Essex Free Press - February 16, 2023

by Sylene Argent

Recently, members of Essex Council and staff were just a handful of the record-breaking attendance of more than 1,500 participants who attended the 2023 Rural Ontario Municipalities Association (ROMA) conference in Toronto.

ROMA - which promotes, supports, and enhances strong and effective rural governments – offered its conference to connect neighbouring municipal decisionmakers to one another, in addition to provincial ministries and political party leaders.

Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy and Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley both attended the conference, and brought back with them some great new connections and information that will hopefully help make a positive impact on the future of the municipality.

The duo also noted Essex seems to be ahead of other municipalities in the province in some key areas, such as with Short-Term Rentals (STRs).

After attending a workshop on STRs during the ROMA conference, Bondy said she found Essex was “leading the pack” on the matter regarding licensing.

She said the workshop was full, and she gathered many municipalities do not have a licensing system for STRs as of yet, and many are struggling to find a balance between having STRs and not allowing them to have too much of an impact on long-term rental opportunities.

Essex, Bondy added, seemed to have the lowest STR licensing fee.

In May, Council adopted a By-Law to license and regulate STRs. The By-Law has a fee for the three-year license of $700. STRs are permitted in a residential zoning district, only if it has been established and in operation in an existing dwelling on or before the adoption of the By-Law on May 9 of 2022, after which a site-specific rezoning through Council is needed for allowance.

New or existing STRs are permitted in a single-detached dwelling in an agricultural district, or in a dwelling or dwelling unit in a commercial district in Essex. New

STRs are permitted in a cabin within a campground in a green district. A demerit points system is connected for contravening rules, in addition to administrative penalty fees that could be charged.

Shepley said he attended a workshop on Asset Management, and believed representatives at the conference from the Town of Essex could have been up on the stage presenting on the matter. He said the County is doing well on this matter as well.

An Asset Management Plan assists in the planning for the future replacement of municipal infrastructure.

Going through the information, as having recently been elected, it assured him the training he and fellow members of Essex Council are receiving is good.

“We are in a good place. We have work to do, but we are ahead,” he said.

In October, the Town’s Asset Management Plan was approved and updated.

Following updating its Asset Management Plan and formalizing a Debt Management Policy last year, the Finance Department is working on creating a Reserve Management Strategy this year and hopes to further work on an Investment Policy.

After seeing a household countertop composter on display at ROMA, Bondy would like Essex to squeeze $5000 into the 2023 Budget to launch a pilot project that would allow the Town to subsidize part of the cost of these machines for a handful of interested residents, who would partner on the program.

In addition, Bondy said she learned a lot about different municipalities, and that rural homelessness is an issue in many areas. This typically looks like couch surfing or staying in hidden places. Locally, that is being worked on at a regional-level.

Also during the conference, Bond said there were many Indigenous speakers. Her take away was the desire to rebuild relationships with communities, which has to be done not only on the national-level, but locally.

Bondy said it needs to be ensured that Truth and

Reconciliation ceremonies are in-depth. The Town holds an annual flag-raising, however, she thought perhaps partnerships can be formed to enhance the recognition event.

Shepley said they were also part of a session where municipal reps were able to ask questions of Premier Ford’s Ministers. Many of which focused on rural healthcare.

Overall, attending the conference was great as members of Council were able to build regional relationships as a new Term of Council, Shepley said.

Essex Council passes 3.91% tax increase in principle

by Sylene Argent

Council for the Town of Essex passed an average 3.91 percent tax increase (including County and School Board levies) for 2023 in principle.

The decision was made at the Budget Deliberation meeting on Monday, meant to allow Council the opportunity to debate and set priorities for this year’s Operating and Capital Budgets.

That means, on a median house in Essex, this would be an average annual increase of just under $117 per average household valued at $189,000 (via MPAC records).

This was slightly lower than the 4.12 percent increase presented during the 2023 Budget Walkthrough hosted on January 18.

Administration proposed a 2023 Budget with revenues and expenses totalling $68.5M; of which $21M would come from taxation. In addition, internal transfers totaled $16M (monies coming out of reserve), $14M in user fees, $10M in grants, $4M in contributions from developers, over $1M in licensing, penalties, and fees, and nearly $1M in investments and other income.

The proposed 2023 Budget includes $55M in total operating revenue. Nearly 40 percent of taxation is what funds the Operating Budget. Salaries account for nearly 25 percent of the Town’s Operating Budget.

The Town also proposed a Capital Budget of $13.1M.

Kate Giurissevich, Director of Corporate Services/ Treasurer, noted the Budget designated 1.8 percent to a roads levy. She added around two percent of growth was incorporated into the 2023 Budget to offset additional expenses.

She explained when there is a large-scale development, the Town does not realize the tax revenue from it immediately. It can take three-years from the time a building permit is issued to when there is taxation revenue.

Adjusting for inflation, she said, was one of the biggest hurdles in putting together this year’s Budget. In addition, it was completed by incorporating the Strategic Plan and ways to find alternative revenue streams to keep the tax increase stable.

CAO Doug Sweet this was the hardest budget to put together in his career, due to the inflationary costs.

Council approved the 2023 proposed Operating Budget in principle. This includes four fulltime positions – a horticulture operator to assist with growing needs, a junior planner as the current contract position will end, and splitting the existing Executive Assistant for HR/ Office of the CAO into two positions, which will also assist with communications. In addition, it includes a fulltime Water Operator, which was preapproved.

It also includes a $50,000 increase in Council remuneration.

Councillor Jason Matyi expressed concern over the

increase to Council remuneration.

Giurissevich explained Essex’s Council pay is significantly lower than other municipalities. An increase will help in attracting diverse candidates as a lot of time gets put into a Council position.

Council also approved the proposed 2023 Capital Budget in principle.

In looking at ways to reduce the originally proposed tax increase, Council moved to cut in half the $50,000 in the Council Contingency Fund – used to support unexpected projects that come up throughout the year. It also removed the virtual meeting room hardware for Harrow that was posted for $27,000.

Council was also able to fund $18,000 of the $30,000 needed for the CWATS feasibility study for Maidstone Avenue through recently announced OCIF grant monies received, instead of through taxation.

In addition, upgrades needed for the Colchester Community Centre were reduced by $55,393, as the project came in lower than expected, for a total cost of $160,000.

$20,000 was saved from the safety door project as a good price was found and was completed from surplus in the Operating Budget in 2022.

The heat exchangers, however, at the Essex

Continued on Page 6

Voice Of Inspiration

“Friendship- my definition- is built on two things. Respect and trust. Both elements have to be there. And it has to be mutual. You can have respect for someone, but if you don’t have trust, the friendship will crumble.”

~ Stieg Larsson

&Editorial Opinion

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

A London Publishing Corporation Publication

LIMITED OFFICE HOURS:

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

OUR STAFF

Desiree Elachkar - Office Administration

Kristin Gereige - Distribution Manager

Jessica Azar - Graphic Design / Production

Lana Warwick - Graphic Design

Greg Belchuk - Advertising Sales

Sylene Argent - Editor/News Reporter

Doug Rowe - Operations Manger

CIRCULATION

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

DELIVERY

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

ARCHIVES

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

OPINION & COMMENT

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

LETTER POLICY

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

ADVERTISING

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

Display Advertising Deadline: Friday at 2:00 pm

COPYRIGHT

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

The Essex Free Press

Office: 16 Centre St. Essex, Ontario

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

Phone: 519.776.4268

email: contact@essexfreepress.com

www.essexfreepress.com

Howling at the Moon

••• Comment by Sylene Argent •••

Most anything can be taken offensively

Recently, in this newspaper, we read that the GECDSB Trustees tabled a report that listed recommended school name or mascot changes.

“Tabled” means it can be brought back for further discussion in the future, if there is desire around that decision-making table to do so.

The list included six school names – located throughout the region, all of which were named after royalty. It was noted many were listed because, it “represented the Royal Family which was at the centre of British imperialism and colonialism.”

The Report also highlights eight mascots, including Essex District High School’s Red Raider, because “Raiders typically symbolize victory through brutality and violence. Additionally, Raiders represent those that invade with the purpose to steal and is inconsistent with GECDSB character education. Although not implied through the imagery of this mascot, ‘red’ is a derogatory term used towards Indigenous people. It has roots in the conflicts of settler territorial control of sovereign native land.”

Kingsville District High School’s team name, the Cavaliers, was targeted for a similar reason. “A cavalier is a

knight on horseback. Knights are part of the British Royalists who wanted the monarchy to maintain divine rule.”

School mascots are supposed to be “aggressive.” Sports is about winning and a team name is supposed to show determination, grit, and courage.

Were Vikings known for their brutality? Of course. I doubt, however, there has been an instance where the theme of a school mascot alone encouraged an act of violence. The team mascot is hyperbolic and is not suggesting students literally model their morals after the Nomadic explorers.

Though I can appreciate the sentiment of wanting to make any space one that is inclusive, we also have to realize that anything can be taken offensively, and we need to keep context in mind.

As far as the GECDSB’s list, I was surprised Belle River High School’s team name, as the Nobels, didn’t make the cut. As a person of noble rank or birth, that certainly would be divisive as it suggests a class system.

Also, Walkerville’s team name is the “Tartans,” which is a Scottish patterned cloth, which some could find non-inclusive for those who are not

Scottish.

If there was such concern over the school names, perhaps the best course of action would be to wait until the school is rebuilt in order to do so, like renaming General Amherst North Star High School when it was recently rebuilt.

That would at least be more costeffective.

One of the largely discussed issues was the cost associated with school name/mascot changes, because the report noted a minimum budget of $50,000 per elementary school and $100,000 per secondary school should be allocated in the Board annual budget to address the proposed changes to school names and/or mascots, which may include potential items, such as the school sign, uniforms, letterhead, or painted emblems throughout the school.

My point is, if you look hard enough, you can find something wrong with just about anything. We have to remember to keep context in mind.

MP Lewis reacts to “pause” on C-21 amendments

by Sylene Argent

Last week, Liberals withdrew amendments G-4 and G-46 added to Bill C-21 [An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)] at a Public Safety Committee meeting.

Minister of Public Safety of Canada, Marco Mendicino, shared a statement online that notes Liberals “will work with parliamentary colleagues to craft a clear solution that will keep assault-style weapons off our streets.”

It adds the intention was to focus on assault-style weapons, not firearms commonly used for hunting.

His statement notes in 2020, Liberals introduced a ban on assault-style weapons. In 2022, C-21 was tabled, which includes a handgun freeze.

Essex MP Chris Lewis believes that withdraw happened after there was so much pressure on the Liberals to do so.

He said Conservatives have been asking why take away legal firearms from legal hunters, farms, and sports shooters, as they believe this will not solve the issue of gun-related crime.

“After exhaustive years of putting pressure on the Liberal Government – the NDP/Liberal government, quite frankly, they finally came back with a little bit of common sense and said ‘we are going to put a temporary pause on this,’” Lewis

commented, referring to the amendments added to C-21 that he said listed legal rifles and long guns.

“I am happy there is a temporary pause on this, because it at least deescalates the fear and the heat of the situation today,” Lewis said. “The only way forward is for a majority Conservative government in the next election that will make darn sure we are protecting the rights and freedoms of lawful firearm owners.

“What [Conservatives] are going to do differently is we are actually going to proactively attack the gangs, the illegal gun smugglers. We are going to work with our border communities to ensure those illegal guns are not coming across the border. Farmers, hunters, and sport shooters are not the problem. They have never been the problem. We are going to attack what the problem is.”

C-21, Lewis said, is still set to ban handguns and assaultstyle rifles.

Continued on Page 5

CUPE 2974 paramedics in favour of strike action if impasse during ongoing negotiations

Just four-months after the County of Essex declared a local emergency regarding ambulance Code Blacks - occasions when there are no ambulances available to respond to 911 calls, the paramedics of

Essex County organized as CUPE 2974 voted 100 percent in favour of strike action, in the event of an impasse during ongoing contract negotiations.

That vote took place last week.

MP Lewis reacts to “pause” on C-21 amendments...

Continued from Page 4

“What the government tried to do was lump in a whole bunch of other [firearms] even shotguns that, quite frankly, were nothing remotely close to what Bill C-21 had introduced,” Lewis said, noting his guess is that the Liberals and NDP probably received a lot of pushback from their own constituents on those amendments.

The first reading of C-21 was completed in May, and the second was in June. It is currently being discussed at the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security, before returning to the House of Commons for potential third reading.

“I will tell you, [Prime Minister] Justin Trudeau made a major, major error – a major miscalculation – in thinking Canadians would fall asleep on this,” he said. “I am very proud of Canada for stepping up.”

Open and honest dialogue needs to continue on C-21, he said. “That’s the only way forward.”

Lewis said he stands on the side of lawful firearm owners. He wants to hear from them to bring their concerns to the House of Commons.

Information from CUPE 2974 notes this comes “after years of relentless advocacy by CUPE 2974 calling on the County to improve the quality of service the local community has been receiving.”

“We are imploring Essex County to address the sharp decline in the quality of our paramedic service that is putting patients in our community at risk,” James Jovanovic, CUPE 2974 President and an active paramedic, stated. “Paramedics are caring and compassionate people – it’s the reason why we enter the profession. It’s heartbreaking to arrive late to a scene when a person is in critical need of a

paramedic’s help. And it’s equally heartbreaking to see so many paramedics burning out, due to the added stress placed on them by systemic deficiencies.”

Information from CUPE 2947 adds the union is “calling on the employer to invest more in retention and recruitment to resolve staffing challenges, which is one of the primary factors contributing to reduced ambulance availability,” it claimed, adding. “Despite past recruitment initiatives, Essex Windsor EMS is losing paramedics at about the same rate as the onboarding of new staff. The rate of burnout is another concern as nearly 40 paramedics are currently absent due to workplace injuries.”

St. Jacob’s Market

May 13 ........................................................................................ $129

Drayton Theatre

June 6 – Buddy Holly Story ......................................................... $195

Grand Bend Huron Country Playhouse

July 20 – The Crooner .................................................................. $167

July 27 – Kinky Boots .................................................................. $167

New York City Apr. 26-30 ........................................... $1225 Dbl

Ottawa Tulip Festival May 20-23 ......................................Call Newfoundland July 12-29 ........................................ $6779 Dbl

Atlantic Canada Aug. 4-16 ....................................... $3099 Dbl Gaspe Peninsula Sept. 6-14 .................................... $2499 Dbl

Dbl

Pet Of The Week: Guppie

Guppie’s photo doesn’t really show her true purrsonality. She’s not an angry or snobby cat. Right now, she’s a confused cat because she’s not quite sure why she’s here. Guppie likes chin and cheek scratches! She’s very quiet and gentle, so that’s the type of home where she will do best. She has never lived with children or dogs and should not start now, so she will need a home without them. Is there any chance I’ve just defined your home?

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

Town of Essex Receives EDCO Award of Excellence

submitted to EFP

The Town of Essex who selected as the recipient of the 2022 Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) Award of Excellence for the Building Initiatives Rural – Population under 100,000 category.

The EDCO Awards of Excellence is an annual program coordinated through the EDCO Awards Committee and aims to seek distinctive ideas and initiatives that can become economic development best practices of the future.

The award was presented to the Town of Essex in recognition of the Harrow Streetscape Project as an outstanding example of a brick and mortar government-led economic development initiative. The project represents a multimillion dollar investment of infrastructure improvements and beautification in the urban core of Harrow to enhance the local business landscape and promote economic growth. Many new features were

Essex Council passes 3.91% tax increase in principle...

Continued from Page 3

implemented, including AODA-compliant sidewalks and crosswalks, bicycle racks to encourage active transportation, benches, landscape treatments, new street lighting, and much more.

“As a Council, we recognize the importance of investing in our urban cores to support the small businesses in our community,” Sherry Bondy, Mayor, said. “We are thrilled to receive the Award of Excellence for the Harrow Streetscape Project from the Economic Developers Council of Ontario. This is a major accomplishment for the Town of Essex, and one that we are truly proud of.”

The award presentation took place on February 9, 2023 at the EDCO President’s Dinner and Awards Ceremony in Toronto, Ontario.

Story Book Early Learning Centre

Recreation Centre (a shared project with the GECDSB) came in $51,270 higher.

All together, this brought the originally proposed $150,000 in the 2023 Budget listed under taxation to $80,000, reducing the tax increase to under four percent.

Council also granted authorization to complete, in fiscal year 2023, any previously approved projects that remain outstanding as of December 31, 2022 and do not appear in the 2023 Budget as presented, so long as the project costs do not exceed previously approved funding amounts or allocations

Mayor Sherry Bondy believes no one around the decision-making table wanted to charge any more in taxes than needed.

“We understand times

are tough out there for residents,” she said, noting the cost of groceries and fuel has increased. “What we are trying to do here is provide a level of service for our residents that they come to expect – and hit our strategic priorities and fund capital projects – so that we are paying for what we need to and not putting it over on the future.”

Formal adoption of the 2023 Budget will

to Council, likely at the March 20 regular meeting.

The capital forecast will be presented to Council at a future date for consideration, after the Strategic Plan review is completed.

Bondy urged residents to get involved in the Strategic Planning process that will begin in the near-future, which is a Council-led project that will outline priorities over the next four-years.

is so strong we offer a money back guarantee.

Mayor Bailey and Minister Smith discuss potential impacts of battery storage projects - how Lakeshore

submitted to EFP

Lakeshore Mayor, Tracey Bailey, welcomed Ontario’s Minister of Energy, Todd Smith, and Essex Member of Provincial Parliament, Anthony Leardi, to show the potential impacts of proposed battery energy storage projects and energy infrastructure as well as share community concerns about the protection of the municipality’s rural areas.

In order to meet the future demand for electricity, spurred by a growing population and new investments like the Stellantis-LGES facility in Windsor, the Government of Ontario has announced several measures, including the Independent Electricity System Operator’s (IESO) Expedited Request for Proposal process for battery energy storage system projects.

As part of the RFP process, 15 proponents have expressed interest in the Municipality of Lakeshore, recognizing its central location in

Southwestern Ontario, which will see significant economic growth and demand for electricity.

Mayor Bailey and Minister Smith visited several of the proposed locations in northeast Lakeshore, as well as the Hydro One transfer station at Rochester Townline and County Road 46.

“From greenhouses to battery storage facilities, maintaining the integrity of our rural landscape and farmlands has been a key focus of this Council over the first three months of our term,” said Mayor Bailey. “This visit was an opportunity to convey these concerns to Minister Smith and confirm that Lakeshore is at the table when it comes to delivering energy projects which are critical to the future of Lakeshore and our region.”

“Municipalities and Indigenous communities are key partners as our government builds the electricity generation and storage needed to support our success in attracting new jobs to the province

including unprecedented investments, from electric vehicles and battery manufacturing to clean steelmaking,” said Minister Smith.

The provincial government has mandated that proposed projects require Municipal Support Resolutions. Minister Smith reaffirmed this requirement to Mayor Bailey during today’s visit and in a recent letter to the IESO making clear that proponents are expected to engage local councils and seek their approval for the proposed projects.

“Our government has empowered municipal councils to ensure that communities have a say in what is built in their municipalities. This is an important role, critical to meeting Ontario’s growing energy demand and achieving a clearer energy future,” said Minister Smith “I’m pleased to see communities, like Lakeshore, taking that opportunity seriously, to ensure projects will positively impact their residents for years to come.”

“Looking forward, Council will have important decisions to make on how these projects could move ahead in Lakeshore. We are asking tough questions

plans to protect rural

and looking years down the road. I look forward to discussing that bold vision during our upcoming meeting,” Mayor Bailey added.

At the February 14, 2023 meeting, Council considered a report which sets out specific criteria for proposed battery energy storage projects to receive a Municipal Support Resolution in Lakeshore.

Background

• At the January 10, 2023 meeting, Council received a report on 15 proposals for battery energy storage system projects in Lakeshore. The proposed project proponents are currently participating in the Independent Electricity System Operator’s Expedited Request for Proposal process. As part of that process, proponents are seeking Municipal Support Resolutions (MSRs) from the municipalities in which their proposed

projects are located.

• Ontario has been operating with an electricity surplus for over a decade, and supply will continue to meet demand until at least 2025 without new electricity resources. The IESO’s

Annual Planning Outlook, released in 2021, forecasts a need for new electricity resources, beginning in 2025 and 2026, and that the need will continue to grow thereafter.

OPP warns public - Door-To-Door Sales/ Liens/Mortgage Fraud

Complex door-to-door sales scams - Avoid further victimization

submitted to EFP

Ontario’s Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is shining a light on a multi-layered door-todoor sales scam, which leaves victims with poor renovations, liens or a mortgage on their homes.

Despite rules banning door-to-door sales, criminals have not stopped. Those involved in these frauds are persuasive and persistent. They continue to visit the homes of vulnerable individuals and endear themselves, giving the impression they are a friendly helper.

HOW DOES THIS FRAUD UNFOLD?

Fraudsters approach individuals at the door of their home or by phone and

use compelling tactics to persuade the homeowner that a new appliance, contract or service is required; something that was never asked for or needed. These have included: air cleaners, air conditioners, air purifiers, duct cleaning, furnaces, water filters, water heaters, water treatment devices or even bundles of these goods and services.

After the service has been completed or device installed, a few things can happen to make a bad situation even worse.

Whether by phone or in person:

• The victim is contacted by someone claiming to be from a law firm offering assistance to exit previously signed

contracts, remove possible liens and consolidate incurred debts. Victims are told they may be eligible to receive a grant for a significant amount of money IF they agree to exit the contract.

• If a grant was offered, the victim is contacted by a home renovation company and is persuaded to sign a contract and speak with a finance company on the phone. They are led to believe this is required to comply with the grant, BUT it is actually the process to have a mortgage approved on their home.

• The funds are then deposited into the victim’s bank account, leading the victim to believe they have received the grant, but it is actually funds from the home equity mortgage taken out on their home.

• The victim is told not to touch the money, as it must go toward renovations, as well as to the payments they were making for installed equipment.

TIPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF/ YOUR LOVED ONES

• Answer your door only if you are expecting an invited guest

• Do not allow unsolicited visitors into your home

• Hang up on unsolicited phone calls

• Never share personal information or copies of any bills or financial statements

• Do not make a decision on the spot

• Do not sign blank documents

• Take the time to understand what you are signing and ask questions

• Do not answer questions on a phone/

video call if you are being told the answers by someone else (if someone is telling you to answer ‘yes’/ ‘no’)

• Check regularly on family or others who might be vulnerable to persuasive and persistent individuals

• Talk to the bank about a vulnerable loved one to prevent suspicious withdrawals

• Understand no renovations are free

• Visit Canada.ca to review green grant opportunities

• Ask yourself: why has this person offered to help and how do they know your situation

• Consider checking your credit history online at TransUnion and Equifax

• Look up your property on the Land Registry Ontario website

• Install video cameras around your home or video capturing doorbells

RED FLAGS

• The person visiting you says you have won a class-action lawsuit regarding the installation of your equipment and the money can only be used towards renovations to your home

• You are told your home is now a ‘green home’ after the installation of some equipment and therefore you qualify for a grant. A condition of the grant is that you can only use the money to do renovations or add more equipment

• A financial company approaches you, unsolicited, indicating they can help you get out of payments or to consolidate your debt

• If you are told renovations are free

• If you do not have input on the renovations a company does or what materials they use

• If you are pressured to have renovations started right away

• Renovations in these frauds have included:

flooring, painting, smart thermostats, vanities, sinks, toilets, showers, kitchens cabinets and insulation.

They are often poor quality and are left unfinished

If you believe you have become a victim of fraud, contact your local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 (toll-free) or report online on the Fraud Reporting System (FRS). You can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 (TIPS) or report the incident online at www. ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

Mayor Bondy spreads Valentine’s cheer to residents at Iler Lodge

by Garrett Fodor

As cupid’s arrows began to fly, Mayor of Essex, Sherry Bondy –with help of members of Council, local partners, and the community, ensured residents at Iler Lodge received a special valentine this year.

On Saturday, Mayor Bondy, along with Councillor Katie McGuire-Blais, were on hand at Iler Lodge to present each resident in the retirement and long-term care sections with unique handmade Valentine’s Day gifts. Each resident received a custom flower arrangement that was displayed in a wine bottle donated by the community. The gift was coupled with a custom coloured and handwritten message by children in the community.

Around 150 of these special gifts were prepared and delivered for this project.

The project, Bondy noted, came together over the past few weeks. Utilizing public spaces, such as libraries across the town, individuals were invited to drop-off or colour labels that were used for the bottles, as well as drop off empty wine bottles that were used as vases.

Previously, Bondy said she dropped off cards and pictures for residents before, and has given flowers to residents at the Harrowood Retirement Home before. This year, she and those involved on this project, wanted to bring the special Valentine’s Day project into Essex Centre for the

Continued on Page 10

“The Colours of Essex County” highlights significance of historic African-Canadian cemeteries

by Sylene Argent

For over fifty-years, Harrow resident, Elise Harding-Davis, has been working to preserve and obtain heritage status for local African-Canadian cemeteries. She has taken the knowledge of what she has been able to learn

through that work and has compiled that information in a book she titled, “The Colours of Essex County: Historic African Canadian Cemeteries.”

She shared some of that information through a presentation with the Amherstburg Freedom

Museum before the start of Black History Month.

“Graveyards are very informative places. I have always loved to go through graveyards and read the gravestones,” HardingDavis said. “You can get so much information.”

Mayor Bondy spreads Valentine’s cheer to residents at Iler Lodge...

residents at Iler Lodge.

“It’s truly a community effort from everyone involved, and it is so nice because this makes the day of so many people. We had Harrow Daycare and the local Girl Guides and other organizations come out and help colour and make them, and it is truly nice to see the end product and the enjoyment they bring.”

Bondy is extremely happy to see community members back to enjoying their public spaces once again, such as the local libraries. She is grateful for the support of the community in helping to organize and create this project, and is

Continued from Page 9

thankful to the Optimist Club of Essex for donating the nearly 300 flowers for the vases.

Looking ahead, Bondy would like to continue to drop-off cards and art for the residents at Iler Lodge again, likely around Easter She will look at planning an event in Harrow and McGregor closer to the date to arrange any gift ideas. Essex residents can always drop-off art or cards at local libraries anytime, which will be collected and distributed for special projects like this year ’s Valentine’s Day gifts.

The title for the book was something that came to her because, “There are so many cultures represented in Essex County, but my colour stands out to me; just like leaves in the fall, all the different hues that are represented.”

African-Canadians have been in Essex County every bit as long as most of the other colonial cultures, Harding-Davis explained.

A black settlement began as early as 1792 in what is now Colchester. Hopetown was a community on the 3rd Concession, near Drummond Road, just outside of Harrow Other black settlements were located along the great lakes as that “was the highway of the day,” Harding-Davis said.

Locally, those settlements were located in Anderdon, Mersea, Gosfield, Colchester, Maidstone, Rochester, Harrow, and New Canaan.

Through her work in preserving this history, Harding-Davis said it has been her mission to establish that AfricanCanadians are the fourth founding pioneering culture in Canada, she

said.

In Essex County, there are 13 black cemeteries cited.

Central Grove Church Cemetery is located on Walker Road in Harrow.

Continued on Page 11

Photo submitted. Leading into Black History Month, Elise Harding-Davis - an African-Canadian Heritage Consultant and Harrow resident - spoke of her book “The Colours of Essex County: Historic African Canadian Cemeteries” during a presentation with the Amherstburg Freedom Museum.

“The Colours of Essex County” highlights significance of historic African-Canadian cemeteries...

As a church, it was established in 1911. The cemetery has been there, however, since the 1860s. A portion of property was donated from a Mr. McCurdy for AfricanCanadians to be buried at Central Grove.

Gilgal Cemetery is located on Walker Road. It is also referred to as the Taylor Cemetery, as the only marker left is dedicated to a Mr. Taylor.

The Harrow British Methodist Episcopal Church is located on Walnut Street in Harrow. This was a cemetery that really reached into Harding-Davis’s heart and made her decide to do something about it. The cemetery was derelict, with weeds as high as five-feet. Broken markers were piled around a tree. It was used for overflow parking for the annual Harrow Fair. She was part of a group that petitioned the Town to make it a heritage site. Many individuals and groups worked to restore and beautify the site.

“It is one of the most beautiful cemetery sites in the entire area,” she said. “I am very, very proud of the fact the Town now takes care of this site.”

Mount Pleasant Cemetery, located at the rear of Nazrey African Methodist Episcopal Church National Historic Site Memorial Cemetery in Amherstburg. She spoke of how three broken gravestones were brought to The Amherstburg Freedom Museum in the past, and when the Nazery AME became a national historic site, a memorial was erected at the back of the church to honour these individuals. Mount Pleasant was originally located on the 6th Concession in Malden Township.

New Canaan Cemetery is located on County Road 12. This is where Delos Rogest Davis is buried. He was the first black man to become a lawyer locally in 1882. He was a teacher and fireman. He helped to map out large parts of the Town of Essex. He had a business in

Amherstburg. A desk that belonged to him, and his son, Fred, is located at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. Puce Memorial Cemetery is located on County Road 42. It was designated to the British Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1932, the road – then old #2 Highway– was widened, and 30-feet from the front of the cemetery was demolished, Harding-Davis said. In 2011, a friend, Glen Cook, called her to say he found a marker. He relayed the gravestone was for Elizabeth Lee, wife of Ludwell Lee, and their son, James.

The marker had been broken and went under reconstruction.

“My grandfather took me to this cemetery numerous times looking for this marker,” she said, explaining Ludwell Lee was her four-times great-grandfather. “He was born a slave in Virginia. His mother, Kissy, was the daughter of Light Horse Harry Lee, by a black slave

Continued from Page 10

woman, whose name we’ve never found out.” This makes Kissy the half-sister of General Robert E. Lee, leader of the Confederate Army during the Civil War.

“Many blacks, whose families have been here in Essex County and beyond, have been here since the late 1700s. And we were the descendants of slaves, who were owned by prominent white pioneers of the United States.”

She spoke how Canada was colonized by the French first, with the help of a free black man named Mathieu da Costa. He was a navigator, who helped to bring Samuel de Champlain to Canada. He was also an interpreter, who interpreted between the Mi’kmaq First

Continued on Page 13

FARMING

WANTED

Farm Land to Rent

Cash or Share Crop

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

SERVICES

KENNETH YARDWORKS - Fall Clean-

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

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE

PERSONAL

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

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

HOUSE CLEANING - Mature & dependable lady. AM or PM. Call: 519776-1109. 5-2t*

LARGE AUCTION SALE

ST. SIMON & ST. JUDE PARISH HALL

267 MEUNIER STREET

BELLE RIVER

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 25TH

9 O’CLOCK, PREVIEW 8 O’CLOCK GO TO THIS WEBSITE FOR PICTURES AND MORE INFORMATION

www.murrayknappauctions.com

NO BUYER’S PREMIUM!!!!

Moorcroft, bow front curved glass cabinets, lg quantity of fishing lures & tackle, fishing rods & nets, wooden oars, large quantity of rock & roll records, bow & arrows, Pride scooter like new, waders, large amount of tools, pine corner cupboard, wooden decoys, large quantity of coins and stamps, old clocks, costume jewelry, cap and ball double barrel shotguns, dishes & collectibles.

And much much more!

TERMS: CASH, OR CHEQUE WITH PROPER I.D. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS DAY OF SALE MURRAY KNAPP AUCTIONEER

519-727-8894

FOR SALE - Restaurant Deep Fryer$400, Wood Stove - $200, Snow Blower - $150. Call: 519-839-5438. 7-1t*

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED: Tilray Inc. is looking for Greenhouse Production Associates to join their team. Duties include daily crop maintenance, harvesting, crop rotation, inventory counts, and cleaning of greenhouse. No public transportation available. Located in Leamington, ON. Compensation starts at $15.50/hour. Full time hours - Monday through Friday with occasional Saturdays. Please apply at careers@tilray.com or mail resume to P.O. Box 20009 269 Erie St. S. Leamington, ON N8H 3C4.

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

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

Marty Unholzer Auctions-Online Farm Auction

Tim Shanahan, Pine Grove Farms 1003 South Middle Rd, South Woodslee

Auction Begins to Close: Thursday February 23 at 6:00 PM NO Reserves, Farms are rented

Tractors: New Holland T4030 Tractor 70 HP, Cockshutt 1655, Agco LT 75, 6710 Agco White, John Deere 6210

Farm Equipment: 338 JD square baler, Hardi Navigator 550 Sprayer, JD 3PH, 709 7’ chopper/shredder Massey Ferguson 620 disc, 20’ folding Chain harrows, 18’ Market seed auger, 15’ Sunflower no till drill, Overum Triple K 5 furrow plow, Bush Hog 1600 14’ shredder, Agco white 6600 soybean/corn planter, 2-Turnco 225 bu gravity wagons, Older Turnco 225 bu Gravity Wagon, 8’ heavy duty scraper blade Triple K s-tine cultivator, 26’ crow foot packer, 1200 gal water tank on chassis w/2” Honda water pump, 2 furrow plow, Trimble EZ guide 250 lightbar guidance, Quick hitch, farm king 856 pto auger, tractor weights.

Misc Horse Drawn equip: horse drawn bob sled, horse drawn bob sled & sleigh skids, misc horse collar, hames. Misc items: 48 “ lawn roller, skid of misc jacks, 3 skids of misc double trees, misc tires and rims, hand sythes. For catalogue, full details and bidding: go to martyunholzerauctions.hibid.com 10% buyer premium capped at $1000.00 per item /lot. Pickup Saturday, February 25 from 9AM-6PM.

MACHINERY FOR SALE - Woods Ditch Chopper. John Deere Tractor - 8320R, with 800hrs. Excellent condition. Call: 519-995-4450. 01-7t*

WANTED

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

WANTED - Dog Kennel, 6ft height, 10x10. Anywhere you live. Call Jim at: 519-984-5716. 6-1t*

APARTMENT WANTED

APARTMENT WANTED - Healthy, senior male in need of an apartment. Reasonable rent. Call: 519-839-5438. 7-1t*

REAL ESTATE

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

2 BEDROOM HOUSE FOR SALE - On large lot. Large shed on County Rd. 31. South County Rd. 8, 2744. Call: 519-982-4826 or 519-995-4450. 1-7t*

PRAYER TO the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, You who makes me see everything and who shows me the way to reach my ideals. You who gives me the Divine Gift to forgive & forget all that is done to me, and you who are in all the instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything, and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you, no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. A person may pray this prayer three consecutive days without asking for their wish. It will be granted no matter how difficult it may be, and promise to publish this dialogue, as soon as your favor has been granted.

D.B,

“The Colours of Essex County” highlights significance of historic African-Canadian cemeteries...

Continued from Page 11

Nations people and the French.

Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery is located outside of Kingsville on Division Road North. It is located inside Kingsville Memorial Gardens. She, and a few other individuals, explored the area and only found a base of a gravestone and some items dating back to the 1800s.

A black granite stone is there that includes family names and where their properties were located.

St. Mark’s Cemetery is located on Dunn Road in Essex. It dates back to the 1840s.

“The Dunn Road – we could call it our First Lady – in Colchester, because all of the different cultures came along the Detroit River and came up in Colchester…just adjacent to that is the Dunn Road. It leads you on into Canada,” she said.

The Puce River Black Community Cemetery is located on County Road 42. It has an Ontario Heritage Trust plaque, through the efforts of Cook and members and the Lakeshore Black Heritage Community, she explained.

Cook found out the property was deeded in 1872 from the Refugee Home Society to the British Methodist Episcopal Church conference. A church was built there that served the area until the 1920s.

Here, there is a monument to Lewis

Jackson, the half-brother of Henry Bibb, who was a founder of the Refugee Home Society.

The monument’s epitaph states “Born a slave in Kentucky.” It is the only remaining marker at the Puce River Black Community Cemetery. It has been re-erected. It had been stolen. After pleas to have it returned, it was brought back and dumped into the ditch out front, where it was found.

“It is one of the few markers I know in all of Canada that has on it ‘born a slave.’ It is a very significant marker,” HardingDavis said.

The Walls Family Cemetery is located at the John Freeman Walls Historic Site, located on Puce Road. The Walls family history is renowned via a book titled “The Road that Led to Somewhere” written by Dr. Brian Walls, she said.

In 1857 John Freeman Walls – a fugitive slave from North Carolina –built a log cabin on land purchased from the Refugee Home Society. The cabin served as a terminus for the Underground Railroad and was the first meeting place for the Puce Baptist Church.

Hopetown Cemetery is located around the former settlement, near the 3rd Concession and Drummond Road in Colchester.

Smith Cemetery is located on Banwell Road in Tecumseh. It is an Ontario

Get Closer to Your Goals for Next Year with a Libro GIC

Libro Credit Union is a financial institution that puts people before profits. We focus on what’s important - your hopes and dreams, our communities, and the world around us.

Libro Coaches are caring investment experts who work with you every step of the way, so you always feel confident with your plan and decisions.

Is your investment plan on track?

Talk to a Libro Investment Coach about how low-risk term deposits and guaranteed investment certificates (GICs) fit into your investment plan.

Scan the QR to book an appointment to get this offer or visit libro.ca/GIC to learn more.

Heritage Trust site. It was later known as the Banwell Road Black Settlement Cemetery.

A church site cemetery plot, HardingDavis said, was generally able to hold 500 plots. This would mean there could be around 6500 potential burials.

The number of black individuals in Essex County in 1812 was 4000, Harding-Davis explained.

“So, a lot of our ancestors are buried here,” she said.

Harding-Davis spoke of the work she

was dedicated to when she worked at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, and the work that is still ongoing that preserves an important piece of local history.

“I tell people, without Black History, history is incomplete. Without knowing about the black culture and our contributions, a person’s education is not complete,” Harding-Davis said.

The book is available at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. $5 of the sale of the book will be forwarded to the Museum.

Town of Essex Interim Installment of Property Taxes

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

The first installment is due on February 28, 2023, and the second installment is due on April 28, 2023.

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

If you do not receive a tax notice by February 17, 2023, please contact 519-776-7336 extension 3050.

Convenient Payment Options

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

Drainage, Water/Wastewater Arrears, Interest and Penalties

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

Tax Registration

The Municipal Act, 2001 allows a municipality to begin the tax sale process on a property on January 1, if there is a balance in the second year following the year that property taxes are due. The Town of Essex adheres to this timeline for tax sale.

For more information on the tax sale process and general tax information, please visit www.essex.ca/taxes.

Libro Coach Jennifer

FromThe Heart

Happy Wedding Anniversary 65 th

February 15, 2023 Raymond and BeveRly (Pawluck) myeRs

of Woodslee will celebrate their 65th Wedding Anniversary on February 15, 2023. They have 6 children, 13 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren. They are thankful to God for their wonderful life and all the precious gifts He has given them.

IN LOVING MEMORY

In Loving Memory

Celeste and Leslie Jackson

February 16, 2002

The Broken Chain

We little knew that day, God was going to call your names. In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you both. You did not go alone. For part of us went with you. The day God called you home. You left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide. And though we cannot see you, you are always at our side. Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same. But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.

- Love; Justin and Tim

Shepley, Russell

Forever missing you, until we meet again we will hold you safe within our hearts.

OBITUARIES

BONDY, Ron Edward - Passed away peacefully at the Erie Shores Healthcare on February 5, 2023, at 87 years of age. Beloved husband of 62 years to Marilyn (nee Hill).

Loving father of Ronald Bondy (Cathy), Beth Van den Berg (Rob), Victoria Kennedy (Mike), Alan Bondy (Dianne), and Stephen Bondy (Karee Justice). Treasured Grandfather of Joshua (Crystal), Charles (Michelle), Patrick Bondy (Fey), Terry; Stephanie (Zach), Helene Van den Berg; Michael (Angelica), and Chanel Kennedy; Nathan and Dylan Bondy; Miles Justice (Kiana) and Ella Bondy. Great-grandpa of Sophia, Alexander, Conrad, Javier and Aniah. Brother of the late Carl Bondy, late Wilfred Bondy (Mary), late Analie Peck (late Jim), late William Bondy (late Anne), late Joseph Bondy (Rose), late Theresa Horan (Mike), and Larry Bondy (Pat). Ron was an active member of the Holy Name of Jesus Church. He was an usher since 1970 and a member of the Knights of Columbus - 3305. Ron’s other passion was bowling. He retired from Central Transport in Michigan. The visitation was held at the Kennedy Funeral Home Ltd. (519-776-7378) 128 Talbot St. N, Essex. The funeral mass was celebrated from the Holy Name of Jesus Parish in Essex. Interment followed at Heavenly Rest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Windsor & Essex County. You may send your condolences online at www.kennedyfh.com

OBITUARIES

TAYLOR , “Billie” (nee Shwed) - It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our dear Mom and Nany on February 7, 2023 at the age of 95 years. Beloved wife of the late Robert Glen (2004) of Northridge. Mother of Cherylyn

Kiebert and her late husband Peter (2022), Cindy Taylor, Pete Fast, and the late Dennis Taylor (1978). Loving Nany of Josylyn (Kyle), Eric (Ashley), Mindy (Marty), Amanda (Matt), Micayla (Mitchel), Cheyenne, as well as 7 greatgrandchildren. Daughter of the late John & Anna Shwed and predeceased by her siblings, Johnny Shwed, Vera Menhart, and George Shwed. Billie was born in Detroit, Michigan where she grew up and worked as a secretary until she met Glen and built a home in Northridge, where they started a family. She worked across the street at the Centennial Motel Truck Stop as a cook and waitress. She loved her church family teaching Sunday School at Northridge United and helping out at the American Thanksgiving dinner at Cottam United Church. She will be remembered for volunteering for Coats for Kids and selling daffodils for the Cancer Society. Donations may be made to either of these charities in lieu of flowers. Visiting will take place at Reid Funeral Home, 87 Maidstone Ave. E., Essex on February 17, 2023 from 2 pm until time of Funeral Service at 4 pm. Rev. Kim Gilliland officiating. Family and friends are invited to share their memories and condolences online at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

OBITUARIES

Kyle

Love you forever, Lisa, Kandis,

OBITUARIES

THOMAS, Mark - With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Mark on February 1, 2023, at 54 years of age. Dear son of Shirley and John “Jack” Thomas. Loving brother of Paul Thomas (Karen), Ann Marie Siefker (Chris) and Kelly Koren. Uncle of Alyson, Alicia, Rachel, Alexis, Brooke, Austin, Paige, and Dawson. Also survived by many aunts and uncles. Mark was a Mold Maker for many years, but currently at Sequel Tool and Mold Inc. in Oldcastle. He loved fishing, golfing,, and hunting. He was also a member of Bethel-Maidstone United Church. Mark will remain in our hearts forever. The visitation was held at the Kennedy Funeral Home Ltd. (519776-7378) 128 Talbot St. North, Essex. The funeral was held at the BethelMaidstone United Church (933 Talbot Rd, Maidstone). Cremation followed. Donations in Mark’s memory may be made to the Bethel Maidstone United Church. You may send your condolences online at www.kennedyfh.com

POUGET, Jackie (nee Tomkins) - Passed away peacefully with her family by her side on February 6, 2023, at 81 years of age. Dear wife of 59 years to Clarence. Loving mother of Charles Pouget (Kim), Daniel Pouget (Jill), Tim Pouget (Garry), Larry Pouget, and Michelle Ryckman (Dan). Treasured Grandma of C.J., Cecilia, Jessica, Steven, Amaya, Jasper, and the late Johnathan. Sister of Art, Diane, Bill, Fred, and Jimmy. Predeceased by Georgina, Joanne, Sylvia, and Barry. Sister-in-law of Richard, Pauline, Violet, and the late Betty. Jackie will be sadly missed by her dear family friend, Father Mike Parent. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Jackie devoted her life to the Catholic Church. She served at Holy Name of Jesus and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel as a Pastoral Minister among many other duties. Jackie also drove a school bus and managed the canteen at Green Giant. Clarence and Jackie owned and operated Apple Valley Orchards in Essex. Jackie’s visitation was held at the Kennedy Funeral Home Ltd. (519-776-7378) 128 Talbot St. N, Essex. The funeral mass was celebrated at the Holy Name of Jesus Church in Essex. Interment followed at Heavenly Rest Cemetery. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or to the Windsor Cancer Foundation. You may send your condolences online at www.kennedyfh.com

Voice Of Inspiration

“Remember, remember always, that all of us, and you and I especially, are descended from immigrants and revolutionists.”

~ Franklin D. Roosevelt

OBITUARIES

SHEPLEY, Marlene (nee McLean)

- It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marlene Shepley, a loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother ,and GG on February 10th at 87 years old. Beloved wife of Asa Shepley for 67 years. Loving mother of Brad & Lynne Shepley, Susan Bernard, Stuart & Jennifer Shepley, and Diane & Andy Lamain. Loving Grandmother to Matthew Shepley, Amy Shepley Tandiko (Yusuph), Paul Bernard (Laura), Beau Bernard (Carly), Chase Shepley (Twinkle), Daniel Shepley, Adam Shepley, Tyler Shepley, Mitchell Marchand (Catou), Nicole Jackson (Roman), Shane Woltz (Kendra), Spencer Woltz (Jordan), Faith Woltz. Loving GG to Elaina, Zion, Taya, Malachi, Landon, Levi, Evan, Ben, Sophie, Logan, Isabel, Athena, Veritie, and Vercin. Special aunt to Laura and Jeff King. Predeceased by her parents, Percy and Mary McLean, and siblings, Delores Koopman and Sharon Lajoie. Aunt to many nieces and nephews. Special thanks to the entire staff of the 6th floor West of the WRH Ouellette campus, Dr. Elalem and Dr. Jervis for their kindness and compassion during Marlene’s hospital stay. Thanks also to the staff of the Windsor Essex County Hospice. All are welcome for visitation on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at Reid Funeral Home, 87 Maidstone Ave. E., Essex from 5-8 pm. Visiting will continue at the funeral home on Thursday, February 16, 2023 from 12 pm until time of Funeral Service to celebrate Marlene’s life at 1pm. Interment Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. Pastor Steve Forsey officiating. If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations made to Hospice of Windsor Essex County of the charity of choice would be appreciated. Family and friends are invited to share their memories online at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Salvation Army Essex Church

submitted by Carolyn Barnett

“From Death to Life” is Major Jim Hann’s sermon topic on Sunday, Feb. 19th. We welcome you to worship with us at 10:30a.m. We have an elevator for those who need it.

“Where Animals Go For The Winter” is our program at SA Connections on Tuesday, Feb. 21, from 10-1p.m. This free community program. It’s a great way to meet new friends, enjoy fellowship, learn something new , and enjoy a lunch! From 1-2 p.m. Major Hann leads Bible Study.

The Essex and District Ministerial Association is holding the first Lenten service at Essex United Church on Wednesday, Feb. 22 at noon. Rev. Chris Brouillard -Coyle is conducting the service, which is followed by a lunch.

Donations of pasta and sauce would be appreciated by our Food Bank, which is located in our church basement across from the Essex Municipal building. Drop off times are Tues., Wed., and Fri. from 9 - 2. For more info, call the church office at 519-776-4628.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church

submitted by Sandra Lypps

Join us for Sunday service each week at 11am. Our next pasta dinner will take place on Friday, March 3rd. On Friday, March 10th at 7pm join us at St Paul’s for a Piano Concert for International Women’s Day with Sydney Brouillard Coyle.

For information about what is happening at St Paul’s, visit our website: www.stpaulstrinity.org) or social media. Messages are checked regularly at the church office, at 519-776-7711.

Paquette News

Just a reminder that the service times have changed. Redeemer is now at 8:30a.m., Trinity at 9:45a.m., and St. Stephen’s at 11:15a.m.

Bring your appetite to Church of the Redeemer this

Sunday from 10a.m. to 1p.m. for Soup for the Soul Sunday. There will be numerous types of soup, cornbread, rolls, and lots of desserts, all for a donation.

Trinity Anglican Church

Thank you to all who have donated items for our purses of love. We will assemble them after service on Sunday and bring them to Street Help during the week.

Take-out Shrove Tuesday Pancake supper on Feb. 21 from 4-6 pm. Pre-order with message and include your requested pick up time at 519-839-5303.

Ash Wednesday service is at 7pm on February 22. Sunday services with Rev’d Hilton Gomes are at 9:45am. All are welcome to join us.

Essex Christian Reformed Church submitted by Beverley Van Huizen

You are invite you to join us each Sunday at 10am in person or online, at www.essexcrc.ca. Or you may join us online each Sunday morning beginning at 10am. Nursery supervision provided.

Come be part of the community, our Take-a-book Leave-a-book library is now in front of Essex CRC church. GEMS and Cadets meet on Monday evenings from 6:30 - 8:00pm. This is a great club for girls and boys from Grade 1-8 where we participate in bible studies, crafts and games. All are welcome to attend.

Essex United Church

This Sunday, February 19th, we again welcome Brian Stocks to lead our 10:30 worship service. The message is available on our website essexunitedchurch.ca.

Our Wednesday Lenten services begin on February 22nd and, again, will be held at noon. All are welcome. Please check out our website, essexunitedchurch.ca.

The Essex Food Bank is open Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Bethel-Maidstone United

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

Our Annual Meeting is on Sun., Feb. 19. A soup & sandwich lunch will be served.

During the month of February we will collect items for the Women’s Welcome Centre in Windsor. This organization helps homeless women and their children to find housing as well as providing other social services. They also provide emergency housing in their facility. There is a list of suggested items on the bulletin board.

Choir practice will begin Sunday, March 5 at 9am to practice for an anthem for

Easter. All are welcome.

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

Continued on Page 17

What’s Going On...

FEB. 18 - #2 CONSTRUCTION BATTALION PRESENTATION - At the Kingsville Military Museum at 10am, 145 Division St S. Seating is limited. Call 519-733-2803 for info.

FEB. 22 - HERITAGE WEEK TALK & BOOK SIGNING - Essex Railway Station at 6pm. With Laurie Brett on her book, The Rising Village. Reserve your seat: heritage@essex.ca

FEB. 25 & 26 - ESSEX TRAIN SHOW - at Essex Public School, 72 Brien Ave, E. 9:30am3:30pm - For more info, call: 519-776-9800 or email: heritageessex@gmail.com.

MAR 4 & 5, 11 & 12, 18 & 19 - MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL - John R. Park Homestead & Holiday Beach. For all information: www.essexregionconservation.ca/maple

MAR 8 - ESSEX COUNTY FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB MEETING - at 7:30pm at Ojibway, 5200 Matchette Rd. All are welcome. Free to the public.

MAR 15 - KINGSVILLE BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - Grovedale Arts & Culture Centre - 103 Park St., Kingsville. Visit online at: blood.ca or call: 1-888-236-6283.

MAR. 28 - BELLE RIVER BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - At St Simon & St Jude Parish Hall, 267 Meunier Street. To book an appointment, visit: blood.ca or call: 1-888-236-6283.

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

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.

TAX PREPARATION

Over35years experience.

Continued from Page 15

Central Essex County Catholic Family of Parishes

Essex, Maidstone, McGregor, and Woodslee

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 22nd.

First Communion prep sessions for children registered starts on February 20th at 6:30 pm at Holy Name of Jesus parish hall.

Essex K of C Euchre night is on February 20 at 7pm at Holy Name of Jesus church.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinners are at St. John’s Hall in Woodslee and St. Mary’s Hall in Maidstone from 57pm with free will offering.

Essex K of C Fish Fry is on Friday, February 24th.

St. Mary’s Lenten Euchre parties start on Sunday, February 26th at 7pm.

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

Woodslee United Church

Join us for Sunday Service and Sunday School at 10:45am. Rev. Carl will lead the Service. Video of the Service and bulletins on our website: woodsleepastoralcharge.ca

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

Essex Retirees’ Club Report

This week at the Essex Retirees’ our winners for Pepper were: Evelyn Vivier, Cathy Dewhurst, Shirley Doey, and Sue Labombare. Low score was Marcel Mailloux, Shirley Doey, and Charlie Chevalier. The most peppers were Evelyn Vivier, Gary West, and Katie Starzacher.

We have lots of activities going on at the centre, so come check us out.

Bigg Wiggle, Blues Brothers tribute perform at 14th annual Legends Night 73’s fundraiser

The 250 in attendance enjoyed a catered dinner from Just Jeff’s Gourmet Express, before zeroing in on the music entertainment; some eagerly heading to the dance floor to shake off some winter blues to some fun tunes.

“They are having a great time,” Garon said, looking out into the crowd of enthusiastic attendees.

by Sylene Argent

All eyes were focused on the main stage entertainment on Saturday evening as local bands –including a Blues Brothers tribute, featuring Bob Quick and Tim Heil, and Bigg Wiggle – performed at the annual Legends Night fundraiser hosted inside Essex District High School’s gymnasium.

This annual event is one of the

largest Fundraisers for the Essex 73’s Junior “C” hockey team, Joe Garon said, who is on the organization’s executive and organized the event through Turnkey Entertainment and Promotions.

The event offered an opportunity for area residents to find something fun and unique to do to celebrate Valentine’s Day a little early.

To provide the entertainment, Garon said he looked locally this year and was happy to bring on Bigg Wiggle and the Blues Brothers tribute for the gig. Every year, he tries to switch up the genres to make it appealing to as many as he can.

He said it is a big financial commitment to get the Essex 73’s onto the ice, and thankfully the local hockey team has a lot of support through fans in the stands during the games and through many sponsorships.

Continued on Page 19

Essex County OPP Officer wins national award

He drove his 1946 Ford to see Elvis

The new “Elvis” movie reminds me of a story from Bob Lindsay: “I was working at the John Inglis washing machine plant in Toronto in 1956 when I bought a 1946 Ford 5-passenger coupe with a 1952 Ford flathead engine from a car lot on Danforth Avenue. It was $400 and I financed it at $28 a month.

“Gas at that time was only 25-27 cents a gallon. I had no way of telling what kind of mileage I was getting because my speedometer didn’t work.

“I owned my ’46 Ford for three years and the most memorable time was when I drove with my friends to see Elvis Presley on April 2, 1957 at Maple Leaf Gardens.”

I was there myself with friends from school. We got there on the subway. I didn’t see Bob or his car, but we sure heard the non-stop screaming as soon as Elvis stepped onto the stage and belted out “Hound Dog” and “Don’t Be Cruel” and “I Want You, I Need You, I Love You!” The girls went wild!

His next stop was Ottawa but the highclass Chateau Laurier Hotel refused to let the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll stay there, fearing his fans would wreck the place!

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

contact@essexfreepress.com issuu.com/essexfreepress

www.essexfreepress.com

Submitted to EFP

On January 22, 2023, The Canadian Safe Boating Council held its annual awards in Toronto and recognized one of Essex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Marine operators.

Each January, stakeholders in recreational boating safety assemble to honour the people, programs, organizations, and marinas that help to make boating in Canada safer and better for all of us, and to keep the environment clean.

The “Marine Professional of the Year” award recognizes an outstanding act of boating safety by a marine organization professional.

The 2022 recipient of the Marine Professional of the year award is Provincial Constable James (JJ) Lyman, a marine officer with Essex County OPP Marine unit. He has worked hard to ensure that local enforcement agencies

learn best practices of safe boating and are prepared on either side of the border for each new marine season.

“We are very proud of Constable Lyman’s accomplishment. He is dedicated to marine safety by providing the highest standard of relevant training to our law enforcement partners across Ontario. This award reflects his commitment to keeping our waterways safe for everyone,” Inspector Angela Ferguson, Essex County OPP Detachment Commander said.

Constable Lyman is a 17-year veteran with the OPP and has been a member of the Essex County OPP marine unit since 2008. Constable Lyman is also an active Shiprider member or formally known as “Integrated Cross Border Maritime Law Enforcement Officer.” He has been an OPP Marine Instructor since 2017, teaching officers from all over Ontario.

Bob Lindsay’s 1946 “Elvis” Ford.

Provincial Constable Lyman with OPP Provincial Marine Coordinator, Sergeant Dave Moffatt

In the second, the 73’s continued to control the puck throughout the frame. Despite the 5-1 lead, they continued to test Malinowski. Eight-minutes into the second, the Kings brokethrough, beating Adrian McBride for the second time on the night. Once again, however, the 73’s responded as Conor Dembinski restored the four-goal lead just

by Garrett Fodor

After dropping points in three of its last four games; the Essex 73’s was looking to bounce back when it played host to the Dresden Jr. Kings.

From puck-drop, it was the 73’s that took control of the game early. Winning puck possession, the home 73’s fired

chances early and often towards the Kings’ goal before Joseph Malinowski saved it.

Midway through the opening frame, the 73’s broke-through, when Austin Guevremont found the back of the net for the third time in his last four games. His goal opened the floodgates for

the 73’s, which scored three more goals in twominutes. The Kings did respond, but closing out the frame, they were quick to take what wind the Kings had in their sails away. Aleks Bratic went on to beat Malinowski to make it a 5-1 lead for the 73’s heading into the first intermission.

three-minutes later. The 73’s entered the final intermission carrying a 6-2 lead.

In the third period, the 73’s continued to own the puck, with McBride being tested marginally. With five-minutes remaining, the 73’s added a goal from Ryan McKim, lifting Essex over Dresden 7-2. Final shots in the game were 58-14, in favour of Essex.

The 73’s now have a pair of games on its schedule this week, including a trip to Mooretown on Saturday. Closing out the season on February 28th, the 73’s will host its first ever alumni night as the club hosts the Lakeshore Canadiens.

14th annual Legends Night 73’s fundraiser...

Continued from Page 17

Next up for the Essex 73’s, the first Frank Matthys Alumni Night will take place on Tuesday, February 28. The event will be hosted before the last regular game of the season, which will be played against rival, Lakeshore, at the Essex Centre Sports Complex.

73’s bounce pack, defeat Jr. Kings 7-2 ESP U13 Hockey Report

The Essex Southpoint U13 Ravens had just one game this past weekend and they easily skated away with a 12-1 victory.

ESP travelled to Riverside to face off with the Rangers and they came out flying, scoring early and often.

Ben Liebrock led the attack notching a hat trick, while Nash Feurth and Derek Dunn each potted a pair. Tyler Thomas, JoJo McLeod, Brayden Foster, Owen Derksen, and Nathan Mariuz rounded out the scoring. Trent Chevalier and Kevin Ondic shared the goaltending duties in the win.

When the 73’s hosted the Honour Wall unveiling last August that recognized 50-years of play in Essex, Garon said there was a great response from the alumni. It reignited interest and brought a lot of the alumni players back to the club which sparked the idea for Alumni Night

Here, Concord Ivory HC-12 is an interesting ceiling colour choice paired with Metropolitan AF-690 on the lower panel insets and Barren Plain 2111-60 on the upper panels.

Flyers recognize one of their own, celebrate 70-years of play with a pair of wins

by Garrett Fodor

This past week, the Leamington Flyers celebrated its 70th anniversary, recognizing one of its own.

Last Thursday, the club hosted its alumni night, welcoming generations of Flyers and their families back. Prior to puck-drop against the Chatham Maroons, in

partnership with the Town of Leamington, the Flyers dedicated the press box at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre to Scott Holland, who has volunteered

Essex Thunder U15 win Silver

with the organization for over 35-years, serving in various roles.

Unlike their game the week prior, the Flyers not only opened the scoring, but with a flurry. Just over 90-seconds in, Kale Couvillon opened the scoring, with Ryan MacPherson also adding two goals in the first sixminutes.

Holding a commanding lead, the Flyers skated into the intermission up 3-0.

submitted to EFP

During the past weekend the Essex Thunder House league teams participated in the annual London Devilettes Hockey Tournament. This tournament had 186 teams participate from all over Ontario. The teams did extremely well in the tournament with 3 of the 5 teams

advancing to the semifinals. But only one team made it to the finals.

The Essex Thunder U15 team fought hard all weekend but lost in the finals in an excellent well matched game 1-0 to London.

Congratulations to U15 on your silver and all the teams on a great weekend!

Coming out, they continued to frustrate the Maroons. Chatham, however, scored on an ensuing penalty kill, to make it 3-1. But for the nearly 1200 fans in attendance, that would be as close as they would come. The Flyers shutdown any further chances of a comeback, prevailing 3-1 and taking two more points in the process.

Closing out the week, the Flyers traveled to Sarnia on Saturday to face the Legionnaires. The teams nearly skated through the opening

20-minutes scoreless, until the Legionnaires scored with 90-seconds to go. It was a quick response from the Flyers’ Adrian Bosev, who scored in the last minute, to remain tied going into the intermission.

From there, the Flyers’ offense took over, simply pummelling the Legionnaires’ goaltender and defense with shots. The Flyers scored four goals in the middle frame before the Legionnaires responded with one of

their own.

In the third period, the teams continued to exchange goals, but the Legionnaires were unable to mount a comeback. The Flyers held on to win 8-4. Final shots were 53-24 in favour of Leamington. Adrian Bosev led the way for Leamington with three goals and an assist.

The Flyers return home on Thursday to host the St Marys Lincolns. Puck drops at 7:10 pm.