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Vol. 142
A LOOK INSIDE New ‘Sip and Shop’ kicks-off Fun Fest PAGE 2 ______________
Thursday, July 14, 2022
Issue No. 27
Plenty of entertainment, activities packed into 2022 Essex Fun Fest
Sandy Larivee crowned Citizen of the Year for dedication to youths PAGE 3 _______________ Council presented with new Sign By-Law PAGE 6 _______________ Lakeshore’s River Ridge Park officially opens PAGE 9 _______________ Youth talent shines in annual showcase PAGE 11 _______________ Essex Fun Fest hosts car show along Fairview PAGE 22 ______________ & MORE...
Looking For A Good Home
“PEANUT” See Page 5 for adoption info.
by Sylene Argent After a two-year hiatus, the Essex Fun Fest was back in town to deliver a packed schedule of events and activities for all to enjoy over its four-day duration. A little something special was offered to pique the interest of nearly anyone. From the Essex Centre Sports Complex grounds, the Essex Fun Fest kicked off last Thursday evening with the annual, and
popular Youth Talent Showcase and the new Sip ‘N Shop Wine Mixer. This was followed by Friday’s main stage entertainment from The Van Halen Invasion. Saturday’s parade began at Medora Avenue this year, and travelled down to the festival grounds. This year’s parade theme was “Celebrating Year of the Garden.” As they proceeded through the parade route, the floats were judged on overall
appearance, creativity, and originality. First place will win $500, second place will earn $250, and third place will receive $100 for their charities of choice. The Essex Festival Committee will announce the top three float entrants this week. As the parade disembarked, fairgoers were able to check out the many custom, classic, and antique vehicles on display down Fairview Avenue as part of this
year’s car show, before heading into the fairgrounds to shop at the vendor booths, seek out something to eat at the food booths, or try their luck at games or hop on a thrilling ride set up along the carnival midway World’s Finest Shows offered for the event. Saturday’s schedule of events offered demonstrations from Off Kilter equine entertainment, Continued on Page 12
2 I Community Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 14, 2022
New ‘Sip and Shop’ kicks-off Fun Fest
by Garrett Fodor The Essex Fun Fest activities were kicked off on Thursday evening in a new way last week. After a more than a two-year hiatus, the Essex Fun Fest returned last Thursday evening, opening with old favourites, and a new “Sip and Shop” event, which was hosted inside the Bavarian Gardens at the festival fairgrounds. “Since it has been so long, it was easy for the [Essex
Festival] Board to let some activities go and try some new ones,” Katie McGuireBlais said, who is a member of the Festival Committee and sits on the Essex Sip and Shop Committee. “As a Board, we were trying to find ways to bring different kinds of people together, including those who might not otherwise have attended the festival. We want it to engage more with the community. We contacted some local vendors and wineries from Harrow and Colchester and that’s how ‘Sip and Shop’ happened.” McGuire-Blais noted the event happened very quickly, with the early stages beginning in February, and the planning Committee cautiously optimistic. Planning quickly ramped up in the last four-to-six weeks.
Local wines, paired with cheese and other fine snacks, were offered at the event, in addition to live entertainment, including a performance by Essex’s Adam Zanier. While being a part of the Essex Fun Fest, the event also served as a fundraiser for Autism Ontario and Community Living Essex County, with part of the proceeds from each ticket sold going to the charities, which helped to partner and sell advance tickets to the event. “I think I can say the entire Board was happy with turnout from the event,” McGuire-Blais commented. “It turned out to be a great event for everyone of age, young and old. We were extremely
Continued on Page 5
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Thursday, July 14, 2022 I
Community I 3
Essex Free Press
Sandy Larivee crowned Citizen of the Year for dedication to youths
Members of the Essex Citizen of the Year Committee: Tom Bonneau of the Holy Name Knights of Columbus (#3305), Jim Wallace of the Rotary Club of Essex, and Councillor Morley Bowman of Heritage Essex (far right), announced Sandy Larivee was selected as the 2022 Essex Citizen of the Year on Saturday evening, before the Essex Fun Fest’s main stage entertainment took place.
by Sylene Argent For the past 25-years, Sandy Larivee and her husband, Ron, have celebrated their anniversary at the Essex Fun Fest, enjoying a night of food, entertainment, and fun. For Larivee, the annual anniversary tradition was going to plan as usual on Saturday evening, as she was ready to take in the main stage entertainment, until she was surprised to tears to learn she had been selected as the 2022 Essex Citizen of the Year. A selection committee comprised of the Rotary Club of Essex, the Knights of Columbus at Holy Name of Jesus (Council #3305), the Essex Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 201), and Heritage Essex organize the recognition program every year as
a way to honour a local citizen who gives back to the community through volunteerism. Larivee has devoted many years to supporting the Essex Fun Fest, starting as a committee member in 1992. She is also a long-time member of the Essex Optimist Club, and just finished a three-year term on the International Board of Directors for Optimist International and is still the Governance Committee Chairperson for Optimist International She has also spent many years helping youths grow into mature, community-minded adults as the Executive Director of the Essex Youth Centre, which she has done as a volunteer since it closed sevenyears ago. Work began on
creating the Essex Youth Centre facility on January 1, 1998. It was officially opened in May 1999. After its closure, it did reopen in 2017 in a modified way. “I still keep it going. It is about the kids,” she said. Still shocked to be named the 2022 Essex Citizen of the Year, Larivee said it has been an honour to volunteer in the community, especially with youth activities and organizations. The Optimist Club of Essex, she said, is an important part of the community,
and it goes beyond its moto of “Bringing out the Best in Kids,” to also bring out the best in the community and of the volunteers themselves. Instead of speaking of her years of service to the community, she took the opportunity to speak about the importance of getting involved. In volunteering, there is satisfaction in not only doing something to benefit the community, but one gets self satisfaction for doing those good deeds, as well. “In this community, with the pandemic, our kids need something to happen for them. They need to have safe activities,” she said, noting the Essex Optimist Club is still operational, but parents are needed to get involved to help out. The more volunteers, the less work there is for those willing to lend a hand. Larivee’s commitment to volunteering is so strong, she nearly missed the Citizen of the Year announcement, and her regular anniversary plans. She was supposed to be supporting a Euchre tournament, but was told she was needed to represent the Optimist Club at a special event at the Fun Fest to ensure she would be onsite. Those wanting to get involved with the Essex Optimist Club are urged to email her at sandylarivee@gmail. com. Typically, the Essex Citizen of the Year Committee hosts a banquet in the fall to recognize the Citizen of the Year and raise funds for Heritage Essex, which maintains the historic Essex Railway Station. The Essex Citizen of the Year program has been ongoing since 1978.
4 I Opinion Essex Free Press
Editorial &Opinion Serving Essex and the surrounding communities since 1896.
Published Thursdays as an independent weekly newspaper, owned and operated by The Essex Voice Limited. A London Publishing Corporation Publication LIMITED OFFICE HOURS: Our office is closed to the public, currently. If you need to schedule an appointment, please call the office. COVID protocols in place. OUR STAFF Sandy Kennedy - Office Jessica Azar - Graphic Design / Social Media / Production Lana Warwick - Graphic Design Greg Belchuk - Advertising Sales Sylene Argent - Editor/News Reporter Shelley Beaudoin - Graphic Design / Production / Distribution
CIRCULATION The Essex Free Press is a publication with controlled circulation of 11,000. Also, it can be read online at: issuu.com/ essexfreepress
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ARCHIVES The Essex Free Press has been digitized from 1895 to 1968 and is fully searchable at http://ink.ourontario.ca.
OPINION & COMMENT
I Thursday, July 14, 2022
Howling at the Moon ••• Comment by Sylene Argent ••• Thank you, Fun Fest volunteers
For four-days last week, the community could head on down to the Essex Centre Sports Complex grounds to enjoy all the activities planned for this year’s Essex Fun Fest. And like any good festival, the Essex Fun Fest offered an array of activities, so there was something onsite sure to appeal to everyone. Of course, the schedule of events changes slightly, year-to-year, to improve what is offered and provide something new. Planning a four-day event is no small feat, even for a committee of people working together to achieve the same goal; an outstanding event for community members to enjoy. There are many moving parts to the Essex Fun Fest, and that means it takes a lot of people to roll up their sleeves to get involved, even if that is for just a few hours during one of the days the festival is offered. Fortunately, the temperatures didn’t crank up too high this year, but the Essex Fun Fest is held primarily on asphalt, and that makes it hot
for those volunteers and committee members who have been running around all day, trying their best to ensure everything goes off without a hitch. The Essex Festival Committee, which executes the Essex Fun Fest, is a small group, which makes planning the event a lot of work for a small handful of people. The more people who are willing to lend a hand, means less work for everyone, and maybe even provide the committee with time to get creative and plan new features. Volunteers, as I always say, are worth their weight in gold. But, unfortunately, many willing to get involved get burnout as there is so much work to go around. If anyone has some free time and great ideas, I recommend putting your name forward to become an Essex Festival Committee member, or perhaps join another Town of Essex committee, to provide your expertise and time to a worthy matter. As we quickly approach the fall Essex Municipal Election, the new
Council will look to community members to put their names forward to volunteer on their list of important committees. Those with the energy, time, creativity, and willingness to get involved are urged to put their name forward. Some of the committees work to plan events or projects to benefit the town, while others deal with matters for the Town of Essex. Here is a list of committee to consider: Accessibility Advisory Committee; Arts, Culture and Tourism (ACT) Committee; CoAn Park Committee; Committee of Adjustment; Communities in Bloom (CIB) Committee; Drainage Board; Essex Centre Business Improvement Area (BIA) Board of Management; Essex Festival Committee; Essex Police Services Board; Heritage Committee; Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee; Property Standards Committee. More information about each committee and what is expected of members is available at essex.ca
The opinions expressed on these pages are those of their original authors and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Essex Free Press, its Editor or Publisher.
LETTER POLICY The Essex Free Press welcomes letters to the editor on topics of interest to our readers. Letters should be typed or neatly handwritten and present the issues as clearly as possible in 300 words or less. We reserve the right to edit for length, grammar, and legal considerations. All letters must contain the name, address, and daytime phone number of the writer for verification purposes. Anonymous letters will not be considered for publication. If you have a legitimate concern and cannot sign your name to a letter, please contact the editor to discuss alternative means of handling the issue.
ADVERTISING Advertising is accepted on the condition that, in the event of an error, the portion of the ad occupied by the error, will not be charged for, but the balance will be paid at the usual rate. It is the responsibility of the advertiser to check an ad on first publication, and the publisher accepts no responsibility for errors in multiple insertions. The Essex Free Press reserves the right to reject or edit any advertisement likely to offend community standards. Display Advertising Deadline: Friday at 2:00 pm
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Letter to the Editor Sharing, Caring, Growing Together. That is the vision of the Essex Community Garden. Community Gardens are gaining in popularity as it is a unique way to bring community partners together to collectively manage a garden. The vision of the Essex Community Garden is to provide a communal space in which members can plant, grow, and harvest a variety of vegetables, flowers, and fruits. It is a great opportunity to share and a good way to
OFA viewpoint
bring the community together. Neighbouring communities, including Colchester, have already proven that this idea is a winner. We are close to having a location and hoping to gain support from the Town of Essex. Any organization or individuals in Essex who are interested can contact Fred Groves at fredgrovesgrover54@ hotmail.com
Enjoy Ontario’s vibrant summer scenery – from a distance by Drew Spoelstra and Mark Reusser, Vice Presidents, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
Ontario boasts a picturesque landscape with a wide range of elements from rolling hills and waterfronts to diverse croplands, endless horizons, and everything in between. Especially in the summer season, it is easier for us to get out and enjoy everything the outdoors has to offer. There are plenty of beautiful scenes to look at and activities to enjoy. Whether snapping a photo of a vibrant sunflower or canola field or riding your ATV on a trail, it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings and who’s property you are entering. Although farmland appears to be an open and vacant lot, it is private property and entering without permission is considered trespassing. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) wants to remind Ontarians
that farmers work hard to maintain this landscape and use it to grow and raise healthy crops and livestock to feed the world. It is important to respect this process and avoid disrupting the growth of crops or livestock at a farmers’ expense. Trespassing on private property is an ongoing concern for Ontario farmers and is unfortunately heightened during the summer season. Several incidents of trespass have taken place across the province recently, including instances involving social media selfies in canola fields in the Dufferin region. On one side, travellers and tourists are capturing the beauty and essence of a canola field in the countryside to share on their
Continued on Page 5
Thursday, July 14, 2022 I
Opinion / Community I 5
Essex Free Press
Viewpoint - OFA Instagram account. But on the flip side, a farmer is under heightened stress with visitors entering private property, causing potential damage to crops, and creating a liability on the farmer should any accident occur while snapping a picture on farm property. In the recent Dufferin situation, an estimated cost of $2,000 was assessed in damages that the farmer will likely have to cover out of their own pocket. It’s a hefty price to pay. In the Niagara region, trespassers went as far as releasing cattle from a barn which not only poses a risk to the public with stray cattle wandering the roads, but also results in biosecurity and animal welfare issues. Additional reports of trespassing appear on social media every day, resulting in the OPP Central Region posting on Twitter, “It is NOT a right to enter a field to get a perfect photo.” The impact trespassing has on farmers and their business is far greater than the offenders likely intend. However, that doesn’t make it acceptable. Mentally and financially, trespass can take a large toll. In addition to the existing stressors of uncontrollable elements in farming, such as weather, disease outbreaks, and equipment breakdowns, there is the unsettling fear that animals or crops might not be safe, even with an adequate amount of signage indicating farmland and private property. To put things into perspective, this situation compares to a group of strangers entering a private backyard and taking a closer look at your garden or flowerbed. It’s unsettling and anxious to have strangers in a private area they shouldn’t be. In some cases, the field or barn that is being trespassed is adjacent to the home of farmers and their families. If an invitation hasn’t been extended to enter private property, there should be no assumption that it’s permissible. The result of trespassing can also cause financial strain based on the damage to crops, animal health, or fences protecting these crops and livestock. By law, a field is considered private property even in the absence of
Continued from Page 4
signage, which people tend to disregard when they want to grab a photo. Entering a field or a livestock sanction also increases biosecurity risks, threatening the health off crops and livestock. Encountering a diseased species prior to entering a field of a healthy crop or a barn with healthy livestock, can expose the entire population, threatening their viability, especially at times when disease pressure is high. Trespass can also turn into a dangerous situation very quickly if you aren’t aware of your surroundings – especially on a farm. After pesticides are sprayed, there is a re-entry period that you must wait to enter the field again for safety. Strangers entering the field won’t be aware of this re-entry period without communicating with the farmer first. A bull could be among cattle released from a barn which also poses a serious trampling risk. Fines and penalties for trespass violations can be handed out by law enforcement under the Trespass to Property Act or the Security from Trespass and Protecting Food Safety Act. As farmers, we are more than happy to share the beauty of our farms and the agriculture sector with everyone, but please be respectful and enjoy the picturesque scenery from a distance. It’s important to remember that what might appear to be a pretty picture can be highly disruptive and lead to consequences for both the farmer and the photographer. Farmers work hard to produce food, fibre, and fuel for all Ontarians to enjoy, and it is important to remember to respect that objective.
Hearing tests, hearing aids, wax removal, and speech therapy
‘ and Shop’ kicks-off ‘Sip Fun Fest... Continued from Page 3
h happy with the turnout and it was a great way to sshowcase some of the local businesses.” Continuing on through the weekend, the Essex BIA had shops along main street partake in the annual B ssidewalk sale, as well as selling refreshments and ssnacks. A crowd pleaser, following the annual parade ddown Talbot Street. Concluding the night, the Essex Centre BIA sponsored the firework display on Saturday C nnight. “We’re excited to be back and be able to participate aand partner with the Fun Fest,” McGuire-Blais said, who iis also an Essex BIA Committee Board member. “It’s a way for businesses to say ‘thank you’ to the community w ffor supporting them, especially through COVID. We aas the BIA are very excited for what’s coming and are hhappy to be back in the community and start doing more aactivities again.” McGuire-Blais was grateful for the support of the pparticipating businesses and the community throughout tthe weekend and over the course of the last two-years.
Pet Of The Week: Peanut Peanut has been in a home with 4 adults, and one young child, and she was friendly, but skittish with all in the home. She’s not big on playing and would love a quiet, pet-free home that is ok with her introvert ways. Peanut loves her snacks. She loves to keep her nails well manicured, so some tall cat furniture is a must to keep her on the right track! What do you think? Can she settle into your home? The Windsor-Essex County Humane Society shelter is at 1375 Provincial Rd., Windsor. Ph: 519-966-5751. To start the adoption process online, please go to: windsorhumane.org/adoptable-animals
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6 I News Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 14, 2022
Council presented with new Sign By-Law by Sylene Argent On Monday, July 4, Essex Council hosted a public meeting regarding a new Sign By-law for the Town of Essex. The Town’s current Sign By-Law was established in 2015 to address concerns, while providing businesses and institutions with a variety of options for identification and messaging. It also recognized new industry trends in signage, like electronic media signs and projecting signs, and also served as the first comprehensive Sign By-Law for the entire amalgamated Town of Essex. The purpose of the revamp is to ensure the document is more user-friendly and to provide more clarity to
assist with by-law enforcement and the courts, the Report to Council on the matter notes. This includes limitations on the brightness of an electronic media sign. A schedule was also added to deal with billboards. The document also states when a permit is required for signage, and when it is not. It is also meant to address issues stemming from the implantation of the original By-Law, since its adoption, such as stating when an illuminated sign is permitted or not, setting out when sign permits are required, removing election sign regulations due to the recent adoption of the Town of Essex Election Sign By-law, and establishing technical standards for electronic
media signs. Jeff Watson, Policy Planner for the Town of Essex, explained signs are regulated for the benefit of the community’s image. Institutions want to make themselves seen, Watson said. “At the same time, we try to [strike] a balance between what their needs are and the overall community image of the Town and our streetscapes.” Unrestricted signs create negative visual impact and can cause sign pollution. A driver, he said, has around four-seconds to read
Continued on Page 7
Thursday, July 14, 2022 I
Community / News I 7
Essex Free Press
Jakob Skrzypa served as segment producer for ‘The Challenge: USA’ -launched Kickstarter campaign for ‘Vampire Zombies…From Space!’
submitted to EFP Local filmmaker Jakob Skrzypa was proud to serve as a segment producer for the CBS reality series “The Challenge: USA,” which was shot earlier this year in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The series premiered on July 6, and new episodes will continue to air every Wednesday at 9:30pm on CBS. This is Skrzypa’s second season producing for “The Challenge’’ franchise. Last year, he produced the third season of The Challenge: All Stars in Panama. He urges those who love to get into a good series to give the show a watch. In addition, his 1950s sci-fi spoof “Vampire Zombies…From Space!” is going into production in early August and the filmmaking team has launched its Kickstarter campaign. “If you put the films of Mel Brooks, Ed Wood, and the humour of South Park into a blender, you’d get ‘Vampire Zombies…From Space!” Skrzypa explained. “It is an over-the-top comedy feature that pays homage to, and satirizes, science fiction and horror films from the past.” In the plot, from the depths of space, Dracula has devised his most dastardly plan yet, turning the residents
of a small American town into his personal army of vampire zombies. A motley crew consisting of a grizzled detective, hot-shot rookie cop, chain-smoking greaser, and determined young woman band together to save the world. The film will be directed and produced by Mike Stasko, whose past films have played in festivals around the world and have featured the likes of Fred Willard (Anchorman, Best in Show), Ray Wise (Twin Peaks, Robocop), Colin Mochrie (Whose Line is it Anyway?), Tom Cavanaugh (The Flash), Graham Greene (Dances with Wolves), and Kevin McDonald (The Kids in the Hall, That ‘70s Show). The film is co-written and co-produced by Fun Uncle comedy sketch duo’s Skrzypa, who has served as a producer for MTV/Paramount’s The Challenge, has worked on Survivor, Big Brother Canada, Nathan for You, and as a remote editor for Troma entertainment. “We have so many amazing Windsor filmmakers and artists working on this project, it’s going to be a huge group effort. Any support we can get through this Kickstarter campaign will be going directly back into the community, fostering our local artists,” Director Stasko said.
Council presented with new Sign By-Law... signs as they pass. If there are a plethora of signs to look at, it is a disservice to the business as it becomes virtually impossible to
Continued from Page 6
distinguish one from the other. “It is just a jumble of signage,” he said. Council will still
have the ability to grant approval, by Site Specific By-Law, of a sign not permitted by the Sign Bylaw, Watson noted. The By-Law will be submitted to Council for formal approval at the July 18 Council meeting. Part of this process includes a short-form wording section, Watson said, which deals with fines. He added the new By-Law will put the onus on not just sign owners, but the providers as well. If someone repeatedly violates the By-Law, the Town will have the right to ticket. The short-form wording section will be submitted to the courts for approval, and notice of approval will be given at that time. That could take as much as four-months to complete. There is no appeal for a sign by-law as it is done under the Municipal Act.
“The film is a great mix of modern raunchy comedy and classic old school cinema,” Skrzypa, a writer on the film, said. The film has secured funding, but the filmmakers have launched a Kickstarter campaign to help round out the budget and make sure it’s filled with gruesome practical effects, b-movie miniatures, and gut-busting laughs. The Kickstarter campaign starts July 5th and runs for 30 days. Log onto https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ vampirezombies/vampire-zombies-movie to learn more.
8 I News / Community / Opinion Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 14, 2022
Leamington OPP investigating Essex Firemen’s Association draws 50/50 winner fatal fire - body located
submitted to EFP On Friday, July 8, 2022, at approximately 11:52 p.m., the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Leamington Detachment and Leamington Fire Department responded to a fire located in the 300 block of Erie Street South, in the Municipality of Leamington. The OPP investigation revealed a body was located inside the residence that was damaged by the fire. Essex County OPP Crime Unit and OPP Forensic Identification Services (FIS) is assisting the Office of the Chief Coroner and members from the office of the Ontario Fire Marshall (OFM) who are continuing to investigate this incident. Essex County OPP is requesting anyone
who was in the area of Erie Street South and Robson Road between the hours of 10:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. on Friday July 8 and who may have witnessed anything or have any dashcam or security camera footage to call the Essex County OPP Crime Unit at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 (TIPS) or leave an anonymous online message at www.catchcrooks. com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000. As the investigation is ongoing, there will be a continued police presence in the area. Further updates will be provided when new information becomes available.
OFA - There’s a difference between private and farm railway crossings – and it matters by Jackie KellyPemberton, Director, Ontario Federation of
Agriculture Three years ago, Transport Canada updated
its Grade Cross Regulationss with new amendmentss that all public and privatee railway crossings in Canadaa must follow. The goal is too improve safety by bringingg sightlines and grade levelss into compliance with thee new standards. Private railwayy crossings are those wheree there is no public use off the crossing, and the samee individual or farm businesss owns the land on both sidess of the tracks. The crossingss were put in by the raill company when the liness were originally built so thatt landowners wouldn’t be cutt off from their own land byy the rail line. There are a significantt number of farm propertiess across the province thatt have an active railwayy Continued on Page 21
Public Notice of Pesticide Use The Corporation of the Town of Essex intends to control weeds on municipal bridges and urban curbs and walkways within the Town of Essex. On areas adjacent to sidewalks and /or pedestrian areas the Town will be treating urban curbs using ECOCLEAR Fast Acting Weed and Grass Killer which contains acetic acid 25% w/v 250 g/l (Registration # 25528) registered under the PEST CONTROL PRODUCTS ACT (CANADA) for AXXE Broad Spectrum Herbicide which contains the active ingredient Ammonium Salt of Fatty Acid 36% (Registration #32719). All other curbs and bridges using Factor 540, Liquid Herbicide, Registration No. 27988, containing the active ingredient glyphosate (present as potassium salt) under the Pest Control Products Act (Canada). Commencing July 2022 and ending September 2022. For further information please contact: Rodney Klie Manager of Parks and Facilities 60 Fairview Avenue West Essex ON N8M-1Y1 519-776-7336 ext. 1302 Collect calls accepted
Essex Firemen’s Association members Tom Bonneau and Brandon Chartier congratulate 50/50 winner, Robert Archambault (pictured centre). The winning ticket was drawn on the Fun Fest main entertainment stage on Saturday evening.
by Sylene Argent Before the Essex Citizen of the Year was announced and Eric Ethridge took the spotlight as Saturday’s entertainment during the Fun Fest, the winning ticket for the Essex Firemen’s Association 50/50 raffle was drawn on the main stage. Councillor Morley Bowman was asked to draw the winning ticket from a drum before fairgoers. The winning ticket belonged to Robert Archambault, a firefighter with Essex Fire & Rescue for 25-years. Thanks to the generosity and support of the community, the 50/50 raffle raised $11,650, earning Archambault and the Essex Firemen’s Association each $5,825. The Essex Firemen’s Association will use its funds to upgrade Sparky’s Safety Park in Tulley Meadows. The interactive signage, containing fire safety messages, will be
replaced using the funds raised through the 50/50 draw. So will the poles and framing. Support from local businesses will also be sought for the project. It is estimated the work will be completed next summer. The funds will also go towards restoring the 1944 Dodge Bickle Seagrave pumper fire truck, which
the Association has owned since the late ‘80s. Unit 160 is the last known piece of fire apparatus that was in service during the 1980 Valentine’s Day explosion. Archambault said he plans to invest his winnings wisely and would buy fellow firefighters onsite at the Essex Fun Fest on Saturday evening dinner to celebrate.
Annual
BUTTERFLY DAY at Maidstone Museum Friday, July 29, 2022 • 10am-12pm Learn how we can help these beautiful pollinators survive as they are so important to our eco system. Includes: Check out our metamorphous Butterfly Net Cost: Butterfly House! Activity Book Native Garden Tour Craft and Snack
$
10
Please pre-register i t By B July J l 27
Call:
519-819-5318
www.maidstonemuseum.com 1093 Puce Road (Cty Rd 25), Essex
OPEN TUES. - SAT. 10am - 4pm
Thursday, July 14, 2022 I
Community I 9
Essex Free Press
Lakeshore’s River Ridge Park officially opens
the park include a splash pad, washroom and change room facilities, shade structures, exercise equipment, new lighting, parking area, pickleball courts, and landscaping. “With schools out, it’s a great time to reveal the new and improved River Ridge Park,” Mayor Bain, said. “This park is the perfect addition to a growing area. It will
serve as a gathering place for community members of all ages to enjoy the outdoors and cool off at the splash pad.” River Ridge Park is classified as a Community Park in the Lakeshore Parks & Recreation Master Plan. The total construction cost for the park improvement was $2.4 million. The expanded park
will serve residents in one of the fastest-growing areas in Lakeshore and Southwestern Ontario, as well as two local schools and the Ontario Early Years Centre. River Ridge Park offers accessible amenities for all ages, including a splash pad for
kids, and a walking trail with exercise equipment for adults. Located next to a multi-use trail, which provides pedestrianfriendly access, River Ridge Park connects with the regional trail system and Lakeshore’s other parks.
SUNDAY, JULY 24, 2022
submitted to EFP The Municipality of Lakeshore opened the new and improved River Ridge Park on Thursday of last week, with Mayor Tom Bain and Council members on hand officially cutting the ribbon.
River Ridge Park is located on Oakwood Avenue, between Lakeshore Discovery Public School and St. Anne Catholic Secondary School. New amenities at
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10 I Community Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 14, 2022
Kingsville opens streets for Saturday evening summer fun
by Sylene Argent On Saturday, Main Street, from Queen to Spruce, and Division Street, from King to Pearl, were closed to traffic to host the second session of Open Streets in Downtown Kingsville of 2022. Between 4pm and 10:30pm, a section of downtown Kingsville transforms into a sizzling Saturday evening summer festival, as businesses are able to expand their patios, vendors set up to
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sell wares, and plenty of family-friendly activities are held right on the street. In addition, the Kingsville Music Society hosts a free outdoor concert and the Arts Society of Kingsville hosts family activities at the Carnegie Parkette. Constance Budd, a member with the Art Society of Kingsville, said this group took over space at the Kingsville Carnegie Library around a year ago. Since then, a new art
exhibit has been displayed around every three-weeks. The local gallery has become a popular place for artists to showcase their pieces as exhibits are booked solid for the rest of this year and well into 2023, she said. She added the group also displays the works of local authors. In addition to hosting family art-related activities during Open Streets in Downtown Kingsville, the Art Society of Kingsville also offers other activities, such as Friday Night Paint Nights and Creative 55+ programming through art workshops and afternoon drop-in sessions. Open Streets in Downtown Kingsville officially kicked-off on July 2 and will continue to take place on Saturday evenings until September 3. These events are dependent on good weather. More information on Kingsville Open Streets can be found on the town website: www.kingsville. ca.
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We offer laser engraving, embroidery, sublimation and screen-printing. We specialize in: • Official home of Essex 73’s Fanwear • Custom Sports Wear • Corporate Wear • Screen Printing • Embroidery • Trophies, Medals, and Plaques • Skate Sharpening • Tape, Laces, and Sports Accessories • Promotional Items Follow us on Facebook & Instagram accuratecreations.net accuratesport@gmail.com
ACCURATE CREATIONS 39 Talbot Street North, Essex Store Hours: Tues - Fri, 10am - 5pm, Saturday, 9am - 1pm, Sunday & Monday - Closed
Thursday, July 14, 2022 I
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Essex Free Press
Youth talent shines in annual showcase
by Sylene Argent Talented youth and youngsters were encourage to perform in the Essex Fun Fest’s Youth Talent Showcase, which took place on Thursday evening, essentially kicking-off the entertainment offered over the four-day event. This year’s Youth Talent Showcase offered two divisions – the Junior Division for ages 4-8 and
the Senior Division for ages 9-12, providing more opportunity for young, local talent to shine. Those who wanted to perform at this year’s Essex Fun Fest had to sign-up early as there was a limit of seven spaces available per each category. Those who participated in this year’s showcase
Continued on Page 23
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12 I Community Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 14, 2022
Plenty of entertainment, activities packed into 2022 Essex Fun Fest... Continued from Front Page
performances from Jangles the Clown, the announcement of the 2022 Essex Citizen of the Year award, and main stage entertainment from Canadian country music artist, Eric Ethridge. Essex Festival Committee CoChairperson, Councillor Joe Garon, was
pleased to note around 1500 individuals attended Saturday’s main concert performance, before the fireworks display closed out the evening. Sunday’s festivities offered an interdenominational church service at the Heritage Gardens Park, which Harrow United Church’s Pastor Darrow Woods led, the annual watermelon eating contest, Roberto the Painfully Mediocre Magician, Border City Wrestling, and a performance from Just Heart, a tribute to sisters of rock, Ann and Nancy Wilson. Continued on Page 13
Photo submitted by Lia Bondy - Hanna and Katy enjoy the midway rides at the Essex Fun Fest.
Thursday, July 14, 2022 I
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Essex Free Press
Plenty of entertainment, activities packed into 2022 Essex Fun Fest... Continued from Page 12
The Essex Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 201) sponsored Sunday’s horseshoe tournament, with the winning team being Lionel Ouellette and Rudy Wrey. Second place was earned by Russ McLean and Chad Grey, third place went to Mike Neals and Mike Spence, and Fourth Place was earned by Kenny Loucks and Tom Long. T h r o u g h o u t the weekend, other entertainment included demonstrations from the Craz-E-Crew Stunt Team, sing-a-longs with Enchanted Adventures, and fun in the Kids’ Zone. Musical performances across the four-day festival included appearances from Photo submitted by Laurine Sheeler - Windsor, Ontario
Photo submitted by Suzanne Allison, Essex Ontario - The Essex Fun Fest Horseshoe competition, sponsored by the Essex Legion Br. 201.
Continued on Page 15
14 I Ad Feature Essex Free Press
THE ART OF THE CRAFT
HOCKLEYBEER.CA
I Thursday, July 14, 2022
Thursday, July 14, 2022 I
Community / News I 15
Essex Free Press
Plenty of entertainment, activities packed into 2022 Essex Fun Fest... Continued from Page 12
submitted to EFP Here are the highlights of the Tecumseh Town Council meetings, held electronically, on June 28, 2022: Public Council Meetings: 5p.m. Public Meeting: Council held a public meeting to hear public comment on the draft amending by-law for Development Charges. The update is required to bring the current Development Charges (DC) By-law into conformity with changes to theDevelopment Charges Act. The Town retained Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. to conduct the required update study, which was presented to Council tonight. DCs are collected to support capital costs associated with residential and nonresidential growth within a municipality. Council will consider the changes to the Town’s DC By-law at their meeting of July 26, 2022. 6p.m. Public Meeting: Council held a public meeting to hear public comment on a Zoning By-law amendment application for property on the southwest corner of Lesperance Road and Dillon Drive. The application would rezone the property to allow for the construction of a residential development consisting of four
Photo (above) submitted by Suzanne Allison, Essex Ontario
“Broken Silence,” “The Formula,” “Gritty Angels Band,” “Exit 31,” and “No Dress Code.” In speaking to vendors, representatives from World’s Finest Shows, and seeing the crowds onsite over the duration of the four-day festival, Garon suspects attendance was good, possibly even record-breaking. “We were quite pleased with how everything turned out, and with the weather,” Garon said on behalf of his planning committee. Every year, the Essex Festival Committee tries to make improvements to make the experience even
Town of Tecumseh - Council notes highlights - June 28
2.5-storey, six-unit dwellings, for a total of 24 units. Regular Meeting of Council: Update from Essex Region Conservation Authority: The Essex Region Conservation Authority provided an update to Council on the region’s source water protection program. The presentation offers an overview of progress made at various levels to improve source water protection. Essex Region is progressing well towards implementing measures to protect the source of municipal drinking water. Rail Safety Week: Council agreed to support the proclamation of Rail Safety Week, from September 19 to 25, 2022. The purpose of the Week is to increase communities’ awareness of rail-related safety, and to help residents understand the steps they can take to reduce avoidable deaths, injuries, and damage related to rail incidents. Right to Disconnect Policy: Council reviewed a report on the proposed new Right to Disconnect Policy for Town of Tecumseh employees.
Continued on Page 17
DAIKIN A/C better than it was the year before. Some of those changes this year included offering some onsite parking, adding shade tents in the food court, and moving the main stage
area onto grass to help keep concertgoers cooler. The new Sip ‘N Shop event, Garon added, was well received, and he sees opportunity for it to continue on and even expand. “We try to offer something for everybody,” Garon added. In the future, he said the Committee will look to add more entertainment for teens. *PLEASE visit online for additional photos: www.essexfreepress.com or social media.
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16 I Classifieds
Essex Free Press
Classifi Classi fieds
PLACING A CLASSIFIED AD: Classified ads can be submitted in person, by phone or fax or email from Mon. to Thurs. 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. All classified and personal ads require payment, prior to print. We accept Visa | MasterCard | Debit | Cash | Cheque. CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS TUESDAY BY 10:00 AM
Phone 519.776.4268
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FARMING
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FARMING
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FOR SALE - Laying hens (10-months old) - Good layers, large bown eggs. Hay second cut & third cut - Good quality, stored inside barn. Large brown eggs - Fresh and natural free-range $3.00 a dozen. Call: 519-562-0113.
KENNETH YARDWORKS Summer Clean-Up. Trees, bushes, trimmed or removed. Sod, mulch, eavestrough cleaning and repairs, power washing. Loads to the dump. Fully licensed & insured. Free estimates. Call Kenneth: 519-982-0362. 1-tfn _____________________
_____________________ WANTED Farm Land to Rent Cash or Share Crop Call Jeff Siefker (cell) 519-796-1240 or (home) 519-776-9501. 1-t
27-2t
COMBINE FOR SALE - Case International 1660 4wh. drv. Call: 519-903-1117.
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25-3t
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_____________________ FARMLAND FOR SALE - 47 acres tiled. Conditional to excess dwelling severance. (You can not building a house on this property). Asking $675,000.00. 26-1t* Call: 519-551-4537.
SERVICES
MARTY’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIRS - Tune-ups, repairs, & service on snowblowers, riding lawn mowers, chainsaws, & more! 519-733-0986, (c) 519-965-5918. 1-tf
Sell It! Find it! Rent It! Buy It! In The Classifieds 519-776-4268 _______________________________________________
HELP WANTED
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Election Employment Opportunities Interested in helping out during the 2022 Municipal Election? The Town of Essex is seeking election workers to facilitate voting in the 2022 Municipal Election. Check out the available opportunities and apply online at: elections.essex.ca Application period closes August 2022
SERVICES
FOR SALE
_____________________ FOR SALE Early 1940 Ford Ferguson Tractor & Blade. Bolens 25” snowblower. 1953 Farmhall Super C with wide front end (needs overhauling). Call Bill 51926-1t* 975-0819. _____________________
HELP WANTED
_____________________ HELP WANTED: Greenhouse and Packing line Labour. General greenhouse labour, duties include pruning, picking, planting and cleaning of greenhouse. Packing line labour, duties include inspecting, weighing and packing produce on assembly line. Lifting, bending and standing is required. Must be able to work all shifts. Rural area. No public transportation available. No specific education required. Experience is an asset. Rate of pay- $15.00. To apply please email: Lindsay@policellafarms. com Or Mail to Domric International, PO 1-tfn Box 218, Ruthven ON N0P 2G0. _____________________ HIRING! LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE and LANDSCAPE LABOURERS, $18/hour. Experience necessary. Fax your resume to (519) 723-2336 or email to quinlaninc@ kelcom.igs.net 1-1tf
www.essexfreepress.com
Email: contact@essexfreepress.com
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HELP WANTED
WANTED _____________________ Cash for GOLD, SILVER JEWELRY + All COINS, FREE ESTIMATES. Saturday, July 16, 9am-3pm. Heritage Village Flea Market + Sportsman Show. BOOTH #1 in the main hall. Buying + Selling ALL Gold +Silver JEWELRY, even some Costume Any Gold (even teeth), OLD COINS, Canada, USA, World War Costume Jewelry, War Medals, Windup Watches Mintsets, Pocket watches, Stamp collections. House Calls also available. Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 54 years Exp. 519818-1805. 27-1t _____________________ CASH PAID for scrap cars and trucks. Free removal. Please phone: 519-776-1361 or_____________________ 519-791-5046. 1-tfn
REAL ESTATE
_____________________ Buying or selling a farm? Do you know the right questions and answers? Farm Experienced Realtor Carl Idzinski, Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty - Brokerage. 519-817-8891. 1-tt _____________________
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YARD SALE
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LARGE YARD / ESTATE SALE: Saturday & Sunday, July 16 (9-4) & 17 (9-2) Large selection of household and decorative items, quality books, framed artwork, furniture, workshop tools, yard & garden tools, hunting, fishing, outdoor gear, and some collectable/vintage items. Men’s, size large (tall) clothing, footwear, sportswear, and hunting gear. 2911 County Road 20, Amherstburg (just west of Big Creek). Everything MUST be sold. _____________________
ESTATE SALE 1493 Cty. Rd. 46, Woodslee, Sat. & Sun., July 16 & 17, 9am-2pm. Shelley fine bone china, elec. lift chair, furniture, and many misc. household items.
CASH PAID for antiques, costume jewellery, furniture, gold, sterling, coins, tools, complete estates. We take it all! Free appraisals. Call 519-727-8894. 1-tfn
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YARD SALE
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REAL ESTATE
_____________________ DUPLEX HOUSE FOR SALE - 14 acres of land, 2 garages, lifetime warranty metal roofing. Beautiful yard, above ground swimming pool, in Essex. Selling by owner. Private sale only. Serious buyers only. NO AGENTS. Call: 519-961-9614 . 25-4t*
Sell It! Find it! Rent It! Buy It! in The Classifieds
Town of Essex
CLASSIFIED RATES Word Ads - 25 words or less ........................ $6.00 + HST Extra words .................................................... 20¢/word Display Classifieds ....................................... Call for rates
_____________________ _____________________ HELP WANTED: Tilray Inc. is looking for Greenhouse Production Associates to join their team. Duties include daily crop maintenance, harvesting, crop rotation, inventory counts, and cleaning of greenhouse. No public transportation available. Located in Leamington, ON. Compensation starts at $15.00/hour. Full time hours - Monday through Friday with occasional Saturdays. Please apply at careers@tilray.com or mail resume to P.O. Box 20009 269 Erie St. S. Leamington, ON N8H 3C4. _____________________ HELP WANTED Local truss assembly plant is hiring full-time truss builders. Monday to Friday and occasional Saturdays during busy season. Benefits after 3 months along with a boot allowance. Experience an asset but not required. Call 519-839-4301 or email resume to cindyh@rivardtruss.com. _____________________
I Thursday, July 14, 2022
519-776-4268
Your $6.00 goes a LONG way! Sell It! Find it! Rent It! Buy It! In The Classifieds 519-776-4268 ~ 11,000 weekly copies ~
Final Installment of Property Taxes If you own property in the Town of Essex you should have received your interim tax notice by July 18, 2022. The first installment is due on July 29, 2022, and the second installment is due on October 31, 2022. Failure to receive a tax notice does not relieve you from payment of taxes or penalties. Penalties are assessed on the first day of default at 1.25% and each month thereafter until paid. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure the Town has the correct mailing address. If you do not receive a tax notice, please contact 519-776-7336 extension 3050. Convenient Payment Options At the bank, online banking, credit card payments using Virtual City Hall, cheque by mail or drop box located at 33 Talbot Street, Essex & 243 McAffee Street, Harrow and Town Hall during the hours of 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm, subject to change due to COVID restrictions (please refer to website for current updates) Drainage, Water/Wastewater Arrears, Interest and Penalties Please note, unpaid water/wastewater arrears and drainage charges, as well as interest and penalties, may be added and appear on your property tax account. However, depending on the timing of these charges, they may not appear on your property tax notice. Tax Registration The Municipal Act, 2001 allows a municipality to begin the tax sale process on a property on January 1, if there is a balance in the second year following the year that property taxes are due. The Town of Essex adheres to this timeline for tax sale. For more information on the tax sale process and general tax information, please visit www.essex.ca/taxes.
www.tecumseh.ca
Public No ce Town of Tecumseh Municipal Council Vacancy Take No ce that a vacancy exists on the Town of Tecumseh Council for Councillor of Ward 1. This vacancy shall be filled by appointment through a Call for Nominees. The term of this posi on is from the date of the Council appointment being July 26, 2022 to the end of this Council term on November 14, 2022. A candidate for municipal office must be a qualified municipal elector as set out in the Municipal Elec ons Act, 1996. Qualified electors must be: a) 18 years of age or older; b) a Canadian ci zen c) a resident of the Town of Tecumseh, or an owner or tenant of land in the Town or the spouse of such an owner or tenant; and d) not prohibited from vo ng under any other Act or disqualified from holding municipal office. An informa on session for interested individuals will be held on Tuesday, July 19 at 5:30 pm at Town Hall in Council Chambers, located at 917 Lesperance Road, Tecumseh. Any qualified individual must apply using the applica on form on the Town website at www.tecumseh.ca by 2:00 pm on Thursday, July 21, 2022. For applica on requirements, see the Town of Tecumseh Council Vacancy Policy which is linked in the applica on form at www.tecumseh.ca/Council-Vacancy-Form/. Candidates will be no fied of the me of the July 26th Council mee ng. For further informa on, please contact the Ac ng Clerk, Jennifer Alexander at 519-735-2184 ext. 139 or jalexander@tecumseh.ca. Information on this and all Town of Tecumseh news and events is available at www.tecumseh.ca, www.tecumsehapp.ca, Twitter (@TownofTecumseh), and Facebook (Town of Tecumseh).
Thursday, July 14, 2022 I
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Essex Free Press
Town of Tecumseh - Council notes - June 28... Continued from Page 15 The new policy was established in response to Provincial Bill 27, which requires employers to have such a policy by June 2022. The policy highlights specific roles for the Town, management, and employees to enable disconnection from work outside of normal working hours. It also outlines situations that can arise where it is not possible to deal with matters during regular working hours, and where unavoidable situations may arise when it is necessary to contact employees outside of those hours. The policy is required by law to be posted for employee reference within 30 days of adoption. Council received the report and adopted the new policy. 2023-2026 Parks Capital Works Plan: Council received the 2023-26 Parks Capital Works Plan from staff. The capital works plan is established to maintain a consistently high level of service and to improve the Town’s park-related infrastructure components in a timely manner. The proposed projects included in the Plan reflect needs identified in the Parks and Recreation Master Plan completed in 2008 (and updated in 2021), as well as through consultations with
various individual park users and formal user groups. Projects include playground equipment replacements, ball diamond upgrades at Lacasse, new artificial turf soccer fields, new splashpads and washroom facilities. Council adopted the Plan. 2023-2026 Municipal Buildings Capital Projects Plan: Council received the 2023-26 Municipal Buildings Capital Projects Plan from staff. The Plan outlines upgrades to existing municipal buildings and infrastructure within, such as mechanical systems, roofing, flooring, and interior/exterior work. The Plan provides a detailed synopsis of necessary renovations, asset replacement and repair, and new infrastructure developments for Council’s consideration. Projects include replacement of HVAC units at various facilities, Library renovations, the construction of new outdoor washrooms at the Maidstone Recreation Centre, and general building repairs. Council adopted the Plan. More Homes for Everyone Act: Council received a report regarding the More Homes for Everyone Act and associated changes to the Planning Act. The More Homes for Everyone Act was adopted in 2022 and aims to introduce initiatives to increase housing supply, address speculation, and protect homebuyers, owners, and renters. With this legislation in place, a number of changes have been made to the Planning Act, including a number of measures aimed at facilitating the smooth processing of applications, as well as the Development Charges Act, requiring the municipality to post annual financial statements related to development charges and reserve funds to the Town’s website. Development and Planning Reports: Council scheduled a public meeting on August 9 at 6 p.m. to consider draft housekeeping amendments to the Town’s Zoning Bylaws to make provision for additional residential units
to be constructed as of right in certain residential zones. They also conditionally authorized a site plan control agreement allowing for the introduction of additional parking areas and improvements to existing parking areas on the south side of St. Gregory’s Road for L’Essor High School. Finally, Council approved the site plan for the construction of a 1,366.6 square metre industrial building to establish a tool making company on a vacant property on the west side of Roscon Industrial Drive. Filling of Vacant Ward 1 Council Seat: Council reviewed options for filling the vacancy of Ward 1 Council position. Following the resignation of the former Councillor for Ward 1 after the recent provincial election, the seat was declared vacant under theMunicipal Act. As the municipal election is more than 90 days away, Council is required under the Act to fill the seat, either by appointing a previous election candidate who has consented to accept the office if appointed, or by issuing a call for nominees and appointing a qualified candidate from the submissions. Council directed staff to conduct the appointment process by issuing a call for nominees, and scheduled a Special Meeting of Council on July 26, 2022, to select a qualified candidate. Notice will be issued next week to call for nominees. An information meeting for interested candidates will be scheduled for July 19, 2022. Essex Power Corporation, Appointment of Proxyholders: The Corporation of the Town of Tecumseh, together with the Municipality of
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Leamington, and Towns of LaSalle and Amherstburg are the shareholders of Essex Power Corporation. Essex Power is required to hold an annual meeting of shareholders and occasionally requires a special shareholders’ meeting. The Town is entitled to appoint two directors to the Essex Power Board. Council appointed Mayor Gary McNamara as proxyholder for the Town, and Mr. Tom Burton as an alternate proxholder for the purposes of the 2022 Shareholders’ Annual Meeting. Centennial and Woodridge Watermain Replacement Project: Council added a watermain replacement project at Centennial and Woodridge Drives to the 2022 Public Works & Engineering Capital Works Plan. The Town has received a grant through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) which will fund 77.33% of the $3.5 million capital project through funds from the Federal and Provincial governments. The watermain replacement project for Centennial and Woodbridge includes Centennial Drive from Riverside to St. Thomas; Woodridge Drive from Dillon to St. Thomas; and interconnections with Little River and St. Thomas. Tender Awards: Tenders were considered or awarded for a number of capital projects. The Tecumseh Road storm sewer and road improvements tender was awarded to Coco Paving Inc. in the amount of $4.85 million; the sole bid on the Lesperance Road VIA rail crossing improvements tender was rejected due to being significantly over budget; and a community safety vehicle purchase was authorized from East Court Ford Lincoln in
Continued on Page 18
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18 I Personals / News
Essex Free Press
FromThe Heart
Email your photo and content to contact@ @ essexfreepress.com or drop by our office at 16 Centre St.,, Essex. Personal notices must be received by Monday at 12:000 noon to appear in the Thursday edition. _________________________________________________________
IN LOVING MEMORY
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I Thursday, July 14, 2022
Town of Tecumseh - Council notes - June 28... Continued from Page 17 the amount of $56,999. Amendment to the 2022 Public Works & Engineering Services Capital Works Projects: Council approved an amendment to the 2022 Public Works & Engineering Services Capital Works Projects Plan. The amendment provides for the addition of the Tecumseh Hamlet Secondary Plan Area – Northwest Infrastructure Projects to the 2022 capital works plan. Further expenditures were authorized to complete the detailed engineering design for these infrastructure projects and funding was allocated for project management resources associated with delivering capital works projects in 2022 and 2023. Oldcastle Stormwater Master Plan: Council adopted the Oldcastle Stormwater Master Plan as presented by staff. As part of the Plan, a detailed hydrologic and hydraulic model of the area was created. The purpose of the Plan is to inventory and assess capacities of the existing stormwater drainage system; identify and define local drainage issues and areas of concern; assess needs for future development; assess potential drainage improvements; and prioritize implementation of proposed drainage improvements. The Master Plan was posted for the mandatory 30-day public review period, which expired in March, 2022. All ensuing comments received have been satisfactorily addressed and there are no further requirements under the municipal Class Environmental Assessment process. Therefore, the document is considered to be approved under Provincial legislation and, accordingly, was adopted by Council. Farm 911 Emily Project: Council approved the implementation of a new application process for the “Emily Project Access Point” (EPAP). The Emily Project (Project) was launched after a farm accident in which a young girl named Emily Trudeau did not survive. The emergency services vehicles responding to the call had difficulty locating the farm field where the accident took
place as there was no civic address assigned to the field entrance. The Project encourages owners of agricultural or vacant rural land to have civic addresses assigned to their access points to assist with emergency services locating the property. Following previous direction from Council, staff undertook a review of the process for implementing a new civic addressing process for vacant rural properties, which is already in place in over 75 municipalities and counties in Ontario. Under the newly approved program, residents in Tecumseh’s rural community will be able to apply for an EPAP sign for civic address signage to their vacant farm properties. Essex Power Youth in Community Fund: Council received confirmation that the Essex Power Corporation has once again approved funding to continue to support organizations that offer activities and projects geared towards youth in 2022. The “Youth in Community” Fund programming has continued annually since 2014, and throughout the years has sponsored a variety of recreation programs, events and local sport organizations. EPC has approved $40,000 Youth in Community Funding to be distributed among its four communities. Furthermore, EPC approved the carry over of the 2021 unused funds to be used in 2022, resulting in a total of $11,563 for the Tecumseh Community and Recreation Services Department. Next Regular Meeting: The next regular meeting of Council is July 12, 2022. The meeting will be held electronically. The agenda and livestream will be available online at: www.tecumseh.ca.
Churches, Mosques, & Synagogues come together on Naloxone distribution
Voice Of Inspiration “Talent is cheaper than table salt. What separates the talented individual from the successful one is a lot of hard work.” ~ Stephen King
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OBITUARIES
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WALTON, John (John Boy) - With deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beloved John on July 6, 2022, at 59 years of age. Dear husband of 34 years to Wendy (nee Battersby). Loving father of Jake (Hannah), Seth, and his faithful companion, Killer. Son of the late Jack and Carol Walton. Stepson of Jake Rawson. Son-in-law of Phyllis and the late Carl Battersby. Treasured brother of Jim Walton (Cheryl), Judy Robinson (Andy)) and Joanne Voakes (Whitey). Brother-in-law of Chris Battersby (Diane), Cindyy Phillips (Brad), and Carl Battersby. Also survived by many nieces, nephews andd great nieces and nephews. John Boy began working at Ford Motor Companyy in 1998 where he has made many friends over the years. He loved the game off hockey and suited up as a goalie. John Boy was a dedicated Detroit Red Wingss fan and hockey dad. He spent many hours at the family bush. The visitationn for John Boy was held at the Kennedy Funeral Home Ltd. (519-776-7378) 1288 Talbot St. North in Essex. Cremation followed. Donations may be made to thee Westover Treatment Centre or to the Windsor Cancer Foundation. You may sendd your condolences online at www.kennedyfh.com
submitted to EFP Over the last weekend of June, 363 free naloxone kits were distributed to the congregations at a number of places of worship across Windsor and Essex County. Individuals who received a kit also received education on how to administer naloxone and how to identify an opioid-related overdose. The kits themselves include two doses of naloxone nasal spray, which can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. In addition to the seven places of worship distributing kits during 12 independent services, an additional 14 faith leaders shared information on opioids and naloxone with their congregations in preparation for distribution in the future. The timely distribution of these kits is particularly important given a recent Alert from the Windsor-Essex Community Opioid and Substance Strategy which described an elevated number of deaths related to substance use and overdose in our region in recent weeks. For the weeks of June 6-12 and June 13-19, there were five suspected drug-related deaths each week. For context, there were 61 opioid overdose-related deaths in all of 2021. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) led the distribution initiative and was pleased to have distributed naloxone kits to residents from diverse backgrounds and faiths, according to Acting Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Shanker Nesathurai, “Opioid overdoses and deaths affect people from all religious and cultural communities. It affects people of all income levels. It is important that all community members in Windsor-Essex understand the scope of this issue and what each of them can do as individuals to prevent overdose and death. Each of us can do something by obtaining a naloxone kit for our household.” In addition to the targeted distribution at local churches, mosques, and synagogues this past and upcoming weekends, naloxone kits can be obtained at most local pharmacies and through a number of community agencies free of charge. The commitment of the participating faith communities and their leaders, as well as the community partners who assisted with the distribution of naloxone kits was essential to the successful distribution this past weekend, according to Dr. Nesathurai, “To our faith leaders, the Canadian Mental Health Association (Windsor-Essex County Branch), Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, Essex-Windsor EMS, Family Services WindsorEssex, and Windsor Police Service, we thank you for your partnership.”
What’s Going On... JULY 14 17 25TH ANNUAL BELLE RIVER SUNSPLASH- Lots for the whole family! For a full schedule of events and more info, visit: www.BelleRiverBIA.com JULY 16 - ESSEX RETIREES’ ANNUAL BBQ. from 11am - 2pm. Everyone is welcome. JULY 20 KINGSVILLE BLOOD DONOR CLINIC- At Grovedale Arts & Culture Centre, 103 Park St. For info & to book an appointment, visit: blood.ca or call: 1-888-236-6283. JULY 23 & 24 LAZEE G RANCH’S ‘SHODEO’ - Live performances. Fun for all ages. For more information: www.lazeegranch.ca JULY 24 AMHERSTBURG’S GONE CAR CRAZY - Downtown Amherstburg. Street cars, Muscle cars, Hot rods, Jeeps, etc. with LIVE entertainment. JULY 29, 30, 31 HOGS FOR HOSPICE At Seacliffe Park, Leamington. for tickets and info: www.hogsforhospice.com JULY 29 BUTTERFLY DAY At Maidstone Museum, 1093 Puce Road (Cty Rd 25) from 10am - 12pm. Please pre-register by July 27. Call 519-819-5318 JULY 30 & 31 SUNPARLOUR RODEO at 1835 County Rd. 18, Ruthven. 6pm start. For information: www.sunparlourrodeo.com AUG. 2 HARROW BLOOD DONOR CLINIC- At Camoes Portuguese Club of Harrow, 390 Sinasac St. W. To book an appointment, visit: blood.ca or call: 1-888-236-6283. AUG. 5, 6, 7 COMBER FAIR - At the Comber Community Centre, 6211-6213 McAllaster St., Comber. For all information & schedule: www.comberfair.com AUG. 19 MILL ST. MARKET - In Leamington from 5-10pm. Free Admission. Street food, drinks, live entertainment & more. HIATUS HOUSE: offers counselling services in Essex County. Women’s Fresh Start group therapy is once a week. For info or to schedule an intake appointment, call the 24-hour Hiatus House helpline at 519-252-7781. WINDSOR AND DISTRICT OSTOMY SUPPORT GROUP meeting on April 24, May 29, & June 26 at 1p.m. at Cottam United Church, 137 Talbot Rd. W. Cottam. Our support group is for those who have had or will have ostomy surgery. Family members and/ or friends welcomed.
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Community Hub I 19
Essex Free Press
sponsorship by:
Fresh food. Friendly neighbours 191 Talbot St. S., Essex
519-776-4255 Salvation Army Essex Church submitted by Carolyn Barnett
Join us in our air conditioned sanctuary Sundays at 10:3 a.m. for Family Worship. On July 17th, Major Jim Hann’s sermon topic is “Faithfulness.” Stop by on Tuesdays between 10a.m. - noon for a coffee, tea & snacks at our SA Cafe. All are welcome to enjoy visiting with new friends. Our Food Bank is always in need of canned soup & vegetables, cookies and cereal. For information call the church office at 519-776-4628. Donations are gratefully accepted Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, between 9a.m. 2p.m.
Trinity Anglican Church Our church family and friends have come through in a big way through donations for the ‘Salvation Army Soap for Hope’ initiative that offers showers to those without a home. We collected towels, socks, soap, shampoo, tooth brushes, and much more. We have a wonderful new sign thanks to George and Diane Newman, Larry and Brenda Lawson and family, and anyone I may have missed. Thank you. Mark you calander for our Family and Friend Day on August 21st on the church grounds. Please join us for our 9:30am outdoor service. A potluck meal with fun and fellowship will follow. All are welcome to attend; invite your friends, neighbours, and family. Sunday servies are at 9:30 am lead by Rev.’d Hilton Gomes. All are welcome to join us.
Brooker News submitted by Ruth Newman
Worship Service, on Sunday, July 17, at 10am, will have Mike Morency delivering the message. Phil Hernandez with be with us on Sunday, July 24. Donations for the food bank are being accepted and appreciated. Our sincere sympathy goes out to the Newman and Fick families on the passing of Marjorie Fick, last week. We ask you include in your prayers those in our community who are suffering or are ill, as well as those around the world dealing with turmoil.
Essex United Church Join us for worship on Sunday, July 17th at 10:30am. Everyone is welcome. Keep cool in our air conditioned sanctuary! Keep up-to-date here: www.essexunitedchurch.ca. and social media pages. The Essex Food Bank is open - Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30am – 11:45pm. The phone number is: 519-776-4070.
Essex Retirees’ Club News On Monday Afternoon’s Pepper games, winners were: Mavis Law with high score, Dorval Cadieux with the most Peppers, and Cathy Dewhurst with low score. George Diesbourg had high score at our ‘once a month’ Special Pepper. Ella-Jo Chevalier and Dorothy Fields tied for second, Terry Durance had third, and Cathy Dewhurst took fourth place. New players are always welcome!
Woodslee United Church submitted by Sue Holman
Worship Service at 9 am. Summer is here, so we will host our Summer Worship Services. We will hold joint services with our friends from Belle River United. The Services for the month of July will be held at Woodslee. Please note the new time of 9am. For the month of August, the joint service will held in Belle River at 9am. This also includes Labour Day Weekend in Belle River. Regular church services in both churches, will be
back on September 11. Service will still be available on our website.
933 Talbot Road, Maidstone. You can find us on the web at www.bethelmaidstone.com
Essex Christian Reformed Church
Antioch Christian Ministries
submitted by Beverley Van Huizen
Submitted by Karen Chaulk
Welcome to Essex CRC either in-person or online! We are open and invite you to join us each Sunday at 10am. All safety protocols are in place or you may join us online. Visit www. essexcrc.ca for a link to our social media page for upcoming services, information, and updates. At this time, we cannot offer nursery supervision or Sunday school. Enjoy our ‘Take-a-book-Leave-a-book’ library located in front of the church. Come be part of the community.
Antioch Church, located at 455 County Rd. 34 W. Essex, invites you to join them for their Sunday Services at 10am Children’s Ministry Classes are available during service for ages 18 month - Grade 6, beginning at 10:30am. Youth meet Friday’s at 7:30pm (doors open at 7pm). Young Adults meet every other Saturday at 7:30pm. For more information about other meetings and service times, please go to: antiochcanada.ca
Essex Baptist Church Our congregation is open and welcomes you to join us for Sunday worship at 10:30am. Recorded messages are on our website at: www.essexbaptist.com We contiue to pray for God’s blessing on all of Essex County. Let us know how we can, more specifically, pray for you. (email: pastor@essexbaptist.com). 71 Maidstone Ave East.
St. Paul’s Anglican Church submitted by Sandra Lypps
For the months of July and August our Sunday services will be at 10am. All are welcome! Our pasta dinners are done until September and our next market is still being planned, stay tuned for a date. If you are cleaning out closets, please keep our Clothes Cupboard in mind. We are always looking for donations of gently used clothing. For more information about what is happening at St. Paul’s, visit online: www.stpaulstrinity.org, or social media. Call the office at 519-776-7111 (Messages are checked regularly).
Bethel-Maidstone United All are welcome to join us to hear Rev. Paul’s message at 10am, Sunday morning. Our building is air conditioned and wheelchair accessible. We are pleased to welcome guest speakers Sue Anderson on July 24th, August 7th and 14th and Brian Stocks on July 31st and August 21st. There is no Sunday School offered at this time. The Children’s Drop-In Centre also continues to be paused until further notice. The secretary can be reached Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9am - 1pm. Our number is (519) 723-2284 and our email is bethelmaidstone@gmail.com. We are located at
Central Essex County Catholic Family of Parishes Essex, Maidstone, McGregor, and Woodslee news Welcome Fr. David Johnston to our Family of Parishes! Vacation Bible School takes place on August 8th to 12th for children 3 to 12 years. Sign up now. Forms are at the back of each church. It is free! St. John’s K of C are accepting applications for post secondary bursaries until July 31st. If you have a vegetable or fruit garden, please share any extra produce with our local food banks. For up to date news please visit our website: centralessexcatholic.dol or find us on social media. Please keep all the shut ins and sick in your prayers.
20 I Business Directory Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 14, 2022
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Opinion / Business Directory I 21
Essex Free Press
OFA - There’s a difference between private and farm railway crossings – and it matters... Continued from Page 8 line passing through their land, which means they have a private level crossing over the rail line that serves as the farmer’s only way of access to fields on the opposite side of the tracks. Earlier this year, farmers and rural landowners with private grade crossings on their properties began receiving letters and contracts from railway companies regarding these private crossings. The contracts outline proposed maintenance work that rail companies – like Canadian Pacific and Canadian National – will complete, how much the property owner will have to pay for this work, and a requirement for the landowner to buy liability insurance. Historically, these types of crossings that were used for farm purposes were designated as farm crossings and their maintenance had always been the responsibility of the railway. Now, that distinction is no longer being made. Instead, all farm crossings are being classified as private crossings – with the costs for upgrades and maintenance being downloaded to farmers and landowners. Depending on the crossing, those costs – and the liability insurance farmers are now required to have – can be substantial and far beyond what is considered an affordable expense.
When the amendments to the regulations were first announced three years ago, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) began drawing attention to the importance of the differences between private and farm crossings, and the need to validate and verify crossing to establish their status. Based on the correspondence farmers have been receiving, this important ground-truthing step did not take place, and farmers are now left on their own to try and have the railway designate their crossings as farm crossings. After first hearing about this from farmers in my region of Eastern Ontario through the local county federations, I met with both my Member of Parliament, Eric Duncan of Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry, and Michael Barrett of Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes to raise this issue with them. They’ve both indicated that they’re trying to work with farmers to rectify the problems. The issue is also starting to attract some media attention and I’ve participated in some interviews on the subject this spring too, which has helped raise awareness of the situation. Farmers need these crossings to ensure they are able to access their own land and aren’t cut off from it by
the railway tracks running through their property. In fact, landowners of farm crossings have a statutory right to a crossing at the railway’s expense. That’s why OFA is encouraging farmers to raise this issue with their MPs, as well as contact the railway to validate their crossing as one that is for farm use and therefore exempt. Farm crossings are typically only used seasonally or for agricultural activities, and are not available for public use or access. It’s important to note that not all crossings on a farm will be considered as “farm crossings”. For example, farm crossing designation does not apply if the land in question was severed by the railway line before 1888, or a person doesn’t own parcels of land on opposite sides of and adjoining each side of the railway, or the land title is severed into two separate parcels. OFA continues to work on this issue, and monitor its process and implementation to help reduce the significant financial burdens the farming community is facing over this situation.
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22 I Opinion / Community
Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 14, 2022
Essex Fun Fest hosts car show along Fairview by Sylene Argent The Essex Fun Fest Committee partnered with Cars & Coffee Windsor to host this year’s car show. Cars & Coffee Windsor has several hundred members, many of whom helped line one-side of Fairview Avenue, from Talbot Street to Hanlan Street, with other local classic, custom, and antique vehicle owners on Saturday afternoon, following the Essex Fun Fest Parade.
One of the participants was Woodslee’s Ron Deschaine, who was proud to show off his 1939 GMC truck. This vehicle is a piece of the Cottam Fire Department’s history, as it served as one of its vehicles in the late ‘50s, until it was retired. At that point, Deschaine said the vehicle was sold and sat in a barn for half-of-a-century. Descahine said he had been looking for an old truck for a long time before he
First car ride was in a Packard
Four guys in a Packard!
Last month, I invited readers of my column to tell me the make and year of the first car they rode in. Kent Weale, a good friend in Port Credit, tells us he was born late at night on Sunday, January 16, 1944, at the Toronto General Hospital. Kent’s Dad wanted their family doctor to deliver the baby and phoned him while the doctor was attending a very swanky Saturday evening house party. He immediately left the party and headed downtown to perform the delivery. He was the only doctor the staff could ever remember delivering a baby while wearing a tuxedo! A few days later, Kent and his Mom were driven home by Dad in the family car, a black 1941 Packard 4-door sedan. The car was named after James Ward Packard, who began building cars bearing his name in Warren, Ohio, in 1899. Kent Weale today owns a Packard, but not the one his Dad owned. Kent now owns an exact replica of a 1933 Packard convertible mounted on a modern chassis with automatic transmission. The photo you see here was taken at a car show in Waterdown, Ontario, with Kent behind the wheel and three of his friends along for the ride. I’m the guy in the rumble seat with his hand on the rear fender! I’m always looking for stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca
came across this vehicle. He spent around 2500-hours restoring it over a nine-month-and-two-week period. The GMC truck pulled a trailer holding a 1974 Volkswagen that Descahine turned into a roadster 35-years ago.
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Essex Free Press
Youth talent shines in annual showcase...
did not make it easy for the judges to select a winner. Contestants not only sang, danced, or played a musical instrument, they also answered a series of questions in front of a live audience. All of those who performed received a ride-all-day pass to the Essex Fun Fest for participating, while the top two entries in each division were also presented with a special token of acknowledgement. All of the youths were also welcome to ride in the Essex Fun Fest Parade on Saturday as part of the Town of Essex float.
Voice Of Inspiration “You are unique. You have different talents and abilities. You don’t have to always follow in the footsteps of others. And most important, you should always remind yourself that you don’t have to do what everyone else is doing and have a responsibility to develop the talents you have been given.” ~ Roy T. Bennett
Continued from Page 11
24 I Ad Feature Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 14, 2022