100,000 grant, also had an offer from Harvard but turned it down.
“I just had a better chance of making it to St. Lawrence as well as playing on their starting nine right away,” Houbtchev said. “They told me from the beginning I probably wouldn’t play until my sophomore year at Harvard and I didn’t want to do that.”

Express matchup

The Windsor Express will look to make it three straight wins Saturday when they visit Mississauga to take on the Power.
The Express (15-7) top the Central Division and are tied with the Island Storm for the best record in the NBL. Mississauga (6-14) is last in the Central Division.
In four matchups with the Power this season, the Express are 3-1. Mississauga’s Omar Strong is second in the NBL in scoring averaging 19.4 points per game while Windsor’s Quinnel Brown is averaging 18.5 PPG, good for fourth.

Szpak joins Selects

Strength and conditioning coach Patrick Szpak has joined the Windsor Selects to conduct the team’s winter workout sessions.
Szpak, who is a Windsor native, works for the Toronto Blue Jays. He will stay with the team until he reports to Dunedin for spring training in February.
“It’s really important that the kids have a regimented offseason program for strength conditioning and discipline,” Selects program co-ordinator Richard Solomon said. “We feel that the results are going to show as the season progresses as the strength and conditioning they put in over the winter months will be rewarded during the summer.”

Aliu signs

Former Windsor Spitfire Akim Aliu has signed with the Bakersfield Condors of the East Coast Hockey League.
Aliu played 10 games with the Rochester Americans of the AHL earlier this year registering four points (three goals) and 51 penalty minutes.
Aliu, 25, has appeared in seven NHL games, all with the Calgary Flames.

Attenborough qualifies

Windsor’s Gwynne Attenborough has qualified for Saturday’s Red Bull Crashed Ice final in Niagara Falls.
Attenborough finished ninth in qualifying.

Local ace

Dick Wilhelm used a pitching wedge to ace the 95-yard, 12th hole at Deer Creek Country Club in Davenport, Fla.
Witnesses were Ken Fletcher, Nancy Packard and Gennie Krebs.

Martial arts

Local fighter Tony Laramie won his first amateur mixed martial arts bout on the weekend at McMorran Arena in Port Huron, Mich.
The 16-year-old defeated Kyle Brockett (2-0) of Port Huron by submission in the first round.

Lachance perfect

Logan Lachance, 9, had a perfect 180 during league play in the Windsor Area Youth Dart League on Saturday.
The youth dart league is run out of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 12 on Brant Street.

Scoring for a cause

Six University of Windsor Lancers teams will compete at home Saturday while promoting Breast Cancer Awareness Day with T-shirts, prizes and a ceremony before each of the women’s games.
At the St. Denis Centre, the Lancers men’s volleyball team will start things off with a game against RMC at 1 p.m. with the Lancers women taking on Brock at 3 p.m.
The Lancers women’s and men’s basketball team will play against York at 6 and 8 p.m.
At South Windsor Arena, the Lancers women’s hockey team hosts Toronto and the Lancers men play York at 4 and 7:30 p.m.
The breast cancer T-shirts will be available at all events for $10 and Shoot for the Cure tote/grocery bags will be available for $3.
All proceeds will go to supporting the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation through the CIS Shoot for the Cure Initiative.

The Star’s award-winning photographers covered the city and county on Friday, Jan. 23, 2015. Check out the photo gallery.

Emergency service personnel work to free the driver of a truck that rolled over after clipping a minivan and crashed through a power pole before coming to a rest on Cameron Aveune in Windsor on Friday, January 23, 2015. BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Emergency service personnel work to free the driver of a truck that rolled over after clipping a minivan and crashed through a power pole before coming to a rest on Cameron Aveune in Windsor on Friday, January 23, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Emergency service personnel work to free the driver of a truck that rolled over after clipping a minivan and crashed through a power pole before coming to a rest on Cameron Aveune in Windsor on Friday, January 23, 2015. T (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Emergency service personnel work to free the driver of a truck that rolled over after clipping a minivan and crashed through a power pole before coming to a rest on Cameron Aveune in Windsor on Friday, January 23, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

A firefighter removes a brace from a truck that rolled over after clipping a minivan and crashed through a power pole before coming to a rest on Cameron Aveune in Windsor on Friday, January 23, 2015. The driver was transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

A truck lays on it’s side after clipping a minivan and crashing through a power pole before coming to a rest on Cameron Aveune in Windsor on Friday, January 23, 2015. The driver was transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

A truck lays on it’s side after clipping a minivan and crashing through a power pole before coming to a rest on Cameron Aveune in Windsor on Friday, January 23, 2015. The driver was transported to hospital with none-Life threatening injuries. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Emergency service personnel work to free the driver of a truck that rolled over after clipping a minivan and crashed through a power pole before coming to a rest on Cameron Aveune in Windsor on Friday, January 23, 2015. The driver was transported to hospital with none-life threatening injuries. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

A firefighter walks away from a truck that rolled over after clipping a minivan and crashed through a power pole before coming to a rest on Cameron Aveune in Windsor on Friday, January 23, 2015. The driver was transported to hospital with non-Life threatening injuries. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

MP Hedy Fry sits down with local community leaders at Windsor Pride to discuss issues facing the LGBT community in Windsor on Friday, January 23, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Graffiti consisting of hateful language is covered with yellow paint in the parking lot of St. Anne Catholic High School in Lakeshore, Friday, Jan. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Kevin Kimmerly, owner of Kimmerly Painting Services, removes hateful graffiti from the parking lot of St. Anne Catholic High School in Lakeshore, Friday, Jan. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Haithem Zaya, owner of Fred’s Variety Spot on Westminster Blvd. in Windsor, ON. is shown at the store on Friday, Jan. 23, 2015. A woman robbed the store carrying an axe on Thursday. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Haithem Zaya, owner of Fred’s Variety Spot on Westminster Blvd. in Windsor, ON. is shown at the store on Friday, Jan. 23, 2015. A woman robbed the store carrying an axe on Thursday. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Haithem Zaya, owner of Fred’s Variety Spot on Westminster Blvd. in Windsor, ON. is shown at the store on Friday, Jan. 23, 2015. A woman robbed the store carrying an axe on Thursday. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Former Tecumseh Deputy Mayor Cheryl Hardcastle announced Friday, January 23, 2015, she wants to run as an NDP candidate in the next federal election. She is shown in front of the Tecumseh municipal office. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Former Tecumseh Deputy Mayor Cheryl Hardcastle announced Friday, January 23, 2015, she wants to run as an NDP candidate in the next federal election. She is shown in front of the Tecumseh municipal office. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Marc Sayer of Beach Grove rink makes a shot against Roseland in opening draw action of the 51st annual Beach Grove President’s Cup Friday January 23, 2015. Play continues Saturday and Sunday. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Roseland skip Tony Trojansek, centre, releases the rock as Jordan Way, left, and Andrew Ferguson sweep in game against Beach Grove rink during opening draw action at the 51st annual Beach Grove President’s Cup at Beach Grove Golf and Country Club January 23, 2015. Play continues Saturday and Sunday. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

St. Clair’s Sarah Bondy, left, is defended by Mohawk’s JenJen Abella during OCAA women’s basketball action between the St. Clair Saints and the Mohawk College Mountaineers at the St. Clair Sportsplex, Friday, Jan. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

St. Clair’s Sarah Bondy brings the ball up the court during OCAA women’s basketball action between the St. Clair Saints and the Mohawk College Mountaineers at the St. Clair Sportsplex, Friday, Jan. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

St. Clair’s Shannon Kennedy takes a shot over Mohawk’s Katelyn Arbour during OCAA women’s basketball action between the St. Clair Saints and the Mohawk College Mountaineers at the St. Clair Sportsplex, Friday, Jan. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

St. Clair’s Veronica Uras receives some contact from Mohawk’s Careena Browne, left, while driving to the basket during OCAA women’s basketball action between the St. Clair Saints and the Mohawk College Mountaineers at the SportsPlex on Friday, Jan. 23, 2015.
(DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

The Windsor Star’s reporters and photographers covered the city and county this weekend. Check out the gallery.

President of Devine Personnel, Kyle Devine, and Stephanie Meloche attened the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

Staff and supporters of event title sponsor Motor City Community Credit Union attened the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

DJ Nat Young pumps out the jams at the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

From left to right, Vince Dubuis, event organizer Shae Kavanaugh, Chris Lawler, Johanna Lawler and event organizer Jeff Galad attened the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

From left to right, Scotia Bank employees Pina Vasko, Rosemary Oliverio, Lina DeLuca and Maria DiMenna attened the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

Event organizer Jeff Galad embraces his mother Margaret Galad at the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. Jeff’s inspiration to help put on the fundraiser was his mom who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

From left to right, Kevin White, Natalie Butcher, event sponsor John Krizan and Errol Cesmeci attened the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

The “Gala Girls” and guests from left to right, Linda Micelli, Tony D’Aloisio, Matt Sauro, Bill Micelli, Anna Micelli, Amy Malott, Jim McDowall and Giovanna Gesuale attened the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

Windsor Regional Hospital retirees and their children attened the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

Bartender Chris Rumball serves up brews at the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

From left to right, Kyla Fair, Fiona Koch and Ashley Harmon attened the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

From left to right, Piccolo’s Pizza and Pasta House caterer Shelley Campbell serves up some arancini to Jenny Truong at the 3rd annual Beats n’ Brews fundraiser for MS, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at Walkerville Brewery. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

University of Windsor Lancer Korissa Williams, 6, brushes past University of Ottawa Gee Gees’, 5, Stephanie MacDonald for a layup, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at the St. Denis Centre. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

University of Windsor Lancer Kristine Lalonde, 5, drives the ball up the court Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at the St. Denis Centre. The Lancers took on the University of Ottawa Gee Gees. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

University of Ottawa Gee Gees guard, 5, Stephanie MacDonald guards University of Windsor Lancer Kristine Lalonde, 5, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, at the St. Denis Centre. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

St. Clair’s Adam Bering battles for a rebound with Redeemer’s Jacob Walda, left, in OCAA men’s basketball action between the St. Clair Saints and the Redeemer University College Royals at the SportsPlex, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

St. Clair’s Shavon Gayle scores two on a drive to the rim while Redeemer’s Nathan Di Loreto, centre, and Jacob Walda, left, attempt for the blocked shot in OCAA men’s basketball action between the St. Clair Saints and the Redeemer University College Royals at the SportsPlex, Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Spender Cavalear, 10, fires a rocket at the net while shooting around the puck with friends at Blue Heron Lake in East Windsor, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Spender Cavalear, 10, fires a rocket at the net while shooting around the puck with friends, including Cullen Quinn, 9, left, at Blue Heron Lake in East Windsor, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Spender Cavalear, 10, fires a rocket at the net while shooting around the puck with friends at Blue Heron Lake in East Windsor, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

A transport truck is jackknifed against a Highway 401 guardrail after a single-vehicle collision near the North Talbot Road overpass Sunday morning. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

A transport truck rests in the ditch facing a concrete barrier after it jackknifed on the 401 westbound near N. Talbot Rd., Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015. The driver of the transport suffered serious, but non-life threatening injuries. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

A transport truck rests in the ditch facing a concrete barrier after it jackknifed on the 401 westbound near N. Talbot Rd., Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015. The driver of the transport suffered serious, but non-life threatening injuries. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

Sarnia’s Josh Defarias (28) scores a goal in the first period against Windsor Spitfires goalie Brendan Johnston, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015, at the WFCU Centre. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)

The Windsor Star’s award-winning photographers covered the city and county yesterday. Check out the gallery.

Steve Vlachodimos, the City of Windsor’s deputy clerk, in council chambers on Jan. 26, 2015. (Tyler Brownbridge / The Windsor Star)

A pair of men stop to chat will walking along the shoreline of the Detroit River in Windsor on Monday, January 26, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Ice fishermen are shown at the Lakeview Marina in Windsor, ON. on Monday, January 26, 2015. A short distance away swans swim in open water. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

A ship sits anchored in the middle of the Detroit River as a woman runs past on a chilly day in Windsor on Monday, January 26, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)

Canada Geese fly in the city’s east side on Monday, Jan. 26, 2015, in Windsor, ON. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

Canada Geese fly in the city’s east side on Monday, Jan. 26, 2015, in Windsor, ON. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)

University of Windsor runners Matt Travaglini, from right, Taylor McArthur, Paul Janikowski, Jordan Collison, Matt Hall, Dave Meloche and Andrew Nebel practise Monday at the St. Denis Centre. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)

City of Windsor councillors Bill Marra, left, Irek Kusmierczyk, Rino Bortolin, Jo-Anne Gignac, Ed Sleiman and Fred Francis listen to presentations by city administration during Council Orientation meeting January 26, 2015. All ten councillors and Mayor Drew Dilkens attended the session. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Local radio personality, Lisa Williams, is back behind the microphone at the AM800 station on January 26, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Frozen pond skaters Justin Timmerman, left, Neil Trudell and Nik Kambouris enjoy a beautiful winter afternoon at Malden Park Monday January 26, 2015. A group of six skaters cleared snow on the pond for their hockey game while dozens rambled down the toboggan hill nearby. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)

Provincial police are asking for help to find the masked man who robbed a Belle River convenience store late Sunday.

Essex County OPP said the man entered a store in the 400 block of Notre Dame Street around 10:45 p.m.

The man pulled out a weapon – police won’t say what it was – and demanded cash from the clerk. After the victim handed over the money, the robber fled.

Lakeshore OPP are searching for a suspect wanted in connection with a robbery at a convenience store in the 400 block of Notre Dame Street in Belle River on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015. (HANDOUT/The Windsor Star)

Several officers arrived within minutes but couldn’t track him down.

Police said he was white, five-foot-seven to five-foot-eight and 140 to 150 pounds with an average or thin build. He was wearing a black jacket, black pants, black running shoes with white soles and laces, black gloves and a black balaclava.

Anyone with information can contact Det. Const. Chris Coene at Chris.Coene@opp.ca or (519) 723-2491 ext. 7031. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

The snowstorm that’s expected to batter the U.S. northeast beginning this evening will bypass Windsor and Essex County.

“This storm will not have its tentacles reaching into Ontario,” said David Phillips, senior climatologist with Environment Canada. “Windsor area will be enjoying the sunshine into the week, they are well-removed from the storm. This is definitely one that will be more pleasure to be a spectator than a participant.”

The National Weather Service used terms like “life-threatening” and “historic” to describe the storm. The storm was expected to dump up to 90 centimetres of snow on a 400-kilometre stretch from Philadelphia to Boston. New York ordered private cars to be off the streets after 11 p.m. Monday night. Snow emergencies were declared in Philadelphia, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York.

“Windsor can be very thankful to be missing this storm,” Phillips said. “The snow hasn’t even fallen yet and it’s being described as epic, stoic and even historic. We’ll know in a few hours if it lives up to the hype.”

What makes this storm a great conversation piece is where it is striking, said Phillips.

“With weather, as with real estate, location is everything,” Phillips said. “This storm is going to be affecting the centre of the universe. It has the power to disrupt the New York stock exchange as well inconvenience millions of people.”

Throughout the Northeast, thousands of flights were already cancelled at New York airports for Monday with that number expected to increase on Tuesday when the bulk of the storm is expected to hit.

The timing of the storm made for less headaches at travel agencies.

“Normally, a storm like this could cause some problems for us but we are not in high season,” said Josephine Dimario, senior travel counsellor at Valente Travel. “We usually try to avoid sending them through New York and if we have to, we pray that there is not a snow storm. If this storm had hit after Feb. 14, it would have been a different story for us.”

ksteele@windsorstar.com or on Twitter @WinStarKelly

A cold weather alert has been issued by the Windsor and Essex County health unit for Windsor and Essex County, where the mercury is expected to dip to -15C overnight Tuesday and into Wednesday morning.

The alert remains in effect until 4:45 p.m. Wednesday.