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Vol. 140
A LOOK INSIDE
Thursday, July 23, 2020
Local walk raises funds for Hogs for Hospice
Town of Essex Council meeting notes - July 20 PAGE 3 _______________ County Council property and liability insurance coverage has a $91,000 increase PAGE 9 _______________ Council reviews election policies and procedures PAGE 10 _______________ County Council awards County Rd. 2 CWATS bid PAGE 13 _______________ Open Air Weekends, a hit in Amherstburg PAGE 19 _______________
Looking For A Good Home
“ROBBIE” by Sylene Argent Sweltering heat didn’t stop a group of determined individuals from walking the around 10 kilometers from Cottam to Essex District High School on Saturday as part of a fundraiser for Hogs for Hospice. Dan and Kimberly Newman of Cottam organized the walk as supporters of the annual Hogs for Hospice event. They enjoy participating in many of the activities
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Issue No. 29
Kimberly and Dan Newman, organizers of the walk held on Saturday to raise funds for Hogs for Hospice, lead the way during the event.
Many participants joined in a walk from Cottam to Essex District High School on Saturday as a way to raise funds for Hogs for Hospice.
Hogs for Hospice offers each year, which typically includes charity rides and concerts in Leamington. Because of COVID-19, this year’s bike rally event has been cancelled, as many local events have been, but the Cottam couple still wanted to find a way to raise money for the cause. “I wanted to find a way to at least raise the funds I would have spent at Hogs for Hospice,” Kimberly said. The Newmans noted they have not had to experience hospice care for a loved one yet, but have many friends who have. They noted this service is an important one to the community, and they were pleased to find a way to help put
some funds in its coffers. Walk participants were asked to practice social distancing and adhere to provincial pandemic regulations. Crew members of the Hogs for Hospice Headquarters passed out refreshments at the halfway point along the walk route, and greeted the participants at the fishline, located at the local high school, in a show of encouragement and support. Leading up to the walk, the participants collected pledges from friends, family members, and coworkers, and also made donations. Because of this dedication, the Newmans noted they were able to raise around $8000 for Hogs for Hospice. The organizers were pleased with the walk support and the funds raised. They hope Hogs for Hospice will be back in full swing next year. Kimberly noted Hogs for Hospice still has a few activities planned for this summer. More information about Hogs for Hospice can also be found at: hogsforhospice.com.
2 I News Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 23, 2020
County Council learns about “Open Data” Catalogue website
by Sylene Argent At its regular meeting held virtually last Wednesday evening, County Council received a presentation about the “Open Data” catalogue website being created. Mary Birch, Director of Council and Community Services/Clerk, said the “Open Data” Catalogue is a new initiative from the Information Technology and Geographic
Information Systems Department for the County of Essex, which has been working with similar teams from local municipalities. At the County of Essex, a large number of requests for information are received on an annual basis, which includes maps and other information the County has, but is not confidential in nature. It does require,
however, staff time to gather the information for release. “It just makes sense to make it available on our website for the general public and businesses, if they want that information to be able to gather it themselves,” she said. This is something that has been available on Federal and Provincial government website for some time now,
Birch noted, as well as municipalities throughout the province. GIS Coordinator, Cathy Paduch, explained open data is information that is legally and technically open and free from restriction, so it can be shared and released. In the Terms of Use, the user must acknowledge the source and accept no warranty on the data for liability purposes. Data
Gary McNamara, Warden of Essex County and Mayor of Tecumseh, believes this is a nice augment for individuals to inquire about local communities. He sees this website as being beneficial for tourism and economic development opportunities, amongst others. “I think this is certainly a great tool, another addon to the toolbox that we have to continue to promote our region,” McNamara said. He wondered if Pelee Island was involved with the program. Paduch noted it was not able to include its information to this website, as it is not part of the County’s ELA, but if Pelee Island had its own site, a link could share data to the County’s website.
is available in common formats and will provide for an open and transparent government, she added. Currently, there are eight categories on the County of Essex’s Open Data website, Paduch said. It can grow over time and will include local municipal information as well. Local municipalities will also be able to create their own open data site at no additional costs, with support from the County. Tracey Bailey, Deputy Mayor of Lakeshore, said the open data website was fantastic. She wondered about the level of interest from local municipalities. Paduch said interest levels varied, but she has created a guide to assist municipalities to step them through the process of identifying, assessing, and publishing the data for the catalogue.
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Essex Free Press
by Sylene Argent and Adam Gault CAO provides COVID-19 update Chris Nepszy, CAO for Essex, said there really is not a whole lot to report as it relates to business of the Town of Essex and COVID-19. He noted the region would be staying in Stage 2 of the Province’s reopening plan at this point. The Town, however, is preparing for the reopening of Stage 3, which includes creating procedures for the arenas with user-groups. In addition, the maintenance of fields is going well, Nepszy said. Councillor Sherry Bondy said she has heard a lot of favourable feedback from within the community in regards to how the pool was opened, and that they are happy to be able to use it to get out and keep active. She said the Town is also getting accolades on how it had opened the splashpads. Bondy wondered when Council would again be able to meet in person. Nepszy said he has been working on that, but there have been some logistical issues in terms of continuing livestreaming as delegations would not necessarily take place in person at first. He is working through the parameters on what the Town needs to do to go back to using the County Council Chambers at the Essex Civic and Education Centre. When livestreaming can be done to meet the needs of the meeting, Nepszy will come back to Council. Council members can then make a decision on how it would like to move ahead. Councillor Chris Vander Doelen wondered why delegations would not attend meetings. He believes regular delegations should be held, so long as social distancing is adhered to. Nepszy said the Civic and Education Centre is closed right now, which offers a different complexity. Perhaps delegates could be housed outside and brought in when it is their turn to approach Council. Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche would like to see this issue come back to Council to ensure everyone is comfortable with a plan. He is still leery to get back in person too soon. He believes the meetings online are working just fine. “We have to be setting an example, I believe, as being public figures. One of the ways we can do it is to continue on with virtual meetings until such time we feel is very safe,” Meloche said, adding staff and administration should be wearing masks when it does come time to meet, at least until they get to their seats. Council received Nepszy’s verbal report. Council receives CIP grant update Essex Council received Economic Development’s report “Community Improvement Plan Update (Quarter 2 2020)” for informational purposes. The Town of Essex’s Community Improvement Plans (CIP) are municipal grant programs for eligible commercial property owners, offering a myriad of potential funding opportunities, including for façade improvements, new signage, and building renovations and improvements, the Report to Council notes. There are three program boundaries, including Essex Centre, Harrow, and Colchester/County Road 50. Nelson Silveira, Economic Development Officer, prepared the report, which noted the majority of applications received in 2020 have come from property owners located in the Harrow CIP project area. Several new applications have been received in Quarter 2 of
- Monday, July 20, 2020 2020. Interest remains, but potential applicants may have not come forward to begin the process. Completed projects for 2020 to-date total $50,757.90. Of the five applications, one was from Essex Centre, three were from Harrow, and one from Colchester/Country Road 50 boundaries, the report notes. The Town has also received 10 applications for projects that have commenced in 2020; of which four are from Essex Centre, four are from Harrow Centre, and two are from the Colchester/County Road 50 programs. One of the Colchester/County Road 50 projects includes Development Charges Grant, Development Permit Fee Grant, Architectural Design Grant, Outdoor Café/Patio Grant for the John R. Park Homestead’s new Heritage Centre/Tourism Information Centre. The Report to Council continues that Council approved $100,000 in the 2020 budget for the Essex Centre CIP and $100,000 for the Harrow and Colchester/County Road 50 CIP. In the Essex Centre CIP program, there is $91,868.71 left in the budget, there is $53,538.78 left in the Harrow & Colchester/ County Road 50 CIP budget. Councillor Sherry Bondy talked of when, a few years ago, the CIP uptake in Harrow was not as great as it was in Essex Centre. Now, she is seeing the reverse with more Harrow and Colchester businesses taking advantage of the program. She hopes Council will be open minded if money has to be shifted to a CIP program, which she said is a great opportunity. Councillor Joe Garon wondered how much the pending projects would amount to, and how it is determined, with the applications out, if the budget will be met. Lori Chadwick, Director of Development Service, said a lot of work is being done in the three CIPs. The work is ongoing, so it is difficult to know the demand on the funding. Staff is monitoring the program. Prior to turning any application down, staff will come forward to Council with possible options. Council receives development overview for June The development overview for June of this year notes the total construction value for June 2020 is $8,376,100. This includes all new and expanding commercial, industrial, institutional, and residential developments that required a building permit. This is up 44.4 percent from June 2019. As far as real estate goes, the average sale price for June was $392,192 for Wards 1 and 2, and $367,935 for Wards 3 and 4. Both numbers are up from June of 2019. A total of 33 single-family dwellings were sold in June 2020; 18 of which were in Ward 1 and 2, and 15 in Ward 3 and 4. In June of 2019, 39 were sold. To date in 2020, 159 homes have been sold within the Municipality of Essex, according to the report. Council receives Climate Change Adaptation Plan progress report Council received a progress report from Essex Climate Change Analyst, Niharika Bandaru, regarding updates on the Town’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan. This report follows two late May meetings of the Essex Climate Action Team, and the Internal Climate Action Team, where discussions were held on various facets of climate change, and how they might impact the Town of Essex. Continued on Page 5
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4 I Opinion Essex Free Press
Editorial &Opinion Serving Essex and the surrounding communities since 1896.
Published Thursdays as an independent weekly newspaper, owned and operated by The Essex Voice Limited. A London Publishing Corporation Publication LIMITED OFFICE HOURS: Limited staff working from the office. Email or Call with submission inquiries. OUR STAFF Sandy Kennedy / Andrew Beaudoin - Office Jessica Azar - Graphic Design / Social Media / Production Lana Warwick - Graphic Design Greg Belchuk - Advertising Sales Manager Sylene Argent - Editor/News Reporter Shelley Beaudoin - Graphic Design / Production
CIRCULATION The Essex Free Press is an audited publication with controlled circulation of 10,000.
DELIVERY
I Thursday, July 23, 2020
Howling at the Moon ••• Comment by Sylene Argent ••• Feeling like a lump
This is one girl who cannot wait until things get back to normal; and I am positive I am not alone in this mode of thinking. It has been tough, since the COVID-19 pandemic, on a lot of people for a lot of different reasons. Some of us have had little contact with friends and family, some have had to work overtime as essential workers (with fear of the virus looming overhead), and some of us have had additional battles to face, whether it be financial or the health of ourselves or someone we love. And, with all of these barriers, not to mention the additional stressors occurring all over the world recently, it sure is hard to wake up feeling good some mornings. But, it is in these times when we really need to stop being that bump on the log and bring that positivity to the table that so many of us are craving. It may sound a little ridiculous,
but positivity, believe it or not, is contagious. It may be difficult to feel passion when there have been so many obstacles to maneuver through this year just to get through a day, but we need to work hard to create that positivity when we can’t find it so easily. When you think about it, our way of life has had us living pretty luxuriously. Most of us have air conditioning in hot weather and furnaces for the winter, we have cars that can zip us from one spot to another fairly quickly, and we have access to clean food and water. Our society may not be perfect, but we do okay. Are there problems we face? Oh, heck yeah! And one of them is securing that way of life we have become accustomed to for the future. We worry about the loss of jobs, the rising costs of food, the
affordability of adequate housing, all while having watched our middle class shrink over the years. But, it just means we need to be more creative, as difficult as that may be, to secure a good future for ourselves and others. We also need to support each other. So, when we feel our heads filling with thoughts of negativity, we need to stop and remember all those things we need to be thankful for. When we feel low, we need to find the time and desire within ourselves to rediscover those things that bring us happiness. Happiness is fuel for motivation, and when we have drive, there is no stopping us from acheiving great things.
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OPINION & COMMENT The opinions expressed on these pages are those of their original authors and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Essex Free Press, its Editor or Publisher.
LETTER POLICY The Essex Free Press welcomes letters to the editor on topics of interest to our readers. Letters should be typed or neatly handwritten and present the issues as clearly as possible in 300 words or less. We reserve the right to edit for length, grammar, and legal considerations. All letters must contain the name, address, and daytime phone number of the writer for verification purposes. Anonymous letters will not be considered for publication. If you have a legitimate concern and cannot sign your name to a letter, please contact the editor to discuss alternative means of handling the issue.
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YOUR community newspaper by Jessica Azar Forgive me please for my manic writing. I am tired and disappointed and have a lot on my brain, all at once. As a local, community newspaper publishing in the modern world, we are faced with daily challenges and hurdles. We are published through advertising and have a group of business owners who work with us regularly because they see the value in our product and we are grateful for them. In turn, we support and appreciate them. That is what it feels like to be a part of a community, working together, supporting each other. As a community newspaper in the heart of Essex County, we understand the importance of supporting local businesses, churches, organizations, fundraising efforts, sports, events, and the list goes on. We are champions of local and we encourage others to support it. That is our job as a proud, local business. Staff are from this community. From a paper carrier, freelance writer, or full time office staff, The Essex Free Press employees people who live, pay taxes, and shop in our community. Like many others, we have worked tirelessly throughout this pandemic and our carriers never stopped to make certain our readers continued to enjoy free home delivery. We cannot even express the amount of gratitude we have for our carriers and for the businesses who have supported us at this difficult and stressful time. We all have come together to support each other and that has been beautiful to be a part of. Now for the manic portion… we have also experienced people who believe that social media and a multi-milliondollar, foreign owned corporation is the best (and only) way to get their message out. There are people out there who are arrogant enough to believe that there is no value in print in general. That there is no value in us. The fact that we have to prove that we are valuable to our community is
insulting. We work too hard to receive the type of disrespect we simply do not deserve. Have you ever heard anyone say, “Thank goodness for that advertisment before that video I wanted to show my friends real quick?” No, you haven’t. But you have heard, “Thank goodness for the ‘skip’ button.” In fact, there has been an increase in people quitting social media platforms or making an effort to use them less. Last year, I personally deleted some apps from my phone to use social media less and it has been one of the healthiest choices I have made. At the end of the day, The Essex Free Press is a local business that has a job to serve the community. We have readers in Essex, Cottam, Maidstone, Woodslee, Lakeshore, Tecumseh, Amherstburg, and even outside of Canada. With a limited staff, we cover community events, fundraisers, council meetings, etc. Social media and corporation doesn’t offer that. We record local history in print, as well as online. This is available to you, the people, all for free. We are happy to take submissions on local sport team write-ups, or church news, or community events for our what’s going on column. As well, our writers and reporters are familiar with the local faces and names of our community. They have been to your daughter’s graduation, they have interviewed your son’s soccer coach, they have been to Fun Fest, Corn Fest, Apple Fest, all the fests!! (several times)... We are happy to work with other businesses to make sure their advertising works for them. And it’s been proven to work, when we get calls from businesses to stop an ad because it’s worked so well that they are now overwhelmed by the response. (Sure we don’t use our analytics, but it’s only because we are busy with hearing that our product works.) We whole-heartedly want to see our fellow businesses thrive and succeed. A quality, community newspaper is tried and true. So, my question is, why do we have to continue to defend this to some? At the Essex Free Press, we strive to be better and innovative everyday. We are creative and try to move with the times we are living in, while keeping the integrity of the product we continue to believe in. Please, work with us because we want to work with you.
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Essex Free Press
Essex Council notes - July 20... Subjects of these meetings included how resource availability, social networks, and service delivery between urban and rural areas vary, impacting climate change adaptation and resilience. In addition, other subjects included individual vulnerabilities, based on variances in lifestyle and occupation, and similarities between COVID-19 and climate change impacts and how these lessons could be applied to climate change resilience in the Town of Essex. This is part of Phase 1 of the Town’s four phase climate project plan, with Phase 1 being Assessing Climate Impacts. Phase 2: Adaptation Planning, Phase 3: Approval and Funding, and Phase 4: Implementation. “We’ve assessed climate impact, we’ve analyzed our vulnerabilities, and we’re currently identifying what our priority risks are,” Essex Director of Developmental Services, Lori Chadwick, said, as Essex plans to move to Phase 2 by the end of July. “Moving into Phase 2 you’ll start to see that [Climate Change Adaptation Plan] take shape.” The municipality will continue to work with its internal team in conjunction with consultation from members of the public, as well as external groups, such as the Essex Region Conservation Authority, ELK Energy, and The City of Windsor, before unveiling the final plan.
Continued from Page 3
Colchester Memorial Cemetery is the only remaining cemetery in the Town of Essex to actively offer plots for sale, and the addition of columbarium niches will offer additional selection, especially with the rising popularity of cremation services. “I think this is going to be a great addition to our cemetery in Colchester,” Councillor Sherry Bondy said. “It’s an extremely affordable option that many people are looking forward to, and I think that it will really look great. I think it’s a great step for our cemetery.” The first niches are scheduled to be constructed over the next few months. Amendments made to the Cemetery Bylaw Essex Council gave two readings and provisionally adopted Bylaw 1812, to provide for cemetery amendments. And, also approved that this bylaw come back for a third reading upon approval by the Bereavement Authority of Ontario. Council also agreed that Bylaw 1186 and any amendments thereto be repealed upon Bylaw 1812 coming into full force and effect. The Report to Council on this issue notes the purpose is to update the current bylaw to reflect the current procedures by which the Town operates and
Council approves Harrow Arena roof replacement Council approved a request for tender to replace several segments of the Harrow Arena roof. The contract was awarded to Gillett Roofing Inc., in the amount of $171,923.52. This includes a non-refundable HST. In accordance with municipal bylaws, Council approval is required for any purchase over $100,000, and thus the municipality sought tenders from qualified contractors. Although Gillett Roofing submitted the second lowest bid, it was approved as the lowest bidder’s quoted roof materials did not meet tender specifications. Gillett Roofing has been a previous supplier of roofing services for the Town on previous projects.
maintains its cemeteries, in accordance with current legislation and recommended best practices. Bylaw 1812, the Report to Council adds, provides for and is a result of a complete review of Bylaw 1186. The review was held to ensure compliance with current legislation and amendments and best practices provided by the Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO) and the Ontario Association of Cemetery and Funeral Professionals (OACFP). As the Town is installing its first columbarium unit at the Colchester Memorial Cemetery, the installation of this unit requires amendments to the current bylaw to permit the sale of niches in Columbarium units. Several changes were made, including adding definitions to provide for further clarification as well as the addition of columbarium units; allowing for rights holders the ability to sell or transfer their rights, so long as the sale or transfer is conducted through the Town and the interment rights holders and purchaser meets the qualifications and requirements outlined in the Cemetery By-Law, and a list of cemeteries has been
Continued on Page 6
Pet Of The Week: Robbie Robbie is only 4 months old and he is looking for a forever, loving home. If you’re looking for a special kitten, he’s the guy for you. Only a limited number of animals will be made available at a time. They will be posted on the adoptable animal pages at www. windsorhumane.org. To apply to adopt an available animal, please click the “Interested in this Animal? Click here” link. All applications will be reviewed. For more info, contact us today. This pet comes with 6 weeks of pre-paid pet health insurance. For more information, visit www.ospcainsurance.ca or call 1-866-600-2445. The Windsor-Essex County Humane Society shelter is at 1375 Provincial Rd., Windsor. Ph: 519-966-5751.
Columbarium approved at Colchester Memorial Cemetery A columbarium was approved for construction at Colchester Memorial Cemetery, seeking to alleviate a shortage of options for final resting places within the Town of Essex, as well as provide an economic alternative to costly, land consuming traditional burials.
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Essex Council notes - July 20... added to provide further transparency pertaining to the cemeteries owned and/or maintained by the Town. The interment rights now permits the burial of either one traditional interment plus two cremation interment, or three cremation interments.
Essex to send letter to Health Unit to ask for better COVID-19 data Councillor Sherry Bondy put forth a motion for Council consideration, that the Town of Essex request the Windsor Essex County Health Unit provide the breakdown of COVID-19 cases in the municipality and region, based on classification. Bondy said Council needs to insist the Health
Unit provide that data, not just the graphs currently being provided. “If we get the raw data, then we can make better decisions,” Bondy said, which would include when Council should open arenas and the Colchester Beach. “The Health Unit, what they are currently providing, isn’t adequate. And, I think they could be a little more transparent,” she said, adding she is concerned with the lack of information. “If we want to move out of our declared emergency, we need these tools to make these decisions.” The more data, the better, Bondy said. If Council would support a letter to the Health Unit, she believes the whole region would
benefit from the data. Councillor Steve Bjorkman agreed the breakdown is important to Council. He said there are businesses that have not opened at all, yet. And, the Town does not know where the bar is. More data, he added, will help show where the bar is and how Essex can work at getting to Stage 3 of the Province’s reopening. Councillor Chris Vander Doelen agreed the information is needed, but “I guarantee you, we will not get it in a million years. This current iteration of the Health Unit, for whatever reason, has decided it does not cooperate with other agencies and other political entities in the region.” If they are not helping us, they are contributing to the public’s cynicism about this crisis because there is a terrible lack of transparency, he said. Mayor Larry Snively said he took part in a meeting regarding the Coronavirus earlier that day. He agrees, Council should know what it has in Essex and Harrow. The
Delivering Your Weekly
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region is not going into Phase 3 anytime soon, not with the positive numbers, he believes. Snively said he was a witness at a shopping centre recently, but would not identify the town. He said there were a lot of migrant workers at this shopping centre. Outside the door entrance, half had masks on and half did not. The ones who went inside the store wore masks. He provided this information to the Health Unit. Enforcement, he said, is very important and critical. Council carried Bondy’s motion and will also send the letter to other municipalities in the region for support. Procedural Bylaw Amendments and Consolidation approved Seeking to consolidate recent amendments made to Bylaw 1681, as well as to capture various other minor housekeeping changes intended to eliminate inconsistencies or to clarify wording regarding procedure of municipal meetings, Council approved Bylaw 1926, which also seeks to allow more flexibility with delegations. “This is a consolidation of a result of some amendments over the last year or so,” Town Solicitor, Robert Auger, said, adding that these amendments have allowed for residents to become delegates after the publication of town meeting agendas. These included the consolidation of Bylaws 1784, 1788, and 1902, which has allowed Council to meet for quorum during a Declared State of Emergency. These new provisions
go on to state that it may be possible for Council members (but not Committee and Board Members) to participate electronically in meetings outside of a declared emergency, but such participation would be limited to personal emergencies and the electronic participation would not count towards quorum. Also amended was the requirement of Youth Councillors to be representative of the Town’s Wards, whereas before they could reside anywhere in the municipality, now one must be from Ward 1 or 2, and the other from Ward 3 or 4. Bylaw to Delegate the Duties and Powers of Council adopted Much like Bylaw 1926, Bylaw 1924 consolidates several bylaws pertaining to the delegation of municipal council’s duties. The changes now proposed in Bylaw 1924 addresses changes as a result of the recent organization review process together with additional requested changes by Administration for the purposes of facilitating the operations of the municipality. Some of these approved changes include the requirement for the primary delegated authority to consult with various other members of administration; Letters of Support has been amended to include Administrative Approvals, including
I Thursday, July 23, 2020
cannabis retail store applications and liquor license applications, in accordance with Town policies to be developed or approved by Council; and for the Heritage Grant Program to add delegating primary authority to the Manager of Planning Services, and secondary authority to the Director of Development Services.
NoM: notification to neighbours of new subdivisions re: potential water pooling Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche presented a Notice of Motion for Council to consider at the August 4 meeting. His Notice of Motion is that Council request the Town of Essex Planning Department to include, as part of its site plan control procedures, notification to property owners abutting a new subdivision regarding potential for water pooling, if the existing property owners lack rear-yard drainage. He will also ask that these neighbours are notified by direct mail, so existing properties have full comprehension of potential outcomes, and that the Town of Essex will act in residents’ best interest with aiding conversations between builders and existing neighbourhood and come to a solution in regards to rear-yard drainage. For more Council news, check out the article “Council reviews election policies and procedures.”
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For Entertainment Purposes Only! ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, an opportunity to overcome past injustices or things you may have felt you did wrong presents itself this week. It may arrive out of the blue, but you won’t miss it. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Don’t be surprised if an old friend calls you this week and wants to catch up. Expect to reconnect as if no time has passed since your most recent encounter. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Try developing a project in secret and
working out the kinks before you bring others in on the plan, Gemini. Conduct several trial runs before going forward. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, when people come to you for advice, it can feel gratifying that others revere you for your expertise and knowledge. This validates your insights. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, you feel rewarded after helping people, even if you do not get paid for your service. Your naturally generous spirit can be rewarded in different ways.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Financial matters take a positive spin, Libra. This means you can indulge in some creature comforts that may have been out of reach. Enjoy this good fortune. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, do not be afraid to be passionate at some point this week. Whether it is a pet project or a relationship, approach it with renewed passion. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, if you are single, now may be a time when you spot someone new in the neighborhood who could be a match. Couples will strengthen their relationships.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 You have a method of expressing yourself that garners many admirers, Capricorn. Keep up the good work and allow others to express themselves as well. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Keep a conversation flowing with a lot of great ideas, Aquarius. Avoid falling too far into daydreaming mode so you can serve
as the catalyst for great conversation. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Shy away from familiar activities and try something completely new, Pisces. Study something you have always enjoyed or try a new hobby. ANSWERS ON PAGE 15
Thursday, July 23, 2020 I
News I 9
Essex Free Press
County Council property and liability insurance coverage has a $91,000 increase by Sylene Argent At the regular meeting hosted virtually last Wednesday evening, County Council received information about the details of the insurance program proposal submitted by AON Risk Solutions, for the period of June 30, 2020 to June 30, 2021. Sandra Zwiers, Director of Financial Services/Treasurer, said the purpose of bringing this matter forward was to make County Council aware of the purchase of the comprehensive insurance program coverage. This will cost the County of Essex $953,372, plus applicable taxes. CAO Robert Maisonville approved the insurance coverage on June 29. At the June 17 meeting, she noted, a motion was passed to delegate the authority to approve the program to the CAO. At the last Council meeting, she added, administration was unable to prepare a report on the matter because complete information had not been obtained for a recommendation on program renewal. The recommended insurance program renewal represents an increase of $91,356 in insurance premiums, as well as additional costs related
to increased deductible levels, which will be influenced by the number of claims arising during the program period, the Report to County Council notes. “To say this renewal was a challenge is an understatement. Both the CAO and I have not experienced a renewal as challenging as this one,” Zwiers said, adding the program she presented met the County’s insurance requirements. Zwiers said there has been a continued hardening of the market, which means a number of carriers have exited municipal business. Most, if they remained in the industry, have tightened their risk and are changing some of their programs to reflect the continued pressure on the industry in respect to municipal liability. The program presented, she said, maintains coverage limits on a global level. There were some changes made to the sublimit coverage. Overall, global coverage of $50M in coverage has been maintained, she said. With respect to deductible limits, Zwiers said, historically, the County of Essex had self-insured retention of $25,000 per occurrence or claim, which means the County would have to pay
the first $25,000 in costs before program coverage would kick-in. That deductible was changed through this program up to $100,000. “I recognize that is a significant increase compared to what we were used to,” Zwiers said, adding she did poll uppertier peers from across the province and learned a $25,000 deductible is growing to be quite rare. The $100,000 deductible level is in line with what most upper-tier municipalities have been paying. She said there are upper tier governments across the province paying
July 15 to 31
Continued on Page 11
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Thursday, July 23, 2020
I
Community / News I 11
Essex Free Press
Essex County Library offering curbside pickup
Photo Courtesy of Essex County Library: Manuela Denes, Community Services Manager at Essex County Library, smiles for a photo.
by Julianna Bonnett As of July 15, the Essex County Library has been offering curbside pickup and mail delivery to accommodate its cardholding members. The decision to provide these services came after representatives of the Essex County Library closed its local branches on March 16, due to the COVID-19
County Council property and liability insurance coverage increase... Continued from Page 9
far in excess of $100,000. Overall, she said, this program is increasing just over $91,000, to a total program cost of $953,372. Two-thirds of that increase, Zwiers said, relates to general liability coverage. The balance, she said rests with the automotive program. Room for an increase in insurance in the 2020 budget was added, Zwiers said, but only for 5 percent, which is just shy of half of the actual increase. Administration will monitor insurance program costs for the balance of the year, and if necessary, will recommend any deficits be covered by a transfer from the Corporation’s Contingency Reserve. LaSalle Mayor Marc Bondy said liability is a big part of the premium, and that is where County Warden Gary McNamara, and his fellow wardens from across the province, need to pounce on the provincial legislators so joint and several liability can be changed. He knows McNamara has spoken on this issue before, but the hammer has to come down because it is affecting all lower-tier municipalities. He said it is getting to the point where taxes are raised to cover this. “We have to put an end to this sometime,” Bondy said. Deputy Mayor of Essex, Richard Meloche, said, by looking at the report, some of the deductibles are still staying at $25,000. Zwiers said the $25,000 deductible will apply for cyber insurance, which was increased from $10,000. Also, the auto deductible is remaining at $25,000. An example that would trigger a $100,000 deductible, she added, would include a slip and fall. McNamara agreed pressure needs to be put on the government to finally do something about joint and several liability.
pandemic. At this time, they found they were able to make the necessary adjustments, so members could still get the reserved books they have been waiting for, while practising social distancing. According to Robin Greenall, CEO of the Essex County Library, staff members have made the needed adjustments to continue to serve their community. “We have adjusted our services to maintain the health and safety of our staff and provide our residents access to our collections, resources, and programs,” Greenall said. “I am proud of our teams, as they continue to develop creative, new programs and services to maintain a connection with our communities.” While libraries are still closed to the public, Essex County Library is offering books, magazines, DVDs,
online learning programs, Facebook live events, and is also offering a collection of seeds to choose from. “With our seed garden, we had people put in requests and [then we] sent them a variety of our seed packets. Later this summer, we’ll be doing some video and live events with local gardeners talking about collecting seeds, saving, and then returning some to the library. We’ll have seeds available again next year,” Manuela Denes said, who is the Community Services Manager at the library. Denes added that “Make & Take” kits have also been created, which parents can request for their kids. These kits include crafts and activities for each week. For more information on what is being offered, check out essexcountylibrary.ca.
12 I Classifieds / News Essex Free Press
Classifi Classi fieds
CLASSIFIED RATES
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
Fax: 519.776.4014
Word Ads - 25 words or less ........................ $6.00 + HST Extra words .................................................... 20¢/word Display Classifieds ....................................... Call for rates
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FARMING _____________________ WANTED Farm Land to Rent Cash or Share Crop Call Jeff Siefker (cell) 519-796-1240 or (home) 519-776-9501.
SERVICES _____________________
SERVICES _____________________
HELP WANTED _____________________
WANTED _____________________
MARTY’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIRS Tune-ups, repairs, & service on snowblowers, riding lawn mowers, chainsaws, & more! 519-733-0986, (c) 519-965-5918. 4-tfn
KENNETH YARDWORKS Spring Clean Up. Sod, mulch, eavestrough cleaning and repairs, power washing. Trees & bushes trimmed or removed. Loads to the dump. Fully licensed & insured. Free estimates. Call Kenneth: 519-982-0362.
HIRING! LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE and LANDSCAPE LABOURERS, $18/hour, Experience necessary. Fax your resume to (519) 723-2336. 1-tf _____________________
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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- $14.20. To apply please email: katie@policellafarms.com Or Mail to Domric International, PO Box 218, Ruthven ON N0P 2G0. 24/tfn _____________________
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 _____________________ WANTED - Buying for Cash GOLD + STERLING JEWELRY, ALL COINS - Mint sets + Loose Coins, Windup Watches, Military Items. KEEP AD for 10% extra with this ad! Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed.52 yrs Exp. House calls available. 519-8181805.
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FOR RENT
_____________________ GARAGE FOR RENT - 245 Talbot St. South, Essex, Ontario. Available August 25-7t 1, 2020. Call: 519-326-3594. _____________________
STORAGE
_____________________ STORAGE FOR LEASE - in Essex. Approx. 1 acre outdoor, fenced-in storage. Call: 519-776-4875 for details. 02-1t _____________________
HELP WANTED
_____________________ HELP WANTED: Aphria Inc. is looking for Greenhouse Production Associates to join their team. Duties include daily crop maintenance, harvesting, crop rotation, inventory counts, and cleaning of greenhouse. No public transportation available. Located in Leamington, ON. Compensation starts at $14.00/hour. Full time hours Monday through Friday. Please apply at careers@aphria.com or mail resume to P.O. Box 20009 269 Erie 9-t St. S. Leamington, ON N8H 3C4.
REAL ESTATE
_____________________ Buying or selling a farm? Do you know the right questions and answers? Farm Experienced Realtor Carl Idzinski, Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty - Brokerage. 519-817-8891. 22-tt _____________________
WANTED
_____________________ CASH PAID for scrap cars and trucks. Free removal. Please phone: 519-776-1361 or 519-791-5046. 46-t
Sell It! Find it! Rent It! Buy It! In The Classifieds 519-776-4268
Councillor Joe Garon said this report is a good start. He thinks the Town is doing its best to tighten up policies and make candidates accountable. No one policy, no matter how comprehensive, will be able to capture and interpret all potential scenarios. “We can make all the changes we want, but if we can’t enforce it, and there’s no penalties behind it, then it is all for not,” Garon noted. He asked, for instance, what penalties should be issued for violations. Although Auger recommended a retainer for signs, which sounds good, but Garon believes some may forfeit dollars in an attempt to get more votes. Signs, are not nearly effective as going to the door and knocking on them, he said. He would be okay with doing away with signs all together. Councillor Vander Doelen said a lot of loose ends seem to be tied up with the coming reports. He does find it strange that Auger said if there are complaints, whether they are founded or not, something has to be done. If a complaint is unfounded, it should be dismissed. He didn’t see anything to oppose in regards to the minor tweaks recommended. As a reporter, he said, he covered likely 50 elections and doesn’t think there was one election were sign complaints did not come forward. Some will try to break sign rules. He suggested policing the issue. Mayor Larry Snively, when calling upon Councillor Sherry Bond to speak to the issue said she was, “Smiling ear to ear to ear to ear. You can’t wait to get to the media, so you are next.” Bondy has been vocal about the proxy issue. Bondy responded she believed that comment was uncalled for as the media call her and Councillor Vader Doelen about the issue.
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YARD SALE
_____________________ MOVING & YARD SALE - 1236 County Rd. 46, Woodslee, On. July 25th from 9am - 5pm. 29-t
Sell It! Find it! Rent It! Buy It! in The Classifieds
519-776-4268
19-11
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AUCTION SALE
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Jack Morris
Auc ons Inc.
Farm Machinery Auc on Sale Online Only for Robinson Farms, c/o Doug Robinson. Well cared for stored inside equipment located at 2517 Talbot Trail, approx. 11 km east of Wheatley. Auc on begins to close Friday, August 7 at 6:00 pm Preview from Jul 27 to Aug 1 – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm We will be assisted by Jacob Auc ons. Bidding opens Fri. July 31. Catalogue and bidding will be at jacobauc ons.hibid.com Proprietor: Doug Robinson, 519-324-6876 Auc oneer: Jack Morris, 519-687-2530 Details & photos at www.jackmorrisauc ons.com
Council reviews election policies and procedures... there was (and remains) an ongoing investigation into alleged Municipal Election Act offence surrounding the use of proxy vote/proxy vote forms during the 2018 election, but noted the Town of Essex does not have a lot of control over proxy forms and processes as they are mandated by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and by the Municipal Elections Act. While the proxy voting process set out by the Town to date follows those guidelines, a number of complaints were received during the last election. This required staff to review the matter further. Whether or not the complaints received are founded or unfounded, the fact the complaints were received, Auger believes the Town needs to put in increased controls over and above what is required. This will require support from the Province. The Clerk’s office did suggest, through the Report to Council, that for the next municipal election, the Clerk’s Office will only issue the required proxy vote form directly to qualified electors, who wish to appoint another person to vote on their behalf. If the qualified elector is not able to attend Town Hall to obtain the required form, then it may be mailed directly to the elector’s address. This report is a framework for going forward, Auger said. The report adds that in September, a new Election Complaints Policy will come forward. In September/ October, a new “Use of Corporate Resources Policy” with adopting Bylaw will be presented to Council. In October/November, a new Election Sign bylaw with Election Sign permit provisions will be presented. And, in December, a revised Municipal Election Procedures Policy with additional Emergency guidelines and additional proxy vote procedures will come forward.
I Thursday, July 23, 2020
Continued from Page 10
Bondy said she likes going to the polling stations. The more opportunities given to people to vote, the better. In the next election, she would like to see advanced polls in McGregor and Colchester in addition to the ones held in Essex and Harrow Centres. She would also be in favour of hiring extra staff to police signs if needed. She said there was confusion in the last election when it comes to signs. She thinks that if administration have to confiscate a sign because it was put in an illegal area, that sign should be confiscated. She also thinks the Town website should have an election offender’s list, which may deter candidates from breaking the rules. In terms of the proxy votes, she would love to send a letter to the province soon to note the Town of Essex wants to make proxy sheets only available at the Clerk’s Office. Councillor Steve Bjorkman said there needs to be rules to follow and repercussions for not following them. He likes the idea of a stand alone sign bylaw because it could be tied to provincial and federal elections. This would create consistency and make it easier to follow. Bjorkman said if a candidate stood in front of a gateway sign to note he or she wants to be mayor of the Town, it is a public sign and he does not see any reason to not be able to do that. Councillor Morley Bowman said election signs have been an issue for many years. The thing that should be remembered are they are tools for elections. The idea to tighten regulations tends to make it more palatable for everyone.
Thursday, July 23, 2020 I
News I 13
Essex Free Press
County Council awards County Road 2 CWATS bid - tender to be issued for County Road 22 stress joints by Sylene Argent County Council awarded the construction of the CWATS Active Transportation Facility, to be established along County Road 2 in the Town of Lakeshore, to Amico Infrastructures Inc., for a total tender amount of $1,958,599, plus HST. These costs include the road and the CWATS portion of the project. The CWATS portion is cost-shared, with 40percent coming from the County of Essex and
60percent from the Town of Lakeshore. The decision was made at the County Council meeting held virtually last Wednesday evening. Amico Infrastructure’s bid was the lowest of six bids on this file. Jane Mustac, County Engineer, said the project includes road rehabilitation from Patillo Road to East Pike Creek Road on County Road 2, paved shoulders on both sides of the road, and a multi-use trail on the
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south-side of the road. This is the third and final phase. “With the approval of these last two kilometers, it is a total of 5.1km of facility [that] will be completed,” Mustac said, adding the County of Essex has been completing traffic counting at this location since the initial stages. “I am happy to report it is definitely a ‘build it and they will come’ scenario.” In 2017, 59 users were counted in an eight-hour period. As of the week prior to this meeting, 320 users have been noticed in the same eight-hour period. The work is expected to commence within two weeks, and hopefully will be completed in this calendar year, Mustac said. Robert Maisonville, CAO of the County of Essex, also spoke about the recent stress fracture of concrete on County Road 22 in Lakeshore. “Unfortunately, we have seen these stresses in various stages on a section of County Road 22 as well as County Road 11,” he said, adding he suggested County Council issue a tender to put some stress joints in those spaces before additional popping of concrete is experienced.
Maisonville noted this would not be a typical process, but given the time and the number of meetings these local decisionmakers meet over the summer, administration was hoping to get the tender out that week. He said administration was looking for a quick turnaround to address the risk and to take advantage of the timeframe of fewer vehicles on the road, especially if school buses will be back in operation this fall. Maisonville was asking that a tender outside the bounds of County Council be approved, prior to the next meeting in August. He was given the authority to do that through the COVID-19 emergency, although this is not related to the pandemic or flooding, he said it is an emergency in regards to road structure. A full report will come to County Council, which will highlight the
results of the tender and the background on why the buckling is happening. Deputy Mayor of Lakeshore, Tracey Bailey, said she appreciates the proactive stance on the
matter. Essex Mayor Larry Snively’s view is this situation is something that has to be moved on quickly, before someone gets hurt.
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14 I Personals Essex Free Press
FromThe Heart
To place a personal notice, email your photo and content to contact@essexfreepress.com or drop by our office at 16 Centre St., Essex. Personal notices must be received by Monday at 12:00 noon to appear in the Thursday edition.
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RETIREMENT
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IN LOVING MEMORY
CINDY MCLELLAN! Enjoy your retirement Grandma! Love always, Nolan and Dylan _______________________________________________
BIRTHDAY ANNOUNCEMENT
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5th – July 21 21, 2020 –
Kacie Pueschel You now belong to the
cute and famous club! Love You - Mémé
I Thursday, July 23, 2020
Voice Of Inspiration “You never know what’s around the corner. It could be everything. Or it could be nothing. You keep putting one foot in front of the other, and then one day you look back and you’ve climbed a mountain.”
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OBITUARIES
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MAROTTE, Dominique “Dom” - Passed away on July 10, 2020 at the age of 62. Beloved husband of Jacquelyn (nee Pritchard) for 40 years. Loving father of Joshua (Antonella), Robin Marotte and Alexa Ismail (Mohammad). Adored Grampa of Anthony, Dominic, Zain as well as J and Chloe. Dom is survived by his mother, Liliane, (nee Denis) and predeceased by his father, Gerard (2019). Brother of Didier (Lynda) and Michael (Natalie), and brother-in-law of Kim Pritchard (Larry Bromaroff ) and Matthew Pritchard (Ingrid). Dom is also survived by many aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews in Canada and Europe. Dom worked as a Shift Engineer at Windsor Regional Hospital - Ouellette Campus for 20 years. Dom was a skilled Archer, avid hunter and fisherman. He was the founder of BoneZone and he is recognized for his conservation efforts on his “Wild Thing” farm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dom’s memory to the Hospice of Erie Shores or to Myeloma Canada. Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Dom’s life will take place late summer. Arrangements entrusted to SIMPLE CHOICE (Kingsville) 519-254-2585. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with www.simplechoicecremation.ca.
~ Tom Hiddleston *************************
“Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree.” ~ Martin Luther _________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________
IN LOVING MEMORY
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Matthew Joseph Brown July 24, 1973 - June 20, 1992 Happy Birthday in Heaven. When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand; The angel said my place was ready, in heaven far above, And that I’d have to leave behind, all those I dearly love. But when I walked through heaven’s gates, I felt so much at home. For God looked down, smiled at me, and told me “Welcome home.” So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart. For everytime you think of me, I’m right there in your heart. ~ Mom & Dad, Dave (Fran), Mike (Shelley), Leigh (Ron), and Families ___________________________________________
In Loving Memory of
Carchedi - Giuseppe (Joey) April 5th, 1978 - July 24th, 1982 Time slips by and life goes on. But from our hearts, you’re never gone. We talk about you always, we think about you too. We have so many memories, but we wish we still had you. ~ Forever in our hearts and sadly missed. ~ - Love, Mom, Dad, Paula, Guilia, and Tony ___________________________________________
In Loving Memory of
Joanne McCann July 23, 2014
May the winds of heaven, blow softly and whisper in your ear. How much we love and miss you and wish you were here. ~ Lovingly remembered & greatly missed. ~ - Mac and Family
OBITUARIES
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ROUNDING, Percy - May 14, 1950 - July 12, 2020 - It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Percy at home, with his loving wife, Marilyn, by his side, on Sunday, July 12, 2020. Son of the late Shorty and Raymond Rounding. Cherished father Casey (Kathy), Cory, Terry (Jeanine), Amanda (Jack) and Jamie. Proud grandfather to Caleb, Kaila, Cohen, Tessa, Alice, Keith, Calvin, Jaclyn, Dylan and Nicky. Brother to Shirley (the late Leon), Gord (Robin), Jo-Anne (Ray), Debbie (Rick), and Rob (Cheryl). Brother-in-law to Patsy (the late Dave), Beverly (Val), Carolyn (Gerry), the late Ronnie, Margaret (Larry), and Barbie (Dick). Percy will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, co-workers, and friends. Percy was a proud member of Local 444 and worked at Chryslers for 40 years. He and Marilyn travelled frequently and spent many summers at Ravine Cottages with many good friends. Arrangements entrusted to Victoria Greenlawn Funeral Home, Oldcastle. Cremation has taken place. A private family Service and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In kindness, donations may be made in Percy’s name to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.victoriagreenlawnfuneral.ca.
What’s Going On... JULY 28 - BELLE RIVER BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - St Simon & St Jude Parish Hall, 267 Meunier Street, Belle River.1-7pm - Make an appointment at: www.blood.ca. AUG. 11 - ESSEX BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - Essex Masonic Lodge - 30 Laird Ave., Essex.1-7pm - Make an appointment at: www.blood.ca. AUG. 19 - AMHERSTBURG BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - AMA Sportsmen Association 436 Lowes Side Rd, Amherstburgx.1-7pm - Make an appointment at: www.blood.ca. HIATUS HOUSE: offers counselling services in Essex County. Women’s Fresh Start group therapy is once a week. For info or to schedule an intake appointment, call the 24-hour Hiatus House helpline at 519-252-7781. SUN COUNTY LYME AWARENESS SUPPORT GROUP offers monthly support for Lyme disease patients, family, & friends. Look us up on Facebook for updates.
Thursday, July 23, 2020 I
Community Hub I 15
Essex Free Press
sponsorship by:
further notice. Please call 519-776-7711 for more details As we continue to navigate through this difficult time, know that we are still hard at work to provide you with the spiritual resources that you need. Visit our website (www. stpaulstrinity.org), social media or contact us by phone at: 519-776-7711. Stay safe and we hope to see you soon.
Holy Name of Jesus Parish Church submitted by Wendy Cunningham
Fresh food. Friendly neighbours 191 Talbot St. S., Essex
519-776-4255 Salvation Army Essex Church submitted by Carolyn Barnett
The Salvation Army Food Bank is operated by appointment only. Please call Vicki at 519-776-4628 to make arrangements. All other programs and Sunday services are still on hold due to the pandemic. Please continue to pray for all those affected by COVID-19.
Essex Christian Reformed Church submitted by Beverley Van Huizen
Churches are a place where people gather. During this time, we are following what the government is asking all of us to do, and cancel church services and activities for the next few weeks. This includes our monthly Free Movie Night Event, and GEMS & Cadets nights. We encourage all to keep in contact with each other through telephone calls or texting. If you would like to live stream a worship service see www.chathamgrace.com The service will begin at 10:00 am. During these uncertain times let us keep calm and focus our eyes looking to our Risen Lord! Visit Essex CRC online to listen to a past sermon or two. www.essexcrc.ca
St. Paul’s Anglican Church At the instruction of the Bishop of Huron, all public services and gatherings at the church have been suspended until
We welcome Fr. Seejo as our parish administrator. Our Church is now open at regular Mass times and at 30% capacity. It is a first come, first serve, basis. Enter only at the back entrance of the Church. Ushers will guide you in the church. There are reserved spots for handicapped. Daily Masses are at 8:30 a.m. from Tuesday to Friday followed by Adoration until 10a.m. Please enter from the Fairview Ave. doors only. Face masks are strongly recommended. Please see full details on the guidelines to attend from our website at www.hnj.dol.ca. If you have moved or gotten rid of your landline or if you have an e-mail please let the parish office know in order to keep an up to date parishioner list. Please stay healthy and stay safe!
Maidstone Cross submitted by Wendy Cunningham
Our Family of Parishes will begin on September 1st. The St. Mary’s Golf Tournament has been cancelled this year. Thank you to all of our front line workers who are keeping us safe. Please keep in your prayers and all the people who are sick, shut-in, and in Hospice. Please stay healthy and safe!
The Essex Area Food Bank is available to anyone who needs assistance at this time in the gym, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Hours open 8:30 - 11:45am. Brooker News submitted by Ruth Newman
Weather permitting, a Church service is planned for this Sunday, July 26. We will gather at the home of Ruth Newman at 10am for a service in her backyard, under the trees. We welcome anyone who desires to come. Please bring a lawn chair and respect social distancing and a mask for close contact. Rob Cornies will bring the message. It is so refreshing to worship in God’s great outdoors. We have much to be thankful for. Please pray for our leaders, the healthcare workers, the many who are ill, those in nursing homes, and Hospice.
Bethel-Maidstone United
The church and building are currently closed for services, meetings, and rentals until further notice. We encourage you to listen to Rev. Paul’s weekly podcast. It can be found at: www.radiopublic.com/white-collar-a-different-type-85AnBN We anticipate having news in the coming weeks of how we plan to resume services. Stay tuned! Messages and emails are checked on Thursdays. Our contact info is : bmuc@xplornet.ca or (519) 723-2284. You can find us on the web at www.bethelmaidstone.com.
Woodslee United Church submitted by Sue Holman
Regular Church Service as been cancelled. If you miss a mass service, please go to our website: Woodsleepatoralcharge.ca. Click on ‘Sermon’ and hear Rev. Carl’s spiritual message. Please stay safe and know that God loves you.
Trinity Church
Harrow United Church submitted by Larry Anderson
Please visit our website for updated messages on when services will begin. Our Minister, Rev. Darrow Woods, along with our HUC faith community, sincerely welcome you to join us! www.harrowunited.org.
Essex United Church Essex United is looking toward a September re-opening. There are many guidelines and protocols to put in place and we want to do it right, and what is best for our congregation.
We hope all our church family is well. Let’s keep each other in our prayers, while we are apart. Rev. Chris is doing a great job as she continues to give us our Sunday service and keeps us in tune with lovely music. Stop by the outdoor library and pick up a book to enjoy. Keep in touch with each other and stay healthy and safe until we can be together again. A message from “The Little White Church” in the Cemetery in Cottam.
Activity Page Solutions....
Continued from Page 8
Exercise The Mind: SOLUTIONS
16 I Business Directory Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 23, 2020
REAL ESTATE
PLUMBING • GAS FITTING
CUSTOM KITCHEN CABINETS
REAL ESTATE
ROOFING
LOCKSMITHS
FOUNDATION REPAIR
REAL ESTATE
PLUMBING • HVAC
SERVING YOU SINCE 1974
Plumbing • Heating • HVAC Services • 238 Talbot St. W. Leamington
519-326-9018
www.grossiplumbing.ca grossi@grossiplumbing.ca
PLUMBING
COMMERCIAL PRINTING
TRUCKING & EXCAVATING
HEATING & COOLING
FOUNDATION REPAIRS
PLUMBING/HEATING Wayne Warkentin
Don’t you deserve the best price, service and quality?
RVICE WE NOW SEES & ALL MAK HOME F MODELS ONCES APPLIA
Water Proofing Slabjacking Wall Reinforcing Foundation Repairs
Free Estimates, Guaranteed Work
723-2300
www.soullieresolutions.com
Chris Warkentin
PLUMBING • HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING
GEOTHERMAL • REFRIGERATION
PLUMBING SHOWROOM • Residential • Commercial • Installations
FREE ESTIMATES 54 Mill St. E., Kingsville warkentinplumbing.ca
519-733-5832
Thursday, July 23, 2020 I
News / Business Directory I 17
Essex Free Press
Town of Essex launches business directory in partnership with local newspapers submitted to EFP This week, the Town of Essex launched a new business directory designed to help local businesses communicate how their operations have changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The directory, which will offer free listings to Town
of Essex businesses, was developed in partnership with The Essex Free Press and The Harrow News. “The Town of Essex is lucky to have not one, but two, local newspapers that are dedicated to serving our community,” said Mayor Larry Snively. “This partnership reflects Council’s desire to support these newspapers and ensure businesses get the word out to residents who may not have access to a computer or the internet.” Earlier this year, Town Council sent a letter to Andrew MacCleod, President of the PostMedia Network, urging the company to reconsider its recent decision to stop publishing a number of local weekly newspapers. The free business directory will be published in the first issues of The Essex Free Press and Harrow News in August. The directory is also tentatively scheduled to run in the September and October issues.
The directory is another effort to support local businesses throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The Town has also launched an Online Business Map, a Digital Growth Grant, and a Relaunch Grant. Local business owners are invited to submit their listing to the directory online at www.essex. ca/DirectorySubmissions or by printable form. Submissions must be made by July 29 at Noon.
DUST CONTROL
LANDSCAPING
LANDSCAPING
WINDOWS & DOORS
INSURANCE
FINANCIAL
ACCOUNTING
ACCOUNTING BAKER TILLY TRILLIUM LLP 203 TALBOT ST. W., LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 1N8
RON VANDERVECHT, CPA, CA
PARTNER
T 519.326.2666 F 519.326.7008 C 519.324.7832 E rvandervecht@bakertilly.ca W www.bakertilly.ca
ACCOUNTING
HICKS, MACPHERSON, IATONNA & DRIEDGER LLP. Chartered Professional Accountants Tyler Hicks Heather MacPherson Lindsay Iatonna Tim Driedger Ashley Meyer P.O. Box 189, 49 Erie St. N., Leamington, Ontario N8H 3W2 Phone 519-326-2681 • Fax 519-326-8044 • www.hmid.ca
LAWYER
ACCOUNTING
18 I Opinion / News Essex Free Press
I Thursday, July 23, 2020
Premier Doug Ford announces additional support for farmers Windsor-built 1939 DeSoto coupe
Photo submitted.
Tom Kayser’s 1939 DeSoto coupe.
Tom Kayser of Truro, Nova Scotia, is the proud owner of an original 1939 DeSoto coupe with 71,000 carefully driven miles purchased last year from its previous owner in Tottenham, Ontario. Upon arrival, Tom performed some mechanical and cosmetic work, including new red pin-striping on the wheels that harmonize nicely with those beautiful wide whitewalls. Tom points out that 1939 was the first year DeSoto had headlights in the front fenders and the last year when the headlights had rectangular glass. It was also the first year that DeSoto came with the gear shift on the steering column. Other noteworthy features included independent front suspension and 4-wheel hydraulic brakes introduced by Walter P. Chrysler in 1924 on the first car bearing his name. Tom Kayser tells us what happened next. “In 1928, Mr. Chrysler introduced his entry into the low-price field, the Plymouth. In July of that year, he pulled off the business coup of the century: buying Dodge Brothers from a New York bank. Then on August 4th, Walter Chrysler introduced the new DeSoto. “While many parts were interchangeable between the 109-inch wheelbase Plymouth and the 119-inch wheelbase DeSoto, the feature that made DeSoto special was its six cylinder engine versus Plymouth’s four banger.” Under its hood, the new Desoto six cylinder flathead engine had 93 horsepower. A 2-passenger business coupe was available and also a coupe for 2-4 passengers with opera seats in the back. As Tom points out, “car buyers were becoming increasingly dissatisfied with the familiar coupe, commonly two- or three-passenger cars with a rumble seat or trunk. The rumble seat was nearly always a windy and dangerous place. “The answer was to extend the roof line and add auxiliary folddown seats. Known as the Club Coupe, it was the beginning of a new era in car design under the direction of Chrysler’s noted classic car designer, Raymond Dietrich.” With its serial number 9669022C, we believe Tom Kayser’s Windsorbuilt DeSoto was the last one off the line for 1939. I’m always looking for stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico. ca.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford, after touring Essex County, announced the Ontario government will expand the Risk Management Program a year earlier than planned. This will total $150 million annually. A news release posted to News Ontario adds around 80 percent of eligible commercial production in the cattle, hog, sheep, veal, grains and oilseeds, and edible horticulture sectors in Ontario is covered by the provincial Risk Management Program. The Premier made
the announcement with Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, while visiting Craven Farms near Chatham. A news release on the matter notes this funding supports farmers with unforeseen challenges, such as fluctuating market prices, extreme weather events – like flooding or drought, and disease. “Our government stands shoulder-toshoulder with our farmers during these unprecedented times. As we chart a path to recovery, we will be there for our farmers and their
workers to help them continue to put food on our tables,” Premier Ford stated in the news release. “We [are] committed to expanding this program in year 3 of our mandate, but we are delivering on that commitment a year earlier than promised to provide more stability, income security, and peace of mind for farmers, which is long overdue. I’m proud to say promise made, promise kept.” Ford began his Essex County Tour last Thursday by getting his haircut in Leamington.
Thursday, July 23, 2020 I
Community I 19
Essex Free Press
Open Air Weekends, a hit in Amherstburg
Artisan Grill’s outdoor dining experience was a popular weekend destination during Amherstburg’s “Open Air Weekends” event.
by Adam Gault Three weeks into hosting its “Open Air Weekends,” the Town of Amherstburg is pleased with the closed streets and open-air dining concept that has allowed numerous Dalhousie (and adjacent) Street eateries and businesses to once again serve guests in a safe and socially distanced manner. Unanimously approved by Amherstburg Council in June, pending the region’s approved advancement to Stage 2 of the Province’s reopening plans, the initiative has proved incredibly popular with business owners and visitors alike. “I think that the most compelling story about Open Air is the fact that businesses really collaborated to help each other with space and really making it work, especially under the provincial guidelines,” Amherstburg Tourism and Culture Manager, Anne Rota, said. “We could really see the businesses pulling together and wanting to
help each other.” Speaking to the issue of Windsor-Essex being held back from first entering Stage 2, and now Stage 3 when compared to the majority of Ontario, Rota explained that it was important to consider the direction of the WindsorEssex County Health Unit, along with the public’s safety to be the number one consideration as businesses continue with their reopening directions. “I believe we have to go with our scientific recommendations and our health unit recommendations,” Rota said. They (Kingsville and Leamington) are now at Stage 2, and I feel they’re doing very well. They might have missed a week or two, but they’re certainly catching up.” That feeling of optimism was shared by the businesses and employees throughout Amherstburg, with many expressing their excitement of being back at work and meeting old Continued on Page 20
20 I Community Essex Free Press
Open Air Weekends, a hit in Amherstburg... Pictured left: Representatives of the Amherstburg Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 157) were happy to serve members and guests once again over the weekend.
friends and new faces as the community continues its recovery to normality. “It’s amazing, people are so happy to get out. Just to have this space out here is awesome,
I Thursday, July 23, 2020
Continued from Page 19
people love sitting outside,” Jessica White said, an employee at Lot 10 Brewing Company, adding that the response from patrons has been nothing short of extreme positivity. “They’re thankful that we’re out here doing this. They’re so happy to be out having a drink and socializing again. People have been so happy and patient with getting used to things
outside, people have been awesome.” Open Air Weekends will run Friday through Sunday for the duration of summer, and will close Dalhousie street to vehicles between Rankin and the Royal Canadian Legion, along with the first block of Murray and Richmond Streets. Full details can be found online at visitamherstburg.ca