Essex Free Press - Janaury 8, 2015

Vol. 135

A LOOK INSIDE Ontario implements stricter smoking ban PAgE 3 ________________ JettÕ s Blood Donor Clinic a success PAgE 3 _______________ ECHRS Celebrates Carnegie PAgE 19 ________________

Thursday, January 8, 2015

Issue No. 1

2014 – A Year in Review

Ravens football program leaves town PAgE 19 ________________ Essex teams shine at Hockey for Hospice annual tournament PAgE 23 ________________ Winter Classic tournament PAgE 24 ________________

Looking For A Good Home

“Suki” See Page 5 for adoption info.

The following are some of the news highlights in our community for 2014.

JANUARY Two key businesses closed in Essex Centre at the start of last year.

• Rizzo’s Crossing, located at the corner of Talbot and Victoria, served up its last meal on January

19. Lui Rizzo and his parents, Rita and Gennaro, founded Rizzo’s Crossing.

Lui ran it with partner Tricia Kloppenburg. The restaurant and banquet facility was used by many businesses and organizations to host meetings and special events. Rizzo’s had around

30 employees, which included students.

• The Grand Central Tavern also closed, as long-time owner, Carolyn Costin, retired.

The Grand, located at 64 Talbot St. N, was an Essex landmark with origins dating back to the 1800’s.

Carolyn and Don Costin took over the business from Don’s father who bought it in 1947.

According to historian and author Sharon Mulcaster, the original hotel was built in 1870 by Gordon Wigle as part of the stagecoach stop at the Taylor Farm near the present site of

Amico’s Motel.

In 1873 it was moved to the present location and renamed the Palmerston Villa. It was renamed the American House in 1887 and the Grand Central Hotel in 1900.

Five generations of the

Continued on Page 2

2 I Community

Essex Free Press

2014 – A Year in Review...

Costin family worked at the Grand.

For many years it was a three-story building and housed apartments in the upper levels. The building was demolished, rebuilt and renamed the Grand Central Tavern following the 1980 explosion.

• Last January, winter wasn’t just coming - it had arrived, bringing snow, snow, and more snow with it.

Road departments were kept busy trying to keep up with the snowfall. The first weekend following the New Year over 12 inches of snow hit our region.

“We’re not getting a chance to catch our breath,” Essex CAO Russ Philips said at the time.

Heavy winds resulted in 15’ drifts on some county roads. Seymour Beach in Colchester was one of those roads. It took crews 12 hours to dig out that road.

• On January 13, the Essex County Library launched a new service through Hoopla Digital, allowing library cardholders to temporarily download digital music and audio books as well as stream video content.

The service offered Essex County Library cardholders access to thousands of movies, TV shows, audio books, and music titles to download or stream. The service is free for cardholders and is available for computer, mobile, and tablet devices.

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• Community service organizations and groups met with council hoping to receive grant money through the Essex Community Partnership Fund.

Nine requests were submitted, including 3rd Essex Scouts, Essex Community Services, Essex Retirees’ Social Club, Essex Youth Centre (EYC), Harrow Early Immigrant Research Society (HEIRS), Harrow Electric Eels Aquatics Team, Kingsville-Essex Associated Band, Kingsville Historical Park, and ACCESS County Community Support Services.

FEBRUARY • As Essex Council began budget deliberations some big-ticket items were discussed.

Any work on the silos in downtown Essex Centre Ð to repair or remove Ð was sidelined.

Repairs on Fairview Avenue were discussed. The project comes with a $1.52 million price tag and some work began on the road later in the year.

Another item on the table was the Essex Memorial Arena. The question of what to do with the old barn was one that would plague council throughout the year. It would have cost $182,904 to demolish the building. Any repairs would be very costly.

Another project that got attention was the dog park, which resulted in a temporary dog park opening at the site of the old Ravens’ clubhouse, next to the arena.

• The Essex Red Raiders Senior Boys’ Basketball team won the WECSSAA Tier 2 senior boys basketball championship, beating the Kingsville Cavaliers, 64-24.

“I was shocked. We came out pretty strong,” said Essex guard Nick Veigli of the win.

Essex coach Dave Harrison was a little bit surprised at the outcome of the championship game as he expected a closer score. Both teams went 9-0 during the regular season.

MARCH • The defending league champions, the Essex 73’s, faced long-time rivals, the Belle River Canadiens, for the Great Lakes Junior ‘C’ Hockey League championship.

Both teams had some hardware to back them up. The 73’s had won 17 league titles, seven of those in the last 10 years, while Belle River claimed 13, but only won twice in the last decade.

The 73’s were the favourties to win. They were enjoying a strong season (34-3-1-2) and had won all five regular season match-ups with the Habs, outscoring them 30-13.

Four games into the best of seven series, and the two teams were knotted

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

up with two wins apiece. Essex took it from there to win the next two, the series and the league championship.

• The 73’s would go on to the OHA Junior ‘C’ Championship in April, but would have to settle for second place as they fell to the Lakefield Chiefs.

At the team’s awards banquet, held in May, captain Corey Beaulieu was named the Player of the Year (MVP) and the MVP of the playoffs.

It was Beaulieu’s last season with the 73’s. He led the local Junior ‘C’ team in scoring for the second straight year, and topped the Great Lakes Junior ‘C’ Hockey League with 66 points, Beaulieu also added 14 points in the post-season.

Beaulieu had four very successful seasons with the club.

“When you sign that card, you become a role model and you are expected to win. Losing is not accepted so you find a way to win,” he said at the banquet. “It’s been an honor to be the captain of the 73’s. Our fingers might be empty but our hearts will be filled with memories.”

Continued on Page 5

Thursday, January 8, 2015

I

News/Community I 3

Essex Free Press

Ontario implements stricter smoking ban

by Jennifer Cranston The Town of Essex is currently developing a partial smoking ban for the municipality and plans to implement it on April 1, but the Province has introduced its own beginning with the New Year. Ò Ours goes a little further in that we have designated smoking areas,Ó said Director of Corporate Services for Essex Donna Hunter.

The province has banned smoking on playgrounds and sports fields and extended that ban to 20-metres around those areas. Ò We just have to make sure our smoking areas are outside those parameters,Ó

said Hunter.

The province has launched its education campaign and Essex is just entering its education phase, both with the hope that people will understand the new laws in time to follow them.

There is quite a bit of confusion and misconceptions surrounding smoking laws, said Christy McBeth, Manager of Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention Department for the Windsor Essex County Health Unit.

The new law also bans smoking on restaurant and tavern patios.

McBeth explained that some people believe that these laws are only in

effect during business hours or while children are present, which is wrong.

Anywhere smoking is banned; it is banned 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Ò There is no part of the legislation that says Ô when in operation,Õ so that means the law is in effect at all times,Ó she said.

What that means, she explained, is that just because food is not being served and patrons are not present, you canÕ t smoke on a restaurant patio before it opens. There is no smoking on school property, playgrounds and sports fields even at 4 a.m. despite the absence of children.

The new law also

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prohibits smoking in and around hotels, motels and inns, as they are no longer considered Ò residential.Ó One of the more controversial aspects to the new law is that it bans the selling of tobacco on college and university campuses.

The fine associated with smoking outdoors in prohibited areas is $250, and the fine for selling tobacco on campus is $300.

For more information or clarification visit the Windsor Essex County Health Unit website at www.WECHU.org, or the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care website at www.health.gov.on.ca.

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Jett’s Blood Donor Clinic a success

by Sylene Argent The Paquette family urged friends, family and the community to head to the Essex Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 201) to participate in the December Blood Donor Clinic through the Canadian Blood Services. There, the family was able to connect with those willing to roll up their sleeves to save the lives of others and share their own personal story as to why donating blood is a precious gift.

Stacey Paquette grew up in Essex and her children attend school here. She is the mother of 15-month old Jett. Jett, and other members of his family, have a blood disorder called Hereditary Spherocytosis, which affects the red blood cells. In JettÕ s case, because of his young age, that means he needs to have a blood transfusion every four weeks. This will continue until he is old enough to undergo treatment.

At the blood donor clinic the Paquette family shared their story, putting a face to the many who benefit from

blood transfusions. Sharing their story was a great way to encourage those who have not given blood before an opportunity to do so, especially at a time when people may be preoccupied with the holiday season.

Being at the blood donor clinic also helped the family say thank you to the many who do donate their blood.

Stacey was hoping her familyÕ s effort would get more donors out on Tuesday, December 16. She understands that many people may shy away from giving blood because they may not like needles, but she hopes hearing JettÕ s story will help those individuals overcome that fear. Ò As soon as people see what he goes through, it puts it into perspective that people can help,Ó Stacey said. She added that she is aware of many children that go to the hospital to get blood transfusions.

Continued on Page 18

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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.

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OUR STAFF Sandy Kennedy / Andrew Beaudoin - Office Jessica Azar - Graphic Design / Social Media Lana Garant - Graphic Design Greg Belchuk - Advertising Sales Manager Sylene Argent - News Reporter Jennifer Cranston - News Reporter Shelley Beaudoin - Graphic/Production Richard Parkinson - Editor

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

Live & Uncensored ••• Comment Richard Parkinson •••

Expectations for 2015 The foundation was laid in 2014 for several projects to be either completed or began in 2015 in Essex Centre. I hope I am not wrong in expecting things to happen on these fronts.

A good part of the old Essex District High School was demolished in 2014 and a good part of the new structure was built to replace it. I expect that the new high school will be fully completed by the end of the year.

The completion of that project should provide a solid game plan regarding Sun Parlor Junior School.

The build disrupted the Essex Area Food Bank and the Essex Ravens.

We lost the Ravens, which was extremely disappointing. I can imagine the outcry if we lost the Essex Area Food Bank as well.

I have only been inside the new high school twice. Nostalgia keeps me thinking that it looks too clinical and boring, just another institution that lacks any sort of character. In my mind, high schools should be large and old, places of history and stories. But that’s just me. This new facility boasts all sorts of features that the old one lacked. I suppose if I had to be there for an extended period of time, it would grow on me.

IÕ ve heard mixed reviews from the students.

The silos continue to sit, gray and crumbling, in the middle of Essex Centre. I expect Council to make a move on them this year, either to tear them down or to move forward

with a mural project in earnest. Their presence, in their current form, is a hindrance to any plans regarding the development of a park area around our new Spitfire memorial.

I remember going to the silos when they were still in operation because one of my friends had a family member that worked there.

They weren’t too exciting to visit. I recognize them today as landmarks (I’d definitely notice them missing if they were gone) and eyesores (things that need to go).

The Essex Memorial Arena also sits unused. Sentiment and memories aside, it no longer serves any useful purpose. Council and the community struggled to determine what is to be done with the old arena.

I expect that now all avenues have been exhausted it will be slated to be demolished. I donÕ t necessarily expect any demolition to occur until 2016. It depends on how the municipal budget shakes out.

I have many memories of the old arena (all of them good). From the age of five I played hockey there. Before that my mom took me to the tot skates where she taught me how to skate. I lifted the trophy and did the victory lap of the rink with my teammates. I went to the Sunday skates. I watched the Essex 73Õ s and other teams that had the Ò older neighbourhood kidsÓ playing on them. I saw teams win titles, championships and accolades. I remember the Ò super fansÓ cheering the Essex Red Raiders hockey team

on to victory. In the summer I went roller-skating there. Later in life, I played shinny hockey with the rest of the “kids at heart.” The old arena had great ice (home ice is almost always the best) and a great atmosphere.

And for all these reasons, I think it is time for it to go. ItÕ s sad to see it sitting there unused. I donÕ t want it to deteriorate over a long period of time.

Plans to improve and beautify the downtown corridor in Essex Centre were discussed and laid in 2014.

Some work has been down on this and I expect the work will continue this year.

IÕ ve walked the main street thousands of times. I can recall the locations of many stores that were there when I was a child and later a youth. Most of them are gone. A few remain. I know there has been improvements and changes made to the downtown corridor over the years, but they were never anything that made me stop and say, wow. IÕ m looking forward to that moment.

Work has started on repairing Fairview Avenue. I expect most of the work will be finished this year.

A CIP was established last year and a few businesses have already made use of it. I expect there will be other businesses that will take advantage of it this year to improve the fronts of their buildings.

Now letÕ s see what the New Year brings.

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The Essex Free Press

Office: 16 Centre St. Essex, Ontario Mail to: P.O. Box 115 Essex, Ontario N8M 2Y1

Phone: 519.776.4268 Fax: 519.776.4014

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Let’s Talk About... by Evelyn Couch - Dreaming of our new park Is everyone looking forward in this New Year to our new park that is to be designed around our Spitfire?

Personally, I am most anxious to know when work will start.

Another question is: have you seen the new mural where the one about the station used to be? This one is more dramatic and shows a little boy thinking about what the railroad meant to his grandparents. It depicts the explosion at the train station. So far the legend has not been printed, or hadnÕ t been when I looked.

The committee felt the original mural had to be replaced because it was peeling. It was painted 24 years ago, I think.

It is part of the area that needs to be built into a park and there is a lot of land included in that area. There is

considerable land to the northeast of the station that has been busy growing weeds for close to 20 years.

To me, it is embarrassing to see people looking at the Spitfire in such a scruffy area. Yes, I know we need better weather to be able to do much and we canÕ t hasten that.

So we should have the plans all made so work can begin as soon as possible.

That empty podium could be repaired anytime. If that isnÕ t going to be done then I think it should be removed, no matter if it was donated as a memorial and had the purpose of explaining those stones along the walkway.

People were looking at it during the time the Spiftire was established there and it was full of dead leaves! What did that say about the town?

Lots of ideas for us to anticipate in 2015.

See our website for more news, photos, and updates that did not make this weekÕ s print edition.

www.sxfreepress.com

Thursday, January 8, 2015

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Community I 5

Essex Free Press

2014 – A Year in Review...

Essex also bid farewell to graduating players Alex Garon, Dylan Solecki and Chad Hedrick as well as assistant coach Steve Caldwell.

• The Essex Ravens, Ontario Varsity Football club announced its MVP of the previous year’s season, Cody McCann.

“Without question, our best football player,” Ravens head coach Glen Mills said of McCann. “He plays the game the way it’s supposed to be played. He’s one of my favorites.”

McCann, a powerful running back who moved on to play with the University of Windsor Lancers, has the ability to both run the ball and provide lead blocking.

Luke Willson and Pawel Kruba were the guest speakers of the night.

Willson is the first Essex Ravens alumni to win the Super Bowl, which he did with the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks. The rookie tight end caught two passes in the win over the Denver Broncos. The Seahawks drafted him in the fifth round out of Rice University.

Willson, from LaSalle, recalled that it was not too long ago that he was an Essex Raven.

“I sat in these chairs six years ago and for the past four years people told me what I couldn’t do,” Willson said that night. He admitted that his road to the NFL was filled with roadblocks.

“If you can conceive it, believe it. Put the work in and the sky is the limit,” he said.

Kruba was the Canadian University football Defensive Player of the Year this 2013-2014 football season. He

Continued from Page 2

capped off his fifth year at Western in London with 38 tackles and an interception from his middle linebacker position. He has signed with the CFL’s Hamilton TigerCats.

McCann was the varsity team MVP. Other MVP’s were Jake Heydon (peewee), Brandon Leach (bantam) and Chris Tannous (junior varsity).

• Two local historians, Evelyn Couch Burns and Laurie Kowtiuk, were recognized and celebrated at the Essex County Civic Centre.

They were honoured for their dedication to the preservation and promotion of local history through the Ontario Heritage Trust’s Ontario Heritage Community Recognition Awards program.

Kowtiuk was awarded with the Heritage Community Recognition Award for her contributions to the Essex and Community Historical Research Society (ECHRS) where she has served as Vice President and President. She is also a member of the Essex Municipal Heritage Committee.

Kowtiuk and Burns also co-authored the third edition of Burn’s local history book, “The Three Rs of Essex: Riches, Rags, Recovery.”

Kowtiuk said that she looks up to Burns.

Burns traveled to Toronto and received the Lieutenant Governor’s Ontario Heritage Award for Life Time Achievement at Queen’s Park. Erin Semande, a Researcher with the Ontario Heritage Trust, said this award is presented to those who have preserved, protected, and promoted heritage for 25 years or more. “[This is] no small achievement. This donation of time provided selflessly is priceless. And the entire Province has benefited from their dedication to heritage,” she said of those who receive lifetime achievement awards.

The love of history was something Burns acquired.

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She had noticed as a reporter for several local newspapers, including the Essex Free Press, that there were a lot of interesting aspects to Essex’s history and there was little being done to record it. Local history, she said, is extremely unusual. She noted that former Town Treasurer Edwin Beaman gave her a lot of the information about Essex’s history, which led her to write the first edition of her book.

Essex Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche presented certificates of recognition to Burns and Kowtiuk on behalf of Essex and Council. “We are very proud of the fact we have residents who honour our history here in Essex Cen-

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Pet Of The Week: Suki Suki came to the shelter his with brother, Taige. They are very bonded and would like to move to their new home together. Their previous owners had to give us up because they were moving. They like to do their own thing most of the time but they do enjoy spending time with humans and giving them lots of love. Suki is a little more outgoing than Taige, but not much. He also enjoys playing with toys. Think they might be your new BFFs? Come meet them today!

This pet also comes with 6 weeks of pre-paid pet health insurance. For more information please visit www.ospcainsurance.ca or call 1-866-6002445. Drop by the Windsor-Essex County Humane Society shelter to visit at 1375 Provincial Rd., Windsor. Ph.: 519-966-5751. The adoption center is open everyday at 11am.

6 I Community

Essex Free Press

2014 – A Year in Review...

Continued from Page 5

tre,Ó he said.

• The Provincial Government forwarded a $3M grant to Thomas Canning so it could build a new facility and expand its current operation, canning for the Utopia brand.

Co-owner Bill Thomas began investigating the potential of expansion and provincial funding following the Heinz closure announcement in November 2013.

The plan was for the expansion to be up and running this year.

In April, Thomas Canning announced a $25million export deal with Nigeria.

The Essex Ravens football club and the Harrow Hurricanes soccer club approached Council about potentially taking over the Essex Memorial Arena, similar to how the Ravens took over the pool house as a training facility in the past.

They were looking to transform the Memorial Arena into an indoor athletic facility equipped with turf for the teams to play on and a weight room. It would be open for community use as well. The

benefits of allowing the Ravens and Hurricanes to take over the facility would include relieving the Town of the financial burden of the facility and providing an indoor venue for sports and recreation all year.

In April they made a presentation regarding their plans for the old Essex Memorial Arena.

• The Southern Ontario Military Muster (SOMM) group also put forth a proposal for the facility, in which they were interested.

Council deferred making any hard decisions until a structural analysis on the building could be carried out. Another concern would be how the Memorial Arena would fit into Essex’s master plan.

It was discovered that the costs to repair the old arena and bring it up to code were prohibitive to any future for the facility.

A report from an engineering firm stated it would cost over $4 million to have the Memorial Arena repaired and up to code so it could be used for other purposes.

Essex Memorial ArenaÕ s Recent History: In 2011 serious consideration was given to demolishing the old arena, but it was kept open to assist Lakeshore until that municipality could complete construction on its new arena facility. That

agreement ended in September.

The cost to tear down the arena is around $200,000.

In 2011, the Essex Ravens football club forwarded the idea of putting artificial turf down on the Memorial Arena floor. Council rejected it at that time.

• Essex Council passed the 2014 Municipal Budget.

Taxes went up 2.41 per cent in Ward 1, 2.82 percent in Wards 2 and 3, and 2.73 percent in Ward 4. On an average home worth $155,000, that means an annual increase of $53 in Ward 1 and $60 in all other wards. This reflected the end of an extra levy in Ward 1 for the Aquatic Centre.

The tax increase resulted in $802,000 in additional revenue.

Administration and department heads were to reduce overall operating expenses by one percent for additional revenue of $230,480. This is in addition to other cuts and reductions.

Projects such as Fairview Ave. and the Harbour were postponed, with money kept in reserve so the projects could go forward if federal or provincial grants became available.

A decision on the silos in downtown Essex Centre was postponed. The dangerous metal portion of the structure was removed.

Some money was set aside for the Streetscape plan for Essex Centre in conjunction with the BIA. With BIA contributions and money set aside, $35,000 was invested there with only a $4,000 hit on the budget.

Some of the things Councillors fought for included money for baseball diamonds and completion of work to Concession 14.

Both of these projects had been cut from the budget. Councillor Randy Voakes was very disappointed that over $30,000 had to be removed from planned work at the Essex Diamonds. He asked that in addition to some minor upgrades planned, some consideration be given to fencing and drainage issues that are in need of immediate attention. He asked that $15,000 be found to be used at all diamonds in the municipality for urgent issues. There was $18,000 in reserve for Harrow diamonds that had not been allocated to a specific project as of yet. It was re-allocated to serve all diamonds in the town.

Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche saw putting off work to Concession 14 as a bad decision. He stated that it always seems to be gravel roads that are neglected when times are tough, and they simply aren’t safe. It was important to him that work move forward to tar and chip that road.

There was money in reserve for the Harbour that wouldn’t have been used for

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

at least a year, as more money would have to be saved for the intended project. It was agreed that about $200,000 would be removed from that reserve to be used on the road. It was a condition that it is a priority next year to replace the money.

Enough money was left in this fund to participate in higher-level government grants should they become available.

Administration and council agreed that the town’s traditional time line for the budget process runs too late in the year.

CAO Russ Phillips and municipal staff were going to work on a plan to shorten the process.

• Members of the Kingsville-Essex Associated Band and its colour guard cheered on the members of the Exile winter guard as the team headed to Michigan to compete in the final competition of the season for the Michigan Colour Guard Circuit.

The winter guard managed a thirdplace overall finish, only three points behind the first place team.

APRIL • On Saturday, April 12, Essex resident Kaidyn Blair painted the Town of Essex green through his “Kaidyn’s Dream…a Walk for Life” event.

The 12-year old did so not to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day but to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation through a community walk, run, cycle and wheel event.

When he was one, Blair underwent a 12-hour, lifesaving liver transplant surgery. For the past few years, the Holy Name Catholic School student has gone to great lengths to spread awareness about organ donation and share his story.

On the day of the event, shops and businesses from Fairview Avenue to Essex District High School were urged to use green balloons, ribbons, posters, and sidewalk chalk to decorate the downtown corridor green in support.

Kaidyn’s dream is to get 3653 people to register to be donors through his donor page: www.beadonor.ca/kaidyns-dream or on the Kaidyn’s Dream Facebook Page.

• A subcommittee from the Southern Ontario Military Muster approached Essex Council about wanting to erect a replica Spitfire memorial monument in Essex Centre to honour Essex County airmen.

Bob Swaddling, a representative of the committee and a Spitfire historian, led the presentation. He said a plaque would be located at the base of the monument that would list the names of around 400 airmen, including local pilot Jerry Billing who flew a Spitfire in World War II. The wingspan of the fiberglass monument

Continued on Page 7

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

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Community I 7

Essex Free Press

2014 – A Year in Review...

“Kaidyn’s Dream... A Walk for Life Event.”

would be 36Õ 10Ó and it would be painted as it appeared on D-Day (June 6, 1944).

Essex had a mural depicting a Spitfire, but the building the mural was on was demolished in 2005.

Council supported the project in principal.

• Two more local agricultural greats were inducted into the Essex County Agriculture Hall of Fame during the 22nd Annual Induction Ceremony at the Harrow Fair Exhibition Hall on Thursday, April 3, as Walter Hyland, an Essex area dairy farmer, and Bill Olson, a Ruscom grains and oil seed farmer, were inducted.

• The local Cop Camp celebrated its 20th anniversary.

OPP Sr. Const. Dave Boucher was fairly new to the Kingsville Police Service when he took on the position of Community Services Officer. He was familiar with camping programs run by other police services and decided to start a Cop Camp for the youth in his municipality.

He recruited other police volunteers, courted sponsorship from the business community in Kingsville, and Cop Camp was born the summer of 1994.

The first camp happened in 1994 and hosted around16 boys. It took place at Camp Henry on Point Pelee.

Sr. Const. Boucher ran the camp for the first four years, until the OPP took over policing in Kingsville.

Over those years the camp evolved and expanded. Police officers from other communities volunteered, so campers were recruited from other communities.

In 1998 the OPP took over policing in Kingsville. Sr. Const. Boucher moved to the Leamington Police Service.

The OPP continued the tradition of Cop Camp, expanding it to include every town in Essex County served by the OPP. Cop Camp now hosts about 90 kids. It takes place at Gesswood Camp and has a strong leadership and community service theme.

The 90 Campers account for one student from each grade six VIP class in every community served by the OPP in the County.

Essex OPP Const. Joe Meloche has been involved with Cop Camp since before the OPP took over policing in Essex in 2009. He explained that there are close to 30 police volunteers who participate each year. Ò ItÕ s an awesome camp and an awesome time,Ó he said.

• The Bill Jones, Sr. 3-on-3 tournament was held in Essex for the 13th year in a row as April came to a close.

Lee Jones, the son of Bill Jones Sr., said the event has raised over $110,000 for local minor sports over the past dozen years.

“After dad passed away, we said let’s try this. The first year we had 20 teams and now we have nearly 60. It’s always full,Ó Jones said.

MAY Essex announced a new Deputy Chief for the Essex Fire & Rescue Service. Rick Malott was appointed, starting his new job on May 5.

He has many years of experience as a firefighter with Amherstburg and Essex Services. Prior to him becoming

Continued from Page 6

Deputy Chief, he was Fire Inspector-Public Educator for the Essex service.

• Representing the Rotary Club of Essex, Rotarian Neil McBeth made a presentation to Essex Council to get support to install six to ten Little Free Library boxes on municipal property in Essex.

He explained, Ò One of the mandates of Rotarians is to develop education and literacy.”

Council supported the initiative, which resulted in Little Free Library locations being set up in places like Sadler’s Park, the Essex Centre Sports Complex, the Essex Community Centre and the Aquatics Centre.

• Essex Council supported the Essex Centre Community Improvement Plan in principal.

Stempski, Kelly Associates put the plan together, which established municipal grant programs to promote the revitalization of the downtown core of Essex Centre.

• Essex MPP Taras Natyshak (NDP) announced that he would be seeking re-election in the approaching provincial election (held on June 12).

Ray Cecile (PC) and Crystal Meloche (Liberal) challenged Natyshak for the position.

• Community Living Essex County officially launched its social media presence on Facebook, Twitter and Flickr.

CLEC Manager of Community Relations, Tony DeSantis, explained that establishing a social media presence would help the organization connect with the community, engage prospective volunteers, and promote upcoming events that raise funds so the organization can continue to provide services and programs to around 600 people with intellectual disabilities it supports.

• On Saturday, May 24, the Esther Banks cabin officially opened at the Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village.

The cabin had been on site for a while and was called the Amherstburg Cabin. It is believed to be from the 1820’s. It was moved to Heritage Village in 1980, coming from the North East corner of Park and King streets in Amherstburg. It is considered to be the oldest structure at the museum.

According to family lore, and with information provided by local historians Chris Carter and Elise HardingDavis, Esther Banks is the daughter of the famous Major General Sir Issac Brock and his cook Almania Malawice, who was a princess from Ghana in West Africa.

As part of the display, the cabin has a replica of a grandfather clock owned by the Banks family, a precious red carpet, four volumes of a Bible that were printed in 1816 and a wooden sap bucket.

Esther Banks was born in Amherstburg on June 14, 1812 at Searl House, a hotel, where her mother worked.

General Brock was killed at Queenston Heights four months later. Esther married twice, her second husband was Erving Banks and the family settled in Colchester.

• Essex District High School hosted Mr. Omar Day to celebrate Principal Tony Omar’s time at the school. Omar would be moving to Riverside Secondary School in the fall after eight years at E.D.H.S. Mike Hawkins is the new Principal at E.D.H.S. • The Tot Park, located next to the Essex Municipal Building, got a serious face-lift and upgrade last year. The park, which has been a place for infants, toddlers and preschoolers for decades, was officially re-opened in May and features crawl tubes, a slide, a wheelchair-accessible play structure, and sensory-stimulating activity panels.

The swings are also adaptable, so that infants and toddlers can use them.

• The Cottam United Church community celebrated the 100th anniversary of the building of the church’s sanctuary.

Reverend Kim Gilliland said construction on the sanctuary began in 1913 and it was dedicated in March 1914.

The sanctuary is the oldest part of the Church, which was built in many stages. Ò 100 years of ministry here is a huge milestone,Ó he commented on the occasion.

Worship on the Cottam United Church property began with a Methodist Church, which was the amalgamation of two Methodist Churches in the late 19th century. The

Deputy Chief for the Essex Fire & Rescue Service, Rick Malott.

original church was located closer to the road.

• The Ontario Branch of the Lifesaving Society awards points to its affiliates, recognizing certifications and awards that are delivered within that community each year. Awards are then distributed to the top community in each category, based on community population and its number of facilities.

In a report to Essex Council, it was noted that for the sixth year in a row Essex won the Scarborough Cup, an award given to the municipal affiliate, with a population between 10,000 and 50,000, with the largest lifesaving/ leadership program.

Essex also took second place in the R. Bredin Staples Cup and the Darnell Challenge Cup-single facility category. It also earned third place in the Arnold H. Morphy Cup and the John E. McCutcheon Bowl.

JUNE • In conjunction with Essex Administration, the Essex Accessibility Advisory Committee (EAAC) created a Multi-Year Accessibility Plan that was designed to prevent, pinpoint and address accessibility barriers within the Municipality through to 2017.

The Multi-Year Accessibility Plan will be updated at least once every five years.

This Plan will help with inclusiveness and will have its

Continued on Page 8

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2014 – A Year in Review...

Continued from Page 7

miles around the area to show support for deployed military personnel and all those who serve, including emergency responders. Around 50 people participated in the walk.

• Taras Natyshak was re-elected Essex MPP in the provincial election. Natyshak picked up over 28,000 votes while PC candidate Ray Cecile got 10,178 votes and Liberal candidate Crystal Meloche 6,625 votes. Green Party candidate Mark Vercouteren received 1,679 votes.

After realizing his victory Natyshak addressed his supporters at the Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village on election night. He said, “I got to tell you, it feels pretty good. It was the culmination of a lot of These parishioners were part of a large celebration hard work. at Cottam United Church for the 100th anniversary of the Ò To the people of this amazing riding - our home, our building of the facility’s sanctuary. neighbours - who have entrusted me once again as their voice in the Ontario Legislature, I say to them and to you its members take on various initiatives that will improve thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am honoured to accessibility in Town-related services, programs and fa- once again have this responsibility on your behalf.Ó cilities.

The election was triggered when the PC and NDP par • For the seventh year in a row Walk for the Troops ties rejected the Liberal minority government’s budget. It was held in Cottam. Participants gathered at event-or- turned out to be a good night for the Liberal party as a ganizer Pam SquireÕ s Cottam residence and walked 3.8 whole, as the Liberals were elected back in with a majority.

In the other ridings in the region, Windsor West NDP candidate Lisa Gretzky won over the incumbent, Liberal candidate Teresa Piruzza, Windsor-Tecumseh NDP candidate Percy Hatfield was re-elected and Chatham-KentEssex’s PC incumbent Rick Nicholls was also re-elected.

• The town unveiled its Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan (which will be a blueprint for the next 10 to 15 years) at an open house held at the Essex Centre Sports Complex.

Those that visited the open house had the opportunity to fill out a survey which will help the municipality figure out what they need to improve on.

Essex has a proactive recreation department, and one of the things they have done in the past is receive the federally acknowledged High 5 Accreditation. It is the only municipality in Essex County to achieve the high rating for its services and programs.

• Essex District High School student Josh Grondin was nominated by the senior class to be valedictorian, sending them off to the future at the schoolÕ s Date: le jeudi 15 janvier 2015 / January 15, 2015 129th convocation ceremoHeure: 17h30-19h00 / 5:30-7:00 p.m. ny.

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I Thursday, January 8, 2015

sex Town Council.

On graduation night, Grondin said to his peers, “You have all made such a tremendous impact on me and it is these feelings that make it easy to say I am proud to be a [Red] Raider.

“Wherever our future takes us,” he continued, “the one thing that remains definite is that we will face changes. You will lose friendships, but you will gain new ones.

You may forget some of your fun stories, but you will make new experiences.”

With the construction of the new school taking place on the site of the old one, he added, “This will be the last time you will ever step foot in this school and in a month from now you won’t even be able to see it.”

• Essex Fire & Rescue added a new vehicle to its fleet - a 2014 Ford Rapid Attack Rescue Truck.

The stainless steel bodied vehicle carries all rescue equipment and also has a 400-gallon water tank and pump. While it is meant to be a rescue vehicle, it can also be used as a pumper.

The vehicle works out of Station 2.

• Another new vehicle was added to the fleet in July.

It is a 70’ platform truck that will help keep firefighters safe when responding to emergency situations as the first responders will not have to climb a ladder, but will be elevated in the truck’s bucket. The unit is outfitted with many modern technologies, has a 1,500-gallon unit pump and foam capabilities. It works out of Station 1.

• Essex Fire Chief Ed Pillon was one of the Essex area firefighters to be recognized at the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Provincial Fire Services Long Service Investiture ceremony in Windsor. He was awarded for 45 years of service.

“I’m very grateful to be recognized,” the Essex Chief said. He credited his wife and family for their support and for putting up with the demands of the job.

Pillon was joined on the podium by other Essex firefighters. Captain Rudy Neufeld (Station 2), and firefighters Glenn Gorick and Rick Balind were recognized for 25 years of service. Ted Kuzniar who was supposed to receive his 25 years of service pin unfortunately passed away before the ceremony was held.

Pillon made arrangements to present the pin to TedÕ s wife at his funeral in May. • Ed Pillon retired as Chief later in the year.

JULY • In 2014 there was effort to revitalize the Essex Fun Fest and the results were impressive.

There were more rides, more attractions, more vendors and more entertainment - simply more to see and do at this year’s Fun Fest. There was a compact new layout with a good flow, the return of the outdoor stage and the Essex BIA car show was once again held on Main Street.

Essex Councillor Morley Bowman was co-chair of the Fun Fest committee and has been active in organizing the Fun Fest for the past 27 years. He was pleased with the

Continued on Page 9

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

I

Community I 9

Essex Free Press

parish hall.

• Essex County Library’s Chief Librarian and CEO Continued from Page 8 Janet Woodbridge announced that she would be retiring in August.

He has continued to work diligently with Rotary and She first began working in the Toronto library system has been a driving force behind many Rotary efforts, at in the early 1970s. She graduated with her masters in the mid-1970s. As a student she spent a lot of time in a library home and abroad.

Giving back in sports is something he did for nearly as her undergraduate was in history and thought working four decades. After playing basketball, volleyball, at a library could be a possible career choice. badminton and track and field at Essex, he went on to the After getting her start in Toronto, Woodbridge spent 23 University of Windsor where he studied Human Kinetics years with the Windsor Public Library system before moving to the Essex County Library system seven years and was on the swim team.

When he was in his third year of university, he began ago. She spent the first two years with the local library as the athletic trainer for the Assumption High School system as a Deputy-Chief Librarian and then moved to football team and quickly became that school’s swim Continued on Page 10 coach.

He taught at several Windsor high schools for his first few years as a teacher before he settled at Herman where he taught outdoor education and coached basketball, football, soccer, swimming, water polo and guided the track and field team to the OFSAA championship one year.

He was the head athletic trainer for the AKO Fratmen football team from 1974 to 1980 and was promoted to athletic director of Herman in 1990. After retiring from teaching in 2007 he turned his attention to volunteering in his community.

Besides being a Rotarian, which included spearheading that club’s $50,000 financial campaign for the aquatic centre at the high school, he has been on the board of trustees at the United Church for over 20 years and was a Boy Scout leader for many years.

• Neil was saluted at the Citizen of the Year banquet held in his honour on Saturday, October 25 at the Holy Name Church

2014 – A Year in Review...

Essex’s Citizen of the Year 2014, Neil McBeth

results of Fun Fest 2014, after a lack luster 2013. Ò We brought the family back into the family fun fest,Ó he said on the Monday morning after that event, Ò from that aspect it was a tremendous success.Ó • Neil McBeth was declared Essex’s Citizen of the Year of 2014.

McBeth, a retired teacher with the Greater Essex County District School Board, is best known today for his work with Rotary, locally and on the international level.

He became a member of the Rotary Club of Essex in 1985 and in 1989 was club President. Three times he has been recognized as the Essex Rotarian of the year.

The 2014 Essex Fun Fest

10 I Community/Opinion

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2014 – A Year in Review...

Continued from Page 9

the helm as Chief Librarian and CEO. Her last day of work with the Essex County Library was August 29.

Robin Greenall took over as the new CEO and Chief Librarian in September.

• Twelve-year old Essex resident Kaidyn Blair competed at the Canadian Transplant Games in New Brunswick and brought home the gold.

He won gold medals in the 12-14-year old age category for all five of his events: ball throw, long jump, high jump, bowling, and running.

At the Games gala, he was presented with the National Youth Award in recognition of his organ donation awareness efforts.

AUGUST The Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Museum hosted its 30th annual show at the museum site, located at Co-An Park in McGregor.

The Case line was the star at this year’s show, with Case tractors and machinery on display.

Other brands were represented as well such as John Deere, AllisChalmers and some notso-common tractors such as an 11.26 horsepower Fordson and 1950 Series 3 Field Marshall.

Live music, entertainment, vendors an 1890’s sawmill and more

were additional attractions.

• The Essex Ravens made it to the Ontario Varsity Football League championship game for the first time since 2010.

In the semi-final match up at University of Windsor, the Ravens beat Cambridge 46-12 and then headed to Ottawa to face the defending champions Myers Raiders for the title.

The Ravens were edged out at the championship, as they were defeated on the final play of the game. The score was 25-24.

• Essex Centre played host to the annual Southern Ontario Military Muster, which highlights and honours Canada’s military history.

At the 2014 Muster, held on the grounds at the Essex Centre Sports Complex, special tribute was paid to those who served in Afghanistan.

Canada lost 158 sons and daughters in the Afghanistan war but one soldier who returned says that it was his duty to serve and, if asked, would proudly do it again.

“I would go in a heartbeat,” said Corporal Joe McLeod of Maidstone.

A member of the EssexKent Scottish Regiment, McLeod joined fellow Afghanistan veterans, including Corporal Steve Cunningham.

McLeod was, and still is

a reservist and volunteered to serve his country. It is an unselfish act that began with his great-grandfather Dan King who was in the British Army in WW I and included his grandmother Rowena McLeod, grandfather Jack McLeod and father Peter McLeod who was in the Canadian Army, 1962-1967.

“I had always felt patriotic. I joined when I was 34. I did what I had to do,” said McLeod.

As part of the opening ceremonies at the muster, the names were read out of the 158 soldiers who did not come home from Afghanistan.

McLeod knew some of those who were killed.

“I was at two ramp ceremonies. Most of the time I was there I was out in the desert. It’s a surreal experience to stand there knowing your fellow soldiers who were doing the same thing you were, are gone forever,” he said.

“Everything we take for granted has been taken away from them forever.”

There were many military displays at the Muster, along with a vehicle roll past, rate of fire demonstration, WW I trench tour and a very realistic WW II battle reenactment.

There were also tributes Continued on Page 11

1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 YEAR 4 YEAR 5 YEAR GIC

2.35

2.45

2.52

2.52

2.85

RRSP

2.33

2.50

2.52

2.52

2.85

RRIF

1.80

2.15

2.20

2.37

2.58

T.F.S.A

1.80

2.15

2.20

2.36

2.60

I

Thursday, January 8, 2015

The Voice Of Experience

by Evelyn Couch

- On welcoming another age Did you read the article by Lloyd Brown-John in the Dec. 29 edition of the Windsor Star? It was both thought provoking and humorous I was so impressed that I wished I could copy at least some of it!

He speaks about all the activities youth can anticipate and counteracts that by suggesting going for the morning newspaper is the greatest activity we older people can hope to do. Some of us don’t have reason to do that!

Brown-John suggests that there is little reason, if any, for older persons to celebrate the future on New Year”s Eve and, as he lists all the problems to face, he adds that our clothes keep shrinking.

After he lists all the coming changes that cause us problems he thinks there is not a lot to excite older persons as they “perch on the threshold of 2015”.

Read it, if you haven’t done so, for the sake of the laughs you will get, particularly at the ending.

Perhaps I enjoyed it more than you will because when he writes about circumstances that change as we age, I have lived through more of them than most of you.

Do you make any resolutions? I used to resolve to smile more but that just isn’t natural for me. Don’t ask me why.

You will remember that I told you my little girl asked me, “Mama, why do you always wear such a mad face?”

Thursday, January 8, 2015

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Essex Free Press

markets, no cinemas, no sports, no nightclubs. Even friends cannot meet except by social media. As far as Continued from Page 10 Ebola is concerned those measures have proved of little power. The buses and taxis are Ô necessary evilsÕ that to soldiers like Melvin Allison of Essex who proudly have been allowed to continue with restrictions but so enlisted in the navy in 1944 at the age of 19. far we have escaped contact only by GodÕ s grace. Those • On Monday, August 18, the Town of Lakeshore restrictions donÕ t work. Government has ordered drivers opened the doors to the newly rebuilt Woodslee-based to limit the number of passengers with a compensation Millen Community Centre, which replaced the old Centre of reduction in fuel price. But the promise has not been (formerly the Dr. S.F. Millen School). fulfilled and as usual passengers are crammed like tin The new 7500 square foot facility cost $2.4 million, fish. which included doubling the parking lot size and paving Two days ago I was in a taxi and a woman behind me, it. The facility houses a 1,200 square foot library, a a nurse, was talking on the phone recounting to her friend large community room that can seat around 200, a small a story about how she narrowly survived being infected committee room that can accommodate around 20 people, by an unsuspected patient. According to her, she was a kitchen, and outdoor washrooms and a concession to attending to the man when he suddenly vomited blood all accommodate those enjoying sports recreation behind the over her and she had to rush to take a shower. I couldnÕ t facility. help wondering if this woman had caught the virus and if • As August came to a close, edging into September, so, what would be the fate not only of those who live with a large portion of Essex District High School was torn her but also the passengers who shared the taxi seat with down. her in such tight and sweaty vehicle.

The demolition of the 92-year-old building was Apart from this there are the skyrocketing prices of scheduled to take place sooner but was delayed due to the food material. Prices have gone up by more than 50% and removal of asbestos and lead. Also, demolition couldn’t against the epidemic, to awaken public consciousness. But are still climbing. Stigmatization is also rife. People now begin until the gas was shut off. with awareness came extreme fear of death that kept sick wear hand gloves, and commuters in public transport Built in April 1922, the original building cost $85,000. people from seeking treatment. Government responded by fight over body contact.

E.W. Durnin was the principal of EDHS at the time.

There is a growing feeling of despair among Sierra quarantining every Ô suspected caseÕ .

The new school, which is being built in three phases, This worsened the matter for people with the most Leoneans. The entire country is effectively in quarantine. will cost over $16 million. common illnesses were rounded up and taken to treatment And there is bound to be an escalation. With all borders • In August we published a report from Sierra Leone, centers where they ended up contracting the virus. Also, closed and airlines in and out of the country banned, from Michaella who lives in Freetown, a city of 1.4 with all health centers closed many with otherwise this is a big problem for a poor nation that came out million people. of a protracted war not long ago. Apart from economic treatable diseases have died unattended.

Michaella (or Mickee) is supported by the Essex Currently the virus has been confirmed in 13 out of the dangers, this may lead to an epidemiological catastrophe Family of Schools who helps fund her program, 14 districts of Sierra Leone, with Kailahun and Kenema that the world has yet to witness. For example, the World “Michaella’s Dream.”

2 col x 2” Freetown has relative low Health AprilOrganization 4, 2013 has expressed frustration at its as quarantined epicenters.

Mickee is a survivor of the 10-year civil war and is prevalence but it has its share of quarantined houses and incapability to get medical personnel into the affected trying to help the 10,000 homeless children in Freetown. areas, which seem to be growing. countries. It has also declared that even with things In House Lana They generally range in age from 10 to 12 years old. There is scarcely anyone in Sierra Leone who has not working normally, it would take at least six months to Some have turned to prostitution. They require medical lost someone to Ebola. People have lost seven, eight, nine get the outbreak under control. With the current isolation care, counseling, etc. Mickee works to get these children family members. The rate at which this disease is killing the help and care they need.

Continued on Page 12 people is unprecedented. Personally, IÕ m in Freetown Here is her report (as she wrote it): but my family and some of my friends are stranded in At the Mercy of Ebola Kenema. IÕ m frustrated that I can do little to help except The sheer novelty of the disease in these parts made pray for them. it a sensation that not even the sighting of an UFO could The government has come up with multi-faceted have done. Of course, there had been diseases leading measures to combat the menace. Social life has been to death before Ð malaria, cholera, meningitis Ð but who reduced to near nothing, as one of them, which is a ever heard of an illness with simple symptoms of fever and nightmare of its own. No gathering of all kinds: no diarrhea, which has no cure?

This skepticism aided the current scale of the spread.

For one thing there was always a deep grassroots distrust of the government, and the emergence of the disease eagerly provoked a variety of dangerous conspiracy theories. Health workers were resented and in many areas attacked in the belief that they came with the disease. In other areas it was a belief that the disease was a curse Jeff Willms* Tel: 519-974-3200 ext. 2223 Essex District High School MBA, CFP , CLU, CH.F.C., CHS Fax: 519-974-3282 from witches and could only be cured by juju doctors. The Willms Financial Services Inc.* willms.financial@sunlife.com Your Community High School result was that people refrained from bringing out their Greenwood Centre www.sunlife.ca/wfs.inc.

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Open House and Windsor, ON N8W 5K8 Then there was the socio-cultural factor. Traditional Information Night *Mutual funds offered by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. burials involve a great deal of personal contact with the For Grade 8 Students and dead Ð washing of the body and in exceptional occasions, Their Parents/Guardians bathing with and drinking of the water. There is also the Wednesday, January 14, 2015 inevitable culture of a normal handshake (with both the Registration between 6:00-6:30 P.M. healthy and the sick) and the rare habit of hand washing.

Formal Program: 6:30-8:30 P.M. All these facilitated quick spread.

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2014 – A Year in Review...

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12 I Community

Essex Free Press

2014 – A Year in Review... and with the scourge continuing its rate of devastation (if not doubling it), what will become of Sierra Leone in six months?

One cannot help the feeling that we are being

I Thursday, January 8, 2015

Continued from Page 11

abandoned to our fate of certain death. One old man I spoke to called it the apocalypse. Ò In a year the country will be history,Ó he said.

This may sound like a script from Resident Evil but right now we are living at the mercy of a vicious deadly mass killer.

The Essex Family of Schools built and continues to support a school in Maforeka, Sierra Leone.

There has been great concern for the African member of their school family as Sierra Leone and other African countries in the region continue to suffer from an ebola outbreak that has taken thousands of lives.

SEPTEMBER • The Spitfire monument that honours around 400 Essex County airmen from the RCAF and RAF was unveiled at the Essex Memorial Arena.

It was a great moment for

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the Committee Members who had been working to raise money for the project since January of last year. The total cost was around $143,000.

The replica Spitfire, painted as the plane local pilot Jerry Billing flew on D-Day 1944, was paraded down Talbot St. N. a few weeks later to its permanent location at the Heritage Gardens, next to the Essex Railway Station.

The plane was named Priscilla, after Priscilla (Voakes) Campbell, the daughter of Essex Councillor Randy Voakes and Shelley Voakes who passed away suddenly in August at the age of 30. PriscillaÕ s slogan was, Ò And though she be but little, she is fierce,” a slogan than can be easily applied to the Spitfire aircraft itself.

Hundreds of people gathered at the Heritage Gardens to witness the installation of the monument.

Essex Mayor Ron McDermott said at the ceremony, Ò All those men and women who served in the Royal Air Force and the Royal Canadian Air Force from the County of Essex…built, maintained, and flew aircraft like this Spitfire during WWII,” he said. “Some of the pilots, like EssexÕ s own Jerry Billing, were shot down behind enemy lines, and evaded capture. Others were shot down and taken prisoner. Still others made the ultimate sacrifice. Ò In accepting and dedicating this monument, we are pledged to remember that freedom and many of the rights and privileges that accompany it often come by the steep price.”

• Olivia Bernath, the new youth representative member on Council, attended her first Council meeting. She took over the reins from the town’s first ever Youth Council representative, Josh Grondin.

• Heavy rains resulted in flooding in Essex after five inches of rain fell in around an hour to an hour and a half.

“That is an immense amount of rain,” said Chris Nepszy, Director of Infrastructure and Development for Essex. “Pipes can only handle so much.”

The municipality saw a lot of flooded streets that day.

Bigger problems occurred in areas where sump pumps backed up as well as storm water and sanitary systems.

The hardest hit areas in Essex were McGregor and Essex Centre. Some residents had property damage, especially in their basements. Ò IÕ ve already called back about 130 residents and the list is growing,” Nepszy said at the time. Ò All three pumps at pollution control facilities were running at 100 percent,” he said. Ò On an average day those pumps process about 2,000 cubic metres of water. On Wednesday they moved about 12,000.

“That’s five to six times the average flow,” he added.

A delegation appeared before Essex Council in early October regarding ongoing flooding issues in their neighbourhoods.

Many residents from the affected areas showed up in support of the delegation.

Continued on Page 13

Thursday, January 8, 2015

I

Community I 13

Essex Free Press

2014 – A Year in Review...

Continued from Page 12

Renee Rupert and Dave Cassidy addressed council on behalf of those residents looking for relief from flooding throughout the municipality. Ò WeÕ re here on behalf of the people in chambers, those who could not attend and those who chose not to come because they are too angry,Ó said Rupert.

She showed several slides of flooded basements, streets and yards. She also shared videos of water backing directly out of toilets into peopleÕ s homes. The photos showed fecal matter left over in the basements after the water drained.

She shared several stories from residents throughout Essex Centre and other parts of the municipality who have experienced flooding.

She explained that most residents can no longer get insurance for flooding and many of them have stopped using their basements all together.

Several residents spoke of their own experiences as well. Many who had lived in their homes for a number of years believe that the problem has worsened with new subdivisions and ongoing development.

They believe the system is inadequate to support the growing town.

Dave Cassidy asked the town to investigate how other municipalities have dealt with similar issues. He wanted more investigation into cross connections between the storm water system and the sanitary sewer system.

Residents took issue with the idea that flooding is a new problem when they say it has been ongoing for years. They also took issue with what they call Ò a defeatist attitudeÓ by administration.

Rupert and Cassidy asked council to form a task force of administration, residents and others to work towards a solution for the problem.

Councillors and administration welcomed the idea.

Councillor Randy Voakes made a motion to form this task force by Nov. 10. He asked for a provision to allow the meetings to be open to non-committee members. The motion was passed unanimously.

• The Essex Optimist Club celebrated its 30th anniversary at a banquet held at Holy Name Church’s Parish Hall.

Lionel Corbeil was the Charter president of the Essex Optimist Club in 1984. At the banquet, he said that he is very proud of the club.

Two Essex Optimist Club achievements that stood out in his mind were the creation of the Optimist Bridlewood Park and the Optimist/Lions Club Park.

Along with hosting many events for local youth

(including annual events) and assisting the community at the local level, members of the Essex Optimist Club have served at the district and international levels as well.

Essex Optimists have also helped other Optimist Clubs get started.

• There were many candidates standing for the municipal election, which took place on Monday, Oct. 27.

Councillor Sherry Bondy went unchallenged in her Ward, Ward 4, and was acclaimed for a second term.

Here is a list of candidates that ran in the other Wards: Ward 1 – Steve Bjorkman, Morley Bowman, Brandon Chartier, Devon Jean LeBlanc, Phil Pocock, and Randy Voakes.

Ward 2 – Terry Brockman, Richard Meloche, and Kim Verbeek.

Ward 3 – Bill Caixeiro, Brenda Dunn, Paul Innes, John Scott, and Larry Snively.

Four candidates ran for Mayor: Bill Baker, Andy Comber, Ron McDermott, and Ron Rogers.

OCTOBER • Essex District High School hosted its annual homecoming event. It was a chance for alumni and family members of students at the school to check out the new facility and reminisce about the memories made in the old facility that was now gone.

• The results were in for the municipal election.

Incumbent Ron McDermott was reelected Mayor, defeating the three other challengers. McDermott picked up 2,619

votes. His nearest challenger was Ron Rogers who received 2,392 votes.

In Ward 1 incumbent Randy Voakes topped the polls. Steve Bjorkman was the other candidate elected in Essex Centre.

In Ward 2 incumbent Richard Meloche was re-elected. He was also selected to be Deputy Mayor by the majority of the new council.

In Ward 3 Larry Snively and Bill Caixeiro were elected.

Sherry Bondy was acclaimed in Ward 4.

Council sits for a four-year term.

Elected officials are compensated differently in different municipalities. In Essex in 2013 members of council received

Continued on Page 17

14 I Personals

Essex Free Press

From The Heart

To place a personal notice, email your photo and content to essexfreepress@ on.aibn.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. _________________________________________________________

in LOving MeMOry

_________________________________________________________

In Loving Memory of

RichardÊ Marchand 1964-1965

He has gone to be an angel. Secure in our Father’s care.

And his dear little feet now patter along the beautiful streets up there.

Lovingly remembered by Mom, Terry, Christine, Shelley, and Shawn. ________________________________________________

1

In Loving Memory of

JamesÊ Marchand

st

1945-2014

Every day, in some small way, we miss you more than words can say.

In our hearts you will always stay.

CAMDEN

Lovingly remembered by wife Rose, sons Terry and Shawn, daughters Christine and Shelley. ________________________________________________

Love always Mommy, Daddy & Cael

In Loving Memory of

ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT Don Nussio & Lindsay George

Clifford Dietrich who passed away January 5, 1990

Twenty-five years have come and gone, and as they say, “Life Goes On”.

There’s a place in our hearts for you alone. A piece of undying love no one can own. Deep in our hearts memories are kept, to love and cherish and never forget.

I

Thursday, January 8, 2015

_________________________________________________________

Obituaries

_________________________________________________________

SivernS, Ginger (nee reith) - Peacefully, at the Leisureworld Centre in Mississauga, on Monday December 15, 2014, at the age of 80. Loving mother of Lisa Siverns-LeClair (Brian LeClair). Proud Gran to Lindsay and Caitlin. Predeceased by her mother Minola Reith (1978). Ginger was born and raised in St. Thomas, ON, before moving to Windsor, ON when she married in 1960. A retired school teacher, she taught for more than 30 years, mostly for the Essex County Board of Education. She was Past President of her local teacher’s association, past president of her chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma.

She was also an active member of the Order of the Eastern Star, including Past District Deputy Grand Matron and Past Grand Representative. She will be missed by family and many great friends. Interment St. Thomas Cemetery at a later date. For those who wish, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to the Sick Kids Hospital Foundation. On-line condolences may be made through www.turnerporter. ca. ________________________________________________

THOMPSOn, robert “Carl” - Passed away peacefully with family by his side at 82 years of age on January 3, 2015. Loving and devoted father to Mary Beth Thompson (Alan Miller), Jennifer Thompson, Tim Thompson (Catharine) and Jeff Thompson (Jenn Gatehouse). Beloved Papa of Jeff’s children, Sydney and Adam and Tim and Catharine’s children, Eric and Cole. Cherished companion and long time friend to Pearl Zawadski and family. Predeceased by parents Philip and Grace Thompson and his sister Betty Albright. Carl was a retired machinist by trade and past member of the Windsor Flying Club. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, 5280 Howard Ave., Oldcastle on Saturday, January 10, 2015 at 11 am. Pastor Paul Poolton officiating. If desired memorial donations may be made to Hospice Windsor Essex County by contacting Reid Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 87 Maidstone Ave. East, Essex (519-776-4233) or online at www.reidfuneralhome.ca.

Obituaries continued on Page 15

~ Forever in our hearts - Your Family. ~

Son of Kevin & Cindy Nussio and daughter of Ken & Barb George.

Will be united in marriage in the Fall 2015.

We wish you both a lifetime of love and happiness.

Love your families.

________________________________________________

In Loving Memory of

DorisÊM ayÊA llison A special sister, aunt, and great-aunt.

January 6, 2002 “In the book of life a page is gently turned today.” ~ Fondly remembered by her family. ~

_________________________________________________________

Card Of thanks

What’s Going On...

Evelyn Louisa Stratford

JAN. 9 - BEEF STEW DINNER AT ST. PAuL’S ANGLICAN CHuRCH - (92 St. Paul Street, Essex) 5pm - 6:30pm. Free Will Offering. Call 519-776-7711 for more info.

_________________________________________________________

1914- 2014

Thank you to all that came to Mom’s visitation/funeral on Dec. 29th and sent flowers, gifts, cards or made donations to various charities in her honour.

Tony and Kennedy Funeral Home - we thank you for the wonderful send off for mom and the delicious lunch afterwards. The red roses and red carnations arrangements by Cathy from Country Flower and Gift Shoppe were gorgeous - moms favourite! Thank you also to Carolyn Barnett for providing the music.

Southgate Retirement Home took wonderful care of mom until her final hospitalization. Thanks to Kim Farfanick, Dr. Kelton, Kim and Becky, her nurses there and to Susan who was always helpful. Lastly, thanks to Leamington Hospital and staff, especially Jen, for their care and easing mom’s pain and keeping her comfortable in her last days. We will miss her and she will be in our thoughts forever. ~ Sincerely, Bill & Erna Stratford and Donna & Jim Reeb and families ~

Happy 50th Anniversary January 17th

Rachel & Real Thidbodeau From your family.

There will be an Open House at Pleasant Valley Community Centre on Saturday, January 17th from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

JAN. 10 - PASTA BENEFIT FOR CAROLINE PRINSEN - From 5-7pm at St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 12016 County Rd. 24, Maidstone. Tickets at door. For more info: 519-995-6207.

JAN. 12 - ESSEx COuNTy 4-H ASSOCIATION ANNuAL AWARDS AND SIGN-uP NIGHT at the Essex Legion in Essex from 6:30 to 8:30pm. See ad in this week’s Free Press for info.

JAN. 19 - KINGSvILLE HORTICuLTuRAL SOCIETy MEETING - at 7pm, at the unico Community Centre. 37 Beech Street E., Kingsville. visitors always welcome.

JAN. 24 - 2015 POLAR BEAR DIP - At 10:00 am at Lakeside Pavilion & Cedar Beach. For more information and to register, visit www.polarbeardip2015.kintera.org.

JAN. 28 - SuN COuNTy LyME AWARENESS SuPPORT GROuP - First general meeting at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens at 6:30 p.m. Learn how Lyme Disease affects our area.

JAN. 29 - MAyOR’S BREAKFAST at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens, Road 3, Kingsville, from 8 am – 9:30 am. For more information, call 519-326-2721.

JAN. 30 - K OF C COuNCIL #2844 HOSTING CHICKEN/SLIDERS NIGHT - At the K of C Hall in McGregor at 6pm.

ESSEx LIBRARy - Family Storytime is a program for families of parents with children under 5 years of age to encourage a lifelong love of reading. This program includes stories, bounces, tickles, songs, rhymes and activities. WEDNESDAyS(January 14 - March 11)at 10:30 am. THuRSDAyS (January 15 - March 12)at 10:30 am. Ages 0 - 5 years old & caregiver. Register online or at the library. For more info and programs: lgranttaylor@ essexcountylibrary.ca COTTAM LIBRARy - Storytime is a program for parents with children (3 - 5 years) and siblings to encourage a lifelong love of reading. This program includes stories, fingerplays, rhymes, music, songs and activities. SATuRDAyS (January 10 - February 28) at 9:00 am.

Ages 3 - 5 and caregiver. Register online or at the library. For more info and programs: lgranttaylor@essexcountylibrary.ca

Thursday, January 8, 2015

I

Classifieds I 15

Essex Free Press

Classifieds

Placing a classified ad: classified ads can be submitted in person, by phone or fax or email from Monday to friday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. There is a $1 surcharge on any classified billing under $15. We accept Visa | Mastercard | debit | cash | cheque.

DeaDline is TuesDay by 10:00 am

_________________________________________________________

_____________________

_____________________

EvEnts _____________________ BINGO 1st & 3rd Fridays 7:15 P.M. 32 Russell St. - Retirees’ hall $ 500.00 JACKPOT 1-tf _____________________

FARMInG _____________________ WANTed: Farmland to rent or share crop.

Competitive rates. dent Farms. Call daryn: 519-818-4995.

3-tfn _____________________

Obituaries... continued from Page 14

_________________________________________________________

sTRaTfoRd, evelyn louisa (nee Reid) - Passed away peacefully on december 26, 2014 at 100 years of age. Beloved wife of the late Charles John Stratford (2004). Loving mother of donna and husband Rev. James Reeb, William and wife Swierina (erna) Stratford.

Treasured grandmother of Scott, Troy, Kendra, Kristen Reeb, Sonja and Chad Stratford. Great-grandmother of 6 greatgrandchildren. Sister of the late Lloyd, Walter, Garnet, Harold, and Leola. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. evelyn was a former member of the Rebekah Lodge, Women’s Institute and the essex Retirees. A visitation and funeral service was held at the Kennedy Funeral Home Limited (519-776-7378) 128 Talbot St. N, essex. Cremation followed. donations may be made to Windsor Regional Cancer Centre or the Heart and Stroke Foundation. you may send your condolences online at www.kennedyfh.com. ________________________________________________

scHWaRk, Rita lorraine (nee cecile) - Passed away on december 22, 2014 at the age of 89. dear wife of the late Roland Lachapelle (1987) and later of the late Frederick Schwark (1983). Loving mother of Richard (dave) and wife Angela Lachapelle, Cheryl Tomlinson and husband Walter (Texas), darlene Pray (Texas). dearest daughter of the late Alphonse and Rose Cecile. Cherished Mémé of Sonny, Melanie, Cara, Lindsay and Stewart. Great-grandmother of 10 great-grandchildren. Beloved sister of the late Louise Renaud and late husband Wally, the late Walter Cecile and late wife Millie, Bernadette drouillard of Arizona and late husband ernest, doreen Sarver and late husband Mel. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. If you so desire, donations to the Lung Association would be appreciated by the family. At Rita’s request there will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted to FAMILIeS FIRST 1065 Lauzon Rd. east Windsor (519-969-5841). Share memories, photos or make a donation online at www.FamiliesFirst.ca.

Phone 519.776.4268

Fax: 519.776.4014

KITTeNAIde 2-FUR-1 AdOPTION dAy - Saturday, January 10, from 11am-3pm at Petzown (1715 Manning Rd.) Cats & Kittens. 519-324-2729.

1-1t _____________________

FARMInG _____________________ WANTed Farm Land to Rent Cash or Share Crop Call Jeff Siefker (cell) 519-796-1240 or (home) 519-776-9501 1-tf

_____________________ WANTed: We Farm It Like It’s Our Own! 3rd generation Lakeshore farmer looking to CASH rent / buy / share crop in essex / Kent Counties. Available services incl. planting, crop protection, harvesting, trucking. Call dennis Rivet at Infinity Farms Inc. (519) 796-6691.

1-tf

FOR ReNT: 1 bdrm apartment. Very clean. 2nd Floor. Very quiet. Fridge and stove included. $700/per month. First & last required. Call 226-350-1943 for more information.

1-3t* _____________________ FOR ReNT: 2 bdrm apartment in Woodslee. $590 + hydro. First & last required. No pets. Call Gary at 519-7764403.

1-tfn _____________________ FOR ReNT: 1 bedroom apartment available immediately. In the Cottam area- quiet building. $600/month all utilities incl. First & last months rent required. Please call 519-819-1039 & leave a message.

44-tfn

REAl EstAtE _______________________________________________

RUTH ANN HICKEY SALE REPRESENTATIVE

30 Years Experience

5199721000

24 Hour Pager

Have Ruth Ann’s Experienced Negotiating Skills Work For You.

519-735-6015

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Res: 776-1362 • Cell: 519-566-2541 Fax: 519-735-7994 Email: timmcguire@buckinghamrealty.ca 12214 Tecumseh Rd. E. Tecumseh, ON. N8N 1L9

Allow me to help you with your Real Estate needs!

EMPLOYMENT OPPS.

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Clean driver’s abstract/CVOR Criminal Record Search Minimum 2 years cross border exp.

Must complete pre-employment drug test

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REACH MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS IN ONTARIO WITH ONE EASY C A L L ! Yo u r C l a s s i f i e d A d o r Display Ad would appear in weekly newspapers across Ontario in urban, suburban and rural areas. 647350-2558, kmagill@rogers.com or visit: www.OntarioClassifiedAds.com.

Mississauga terminal also looking for licensed LCV Drivers.

_______________________________________________

PCL ENERGY - Now Hiring JourneypersonStructural Ironworkers, Pipefitters & B Pressure Welders ($44+/ hr) for an industrial project in Northern Alberta. Camp provided; travel paid to those who qualify. Benefits, pension plan and RRSPS offered. Apply with resume to: pclenergyjobs@pcl.com or fax 1-888-398-0725.

CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-866-281-3538

1-877-588-0057 ext. 4612 for more details on each position.

Continued on Page 16

FOR SALE

Cross Border Company Drivers Required

OR CALL TOLL-FREE:

FOR sAlE _____________________ FOR SALe: 3” Blue Styrofoam Sheets 2’ x 8’ @ $15.00 ea - Call Gagnon Salvage 519-726-5282.

50-4t* _____________________ FOR SALe: Cross bow Blackhawk, like new with scope. Also, older compound bow. Call 519-975-2949 or 519-9954450 or 519-300-6998.

50-1t*

For more information contact your local newspaper.

ADVERTISING

APPLY TO:

FOR REnt _____________________ STORe FOR ReNT - downtown essex, lots of parking. For more info, call 226-3501943.

48 - 6t _____________________ FOR ReNT - 2 bdrm apartment with yard.

A block away from town. Fridge, stove, washer & dryer. $650 + utilities. Call 403-478-4118. Call or text.

50 - 2t*

_____________________

ADVERTISE ACROSS ONTARIO OR ACROSS THE COUNTRY!

or

recruiting@rosedale.ca

_____________________

FOR ReNT: 2 bdrm apartment in downtown essex. First & last required.

519-776-6078.

1-tfn _____________________

KC Properties (GP) Limited hereby gives notice to the Estate of Tim Queen that the house located 331 Viscount Parkway, Essex, Ontario, N8M 2C2 will be sold 60 days after the publication of this notice. Interested parties should contact KC Properties (GP) Limited in writing at 77 Bloor Street West, Suite 2000, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1M2

263-8267

Requirements 2009 must be trucks or newer We will inspect older equipment Clean driver’s abstract/CVOR/FAST Card Minimum 2 years cross border exp.

Email: essexfreepress@on.aibn.com

NOTICE TO THE ESTATE OF TIM QUEEN:

LAIDLAW CARRIERS VAN DIVISION requires experienced AZ licensed drivers to run the U.S. Premium mileage rate. Home weekly. New equipment.

Also hiring Owner Operators. 1-800-

Owner Operators Required

www.sxfreepress.com

FOR REnt _____________________

Network DRIVERS WANTED

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HEALTH DISABILITY BENEFIT GROUP - Suffering from a Disability? The Canadian Government wants to give you up to $40,000. For details check out our website: www.disabilitygroupcanada.com or Call us today toll-free 1.888.875.4787.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

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CAREER TRAINING NEW YEAR, NEW CAREER! CanScribe Medical Transcription graduates are in high demand. Enrol today and be working from home in one year! info@canscribe.com. 1-800466-1535. www.canscribe.com

Connect with Ontarians – extend your business reach! www.networkclassified.org

MORTGAGES AS SEEN ON TV - Need a MORTGAGE, Home Equity Loan, Better Rate? Bad Credit, Self-Employed, Bankrupt? Been turned down? Facing Foreclosure, Power of Sale? CALL US NOW TOLL-FREE 1-877-7334424 and speak to a licensed mortgage agent. MMAmortgages.com specializes in residential, commercial, rural, agriculture, farms, & land mortgages. Visit: www.MMAmortgages. com (Lic#12126). $$$ 1st, 2nd, 3rd MORTGAGES Debt Consolidation, Refinancing, R e n o v a t i o n s , Ta x A r r e a r s , n o CMHC fees. $50K you pay $208.33/ month (OAC). No income, bad credit, power of sale stopped!! BETTER O P T I O N M O RT G A G E S , C A L L TODAY Toll-Free 1-800-282-1169, www.mortgageontario.com (LIC# 10969).

STEEL BUILDINGS STEEL BUILDINGS..."REALLY BIG SALE!" All steel building models and sizes. Plus extra savings. Buy now and we will store until spring. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422 www.pioneersteel.ca STEEL BUILDINGS/METAL BUILDINGS 60% OFF! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-457-2206 www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

16 I Classifieds

Essex Free Press

Classifieds...

Memorial _____________________

_____________________

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE _____________________ LOT FOR SALE - Commercial and residential, multi-purpose zoned, just outside of Essex on Cty. Rd. 34 N. 116 x 379 w/mature trees. All services are by the road. Call 519-791-6305.

47-5t* _____________________

_____________________ Buying or Selling a farm? Do you know the right questions and answers? Farm Experienced Realtor Carl Idzinski, Real Choice Realty. 519-817-8891.

1-t _____________________ FOR SALE: 1 ACRE BUILDING LOT at North Talbot, near Manning. $149,900. Water is in and paid for. 45ft culvert to be installed at seller’s expence. Call Experienced Realtor Carl Idzinski, Real Choice Realty.

519-817-8891.

1-tfn

Memorial verses available

HELP WANTED _____________________ verses HELp WANTED: Seasonal Snow Removal Worker. Experience preferred. available Willt rain.Faxr esumet o5 19-723-2336.

HELP WANTED

WANTED Experienced, Licensed: REFRIGERATION TECHNICIANS SHEET METAL TECHNICIANS PLUMBERS

Memorial verses available at

Forward resume to: GROSSI PLUMBING, HEATING & HVAC SERVICES 238 Talbot Street West Leamington, Ontario N8H 1P1 Fax 519-326-3632 Email grossi@grossiplumbing.ca

Memorial verses available at

What’s black and white and read all over?

16 Centre Street, Essex www.essexfreepress.ca

519.776.4268

What’s black and Town of Essex white Summer Student 2015 Program read The Town ofand Essex is currently accepting applications for our Summer Student 2015 Program. Eligibility allprogram, over? rules for the positions available, job descriptions and application forms may be found on our website at www.essex.ca.

Students must complete an application form and attach a resume for each position they are applying for. Applications must be submitted by 4:30 p.m.

Friday, February 27, 2015.

Applications may be submitted: • by mail to Town of Essex Summer Student Program 33 Talbot Street South Essex, ON N8M 1A8 • in person at the Municipal Building • by email to hr@essex.ca

SERvicES

Thursday, January 8, 2015 _____________________

LEGAL NOTicE

_____________________

_____________________

“ON TIME MOvERS” - Are you moving?

Need something picked up or delivered? please call Larry or Dave today! 519736-7411 or 519-984-7412.

1 _____________________

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND OTHERS All claims against the estate of philip David STERNBAUER, late of Woodslee, Ontario, who died on or about the 22nd day of September, 2014, must be filed with the undersigned Estate Trustee on or before the 9th day of January, 2015; thereafter, the undersigned will distribute the assets of the said estate having regard only to the claims then filed.

DATED at Essex this 10th day of December, 2014.

Memorial

RELIABLE CLEANING LADY AvAILABLE: Willing to clean. Essex, Woodslee and Belle River Area. References available.

Free Estimates. If interested call: 519723-9523.

50 - 3t* _____________________

WANTED _____________________ CASH pAID for scrap cars and trucks. Free removal. please phone: 519-776-9237 or 519-791-5046.

1-tfn

Notice to Residents of the Town of Essex

Memorial verses availableCommittee/Board Appointments

_______________________________________________

Call us today!

39- tfn _____________________

SERvicES _____________________ KAHL RECYCLING - We come to you HELP WANTED _____________________ Memorialand haul away your junk. Metals and appliances are free. Everything else has DRIvERS WANTED: AZ or verses DZ Clean a fee. We also take electronics, ballist, available record. Will train qualified applicants. Fax computers. Kall Ken 519-326-8559. Cell: resume to Quinlan Inc. 519-723-2336.

519-322-8305.

11-tff 1- tfn

_______________________________________________

Classified ads get results.

_____________________

_____________________

I

Please be advised that the Council of the Town of Essex is seeking interested citizens to serve on the ELK Energy Board and the Arts, Culture and Tourism (ACT) Committee (formerly known as the Mural Committee).

ELK Energy Board – One member will be appointed from Ward 1 (Essex Centre) and one member will be appointed from Ward 4 (Harrow Centre). The applicant must be an ELK customer.

Arts, Culture and Tourism (ACT) Committee – The mandate of this new committee will be to actively promote, develop and support the various aspects of the cultural art forms, including but not limited to dance, drama, theatre, visual arts, film, literature, music and sculpture in multiple mediums throughout the municipality.

Persons interested in serving on one or both of the above should submit their names in writing, along with a brief outline of their qualifications to the undersigned no later than Friday, January 16, 2015.

Please Cheryl A Bondy, Clerk RecycleTown of Essex this 33 Talbot Street South paper Essex, Ontario

N8M 1A8 Email: cbondy@essex.ca Fax: 519-776-8811

verses David Benjamin STERNBAUER, Estate Trustee, by his Solicitors, available at HICKEY BYRNE, 14 Centre Street, Essex, Ontario, N8M 1N9. Attn: Joseph A. Byrne.

519-776-7349

Memorial v availab

Memorial vers

IT PAYS T

ADVERTIS

Call Call 519-776-4 519-776-4

Please Recycle this paper

Now Hiring Managers Assistants and Supervisors.

Full Time and Part Time Available.

Please send resume to: infokscrowder@gmail.com

Please Recycle this paper PUBLIC NOTICE KINGSVILLE COUNCIL MEETING LOCATION TAKE NOTICE that the Regular Meetings of Council for The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville will be held at the Council Chambers at the Kingsville Municipal Office located at 2021 Division Rd. North, Kingsville.

All are welcome to the fully accessible facility.

DATED at Kingsville, Ontario this 2nd day of January, 2015.

Please Recycle R. Orton, Director of Corporate Services/Clerk this paper The Corporation of the Town of Kingsville 2021 Division Road North, Kingsville, ON N9Y 2Y9

Thursday, January 8, 2015

I

Community I 17

Essex Free Press

2014 – A Year in Review...

Mayor Ron McDermott and Ward 1 Concillor Randy Voakes.

a base pay, plus travel and conference expenses, plus honorariums. Annual base pay varied on position as follows; $33,470 for Mayor, $20,367 for Deputy Mayor and $17,402 for Councilor.

• Those inducted into the Windsor-Essex Sports Hall of Fame, included three people with close ties to the Essex community.

Sandy Repko, Dave Prpich and Bill Hogarth, were all inducted. Collectively they have logged more than 100 years of commitment and dedication to their community.

Repko was a long time educator at Essex District High School (since the 1960s). She assisted many of the school’s teams as statistician, scorekeeper and more. She continues to volunteer her time in this capacity.

Hogarth was another EDHS teacher. He is also an icon when it comes to the impact he has made on wrestling not only in Windsor-Essex but internationally as well.

Currently he is helping prepare for the upcoming PanAm Games and his experiences have seen him be the Team Manager of the 2008 Olympic team and the 2013 Pan-Am Championships.

He taught at Essex District High School from 1982 to 2008 and led the Red Raiders wrestling team to 13 WECESSAA, 10 SWOSSAA and three provincial OFSAA team championships.

Town of Essex By-Law Department Notice Residents and property owners are reminded of the requirements pursuant to

By-Law #1108 A By-Law Respecting the Removal of Snow and Ice from Sidewalks in the Town of Essex

Owners or occupants of all properties in the Town of Essex are responsible for the removal of snow and ice from sidewalks in front of, alongside and rear of such property.

Penalty – The Town may clear away and remove snow and ice from the sidewalks, and the Town may recover the expense incurred in like manner as municipal taxes. The Town at its discretion may also issue a ticket for the violation.

Commercial – Where snow falls or ice forms upon the sidewalk, the owner or occupant shall remove the said snow or ice from the sidewalk within a) Four (4) hours following the snow fall or formation of ice upon sidewalks during daylight hours; or b) Four (4) hours following sunrise in the case of snow falling or ice forming overnight.

Single Family Dwelling – The owner or occupant shall clear away and remove snow and ice from sidewalks within twelve (12) hours following the snow fall or formation of ice.

Multiple Family Building – The owner shall clear away and remove snow and ice from sidewalks within twelve (12) hours following the snow fall or formation of ice.

33 Talbot Street South, Essex • 519-776-7336

Continued from Page 13

In all, 56 wrestlers won medals at the provincial level under his direction including several who excelled on the international mat including Colin Daynes, Kurtis Mills, Barney Chauvin and Stuart Chauvin.

Prpich was another educator, teaching high school for 21 years. He was also one of the most successful coaches in the history of the Essex 73’s Junior ‘C’ Hockey Club.

He took over behind the bench of the 73’s in their second year (1974) and won the all-Ontario title and soon was stacking up many Great Lakes Junior ‘C’ Hockey League crowns.

He also excelled in football, basketball, track and field and hockey as a Red Raider.

From the 73’s, he moved to the Windsor Spitfires where he served in numerous capacities for 18 seasons including six times when he was the interim head coach.

• The Windsor-Essex Branch of the Retired Women Teachers of Ontario group recognized longtime educator Ethel Allison, presenting her with the Cora Bailey Award.

This prestigious award was presented in recognition of her service to the organization and her career as a local music teacher and librarian.

After retirement, Allison spent a number of years as a volunteer with Malden Central School, taught Sunday school at Woodslee United Church, and was a founding member of the Maidstone Bicentennial Museum, for which she still volunteers. She has been a long-time member of the Windsor-Essex Branch of the Retired Women Teachers of Ontario group.

NOVEMBER Councillor Sherry Bondy forwarded her concerns after she read the annual accommodation and capital planning report for the Greater Essex County District School Board.

She said the report was alarming as it pertains to Harrow Centre and was seeking the continued commitment of Council to the future of education in Harrow Centre.

Her concerns stem from the report’s bleak look at education in Harrow. She read two lines from the report, one of which highlighted that Harrow is continuing to experience declining enrollment, aging infrastructure, and increasing renewal cost. The second sentence she shared from the document said it is “time to revisit the viability of maintaining the current arrangement.”

• The Essex Red Raiders hosted their annual pasta dinner to raise money for the school in Maforeka, Sierra Leone, Africa that they built a few years ago and continue to support.

Usually the $3,500-$4,000 they raise at these dinners is used to keep the school running throughout the year.

This year, the money will be used for a different purpose; keeping the students, staff and their families alive.

The Ebola crisis in Sierra Leone, where the school is located, has students staying home and communicating with teachers via two-way radio.

No crops were harvested in Sierra Leone this year.

Food prices have skyrocketed, so some of the money raised will go to buy rice at $45 a bag.

DECEMBER Essex Centre was a beneficiary of Andrew Carnegie’s generosity in 1914.

The man who created the Carnegie Steel Company and became one of the richest men in the U.S.A. was a major philanthropist. One of his more important philanthropic efforts was the construction of 2,509 libraries throughout the English-speaking world.

Essex Centre was one of the communities one of those libraries was built in.

The library still stands today on Gordon St. in Essex Centre, built on lands donated by the Town and formerly used as the Town’s horse shed lot. It was a public library until 2005, and now is the home to the Es-

sex and Community Historical Research Society.

In 2009, the Historical Research Society got a 95-year lease to the building, so the building still serves to educate the public as a historical reference centre and research facility.

ECHRS hosted a 100th anniversary of the building at the end of the month.

• Lakeshore Mayor Tom Bain was elected by his fellow County Councillors to again serve as Essex County Warden while LaSalle Mayor Ken Antaya was elected Deputy Warden.

This is Antaya’s first term as Deputy Warden. He said his primary role as Deputy would be to support Bain in his role as Warden.

This is Bain’s second consecutive term as Warden.

The two said they would focus on diversifying and strengthening the economy, highlighting the region’s agricultural strengths and improving the region’s transportation infrastructure.

Also on their to-do list was expanding high speed Internet in the county and improving the working relationship with Windsor.

Christmas Tree Recycling Program Residents may drop off live Christmas trees at one of the designated municipal locations identified below, starting December 26 and ending January 30: • Co-An Park Parking Lot 11071 Concession 11, McGregor • Harrow and Colchester South Community Centre 243 McAffee Street, Harrow (South end of parking lot) • Kinsmen Field House Parking Lot 120 Fairview Avenue West, Essex All trees will be mulched for future horticultural recycling programs throughout the town.

For more information, call 519-776-7336.

18 I Community/Sports

Essex Free Press

I Thursday, January 8, 2015

Jett’s Blood Donor Clinic a success...

Continued from Page 3

Jett Paquette receives a blood transfusion every four weeks. He has Hereditary Spherocytosis. Submitted Photo.

Ò You canÕ t buy blood. You rely on complete strangers to donate. ItÕ s awesome that people give kids a chance to live,Ó she said.

By spreading awareness of the clinic, 91 percent of the clinicÕ s appointments had been filled, with walkins still coming through the door. Her goal was to collect 144 units, and the clinic surpassed that number.

Stacey thanked everyone who attended

the clinic. Ò How can you say thank you to someone giving the gift of life,Ó she commented.

Blood Donor Clinics are held inside the Essex Legion throughout the year. For more information about upcoming clinics or to learn more about donor requirements, log onto www.blood.ca.

Questions about eligibility can be asked by calling the 24/7 number 1-888-2-donate.

A donor must be 17-years old or over. There is also a weight/height requirement.

Donated blood can go to support many different people with a variety of needs. Cancer patients can need up to eight units of blood per week. A car accident victim could need up to 50 units. An individual who has had a liver transplant could need up to 100 units of blood.

Throughout the year, Canada Blood Services collects around 900,000 units of blood from permanent locations and mobile clinics.

Jett is also involved with the Little Hands Kids for a Cause organization, which supports youth with chronic illnesses in the area. This group raises funds to support these families. Area youth with a chronic illness affiliated with the organization are named a Ò Little Hero,Ó which Jett was recently acknowledged as being.

by Fred Groves Alex Friesen of Essex was recently named the MVP at the Junior Ô BÕ Prospects game. An OHL draft pick of the Kitchener Rangers, Friesen has 17 points in 32 games thus far for the Leamington Flyers.

The Flyers took on the host LaSalle Vipers Wednesday night.

• Essex District High School grad Nicole Morse had six points and six rebounds, five of them defensive, to help QueenÕ s to a recent 72-38 win in womenÕ s university basketball action.

• After a two-week break, local high school action continues this week.

Both the EDHS girls’ (0-32) and boys’ (2-1-3) hockey teams were in action Wednesday at home. The Red Raiders girlsÕ team faced off against LÕ Essor while the boys played St. JosephÕ s.

Today (Thursday), the EDHS girlsÕ volleyball teams are in action as they host Belle River. The senior Red Raiders come

into the game with a 1-4 mark.

• New Year’s Eve was a happy one for McGregorÕ s Terry Reid as his horse, Sweetlandofliberty finished third in the 10th race at Western Raceway.

A day later, at the same track, South WoodsleeÕ s Boris Laus saw Best of the Bunch take second in the eighth race while Murphy’s Ideal, co-owned

by Gordon McDonnell of Essex, won the 11th. At Flamboro on New YearÕ s Day, Mister Big Top, owned by Donald Leschard of South Woodslee was third in the fourth race.

• It was a great way to ring in 2015 for EssexÕ s Matt Puempel as he had a a Gordie Howe hat trick New YearÕ s Eve against

Leigh Valley in AHL hockey action. Puempel had a goal, an assist and was in a fight during a 6-2 win for his Binghampton Senators. He was named the third star of the game.

• EDHS grad Emily McClosky had 11 kills and 14 points on Dec. 28 to help the University of Windsor womenÕ s volleyball team to a 3-2 win over Western.

• Ryan Green scored a goal for the University of Windsor menÕ s hockey team on Saturday in a 6-5 loss to host University of New Brunswick.

If you have anything for the sports roundup, please contact Fred Groves at FredGrovesgrover54@ hotmail.com.

Voice Of Inspiration Ò Change is the end of something you know and the beginning of something else that you donÕ t know. Something new that holds opportunities.Ó ~ Kholoud Yasser

Thursday, January 8, 2015

I

Community/Sports I 19

Essex Free Press

ECHRS Celebrates Carnegie

Essex Mayor Ron McDermott reminisces about the Carnegie Library at an open house celebratation.

by Jennifer Cranston The Carnegie Library building on Gordon Street has been a big part of Essex for a century and ECHRS was eager to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the SocietyÕ s home.

The building was donated by the Andrew Carnegie

Foundation and celebrated its grand opening on Dec. 18, 1914. It was one of over 2000 libraries built by the American philanthropist.

The building served this community as a public library until 2005 when size and accessibility issues became too much of a challenge and a new library was opened on Gosfield Town Line.

Fortunately the newly created Essex Community Historical Research Society was in need of a home, and the building gained a new purpose. The historical research facility and community archive continue to provide education to the community, following CarnegieÕ s passion for education.

At the celebration open house, ECHRS President Laurie Kowtiuk expressed extreme gratitude on behalf of her group to the town for being allowed to occupy and maintain the historical building.

Mayor Ron McDermott reminisced about the role this building has played in the lives of those who live in the area. Ò If you grew up in and around Essex, you have spent time in this building,Ó he said.

McDermott is glad that there is such an eager group of volunteers willing to maintain the local treasure. Ò We are very grateful to ECHRS for their on-going stewardship of the Carnegie Building,Ó he said. Ò It is

one of only a few historical buildings in town.Ó Long time Essex librarian Judy Ward (she served for 28 years) spoke about some of the history of the library and reminisced about some exciting times.

She marveled at how the building only received minor damage during the 1980 explosion, and shared the excitement of an unexpected visit from famous environmentalist David Suzuki, later that decade.

The Carnegie Library in Essex was the first computerized branch in the Essex County Public Library system.

Ward explained that at the 90th anniversary celebration of the library, accessibility concerns had become evident. There were several long time patrons who could no longer visit the library due to their age, and lack of mobility. The front stairs of the building were too challenging.

In 2005 the public library moved to its present location. In 2007, the Carnegie was given a new 95year lease on life in the hands of ECHRS.

Ravens football program leaves town

by Fred Groves The Essex County Ravens football program has left town.

Club president Glen Mills has confirmed that the Ravens have vacated their clubhouse at the Sun Parlour School next to Essex District High School.

Since 1997, the Ravens have called it home. Ò I donÕ t think we will be playing in Essex any more. We had to move out of the school,Ó said Mills who is also the commissioner of the Ontario Varsity Football League.

The Sun Parlour School has taken on many purposes in the last couple of years including a site for the Essex Area Food Bank and classrooms being utilized for students during the construction of the new high school. Ò They (Greater Essex County District School Board) told us there had to be renovations done but that they couldnÕ t guaran-

tee we could stay there.

We received a letter saying we had to be out by Dec. 31,Ó said Mills.

For now the Ravens equipment and trophies, which represent 17 years of success, is scattered on the floor of the old Essex Memorial Arena. Ò This has been our town. This is where we chose to play,Ó said Mills.

The Ravens had tried to take over the old arena in an attempt to turn it into a practice facility but that did not materialize.

The only indication that the Ravens had ever been at the Sun Parlour School is a parking sign that designates a spot for Ô Coach MillsÕ . Ò ItÕ s frustrating, there is no rhyme or reason for this.Ó Last year, due to renovations at the high school, the Ravens peewee, bantam, and junior varsity teams played at Villanova High School in LaSalle

while the varsity team, which Mills is the head coach of, was at the University of Windsor.

It looks as though Villanova could be the new permanent home of the Ravens. They will have to do extensive work there however including building a new clubhouse and installing lights. Ò I donÕ t think anyone is happy about it,Ó said Mills of having to leave Essex, which is central for players who live throughout the region.

With the addition of two teams this upcoming year, 9-10 year-olds in both the summer and fall leagues, the Ravens now have eight teams and over 300 players on their rosters.

The Essex Ravens have produced many professional athletes, most notable are South Woodslee quarterback Kyle Quinlan who led the McMaster Marauders to the na-

tional title and was a Hec Creighton award winner as the top Canadian university player. Also, LaSalleÕ s Luke Willson is in his second year with the NFLÕ s Seattle Seahawks and he boasts a Super Bowl ring. Ò There is no one who has had the success we have had at putting kids to the next level,Ó said Mills.

Mills heads to Dallas, Texas on January 23 where he will coach Team Canada against the U.S. Team on January 18.

Saturday JANUARY 17th 8am – 1 pm Saturday JANUARY 24th 8am – 1 pm @ the ESSEX CENTRE SPORTS COMPLEX House League: T-Ball* Rookie* Mosquito Pee Wee Bantam Midget Jr. Girls Int. Girls Sr. Girls

(2011-2009) (2009-2006) (2005-2004) (2003-2002) (2001-2000) (1999-1997) (2006-2004) (2003-2001) (2000-1997)

Travel**: Rookie Mosquito Pee Wee Bantam Midget Junior

(2008-2006) (2005-2004) (2003-2002) (2001-2000) (1999-1997) (1996-1995)

Fees for 2015: 1 player $90 2 players $170 3 or more $240 T-Ball

$50

*

Children born in 2009 can play either t-ball or rookie house league. ** Major/Minor teams may be available depending on registration numbers

Registration fee includes discounted admission to EMBA Detroit Tiger day (subject to ticket availability) Late registration will be subject to availability and late fees may apply Gym workouts will begin in February at some age levels.

Pre-registration will be required to attend the workouts.

For more information visit www.leaguelineup.com/emba

20 I Community Hub

Salvation Army Essex Community Church News submitted by Carolyn Barnett Happy New Year and may you enjoy God`s many blessings in 2015!

A sincere thank you goes out to all those who volunteered in so many ways to help with our Christmas activities. We truly appreciate community support.

Our weekly activities have resumed. Don`t forget Messy Church Thursday, Jan. 8 from 6-9 p.m. Everyone is welcome to enjoy a new way of experiencing church which includes a free family style dinner, contemporary worship, crafts and activities.

Tuesdays are our SA Connections program. Join us for a low impact walking video at 9:30 a.m., followed by Connections from 10 -1. Bible Study starts at 1:15 p.m. These community programs are open to all ages. There are activities for everyone and a delicious free lunch. Drop in and enjoy meeting new friends !

Join us for Family Worship at 11 a.m. every Sunday. Lt. Kristen Gray continues her sermon series based on “The Story” with this weeks` topic “God`s Messengers.”

Don`t forget to keep those on our sick and shut-in list in your prayers. Brighten someone`s day with a call, card or visit.

FOUNDATION REPAIRS

Essex Free Press

Harrow United Church Submitted by Larry Anderson We invite everyone to join us this Sunday at 10:30 am as we celebrate the beginning of a new, exciting year in 2015. Your presence is a blessing to us and we hope that our church family will be a blessing to you.

In order to recap our church year we need to compile the Annual Report. All groups within the church are asked to have their reports submitted to the office by Wednesday, Jan. 14.

These Days – Daily Devotional Books have arrived for the first quarter of 2015. They are available in the Narthex.

To learn more about the faith community of Harrow United Church, listen to our music and to view Rev. Staples’ weekly messages, please visit our regularly updated website at: www. harrowunited.org.

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Essex United Church Annual reports are due by Jan. 12. There is no Iler service in January.

Congregational meeting after the Sunday, Jan. 18 worship service to deal with the recommendation from the Search Committee.

Keep Jan. 23 to 25 open for our Vision weekend and to look how we will live our call in future years.

We are looking for a tech experienced person to help the pastor in this area.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church Week of prayer for Christian Unity, Sunday, Jan 18; 4 p.m. at the Christian Reformed Church featuring Teen Challenge Choir.

Beef Stew dinner Fri. Jan 9; 5 to 6:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s For the new year we will gather as congregational families to discuss the mission and ministry of our churches.

This month Thank You Bank gifts will be sent to Street Help to support that ministry for the most vulnerable in Windsor ad Essex County We can help them buy the homeless a home.

The church office has reopened.

The Vestry meetings are on Jan. 18 at Trinity and Jan. 25 for St Paul’s.

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Thursday, January 8, 2015

I

Community Hub I 21

Essex Free Press

Maidstone Cross Thank you to all who volunteered to make our Christmas season Masses extra special. Happy New Year everyone!

On Jan.12 at 6pm we need a group to help take down the Christmas decorations in the church.

Our next Pasta Night is on Feb. 11 and all proceeds go towards the Essex Food Bank.

Maidstone K of C will be hosting a Valentine’s Day and 30th Anniversary banquet at St. Mary’s Hall. All parishioners are welcome to attend. Tickets are available up to Jan. 31st by contacting Pat Kettles at 737-1462 or Ken Gignac at 737-6821.

Our sympathy to Julia Mullins on the passing of her sister.

Keep in your prayers all who are shut in, hospitalized or in nursing homes and their care givers.

Cozy Corners - Bethel-Maidstone United submitted by Bev Holland Saturday, Jan. 10 the MacKenzie family asks that you join them for a “Celebration of Jim MacKenzie’s life in the hall at Bethel Maidstone United Church from 1:30-4pm. The family appreciates the support.

On Sunday, Jan. 11 - The Baptism of Jesus. The meditation is My Beloved.

Monday, Jan 12 is the U.C.W. meeting in the hall at 1pm. All ladies of the congregation are welcome to attend.

MASSAGE ThERAPY

Sunday, Jan. 18 is the official Board meeting after soup and sandwiches. in the hall after the service. Your support is appreciated. Thanks!

Door greeters - please sign the list in the Narthex if you would like to add your name to the list of door greeters in 2015. Thank you.

Woodslee Friendship Club Happy New Year! We eagerly return to the card tables, from a short holiday break, on Monday and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00- 3:00, and in the new year, we will be offering Euchre on Friday afternoons, from 12:30-3:30 pm, rather than in the evening. For information, contact Fran McKim at 519-961-9532.

Antioch Christian Ministries Restoration House Walk-in Prayer Clinic - Open: Saturdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sunday, December 21st. service at A.C.M. was a wonderful time of singing and celebrating Jesus. Afterwards family and friends enjoyed a few sweet moments of food and fellowship.

Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!

Congratulations to Ginger and James on the birth of their first Christmas treasure, baby Jonah!

Holy Name of Jesus Church submitted by Therese Lecuyer EDGE: January 21 -New Year Kick Off. Grades 6, 7, 8 7pm-9pm.

QUEST: January 14 - Words, Words, Words. Grades 3, 4, 5 from 6:30-7:45pm.

Steubenville Conference 2015-Limitless. Awesome weekend

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conference with 3000 other youth. Enjoy great speakers, great music and an awesome kick start to your faith. open to all high school aged youth. Registration forms at all the doors.

CWL general meeting will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 7pm.

Executive meets at 6:30pm. New members are always welcome.

CWL is collecting new or gently used sleeping bags and blankets for the month of January for the homeless. Please drop off at designated spot in the Gather Space. Thank you!

K of C Basketball Free throw is coming soon! Watch for information posters found at each entrance to the church. Come out and have fun!

K of C Fish Fry’s are January 9th and 23rd, 4:30 - 7pm in the hall.

God Bless your families and Have a happy, healthy 2015!

Essex Christian Reformed Church submitted by Beverley Van Huizen We would like to extend an invitation to you and your family to attend our Sunday morning worship service beginning at 10:00 am as we welcome Pastor Aaron Thompson, who will lead us in worship. Nursery supervision is provided.

GEMS and Cadets begin Monday, Jan. 12 at 6:30-8:00 pm.

All girls and boys from Grade 1-8 are invited to attend. Come for fun and fellowship as we get to know each other and the Lord through bible studies and games.

Mark your calendar for Jan.30 for our next Movie Night.

Visit us online for service times and directions or just to listen to a sermon or two. www.essexcrc.ca.

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22 I Opinion/Sports

I Thursday, January 8, 2015

Essex Free Press

73’s Double Digit Win Streak ends at 11

His 1962 Pontiac had three bald tires and burned oil

Photo by Laurie Beaten.

Hockey for hospice presenting their earnings from their tournament.

PHOTO: 1962 Pontiac Parisienne in sales brochure

Neil Gillard of Holland Landing, Ontario, writes: Ò Back in the late Ô 60s and early Ô 70s, I owned a 1962 Pontiac. It was a trade-in at Paul Willison Chrysler where I worked. I inquired about it and found it had already been wholesaled to Thora Auto, so I went there and made them an offer and they accepted it, even before it had left Paul WillisonÕ s lot. I think it was a Parisienne but all nameplates had been removed. It looked like a 283 V8 under the hood. It had a chromed glove box and tissue dispenser and a set of gauges mounted below the dashboard. I never thought to look to see who traded it in. Maybe someone reading this will recognize the car from my description. Ò It was a burgundy/maroon colour and it burned oil badly. When accelerating quickly, smoke came out of the steering column and the white headliner was now black and oily. One morning it backfired just as I hit the 401 and caught fire below the carb.

Someone stopped and said they had a fire extinguisher but then couldn’t find it.

Someone else gave me a blanket and I put the fire out. I just replaced a few hoses and drove it to work that day. Ò It had three wide bald tires and one small regular tire on the left rear. Again on the 401, now in wet weather, I suddenly lost control of the car but luckily didnÕ t hit anything. I went right out after that and bought four new tires. Ò I sold it to a fellow named Mike Thiffault, who worked at WillisonÕ s. He took the motor apart and it should have been rebored but he swapped pistons around for the best fit with new piston rings and had new wrist pins installed. He drove it around gently for a few days when completed, then decided to put the pedal to the metal and quickly received a speeding ticket! Ò Mike sold it to Brian, who also worked at WillisonÕ s, and he drove it trouble-free down east and out west. At the time I owned it, I ordered the V8 emblems for the front fenders from Grant Brown Pontiac in Weston and I still have them.Ó In Canada, the 1962 Pontiac came in three series: the budget-conscious StratoChief, the mid-priced Laurentian, and the top-of-the-line Parisienne. A six cylinder was available as well as two V8Õ s: a 283 and a 327. The 327 was the hot one with a 10.5:1 compression ratio, four barrel carb, and dual exhausts. These engines in Canadian Pontiacs at that time were identical to Chevrolet engines.

IÕ m always looking for more stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico. ca or write Bill Sherk, 25 John St., P.O. Box 255, Leamington, Ont. N8H 3W2. Everyone whose story is published in this column will receive a free autographed copy of my book: Ò OLD CAR DETECTIVE FAVOURITE STORIES, 1925 to 1965.Ó

by Garrett Fodor Going into the holiday break, Essex had a road trip and picked up two wins to extend their streak to eight games.

The action resumed on December 27 when Essex traveled to Mooretown.

The game was one of the best in recent weeks with the action going back and fourth. After the first forty minutes, the game was MooretownÕ s, who were leading 3-2. In the third stanza EssexÕ s offense exploded, combining for a three-goal period and the lead. Despite the FlagsÕ last minute goal, Essex held on for a 5-4 win.

For the last game of 2014, Essex hosted the Amherstburg Admirals.

Before the puck was dropped, there was a ceremony at center ice.

Hockey for Hospice was honoured for the great hospitality of the Admirals and the locals, during their tournament. This year alone, Hockey for Hospice raised over $200,000 for our local area.

Like the last contest, this game was a squeaker.

After the first frame things were knotted, 1-1. The game remained deadlocked after the second frame, 2-2, and third showed a 3-3 tally on the scoreboard. In the end, Essex prevailed in a shootout when captain Scott Bromley went fivehole for the winner.

All three of EssexÕ s goals came on the power play. Amherstburg is the most penalized team in the league with 983 minutes of infractions over 32 games. With EssexÕ s win, they clinched first place in the league and earned a

spot in the playoffs.

Essex was back on the road Friday when they took on the Dresden Jr. Kings. Special Teams helped Essex throughout the game. Rookie William Stadder opened the scoring just two minutes in and Essex jumped out to a 2-0 lead after the first period.

This was followed by a scoreless second period and both teams exchanged a goal in the third. Essex prevailed 3-1, making it 11 straight wins for the locals

heading into the barn of their rivals, the Lakeshore Canadiens, on Saturday.

Lakeshore was quick to light the lamp and registered three goals in the first to Essex’s one, which came from grinder, Dan Mainella. The second period was the same.

Lakeshore netted another three to EssexÕ s one to make it 6-2 after two.

ThatÕ s where the scoring ended, breaking EssexÕ s win streak.

Essex Retirees’ Social Club NE EVERYO E!!

M WELCO

Tasting Contest TUESDAY, JAN. 27 AT 12:00 P.M.

6

$ 00

For All The SSoup You Can Eat!

Along with tea or coffee and desserts.

Participants ARE NEEDED to make a large pot of soup. Please call.

32 Russell Street, Essex (Corner of Centre Street & Day Street)

519-776-6689

Essex County 4-H Association

Annual Awards and Sign-Up Night

MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2015

at the Essex Legion in Essex 6:30 to 8:30 pm Come celebrate 4-H achievements and learn about new clubs for 2015.

For further information:

519-723-2230

Membership fee is only $35.00 if paid that night.

Thursday, January 8, 2015

I

Sports I 23

Essex Free Press

Essex teams shine at Hockey for Hospice annual tournament

Pictured is the Championship Essex Ravens Red Wings team. The team went undefeated in five games with a 4-0-1 record bringing home the trophy while raising funds through pledges towards Hospice. Team members are: Kye Cook, Cam Drouillard, Connor DeRyk, Joe Hickson, Eric Jobin, John Paul Lapain, King McGuire, Noah Mavrantzas, Robby Belanger, Ryan Brady, AJ Knight, Luke Wilbee, Ryan Quinlan, Evan Rainsforth, Coaches: Mark McGuire, Jason Rainsforth, Laurie Lapain, and Chris Lapain.

submitted to the EFP The 19th Annual Hockey for Hospice tournament was held over the holidays and raised an impressive $213,000 for the Hospice.

There were 104 teams participating in the threeday event, including ten houseleague teams from the Essex Minor Hockey Association. The EMHA teams contributed $19,535 to the cause.

The tournament was played at three local arenas - the United Communities Credit Union Complex in Amherstburg, Vollmer Recreational Complex in LaSalle, and Tecumseh Arena and Forest Glade Arena in Windsor.

Over three days 221 games of hockey were played with Novice, Atom, PeeWee, Bantam and Atom Girls hockey teams from across Windsor and Essex County, as well as teams from Tilbury and Chatham-Kent, taking to the ice for the cause. Ò The kids who play in this tournament always go above and beyond,Ó said Carol Derbyshire, Executive Director of The Hospice. Ò The effort they put into collecting pledge money and how eager they are to learn about the Hospice and where their pledges are going is just astounding.Ó

The Novice Zekelman Foundation Essex Orange #3 hockey team that went 5-0 during the Hockey for Hospice Tournament and captured the Championship title against Amherstburg by a score of 2-0.

champions over the Essex Blue Jackets by a score of 1-0.

In the Pee Wee Division championship game at Tecumseh Arena, the Essex Red Ravens beat the This year, members of the Amherstburg Admirals Riverside Green Hornets 6-5 in the final. and Essex 73Õ s hockey clubs helped out as honourary In the Bantam Division final game, played in LaSalle, coaches and mentors for the minor hockey players. the Essex Green Machine beat Windsor Powertech 73’s Captain, Scott Bromley said, “We find Hospice Hockey 4-1 for the championship title. to be a good cause and as a team we love being out in For more results, game scores, and statistics on the the community and love that Hospice keeps everything tournament, visit hockeyforhospice.com here locally.Ó Ò The more our team gets involved in the community the better it is for us,Ó noted Admirals Captain Luke Gangnon. Ò We look forward to being around the kids and helping out as much as we can.Ó The tournament finals took place on December 29 and for the first time in tournament history one association won all the championship titles, Essex.

In Amherstburg, the Novice Zekelman Foundation Essex #3 Orange won the championship title over the Amherstburg Hospice Hurricanes, by a score of 2-0.

Pictured is the Championship Essex Bantam “Green Machine” team. The team In the Atom “A” Division final, played at Amherstburg played some strong hockey throughout the tournament while bringing in pledges to Arena, the Essex Ravens Red Wings came out the donate to the Hockey for Hospice cause.

Pictured above is the Championship Pee Wee Essex Red Ravens hockey team who battled back from a 4-0 deficit to beat the Riverside Green Hornets in the final of the Hockey for Hospice Tournament.

ESSEX OPTIMIST RECREATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE

2015 Final Registration Date: Saturday, January 17, 24 & 31

*FINAL REGISTRATION IS JANUARY 31, 2015, AFTER THIS DATE YOU ARE PLACED ON A WAITING LIST FOR AN OPENING IF AVAILABLE

Place: Essex Centre Sports Complex (Shaheen Community Room) Time: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

REGISTRATION FEE

Under 7 & 10

Under 13 & 18

*One Child - $60.00

*One Child - $70.00

*Two Children - $120.00

*Two Children - $140.00

*Three Children - $180.00

*Three Children - $210.00

*Four Children & over - $180.00

*Four Children & over - $210.00

• You can mail registrations / payments by cheque. See website for more info. and address (www.eorsl.com) • Cheques for Registration should be made out to E.O.R.S.L. • NSF Cheques will be charged $25.00 • Bring Birth certificate to Show Proof of age if required

RTS SOCCER STAY, A D R U T SA 15 APRIL 18, 20 ) RMITTING

(WEATHER PE

Ken Knapp Ford.

390 Talbot St. N., Essex www.kenknappford.com

VOLUNTEERS ARE IMPERATIVE TO THE RUNNING OF THIS YEAR’S LEAGUE

• • • •

ALL COACHES FIELD SET-UP CANTEEN HELPERS REFEREES FOR ALL DIVISIONS & LINES PEOPLE

519-776-6447 | 1-800-461-8773 Offers may be cancelled or changed at any time without notice. See Service Advisor for complete details. Applicable taxes and provincial levies not included. Dealer may sell for less. Only available at participating locations. ±In order to receive a local competitor’s advertised price: (i) tires must be purchased and installed at your participating Ford Dealer; (ii) customer must present the competitor’s actual, local advertisement (containing the lower price) which must have been printed within 30 days of the sale; and (iii) the tires being purchased must be the same brand, sidewall, speed and load ratings as shown in the competitive advertisement. Offer only available at participating Ford dealerships. This offer is valid on the cost of the tire only and does not include labour costs, valve stems, mounting, balancing, disposal, and taxes. Offer does not apply to quotes or advertised prices outside of Canada, in eBay advertisements, by tire wholesalers and online tire retailers, or closeout, special order, discontinued, and clearance/liquidation offers. Limited time offer. Offer may be cancelled or changed at any time without prior notice. See your Service Advisor for details. *Rebate offers are manufacturer’s mail-in rebates. Rebates available on select Continental (credit card gift card), General Tire (credit card gift card), Goodyear (credit card gift card), Dunlop (credit card gift card), Hankook, Pirelli, Toyo Tires, Yokohama, Michelin, BF Goodrich and Bridgestone (credit card gift card) tires. Offers are valid on qualifying sets of four tires, purchased and installed at participating locations during the respective promotion periods for each tire brand. Offers are valid on the cost of the tire(s) only and do not include labour costs, valve stems, mounting, balancing, disposal, and taxes. Amount of rebates, start dates and expiration dates vary depending on tire manufacturer. It is the responsibility of the customer to submit the required claim forms and proof of purchase to the relevant tire manufacturer with sufficient postage by the required deadline for that rebate offer. See your Service Advisor for complete details and claim forms. ◊Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Dealer may sell for less. 1Storage term is at the Dealer’s sole discretion, up to a maximum of one year. **Winter Safety Package includes: four (4) winter tires, four (4) tire pressure monitoring sensors, and choice of four (4) steel or aluminum wheels. Some conditions apply. See Dealer for details. Vehicle handling characteristics, tire load index and speed rating may not be the same as factory-supplied all-season tires. Winter tires are meant to be operated during winter conditions and may require a higher cold inflation pressure than all-season tires. Consult your Ford of Canada Dealer for details including applicable warranty coverage. ©2014 Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. All rights reserved.

24 I Sports

Essex Free Press

I Thursday, January 8, 2015

Despite the rain, Classic tournament well attended

by Fred Groves Rain certainly did not

damper the spirits of the dozens of young hockey

players who turned up for the 3-on-3 Winter Classic

on Saturday.

Held at the Essex Centre Sports Complex, the road hockey style tournament was a little challenging for organizers, spectators and players alike, but when it was all over and done, smiles and cheers captured the day. Ò I like the fact that even though itÕ s raining, we get to have fun,Ó said Gage Halpenny.

Playing both forward and defence for the Team Canada peewee side, Halpenny was joined by teammates Joel Morand, Eddy Laroye, Carter Tomkins, Karsen Bovenkamp and brothers Nathan and Brandon Smith, who played net. Ò I like to stop players

from scoring and to win games,Ó said Laroye.

Unlike their Team Canada counterparts who were representing their country at the World Junior Championships, the local version of Team Canada were not quite as successful, still it was a chance to put away the skates and move their favourite game outside. Ò We get to have fun scoring goals,Ó said Morand.

Bovenkamp and Laroye are regular defensive partners when they play on the ice for the Essex Minor Hockey Association Blue peewee team.

While parents huddled under umbrellas, wearing heavy warm gloves and winter boots, those battling for the orange ball between the straw bales were faced with their own challenges. Ò I donÕ t like the weather,Ó admitted Nathan Smith. Ò People are sliding and getting hurt.Ó A total of 32 teams in several different divisions took part in the tournament that was a fundraiser for both the Essex Novice Major Ravens and the Essex Food Bank.