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Vol. 141
A LOOK INSIDE County Council Notes for Wednesday, December 15
Thursday, December 23, 2021
Issue No. 49
Harrow Kinsmen Christmas parade bigger and better in 2021
PAGE 2 ______________ Town of Essex Council meeting, December 20 PAGE 3 _______________ 2021 Holiday Greetings Special Section Vol. 2 PAGES 7 - 21 _______________ Reaume family and 73’s partner to raise awareness for CMHA PAGE 26 _______________ McGregor’s Stroll by Santa a big hit PAGE 30 _______________ EDHS Grade 11 Leadership Class collects over 5200 books for organizations PAGE 32 ________________
Looking For A Good Home
“MEUZZA” See Page 5 for adoption info.
by Sylene Argent The spirit of the holiday season was in the air on Saturday night for the annual Harrow Kinsmen Christmas parade. “It went fantastic,” Harrow Kinsmen Vice Chairperson, Danny Sauve, said. “Everybody had a good time.” He has heard and read a lot of good feedback from within the community since the big event took place. Overall, Sauve was pleased with how the parade turnout, noting there were more floats along the procession that winds through the streets of Harrow Centre than there have been in the past and many residents lining the street to take in the spectacle. He suspects individuals and families were looking for something to do as the pandemic
continues and was pleased the event could provide some holiday cheer. “We were happy to maybe lift Christmas spirits here,” Sauve said. In addition to enjoying the many floats, and perhaps getting their hands on a piece of candy or a treat, Sauve said the parade was also a great way for attendees to admire the work done through the Harrow Streetscape project, which the Town is overseeing as a way to enhance the downtown area. He suspects the Harrow Kinsmen Club has been hosting the parade for around 25-years and continues to do so as part of its motto of, “Serving the community’s greatest need.” Sauve did wish more kids would have taken advantage of the meet and greet with Santa that evening, and noted all COVID protocols were
followed in doing so. He was happy, however, area youths were able to see the big man in red during the parade. In the near future, Sauve is looking forward to releasing the top three float winners. He thanked the Town of Essex and the OPP for helping to close the roads and keep everyone safe during the parade. “I appreciate everybody who came out to participate in the parade. It was great,” he said. Councillor Sherry Bondy agreed the parade turned out fantastically. “The Harrow Kinsmen did a great job.” She was pleased to see members of Council in the parade, with area firefighters. “Despite the cooler weather, it was well attended,” she said.
2 I News Essex Free Press
I Thursday, December 23, 2021
County Council Notes for Wednesday, December 15 by Sylene Argent 2022 EWSWA Budget adds 4.1 percent increase for fourth year in a row Council for the County of Essex approved a 4.1 percent increase to the Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority (EWSWA) 2022 Budget from what was assessed to Windsor and the seven County municipalities for 2021, totaling $536,140. The total municipal assessment of $13,612,740 is based on a fixed cost allocation, calculated on population and a Total Waste Management Fee of $40 per tonne fee for refuse delivered for disposal for $198,000 from the City and County. Combined, the overall 2022 assessment to Windsor and the County municipalities will be $13,810,740. This is the fourth consecutive year EWSWA has added a 4.1 percent increase. EWSWA plans to add a 4.1 percent increase for a ten-year period, ending in 2027, in order to achieve a balanced budget. Michelle Bishop, General Manager for EWSWA, explained the 2022 increase represents $246,250 for County of Essex municipalities, which is in addition to the $6,037,720 that was budgeted to be assessed to those municipalities for 2021. This is in addition to the $289,890 for the City of Windsor, which is in addition to the $7,038,880 that was budgeted to be assessed to Windsor for 2021. In addition, she said, the City of Windsor is forecasted to be assessed an additional $88,000 related to the estimated increase in the amount of refuse delivered for disposal from 55,800 tonnes budgeted in 2021 to 58,000 tonnes estimated for 2022. County municipalities are forecasted to be assessed an additional $110,000 related to the estimated increase in the amount of refuse delivered for disposal from 50,600 tonnes budgeted in 2021 to 53,350 tonnes estimated for 2022. This totals $198,000 combined. At the November 2 meeting, the EWSWA Board of Directors approved the budget recommendations, which included the 2022 Expenditure and Revenue budget estimate figures, excluding the municipal Total Waste Management
Fee (Tip Fee) and the municipal Fixed Cost Assessment; an increase in the Total Waste Management Fee by $1 per tonne to $40 per tonne; and a $429,740 increase to the fixed cost assessment to Windsor and the seven County municipalities, which was based on population per the 2016 census. The fixed cost assessment portion for Essex is an increase of $22,016 for a total of $479,362 for 2022. The Board also approved the fee schedule; that any resultant surplus from 2021 operations be contributed to, or funded by, the Rate Stabilization Reserve, and that any resultant surplus or deficit from 2022 operations be contributed to, or funded by, the Rate Stabilization Reserve, the Report to County Council notes. Bishop added EWSWA expected to acquire a draw from the Rate Stabilization Reserve of just over $2.5M in 2021. “We are very pleased to announce, we actually will be recording a surplus of approximately $1.6M. So, those funds will be returned to the Rate Stabilization Reserve and used to fund future year operations.” The commodity prices, for the sale of the blue box material, as a result of supply chain issues and COVID, has skyrocketed in 2021, and has resulted in a significant increase over EWSWA’s budget. In addition, EWSWA received around half-a-million dollars more in steward blue box funding. Bishop is estimating, for the first-half of 2022, commodity prices will remain strong. “We are expecting approximately a $3.4M increase in non-municipal revenue. All that, combined with the 4.1 percent increase from the municipalities, result in a projected deficit, or draw from the Rate Stabilization Reserve, for 2022 of approximately $1.2M.” Renewal agreement for Intermunicipal Provincial Offences Court Services authorized Essex County Council authorized the execution of an Intermunicipal Provincial Offences Court Services for the third Renewal Agreement with the City of Windsor for the period of January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2026.
Emergency Management 2021 Status Report and Compliance updated County Council approved the composition of the Essex County Emergency Management Program Management Committee; received the updated 2021 Hazard Identification Risk Assessment for the County of Essex; authorized the Emergency Measures Coordinator to submit the annual Emergency Management Program Statement of Completion for 2021; and enacted By-Law 2021-36 to adopt a Revised Emergency Management Program for the County of Essex. Essex Windsor EMS (EWEMS) Chief Bruce Krauter said this is an annual report, in compliance with legislation. One of the main components is a hazard identification risk analysis, and to seek approval of the composition of the Essex County Emergency Management Program Committee. Emergency Management Coordination is undertaken prior to, during, and after any type of large emergency disaster or incidents. The pillars of any emergency-management are prevention, mitigation, preparedness and planning, response and recovery, and education and notification, Krauter said. Every municipality has to have an Emergency Management Program Committee, which was looked at this year and further updated. EWEMS to proceed with ordering seven ambulances for $1,415,624 County Council gave approval to Essex Windsor EMS (EWEMS) to proceed with the 2022 ordering of seven Crestline Coach Ltd. Type III ambulances, for a total purchase price of $1,415,624, plus HST to update some of its existing fleet. The Report to County Council notes the Essex Windsor EMS 2022 approved budget includes the purchase of seven ambulances at a budgeted amount of $1,233,050 and a corresponding transfer from reserve to fully offset the capital
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Essex Free Press
Monday, December 20, 2021
by Sylene Argent By-Law to establish water and wastewater rates passed Essex Council received Environmental Services report, “2022 Water and Wastewater Rates” and passed By-Law Number 2107, being a by-law to amend By-Law 1992 that establishes water and sanitary sewer rates and charges. In the Report to Council, it notes on February 16, 2021, Council received a presentation regarding the completion of a rate study from Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. that determined the rates required for 2021 to 2030. The proposed 2022 rates include a 2 percent adjustment to the base rate for all Wards in both water and wastewater, the Report to Council notes. The water base rate for all four Wards is $20.49. The volume rate for water in Wards 1 and 2 is proposed to be increased by 0.7 percent at $1.47. Ward 3 and 4 is proposed to be increased by 1.2 percent at $1.67. The wastewater base rate in Ward 1 is $21.52, $22.59 in Ward 3, and $21.52 in Ward 4. The volume rates for wastewater also have proposed increases in the individual Wards – 2 percent in Ward 1 at $1.50, 3.1 percent in Ward 3 at $2.34, and 3.0 percent in Ward 4 at $2.05. Ward 2 wastewater services and rates are provided from the Town of Amherstburg. Councillor Sherry Bondy said, she wanted it confirmed that dollars collected through water and wastewater rates cannot be used to subsidize general taxes or parks. Kevin Girard, Director of Infrastructure, said water and wastewater are not funded through taxes, but by these rates. The money cannot move to fund roads or parks. Bondy also asked if there was a way the water billing could be done in-house, and wondered if that would be a way to look at cost-savings. CAO Doug Sweet said the Director of Corporate Services/Treasurer, Kate Giurissevich, is looking at all different options for the future. Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche said billing water in-house was looked at several years ago, with a costcomparison. He believes, at that time, it would have cost almost twice as much to have that done in-house than contracted out. Councillor Joe Garon asked how the rates are calculated. Girard noted the way the rates are calculated, includes using improvements, operation and capital budgets, and anticipated use over the next ten-years.
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The Town estimates consumption, based on the average experienced in the past, as well as assumptions for the future. The rates are then calculated for actual costs. 2022 Fee Schedule for Colchester Harbour approved Council adopted the proposed 2022 fee schedule for the Colchester Harbour, which includes the addition of “Commercial Operations Unrelated to Direct Harbour Use Rate,” as well as an increase to the minimum footage on Dock B, from 15 feet to 20 feet. The Report to Council notes that because Council adopted the “Short-Term Rentals and Commercial Operations at the Colchester Harbour” at the December 3 meeting, the Colchester Harbour fee schedule needed to be updated to include the new commercial fee category. This is a $73.50 fee. It adds the minimum charge per foot on Dock B, from 15 feet to 20 feet, in 2022 was recommended as this dock was used for smaller fishing boats in the past. With recent upgrades and the adding electrical and water supply, administration noticed an increase in the size of the boats utilizing this dock, in addition to an increase in water and electrical expenses, and an increase in slip requests by boaters. This change will affect seven existing boaters, if they return in 2022, the Report to Council notes. Site Specific Zoning Amendments for 27 Maple Avenue, 2151 Roseborough Road approved Essex Council adopted Bylaw 2105, to amend Bylaw Number 1037 for the property at 27 Maple Avenue to permit a semi-detached dwelling; and Bylaw 2106, to amend By-law Number 1037 for the property at 2151 Roseborough Road, to permit a sit-down restaurant. Council held a statutory special meeting to discuss both of these requests, and hear public feedback, on December 6. Both lots are vacant and are located in Harrow. As discussed at the December 6 meeting, the 27 Maple Avenue lot is currently zoned Residential District 1.1, low density housing, which is the type of zoning surrounding the lot, in addition to Commercial District 2.2. The R1.1 zoning allows one single-detached dwelling as the main use. The applicant wants to build a semi-detached dwelling to provide long-term rental accommodations geared to seniors looking to downsize and wish to reside in Harrow. The owner is not intending to establish second dwelling units within the basement of the proposed dwelling units, the Report to Council notes. A second dwelling unit, however, may be constructed in each dwelling unit or in an ancillary structure, according to Town policy. To prevent this, administration recommended a restriction on the addition of a second dwelling unit within a semi-detached dwelling unit or within an accessory or ancillary structure. Bylaw 2105 amends Bylaw 1037 to allow a semi-detached dwelling as a main use on the subject property, subject to all 7 building regulations for .2 c Residential District 1.1 De pm (R.1.) and adds a restriction , y 5 a ly on the addition of a second p d p sa n on am o dwelling unit within a i ict
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4 I Opinion Essex Free Press
Editorial &Opinion
I Thursday, December 23, 2021
Howling at the Moon ••• Comment by Sylene Argent ••• Have you noticed all of the Christmas lights?
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When I was a kid, I looked forward to driving around with my family at nighttime leading up to Christmas, knowing there were going to be many homes lit up with amazing light displays. Getting to see all of those lights was certainly a wonderful way to experience the magic of the holiday season. It may seem unimportant, but I think getting to see beautiful light displays is something that still makes most of us smile, even as adults. And in some way, awakens that youthful spirit within us, who is enthralled by the magic of the season. I got to do some nighttime driving recently, and I have to say, Essex residents, you have outdone yourselves. I could not believe the number of homes that had beautiful, sparkling, twinkling lights of varying colours on my travels. It has been some time since I have been able to enjoy such a sight. I would say a good 10-years or more. I remember thinking years ago, when I first noticed there was a decline in the number of homes that were decorated for the holiday season, that it likely had something to do with the everincreasing hydro rates. And it made me sad then, because I think looking at holiday lights is something most anyone can enjoy. If anything, just seeing all those lights against the night sky is
breathtaking. So, I was completely blown away while I was driving recently, and it actually made my night to know that so many people put so much effort into decorating the exterior of their homes for the holiday season. I even travelled down County Road 12 recently, and I could not believe how many homes had holiday lights up and shining, down a side road. It was absolutely beautiful, leading all the way into McGregor. And much to my surprise, there are many homes in McGregor lit up for the occasion, as well. And this is certainly in conjunction with the many homes that have been decorated in Essex Centre and other areas throughout the municipality as well. I am not sure if this resurgence in putting up those exterior holiday decorations has anything to do with homeowners wanting to enlighten the spirits of those who drive by during the pandemic or if it has something to do with the Town’s fairly new holiday light competition, but whatever the reason, it was so nice to see so many homes celebrating Christmas, the holiday season, and winter. A few weeks ago, I wrote in this column how I was finding it difficult to get into the holiday spirit this year. And that is something not typical of me, because I truly do enjoy Christmas. Seeing all of those lights
has certainly stirred the spirit of the holiday season within me and I am grateful for that. Sometimes it is the little things in life that mean so much. And although some may see those displays as just lights, or a burden to put up or take down, it symbolizes a sense of community, the spirit of the season, and an effort to briefly entertain others as they drive-by. It is hard to believe 2021 is already almost done. The days certainly flew by quickly this year. In no way, does it feel like we put out the first paper of 2021 like 49 issues ago. This was certainly not an easy year for anyone, but you know what, the community really prevailed, despite there being a lot of challenges, barriers to overcome, and twists and turns to navigate. So, I am going to use these light displays as a beacon that symbolizes the wrapping up of this year and the beginning of the next. Despite the excitement, I am very ready for some time off and I’m looking forward to having time to rest, and maybe tackling a few selfdriven projects in the meantime. So, in this very last column for the year, I wish you all a very merry Christmas, happy holidays, and a very happy New Year.
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Letter to the Editor Thank you to all the charitable people of Essex. A deep appreciation I want to extend to this great town, at Chrismas. My name is Eddie, born in Windsor, in 1962, but moved to British Columbia in 1991 and this is my first Christmas back, since. I am visiting my parents, at their new home in
Essex, and I volunteered to man the Salvation Arm Kettle, at Foodland, on Talbot Street. While doing so, I was pleasantly surprised to experience so much kindness, love, and generosity I have felt all year, anywhere, in Canada. A heartfelt thank you for spreading such cheer. God Bless you, one and all. Eddie Mathers
Thursday, December 23, 2021
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Essex Free Press
Essex Council Notes for Monday, December 20, 2021... semi-detached dwelling unit or within an accessory or ancillary structure, the Report to Council notes. In regards to the 2151 Roseborough Road lot, information shared at the December 6 meeting noted the property is 3.89 acres of vacant, industrial lands. It is zoned Manufacturing District (M2.1) for General Industrial Uses, and is subject to a Site Specific Zoning Exception for a drive-through restaurant/food outlet, but exclusively on a corner lot. The surrounding area includes residential, manufacturing, municipal parklands, and future residential development. The amendment request is to add a site specific zoning use, one sit down restaurant, which would serve the manufacturing businesses there. Development down 78 percent in November, compared to the same month in 2020 Council received the development overview report, which noted total construction value for November 2021, including all new and expanding commercial, industrial, institutional, and residential developments requiring a building permit totalled $5,748,100. This is down 78 percent from the same month in 2020. It adds the average sale price for a dwelling in November of 2021 was $475,289 in Wards 1 and 2, compared to $366,945 in November of 2020. The average sale price for a dwelling in November of 2021 was $475,621 in Wards 3 and 4, compared to $469,891 in the same month of 2020. Director of Development Services, Lori Chadwick, said it was not long ago when administration brought forward amendments to the Zoning By-Law to permit
Hearing tests, hearing aids, wax removal, and speech therapy
second dwelling units in agricultural districts and certain residential districts. She said there have been numerous inquiries to the Town on this amendment and meetings with interested residents. She was happy to share as of last month, the first building permit for a detached secondary dwelling unit was issued. She added the Building Department is currently reviewing another detached secondary dwelling unit application. Based on that, and because secondary dwelling units are exempt from Development Charges, Chadwick said administration recommends six be forecasted to be built in 2022 and that Development Charges be forecasted to be waived for six of these units. NoM: persistent dog barking Councillor Sherry Bondy brought forward the Notice of Motion she introduced at the December 6 meeting, which asked Council to have a discussion regarding persistent dog barking and the negative impact it may have on the quality of life for residents of the Town of Essex. She also wanted to talk about how complaints regarding this matter are to be enforced in accordance with the Town of Essex Noise By-Law. Bondy said a few times over the past few months, she has received complaints from residents, primarily in Ward 3, regarding dogs barking all the time. Residents, she said, have called the police and the Town’s By-Law Officers, and they get pointed in different directions. “I don’t know what the solution is, and I am not sure if it is something that can be added to our Animal Control Services. I know it sounds trivial, but if you have ever lived next door to a dog that barks constantly, it can really have a negative impact on somebody’s quality of life,” Bondy said. She also searched out the Top Calls for Service as outlined in the minutes of recent Essex Police Services Board meetings, and noted the Town of Essex has a lot of by-law calls. She thought Council could look at the issue. “To me, it means that our police are doing a lot of by-law work,” she said, noting she realizes the Town does not have a by-law officer in the evenings or on the weekends. Perhaps looking at that would open the OPP up to do more traffic enforcement. She said police and By-Law Officers are responding to a lot of calls and cannot get on top of the issues. Mayor Larry Snively said he and CAO Doug Sweet talked about the issue and noted the Town does have a By-Law Officer during the day. After hours, he strongly
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believes by-law enforcement becomes a police issue. If there is an issue, police, he said, should respond to the complaints. Sweet added the previous Friday, Town staff did meet with the OPP to go over the Town’s by-laws in general. The general practice will be, if there is an instance during regular business hours, the Town’s By-Law officials will attend. If it is after hours or weekends, it becomes a police matter. The OPP is also creating a tracking sheet to give to the Town on a monthly basis, so the addresses of where they are going to are known. In terms of dogs barking, Sweet said the Town does not have a solution for that yet, but the Animal Control Officer may be brought in to see what his scope of work may be. Both Snively and Sweet believe the Town is headed in the right direction on the matter. Bondy suggested the Town also do some public education on its by-laws. She is glad to see the conversation on the matter has been started. Council moved the recommendation.
Pet Of The Week: Meuzza Meuzza is a timid, vocal, young girl, who is looking for a furever home. She needs some time to get comfortable around new people and to settle into new spaces. She loves having her head scratched. She likes to spend her free time lounging in small spaces (a cardboard box will do just the trick) and has no problem doing her own thing while you’re occupied. 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
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6 I News / Community Essex Free Press
I Thursday, December 23, 2021
County Council Notes for December 15... Councillor Bondy hosts second annual Continued from Page 2 cost. It adds, with the Essex-Windsor EMS vehicle, one administration vehicle, a online meet and greet with Santa Ambulance 2022 Procurement Approval increase in pricing, it will be necessary to adjust the transfer from reserve to fully cover the negative variance The 2021 purchase of seven ambulances was $1,242,623, plus HST. The total amount of the 2022 ambulance purchase is $1,415,624, plus HST. This is a14 percent increase. This year’s quote is $202,232, plus HST per ambulance. This includes the chassis, the conversion options, five-year warranty, and shipping. The Report to County Council notes EWEMS currently has a fleet of 39 front line ambulances and 14 emergency response vehicles. This is in addition to one logistics
special operations trailer, a hazmat trailer, and one off-road transport vehicle. EWEMS dry cleaning contract awarded County Council awarded the Essex Windsor EMS (EWEMS) Uniform Dry Cleaning Contract to Blondie Cleaners, for the period from 2022 to 2024. This will be at a base cost of $992,260.44, plus HST. There is the inclusion of a possible twoyear extension. Essex County Council authorized the Warden and the Clerk to execute the agreement on behalf of the Corporation of the County of Essex.
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by Sylene Argent For the second year, in a row, Essex Councillor Sherry Bondy arranged an online meet and greet between Santa Claus and all the good little boys and girls in the Town of Essex. On Friday evening, Bondy hosted an online forum with the big guy in red, and one of his hardworking elves. Leading up to the virtual meet and greet, parents sent along a message to Santa on behalf of their children, so he could respond with a special message for them, live from Bondy’s social media account. “I was able to meet with Santa and he said some names of little boys and girls in our community who were good this year,” Bondy noted. Bondy hosted the event, as a way to connect local youths with Santa ahead of Christmas Eve, his busiest night of the year. The online event allowed the youths to get a specialized message from Santa, without having to meet him in person, during the pandemic. “It was really great,” she said. “I am just really grateful to the elf and Santa for taking the time out for the children in our
Photo submitted by Essex Councillor Sherry Bondy. Pictured are Santa and one of his elves during the virtual meet and greet Councillor Sherry Bondy hosted on Friday evening.
community, and I hope we can do it again in 2022,” Bondy said. “What is really cool about it is that it is a neat way for children to safely connect with Santa from their home.” Bondy said there was a little bit less participation this year than last, but that
was likely due to their being community events offered for families to enjoy this season. Those in Essex who missed out on the event can email Bondy at sbondy@ essex.ca to get a generic message sent from Santa for their children to enjoy.
Thursday, December 23, 2021
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2021 Holiday Greetings I 7
3 ways to safely brighten your holiday season... PAGE 8 Great homemade food gifts... PAGE 10 Santa’s Cause for kids still going strong... PAGE 16 Santa comes to Essex to enjoy a pancake breakfast...
PAGE 18 & MORE...
Family-friendly activities for New Year’s Day... PAGE 12
8 I 2021 Holiday Greetings
Essex Free Press
3 ways to safely brighten your holiday season (NC) Many of us may be putting more into holiday decorating this year in anticipation of hosting family and friends over the festive season. This means decorations of all kinds strung around the home and lights that twinkle and keep everything aglow. While bringing out new and old decorations this year, it’s a good time to brush up on some important electrical safety tips: Lighting that’s merry and bright Before choosing the right places for your light decorations, take a moment to check for any damage after a year or two being tucked away — including cords, plugs, exposed wires and ornaments. If anything is broken, don’t use it and replace right away. As for the tree or setting up the mantle, be sure to choose the right light string. On packaging you’ll notice there’s direction for the lights’ use, either indoors or outdoors. Less is more Although you may want to deck the halls more than last year, remember that simple décor can go a long way. Pick a few statement items for bigger areas in the home, and don’t be afraid to leave smaller areas untouched. As for plugging in lights, figurines and even toys for the kids, remember to not
overdo. If you can, avoid using extension cords and only plug in lights or decorations as needed. Too many things plugged into an outlet can lead to overloaded circuits overheating and possibly a fire. Keep kids involved An easy way to make sure little ones are getting in on the holiday decorating spirit is to ask for their advice on where things should be put, or even the right playlist to set the mood. Be sure to keep electrical decorations and cords out of the hands and mouths of children and pets, too. While some may wish the season lasted all year, holiday decorations aren’t designed for always-on or year-round use or display. So be sure to turn off and unplug any lights before going to bed or leaving the house or use an approved automatic timer to perform this task for you. Pack lights and ornaments safely to protect them from any potential damage while tucked away until next year. www.newscanada.com
Happy Holidays Wishing you a wealth of good friends the warmth of loved ones and the beauty of joy and wonder during this holiday season.
• Mayor Larry Snively • Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche • Councillor Morley Bowman • Councillor Joe Garon • Councillor Kim Verbeek • Councillor Steve Bjorkman • Councillor Chris Vander Doelen • Councillor Sherry Bondy • and Town Staff
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A guide to cooking with kids
Children may start their culinary careers crafting mud pies in their backyards, but that creativity and imagination soon may translate into foods they can actually eat. Many kids love cooking because it can be fun and messy, which are two qualities that children find hard to resist.
Parents can foster their children’s love of cooking and help them along the way with these tips. • Be patient. Going into the cooking experience knowing there will be a mess, typically when young children are involved, can help you prepare. Toddlers have not yet mastered manual dexterity, so they’re bound to spill and drop. Put a plastic tablecloth under the work area and on the floor to help catch what falls. Also, cooking with youngsters likely will take more time than it normally would, so set aside extra preparation and cooking time. • Teach kids good hygiene. Hygiene is important and can prevent foodborne illnesses. Make sure everyone involved in cooking, including children, washes his or her hands before cooking begins and continues to do so after handling foods, particularly raw meat and poultry. Hair should be tied back, and separate prep surfaces should be designated for produce and meats. • Assign age-appropriate tasks. Consider age and maturity levels when
assigning tasks in the kitchen. Even children as young as 3-years-old can chop food if they are provided a serrated butter knife with a rounded point and soft vegetables or fruits. This helps teach knife skills that kids can develop more thoroughly in the future. Children can mix and add ingredients as well. As kids get older, parents can decide the right time to let them use the stove. • Experiment with dough. Kids can have a blast with dough, particularly rolling out pie crusts and pasta. They also can make dumplings and then fill them with vegetables. Many cookware retailers sell small rolling pins that are easy for kids to handle. • Practice measuring together. Let children read the recipes and be in charge of portioning out ingredients. This reinforces classroom lessons about temperature, ratios
and fractions. • Move on to more sophisticated tasks. Around age eight or nine, children can take on jobs like opening cans, scooping batter, pounding poultry, proofing yeast, skewering kabobs, and slicing bread, according to cooking educator Julie Negrin. Negrin notes that children between the ages of 10 and 12 can start working independently in the kitchen so long as an adult is in the home. Ultimately, children can cook without close supervision. Children also can be involved in cooking by helping to draft shopping lists and taking trips to the supermarket. This shows kids the complete process of gathering ingredients for meals, what they cost and how they are made before foods make it to the dinner table.
metrocreativeconnection.com
Essex Dental Centre A Smile Means More Now Than Ever. Thanks for trusting us with yours! We wish you a safe and merry holiday season!
DR. ARNIE MIRZA DR. STEFANO STOREY DR. KYLE REGNIER DR. NIKOLINA MILIDRAG DR. SHELBY KOSCHUCK
14 Gosfield Townline E. Essex, ON N8M 2R5 essexdentalcentre@hotmail.com
519-776-7319 To Our Valued Clients At Christmas We’re hoping that your holiday, Is as special as you are in every way Because one thing that we know is true Is that there are no nicer folks than you!
Merry Christmas and many thanks for your valued patronage. Short Cuts Salon: Ann Marie Desjardins, Sara Vermast, Cindy Meloche, Lori Froese, Jessica Garant, Karly Pillon, and Dayna Delmore. Talbot Trail: Cassie Del Mul
Terry Lynn and Terry Therrien would like to say thanks to our loyal clientele and hard working staff. Happy holidays to everyone!
114 Talbot St. N., Essex 519-776-9880 www.shortcutshairessex.com | www.talbottraildayspa.com
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Essex Free Press
Great homemade food gifts Gifts from the heart are among the most coveted and appreciated come the holiday season. Hobbyists from all walks of life can turn their passions into handmade gifts, but few gifts may be as welcomed as those that can be eaten. Cooking and baking ramps up during the holiday
season. People can turn extra time in the kitchen into opportunities to create festive treats that are ideal for gifting. But which items are the best of the best? Even though tastes are singular, these items will appeal to most foodies and others on your gift list. • Jams and preserves: Fruit jams and preserves are versatile foods. They are as at home on toast and biscuits as they are as fillings in cookies and tarts. Jams and preserves can be made with relatively few ingredients and work well with seasonal fruits. • Cinnamon rolls: Warm, sticky and full of aromatic spice, cinnamon rolls are the perfect comfort foods. These rolls do not typically have a long shelf life, so be sure to present them promptly before they get stale. • Pancakes (or cookies) in a jar: If you have a fantastic recipe that you can’t resist sharing, try turning it into a gift. Measure and package the ingredients into mason jars, tie with ribbons and include directions for preparation and cooking. • Mini bundt cakes: Fruit cakes may be a holiday standard, but bundt cakes make for great and traditional offerings as well. Miniature bundts filled with chocolate chips, dried fruits or even those soaked in a favorite boozybutter glaze can be moist and delicious. • Chocolate barks Seasonal or fudges:
flavours can come to life in chocolate treats. White chocolate filled with peppermint pieces or dark chocolate and cherry chunks are tasty pairings. Break apart portions of the bark or cut the fudge with cookie cutters and gift inside cello bags tied with ribbons or in cardboard candy boxes. • Cocktail syrups: Create spicy or sweet
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syrups that are tailor-made for enhancing cocktails. Anyone on your gift list can then become a master mixologist. • Shortbread cookie Circular ornaments: shortbread cookies can be decorated with royal icing to look like Christmas ornaments. They can be eaten or even placed on trees to complete holiday decor. • Festive cookie pops: Cookie pops can be made by mixing homemade or
pre-purchased crumbled cake with frosting or softened cream cheese and formed into balls. Insert a lollipop stick and dip the balls into melted chocolate or candy melts. Sprinkles, nonpareils or luster dust can be used to enhance the covered pops. Food gifts are perfect for the holiday season. Handmade treats from the heart show loved ones how just much you care. metrocreativeconnection.com
Thursday, December 23, 2021
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Simple one-pan meals make dinnertime a breeze (NC) Weeknights can be hectic, especially during the holidays. Fortunately, sheet-pan meals are a great way to easily include lots of nutritious veggies and lean proteins into your familyÕs dinners. Try this great Greek chicken recipe tonight and if youÕve got leftovers, make a pot of rice and serve the leftover chicken and vegetables on top of a rice bowl for the next day. One-Pan Greek Chicken Dinner Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 1 hour Serves: 6 Ingredients: ¥ 1 ½ lb (680 g) mini potatoes, or larger potatoes cut in half ¥ 1 red onion, cut into 8 wedges (leave stem intact)
Greetings,
Friends!
Just a note of thanks for your loyal patronage this past year!
Nader’s Mart
296 Talbot St. N., Essex 519-776-5035
¥ 1 large sweet yellow pepper, chopped ¥ 2 cloves garlic, minced ¥ 2 tbsp olive oil ¥ ½ tsp black pepper ¥ PC World of Flavours Greek ßattened whole chicken ¥ 10 cocktail tomatoes or 2 cups grape tomatoes, cut in half ¥ 1/3 cup prepared tzatziki sauce ¥ 1 lemon, cut into wedges ¥ Pinch of salt ¥ ¼ cup chopped fresh oregano (optional) ¥ 1/3 cup Kalamata olives (optional) Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 400¼F (200¼C). Stir together potatoes, red onion, yellow pepper, garlic, oil,
black pepper and salt in a large roasting pan. 2. Bake 15 minutes. Remove from oven; place chicken, breast-side up, over top of vegetables. Return to oven; bake until chicken is browned, juices run clear when chicken is pierced and instant-read thermometer reads 165¼F (74¼C) when inserted in thickest part; 45 minutes to 1 hour. 3. Remove from oven. Transfer chicken to cutting board; let rest 10 minutes.
Cut into eight similar size pieces and arrange over vegetables in roaster. Top with tomatoes and olives (if using). Dollop with tzatziki and sprinkle with oregano (if using). Serve with lemon wedges. Nutritional information per 1/6 of recipe: calories 460; fat 24 g; sodium 960 mg; carbohydrates 29 g; dietary fibre 4 g; sugars 8 g; protein 33 g.
www.newscanada.com
“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” ~ Charles Dickens
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I Thursday, December 23, 2021
Family-friendly activities for New Year’s Day People spend so much time planning New Year’s Eve revelry that they may not consider that they have another day on the holiday calendar to enjoy after the clock strikes 12. New Year’s Day activities may differ significantly from the countdowns and parties of the night before, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be equally enjoyable. Chances are children are home from school for holiday breaks, meaning New Year’s Day activities should probably be family-friendly. Check out these family-friendly ways to spend New Year’s Day. • Catch (or play) a football game. New Year’s Day and football go hand in hand, and families can likely find a game on television to enjoy together. Of course, it’s also fun to burn off a few New Year’s Eve calories by playing a game of football in the backyard on January 1. • Host a New Year’s Day meal. Give people plenty of time to recover from last nights’s antics by inviting neighbors or friends and their children
over for a brunch, late lunch or early dinner. Potlucks are great for these occasions because no one will likely want to cook for a crowd. • Enjoy a movie marathon. Spend the day in comfortable clothes and make a new family tradition. Select one movie for each family member to watch and then cue up the streaming service or dust off that DVD player. Use holiday mugs for hot cocoa and dig into any leftovers from holiday dinners. If a marathon at home isn’t up your alley, check out the showings at a nearby theater and enjoy an afternoon at the cinema. • Take a hike. Enjoy the cold weather up close and personal with a hike
in the brisk air. State parks or nearby nature preserves may not be busy on January 1, making them an even more relaxing respite. • Tackle an organizational project. Get the whole family together and take on a project that has been pushed aside, such as organizing the garage or cleaning out the refrigerator. • Volunteer with a local charity. Give back to the community and start off the new year on a positive note by volunteering as a family. New Year’s Day presents an ideal opportunity to spend time together as a family. metrocreativeconnection.com
“Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas.” ~ Peg Bracken
Thursday, December 23, 2021
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Get to know Boxing Day
Many people may get their fill of boxes on Christmas Day. However, people living in certain countries, including Canada, know that there may be some more boxes in store on the day after Christmas as well. Boxing Day is an annual holiday celebrated in Canada on December 26. Canadians are not alone in celebrating Boxing Day, which is observed in Australia, the United Kingdom and New Zealand, among other countries. The origin story behind Boxing Day is not entirely known. One theory regarding those origins connect the holiday to 19th century England and the giving of boxes that included money, presents and/or food to British
servants on the day after Christmas. The servants had to work on Christmas while their employers celebrated, so they waited until the following day to celebrate with their families. The boxes were a token of appreciation and a way to make servants’ celebrations more bountiful and enjoyable. Another theory links Boxing Day to collection boxes for the poor. Long
known as a time of giving, the holiday season was a time to give to the poor. So when the boxes were opened on the day after Christmas, they were full and the money within them was then distributed to the less fortunate. Modern Boxing Day celebrations don’t resemble either theory of the day’s origins. In fact, modern Boxing Day more closely resembles Black
Friday, a retail holiday in the United States that marks the unofficial beginning of the holiday shopping season. Retailers discount items on Boxing Day, and the deals compel people across Canada to spend the day after Christmas shopping. Canadian soccer fans who are not excited by the idea of shopping on Boxing Day can celebrate like many of their British
“Christmas is a bridge. We need bridges as the river of time flows past. Today’s Christmas should mean creating happy hours for tomorrow and reliving those of yesterday.” ~ Gladys Bagg Taber
counterparts. In England, Boxing Day has become synonymous with European football, and the Premier League has ensured its fans can spend a good portion of Boxing Day watching the action on the pitch. This year’s
Boxing Day slate includes 10 matches. Boxing Day may not have maintained too significant a connection to its past. But the day remains one to look forward to in 2021. metrocreativeconnection.com
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I Thursday, December 23, 2021
Crustless pie a treat for those with gluten intolerance The holiday season is a popular time to entertain. Food is often a focal point of holiday season entertaining. Individuals who navigate food allergies or intolerances may shy away from certain celebrations out of fear that a nibble of this or a bite of that may trigger an allergic response. In such instances, concern about ingredients can cast a pall over normally festive occasions. Those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerances must be mindful of the foods they consume. Meals or desserts containing gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat, semolina, rye, barley, graham, spelt, farina, and more, can
trigger intestinal distress and other symptoms. With delicious pies, cakes and cookies on the holiday serving table, gluten is likely to make an appearance. However, with careful planning, people who cannot stomach foods that contain gluten can still indulge in their favorite holiday flavors. “Crustless Libby’s® Famous Pumpkin Pie” is a variation on traditional pumpkin pie served at Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. Without the crust, individuals who avoid gluten can still dive into that pumpkin-and-spice combination that’s so popular around the holiday season. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of Libby’s® Pumpkin.
Crustless Libby’s® Famous Pumpkin Pie Makes 8 servings - 3/4 cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger - 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves - 2 large eggs - 1 can (15 ounces) Libby’s® 100% Pure Pumpkin - 1 can (12 fluid ounces) Nestlé® Carnation Evaporated Milk - Nonstick cooking spray - Whipped cream (optional) 1. Preheat oven as directed below. Glass baking dishes without crust require a cooler oven, and in most cases, a longer baking time. 2. Spray baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or lightly grease bottom of baking pan or baking dish. 3. Mix sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in a small bowl. Beat eggs in a large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk. 4. Bake as directed below or until a knife inserted near center comes out clean. 5. Cool on wire rack for 2 hours. Serve immediately or refrigerate.
Cooking times
9-inch-round glass pie dish: 325 F; bake for 55 to 60 minutes 10-inch-round glass pie dish: 325 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes 8-inch-round cake pan: 350 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes 9-inch-round cake pan: 350 F; bake for 35 to 40 minutes 8-inch-square baking pan: 350 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes 8-inch-square glass baking dish: 325 F; 50 to 60 minutes 9-inch-square baking dish: 350 F; bake for 35 to 40 minutes 11x7-inch glass baking dish: 325 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes 13x9-inch baking pan: 350 F; bake for 35 to 40 minutes 13x9-inch glass baking dish: 325 F; bake for 40 to 45 minutes
metrocreativeconnection.com
Thursday, December 23, 2021
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Classic holiday films families can enjoy together The holiday season is steeped in tradition. Few traditions may elicit more collective belly laughs than holiday movie night, a tradition in millions of households across the globe. Families can consider these classic holiday films as they plan family movie night this holiday season. • “Miracle on 34th Street” (1947): This classic is centered around a man named “Kris Kringle” (Edmund Gwenn) who claims to be the real Santa Claus after a successful stint as a department store Santa in midtown Manhattan. A trial to determine if Mr. Kringle is telling the truth soon follows. This version of the tale has earned a 96 percent rating on the popular film review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. • “A Christmas Story” (1983): Though it airs all day long on Christmas on the cable television network TBS, families can get a head-start on that marathon and
watch the film uninterrupted whenever they choose. Families can laugh together as 9-year-old Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) hopes to unwrap his official Red Ryder BB gun on Christmas morning. The film, which boasts an 89 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, includes a memorable performance by Darren McGavin, who plays Ralphie’s father. • “Babes In Toyland” (1934): Also known as “March of the Wooden Soldiers,” this nearly century-old classic stars the legendary comedy duo Laurel and Hardy as two helpful tenants living in Mother Peep’s shoe in Toyland. • “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (1967): An animated version of the Dr. Seuss classic, this film has entertained scores of children since it was first released more than 50 years ago. • “Holiday Inn” (1942): Hollywood
legends Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire star in this classic that is perhaps most remembered for introducing the Irving Berlin class “White Christmas” to the masses. The film boasts a 100 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has something for fans of song, dance and romance. • “Arthur Christmas” (2011): Not all Christmas films date back to the 20th century. This animated tale tells the story of Arthur (voiced by James McAvoy), Santa’s youngest son who is thrust into the Christmas Eve business of delivering presents when his father fails to deliver a Windsor Heart Institute 2464 Howard Ave., Suite 201 Windsor, Ontario 519.977.6643
present to one child out of the hundreds of millions of kids on his list. • “A Christmas Carol” (1951): Many holiday season celebrants cannot imagine letting a season go by without watching at least one adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. The 1951 version is widely considered the most faithful to Dickens’ 1843 novella that recounts the story of Ebenezer Scrooge. Alastair Sim stars as Scrooge, and many consider his performance the best of any actor to take a turn as the notorious 19th century miser.
metrocreativeconnection.com
WHI - Essex 169 Talbot St. South Essex, Ontario 519.800.2535
Thank you ffor your continued ti d ttrustt in us. Watch for our new Essex location and expanded services coming in 2022. Have a safe and wonderful holiday season. www.windsorheart.org Holiday hours : 9:00 am to 4:00 pm – Essex Office will be closed Dec 24th-27th, open Dec 28th-30th, and closed Dec 31st-Jan 3rd. Office reopens on Jan 4th. Regular Office Hours : Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
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I Thursday, December 23, 2021
Santa’s Cause for kids still going strong in 20th year
by Sylene Argent For the past 20 years, the Santa’s Cause for Kids program has collected new, unwrapped gifts for children of families facing economically challenging times. And it seems the program gets stronger every year, with the great participation and support that continues to be shown
from area residents and businesses. Through this program, area residents and local shoppers are able to purchase a new, unwrapped gift at several local businesses, and place it in a collection depot for pick-up. On Friday morning, local firefighters with Essex Fire & Rescue and OPP officers collaborated efforts to go pick Continued on Page 17
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Santa’s Cause for kids still going strong in 20th year... appreciates the support the toy drive continues to receive, and is grateful the program is still running strong two decades after it was initiated. He said Essex is his hometown and he would not want to be anywhere else. The community is filled with generous people, who always rise to the
occasion and donate what they can, whenever there is a need. In addition to new, unwrapped gifts, gift cards were also collected for the older children, so that they will be able to purchase something of their liking. Some of the drop-off location included: The
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Essex Home Hardware, Dollar Tree, Ken Knapp Ford, the Harrow Dollar Discount, Atlas Tube, Ken Lapain & Sons, Peavey Mart, Delta Power Equipment, Canadian Tire, the Essex Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 201)
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THANKS FOR COMING ROUND! In the spirit of the holiday season, we’d like to extend our warm wishes to you—our customers, neighbors and friends. You make it all worthwhile for us, thanks! Visit our huge selection of British Foods and gifts. 71 Talbot St. N., Essex Call us 226.787.1244 up the new, unwrapped gifts that local residents and shoppers placed in the Santa’s Cause for Kids drop-off depots. After spending the morning collecting the donations from the area stores and businesses, new, unwrapped toys will be forwarded to the Essex Salvation Army, the Essex Area Food Bank, the St. Vincent de Paul chapters in Harrow and McGregor, and the Zeta Kappa Sorority for its Santa’s Sack program. The service organizations will sort and distribute the donations to
families facing economic hardships through their Christmas toy giving initiatives.
SAVOR THE SEASON
Any way you slice it, we’re fortunate to have great friends and customers like you. Thanks!
We hope this season satisfies your craving for a wonderful Christmas!
91 Talbot St. N., Essex 519-776-9966
Santa’s Cause for Kids Founder and Organizer, Essex (M) OPP Constable Joe Meloche,
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Santa’s Cause for kids still going strong in 20th year...
I Thursday, December 23, 2021
McGregor Squirettes serve 1000 during 25th annual community turkey dinner
Continued from Page 17
and its Ladies’ Auxiliary, the Bank of Montreal, Rec Health and Fitness, and Watson & Slade. In addition to collecting toys for the program, Red Apple also donated $473, which was 10 percent of its proceeds raised during its Fill a Sleight event on December 11. Countryside Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram also provided a check to support the program, and Essex Home Furnishings forwarded several gift cards. Once Upon
a Time Child Care Centre also hosted its own toy collection. Those who would like to donate can still do so. New, unwrapped toys or gift cards for youths, aged 16 to 18, can be dropped off at Essex Fire Station #1 during regular business hours. Because of all of that generosity, children of families facing economic hardship will wake up to a surprise under the tree on Christmas morning.
Service you can feel.
Heating • Cooling • Plumbing • Air Quality
by Sylene Argent The McGregor Squirettes of Mary, with the help from the members of the Knights of Columbus and The McGregor Columbian Club, prepared and serve 1000 turkey dinners on Sunday evening, during a drive-through community supper event. This was the 25th year the McGregor Squirettes of Mary has hosted this much-anticipated event, and the tradition was able to continued because of the support of the community and the many volunteers, who rolled up their sleeves to help in any way they could. Typically, the turkey dinner would invite the community into the hall to eat, but due to COVID, volunteers set up a drive-through pick-up method, which allowed for a contactless option to deliver the food. Chief Counselor of the Squirettes, Laura Belanger, noted the traditional event is not a money maker for the local service club, which is composed of young females learning leadership skills. It is a way, however, the group can give back to the community and ensure everyone can have a turkey supper around the holiday season. “Our hearts grow tender with Those who grabbed a meal childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better during the sold-out event were throughout the year for having, not required to pay a set amount in spirit, become a child again at but were urged to provide a freeChristmastime.” will donation. ~ Laura Ingalls Wilder
Thursday, December 23, 2021
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Santa comes to Essex to enjoy a pancake breakfast
The Shepley family poses during the pancake breakfast with Santa at the Essex Centre Sports Complex on Saturday.
by Garrett Fodor As children count down the days to Christmas morning, they had an opportunity to see and have breakfast with the famous man in red on Saturday morning. Getting into the holiday
spirit, area children were able to use the opportunity to make any last-minute changes to their holiday wish lists. “For many kids, it’s their first experience seeing Santa because of COVID, so it’s really funny and
cute seeing their reaction,” Breanna Roles, Assistant Manager of Programs for the Town of Essex, said. “We’ve had to undergo some changes from twoyears ago, when we did it before, but overall, it remains the same.” Roles noted while last year’s edition was held digitally, this year’s featured assigned seating and capacity limits. Attendees were also seated throughout the event to prevent mingling. Each attendee was treated to a pancake breakfast with juice, and had the opportunity to create winter crafts, complete activity sheets, and write a letter to Santa, if they had not already done so. “This time, we read a
book and had all the little kids come and sit around him, socially distanced, and Santa read the book,” Roles said. “Seeing them sit in the circle and listen to the book was my favourite part of the event, the children are always so amazed.” The event featured two different seating times in order to allow more families a chance to see Santa. Roles noted Town staff members were happy with the turnout at the event and seeing the holiday spirit created.
Santa looks on as event attendees make crafts and enjoy their pancakes.
They are optimistic that next year, they can return to full capacity with more
mingling. She is thankful for everyone who came out.
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5 ways to be more eco-friendly this holiday
(NC) The holidays are a wonderful time for getting together with family and friends, but those delicious meals and new gifts can also lead to lots of waste. Here are some tips and ideas for a greener season that’s still celebrated in
style. 1. Reuse and recycle giftwrap. Wrapping paper, ribbon and bags can really add up when you have a longer list of people to shop for. Get creative with some recycled wrapping, like using the
comics section from the newspaper or colouring leftover scrap paper. You can also decorate the boxes that come with your online packages. 2. DIY festive decorations. Get the kids involved and spend an afternoon in a local park or forest collecting items to make ornaments. You can spray paint pinecones in merry colours and use fallen evergreen branches
and twigs to place on side tables or your dinner table. 3. Swap your sparkly lights. Twinkling lights around the tree and lining your home’s exterior are always magical. But they can use up a lot of energy, which is bad for your wallet and the planet. Switch to energy-efficient LED string lights, which only use about four watts per strand compared to the 34 watts a regular strand
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uses. 4. Green your Christmas tree. Look for a pesticide-free tree, which you can find at a local organic tree farm. Once the season is over, don’t let it join the millions of trees that end up in the landfill. Instead, check with your municipality to see if they offer a recycling program that can turn trees into mulch or wood chips. 5. Avoid using disposables. From gift packaging to takeout, try to use as few
disposables and singleuse plastics as possible. If you’re still drinking from plastic water bottles, now’s a good time to make the switch to reusable bottles. If you don’t like the taste of your tap water, you can have it tested for metals, anions, pesticides, herbicides, hydrocarbons and general water quality indicators. You can find an easy and affordable DIY test kit at mywaterquality.ca.
www.newscanada.com
Tips to keep your tree fresh this holiday season Christmas trees are often the pièce de résistance of holiday decor. Few things draw the attention of holiday guests quite like an awe-inspiring Christmas tree, especially when that tree maintains its fresh,
healthy sheen throughout December. Many families purchase fresh trees over Thanksgiving weekend or during the first weekend of December. Though the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day may seem like a long time to keep a tree looking great, there are a handful of ways for holiday celebrants to help their trees maintain that undeniable appeal for the long haul. • Pick the right tree. Choosing the right tree is one of the simplest ways to keep a tree looking good throughout the holiday season. A freshly cut tree that buyers choose and cut down themselves or have cut down can reassure them that the tree is likely to stay strong throughout December. Trees purchased from a tree lot may have
been cut down long before they made it to the lot, which can make it harder to keep them looking good until Christmas Day. • Cut an inch off the base of any tree that is
not freshly cut. MSU Extension at Michigan State University notes that all Christmas trees are conifers, which means they have resin canals in their
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A Message of Thanks During The Holiday Season
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This holiday season, we want to give you our thanks and best wishes. Merry Christmas!
Peace on Earth ...And many thanks to you, our neighbours and friends at this special time of year.
FLOOD FIRE STORM 35 Wilson Avenue, Essex Ontraio N8M 2L8 Phone: 519-776-6407
Chartered Professional Accountants
519-776-4567
24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
Thursday, December 23, 2021
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Tips to keep your tree fresh this holiday season... Continued on Page 20 trunks. Once a tree is cut, the resin can block the pores and make it harder for the tree to take in water. Cutting an inch off the base of a tree that was not freshly cut just before putting it in the stand can help ensure it gets the water it needs to stay healthy and firm. MSU Extension notes that this approach should be taken with any tree that was not cut within six to eight hours of being put in a stand. • Replenish the water supply every day. Fresh tree veterans recognize that Christmas trees can be very thirsty, especially within the first week or so of being cut and brought home. Fill the stand with water each morning and, if necessary, refill it each night before going to bed. The more water a tree gets and drinks, the more likely it is that the tree will look healthy all the way to Christmas Day. MSU Extension notes that many decorative or antique tree stands do not hold much water, so anyone with such a stand may need to replenish the water supply
more than once or twice per day. • Keep the tree away from a heat source. For safety’s sake, trees should be kept away from heating vents, fireplaces and space heaters. But keeping trees away from such heat sources, and ensuring they are not spending the daytime in direct sunlight, also decreases the chances they will dry out before Christmas Day. A handful of simple strategies can help holiday celebrants keep their Christmas trees looking good throughout the month of December. metrocreativeconnection.com
Did you know? Though it might not be home to as many celebrants as Australia and the United States, the tiny Pacific island nation of Kiribati will be the he first country to ring in the new year ear in 2022. This small nation beats New Zealand’s ealand’s Chatham Islands to the punch by 15 minutes. When Kiribati is welcoming the new w year, it will only be 5 a.m. on December er 31 in New York City. The uninhabited atoll Baker Island and the uninhabited coral island Howland Island are the last places to welcome 2022. These tiny islands do so seven hours after the ball drops in New York City’s in Times Square.
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SERVICES
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MARTY’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIRS - Tune-ups, repairs, & service on snowblowers, riding lawn mowers, chainsaws, & more! 519-733-0986, (c) 519-965-5918. 4-tf _____________________ KENNETH YARDWORKS Clean Up. Leaves, Sod, mulch, eavestrough cleaning and repairs, power washing. Trees & bushes trimmed or removed. Loads to the dump. Fully licensed & insured. Free estimates. Call Kenneth: 519-982-0362. 11-tfn
PLACING A CLASSIFIED AD: Classified ads can be submitted in person, by phone or fax or email from Mon. to Thurs. 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. All classified and personal ads require payment, prior to print. We accept Visa | MasterCard | Debit | Cash | Cheque. CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS TUESDAY BY 10:00 AM
Phone 519.776.4268
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HELP WANTED _____________________ HELP WANTED Local truss assembly plant is hiring full-time truss builders. Monday to Friday and occasional Saturdays during busy season. Benefits after 3 months along with a boot allowance. Experience an asset but not required. Call 519-962-9922 or email resume to cindyh@rivardtruss.com. _____________________ HELP WANTED: TILRAY Inc. is looking for Greenhouse Production Associates to join their team. Duties include daily crop maintenance, harvesting, crop rotation, inventory counts, and cleaning of greenhouse. No public transportation available. Located in Leamington, ON. Compensation starts at $14.39/hour. Full time hours Monday through Friday. Please apply at careers@tirlray.com or mail resume to P.O. Box 20009 269 Erie 9-fn St. S. Leamington, ON N8H 3C4.
_____________________ Company drowning in paperwork? Let an EXPERIENCED BOOKKEEPER help. 15plus years accounting and government remittances experience. Available part time. Reasonable rate. Call 226-3447664. 49-6t* _____________________
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. 22-tt
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HELP WANTED
_____________________ 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- $15.00. To apply please email: Lindsay@policellafarms. com Or Mail to Domric International, PO Box 218, Ruthven ON N0P 2G0. 24/t _____________________ HIRING! LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE and LANDSCAPE LABOURERS, $18/hour. Experience necessary. Fax your resume to (519) 723-2336 or email to quinlaninc@ kelcom.igs.net 1-1tfn
I Thursday, December 23, 2021
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_____________________ 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 _____________________ CASH PAID for scrap cars and trucks. Free removal. Please phone: 519-776-1361 or 519-791-5046. 46-tfn
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PERSONAL
PRAYER TO the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, You who makes me see everything and who shows me the way to reach my ideals. You who gives me the Divine Gift to forgive & forget all that is done to me, and you who are in all the instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything, and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you, no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. A person may pray this prayer three consecutive days without asking for their wish. It will be granted no matter how difficult it may be, and promise to publish this dialogue, as soon as your favor has been granted. .With grateful thanks. J.B.
Point Pelee temporarily closed to visitors from January 6-20, 2022 submitted to EFP To ensure the longterm health of Point Pelee National Park’s sensitive ecosystems, Parks Canada and Caldwell First Nation will conduct a deer population reduction activity from January 6 to January 20, 2022, inclusive. Public safety is of the utmost priority to Parks Canada and therefore Point Pelee National Park will be closed to visitors during this time. The Park will
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open again as usual on January 21, 2021. Parks Canada is responsible for maintaining and restoring ecological health in national parks. A high population (hyperabundance) of white-tailed deer is a serious threat to forest and savannah health at Point Pelee National Park. Through over-browsing, the deer in the park are consuming and damaging native plants faster than they can regenerate. This threatens the health of the Carolinian Forest, which is home to a number of species at risk such as the Red Mulberry Tree, Eastern Wood-pewee, and Eastern Foxsnake. Deer are also jeopardizing efforts to restore the Lake Erie Sand Spit Savannah, a globally rare ecosystem that supports 25 percent of the species at risk in the park. Based on over 30-years of research and monitoring, a healthy and balanced environment at Point Pelee National Park would ideally support 24 to 32 deer. Point Pelee National Park is home to a large amount of leafy vegetation, experiences mild winters, and, most importantly, lacks natural predators, such as wolves,
bears, and cougars, which would have normally kept the deer population in check. It is estimated that the current deer herd population is two times higher than this target. Population reduction is reserved for situations of absolute necessity and Parks Canada has been collaborating with Caldwell First Nation for a number of years to actively manage the deer population in order to protect the Park’s sensitive ecosystems. A dedicated COVID-19 Mitigation Plan has been developed in accordance with public health guidance, and will be implemented to ensure the safety of staff and Caldwell First Nation partners. The deer reduction activity is part of a larger, ongoing initiative to improve the health of Point Pelee National
Park, including planting native Carolinian species and removing invasive plants. Throughout Canada, protected areas like Point Pelee National Park have an important role to play in helping protect and restore healthy, resilient ecosystems and contributing to the recovery of species at risk. For more information, including up-to-date information on park closures, please visit the Park’s website at www.pc.gc.ca/peleec, or contact Point Pelee National Park at pelee. info@pc.gc.ca or 519322-2365. For information about hyperabundant species at Point Pelee National Park, please visit Hyperabundant species management Point Pelee National Park (pc.gc.ca)
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Thursday, December 23, 2021
I
Community I 23
Essex Free Press
Brentwood draws $25,000 Early Bird Winner Fifty percent of the people in live-in addiction treatment at Brentwood are funded only through donations and fundraising events, like the Brentwood Lottery. The 30th annual Brentwood Lottery’s top prize is a brand-new home located in a Belle River-based subdivision, valued at over $750,000. In total, there are
over $1M in prizes. The regular draw for the Brentwood Lottery will take place on January 15. Deadline to purchase tickets is December 31 at midnight. Visit www.brentwoodlottery.com for more information.
Photo submitted by Brentwood Recovery Home. Last Thursday, Brentwood Recovery Home’s Executive Director, Elizabeth Dulmage, was pleased to present Windsor resident Robert Stanescu with his cheque for $25,000 for winning the Early Bird Draw, that took place on December 9. Annually, the Brentwood Lottery raises funds for the Brentwood Recovery Home, which serves men and women from across the region – and sometimes even from out-of-province – on their journey to recovery from addictions.
Trinity Church’s clothing drive supports Unity Hopeful by Sylene Argent On Friday, members of the congregation of Trinity Anglican Church in Cottam forwarded a donation of new and gently used clothing to Unity Hopeful, a local organization that provides support to migrant workers. Pat Jackson, a member of the church, noted volunteers hosted a successful, drive-through clothing collection at the beginning of the month for the Leamington-based, not-for-profit organization, Unity Hopeful, and for the Clothing Cupboard at its sister church in Essex, St. Paul’s Anglican Church. St. Paul’s has already received its share of items from the collection drive for its Clothing Cupboard program that supports area families and individuals in need. Joan Grey, Founder of Unity Hopeful, explained the local service organization collects food and clothing to support migrant workers when they arrive in Canada and while they remain to work. She said a new crew of workers is expected to arrive in January, and the donated items will go a long way in helping them adjust to the colder weather. She noted some of the workers arrive with only t-shirts, so the items are of great help. Those at Unity Hopeful, Grey said, are grateful for the donation and appreciate the partnership it has with Trinity Anglican Church, the little white church in the cemetery in Cottam.
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24 I Personals Essex Free Press
FromThe Heart
I Thursday, December 23, 2021
To place a personal notice, email your photo and content to contact@essexfreepress.com or drop by our office at 16 Centre St., Essex. Personal notices must be received by Monday at 12:00 noon to appear in the Thursday edition.
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IN LOVING MEMORY
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OBITUARIES
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CHORTOS, Bob - 68 years, passed away suddenly on December 15, 2021. Beloved husband of Debbie for 47 years. Loving father of Shelly Chortos and Marty (Melissa) Chortos. Cherished Dupa of Priscilla, Jordan, Cora, Kodie, Hope, Landon, Dominic, and 2 greatgrandchildren. Son of the late James and Julia Chortos. Dear brother of James (Nancy) Chortos. He will be missed by his beloved Bud and many nieces and nephews. Bob’s passion was the family farm, followed closely by plowing snow. He loved watching the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears. Family and friends were received at Holy Name of Jesus Church, 146 Talbot Street South, on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 for Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00am. If desired, memorial donations made to the Windsor Essex Humane Society would be appreciated by contacting the Reid Funeral Home, 87 Maidstone Avenue East, Essex (519-776-4233). Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.
REEB, Larry Walter - Larry Reeb of Lambton County died peacefully on December 18, 2021 at the age of 77 from a long battle with Parkinson’s. Loving father of Tim (Teresa) Reeb, Mike Reeb, and Stephanie (Mike) Konstantinou. Cherished grandfather of Ryan, Tristan, Ruby and Lily, and greatgrandfather of Nova, Kove, and Stoan. Dear brother of Joan (Larry) Ross, Ruth (Chris) Polegato, and Mary-Lou. He is also fondly remembered and missed by his former wife, Marguerite (Muff ) Reeb, his loyal friend and golf partner, Don Salisbury, and a plethora of delightful nieces and nephews. Larry is predeceased by his parents and his brother, Neil, brother-in-law, Larry, and great-nephew, Jonathan. Cremation has taken place and the family will hold a private graveside service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity that is meaningful to you and your family (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia. Memories and condolences may be sent online at www.smithfuneralhome.ca.
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Voice Of Inspiration “I must be willing to give whatever it takes to do good to others. This requires that I be willing to give until it hurts. Otherwise, there is no true love in me, and I bring injustice, not peace, to those around me.”
LECLAIR, Roger Joseph - A resident of Chatham, passed away at home on Friday, December 17th, 2021 at the age of 76. Born in England, Roger was the son of Elie (1989) and Evelyn (2014) LeClair. Loving father of Laura Parlowe (Derrick), late Tammie LeClair (2018), Kelly Waddick (Jaymie), Sharon Gore, Dan Watters, Craig Watters, Randy Watters, Dennis Sereda, Jeff Sereda, Amy Vickery, and Greg Sereda. Proud grandpa of Thias, Mason, Hunter, Emma, and Coral. Survived by Beverly LeClair, Michael LeClair (Deborah), Pamela Kerns (Brian), Wayne LeClair, and sister-in-law, Lorna LeClair. Fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and extended family. Predeceased by brothers David LeClair and Brian LeClair (Susan). Roger was a proud member of Knights of Columbus and volunteered at Canadian Food for Children for many years. Family received friends at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Tuesday, December 21, 2021. A funeral mass was held on, Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at St. Joseph’s Parish. Interment followed at Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham. If desired, memorial donations to the Canadian Food for Children are appreciated by the family. Share a condolence online at www. mckinlayfuneralhome.com.
OBITUARIES
~ Mother Teresa
What’s Going On... NOW ESSEX REGION GOODFELLOWS 50/50 RAFFLE - All proceeds go to local food banks. Draw is December 26th, 1pm. Contact 519-992-7355 Or 519-818-9621. NOW JAN. 5 FANTASY OF LIGHTS FESTIVAL Something for the whole family. For info: kingsville.ca/en/explore-and-play/fantasy-of-lights NOW JAN. 16 DOWNTOWN WINDSOR BIA WINTER FEST Something for the whole family. For info and all events: www.downtownwindsor.ca/winterfest/ JAN. 5 LEAMINGTON BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - Leamington Lebanese Club, 447 ON77 , Leamington. 2-7pm. To book an appointment: www.blood.ca OR 1-800-2-DONATE JAN. 12 ESSEX BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - Essex Centre Sports Complex, 60 Fairview Ave W., Essex, 2-7pm. To book an appointment: www.blood.ca OR 1-800-2-DONATE 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. SUN COUNTY LYME AWARENESS SUPPORT GROUP offers monthly support for Lyme disease patients, family, & friends. Look us up on social media for updates.
Thursday, December 23, 2021
I
Community Hub
Essex Free Press
Please continue to keep those in need in your prayers. Prayers are powerful! If you would like to join our Prayer Warriors on Wednesday mornings at 10am (by Zoom) or if you have a prayer request, contact Pastor Kim. Let us prepare our hearts for receiving God’s greatest GIFT.
double vaccinated. We have a new email address: bethelmaidstone@gmail.com. Reach us by phone (519) 723-2284, email bmuc@xplornet.ca or vist us online: www. bethelmaidstone.com. Located 933 Talbot Road, Maidstone.
Fresh food. Friendly neighbours
Salvation Army Essex Church
191 Talbot St. S., Essex
submitted by Carolyn Barnett
Services at St Paul’s continue to take place on Sunday’s at 11am. All are welcome. Wear a mask and sign in upon arrival. Christmas Eve: 7pm service at St. Paul’s Christmas Morning: 10am at St Paul’s - a playful service. All are invited to come as you are and pajamas are welcome! If you are cleaning out closets, please keep our Clothing Cupboard in mind, we are always in need of gently used clothing for those in need. For more information, about what is happening at St Paul’s, visit our website (www.stpaulstrinity.org) and social media for updates. You can reach us at 519-776-7711.
sponsorship by:
You are invited to join us for our Candlelight Service Christmas Eve at 6p.m. Please call the church office at 519776-4628 to reserve a seat. All of our services require COVID-19 protocols. Join us Sundays at 10:30a.m. as Major Jim Hann leads Family Worship. The Food Bank is closed over the holidays and will re-open on Wednesday, Jan. 5th. Bible Study will resume Jan. 11th. Thank you to our community which so generously supported our Kettle Drive, donating and serving on the kettles. Have a Blessed Christmas and Happy New Year!
519-776-4255 Essex Christian Reformed Church submitted by Beverley Van Huizen
Welcome to Essex CRC either in-person or online. Please join us each Sunday at 10am. All COVID-19 safety protocols are in place. Or, you may join us online, Sundays at 10am. We want to extend to all the good news of Christ’s coming to be the Light of our lives. He transforms us to be part of his new creation and a sign of things to come. May all of you experience his goodness in the New Year as we begin a new time of service in Christ church and God’s world. Visit us at www.essexcrc.ca for a link to our Social Media page for upcoming services including our Christmas Day service beginning at 10am.
Essex United Church Join us Christmas Eve at 7pm for our special family service. On Sunday, December 26 at 10:30am join Rev. Lexie Chamberlain as we will continue our Christmas celebrations! Keep up to date with our social media and our website www.essexunitedchurch.ca. The Essex Food Bank is open - Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30am – 11:45am. The Food Bank also has a new phone number: 519776-4070.
Central Essex County Catholic Family of Parishes
Harrow United Church submitted by Larry Anderson
We invite everyone to join our faith family this Sunday at 10:30am. Plans are underway for our Christmas Eve. Service at 6:45pm. We will have our live Nativity and a short, outdoor worship service. Our Memory Tree is up in the sanctuary. All are welcome to place an ornament on the tree in memory of a loved one. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact our Minister, Rev. Darrow Woods who would be pleased to speak with you. The number of Harrow United Church is: 519-738-4223. Please find information about Harrow United Church on our website at www. harrowunited.org.
Trinity Anglican Church
Essex, Maidstone, McGregor, and Woodslee news Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family! Christmas schedule is as follows: Christmas Eve 4pm at St. John the Evangelist, 5pm at Holy Name of Jesus, 6pm at St. Clement, 7pm at Holy Name of Jesus, 8pm at St. Mary, and 9pm at Holy Name of Jesus. Online reservations required, please no walk ins. New Year’s Mass schedule is 6 pm December 31st at Holy Name of Jesus Church and 10am, New Year’s Day at Holy Name of Jesus Church. Sunday, January 2nd at 8:30am at St. Mary’s, 9am at St. John the Evangelist, 10:30am at St. Clement’s and 11am at Holy Name of Jesus Church. Reservations are required starting Dec. 27th. New schedules for 2022 for Ushers, Lectors, Collection Counters, and Eucharistic Ministers can be found online or at your church’s entrance. Thank you to everyone who donated to Essex and McGregor St. Vincent de Paul Societies and to St. John’s CWL. Dues for 2022 for CWL and K of C can be dropped off at the office in the collection basket at your church. For up to date news, please visit our website at: centralessexcatholic.dol.
We have been asked to limit the number of people, when gathering. We are asked to do this for the safety of ourselves and others. Come join us with Rev’d. Hilton Gomes for Sunday services at 9:15am at 235 County Rd. 34 W. All are welcome to join us. To register, please contact Pat at: 519-776-8005. Merry Christmas and a Happy & Healthy 2022!
Cottam United Church
We are open for in-person worship. In accordance with Ontario Covid requirements, we ask attendees to show proof of double vaccination. Members will have that noted on an attendance sheet and won’t have to show proof on each Sunday, but carry your documentation with you. Continue to wear a mask and observe social distancing. See you at 10am. Our Christmas Eve service will begin at 7pm. Attendees over the age of 12 must be
submitted by Helen McLeod
Christmas Eve Service is on Dec. 24th at 7:00pm. Seating is limited because of social distancing and masks are required. Donations are being accepted for poinsettias in memory of loved ones, contact Helen at 519-839-5351. If you would like to support the Essex Area Food Bank, by making a donation for a hamper, contact Pattie Logan.
Essex Baptist Church Our modest congregation is open and welcomes you to join us. Current health regulations do give us capacity in our sanctuary. Come learn how to pray with us in our current series. Past recording of messages are on our website, which is updated weekly. We are praying God’s blessing on all of Essex County. Please let us know how we can more, specifically, pray for you. (email: pastor@essexbaptist.com). Come celebrate Christmas with Essex Baptist Church! Advent services are Sundays at 10:30am (Sunday Connection at 9:30), Christmas Eve at 7pm. All health guidelines followed - and do let us know how we can pray for you! www.essexbaptist.com , 71 Maidstone Ave East.
Bethel-Maidstone United
St. Paul’s Anglican Church submitted by Sandra Lypps
I 25
Brooker News submitted by Ruth Newman
Worship service this Sunday, December 26 at 10am with Rob Cornies bringing the message. Masks and social distancing are required. Christmas Eve service is at 7pm. Worship service on January 2 is at 10am with Linda Hollingsworth bringing the message. Communion will be observed. Please remember in your prayers the many who are ill in our community. Happy New Year.
Essex Retirees’ Club News
Winners at Monday afternoon’s Pepper were Gordon Teschke with high score, Judith Teschke with low score. Fred Whitaker and Terry Durance tied with the most peppers. At Wednesday Night’s Pepper, George Diesbourg had high score, Kevin Edwards had low and Tom Dewhurst had the most peppers.
Church of the Redeemer submitted by Kimberly Myer
Woodslee United Church submitted by Sue Holman
Mary bored a Son his name is Jesus! Rev. Carl will lead Service and Communion. A video sermon is available on our website and bulletins are also available. Please say special prayers for our friends on our Prayer List. Thank you to all donate food to our food drive. The food is going to Essex Food Bank. There is no Sunday Service on December 26. We will return to our regular Service on January 2, 2022 at 11:15am. We would like to wish you all a very, Merry Christmas!
We are making preparations during this Advent Season spiritually and to celebrate the birth of Christ. Reservations are needed for the Christmas Eve Candlelight services: St. Stephen’s 4:30 & 11pm. Church of the Redeemer at 7pm. Christmas Day at 10am at St. Stephen’s and Sunday, December 26th - Pajama Lessons and Carols at Church of the Redeemer at 10am.
26 I Community Essex Free Press
I Thursday, December 23, 2021
Reaume family and 73’s partner to raise awareness for CMHA Pictured left: The Reaume family pose in front of the raffle prize table at the CMHA fundraiser the family put on in partnership with the 73’s.
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by Garrett Fodor A local family and hockey club are partnering together to raise awareness and support for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), while honouring one of their own by hosting a fundraising skate at the Essex Centre Sports Complex on Sunday, in addition to a Mental Health Night during the January 4 game between the Essex 73’s and the Amherstburg. The Essex 73’s and Reaume family are partnering in an effort to raise awareness and support for the CMHA in honour of the late Mike Reaume, who was a fixture in the community from his time at the rink as a player with the Essex 73’s, as a fan of the local hockey team, and with the local business he ran, Dairy Freez. As a player with the 73’s, Reaume won two Schmalz Cups, in 1977 and 1978, while serving as team captain during the latter year. On the ice, Reaume still holds the record for most points by
a defensemen in a season with 106, and most assists by a defensemen in a season with 86. “Mike was proud to have played for the 73’s, seeing his records still standing, and to be from the community,” Arlene Reaume, Reaume’s wife, said. “Even after his playing days, he’d bring our son, Jim, to the games. He loved it, the team, and community around it.” When Arlene approached the 73’s with the idea, Tim Law, Executive Member, responsible for community events, said the 73’s were more than happy to help out and to help host the events and honour Mike and his legacy. Looking ahead, Law added, he will look to make a CMHA night an annual event on the 73’s calendar, stating the importance and need for it. “There are a lot more mental health issues out there than people realize and when people are struggling with it, we cannot always see that,” Law said. “We want to bring this to the forefront and give people the resources they may need. We’ve been having CMHA reps at
Continued on Page 27
BOXING DAY MONDAY, DEC. 27 10AM-6PM *REMINDER* UTE TEES G GIFTS T POP IN FOR LAST MINUTES OPEN: Thursday, December 23rd, 10am-7pm 7pm 7pm pm m & Friday, December 24th, 9am-2pm Gift Certificates Available!
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Thursday, December 23, 2021
I
Community I 27
Essex Free Press
Reaume family and 73’s partner to raise awareness for CMHA...
73’s forward Luke Sherk poses with one of the skaters who participated in the Skate with the 73’s fundraiser for the CMHA fundraiser, hosted by the Reaume Family.
the games for people to talk to and our goal is to raise awareness and to save a life.” On Sunday, as a part of the fundraiser, the 73’s and Reaume family hosted Skate with the 73’s. The event was by donation with
Continued from Page 26
proceeds going to the CMHA. Aside from the skate, Arlene and the Reaume family organized a raffle, with prizes being donated from throughout the community. She described the support and response as incredible with so many people quick to help and lend a hand in any way they could. The proceeds will be donated to the CMHA. Prior to the 73’s game on January 4, the Reaume family will partake in a ceremonial puck-drop. During the game, the club will draw the 18 raffle winners. With January 4 being Mike Reaume’s birthday, it will be a special night for the entire family. Arlene is grateful for the 73’s and the community support throughout the project and the last year. Tickets will be sold at the 73’s game on January 4 prior to the drawing. Anyone interested can also email yourmindmattersdf@ gmail.com, with proceeds from the raffle going to the CMHA. For additional resources and information, people are encouraged to visit cmha.ca. The Reaume
Essex 73’s Head Coach Danny Anger brings his daughter out onto the ice
family have also created an event page there, titled ‘Your Mind Matters.’
Kingsville businesses donate $26,000 to local schools submitted to EFP Students at elementary schools in Kingsville, Cottam, and Amherstburg will enjoy new technology, musical instruments, and other extracurricular items thanks to an annual fundraiser put on by the group Eat, Drink, Dine Kingsville (EDDK). This year, students at Kingsville Public School, Jack Miner Public School, St. John De Brebeuf, Gosfield North Public School, and Anderdon Public School sold EDDK gift cards, with a portion of every sale going directly to their school. In total, they
raised $25,965. “The support these school families have shown our small businesses is truly astounding,” said EDDK member Heather Brown, co-owner of the Main Grill and Ale House. “We’re grateful for the community’s support over the past two years; giving back through this fundraiser is the least we could do.” 2021 was the fifth year for the school gift card fundraiser. So far, EDDK has raised nearly $100,000 for local community schools.
28 I Business Directory Essex Free Press
I Thursday, December 23, 2021
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Thursday, December 23, 2021
I
Community / Community Hub / Business Directory I 29
Essex Free Press
Lakeshore to create interim multi-use community facility in Stoney Point In-person library services to return as part of temporary facility, community visioning process for permanent facility coming up in 2022
submitted to EFP Residents in the Stoney Point community of the Municipality of Lakeshore can look forward to a multiuse and accessible community facility at Stoney Point Park in 2022. The facility will serve the community on a temporary basis ahead of a community visioning process for the future of the park and a permanent community hub facility. At the meeting on Tuesday, December 14, Council supported a $185,000 expenditure, to be taken from the Facilities Reserve Budget, to cover the cost of a 24 by 40-foot mobile unit. The unit will include two accessible entry/exit points as well as an AODAcompliant washroom. The unit will provide an interim home for the Essex County Library to provide programs and services prior to the planning process for a permanent multi-use community facility. The facility may also be available
for community rentals, meetings, and events, as well as Lakeshore’s recreation programming. “As a Council, we heard from residents about the importance of an accessible building, not just as a place to pick up books and access library programs, but also as a gathering place, a place where people can come together and access community resources,” Mayor Tom Bain said. “Since the start, we have been committed to working with the Essex County Library Board and we are pleased to be able to provide a temporary solution, while we plan for the future of a community hub in Stoney Point.”
Once up and running, the library space in the temporary facility will be home to free Wi-Fi and internet connections, a computer, as well as a selection of library books and other resources. The space will also be used for library programs, events, and as a pick-up and dropoff point for resources. In 2022, community members will be invited to participate in a visioning process to inform plans for the future of Stoney Point Park as well as the design of a permanent community hub facility, which will include space for library services.
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30 I Opinion / Sports Essex Free Press
I Thursday, December 23, 2021
McGregor’s Stroll by Santa a big hit
A brief history of hood ornaments
1954 Olds with rocket-shaped hood ornament.
An email from Leamington resident Don Waffle asking about rocket-shaped hood ornaments inspired me to write this column. The first car to sell in volume in North America was the Curved Dash Oldsmobile (1901-1906). It had no hood ornament because it had no hood. The single-cylinder engine was under the floor and the dashboard was at the front of the car. When Henry Ford launched the Model T in 1908, the 4-cylinder engine was in front and required a 4-piece hood opening from both sides. The cap on the radiator was the forerunner of hood ornaments. A 1929 Kissel roadster built in Wisconsin had a rad cap shaped like a bird with horizontal wings. If you ran low on water, the wings suddenly went straight up, warning you to pull over and add some water! The golden age of hood ornaments began in the late 1930s when, for example, Ford abandoned its old 4-piece hood for a single hood hinged at the back and curving to a tip at the front. These were known as “alligator hoods” (in the U.K. “crocodile bonnets”). The stage was set for an avalanche of hood ornaments. Olds led the way in 1949 with a rocket-shaped hood ornament to advertise its new Rocket V-8 engine. And Canadian Tire sold accessory hood ornaments in the shape of a swan about to take flight. But at the same time, young men customizing their cars adopted the “smoothie” look by removing their hood ornaments, trunk handles, contact@essexfreepress.com and door handles. issuu.com/essexfreepress Today’s cars have virtually eliminated hood ornaments and we are the better for it. Would you want to be a pedestrian jabbed with the tip 16 CENTRE ST., ESSEX of a rocket on the hood of a ’54 Olds? I think not. I’m always looking for stories. Email www.essexfreepress.com billtsherk@sympatico.ca.
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by Sylene Argent Santa’s sleigh bells could be heard chiming blocks away as he greeted the boys and girls of McGregor at its parkette on a very magical evening last Friday. The Stroll by Santa event not only offered the McGregor community a chance to meet the big guy in red and pass along last-minute Christmas wishes, there were opportunities to take holiday-themes selfies, eat a hot do, drink a hot chocolate, enjoy some treats, and listen to festive music in celebration of the holiday season. Councillor Kim Verbeek was pleased with the event turnout. She noted the first 70 youths at the event were presented with a special stuffed animal from Santa, as a preChristmas gift. All the youths who attended received a candy bag. She estimated over 200 individuals strolled through the parkette during the
event. She said volunteers kept individuals moving through the line-up in keeping with the Health Unit’s guidelines. She hopes next year, families will be able to spend time for a social visit and mingle. Verbeek gave credit to the volunteers with the McGregor Community Group, who dedicated their time and efforts to ensure the event was a go. Event sponsors included Verbeek, the McGregor Community Group, the McGregor Columbian Club which donated the hot chocolate and cups, and Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche and his wife, Cathy, who donated the hot dogs. She also credited Dennis Rousseau for serving the hot chocolate, and thanked volunteers Tina McAgy, Lori and Ron Dufour, and Ehva Hoffmann, for their help and support. The event was first hosted in 2019, but was cancelled last year, due to the pandemic. “I think it was good and look forward to doing this again,” she said. Verbeek noted the McGregor Community Group is always looking for volunteers. In addition to hosting the annual Stroll by Santa event, members are also hoping to put together a spring social as well. McGregor needs more opportunities, like the event held last Friday evening, so its residents can get out and gather, Verbeek said. “I just think we need to put together some more events to invite people, because they certainly come out when we do.”
Thursday, December 23, 2021
I
Sports I 31
Essex Free Press
Essex 73’s suffer back-to-back losses
73’s defender Adam Dunn rushes the puck up ice from a game earlier this season.
(LtR) - 73’s forwards Jacob Cruickshank and Conor Dembinski celebrate a goal earlier in the season.
by Garrett Fodor With the holiday break quickly approaching, Stobbs Division Junior “C” hockey teams are looking to pick up points in their remaining games, as they continue to jostle for position in the standings. Entering this past week, the 73’s had a pair of crucial matchups hosting the Blenheim Blades on Tuesday, before traveling to Mooretown to face the Flags on Saturday. Tuesday marked the debut of defenseman Ryan McKim, who joins from the Chatham Maroons. McKim brings a lot of familiarity with him, having played with three of the teams’ defensemen in Chatham in 2019-20. From puck drop, the teams were quick to exchange chances early. Throughout much of the first period, the game was fluid, quickly shifting from one end to the other. The teams exchanged quick chances and contained pressure before transitioning the other way. Both Caleb Pinsonneault and Adrian McBride were unbeaten in the first period, setting up a thrilling second period. Just over two-minutes into the second period, Luke Sherk opened the scoring, as the feisty winger found the back of the net, bringing the crowd onto their feet. Two-minutes later, however, the Blades answered back, as Even Wells tied the game up. From there, both teams would exchange chances before the Blades registered its first lead of the game with six-minutes remaining in the second period. The teams exchanged goals closing out the period, but the Blades held the lead, 3-2. Despite trailing, the 73’s held a 25-14 lead in the shot column. In the third period, the 73’s continued to ramp up their pressure looking for an equalizer. Halfway through the final frame, Matt Smith tied the game at three. But, just as the arena began to quiet down following the goal, the Blades would silence the home crowd, scoring just over a minute later, regaining their onegoal lead. Despite a final push, the 73’s were unable to score again, while the Blades added an empty-netter to prevail 5-3, as they chased the 73’s in the standings. Closing out the week, the 73’s were on the road for their longest trip of the season, traveling to Mooretown. From puck drop, the home team was quick to make the 73’s pay, first with a costly penalty and then with the ensuing man-advantage. Nolan Farr would beat Aidan Pitre just two-minutes into the game to open the scoring. The 73’s remained calm and were quick to get their own chances and would be rewarded as Conor Dembinski scored just three-minutes later. Despite an offensive frenzy at both ends of the ice, the teams remained tied at 1-1, heading into the intermission. The 73’s held a 14-12 lead in shots. In period two, the Flags continued to make the 73’s pay. With a pair of players in the box, the Flags made no mistake and found the back of the net twominutes into the middle frame. The energy continued to
ramp for both teams, as the smaller rink brought energy and quick play at both ends of the ice. Five-minutes later, with another two-man advantage the Flags doubled their lead. Closing out the frame, the 73’s would draw back to within one goal as
Carter Dembinski scored for the 73’s. Coming out of the intermission for the third period, the 73’s came out with energy. This time, it was the visitors who scored just two-minutes into the final stanza, as Conor Dembinski notched his second of the evening. The game remained tied for much of the third period, until the 73’s took a penalty late in the period. The Flags regained the lead on the ensuing powerplay with two-minutes to play. They added an emptynetter as they toppled the 73’s 5-3. Final shots were tied at 35 a piece. The pair of losses has Essex in second place in the Stobbs standings, behind Lakeshore. But, Mooretown is two-points behind the home team, with three games in hand. The 73’s will play once more on December 21 before the holiday break, and will return in the New Year.
32 I Community Essex Free Press
I Thursday, December 23, 2021
EDHS Grade 11 Leadership Class collects over 5200 books for organizations by Sylene Argent This time every year, the students involved with Essex District High School’s Grade 11 Leadership Class take on a service project that will benefit the community in some way. This year’s class embarked on a mission to collect as many gently used books as they could to donate to 18 organizations who need them. Leadership students Julie Boese and Alexandria Couvillon spoke of the collection on behalf of their class. “We wanted to give back something for Christmas, so we decided, hey let’s do a book drive,” Couvillon said of how the project idea originated. The original idea was her teacher’s, and the students came up with a variety of creative plans to get in as may books as they could from their school-wide peers, including hosting a contest between classes. She was shocked with the number of books they were able to collect in a fairly short amount of time. Students started bringing in donations on the first day of collection, which she was pleased to witness. Because the different organizations focus on different ages and needs, the students were sure to collect a variety of reading material, including magazines, French language books, and children’s books. “The places we are bringing them to are definitely places in need,” Couvillon said. “For them to have those books that they never had before, it is really good, especially around the holidays.” Boese added, “It is great to see other people in our community benefiting from our school giving back to them. It is a good feeling.” Boese added she, along with fellow Red Raiders, feel for others in need and wants to see other people do well. “We want to make a change in the community in any way we can.” The book drive was successful, and those who
gave were very generous. Couvillon figures that generosity was rooted in the fact those who forwarded books knew they were going to benefit great local organizations who could use them. Grade 11 Leadership teacher, Sarina Scalia, said she was very proud of her class of nearly 30 students and all of the books they have been able to collect. She noted her students had undertaken every precaution for Covid protocols, with classes leaving the boxes of donated literature outside of their rooms for her students to collect, wearing gloves. Every book was also sanitized and categorized. “Essex really made a difference to over 18 non-profit organizations around the county,” Scalia
Photo submitted. Essex District High School’s Grade 11 Leadership students pose with the over 5200 books they collected for over 18 organizations.
said. Boese and Couvillon enjoy helping others and hope to one day continue to be able to do
so as a nurse and doctor, respectively. A few years back, the Leadership Class hosted a purse drive, which
forwarded the donations to a variety of non-profit organizations. Last year, the students painted the rocks that were placed
at the base of the Essex Centre Cenotaph for Remembrance Day.