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A LOOK INSIDE Councillor Bjorkman appointed to Deputy Mayor position PAGE 3 ______________

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Virtual event kicks-off Black History Month by “Celebrating Black Women of Excellence”

ERCA Celebrates World Wetlands Day PAGE 7 _______________ Amherstburg residents may be asked to consider ward system PAGE 15 _______________ Essex Council presented overview of the new Development Standards Manual PAGE 21 _______________ Essex MP spent the weekend in Ottawa speaking with protesters PAGE 24 _______________

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President of the Essex County Black Historical Research Society, Irene Moore Davis, hosted Friday’s virtual kick-off for Black History Month. The event’s theme was “Celebrating Black Women of Excellence.” by Sylene Argent On Friday evening, residents of Windsor-Essex County were able to join a virtual event to give an early kick-off to Black History Month, and, more specifically, look at “Celebrating Black Women of Excellence.” The event – co-hosted by the Essex County Black Historical Research Society, the Windsor West Indian Association, Black Women of Forward Action, and the Amherstburg Freedom Museum - offered a way for community members to gather and recognize the importance of Black History Month. This year’s National Black

History Month theme is, “February and Forever: Celebrating Black History Today and Every Day,” event host and President of the Essex County Black Historical Research Society, Irene Moore Davis, explained, further noting the theme of this year’s WindsorEssex joint Black History Month Kick-off was “Celebrating Black Women of Excellence.” The virtual event included artistic performances from poets, singers, and musicians, heartfelt remembrances, and a special appearance from the Windsor West Indian Association Choir. “Essex County, as you know, is rich in Black History, and

Canadians of African-descent have played important roles in the cultural, political, social, and economic progress of our community,” Moore Davis said. “Our Region has been populated by people of African-descent from the 18th century, when free black Loyalists, as well as enslaved Africans, were among the area’s early residents. To the 19th century, when formerly enslaved African Americans and free people of colour streamed into this area by the thousands – fleeing either bondage or oppression – to the modern area, when immigrants from the Continent of Africa and the Caribbean made this Region

Photo of Ada Kelly Whitney provided by the Amherstburg Freedom Museum.

their new home.” Throughout the event, Moore Davis highlighted the significant contributions of several Canadian women of African-desent; some who resided locally. Chloe Cooley, Moore Davis said, was a black woman enslaved in Queenston Upper Canada, who routinely fought against her bondage. “She regularly protested her enslavement by behaving in an unruly manner, stealing property entrusted to her, refusing to work, and leaving her Master’s property without permission for short-periods of time,” Moore Davis said. “These were acts of resistance and should be

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2 I News Essex Free Press

I Thursday, February 3, 2022

Virtual event kicks-off Black History Month by “Celebrating Black Women of Excellence”...

Continued from Front Page

understood that way.” On March 14, 1793, Cooley was violently bound and transported across the Niagara River, to be sold in New York State, Moore Davis said. “Cooley resisted fiercely. Her screams and struggles were witnessed and reported to Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe, who used this incident as a means to introduce legislation to abolish slavery in Upper Canada. The Act, Moore Davis said, prevented the further introduction of slaves and limited the Terms of Contract for Servitude, which was passed that year. Little more is known about Cooley, Moore Davis noted, “But her plight is a testament to the struggle of enslaved black persons and the various ways in which they resisted enslavements.” Dr. Pearleen Oliver was born in 1917 in Nova Scotia, and was a leading figure in the Canadian Civil Rights Movement. For over 60-years, Oliver served as an activist, historian, and community leader, Moore Davis said. “As an activist, Dr. Oliver fought hard to remove barriers of discrimination. She spoke out in powerful, dignified protest, and she brought about change,” Moore Davis said, adding she pushed open the doors to black women for nurses’ training and became the spokesperson for Viola Desmond, when she appealed her 1946 conviction of refusing to leave a white’s only section in a movie theatre.

Dr. Oliver was also the founder of the Nova Scotia Association for the Advancement of Coloured People, the Black United Front, and the Black Cultural Centre. She was the first woman moderator of the African United Baptist Church and a Chatelaine magazine woman of the year. She passed away in 2008. “We give thanks and honour her lifelong work for social justice,” Moore Davis said. Ella Jackson was born in Windsor in 1922, spending her childhood in Windsor and in Detroit. In 1944, she became the first black woman from Southwestern Ontario to join the Canadian Women’s Army Corps. She passed away in 2002. Marie-Joseph Angélique, Moore Davis said, has a rather difficult story, but one that is important to tell. She was born around 1705 in Portugal and was taken by boat to North America, eventually enslaved in Montreal. In 1733, she asked her owner for her freedom, but was denied. “This infuriated her,” Moore Davis explained. “In early 1734, she was sold for 600lbs of gunpowder. Upon hearing she was to be sold, Angélique threatened to burn her owner’s house down. Soon after, Angelique ran away with her lover. Her intent was to return to Portugal, the land of her birth.” Two-weeks later, they were tracked

Lena O’Ree, Moore Davis said, was a radio show host at the age of 17 in New Brunswick, but the station did not make it known she was a black woman. At the age of 22 in 1936, she went to the YWCA, to try and join, but was turned away. She returned the following day with ten other black women, who became the first black members of the YWCA in Canada. While working for the Admiral Beatty Hotel as an elevator attendant, she refused to enter the building from the backdoor, as required for black staff and guests to do. “Instead, O’Ree walked through the front doors, an action that was pivotal in the desegregation of the hotel and other city institutions,” Moore Davis said. She continued her activism with the Pride of Race, unity and dignity through education. The New Brunswick Human Rights Commission honoured her for her lifetime contributions. Mary Miles Bibb was a Quaker raised, free born black school teacher from Rhode Island. In 1948, she married Henry Bibb. Two-years later, the couple migrated to Sandwich, where they became community leaders. “Mary participated in many abolitionist activities,” Moore Davis said, which included helping to manage the Refugee Home Society, which raised funds to purchase land to be resold to formerly

down and Angélique was returned to her owner. Once back in Montreal, she continued to state she would burn her mistress’s house down, because she wanted to be free. On the evening of April 10, 1734, a massive fire blazed through Montreal, destroying homes, shops, warehouses, a hospital, and a convent, Moore Davis said. “Angélique was accused of starting the fire and arrested the next day.” In court the following morning, she was charged with arson, a capital crime. “Angélique was found guilty and sentenced to death. She was tortured, hanged, and her body burned. “While it remains unknown whether or not she set the fire, Angélique’s story has come to symbolize black resistance and freedom,” Moore Davis said. Ada Kelly Whitney attended Mercer Street School and Windsor Collegiate Institute, and went on to become the first black woman to teach in the Ontario Public School Board. Hired by the Windsor School Board of Education system in 1913, she was assigned to Mercer Street School, where she earned an annual salary of $600. In 1918, Kelly Whitney publicly acknowledged anti-black racism and proactive race consciousness. She later relocated to New York, where she became a social worker and religious leader. She passed away at the age of 78.

Continued on Page 9

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Thursday, February 3, 2022

News I 3

Essex Free Press

Councillor Bjorkman appointed to Deputy Mayor position by Sylene Argent During the special meeting hosted on January 24, a majority Council vote selected Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche to take over the mayoral position for the Town of Essex, after former position holder Larry Snively resigned. On Monday, January 31, Council hosted another special meeting to select a method, and appoint an individual, to fill the second highest position on Essex Council. Ultimately, a majority Council vote decided to appoint someone from Council to the Deputy Mayor position, and further selected Councillor Steve Bjorkman for the job. When discussing options on the method that could be used to select the position-holder, Director of Legislative Services/Clerk, Robert Auger, Council could have filled the position via a by-election, with April 28 being the earliest date for a by-election, or through appointment. If going to select the candidate through appointment, Council could have selected someone already on Council, from within the community, or a candidate from the 2018 Municipal Election. Mayor Richard Meloche first asked if there was interest in a by-election. There was none and Council passed a motion noting that. Council then had to decide how to fill the position, either from someone already on Council or from the community. Councillor Kim Verbeek wanted to appoint someone outside of Council. No Councillor has been elected at large, which she felt is significant. The Deputy Mayor seat is an important position, and is about being an ambassador for the Town. As such, Councillor Sherry Bondy believes it should be someone who ran for the position. Councillor Chris Vander Doelen wanted to appoint from within Council, someone already elected. He said someone is needed who understands Town business to represent Council at the County-level. Meloche and Councillors Joe Garon, Morley Bowman, and Bjorkman also believed the Deputy Mayor position should be appointed from within Council. “It is a very important seat and a complicated position to be in,” Meloche said, “Because someone who is on Council already understands the Councillor role. They would only have to combat trying to get comfortable filling the Deputy Mayor seat at the County Councillevel. [That is] much easier than trying to figure out what the roles are at County Council and what the roles are at Town Council. [That’s] double the reading they have to do to catch up to issues that are going on.” A majority Council vote passed a motion to select the Deputy Mayor from within Council. In looking for nominations for the Deputy Mayor position, Vander Doelen nominated Bjorkman for the position. Bjorkman accepted the nomination.

Councillor Joe Garon said he believed the position holder should be one of the more experienced Councillors, and nominated Bowman. Bowman thanked Garon for the nomination, and noted it was tempting to take on the position. He believes it would be much more prudent to have someone familiar with development going on in the south-end of the municipality. So, he declined the nomination. Councillor Verbeek nominated Bondy for the Deputy Mayor position. She accepted the nomination. Council allowed the two nominations to speak, explaining why they would like to take on the position. Bondy said she is very up-to-speed on the development on the south-end. She has served on Council for three terms, and noted she won the last election by an overwhelming majority. In addition, her case work is all over the municipality. She said she has also been an advocate for businesses over the pandemic. Her website has been active, updating residents about Town happenings. She has also acquainted herself with County Council business, as she does have intentions of climbing the political ladder. Bjorkman noted he has been a member of the community for 26-years, divided between Colchester North, Essex Centre, and Colchester Village. He served as the Essex Centre BIA Chairperson for three-years, before running for Council. Having lived, worked, and owned businesses in town has given him a real understanding for the uniqueness of each of the Town’s communities. The Deputy Mayor is to be supportive of the Mayor, Bjorkman said. Partnerships between the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, CAO, and Town administration is key when working to secure investment and in building faith and trust with residents. These individuals can challenge each other in the meeting room, but must be united when it is time to sell it. With two nominations on the table, Auger asked Council members to voice their opinion. Meloche, Garon, Vander Doelen, Bowman, and Bjorkman voted for Bjorkman. Bondy and Verbeek voted for Bondy. With five votes, Bjorkman was appointed to the position of Deputy Mayor. Council then passed a by-law confirming the appointment, then further declared Bjorkman’s Council seat, for Ward 3, as vacant. Council will host a special meeting on February 7 to discuss how to fill the vacancy. Council noted it was not interested in hosting a by-election to fill the vacant Ward 3 position.

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4 I Opinion Essex Free Press

Editorial &Opinion Serving Essex and the surrounding communities since 1896.

Published Thursdays as an independent weekly newspaper, owned and operated by The Essex Voice Limited. A London Publishing Corporation Publication LIMITED OFFICE HOURS: Our office is closed to the public, currently. If you need to schedule an appointment, please call the office. COVID protocols in place. OUR STAFF Sandy Kennedy - Office Jessica Azar - Graphic Design / Social Media / Production Lana Warwick - Graphic Design Greg Belchuk - Advertising Sales Manager Sylene Argent - Editor/News Reporter Shelley Beaudoin - Graphic Design / Production / Distribution

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

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

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

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

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

ADVERTISING Advertising is accepted on the condition that, in the event of an error, the portion of the ad occupied by the error, will not be charged for, but the balance will be paid at the usual rate. It is the responsibility of the advertiser to check an ad on first publication, and the publisher accepts no responsibility for errors in multiple insertions. The Essex Free Press reserves the right to reject or edit any advertisement likely to offend community standards. Display Advertising Deadline: Friday at 2:00 pm

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I Thursday, February 3, 2022

Howling at the Moon ••• Comment by Sylene Argent ••• It’s okay to challenge the opinions we hold

I have always been taught to read multiple sources, and question who provided the statistics, on any given topic before coming to my own decision. And, it is something that has served me well, I think. Doing so has shaped me into an individual who seeks facts before I make a knee-jerk reaction, based on my feelings. I would rather be armed with statistics than just my feelings any day, when having to defend my position on any one topic, whatever that may be. Conversely, those who stick to their feelings can be difficult to speak with, as they can become married to their opinions on any given matter and are unwilling to accept additional information that could rock their stance. It is easy to become emotionally involved with any topic; heck, we can spend an incredible amount of time seeking out the information that supports our argument, but I would suggest this would have us doing that wrong. We should always seek information from both sides of an argument, before settling on our opinion on the matter. I have always been of mind to challenge the ideas put out there, by anyone. And, I see many individuals do just that. There are those, however, bent on their ideals and will not allow conversation to happen with others, where perhaps their understanding of any particular topic could be

Opinion

threatened by facts provided from someone else. When we do that, we all lose. Honestly. Whatever happened to having discord, discussing ideas, and being involved in an in-depth conversation, without getting upset by something someone else believes? It is as if some people are afraid to have the conversation, because they are afraid to have their ideas challenged. They just don’t want to be wrong. I realize none of us have perfect ideals. I recognize that fully. But, how can we learn, and challenge what it is we already know, without allowing ourselves the vulnerability to admit that we cannot be 100 percent right? I get so proud when I see conversations taking place in the comment section, when people of opposing views actually wish each other a good day, recognizing they would have to agree to disagree, or thank each other for providing information they have not seen yet. Then, I swear, there are people who have fake accounts who either must be paid to dispute anyone with a certain opinion, or must be unemployed because there is no way anyone has the time to comment all day long, every day. These agitators certainly know how to rattle cages and get everyone to start swinging in the comment section, figuratively. I have always been an advocate of lifting each other up, not putting each

other down. And, as we continue to endure challenging times, as tired, exhausted, and drained, as we all might be, we need to remember to show each other the same respect we would expect from others, perhaps even more so. I can get just as frustrated as anyone else when my own opinions get dismissed when speaking to someone, because I try very hard to listen to their ideas, even if I can’t wait to share what it is I know. One of my absolute biggest pet peeves is when I am talking, making what I think are great points, and the person I am talking to slips into that glossy, dead stare. They are not listening, just waiting for their turn to speak on the matter. We cannot learn, if we cannot be bothered to listen. And, like it or not, we all have room in our heads to store away, and contemplate, more information. That just makes us smarter. There is so much we can disagree on, but perhaps we should, instead, look for the things we agree on; those things we have in common. Perhaps we will then be able to remind ourselves, at the end of the day, we are all human and should treat each other as such.

“I support the Truckers.” - by Shelley Beaudoin

I support the truckers who continue to do their job to make sure store shelves are stocked so the rest of us can have access to the essentials we need. I support those medical professionals who have made unprecedented sacrifices to protect and continue to make the health and welfare of others a priority. I support law enforcement and municipal staff who have put in the effort to help our community run in a orderly fashion, when day-to-day life has not really been orderly. I support the teachers who have, through the unstable work environment we continue to live through, have such passion to continue to find ways to teach children. I support Canada Post staff and independent delivery business staff who have, through the unforeseen onslaught of online, and delivery demand, continued to work through an extraordinary stressful time, to ensure people get their packages in a timely manner.

I support the small business owners who have suffered in ways that they were not prepared for, yet found ways to be creative and continue to persevere to keep their businesses viable. I support the elected officials who have had to make difficult decisions and take unwarranted abuse as they navigate through this historical pandemic. I support any individual who, for the better of us all, has made decisions based on the greater good for everyone, even if it was difficult for them. I support those who through their sadness, confusion, anger, frustration, or financial hardship, continue to move forward, knowing that this all will pass in time. If we want the vehicle of life to continue to move forward out of this pandemic, we may have to set aside a few squeaky wheels.

Clear a path for your Newspaper carrier! Please make sure you have a clear path for our walking carriers, as well our driving carriers to your door or mailbox. The snow and ice make it difficult for any delivery service employee to do their job efficiently. Our hope is to safely deliver your local news each week, free-of-charge to you. We appreciate your patience, kindness, and cooperation during this winter season.

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Community I 5

Essex Free Press

Steve McNeil skates for Alzheimer’s – Again! This time in 10 Ontario towns and cities, including Windsor.

submitted to EFP Steve McNeil has skated for 19 hours and 26 minutes, no less than thirty times in cities across Canada, to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s disease.

Steve’s skate is both a tribute to his late mother, who died of the disease, and strives to support all of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias - family members, care partners and

Hearing tests, hearing aids, wax removal, and speech therapy

friends. Steve’s mother, Eunice, was born in 1926, thus the connection to the name #1926skate. Steve asks that people donate $19.26 to the Alzheimer Society in their region in support of his efforts, which in turn, will support local Alzheimer Societies. This is the 10th year Steve has been skating the marathon, however, because of Covid-19, he will not be travelling across the country. Instead, he will skate in 10 Ontario regions and towns, including skating in downtown Windsor

at Charles Clark Square (215 Chatham St. E., ), on Saturday, February 5, 2022. Steve McNeil, 60, is an Etobicoke mail carrier and a recreational hockey referee. He starts his marathons at 12:00 a.m. (midnight) and skates until 7:26 p.m. He skates alone throughout the night when the rink is closed to the public. He respects the staff who take care of the ice, and encourages everyone to join him for a short time and skate to help raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease. Steve has skated in pouring rain, a blizzard ,and the bitter cold of 2019. Steve says, “My marathon skates are nothing compared to the time and effort caregivers devote to family members with the Alzheimer’s disease.” Steve’s website is www.1926Skate.com and is full of information about his skate and great photos. Donation links can be found through his website. The funds received through Steve’s website stay in the local communities of the selected cities. Locally, it is projected

that in 2022, there will be 8,310 people living in Windsor & Essex County

over the age of 40 with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.

Pet Of The Week: Gatto Gatto is a super friendly and aﬀectionate feline who is looking for a home. He’s not looking for a typical home. In his previous house, he was used to asking to be let outside for his business, over using a litter box. So Gatto will need an outdoor space. He loves to be around people and is always asking around and showered with love. He loves to play with toys once they’ve been sprayed with catnip. He likes to climb into your lap for some extra love and will be sure to give you plenty of kisses to say thank you for your service! 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 Special Feature Essex Free Press

I Thursday, February 3, 2022

Town of Essex looks ahead: Finance will tackle asset management, work on budget reset in 2022 by Sylene Argent photo submitted Staff members with the Finance Department for the Town of Essex will be busy in 2022. Director of Corporate Services/Treasurer, Kate Giurissevich, said those

who work for the Finance Department will do something that has not been done in some time, embark on a budget reset year. “What that means, is that we are going to really put a lot more focus on the departments to kind of start

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their budgets from scratch again, and then compare them to previous budgets,” Giurissevich said. “It is just a good budgeting practice.” She said this will help determine what other departments with the Town of Essex believe they need. “That is going to be a large exercise. It will probably involve us meeting with every department and essentially kind of rebuilding the budget and comparing it to prior years to make sure it makes sense.” When going through the budget, departments would start with a base budget, then add or minus what they needed in that year. “This year, we are not going to have that. We are going to ask them to repopulate their base budget, and we will give them some information, but it is really going to be an overhaul of the base budget.” Along with that, Giurissevich said, the Finance Department plans to host neat budgeting engagement activities. Nothing has been formerly approved or introduced yet, however, “We do see some cool tools out there and we plan on involving the community in the budget this year, as well as Council. “We will see some neat tools come out, probably more towards the fall,” she said, noting that the Finance Department will shift its duties in the fall to assisting the new Term of Council through hosting training sessions. As a result, budget adoption for 2023 will be delayed, as deliberations will have to wait until new members are sworn in. With a new Term of Council to be sworn in this fall, after the 2022 election takes place, Giurissevich said the Finance Department does want to revamp the budget document. Part of the Budget engagement for the community will include what they would like to see and what they need to see, without providing an overwhelming about of information. “We will develop a new document based on that feedback,” she said. “We do have a really nice visual document, but we heard

feedback from Council and citizens over the years… and I think it is a great idea to tailor it to the Term of Council.” She said this will look at finding the right balance on how to present the information, noting the Town wants to present the information, without it being too cumbersome for the reader. In partnership with Infrastructure Services, the Finance Department will work to compete the legislated Asset Management Plan update this year. This is due in July. “We have commenced work on that, and it will be a big project for us as well,” Giurissevich said. At the October 18 meeting, Council approved an Asset Management Specialist Contract Position, to take place between November 1, 2021 through to December 31, 2022. The position will fulfill provincial legislation that requires municipalities to address existing infrastructure and create documents to assist in the planning for the future replacement of this infrastructure, known as Asset Management Planning, the Report to Council on the matter notes. The Town began asset management planning in 2015. In addition, Giurissevich said she is also planning on tackling a formal Debt Management Policy for Council to consider adopting at some point in 2022. This document will take a look at the Town’s longterm debt and setting limits and recommendations on

Over the next few weeks, the Essex Free Press will touch base with senior staff members with the Town of Essex to learn about their plans for the coming year and projects they will tackle.

Director of Corporate Services/Treasurer, Kate Giurissevich

debt-levels. She explained, some times the Town uses longterm debt to take-on projects, such as the Harrow and Essex Centre Streetscapes and Fire Station # 2. Following the creation

of the Debt Management Policy, Giurissevich said her department plans to then work on a Reserve Management Strategy, but that likely will not take

Continued on Page 7

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Community / Special Feature I 7

Essex Free Press

ERCA Celebrates World Wetlands Day submitted to EFP World Wetlands Day was recognized on February 2, with a focus on a call to take action for wetlands. The Essex Region Conservation Authority is highlighting two significant wetland projects currently being undertaken to expand and improve wetland habitat in the Essex region. At Hillman Marsh Conservation Area in Leamington, extensive repairs and reinforcements are being implemented to two wetland cells to increase resiliency in the containment systems, protecting the habitat against new-normal climate change impacts in the form of extreme, enduring high-water events on Lake Erie. Previously, the wetland was sheltered from heavy wave action by a long beach ridge. However, sustained record high water levels washed away the sand ridge

Town of Essex looks ahead... Continued from Page 6

place until next year. This will look at setting minimum thresholds for reserves, resolutions to note which funds go into which reserve, and defining the reserve accounts to clarify what they can be used for. Another big project will include creating an Information Technology Strategic Plan, Giurissevich added. This is an organization-wide effort, starting with interviews across staff, surveys, and then assessments. It will result in a solid plan for identifying opportunities to enhance the use of technology for residents and staff alike. The IT department is managing the project and plans to implement the key findings in 2023. Town staff has all of these plans for 2022 to ensure “We exercise fiscal responsibility. I think these [policies and documents] will be essential to making sure we are meeting the mandates of the higher-levels of governments, because they dictate to us certain thresholds that we can’t go over.” They will also be essential for a long-term financial planning basis. “If we have these tools in place now, every budget year, it would mean certain restrictions on spending that only helps us for the long-term financial plan for the Town,” Giurissevich said.

and began to breach parts of the protective system of earthen dykes that retain water in the marsh habitat. A partnership with Ducks Unlimited Canada and funding from the Province of Ontario secured the future of this rare and critically important coastal wetland. Meanwhile, in Amherstburg, a new wetland is being created, thanks to funding from the Amherstburg Community Foundation, Ducks Unlimited Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and others. This approximately .75 acre wetland feature is located adjacent to Holiday Beach Conservation Area, expands on a Provincially Significant Wetland and features turtle habitat, including constructed nesting areas and basking logs. This wetland is unique in that is comprises Phase One of the Holiday Beach Cycling Trail, and the excavated earth will ultimately be used to create topographical interest for the trail. “Both of these wetland projects are important to help mitigate flooding, create habitat, and improve water

quality for Lake Erie,” said Tim Byrne, ERCA CAO. “Wetlands also have value as carbon sinks, and provide habitat for important species at risk. We are sincerely grateful to all partners who are investing in this type of important green infrastructure.” The Essex Region Conservation Authority is a public sector organization established by the Province in 1973, and governed by local municipalities to provide for the organization and delivery of programs and services that further the conservation, restoration, development, and management of natural resources in watersheds in Ontario.

8 I Ad Feature Essex Free Press

THE ART OF THE CRAFT

HOCKLEYBEER.CA

I Thursday, February 3, 2022

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Community I 9

Essex Free Press

Seasonal workers already busy at Ontario greenhouses submitted to EFP Despite the cold and snow outdoors, greenhouses across Ontario are already working hard to ensure consumers have a steady supply of fresh, local food on their tables this winter. Approximately 3,000 seasonal workers from Mexico and the Caribbean began arriving this month at greenhouses in the Leamington area, Niagara, and other parts of Ontario under a seasonal labour program that is critical to the success of the province’s thriving fruit and vegetable industry. This is the 56th year, the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program (SAWP) has operated in Ontario, helping growers affected by a chronic shortage of domestic labour to fill vacancies. In total, roughly

18,000 workers are expected to be placed at about 1,450 Ontario farms this growing season. “The greenhouse supplies a significant portion of our fresh, local produce sector and is very important to Ontario’s economy. Without this program to supplement local labour, the greenhouse industry wouldn’t be able to function effectively and we’d lose a valuable food source,” says Ken Forth, President of Foreign Agricultural Resource Management Services (F.AR.M.S.), which administers the program. SAWP is a “Canadians first” program, which means supplementary seasonal farm labour is hired from partner countries only if farmers cannot find domestic workers willing to take the same jobs. It’s estimated that at least two jobs for Canadians

are created in the agrifood industry for every seasonal agricultural worker employed through SAWP at Ontario farms.

Virtual event kicks-off Black History Month by “Celebrating Black Women of Excellence”... enslaved families. In 1852, Mary opened a school for black and white students, and had 69 students in 1853. She and her husband also established the Windsor Anti Slavery Society. “The most important undertaking of Mary and Henry Bibb was the ‘Voice of the Fugitive,’ the first successful black newspaper in Canada. Mary made numerous contributions, but was not listed as co-editor or publisher. She wrote many articles for the newspaper and often ran it when Henry was away on speaking engagements.” Henry and Mary Bibb have been designated persons of national historic significance by the Government of Canada. Their plaque can be viewed on Sandwich

Continued from Page 2

Street. Mary Miles Bibb passed away in 1877 in Brooklyn, New York. The last individual Moore Davis spoke of was Eleanor Collins, who was honoured with a postage stamp this year at the age of 102. Collins was born in Edmonton in 1919. By 1939, she was living in Vancouver and was singing in gospel groups and jazz quintets on CBC radio and TV. In 1954, a Vancouver CBC TV outlet showcased her in a musical call, “Bamboula,” featuring the first interracial cast to perform in Canada. She sang in variety shows, on stage, in clubs, and in recording studios, Moore Davis said. A year later, Collins had her own variety show on CBC TV, “The Eleanor

Show,” this making her the first artist of colour in North America to host her own national weekly television show. In 1964, the show returned as “Eleanor.” “Through her groundbreaking television broadcast, Collins fostered race relations in Canada and paved the way for a more racially-diverse entertainment scene,” Moore Davis said, adding she has won many awards. “Today at 102, Eleanor Collins is a living pioneer and legend, who has achieved excellence in arts and left a permanent mark on Canadian society for which generations, and generations to come, will reference as a seed of

inspiration,” Moore Davis said. “Let’s be inspired by all of these women of excellence by all means, not just in February, but year-round,” Moore Davis commented.

The virtual event on Friday evening was also a means to encourage community members to participate in the over 20 Black History Month events happening locally throughout the

month of February. The 2022 WindsorEssex County Black History Month Activity Schedule is available at amherstburgfreedom.org

A Time To Reflect, Remember & Celebrate

Chris LEWIS MP ESSEX CHRIS.LEWIS@PARL.GC.CA • CHRISLEWISMP.CA 519-776-4700 • 1-866-776-5333

10 I News Essex Free Press

I Thursday, February 3, 2022

Tecumseh - Highlights from the January 25 meeting of Council

The winning Tecumseh’s 100th anniversary logo design, created by Isabella Larking, age 13.

submitted to EFP Regular Meeting of Council Centennial Logo Revealed: Tecumseh’s 100th anniversary logo will be based on a design by 13-year-old Isabella Larking that was unveiled at the beginning of Tuesday’s Council meeting. Isabella was one of 288 elementary and secondary school students who

entered a contest to create a logo for the Town’s centennial. The Mayor’s 100th Anniversary Task Force selected the top five submissions from a short list of 17. The logo’s theme is what makes Tecumseh a wonderful community – in the past, present, and future. Isabella’s design features a multi-coloured river and a feather circling the number 100 and maple leaves. A park scene is shown in one of the zeroes. Tecumseh turned 100 in 2021 and a celebration is planned for July 2022. Isabella’s design will be the inspiration for the final digitized logo used to promote the celebration. Participation in Organics Program Under Review: Town administration will review the Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority’s Regional Food and Organic Waste Management strategy to proceed with a short-term contract(s) with an external service provider for source separated organics, and report back to Council before March 31, 2022, with a recommendation. The EWSWA says the

149 Lansdowne Ave., Kingsville, Ontario 519-733-8826

best option to meet provincial targets for diverting food and organic waste from landfills in an environmentally sustainable way is to take a regional approach and proceed at this time with a five-year contract(s) for source separated organics. It is asking all municipalities in the County of Essex to indicate by March 31, 2022, whether they will participate. Feds Asked to Help Laid Off Workers: Council is supporting Essex County’s letter to federal Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland asking that the government provide support to laid off workers in the auto and casino sectors that is equivalent to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy Program in place early in the pandemic. The letter, sent January 6, 2022, is signed by Essex County Warden Gary McNamara, who is mayor of Tecumseh. Province Urged to Give Small Businesses a Lifeline: Council also supported a letter from the County of

Essex to Premier Doug Ford asking the province to provide more funding to small businesses struggling to stay afloat due to pandemic costs and restrictions. ERCA Transition Plan Received: The Essex Region Conservation Authority has provided the Town with its transition plan, which it had to submit to the province by the end of 2021. Recent amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act designate some services and programs as mandatory and others as non-mandatory. Conservation authorities now must reach agreements with their member municipalities to provide non-mandatory programs and services. Otherwise, they are not allowed to levy for them. Pathway to Potential Agreement Renewed: Council endorsed the renewal of its agreement with the City of Windsor to provide the Pathway to Potential Program. The Town’s Community and Recreational Services Department administers the

Continued on Page 11

Thursday, February 3, 2022

News I 11

Essex Free Press

Tecumseh - Highlights from the January 25 meeting of Council... Continued from Page 10 funding from the city to assist low-income families with access to recreation programs. The Town received $22,200 in Pathway to Potential Funding in 2021, of which $10,243 was used to subsidize fees for recreational programs offered by the Town, as well as sports and cultural organizations. The total spent was roughly half of what was anticipated due to the COVID-19 pandemic limiting activities. Multi-unit Housing Proposed on Lesperance: Council will hold a meeting on February 22, 2022, at 6 p.m. to hear from the public about a request to change the zoning of land on the southwest corner of Lesperance Road and Arbour Street. The rezoning from Residential Zone 2 and Zone 2-25 to site-specific Residential Zone 3 is required for the proposed construction of three 2.5-storey buildings, which will each contain six dwelling units. The parcel is owned by Deerbrook Andrew J. Smith Real Estate Inc. and 2312205 Ontario Limited, and currently consists of three separate properties. The redevelopment of the parcel, located roughly halfway between Tecumseh Road and County Road 22, would include on-site parking and landscaping. Rural Severance Requires Rezoning: An application to rezone agricultural land at 6067 Walker Road will be the subject of a public meeting of Council on February 22, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. The Committee of Adjustment has approved the severance of a 0.51-hectare dwelling lot on the condition that the two resulting properties are rezoned. The application is to change the zoning of the severed parcel to a sitespecific Agricultural Zone (A-34) and the remaining 40.4 hectares to a sitespecific Agricultural Zone (A-35), which will prohibit a residence from being constructed on it. Tax Arrears Below Historical Norm: Tecumseh’s tax receivables (outstanding property tax payments) in 2021 were 4.4 per cent

of the total levy, a slight increase over 2020 but still below the historical norm. The Town’s property tax arrears have historically been in the six-to-sevenper-cent range. Meeting Hours Reported: Council held 21 regular meetings, 19 in-camera meetings, 16 public meetings and eight special meetings in 2021. The number of in-camera meetings was higher than the average for this term of Council and the previous one. The most common reasons for meetings to be called in-camera during 2021 were to consider the acquisition and disposition of land, and labour relations. The number of meetings and meeting hours fluctuate year to year. Public Works Projects Pre-approved: Council gave advance approval to 39 Public Works and Engineering Services capital projects for 2022 that are expected to cost a total of $27.4 million. Most are ongoing and approximately 10 are new projects. The new projects generally relate to water, road, sanitary and bridge repairs or improvements that are required to maintain existing infrastructure, support proposed developments and/or satisfy funding agreements. Among the projects are: the finalization of the Shoreline Management Plan, Stormwater Rates Study, Oldcastle Stormwater Master Plan and Sanitary Sewer Model Update; construction of the Riverside Drive multiuse pathway between Manning Road and the Te c u m s e h - Wi n d s o r border; construction of the Tecumseh Road Storm and Road Improvements Project; construction of the Lesperance Road/VIA Crossing Improvements Project; and watermain and sanitary sewer improvements related to the County of Essex County Road 42 improvements project. Signs to Deter Speeding Damaged: Six temporary in-road traffic calming signs the Town put up in the spring of 2021 to encourage speeding

drivers to slow down were damaged beyond repair or went missing. The signs, which are installed in the centre of the road and flex on impact, are among the tools the Town is using to respond to speeding complaints. The in-road signs were put up on North Talbot Road near Weston Park and Riverside Drive at Lakeview Montessori School. At both locations, radar surveys found the average speed was 10 km/h over the speed limit. The signs reduced the average speeds, which were still above the speed limits. Public Works and Engineering Services is continuing to conduct radar speed surveys in response to speeding complaints, use the flexible in-road signs to slow traffic and provide data to the OPP. Cost Recovery Report for Sewer Extension Presented: Council received a report

on the proposed by-law setting out cost recovery charges for the Sylvestre Drive sanitary sewer extension. Administration will communicate the estimated charges to the property owners within the sanitary sewer extension study area and hold a

public information centre to gather feedback before reporting back to Council. The sewer extension services approximately 15 business properties near Sylvestre Drive and County Road 19. Next Regular Meeting: the next meeting

of Council is February 8, 2022. The meeting is scheduled to be held electronically. The agenda and livestream will be available on the Town’s website. Follow the Town of Tecumseh on social media for news and the latest information.

12 I Community Essex Free Press

I Thursday, February 3, 2022

Town of Essex Heritage Week - Looking for Stories of the Past submitted to EFP This year, the Town of Essex will celebrate Heritage Week with a special theme – ‘Stories of the Past’. Celebrate local history and learn how Essex came to be through a series of online activities, presentations, tours, and more. Since 1985, Heritage Week has been celebrated in communities across the province. This year, with celebrations happening between February 21 to

27, residents will have the opportunity to celebrate local history and heritage from the comfort of their home. In addition, select residents will be recognized with the Youth and Community Heritage Award and the new Town of Essex Heritage Bursary. Youth and Community Heritage Award Do you know a local youth, individual, or organization whose efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Town of Essex deserves recognition? The Town is currently accepting nominations for the Community Heritage Preservation Awards. The awards will

be open to nominations for outstanding local youth, individuals, and organization. Nominations can be sent via email to heritage@ essex.ca or by calling 519-776-7336 ext. 1128. Written submissions may also be dropped off using the drop boxes at Essex Town Hall (33 Talbot Street South) or the Harrow & Colchester South Community Centre (243 McAffee Street, Harrow). Nominations must be submitted by Friday February 14. Town of Essex Heritage Bursary Are you or do you know a person currently

enrolled or entering a program in History, Archeology, Archives, Records Management and/ or Heritage Resources Management? They may be eligible for a $500 bursary towards their college/university tuition. Persons interested in the Town of Essex Heritage Bursary may contact heirtage@essex.ca to request an application form. Submissions are due March 10, 2022 at 4:30pm. Call for Stories of the Past This year’s theme is Stories of The Past, where we seek to unearth stories of Essex from our residents,

former and present elected officials, cultural groups and residents. If you are interested in sharing your experiences or the experiences of your group, we are interested in hearing from you! Ideas for stories include: • P e r s o n a l memories of events (i.e. Return from the War, Essex explosion of 1980, Harrow Flood, Amalgamation of 1999). • Personal stories

from cultural groups (i.e. Traditions from our First Nations, Stories from our Black Community, Portuguese club in Harrow, Polish Club in Colchester). • Personal Stories of moments of time on Council. • Personal stories from century farm owners. Interested parties can submit their stories to heritage@essex.ca no later than February 11, 2022.

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Thursday, February 3, 2022

News I 13

Essex Free Press

Tecumseh Council special meeting - January 26, 2022 submitted to EFP On January 26, the Tecumseh Town Council met to consider two reports funded by the province through the Municipal Modernization Program. Special Meeting of Council Highlights Implementation Plan Next Step in Strategy for Commercial Areas: A shared economic development strategy for Tecumseh’s commercial areas, including one that is shared with Lakeshore, is ready to be put into action. Council endorsed the plan after a presentation by consultant Nancy Johnston, of McSweeney & Associates, about the Shared Commercial Economic Development Strategy – a joint effort by the Town, Tecumseh Business Improvement Area and Municipality

of Lakeshore. It encompasses the commercial areas surrounding: Manning Road and its intersections with Tecumseh Road and Amy Croft Drive; Tecumseh Road at and west of Lesperance Road; and Lesperance Road south of County Road 22. An analysis by McSweeney found retail sector employment in Tecumseh and Lakeshore increased by over 600 jobs between 2011 and 2021. The strategy report recommends that after the pandemic retailers will benefit from embracing the trend of selling in person and online, as well as transitioning stores to provide experience-focused shopping. The goals of the strategy revolve around three themes: collaborating and connecting; creating a destination; and branding, communication and marketing. Included in the latter are initiatives to improve the

viability of the retail sector, which has been hit hard by the pandemic. During the development of the strategy 133 stakeholders were consulted through one-on-one interviews (27), an online survey that was open to the public (81) and a virtual business summit (25). The strategy report will be posted on the Town’s website. The next step is to develop an implementation plan in collaboration with Lakeshore, which will be brought to Council by administration in the future. Review Recommends Automated Payroll System: The Town should eliminate paper timesheets and move to an automated reporting system, says a review of Tecumseh’s payroll processing system endorsed by Council. Blackline Consulting partner, Ian Shelley and senior consultant, Graham Pressey

presented Council with the results of their review. It recommends changes to eliminate paper and streamline the payroll processing system. The recommended changes include enhancing or replacing the Town’s current financial reporting software. The review also suggests adopting a bi-weekly pay period and shifting the responsibility for tracking benefits and entitlement from payroll staff to Human Resources. The Payroll Processing Review will be posted on the Town’s website and administration will report back to Council with an implementation plan. Next Regular Meeting: The next regular meeting of Council is February 8, 2022. The agenda and livestream will be available on the Town’s website.

14 I Activity Page Essex Free Press

I Thursday, February 3, 2022

Exercise The Mind! Puzzles and activities for readers of all ages!

AORTIC ARTERY ATRIUM BEAT BLOOD CARDIAC

CHAMBERS COORDINATED HEART LEFT LUNGS MITRAL

NUTRIENTS OXYGEN PATTERN PULMONARY PULSE RIGHT

TISSUES TRICUSPID VALVE VEIN VENA CAVA VENTRICLE

Kid’s Crossword ACROSS 1. Part of a bird’s face 3. Consume 6. Look for 8. Opposite of “off ” 9. Gloomy DOWN 1. Food for birds 2. Love deeply 4. Food rewards 5. Oily or greasy substance 7. Solely

sudoku

Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

See Answers on Page 19

Thursday, February 3, 2022

News I 15

Essex Free Press

Amherstburg residents may be asked to consider ward system - the question, if Council passes by-law, will be asked on the 2022 Municipal Election ballot -

Pictured is Valerie Critchley, Interim Director of Legislative Services/Clerk for the Municipality of Amherstburg, who hosted an information session on Monday evening about the Town’s intention of placing a question on the 2022 Municipal Ballot: Are you in favour of a ward election system?

by Sylene Argent On Monday, Administration for the Town of Amherstburg hosted a statutory public meeting on possibly placing a question on the 2022 Municipal Election ballot regarding the option of introducing a ward system. Valerie Critchley, Interim Director of Legislative Services/Clerk for the Municipality of Amherstburg, hosted the information session, meant to provide information about the question and answer any questions residents may have on the matter. On August 12, 2019, Amherstburg Council asked Administration to re-evaluate the Town’s electoral system and give a report on the different options. On June 2, 2020, Administration brought that report to Council, complete with research gathered on the various options available. Currently, Critchley said, Amherstburg uses an “At Large” electorate system, where electors vote for the mayor, deputy mayor, and five councillors.

In May of last year, Council directed the following question be placed on the 2022 Municipal Election Ballot, “Are you in favour of a ward election system?” Once the public meeting has been concluded, a by-law will be brought forward to Amherstburg Council for consideration, which would authorize the placing of the question on the ballot. The by-law would need to be passed prior to March 1 in order to be added to the ballot. The benefit of adding the question to the ballot helps Council to capture what residents of Amherstburg think about the issue, she said. The three election system options include at large, the ward system, and a mix system. In an “at large” system, electors vote for all the offices available. In a “ward system,” the mayor is elected at large and Councillors are elected by ward, based on groupings on geographical areas. Each ward would have a set number of Councillor positions per ward. The elector would vote for the mayor and

the councillor(s) for the ward they live in. In this scenario, the deputy mayor position would be selected by the elected Council members. In a mixed system, the mayor and deputy mayor positions would be elected at large, and councillors would be elected by the residents in the ward they are running for. In respect to how ward boundaries would be determined, Critchley said, Council would set those boundaries, based on criteria said to be best practices. For example, consideration would be given to ensure each ward has around the same number of electors. The Town of Amherstburg could implement a three ward or five ward system, where the mayor would be elected at large and each ward would have two council reps. The deputy mayor would be selected by the elected council reps.

In a five ward system, Critchley said, the mayor and deputy mayor would be elected at large, and the Town would then be divided into five wards, which would each be represented by one council rep. Boundaries have not yet been determined by Council and voters will not be asked to vote for a particular ward system, just the concept of having a ward system.

Critchley added that more than 50 percent of the electorate would need to vote in the 2020 Municipal Election for the vote to be binding. In addition, of those who voted, over 50 percent would need to vote in favour. P r e v i o u s l y , Amherstburg Council asked Administration to look at possibly using the three ward system, using Amherstburg, Anderdon, and Malden.

Administration determined this would not be recommended, because it would not meet the population criteria, with the Anderdon area having much lower population. The video of the meeting will be posted on amherstburg.ca for those who would like more information. Questions can also be emailed to clerk@ amherstburg.ca.

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16 I Classifieds Essex Free Press

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HIRING! LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE and LANDSCAPE LABOURERS, $18/hour. Experience necessary. Fax your resume to (519) 723-2336 or email to quinlaninc@ 1-1tfn kelcom.igs.net _____________________ 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.

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I Thursday, February 3, 2022

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Voice Of Inspiration “Your best will never be good enough, to the ones constantly searching for your flaws. But for you to be the best, you need to ignore your flaws and do your best.”

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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. 1-tfn _____________________ Cash for GOLD SILVER JEWELRY + All COINS FREE ESTIMATES Fri., Feb 4 +& Sat., Feb 5 at Essex Railway Station, 87 Station St Essex - PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE ALL Gold + silver JEWELRY. Even some costume. Any Gold (even teeth) OLD COINS Canada USA World War Medals Windup Watches, Mintsets, Pocket watches, Old Guitars. Housecalls also available. Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 54 years Exp. 519-818-1805.

Information on this and all Town of Tecumseh news and events is available at www.tecumseh.ca, www.tecumsehapp.ca, Twitter (@TownofTecumseh), and Facebook (Town of Tecumseh).

~ Gift Gugu Mona

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Feature I 17

Essex Free Press

BLACK HISTORY MONTH: Canada’s only surviving quadruple amputee of the First World War submitted to EFP As February marks Black History Month, The War Amps is paying tribute to Ethelbert “Curley” Christian (1883-1954), one of the Association’s founding members who was believed to have been the only surviving quadruple amputee of the First World War. Christian lived in Manitoba and served with the 78th Battalion (Winnipeg Grenadiers). During the Battle of Vimy Ridge, he was wounded when heavy shelling buried him in a trench. With debris crushing all four of his limbs, he lay on the battlefield for two days before being found close to death. Two stretcher bearers were struck and killed by shells while carrying Christian off the battlefield, but he again survived. Later, in a French hospital, gangrene set in and both of his arms and legs had to be amputated. While Christian was recovering at Christie Street Veterans Hospital in Toronto, he met his future wife, Cleo MacPherson, who was a volunteer aid. MacPherson noted that it was costly for the government to keep Christian at the hospital and felt that she could

take care of him at home. However, it would be a full-time job which meant she would be unable to work. The hospital director appealed to the Canadian government on the Christians’ behalf, which led to the creation of the Attendance Allowance, a supplement to full time caregivers of wounded veterans. This benefit still exists today. Christian was also one of the founding members of The War Amps, an organization started more than 100 years ago by amputee veterans returning from the First World War to bring together, support and fight the battles for amputee veterans. It was these First World War veterans who welcomed the new contingent of amputees following the Second World War, helping them adapt to their new reality and sharing all that they had learned. Many members of The War Amps considered Christian an inspiration to all amputees and were quick to think, “If Curley can do it, I can!” “When you are surrounded by others who are accomplishing things, it stimulates you to try,” said Christian. “Today,

there are young fellows coming back [from the war] with arms or legs gone. They’re diffident, bashful, frightened. You can never know the misery they suffer mentally as well as physically. At [The War Amps] that vanishes. We’re all among our own kind. We boost each other mentally and we learn things physically.” Today, The War Amps continues to serve veteran amputees, and all Canadian amputees, including children. Rob Larman, a director with the Association and a leg amputee himself said, “Curley Christian continues to have a legendary status in The War Amps for how he overcame his amputations, particularly at a time when disability was very much a hidden and taboo subject.” Christian returned to Vimy in 1936 with his fellow war amputees for the unveiling of the Vimy Ridge Memorial. He passed away in 1954, and in Toronto reporter Gregory Clark’s eulogy of Christian, he said, “After the Vimy battle, Curley Christian lived 37 years a happy man, going to the races, playing gin rummy, attending meetings, speaking and standing

Black History Month: War Amps pays tribute to Canada’s only surviving quadruple amputee of the First World War – As February marks Black History Month, The War Amps is paying tribute to Ethelbert “Curley” Christian (1883-1954), one of the Association’s founding members who was believed to have been the only surviving quadruple amputee of the First World War. During the Battle of Vimy Ridge, Christian was crushed under dirt from an exploding shell and both of his arms and legs had to be amputated. War Amps Rob Larman and Tiffany Ross, a member of the War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program are pictured laying a rose at the grave of Mr. Christian, at Toronto’s Prospect Cemetery.

Photos: Left: Ethelbert “Curley” Christian. • Right: War Amps Rob Larman and Tiﬀany Ross, a member of the War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program laid a rose at the grave of Ethelbert “Curley” Christian, at Toronto’s Prospect Cemetery.

forth for his Comrades, an inspiration to all those with lesser fates

who might grieve for themselves. Curley never grieved. There was

enough of him left to be a man among men.”

18 I Personals Essex Free Press

FromThe Heart

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OBITUARIES

I Thursday, February 3, 2022

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. _________________________________________________________

OBITUARIES

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OBITUARIES

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DENNIS, Ernest - It is with sadness we announce the passing of Ernie on January 23, 2022 at Erie Shores Hospital. Beloved husband of Diana (nee Ouellette) for 65 years. Loving father of Tammy Dennis and Lou-Anne Mayville (late Paul 2017). Cherished grandfather of Chantelle, Carolyn (Emmanuel), and Christopher (Alyssa). Great-grandfather of Katarina. Son of the late Isaac and Ruth Dennis. Predeceased by brothers of Ken Dennis, Howard Dennis, Orville Dennis, and sister Mabel Boudreau. Brother-in-law of Hedy Dennis, Betty Dennis, Agnes Dennis, Valerie Dobson (late Robin), Jeannette Ware (Neil), Richard Ouellette (Sherry) (late Judy). Ernie will be missed by nieces, nephews, and friends. Ernie was a skilled millwright, who loved to work with his hands. His visions and ultimate workmanship amazed those that saw his ﬁnished accomplishments. We will miss seeing Ernie riding around town on his scooter, in line at the Tim Horton’s Drive thru (and for all of you that bought him a coﬀee, thank you!) or tending to various lawn, garden and snow removal needs with his John Deere tractor. Ernie lovingly supported Diana in her various church and community choirs, jumping in where needed; be it singing, narrating, or providing technological sound support. A private family service was held. If desired, memorial donations made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Diabetes Canada, or Essex United Church would be appreciated by contacting the Reid Funeral Home, 87 Maidstone Avenue East, Essex (519776-4233). Share words of comfort at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.

TAYLOR, Judy (nee Mills) - With deep sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Judy on January 26, 2022, at 79 years of age. Beloved wife of Gerald with whom she celebrated 62 years of marriage. Loving mother of Gerry (Beth), Tracey, late Randy (1997), Sherry (Blaise), Kelly (Andy). Treasured grandmother of Laura, Craig, Kevin, Chris, Adam, Kara, Shawna-Lee (John), Dezarae (Shawn), Dalton, Danyelle, Jeffrey (Stephanie), Jasmyn. Great-grandmother of 12 great grandchildren. Beloved daughter of the late Robert Mills and Marie Duggan. Loving sister of Rick and the late Penny Pinch. Sister-in-law of the late Bernice (Denis), late Shirley, late Sally (late Bob), late Sharon (late Cliff ), Mary (Jerry), Irene (Richard), Mickey, Jackie, Shelley. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Also remembered by her lifelong friends, Shirley, Emilia, and Sharon. Judy was a dedicated mother; she was most happy spending her time taking care of her family. Cremation has taken place. Masks & reservations are required to attend the visitation by booking online at www.kennedyfh.com. The visitation and life celebration was held at the Kennedy Funeral Home Ltd. (519-776-7378) 128 Talbot St. North, Essex. The funeral can be viewed on Judy’s online profile at www.kennedyfh.com In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Essex Food Bank or the charity of your choice. You may send your condolences online at www.kennedyfh.com

DULLEGE, Kathleen - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, who so ever believeth in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 Kathleen passed away peacefully into the arms of our Heavenly Father on Monday, January 24, 2022 at Country Village Health Care Centre at 90 years of age. She is now reunited with her beloved husband and best friend, Ronald (2017). Loving Mother of Sue O’Donovan and husband, Patrick. Adored Grandma of Erin Miller and husband, Brandon. Proud Great-Grandma of Mileena Miller. Dearest sister of the late Patrick Duggan and sister-in-law of Patricia and husband, Carl Jackson. Kathleen will also be fondly remembered by her nieces, nephews, and friends. Kathleen was a woman of strong faith and taught us many life lessons that we will forever cherish and live by. The family would like to give their gratitude to the staﬀ at Country Village for their loving care shown to Kathleen. Visitation was held at the Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 87 Maidstone Ave. E., Essex (519-776-4233) on Friday, January 28, 2022 from 10 am until time of Funeral Service celebrating her life at 11 am. Interment followed at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery. To view the service online, share memories, photos or make a donation online you may visit www.reidfuneralhome.ca If desired memorial donations made to the Humane Society Windsor Essex would be appreciated.

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GILLETT, Ron “Gilly” - With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Ron with his family by his side on January 25, 2022, at 64 years of age. Son of the late Lyle and Judy Gillett. Dear husband of Tami (nee Allen). Loving father of Jana Gillett and Dane Gillett (Janie). Treasured Gingham of Tyson and Cole. Brother of Sandy, Carol, and the late Dan. Son-in-law of Bernard and Marilyn Allen. Brother-in-law of Diana and Dana. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Special thanks to Geri and Michele for everything you are doing for our family. Ron was also a member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Essex. Masks & reservations are required to attend the visitation by booking online at www.kennedyfh.com. The visitation and life celebration was held at the Kennedy Funeral Home Ltd. (519-776-7378) 128 Talbot St. North, Essex. The service can be viewed on Ron’s online proﬁle at www.kennedyfh.com. Cremation followed. Donations may be made towards an education fund for Tyson & Cole, and it would be greatly appreciated by the family. (Cheques made to Jana Gillett-can be sent to the funeral home). You may send your condolences online at www.kennedyfh.com.

MELNIK, Donna Jean (nee Grant) Passed away peacefully at the Erie Shores Hospice on January 30, 2022, at 82 years of age. Beloved wife of the late Frank Joseph Melnik (2010). Dear mother of Shelley Voakes (Randy), the late Christopher Melnik (1977), Daniel Melnik, Sherry Bergeron, Robert Melnik, and Tracey Cipkar (Mike). Dearest grandmother of Kristen Chaborek, Jordan Chaborek, Justin Bergeron, Sabrina Cipkar, Savannah Cipkar, Miranda Cipkar, and the late Priscilla Campbell (2014). Great-grandmother of Aleks Winn, Isabella Lee, and Charlie John. Sister of Betty Herman, Jim Grant (Betty), Bern Grant, Katherine Garant (Eric), and Patricia Miller (Carey). Predeceased by Bill Grant and John Grant. Also survived many nieces and nephews. Donna was happiest when she was with her family, travelling, gardening, or decorating her home. We were fortunate to make some wonderful memories with her. A private service has taken place at the Kennedy Funeral Home Ltd. (519-776-7378) 128 Talbot St. North, Essex. Interment followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Maidstone. Donations may be made to Parkinson’s Foundation or to the Erie Shores Health Foundation (Erie Shores Hospice). You may send your condolences online at www.kennedyfh.com

What’s Going On... FEB. 4  TAKEOUT ONLY PASTA DINNER at St Paul’s Anglican Church (92 St Paul Street, Essex) from 5 - 6:30pm. Enter through the church. Call 519-776-7711 for info. FEB. 9  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

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OBITUARIES _______________________________________________ PURVIS, Clara Velda (nee Vivier) R.N. - With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Clara Velda Purvis at Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga on January 21, 2022, at 91 years of age. Beloved wife of the late John Dolway Purvis (2007). Loving mother of the late John Dolway Jr. (2013), David (Pauline), Brett, and Kathy Usher (Mark). Adored Grandmother of 10 and Great-Grandma of 9. Dear sister of Shirley Swalwell (Jim) and predeceased by siblings Maude, Bud, Freda, Earl (Evelyn), Velma, Roy, Henry (Diane), Linda and Stephen. Clara will also be missed by her many nieces and nephews, friends, and co-workers. She was a Registered Nurse (Grace Hospital 1951) and worked in her profession a further 20 years at Peel Memorial Hospital in Brampton. The caregiver in Clara never stopped. Even with Dementia, she helped other residents in her home with daily tasks. She loved gardening, playing the slots, but mostly she loved talking and being with her family. The visitation and life celebration was held at the Kennedy Funeral Home Ltd. (519-776-7378), 128 Talbot St. North, Essex. The life celebration can be viewed on Clara’s online proﬁle at www.kennedyfh.com. Interment followed at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. Donations made be made to Alzheimer’s Society of Windsor & Essex County. You may send your cherished memories online at www.kennedyfh.com.

FEB. 16  AMHERSTBURG BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - Knights of Columbus, 190 Richmond St. 2-7pm. To book an appointment: www.blood.ca OR 1-800-2-DONATE. MAR. 9  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, February 3, 2022

Community Hub

Essex Free Press

prayers. Please stay safe!

Salvation Army Essex Church

sponsorship by:

submitted by Carolyn Barnett

Fresh food. Friendly neighbours 191 Talbot St. S., Essex

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. Visit us at www.essexcrc. ca for a link to our social media page for upcoming services. At this time, we cannot oﬀer nursery supervision or Sunday school. Come be part of the community! Our ‘Take-abook-Leave-a-book’ library is now in front of Essex CRC church.

Essex United Church Join us on Sunday, January 30 at 10:30 am for our regular worship service. Keep up to date on our website: www. essexunitedchurch.ca Also,

you can join us on our social media. The Essex Food Bank is open - Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30am – 11:45am. The Food Bank phone number is: 519-7764070.

Central Essex County Catholic Family of Parishes Essex, Maidstone, McGregor, and Woodslee news New spiritual resources for all ages can be found on our website under Resources. Dues for 2022 for CWL and K of C, can be dropped off at the office or in the collection basket at your church. For up to date news, please visit our website at: centralessexcatholic.dol. Please keep all front line workers, students, teachers and school staff in your

Join us for Family Worship led by Major Jim Hann on Sundays at 10:30a.m. Masks and social distancing are required. Hand Sanitizer is provided. Bible Study is suspended until further notice. Our Food Bank continues to serve our community. For information, please call the church oﬃce at: 519-7764628.

Trinity Anglican Church Although the days and nights are cold, the days are getting longer. Vestry will take place on Feb. 6 at 11 am. A link for the online meeting will be emailed. If you plan to attend via phone, please contact a warden for the information. Please bring your old palms to church.They will be burned and the ashed used on Ash Wednesday. Our online service for Sunday, February 6 may be found on Hilton’s YouTube channel as well as our social media page. We will resume indoor services on Sunday, February 13th. Please join us at 9:15am with Rev.’d Hilton Gnomes. Covid protocols including mask wearing, social distancing, etc are in place. While registration is not necessary; it is appreciative. To register

please call Pat at 519-7768005 May you ﬁnd love and comfort in those who surround you.

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). www.essexbaptist. com , 71 Maidstone Ave East.

Bethel-Maidstone United 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. We have a new email address: bethelmaidstone@ gmail.com. The oﬃce is closed until February 7th. Contact information is on the outgoing message on the church answering machine, should you need to reach someone. Our Annual Meeting is

set for Sunday, February 20th following the service. Committee Chairs are asked to submit their reports to the oﬃce by February 6th. Our hall and building remain closed to meetings and rentals. The Children’s Drop-In Centre also continues to be paused at this time until further notice. The secretary can be reached Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9am to 1pm. Reach us by phone (519) 723-2284, email bmuc@ xplornet.ca or vist us online: www.bethelmaidstone.com. Located 933 Talbot Road, Maidstone.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church submitted by Sandra Lypps

Our weekly worship is online for this week and we return to in-person worship on Sunday, February 13th at 11am, we look forward to seeing you! On Friday, February 4th, from 5 - 6:30pm, we will host a takeout-only pasta dinner. Consider bringing your own containers and enter through the church. Our annual Vestry meeting takes place this Sunday, February 6th at 12pm in the church or via Google meet If you are cleaning out closets, please keep our Clothing Cupboard in mind. We are always in need of good, gently used clothing to give to those in need. For more information, about what is happening at St Paul’s, visit our website (www.stpaulstrinity.org) and

I 19

social media for updates. You can reach us at 519-7767711. Stay safe and see you soon!

Woodslee United Church submitted by Sue Holman

Come join us for Sunday Service at 11:15 am. Rev. Carl will lead the service. A video sermon is available each week on our website. Also the bulletin is on the site. The website address is www. woodsleepastoralcharge.ca. Please say a special prayer for our friends on our pray list. This Sunday, February 6 our Congregational Meeting will be held. The meeting will be after the church service. If you do not have a copy of the Annual Report, you can pick one up in the church hall. Please say a special for our friends on our Prayer List. There are no special events planned at this time.

Brooker News submitted by Ruth Newman

Worship service this Sunday, February 6 at 10am with Linda Hollingsworth bringing the message. The annual business meeting will follow after the service. On Sunday, February 13, Mike Morency will be with us. Masks and social distancing are required. Please remember in prayer, those in our community who are ill, those in nursing homes, the people of Wheately, and our goverment.

Activity Page Answers... from Page 14

Kid’s Crossword Answers: ACROSS 1. Beak 3. Eat 6. Seek 8. On 9. Dreary DOWN 1. Birdseed 2. Adore 4. Treats 5. Fat 7. Only

20 I Business Directory Essex Free Press

I Thursday, February 3, 2022

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News / Business Directory I 21

Essex Free Press

Essex Council presented overview of the new Development Standards Manual by Sylene Argent On Monday evening, Essex Council received the presentation Carston Gregory, of Dillon Consulting Limited, made regarding the draft Developmental Standards Manual. Lori Chadwick, Director of Development Services, explained the Development Standards Manual is a new document, which consolidated the Town of Essex’s development requirements into one document. “It is essentially a ‘how to’ manual for how to build in the Town of Essex,” Chadwick said. Information found within the pages of the draft document include what to expect during the planning approval process, to design criteria for sidewalks and cul-de-sacs, consideration for climate adaptation, and specifications for sewer sizes and materials. “This manual is the product of well over a year’s worth of collaboration, designing, writing, editing, editing, and more editing,” Chadwick said. In addition to working with Dillon Consulting to develop the manual, Chadwick said the Development Services and Infrastructure Services departments for the

Town of Essex collaborated on the project. Monday’s overview, she added, provided the opportunity to walk Council members through the document. She noted feedback and questions were welcome. Those with input are urged to contact Kevin Girard, Director of Infrastructure, or Chadwick to submit comments or concerns by February 11. She hopes to present the final draft of the Development Standards Manual to Council on February 22. Gregory explained the Town issued an RFP in 2020 to create the document, as the last update was completed nearly 20-years ago. The purpose of the manual, Gregory noted, is to clarify and enforce Town requirements and processes as it pertains to planning, agreements, infrastructure design, approvals, and construction. The intent is that the manual will streamline development, reduce red tape, consolidate previously disconnected processes, and will become a ‘one-stopshop’ for a development roadmap. Residential subdivision developers, commercial developers, consultants, engineers, architects, contractors,

builders, residents, Town staff, and private utilities will be able to use the manual to help them navigate through requirements as they embark on projects, Gregory noted. The manual should help the Town strive for better development and consistency of requirements among developers, Gregory said. In addition to brainstorming with other Town of Essex departments, Gregory noted an in-depth review was also conducted of existing infrastructure requirements and proposed design for better infrastructure was also completed with the Building Department. The manual is interactive, allowing users to click on the table of contents, ensuring information can be found quickly, Gregory added. With the Town’s standards consolidated, there is nothing left to interpretation, he noted, adding federal, provincial, municipal, and environmental standards were adhered to when creating the policy, in addition to provincial guidelines and regional requirements. It was also harmonized with an array of Town of Essex documents and policies for consistency.

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22 I Opinion / Sports Essex Free Press

I Thursday, February 3, 2022

1962 Ford Galaxie in Alberta

Cam Branch is still playing volleyball and is now coaching

1962 Ford with gas filler door in middle.

An email arrived from Gary Adam in Edmonton, Alberta, proud owner of a 1962 Ford Galaxie 500 4-door sedan: “It has mostly original paint, original upholstery, original windshield, a beautiful cruiser! I bought it from the son of the original owner. It was sold new in Ontario.” The sight of this car reminds me of when I pumped gas at an ESSO station in Toronto in the early ‘60s. The 1962 Fords had the gas filler door in the middle at the back between the trunk lid and rear bumper with a metal hook to pull down the door to put in the gas. Ford pioneered this gas door location in 1952 and it was so convenient! You never had to back up and pull in again for gas if you pulled up on the wrong side. Chevrolet had its gas filler door on the left rear fender in 1955. One year later, it was in the driver’s side taillight. For 1957, it was in the driver’s side tailfin. For 1958, it was between the trunk lid and rear bumper. And for 1959, you pulled down the license plate to fill the car. We used to joke at the station about this. “Can’t the engineers at General Motors make up their mind where the gas goes in?” contact@essexfreepress.com issuu.com/essexfreepress One more feature on Gary’s 1962 Ford is worth noting. No tailfins! Nearly all cars in the late ‘50s had tailfins, with some cars looking like spaceships. The fad was gone by 1962. I’m always looking for stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca.

READ US ONLINE & IN PRINT

16 CENTRE ST., ESSEX

519.776.4268 www.essexfreepress.com

Photo by Peter Maurer. Cam Branch looks to spike the ball between two blocks during a game earlier this year.

by Garrett Fodor For as long as Cam Branch can remember, being involved in sports was not just a way of life, it was part of a family tradition. From hockey to badminton, football, basketball, and volleyball, Branch noted there was not a sport he did not try or participate in. Growing up, the now 27-year-old Cottam native recalled he got his start at a young age playing Timbits hockey and Kingsville Class basketball. But Branch admitted sports runs in his blood, with both his parents

and grandparents having backgrounds in athletics. “For me, sports were like my second language compared to English,” Branch recounted. “It just became natural for me to pursue the professional-level and a large part of the reason why I am where I am today is because of my family pushing me to be the best version of myself in sport.” While growing up, Branch noted he would play multiple sports and continued this trend when he got to the high schoolContinued on Page 23

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Sports I 23

Essex Free Press

Sports Feature: Cam Branch is still playing volleyball and is now coaching...

Photo by Udo Wohlrab. Cam Branch (centre) celebrates a point during a game in Germany earlier this year.

level. Branch began his high school tenure at Kingsville District High School, before transferring to Essex District High School in Grade 11. Branch noted that due to transfer policies, he could not participate in basketball or volleyball in his first year at EDHS, instead he played football, badminton, and track before switching back to volleyball and basketball in grade 12. “I feel playing multiple sports really helped develop my movement patterns,” Branch said. “Like basketball for jumping,

baseball for my reaction time, and track for speed. I feel those skills help translate to my success I am having and have had at volleyball. I always encourage young athletes to play multiple sports.” Branch said when he transferred to EDHS, he was drawn by the success the players and coaches have had. Looking back on his time at Essex, Branch noted how crucial the time was for him, saying even now, after all of the years later, some of his fondest memories go back to playing volleyball at EDHS, while still

being in contact with some of his past teammates. He would carry the memories with him to Nippising University, where he received a scholarship, playing for five seasons. “From Joe Amicarelli, to Dave Harrison, and Lindsay Drozdz, the coaches I had were incredible. They really helped us develop as athletes and young men,” Branch said. “The cohesiveness I felt on the court at EDHS with my teammates is something that I’ve never felt. Just the celebrations in the huddle after a point or a big block and winning the championship made me fall in love with the sport more.” Following his time at EDHS, Branch went on to Nippising University, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in health and physical education, before getting his masters in Kinesiology and Exercise Psychology. While at Nippising, Branch worked under Head Coach Eric Young, and Branch noted that it was a learning experience. “In my first year, I had to learn that I wasn’t good at volleyball and I needed

Continued from Page 22

to put my head down and get better,” Branch commented. “Once I realized it, I had to look myself in the mirror and do something about it. I am lucky to have had such a great support system in my family, friends, and coaches past and present to get me through the good and the bad days.” Following his time at Nippising, Branch played in the professional ranks, beginning in Austria in 2019. He then suited up in France in 2020, before resuming his professional career in August as he headed to Germany to play for FC Schüttorf 09. Through this journey, Branch has been quick to share his knowledge and experience, quickly joining the coaching ranks, training athletes and forming his own company, Branch Sports Performance. The company specializes in strength and conditioning, injury prevention, and nutrition education. At a young age, Branch noted he quickly fell in love with coaching and

Continued on Page 24

24 I News / Sports Essex Free Press

I Thursday, February 3, 2022

Essex MP spent the weekend in Ottawa speaking with protesters by Sylene Argent Over the weekend, Essex MP Chris Lewis spent time in downtown Ottawa to speak to those who were peacefully and lawfully protesting as part of the trucker freedom convoy. “I did go down, certainly in support of the lawful protest, not the

hooligans, so to speak, and there are very few of them here,” he said. “When you deface the Terry Fox statue and you dance on the Unknown Soldier’s grave, that is not what I am here to do.” Lewis said he spent time speaking to individuals who were peacefully protesting, to

really understand what they are after. “This movement is far beyond truckers. This movement is about a complete array of things, and I know it because I listen to it literally 24/7. The horns are honking, the people are in the streets. People are tired, frustrated, and angry, and they want

their lives back,” Lewis said. “There lies the real simplicity of what this is all about. People are tired after two-years, they want direction, they need to be heard. I am proud to be up here,” he said of the pandemic. Lewis noted a large majority of folks who have contacted his office, over 500 in one day, were thankful he made himself available to listen. “My service is to listen, have open dialogue and open conversation, then bring the voice of the majority to the House of Commons. That’s why I’m proud to be up here.” There are fringe groups there he does not align with, but the majority of people there are lawfully, peacefully protesting, “And that is a right of all Canadians. Does it disrupt downtown [Ottawa]? You are darn

right it does. It is tough to get any sleep, but people are fed up and they want answers,” Lewis said. On Friday, Lewis and members of the Conservative caucus, including Leader Erin O’Toole and MPs who have border communities, met with the Truckers’ Association. “We really wanted to listen to the association and understand where they were coming from,” Lewis said of the meeting. “There was great dialogue. There was really good discussion as to what exactly they are after and how their members are affected.” The Truckers’ Association, Lewis noted, was speaking to represent the trucking industry, showing concern about having 24,000 to 26,000 not being able to cross the border. They have concern for supply chains, not only in regards to food, but for

automotive parts. “They were basically coming to the table to see how we can move forward, so the industry is not completely wiped out at the knees, with the rising cost of fuel, insurance rates, and those types of things,” Lewis said. “Those are the things the truckers are really after.” It goes beyond what the truckers are going though, however, it is about how it will impact people’s lives, he added. Lewis said he was proud to be part of the conversation. If open dialogue and communication does not happen, the country cannot move forward, Lewis said. He thanked Essex for the opportunity to serve. “It is probably one of the greatest honours to serve in the most difficult times. And so, for that, I thank Essex,” Lewis said.

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Sports Feature: Cam Branch is still playing volleyball and is now coaching... Continued from Page 23 always believed he’d be involved in it. “I remember I was helping coach a basketball camp with my Aunt Andrea in Grade 8 or 9 and just then it felt like destiny,” Branch recalled.

“I think it’s a cycle and in our best interest as athletes when we are in these shoes and this position to give back to the community and the next generation. I had the benefit from learning and being shaped by some great coaches and they have helped develop my coaching and playing philosophy, so it is my duty to follow in their steps.” When Branch is working with young aspiring athletes, he encourages youth to set goals and not to be hard on themselves. He reminds them, not everyday is going to be perfect and not everything will be easy. Branch encourages parents and youth to continue to develop and not to specialize in one sport growing up, to avoid burnout while helping their development. Despite the distance and the time that has passed, Branch does not forget his roots. As Branch continues to play professionally, he noted that he remains in contact with his past teammates

along with coaches at EDHS, including Amicarelli, Harrison, and Drozdz. He credits their hard work in helping him, and his teammates, get on the map from such a small community. Looking ahead, Branch noted he aspires to do the same and help the next generation reach their goals. As he reflected, he noted the pressure he has faced and credits the support he has received as he believes he could not do it without the people behind him. Outside of the coaches and teammates he had, Branch credits the support and feedback he had from his family, including his parents, Steve and Bethany, along with his siblings and grandparents. “I don’t know if I would be where I am today if it wasn’t for my family,” Branch said. “My mom, because I didn’t have a bus to Essex, she would drive me 25-minutes each way, everyday to school, sacrificing her time and her gas to help me get there.”