Essex Free Press - April 13, 2023

Essex, Amherstburg Councillors meet to discuss McGregor’s needs

by Sylene Argent

With Walker Road dividing McGregor between the municipalities of Essex and Amherstburg, collaboration has to take place to ensure the hamlet’s needs are met.

Last week, Essex’s Ward 2 Councillor Kim Verbeek and Mayor Sherry Bondy met with representatives of Amherstburg’s Council to discuss shared priorities for not just McGregor, but also Co-An Park.

“It was a good start to see if we are on the same page,” Bondy said. “There is a lot of work to do in terms of McGregor.”

Bondy said the meeting, which also included administration from both municipalities, focused on matters like sewage capacity. Essex and Amherstburg are funding an Environmental Assessment, which will provide information about sewage capacity, which is located on the Amherstburg side of the boundary. This will aid in planning development for the area and identifying restraints.

McGregor homes feed into the lagoons on the Amherstburg-side, so growth must be a joint-endeavor, Bondy explained.

Discussion about beautification also took place, and how both municipalities

can work together to maintain the aesthetics of McGregor’s downtown core.

The shared vision of Co-An Park was also discussed, Bondy noted. Essex and Amherstburg co-own the nearly 40-acre sports facility.

Currently, a multi-year Master Plan is being drafted for Co-An Park, which will outline short, medium, and long-term goals. As a way to gather public input, get new ideas, and discuss opportunities for the park, staff members for the two municipalities hosted an open house last November, in addition to an online survey.

A second public feedback session will take place in the near future. The document, when ready, will be presented to the Co-An Park Advisory Board and both municipal Councils to gather input.

To date, The Town of Essex has $240,000 set aside in a reserve for a future splashpad at Co-An Park. In addition, during the 2022 Budget deliberations, Council voted to forward $81,741 into reserves for Co-An redevelopment as well.

Verbeek, who represents McGregor on Essex Council, was pleased the conversation took place, and is looking forward to future discussions.

Photo submitted. Essex Councillor Kim Verbeek and Mayor Sherry Bondy met with Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue and Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb regarding McGregor’s needs last week.

Calls for Service into the OPP from Essex in February higher than previously recorded

explained. Other areas include parks, docks, new construction sites, and residences.

by

Sylene Argent

Members of the Essex Police Services Board met last Thursday to hear the monthly overview for the month of February.

Overall, there were 474 Calls for Service put into the OPP from within Essex. This was quite a bit higher than the 311 recorded in the same month in 2022 and 359 in 2021. Of the locally OPP policed communities, Leamington had the highest Calls for Service

at 888, while Kingsville had the lowest at 414.

Property checks was the Top Call for Service in February for Essex at 59, as it was also so for Kingsville, Lakeshore, and Tecumseh.

The majority of the property checks in Essex in the first few months of the year, so far, have been at businesses and schools, OPP Essex County Detachment Commander, Inspector Angela Ferguson,

Other Top Calls for Service for Essex in February included 39 requests to inspect downed wires and possible fires, 25 false alarms, 23 traffic hazards, 23 by-law incidents, 22 propertyrelated matters, 21 motor vehicle collisions, and 16 traffic compliance matters. In addition, there were 15 calls each for dangerous conditions, traffic enforcement, and suspicious persons.

Essex and Tecumseh had the lowest violent crime incidents with seven each in February, while Kingsville had 13, Lakeshore had 14, and Leamington had 31.

Ferguson, said she was proud of the clearance rate for violent crime incidents of 83.3 percent.

In addition, in February in Essex, there were 24 property crime matters, which was the lowest of area OPP policed communities. There was also one exceed and impaired offence, one drivers’ licence suspension (of the 30 issued in local OPP policed communities), 15 Criminal Code/ YCJA Charges, and 25 Provincial Offences. There were also 14 calls put in for the Mental Health Response Unit.

As requested at the previous Essex Police Services Board meeting, Ferguson said the OPP will continue to focus on traffic enforcement in Essex.

In addition, members of the Essex Police Services Board asked about OPP training for crisis situations and issues concerning obtaining a police clearance online.

Do you know how much information you share online?

Required fields are usually your name and email address, plus address and payment details if you’re making a purchase. Before entering any information in a non-required field, always ask yourself why the organization is asking for it and if you’ll benefit from disclosing it.

(NC) Whether shopping online, signing up for a newsletter or taking a virtual course, you’ve undoubtedly been asked to share personal information. Be aware of what personal information is and why you might be asked for it.

Personal data includes anything someone could use to identify you - a phone number, date of birth or mailing address, for instance. As the name suggests - it’s personal. Online transactions do require you to provide some information, but it’s important to know how to maintain control over your own personal information.

Here are four key tips: Avoid fields not marked with an asterisk (*). Only fields marked with an asterisk are “required”.

You can withdraw marketing consent at any time. Did you sign up for a mailing list but you’re not interested anymore? No problem. Canada has stringent consumer privacy protection legislation, under which organizations need your express consent to send you marketing material – this is why so many stores ask for your email at the checkout. That consent only lasts for two years, and then it needs to be given again

Additionally, marketing emails must have an “unsubscribe” option. Know your rights as a consumer and always make sure you’re only getting communications you actually want to receive.

Find out how companies are using your data. Look for an organization’s privacy page to find out more about how they’ll use the data they handle. For example, in addition to its privacy commitment (policy), Telus has a Trust Model and a privacy centre that outline how it respects data. Clearly communicated privacy practices can be indications that an organization is working to be transparent and more worthy of your trust.

You can find out more about how to protect your personal data at telus.com/privacy.

&Editorial Opinion

Serving Essex and the surrounding communities since 1896. Published Thursdays as an independent weekly newspaper, owned and operated by The Essex Voice Limited.

A London Publishing Corporation Publication

LIMITED OFFICE HOURS:

Our office is closed to the public, currently. We are working in-office, so if you do need to come into the office, simply knock on the door. Safety protocols are in place.

OUR STAFF

Desiree Elachkar - Office Administration

Kristin Gereige - Distribution Manager

Jessica Azar - Graphic Design / Production

Lana Warwick - Graphic Design

Greg Belchuk - Advertising Sales

Sylene Argent - Editor/News Reporter

Doug Rowe - Operations Manger

CIRCULATION

The Essex Free Press is a publication with controlled circulation of 11,000. Also, it can be read online at: issuu.com/ essexfreepress

DELIVERY

Delivery concerns can be addressed by contacting our office during regular office hours at 519-776-4268

ARCHIVES

The Essex Free Press has been digitized from 1895 to 1968 and is fully searchable at http://ink.ourontario.ca.

OPINION & COMMENT

The opinions expressed on these pages are those of their original authors and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Essex Free Press, its Editor or Publisher.

LETTER POLICY

The Essex Free Press welcomes letters to the editor on topics of interest to our readers. Letters should be typed or neatly handwritten and present the issues as clearly as possible in 300 words or less. We reserve the right to edit for length, grammar, and legal considerations. All letters must contain the name, address, and daytime phone number of the writer for verification purposes. Anonymous letters will not be considered for publication. If you have a legitimate concern and cannot sign your name to a letter, please contact the editor to discuss alternative means of handling the issue.

ADVERTISING

Advertising is accepted on the 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 an ad on first publication, and the publisher accepts no responsibility for errors in multiple insertions. The Essex Free Press reserves the right to reject or edit any advertisement likely to offend community standards.

Display Advertising Deadline: Friday at 2:00 pm

COPYRIGHT

The entire contents of The Essex Free Press and its website, including but not limited to layout composition, artwork, news copy, editorial copy and photographs, are protected by copyright. No portion there of is to be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the specific permission of the publisher.

The Essex Free Press

Office: 16 Centre St. Essex, Ontario

Mail to: P.O. Box 115 Essex, Ontario N8M 2Y1

Phone: 519.776.4268

email: contact@essexfreepress.com

www.essexfreepress.com

Howling at the Moon

••• Comment by

Argent ••• The cyclical struggles of life

I don’t know about anyone else, but for me, the past three-years have been full of roadblocks, challenges, and unexpected twists and turns as I travel along the proverbial road that leads me through life.

There’s been so many unexpected challenges in my life over the past few years, it has become normal to feel it is essentially unnecessary to have a game plan, because I feel like whatever it is I plan will just have to be put on hold or I’ll have to plan a detour to get to wherever it is I want to be, anyway.

I know, I need to suck it up, right? I do, however, feel like I am running out of that steam that helps to navigate through those mired moments.

Lately, I have thought a lot about challenges and all those twists and turns that life tends to throw at us, and I have come to realize that even though there are things in our lives we can’t control, there are things that we can.

One of the things I think we can have some control over is the level of challenge we accept into our lives. What I mean by that is, for instance, I tend to allow things to be difficult. It is like I just accept the challenge, whether I want to or not. I have a hard time telling friends and family members “no,” if they ask for help, I have a hard time leaving things unfinished, and I have a difficult time not doing things to the best of my ability. Sometimes, that means taking on more than I can handle.

That can lead me to something else that I have a difficult time admitting, and that is when I am

Sylene

overwhelmed.

I’m not exactly sure how to accept things the way they are, that things are just not always going to be the way you want them to be, or how to pass something along for someone else to deal with, but perhaps that’s the lesson life is currently trying to teach me.

I have always been a fan of the thought that we live life to learn, and that while we learn we make mistakes. That just means we get to learn even more from the mistakes that we make, if we allow ourselves to use those moments as life lessons.

I think something else that I can struggle with is truly feeling positive when in an atmosphere of doubt or when feeling overwhelmed.

Sometimes that means just getting through all the hard stuff and forgetting to make time for the things that I enjoy. In fact, things have been so stressful over the past few years, I’m not even really sure what that is anymore.

I can get frustrated because one of my favourite life mottos is that time is that one thing that you cannot get a refund for, nor do we know how much time we have to spend. I just feel like the older I get, the more I am putting off the things that I’m truly passionate about or perhaps finding things that I really should be concentrating on.

I think I’ve just become comfortable in this routine of taking care of business, instead of taking care of the business I want to take care of. And I do get interested in how other people manage, because I know other people deal with great difficulty in their lives and still manage to make time for themselves here and there.

So, I’m not really sure what my next step will be or what that will look like. But, it does feel like I’m taking back some control over my time, just by thinking about the possibilities.

In the meantime, one of the small things that I have been able to get back into routine of is going for a walk, now that the weather has been more favorable. And so far, I have found that to be such a stress reliever to be able to put on my headphones, listen to the music I love, and just block out all distractions for an hour. It’s a small thing, but I think it’s a great step toward doing somethings for myself.

County Council postpones meeting on Official Plan, with need for bigger venue

by Sylene Argent

Around 300 individuals flooded the Essex Civic Centre last Wednesday evening to hear a presentation on the New County Official Plan, many of which were expressing concerns with 15-minute cities.

With security guards located outside the building and outside the second floor County Council Chamber that holds just under 170 people, and an overflow area set up with chairs and a small TV outside the room, County Council and staff anticipated a larger crowd planned to attend the meeting, but were not prepared for the large number of individuals who showed up.

County of Essex Warden and Mayor of Leamington, Hilda MacDonald, noted the meeting was meant as the first chance members of the public could comment on any issues or matters that should be considered in the creation of the County of Essex’s New Official Plan.

“There is no question, the Official Plan is an important policy document,” she said.

The County of Essex first implemented its Official Plan in 2001. By Provincial mandate, it needs to be reviewed every five-years.

“It sets out the long-term goals and objectives to guide the County of Essex – in cooperation with [the seven] local municipalities…for the good of everyone that lives within the boundaries of the County,” MacDonald said, noting that includes landowners, business owners, developers, and residents. “They can all rely on the Official Plan to provide guidance and direction, and they all have a place at the table when the Official Plan is being rewritten.

The County, MacDonald said, has received a number of inquiries on whether or not the Official Plan is about the concept of 15-minute cities. “It is not,” she promised those in attendance. “It has nothing to do with 15-minute cities. You can trust me on that.”

The crowd rumbled with disbelief at this statement. “Just a minute,” MacDonald said, hitting her gavel

to get the room under control. “I am in charge of this meeting, not you. I will not tolerate outbursts. I will not tolerate disrespect. You are going to obey the decorum of this building and of this meeting. And if you choose not to, you are free to use the door.”

One individual announced he chose to use the door as he got up to leave, noting any attempt to remove his freedom was unacceptable. MacDonald drowned out his comments by continuously banging the gavel, around 40 times, with the crowd reacting.

“You either sit here and listen respectfully, or we will recess this meeting,” MacDonald said. “Any more outbursts, anymore disrespect, and this meeting will be over.”

The meeting had three delegations on the agenda, who asked to speak at the meeting ahead of time. When they were finished, MacDonald said the meeting would be opened to the public to make their concerns known, with whatever time was left in the one-hour set aside for the meeting.

Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara, who sits near the entrance, asked if the main doors could be shut as he was having difficulty hearing what was going on in the meeting.

Several individuals outside the Chambers noted they could not hear anything from where they were asked to stand, noting they have a right to as they came out and it is a public meeting.

MacDonald asked them to “hold it down” in the hall, so everyone could hear.

Members of the crowd outside the Chambers inquired about getting speakers, so they could hear what was being said.

“This ain’t working today. You better find a better venue for the people that pay your cheque,” one crowd member said.

Rebecca Belanger, Essex County’s Manager of Planning Services, noted there have been significant changes to the provincial planning system, and based on those changes under the Planning Act, it is time for the County to update its own Official Plan.

With consultants carrying on providing information about the Official Plan, members in the audience again complained about not being able to hear.

Before getting to the delegates at the meeting, Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy moved that the meeting be recessed until a new venue can be found to hold it.

“I think we need to pause at this point. I cannot hear anything. I cannot focus on anything. I’m not sure what venue in our area would be bigger, but I am totally comfortable recessing tonight until we find a bigger venue to accommodate [everyone].”

Continued

Pet Of The Week: Bruno

Bruno is a two-year-old Guinea pig looking for his forever home. He is a friendly fella and could enjoy a friend’s company whether it’s you or another Guinea pig friend! He’s at the shelter so fill out an application or stop in today!

“If

~ Amit Ray

The Windsor-Essex County Humane Society shelter is at 1375 Provincial Rd., Windsor. Ph: 519-966-5751. To start the adoption process online, please go to: windsorhumane.org/adoptable-animals

OPP Officers pack groceries to raise funds for Cop Camp

after a two-year hiatus following the COVID pandemic.

This year ’s Cop Camp will still invite around 80 youths from locally policed OPP communities, and it will allow these future leaders to learn about police services, engage with local police on a positive level, and work on team-building and leadership skills.

Essex County OPP Cop Camp.

Typically, OPP Cop Camp is a five-day overnight stay for around 80 youths, who were specially selected by their teachers to attend. These students are graduates of the Values, Influences, and Peers (VIP) program that is offered to local grade six classes.

It is hoped this year‘s Cop Camp, to take place in August, will still offer time out on the water fishing and an array of other fun activities that the youth will enjoy.

Constable Jackie Winand-Bacon has been involved with Cop Camp since its inception. She said the camp always provides for a fun time.

by the experience, they decided to become police officers.

by Sylene Argent

Local OPP officers

spent the better part of the day at the Zehrs grocery store locations in St. Clair

Beach and Kingsville last Thursday, offering to pack groceries for patrons in exchange for a donation to support the 26th Annual

This year, however, the camp will be a day camp spanning over three-days, as local organizers try to get back into the swing of hosting the activities,

Over the years, she has heard many success stories from former youth participants, some of whom were so influenced

Cop Camp, she added, is just one of the ways local police try to build positive relationships with the community.

“We are excited to be back supporting the kids,” she said.

The donations collected

during Thursday’s grocery packing fundraiser, will help support bringing these youths to the camp for free.

The fundraiser was hosted through Copps for Charity. Those who made a donation last Thursday were entered into a draw for a chance to win a gift basket.

Local OPP Officers spent the day packing groceries at the Zehrs location in Kingsville last Thursday to raise funds for the annual Essex County OPP Cop Camp.

County Council postpones meeting on Official Plan...

Responding to someone in the crowd, Bondy said she does not believe anyone is scared to face the public, she wants there to be enough room for everyone.

Essex Deputy Mayor

Rob Shepley agreed with Bondy and suggested getting more information out to the public, so they realize what the topic of conversation is going to be. He said he heard comments in the lobby that were making him uncomfortable and were threatening in nature.

The meeting lasted less than 13-minutes. It did take the individuals in attendance some time to file out as many wrote down their emails, so they can be informed of the future date of the meeting.

Many also stopped and talked to some County Councillors on their way out.

In conversing with residents who reached out to her before the meeting and the night of, Bondy said some residents were mixing up the County Official Plan with the 15-minute city initiative and have worries about that initiative leading to controlling movement within a certain radius.

“None of us have a desire to control lives in Essex County,” Bondy said.

Recessing the meeting prevented delegates who registered to speak ahead of the meeting the opportunity to share their

Continued from Page 5

concerns on land usage and planting more trees. Those who register as a delegate are guaranteed a spot to speak to the issue.

She urged residents with concerns to read the Official Plan document, and if they have concerns with any of the language to bring forward their concerns. She noted government business does need to be conducted in a respectable manner.

County Council ended up cancelling its regular meeting. The meeting video and agenda can be found on the County of Essex website.

In the Report to Council, it notes County Administration was authorized to retain the services of NPG Planning Solutions to assist County Council with the preparation of the County’s new Official Plan.

It adds the County’s Official Plan came into effect in April of 2014, and since this time, there have been several changes to the planning framework at the Provincial level that need to be addressed.

When the updated Official Plan is officially adopted, it will guide and provide direction to landowners, business owners, developers/ homebuilders, and the community at large on matters such as to the location and extent of urban settlement areas; population, employment, and housing projections;

agricultural land and natural heritage protection and enhancement; how people and property are protected from flooding and other hazards; and other policy matters and implementation tools as required to responsibly address Planning Act and Provincial Policy Statement requirements.

Phase 1 of the County’s Official Plan review process prepared the new 30-year County and local population, household, and employment forecasts. It notes from 2021 to 2051, the County is anticipated to accommodate a population increase of approximately 69,000 to 116,000 persons and will require between 29,700 and 42,900 additional homes. During this time frame, the County is also anticipated to provide for an increase of 36,000 to 52,000 jobs, the Report highlights. This information was previously presented to County Council.

Phase 2 will include additional technical studies to address key issues, challenges, and opportunities identified during Phase 1. This additional technical work will include a comprehensive analysis of future urban land requirements Countywide. Phase 3 will prepare the draft new Official Plan and circulate it to local municipalities and partners.

You’re Invited to the Libro Essex

Renovation Celebration

Thursday, April 20 • Open House 11 am - 2 pm Libro Credit Union, 147 Talbot St. N. Essex

Libro is excited to announce the Essex branch renovations are now complete and it looks amazing! The location has been transformed with a modern and refreshed new look. Libro continues to focus on providing expert financial coaching and banking services to our Owners.

We are thrilled about this investment in the Windsor-Essex region because we believe in this thriving community and local economy.

Essex Gospel’s annual Community Easter Egg Hunt...

Lynn DeMoor, Family Ministries Pastor at Essex Gospel Community Church, said. “Our church family looks forward to this event, as it gives us the opportunity for our congregation to come together and give back to the community. We are so proud of the many community partners, who join with us to provide this free event for the children.”

Around 100 volunteers helped organize the event, from connecting with sponsors, stuffing 28,000 eggs with either a chocolate or a voucher that could be exchanged for a special prize, scattering the eggs throughout the soccer fields, and manning the barbeque after the egg hunt.

For fairness, Essex Gospel Community Church splits the soccer fields into sections to allow youths to gather the Easter Eggs against others their own age. All participants under three-years-of-age were given a special prize.

While enjoying a free barbeque lunch for youths under the age of 12, a raffle took place, with thanks to the many local businesses who donated gift cards or prizes for the event.

“It is a great event for families,” DeMoor added. “We couldn’t do it without our sponsors.”

Essex Region Conservation Authority’s Earth Day Tree Planting

Submitted to EFP

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) is inviting guests from across the region to plant a tree this Earth Day at the Earth Day Tree Planting Celebration in the City of Windsor.

“ENWIN is a proud supporter of ERCA and their environmental initiatives as it aligns with our mission of providing electricity and drinking water in a sustainable manner,” said Garry Rossi, President

and CEO of ENWIN Utilities Ltd. “The tree planting event is not only a celebration of Earth Day, but an example of people working together for the betterment of our community. I would like to thank the Essex Region Conservation Authority for including us in this fantastic program, as I look forward to our partnership for years to come.”

The event will take place on Sunday, April 23 at the green space

Voice Of Inspiration

“Whenever you feel down,

take

located off Wyandotte and Florence. Opening ceremonies will begin at 10am, with the planting of 1800 trees to follow.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own shovel, if possible. There will be a limited supply of tree planting tools available to share. Parking is available at Riverside Kiwanis Park/Pump Track parking lot, McHugh Park parking lot and various public parking lots along Riverside Drive east. Use the Ganatchio Trail system to arrive at the Earth Day site.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to sign up as a Green Team to receive a certificate of participation. Green Teams can sign up

organization established by the Province in 1973, and governed by local municipalities. For 50 years, ERCA has delivered programs and THERE’S NO TIME LIKE NOW. Taking the first step towards better hearing is simple — start with a complimentary hearing evaluation* with our Audiologist, Christine Luciani. Book an Appointment Today and experience the HearCANADA difference. 519-776-1110 186 Talbot Street South, Unit 2, Essex, ON Sound of the New Age * Complimentary hearing evaluations valid for those over 50. Not valid on third party claims. HearCANADA.com

services that further the conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources in watersheds in Ontario. Accepting all types of 3rd party insurance including direct billing to Greenshield, WSIB and DVA. Christine Luciani, B.Sc., M.S.C., Reg. CASLPO Audiologist

long walk in nature.”

Popular trends in home exteriors

Certain homes have an undeniable wow factor. That instant appeal tends to be noticeable the moment visitors pull up to the curb, and it might be a byproduct of homeowners’ willingness to embrace the latest exterior design trends.

Trends come and go, but recognition of the current fashions can help homeowners create that highly sought-after wow factor. The following are some recent trends in

home exteriors that have helped homeowners set their properties apart.

Wood

Natural wood has undeniable appeal, and it hasn’t only found newfound devotion among home interior decorators. Natural wood garage doors create a sense of warmth and can set a home apart from others with steel doors, which tend to be the most popular garage door material. In addition to the garage door, natural wood

entry doors and wood decks are popular ways to impart this classical, warm look to a home’s exterior.

Painted brick

Like natural wood, brick is a traditional material that’s both sturdy and classical. But homeowners can add character to brick with a coat of paint, which has become a popular trend in recent years. Light tones tend to be most popular when painting bricks.

The experts at Better Homes & Gardens note that this could prove a long-term commitment if homeowners so desire, as a properly painted brick exterior could last as long as 20 years.

Hardscaping

Coming soon to Amhertsburg, 18 Luxury homes!!

Hardscaping isn’t a new trend, but it has been trending in recent years. Hardscaping is an umbrella term that includes everything from outdoor living rooms to incorporating natural stone into a landscape. Outdoor living rooms are one hardscaping

trend that has become increasingly popular of late. These spaces serve as an extension of indoor living spaces. The home improvement experts at HGTV note that recently homeowners have looked to create covered outdoor rooms that can be enjoyed more frequently than patios or decks that are not protected from the elements.

Outdoor lighting

It makes sense that individuals looking to spend more time enjoying their properties outdoors

would want more lighting outside. Ambient outdoor lighting can be utilized throughout a property. Such lighting can light up walkways and driveways and be used to light up landscaping features like trees and gardens. Home design trends tend to be fickle. But recognition of the current trends in exterior home design can set homes apart and turn properties into awe-inspiring places to enjoy the great outdoors.

Questions to ask your renovation contractor

Individuals looking to renovate their homes typically reach out to a number of professionals for estimates before choosing a contractor. Once that decision has been made, it’s customary to sign a contract to ensure all parties are protected during and after the work.

A renovation contract outlines the details of a remodeling job. The

construction company or the general contractor will create this legal document, which will list the steps of the job and how issues will be resolved should problems arise. Prior to signing a contract, however, homeowners should engage in a conversation with the contractor and ask key questions.

• How long have you been in business? Verify the information that the contractor and/or company provides by doing a search with the Better Business Bureau and perusing online reviews to confirm the company is dependable.

• Are you independently owned? Some companies are independently owned businesses while others are franchises. Franchised businesses may have to follow a strict set of rules, while independent contractors may have more

leeway in terms of policies.

• What is your licence number? Obtain the licensure information as well as the contractor’s insurance details. A contractor’s general liability insurance protects your home and property in the event of an accident.

• Are you familiar with local building codes? Check to see if the contractor has worked in the area before, and if he or she is familiar with the permit process. Make sure a contract documents who will be securing the permits.

• How will the project be supervised? Some contractors sub-contract out the work and may only stop by to check on progress. Understand how often those drop-ins will take place, and how to get

Small renovations that can make a big impact

kitchen overhaul may stretch some homeowners’ budgets. However, changing an older countertop for a new material can provide the facelift a kitchen needs. And while changing the cabinets may be homeowners’ ultimate goal, swapping hardware in dated finishes for newer handles and pulls can provide low-cost appeal.

they take on entirely new looks. It’s worth it to invest in new lighting, whether it’s a dramatic hanging light over the dining room table or task lighting in dim spaces.

the average American homeowner has, accounting for around 45 percent of all energy costs.

Home renovations provide a host of benefits. Such projects can increase resale value and improve on the safety, aesthetics and functionality of a

Some homeowners may employ the mantra “go big or go home” when they embark on home

improvements, thinking that only the largest renovations produce noticeable change. But that’s not the case. Various smaller renovations can provide a lot of bang for homeowners’ bucks as well.

• Countertops (and hardware): A complete

• Paint: Painting a space is an inexpensive improvement that adds maximum impact. Paint can transform dark and drab rooms into bright and airy oases. Paint also can be used to create an accent wall or cozy nooks. Homeowners also can showcase their personalities with their choice of paint colours.

• Lighting: Homeowners should not underestimate what a change in lighting can do. When rooms or exterior spaces are illuminated,

• Weatherproofing: Improving windows, doors, weatherstripping, and insulation in a home can offer visual appeal and help homeowners save money. The initial investment may be significant, but those costs will pay off in energy savings. According to One Main Financial, space heating is the largest energy expense

• Mudroom: Turn an entryway into a more functional space with the addition of cabinets, benches or customdesigned storage options that perfectly fit the area. Cubbies and cabinets can corral shoes, umbrellas, hats, bags, and much more.

• Accent updates: Any space, whether it’s inside or outside a home, can get a fresh look with new decorative accents. Invest

in new throw pillows and even slipcovers for living room sofas. Use new tile or paint the brick on a fireplace in a den, then update the mantel with decorative displays. Purchase wall art that can bring different colours into a room. Change the cushions on deck furniture and buy colourcoordinated planters. These subtle changes will not cost as much as full-scale renovations, but they can still help homeowners transform their homes.

5 patio projects to enhance outdoor living

resource The Spruce, a patio is often an oasis for lounging and entertaining. And depending on homeowners’ budgets and preferences, a patio can be just as comfortable and stylish as interior spaces. The following are five patio projects that can transform these valuable spaces.

1. Pretty pergola

can make this a great spot to gather when the sun sets.

2. Patio fire pit

Warm weather paves the way to more opportunities to enjoy fresh air. For homeowners who have the luxury of

outdoor spaces, including private patios, now is the time to start thinking about projects to enhance these gathering spots.

A patio can be considered a transitional area that links the outdoors to the inside of a home. According to the home and lifestyle

A pergola is an open-air (traditionally wood) structure that adds a measure of shade and privacy without completely blocking views of Mother Nature. Installing a pergola over the patio helps define the seating area. Hanging plants can add to the ambiance and string lights

Build a fire pit right into the design with the same materials used to create the patio. For example, if the patio is brick or flagstone, build up to create an eyecatching fire pit. Fire pits not only look good, they also expand the time frame that the patio can be enjoyed, offering cozy spots to sit even when the weather chills.

3. Frame it in

Make the patio a true extension of the inside by putting up walls around three sides of the patio if it connects to the home. Leave the last open to the yard, or consider installing screens to mimic the look of popular lanais. The walls will offer more weather protection, meaning you can invest in high-quality patio furniture to make this a fully functioning outdoor living room. Hang a television that is rated for outdoor use for movie-watching under the sun or stars.

4. Ooh la la

Vintage bistro tables and chairs can turn a drab patio into one that calls to

mind a Parisian courtyard. Whimsical lighting and accents that you would normally think to see indoors, like a gilded mirror, can add extra appeal. Soften wrought iron and other metals on the furniture by including plenty of flowers and greenery. Don’t forget the candles and a place to stash a bottle of chilling wine.

5. Farmhouse chic Transform a patio into an entertaining space that caters to guests A large farmhouse style table flanked by benches and some upholstered chairs sets the scene for a dinner amid the fresh air. Watering cans filled with wildflowers and mismatched flatware establish a casual feel for gatherings in the space. For those who plan to cook and serve outside with frequency, invest in outdoor appliances so you’ll never have to miss a beat with guests.

The options for transforming patios into stylish gathering spots is only limited by the imagination.

newscanada.com

How to make outdoor living spaces more comfortable

spaces comfortable and welcoming. The following are some good starting points.

Get all lit up

outdoors to swim, take a cat nap or even star gaze in private.

Address the elements

to sit and stay awhile. Take a dip

Private backyards are now go-to spaces for recreation and entertainment and great places to recharge the body and mind.

One ripple effect of the COVID-19 pandemic was more time spent outdoors, even if it was predominantly on one’s own property. OnePoll, in conjunction with the lawn care company TruGreen,

surveyed 2,000 American homeowners and found participants spent 14 hours outside every week in 2021, which was three hours more than prior to the pandemic. In addition, respondents admitted that time spent outdoors was therapeutic.

A separate survey conducted for the International Casual Furnishings Association

found that people now spend more time relaxing, gardening, exercising, dining, and entertaining outside than in years past. Though COVID-19 may no longer dominate headlines, the desire to enjoy outdoor spaces has not waned.

While enjoying outdoor living areas, homeowners can do all they can to make these

Outdoor spaces can be enjoyed no matter the hour when there is ample lighting. That could be why the International Casual Furnishings Association reports those who plan to renovate their outdoor spaces list outdoor lighting as a priority. Outdoor lighting not only sheds light on entertaining spaces, but also makes spaces safer and more secure.

Increase privacy

No matter how friendly homeowners are with their neighbours, there comes a time when privacy is paramount. Fencing, whether it is wood or vinyl, or even a natural fence made from closely planted hedges, can ensure residents feel comfortable venturing

Homeowners should note the direction their backyard faces and the typical daily conditions of the space. For example, a yard that faces southwest may get plenty of strong sun during the day, requiring the addition of shade trees, covered patios or arbors to cut down on the glare and heat. If the yard is often hit by winds, trees or bushes planted strategically as windbreaks can help.

Sit comfortably

High-quality comfortable seating increases the likelihood that homeowners will want to stay awhile in their outdoor spaces. A deep seating set complete with plush chairs, outdoor sofa or love seat and chaise lounge chairs gives people more opportunity

A pool can be the perfect gathering spot on a warm day, while a spa/ hot tub can bridge the gap to cooler weather. According to the Family Handyman, soaking in hot tubs can relax tired muscles after a long day, loosen up stiff joints, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.

Bite back at bugs

Homeowners may want to consider using a professional exterminator to get rid of ticks, mosquitoes and other nuisance insects from outdoor spaces. As people spend more time enjoying their properties, they can consider the many ways to make outdoor living spaces more comfortable.

metrocreativeconnection.com

Month-by-month spring home maintenance tips

is designed to make people’s lives more convenient, it’s easy to take it for granted and become complacent about the safety needed to use it effectively.

demand for electricity without modification.

The following are some warning signs that electrical issues could lead to bigger problems:

Here are nine guidelines to follow, courtesy of the National Fire Protect.

Electricity helps run the world, including our homes and businesses.

Without electricity, we’d have no access to lighting, our interior

spaces may not be heated or cooled effectively, and the computers and other devices we rely on so heavily would not run. Even though electricity

The Electrical Safety Foundation International says each year electrical malfunctions account for 35,000 home fires causing more than 1,130 injuries, 500 deaths and $1.4 billion in property damage. Since the average American home was built in 1977, many existing homes of this age and older simply cannot handle modern

Questions to ask your renovation contractor...

in touch with the person in charge should a problem arise.

• Is there a warranty?

Certain contractors will stand behind their work

for a period of time, even coming to make repairs if there are any issues. Check to see if a warranty policy is in place.

• What is the policy

Continued from Page 10

for home protection and clean-up? You’ll want to ensure the rest of your home doesn’t become damaged or soiled due to the construction. Have the contractor spell out plans for mitigating mess during demolition, and whether the construction company will be responsible for removing the debris.

• What is the final price? One of the more important questions to ask is if the price stated on the contract will be the final price, or should incidentals be expected if issues are unearthed during construction? Some contractors may need to tack on charges for extra materials, and that can stretch homeowners’ budgets.

It’s important to touch base with the contractor and ask key questions about the project, which will be reflected on the contract both parties eventually sign.

metrocreativeconnection.com

• Tripping of circuit breakers or blowing of fuses regularly

• Dimming of lights when other devices are in use

• Buzzing sounds from outlets or switches

• Discoloured outlets

• Seemingly underpowered appliances

Additional warning signs can include a tingling feeling when an electrical appliance is touched, rubbery smells or an aroma of burning.

Individuals can take certain precautions to ensure electrical safety at home and at work.

1. Have any home you are buying or renting inspected by a qualified private inspector in accordance with local requirements.

2. When electrical work is needed, hire a qualified, licensed electrician.

3. Use only one heatproducing appliance plugged into a receptacle outlet at a time.

4. Do not use extension cords for major appliances like ovens, washers, stoves or microwaves. They should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet.

5. Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) should be installed in kitchens, bathrooms,

garages, and basements to shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard.

6. Extension cords should only be used temporarily. Have an electrician install more outlets if they are needed.

7. Keep the area around the electric meter clear.

8. Make sure outdoor lights and other fixtures are rated for outdoor use.

9. Label the circuit breakers to understand the different circuits in the home and know which to turn off when electrical work is being conducted. It doesn’t take much for an electrical issue to become serious and start a fire or cause shocking. Treat all electricity use in a home or business seriously.

Diane Desjardins uses 80th birthday party to raise items, money for Essex Area Food Bank

by Sylene Argent

Photo submitted

Instead of accepting gifts for her 80th birthday celebration, Essex resident Dianne Desjardins asked her friends and family members to support the Essex Area Food Bank in its efforts of putting food on the tables of those facing economic hardships.

On April 1, Desjardins hosted a birthday extravaganza at the Essex Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 201), and was overwhelmed with the food and monetary donations that were provided.

Thanks to her family members and friends, nearly $1500 was raised, in addition to a grocery cart – filled with around 15 boxes of food piled so

high, it nearly touched the ceiling.

“It was more than I expected,” Desjardins said. “I know it is needed.”

At 80, Desjardins said she has everything she needs. She is thankful for that, especially for her health. That is what inspired her to host the fundraiser for the Essex Area Food Bank.

Desjardins said she volunteers with St. Paul’s Clothing Cupboard, which provides clothing items to those who utilize the Essex Area Food Bank. In helping those in need, she has heard many great things about the Essex Area food Bank and wanted to support the organization that helps so many.

She was pleased to forward the donations on Tuesday, April 4, and was

appreciative to get a tour of the Essex Area Food Bank operation, which is located in the gymnasium at Essex United Church.

Her birthday party, thanks to those who attended and helped organize it, made for a wonderful memory, Desjardins said. She added her daughter and some of her granddaughters did a wonderful job with decorating for the occasion and appreciated her daughter’s boyfriend who added a musical touch to the party.

Recently, Essex Area Food Bank Coordinator, Gerry Belanger, said there has been an increase in clients. It is currently serving 45 to 50 clients per each of the two days it is open to serve those in need per week. Many of those new clients are seniors.

He always expresses thanks and gratitude to those who help support the Essex Area Food Bank.

FARMING

WANTED

Farm Land to Rent

Cash or Share Crop

Call Jeff Siefker (cell) 519-796-1240 or (home) 519-776-9501. 1-tfn

SERVICES

KENNETH YARDWORKS - Spring Clean-

Up. leaves, Trees, bushes, trimmed or removed. Sod, mulch, eavestrough cleaning and repairs, power washing. Loads to the dump. Fully licensed & insured. Free estimates. Call Kenneth: 519-982-0362. 1-tfn

SERVICES

MARTY’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIRS - Tune-ups, repairs, & service on snowblowers, riding lawn mowers, chainsaws, & more! 519-733-0986, (c) 519-965-5918. 1-tf

JOHN’S WOODWORKING - Repairs and refinishing of wood furniture. We are located in Essex serving Windsor/Essex area. Call/text 519-818-4480 or jjarps@ hotmail.com 49-tfn

INCOME TAX PREPARATION: Good rates on personal, rental, and business returns. E-file or paper file. Call Jeannette Grass (519) 890-9111. 8-10t*

FOR SALE

FOR SALE: HOOVER KITCHEN CABINETS

Built-in countertop stove & oven. Call: 519-995-4450. 14-3t*

FOR SALE: JOHN DEERE TRACTOR 8320R, 800hrs. Excellent condition. Duals, weights, and leather. Call: 519995-4450.

14-3t*

FOR SALE: STEEL BARRELS - 45 Gal. with locking lids, food grade, no rust $25.00 each. Great for storage, rain barrells, shipping, fire pits, etc. 519-839-4741.

14-3t*

HELP WANTED

HIRING! LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE and LANDSCAPE LABOURERS, $18/hour. Experience necessary. Fax your resume to (519) 723-2336 or email to quinlaninc@ kelcom.igs.net

1-1tff

HELP WANTED: Greenhouse and Packing line Labour. General greenhouse labour, duties include pruning, picking, planting and cleaning of greenhouse. Packing line labour, duties include inspecting, weighing and packing produce on assembly line. Lifting, bending and standing is required. Must be able to work all shifts. Rural area. No public transportation available. No specific education required. Experience is an asset. Rate of pay- $15.50. To apply please email: Lindsay@policellafarms. com Or Mail to Domric International, PO Box 218, Ruthven ON N0P 2G0. 1-tfn

HELP WANTED

PART-TIME WEBSITE & VIDEO EDITING

- Assistant to the Artist- Work in house 2 days per week in Essex. Monday & Tuesday preferred. Must have basic experience with Word press, video editing, & Microsoft Word. Call Ron 519.776.5767 from 10am-5pm. 10-1tf

HELP WANTED - Full-time labour & student worker. Chainsaw experience is helpful. Outdoor work. Driver’s Licence required. Countrywide Tree Service. Call: 519-733-2537. 12-1t

WANTED

CASH PAID for scrap cars and trucks. Free removal. Please phone: 519-776-1361 or 519-791-5046. 1-tfn

CASH PAID for antiques, costume jewellery, furniture, gold, sterling, coins, tools, complete estates. We take it all! Free appraisals. Call 519-727-8894. 1-tfn

REAL ESTATE

Buying or selling a farm? Do you know the right questions and answers? Farm Experienced Realtor Carl Idzinski, Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty - Brokerage. 519-817-8891. 1-tt*

REAL ESTATE

HOUSE FOR SALE: House for sale with large shed, on an acre lot. 2744 County Rd. 31, Ruscom Station. Call: 519-9954450. 14-3t*

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Claims against the Estate of LEROY ARTHUR DAVISON late of Woodslee, in the County of Essex and Province of Ontario, who died on March 7th, 2023,

PERSONAL NOVENA TO ST. JUDE

Oh holy St. Jude, apostle and martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need. To you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present urgent petition, in return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St. Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen. Say three Our Father’s, three Hail Mary’s and three Glory Be To The Father. Publication must be promised. This novena has never known to fail. This novena must be said for nine consecutive days. J.B.

Town of Essex Seeking Members for Animal Control Appeal Committee

Please be advised that the Council of the Town of Essex is seeking interested citizens to serve on an Animal Control Appeal Committee for a limited term. Selected applicants will receive training on the Animal Care and Control By-Law and, with respect to any Appeals to be heard, will be asked to declare that they will serve on an impartial basis and that they have no interest in the matter(s) to be adjudicated. Persons interested in serving on the Animal Control Appeal Committee should submit their names in writing, along with a brief outline of their qualifications to the undersigned no later than Friday, April 14, 2023.

Shelley Brown, Acting Clerk Town of Essex

33 Talbot Street South, Essex

519-776-7336, extension 1129 clerks@essex.ca

Town of Essex

Interim Installment of Property Taxes

If you own property in the Town of Essex you should have received your interim tax notice before February 17, 2023.

The second installment is due on April 28, 2023.

Failure to receive a tax notice does not relieve you from payment of taxes or penalties. Penalties are assessed on the first day of default at 1.25% and each month thereafter until paid. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure the Town has the correct mailing address.

Please contact 519-776-7336 extension 3050 if you need a copy of your Interim Tax Notice. Please note there is a charge of $12.28 for a reprint.

Convenient Payment Options

At the bank, online banking, credit card payments using Virtual City Hall, cheque by mail or drop box located at 33 Talbot Street South, Essex & 243 McAffee Street, Harrow, and Town Hall during the hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Drainage, Water/Wastewater Arrears, Interest and Penalties

Please note, unpaid water/wastewater arrears and drainage charges, as well as interest and penalties, may be added and appear on your property tax account. However, depending on the timing of these charges, they may not appear on your property tax notice.

Tax Registration

The Municipal Act, 2001 allows a municipality to begin the tax sale process on a property on January 1, if there is a balance in the second year following the year that property taxes are due. The Town of Essex adheres to this timeline for tax sale. For more information on the tax sale process and general tax information, please visit www.essex.ca/taxes.

Flyers win Western Conference Championship - Leamington now advances to Sutherland Cup Playoffs -

20-minutes before the Flyers opened the scoring in the second. They notched a goal in the opening minute and two more in the frame to carry a 3–0 lead into the intermission. The Lincolns scored in the third period, but were unable to beat Walcarius again.

The Flyers prevailed 3-1, earning the Bill Weir Trophy as the Western Conference Champions.

Walcarius was named playoff MVP after going 11-1 in the postseason with a 1.42 goals against

average and a 0.951 save percentage – both the best marks in the entire league.

Ryan MacPherson paced the Flyers in scoring with 14 assists and 21 points, while Connor MacPherson scored 11 goals in 11 playoff games.

Leamington now advances to the GOJHL’s Sutherland Cup round robin, where they will face the Midwestern Conference champion, the Stratford Warriors, and the Hamilton Kilty B’s, which took home the Golden Horseshoe Conference

crown.

Each team will play each other twice and the two best teams will then face off in a best-of-7 Sutherland Cup Final.

Game 1 – Friday, April 14 @ Stratford 7:30pm

Game 2 – Sunday, April 16 vs Hamilton 5:10pm

Game 3 – Thursday, April 20 vs Stratford 7:10pm

Game 4 – Sunday, April 23 @ Hamilton 5:00pm

by Garrett Fodor

It may have taken two tries, but for the first time since 2015, the Leamington Flyers are GOJHL Western Conference Champions.

Holding a 3-0 series lead, the Flyers hit the road on Tuesday, heading to St. Marys to face off against the Lincolns. With around 200 Flyers fans making the trip to St. Marys, throughout the game there were rumbles of support that made it sound like a Flyers’ home game.

The teams skated to a scoreless opening period. Owen Holmes, however, put the visiting Flyers on

the board in the second period. With five-minutes left in the third period, the Lincolns continued to push, eventually breaking through, tying the game and bringing their fans to life.

Three-minutes later, the Lincolns were rewarded with a powerplay and made the Flyers pay, as they beat Bryce Walcarius with twominutes to play, making it 2-1. They added an empty netter late to ice it 3-1, and hand the Flyers its first loss of the postseason.

They returned home Thursday, looking to ice the series. Once again, it was a scoreless opening

Voice Of Inspiration

“Losers are full of excuses. Winners just don’t have time for them; they just make things happen while others are trying to figure it out.”

~ Germany Kent

FromThe Heart

BIRTHDAY ANNOUNCEMENT

~ April 14, 2023 ~

I am so grateful to everyone who helped make my 80th birthday an amazing day. To my kids and relatives who made and contributed to the delicious food. To my friends, family, lots of cousins, co-workers, retirees, and church family for attending and helping us celebrate. To my family for decorating the Legion Hall so beautifully and the ‘Newfoundlander’ accompaniment on guitar for the happy birthday song. A special thanks for the large amount of food and money donations for the Essex Area Food Bank, as well as other gifts.

~ “LOL” - Lots of Love & Laughter ~ -

Dianne Desjardins

IN LOVING MEMORY

Seasonal allergies or asthma? Know the difference

shortness of breath and wheezing. Ongoing, long-term treatment is necessary to manage asthma by suppressing the inflammation.

Can having seasonal allergies lead to asthma?

Saturday April 29, 2023 at St. Mary’s Hall 12016 Talbot Road, Maidstone from 2pm to 4pm Best wishes only

OBITUARIES

HYLAND, Clara “Jean” - 87 years passed away April 6, 2023 at Erie Shores Healthcare. Beloved daughter of the late Garnet and Gertrude Hyland. Dearest sister of the late Bertha Nelson (late Murray), late Morley Hyland (late Sylvia), late Doris Colenutt (late Frank), late Walter Hyland (Muriel), Edna Nicholas (late Eugene), Wayne Hyland (late Ann), and late Marie Hyland. She will be very missed by her many nieces and nephews and great and great great nieces and nephews. Many will remember Jean as the cook from Gesstwood Camp, Essex High School and working in the cafeteria at the Essex Civic Centre. A special thank you to the staff at Southgate Residence and Country Village Long Term Care for their wonderful care and kindness shown to Jean. A Private family service will take place at Reid Funeral Home, 87 Maidstone Ave. E., Essex (519-776-4233) followed by interment at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. If desired, memorial donations made to the charity of choice would be appreciated. Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

(NC) With warmer weather upon us, triggers like pollen, ragweed, trees and grass can make life uncomfortable for many Canadians – leaving sufferers with runny noses, itchy eyes, coughs and difficulty breathing. But is there a chance it could be asthma?

What are seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies or hay fever are caused by an inappropriate response by the body’s immune system to environmental triggers like grass, weeds or pollen that are interpreted by the body as harmful. This can result in asthma-

like symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath, as some allergens cause airways to become inflamed and tighten. The symptoms are typically felt seasonally in the spring or fall.

How is asthma different?

The difference is that asthma is a chronic, lifelong inflammatory airway disease. It is not necessarily genetic but can run in families. With asthma, airway linings become inflamed, swollen and congested, again causing the airways to narrow and resulting in serious chest tightening,

Seasonal allergies can sometimes lead to asthma or worsen pre-existing asthma symptoms. This is called allergic asthma. When a person with allergic asthma is exposed to an allergen, their immune system overreacts and produces inflammation in the airways.

According to medical contributors at Care to Know, a digital health-care platform, not everyone with seasonal allergies will develop allergic asthma, but they are at a higher risk.

It’s important to recognize the signs of allergic asthma, such as wheezing and shortness of breath, and seek medical attention if these symptoms occur.

If you have seasonal allergies and are at risk of developing allergic asthma, your doctor

may recommend taking medication to prevent asthma symptoms such as inhaled corticosteroids that suppress the inflammation in the airways and can allow you to live free of symptoms.

Know the triggers

Allergies can be triggered by environmental factors like weeds, mould spores, pet dander, tree pollen or by irritants that are non-allergic such as cigarette smoke, BBQ smoke, smog, air pollution and perfume scents.

Asthma is triggered by some of these allergens, but it’s also brought on by respiratory infections like colds and flu; exercise –especially when the air is cold and dry; weather changes in temperature, humidity and barometric pressure; and stress or stressful situations.

You can learn more about how to manage allergy and asthma symptoms at caretoknow.ca.

What’s Going On...

APRIL 15 - SPRINGFEST VENDORS MARKET - Hosted by North Star High School, 330 Simcoe St. Amherstburg. Over 100 vendors. Pumpkinfest preshow.

APRIL 22 - ONTARIO PURPLE MARTIN ASSOCIATION MEETING at 9a.m., Orchard View Golf Course, 1357 County Road 34, Ruthven. All welcome. For info: 519-738-3476.

APRIL 29 - WETRA’S BLUE JEAN BASH - at WETRA: 3323 North Malden Rd., Essex. 5pm - Midnight - Dinner, dancing, entertainment, etc. For all info: www.wetra.ca

MAY 6 - DETROIT RIVER WALLEYE CLASSIC TOURNAMENT - from the LaSalle Firefighters Assoc. For all info & to register, visit: www.detroitwalleyeclassic.com

MAY 6 - 30TH ANNIVERSARY KINGSVILLE MILITARY MUSEUM DINNER - at the Legion Banquet hall at 4pm. Call for tickets and more information: 519-733-2803.

HIATUS HOUSE: offers counselling services in Essex County. Women’s Fresh Start group therapy is once a week. For info or to schedule an intake appointment, call the 24-hour Hiatus House helpline at 519-252-7781.

Fresh food. Friendly neighbours

Salvation Army Essex Church

submitted by Carolyn Barnett

Please note, there will be no Bible Study on April 18th.

We sincerely appreciate your donations of non-perishable goods to our Food Bank. For Information, please call the office at 519-776-4628.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church

submitted by Sandra Lypps

Join us for Sunday service each week at 11am. All are welcome to join us!

Our annual yard sale will take place on Saturday April 22 from 9am - 2pm in the Parish Hall.

Our vendors market will return on May 13th. Stay tuned for a list of vendors!

If you are cleaning out closets, please keep our Clothes Cupboard in mind. We are always accepting gently used clothing to give to those in need.

For more information about what is happening at St Paul’s, please see our website (www.stpaulsessex.ca) and social media. Messages are checked regularly at the church office, you can reach us there at 519-776-7711.

Trinity Anglican Church

Visit our little library by the gazebo, take-a-book and leave-a-book. Sit for a while and enjoy the quietness.

Our Annual smorgasbord is back. Sit down or take-out both available on Saturday, April 29th from 4:30-6:30 pm.

Those who plant tulips and daffodils in the fall, do so on faith that the flowers will grow and bloom.

At Trinity, we’re growing and we invite you to join our church family. Sunday services are at 9:45am with the Rev.’ d Hilton Gomes. All are welcome

Central Essex County Catholic Family of Parishes

Essex, Maidstone, McGregor, and Woodslee

The Divine Mercy Sunday service will take place on April 16th at 3pm at St. Clément’s Church.

The Essex K of C is having a Euchre night on Monday, April 17th at 7pm at Holy Name of Jesus.

There will be a Chili Cook-Off on Tuesday, April 25th at St. John’s Hall from 5 -7pm for a freewill offering.

The Essex K of C Fish Fry is on Friday, April 28th at Holy Name of Jesus parish hall.

For up to date news, please visit our website: centralessexcatholic.dol or social media.

Woodslee United Church

Join us for Sunday Service and Sunday School at 10:45am. Rev. Carl will lead the Service. Video of the service

Town of Essex to participate in Community Clean-Up competition

most weight in trash!

The clean-up will be held in Essex Centre, Harrow, Colchester, and McGregor with designated meeting spots to pick up gloves, bags, and maps. All ages are welcome and student community services hours will be provided. To help determine the number of volunteers, please register by calling 519-776-7336 ext. 1124 or register online.

Essex Green Team Community Clean-Up

When: Saturday, April 22, 2023

and bulletins are on our website: woodsleepastoralcharge.ca

Join us for coffee and conversation every Thursday at 10am. Enjoy Playing Cards? Join us every Monday at 1pm for Euchre, and every Wednesday at 1pm for Pepper.

St. Stephen’s and Church of the Redeemer

The Easter season continues in our churches for the next six weeks, so join us at Redeemer at 8:30 a.m. or St. Stephen’s at 11:15a.m. Check out our Easter gardens to commemorate Jesus’ resurrection.

Tthe Pasta Dinner at Church of the Redeemer on Saturday, April 22nd from 4 - 7p.m. Watch for more details.

Essex Christian Reformed Church

submitted by Beverley Van Huizen

We invite you to join us each Sunday at 10:00am. All safety protocols are in place with hand sanitizing and your choice of mask wearing. Or you may join us online each Sunday morning, beginning at 10:00am.

You may prefer to join us online each Sunday morning beginning at 10:00 am. Visit us at www.essexcrc.ca for a link to our social media page.

Come be part of the community, our Take-a-book Leave-a-book library is now in front of Essex CRC church.

GEMS and Cadets meet on Monday evenings from 6:30 - 8:00pm. This is a great club for girls and boys from Grade 1-8, where we participate in bible studies, crafts and games. All are welcome to attend.

Essex United Church

On Sunday, April 16th, the worship committee will lead our Earth Day and Holy Humour service. We need a little levity after the heaviness of Easter. Please come dressed “comfortably and/or funnily” and bring a joke or two. A light lunch will follow.

Please check out our website, essexunitedchurch.ca, to listen to our Sunday message. Hit the “Youtube” button.

The Essex Food Bank is open on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Their phone number is 519-776-4070.

Bethel-Maidstone United

Our ser vice begins at 10 am Sunday mornings, and all are invited to hear Rev. Paul Rodey’s message. We enjoy coffee hour in the hall after the service. All are welcome.

The next UCW meeting will be at 1pm on Monday, April 17th. All ladies of the congregation are welcome and encouraged to attend. We are pleased to welcome Lady Laforet, executive director from the Welcome Shelter for Women & Families. She will speak about their new facility and the programs they offer.

The secretary can be reached on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9am - 1pm at: (519) 723-2284 and our email is bethelmaidstone@gmail.com. We are located at 933 Talbot Road, Maidstone, near the corner of Manning Road and Talbot. www.bethelmaidstone.com

Submitted to EFP

Join us as we take part in the Rotary Club Community Clean-Up competition. Let’s see which community can collect the most trash!

The Town of Essex will be holding a community clean-up on Saturday, April 22, 2023. Join the Essex Green Team to offer a helping hand and compete in a friendly competition with our neighbours at the Town of Kingsville to see which community can collect the

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (Lunch will be provided at 11:00 a.m.)

Locations:

• Heritage Gardens Park Pavilion

• Harrow & Colchester S. Community Centre

• McGregor Community Centre

• Colchester Park Playground

The trash collected from each municipality will be weighed to determine the winner!

Learn more and register at www essex.ca/GreenTeam

In partnership with the Rotary Club.

Stock Photo

TAX PREPARATION

Over35years experience.

4 ways to get the most out of cottage season

(NC) This time each year, many Canadians pack up and go to cottages across the country. Albertans head to cabins, Quebecers travel to chalets, and northwestern Ontarians visit camps. Here are four things to keep in mind to make the most of your escape.

1. Maintain your dock

One of the most important elements in cottaging is the dock. Maintain the integrity of your dock by keeping an eye out for raised

nails, shifted supports and boards that need replacing. That way you can tie up your boat or cannonball with confidence.

2. Garden mindfully When tackling landscaping projects, maintain the beauty of your land’s natural environment by encouraging biodiversity. A garden that includes colourful perennials like native Agastache and sunflowers not only looks gorgeous, but also attracts pollinators which

are essential to plant reproduction. Incorporate natural elements like rocks and trees to maintain the character of your property.

3. Socialize fireside

Before you enjoy the crackle of a fire, choose the setup that’s right for you and your space. If you want to focus on socializing, get a gas

fire table so flames are one press of a button away. Gather to indulge in s’mores and when the night is done simply turn off the fire. If you want a smoky aroma but your cottage is on rocky retreat, a portable wood firepit from a store like Home Hardware provides ambiance regardless of landscape. And if you

prefer to sit around a traditional firepit, work with local experts on the build to ensure it meets safety standards.

Roofs & Walls Exterior Trim Soffits & Fascia Gutter Guards Eavestroughs Repair Services

Maintenance Services Metal Replacement Barn Board Replacement Liquid Rubber Sealant Pressure Washing Screwnailing

SERVING ALL OF ONTARIO Barns, Houses & Buildings. All Your Painting Needs. CONTACT HENRY WATSON 519.694.3045 theresurfacer1@gmail.com theresurfacer.ca

ROOFING LOCKSMITHS BLINDS • SHADES • SHUTTERS

LANDSCAPING BUILDING PAINTING LAWN CARE 519-733-6379

• FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION • FREE DELIVERY & INSTALLATION • BEST PRICES, SELECTION & SERVICE • NO MINIMUM ORDER REQUIREMENT • IN BUSINESS SINCE 1994 WWW.HERITAGEHOUSEKINGSVILLE.CA

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING ACCOUNTING BAKER TILLY TRILLIUM LLP 39 MAIDSTONE AVE. E., ESSEX, ON N8M 2J3 ED FUERTH, CPA, CA PARTNER T 519.776.6262 X301 F 519.776.1293 C 519.562.0489 E efuerth@bakertilly.ca W www.bakertilly.ca

there, but also ensures that renters can securely and easily access the property. For simple fixes or new builds, you can find Home Hardware dealers who can help in cottage communities across Canada. Feature / Business Directory I 21 Thursday, April 13, 2023 I Essex Free Press ACCOUNTING LAWYER ACCOUNTING

Knights of Columbus celebrates Good Friday with community fish fry

1930 Durant back on the road

If you stood at the Four Corners in uptown Leamington in the late 1950s, Reverend Carmen Aegius and her husband John Novosky of Orillia, Ontario, are the proud owners of this 1930 Durant sedan built in Leaside (Toronto) 93 years ago. They bought it last year and drove it in their local July 1 Canada Day parade to the great delight of everyone who saw them.

After buying it, they met Bob Hamilton, who rebuilt the car in the early 1990s with a modern Chevrolet V8 engine and other upgrades as well as modern wheels and tires. It drives like a new car!

Carmen wanted something special on top of the radiator cap. John tells the story: “Carmen did research to find something suitable for our rad cap (not a naked woman!). She discovered this one for sale. As the British royal family were fond of the pheasant as a hood ornament (Queen Elizabeth had one on her Range Rover,) we figured this was suitable for a car built in the Dominion of Canada in 1930.”

With King Charles III now on the throne, if His Majesty ever pays a visit to Canada, he would be thrilled to ride in this royal red automobile built when his mother was only four years old!

I’m always looking for stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca

contact@essexfreepress.com issuu.com/essexfreepress

www.essexfreepress.com

by Sylene Argent

Around 250 individuals enjoyed a homemade fish fry dinner that the members of the Knights of Columbus (3305) at Holy Name of Jesus Church prepared in celebration of Good Friday.

Typically, the local Knights of Columbus group prepares a Friday evening fish fry once per month, often teaming up with local organizations to help fundraise for their community-minded causes. Last Friday’s dinner, however, was held in celebration of the Easter season and as a fundraiser supporting local Knights of Columbus initiatives. That could include offering bursaries for local students and supporting

young adults involved with the NET Ministries program that allows these individuals the opportunity to promote the Catholic faith.

Dennis Kiteley, member of the local Knights of Columbus organization, said the local K of C is always eager to partner with local organizations to host the monthly fish fries inside the

hall at Holy Name of Jesus Church. Most recently, the K of C teamed up with the local Boy Scouts to host a dinner, which brought in a large crowd of supporters.

“It is usually a good crowd,” Kiteley said of the turnout at the fish fry events, adding the next dinner event will take place on Friday, April 28.

Voice Of Inspiration

“Everyone is afraid of something. We fear things because we value them. We fear losing people because we love them. We fear dying because we value being alive. Don’t wish you didn’t fear anything. All that would mean is that you didn’t feel anything.”

~ Cassandra Clare

Gleaming red Durant fit for King or Queen!

Lakeshore Canadiens leading the series -

he had to, giving the Canadiens the 1-0 series lead.

It was a short turnaround with the teams meeting again Thursday, this time in Lakeshore. Much like Tuesday’s game, the Canadiens opened the scoring, with a lone goal in the first period. The 73’s, however, responded by tying the goal in the second period. Not satisfied there, the 73’s continued to cause havoc and frustrate the Canadiens. They went on to score three goals in the final frame, securing the 4-1 win and tying the series.

In Essex on Saturday, the teams were quick to open the scoring in the first period, and the offense was on full display. The 73’s opened the scoring six-minutes into the game. Closing out the frame, however, the Canadiens were quick to respond, scoring a pair of goals.

by Garrett Fodor

The top seeded Essex 73’s team is battling to keep alive in the playoffs, and is looking to extend its season after falling behind in the Finals to its rival, the Lakeshore Canadiens.

The pair of rivals kicked off the series Tuesday night in Essex. It was a debut to forget for the top seeded 73’s who dropped game one, 5-1. The Canadiens opened the scoring and controlled the pace of play early and often. Canadiens’ goalie, Romano Liburdi, shut the door when

Stymied in the second period, the teams had a crucial third period. Issac Legood opened the scoring for the 73’s two-minutes into the third period, tying the game and breathing life back into the 73’s team. The wind, however, was taken out of their sails just as quickly. Just two minutes later, the Canadiens beat Adrian McBride, restoring the lead and eventually taking game three with a score of 3-2.

Closing out the week, just 24-hours later, the Canadiens hosted the 73’s for game four. The lone goal in the first period came from Canadiens’ forward, Aedan Sullivan. Coming out of the intermission, the 73’s quickly paced

the Canadiens; coming out with a jump, winning battles, and eventually getting away with the puck and earning a pair of goals from Jack Fuerth and Conor Debinski to make it 2-1.

In the final 70-seconds, however, the Canadiens restored their faith and took a pin to the 73’s fans in attendance. They scored a pair of goals in the final minute of the second period, to make it 3-2 heading into the intermission.

Closing out the frame, the Canadiens would shut the door on any potential talk of a comeback, scoring three unanswered goals, with the Canadiens prevailing 6-2 and taking a commanding 3-1 series lead.

Essex will face Lakeshore on home ice on Tuesday, April 11 for game five.

Iler Lodge, Harrowood residents receive special Easter gift

wine bottles and transform them into vases with pipecleaner flowers for the residents at Harrowood, in addition to Easter cups and colouring sheets for the seniors at Iler Lodge, coupled with homemade chocolates from Abode Respite Services Inc. Leading up to the Easter holiday, Atkinson approached LIFE Day Respite Program and Lola’s Round Table and asked its clients, in addition to the

youths from Once Upon A Time Child Care Centre and First Steps Childcare Centre, to put their creative talents to work in completing colouring sheets and creating cards.

Atkinson was proud of the local partnerships to create these gifts for the local seniors and hopes to recruit their help for a similar giftgiving campaign for Word Senior Citizen’s Day in August.

by Sylene Argent

Photos submitted

Following the success, and community support, in creating and providing Valentine’s gifts for residents at Iler Lodge,

Essex Mayor Sherry

Bondy and resident Nicole Atkinson planned another gift-giving venture to celebrate Easter.

Community contributors helped to decorate empty

Foodland – Fresh food. Friendly neighbours.

Essex Foodland – formerly known as Sadler’s – has been part of Essex for many years. The store has always been a one-stop-shop for freshly baked goods, carefully cut meats, a deli with a fine selection and convenient meals, fresh salads, produce, and so much more. We pride ourselves on our unique selections and high-quality foods to deliver a healthy and wholesome experience, whether in store or at the dinner table. For every occasion, we prepare and provide delicious entertainment trays, which really showcase our talent and commitment to service. However extensive the services we provide, at the heart

of its operation is a talented and attentive staff, who go above and beyond to exceed expectations and serve the community. We’re here to offer advice, answer questions, and be your friendly neighbour next door.

When I moved to Essex County to step into my new role on May 8 2022, I was pleasantly overwhelmed by the town’s warm and welcoming community and generous show of support. I’d like to-take this opportunity to express my utmost gratitude to the people of Essex and the staff at Essex Foodland for making this the most wonderful experience it can be.

– Robert Reid, Owner