Essex Free Press - March 2, 2023

by Sylene Argent

As Heritage Week wrappedup, Heritage Essex hosted its 26th annual Train Show over the weekend, giving enthusiasts, youngsters, and the young at heart a chance to not only marvel at the intricate details of several interactive model train exhibits setup throughout Essex Public School as part of the event, they were also able to recognize a few local historical milestones.

Heritage Essex, which maintains the Essex Railway Station, hosts the annual Train Show as a fundraiser to continue operating the historic site. This was the first time the weekendlong event was able to take place since its 2020 installment, due to the pandemic.

“It was nice to be back and

see everyone,” Marnie Aldridge, Administrative Assistant at the Essex Railway Station, said. “Being here brings you back to your childhood.”

Often, grandparents take their grandkids out to the event to share with them a hobby they enjoyed in their youth.

The event, which is the largest of its kind in this end of the province, offered a vendor area; many of which sold model train pieces. It also welcomed three different organizations to set-up an array of exciting model train displays, which they allowed visiting youths to take the controls and operate.

“It is priceless to see the kids’ faces when they watch the model trains go around the track,”

Aldridge said.

Youths were also able to enjoy a story time, make a little train craft, colour, and play with puzzles onsite.

This year’s Train Show was special, as a few historical milestones were recognized, Aldridge noted.

The Canadian Southern Railway laid its tracks in Essex in 1872, before the village of Essex Centre was incorporated in January of 1884. A year later, the very first train came through town, which took place 150-years ago. Heritage

Essex is looking at putting something together to celebrate that this spring.

In addition, 135-years ago this past September, the original train station was built, which was later rebuilt after the 1907 railcar explosion.

Railway Station will get a little TLC this year. In the 2023 Budget, Essex Council allocated $45,000 for its chimney replacement, from the Asset Management Reserve.

by Sylene Argent

Last Wednesday’s winter ice storm certainly wreaked havoc on the municipality, as several hydro lines were brought down, leaving many without power; in some cases, for days. In addition, it damaged trees everywhere, leaving residents and Town of Essex staff cleaning after the winds calmed.

In assessing the community for damage Thursday, Mayor Sherry Bondy, who is also on the E.L.K. Board of Directors, said nearly everywhere she visited in Essex Centre that morning had tree branches everywhere and there were many downed hydro lines. While on Irwin Avenue, she said tree branches were crashing to the ground, under the weight of ice, as she inspected the area. Within the first

The Essex

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

INSIDE ESSEX COUNCIL NOTES...

• Performance Securities for Pollard Harrow Development reduced •

• Release of Securities, Assumption of Jakana Subdivision approved •

• Development in January down 65 % compared to same month in 2022 • 101 of 135 By-Law complaints from July to December fell under Property Standards • And More...

by Sylene Argent Harrow

Streetscape earns Award of Excellence

The Economic Development Council of Ontario recognized the Town of Essex with a 2022 Award of Excellence for the Harrow Streetscape project, under the building initiatives category for municipalities with a population under 100,000.

Administration for the Town of Essex, Nelson Silveira, Manager of Economic Development, explained, went to Toronto at the beginning of February to receive the award.

Mayor Sherry Bondy thanked administration and Town staff for their work on, and support for, the Harrow Streetscape.

“It really put Harrow on the map,” she said.

Business Retention and Expansion Survey results

Simon Webb, Manager of Economic and Policy Advisory for Deloitte LLP, presented the results of the Business Retention and Expansion Survey recently conducted with businesses throughout the municipality.

Nelson Silveira, Manager of Economic Development for the Town of Essex, explained this was a project the Town recently completed through the last Term of Council’s Strategic Master Plan. There are still some ongoing parts to it.

Webb said the survey is a quick, effective, and costefficient way to “take the pulse of your local business community and also see what trends are in the business community.”

Interviews were conducted as part of the process, primarily via telephone. They averaged around 10-minutes in length.

He noted a random sampling of 101 businesses was conducted. The total response rate was 32 percent, which he said was high in the market research industry.

The approach ensures the results have a high-level of accuracy, with a 9.9 percent margin of error at a 95 percent confidence level, and statistically represents the business community in the region, Webb claimed.

Over the past 12-months, 48 percent of businesses reported an increase in revenues, while 38 percent recorded a decrease.

Going through the survey results, Webb said over the next year, 59 percent of the businesses expect a higher revenue, while 33 percent are expecting a decrease.

Over the past 12 months, 25 percent noted its attitude about doing business in the town has been more positive, while 63 percent claimed to have remained the same, and 12 percent is more negative.

Over the past 12 months, 22 percent of businesses said the total number of employees increased, while 65 percent remained the same, and 13 percent decreased.

Thinking about the next 12 months, 29 percent of businesses expect the total number of employees to increase, while 69 percent predict that they will stay the same, and two percent believe it will decrease.

He said the Town of Essex scored a positive 0.53 percent in the Business Performance Forecast, which was created by combining the five performance questions. He said that is above average.

The net promoter score for Essex was 27 percent, as 89 percent of businesses interviewed noted they would either strongly or somewhat agree with the statement they would recommend the town to another business looking to expand or relocate.

When asked overall, how satisfied is the business with the Town of Essex as a place to own and operate a business, 50 percent were somewhat satisfied and 41 percent were very satisfied.

Priorities, based on the information gathered, the top three priorities include availability of adequate housing, availability of skilled labour, and affordability of commercial space for rent or lease.

Red flags discovered: 17 businesses considering relocating, downsizing, selling, or closing. This could include businesses whose lease expires in less than a year.

Green flags: 17 businesses considering expanding in the next two-years.

Next steps include follow up interviews. Once that is completed, a draft action plan will be completed, based on findings.

Councillor Katie McGuire-Blais asked if it could be differentiated how businesses from Harrow and Essex Centre responded, if one was more negative than the other.

Silveira explained the businesses surveyed were from all over the municipality, including McGregor and Colchester, and commercial and industrial. Webb said it is possible to determine how businesses in certain areas responded.

She also asked about the “red flag” businesses, and if there will be follow up to ensure they are getting what they need from the Town.

Silveira said they are currently finishing up the

Continued on Page 5

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Howling at the Moon

••• Comment by Sylene Argent ••• Weathering the storm

I hope everyone made it through last Wednesday’s wild winter ice storm unscathed. It will certainly be a day we will all remember for years to come.

I still remember that time back when I was a teenager in 2003 when the power went out for – I believe it was – three days. I do not remember it being a negative experience, though that time, it took place over the summer.

When our power went out on Wednesday evening, I really did not think much of it. I think many individuals expected that to happen at some point with the weather forecast, followed by the severity of the storm that came.

What did surprise me was that it was still out the next morning. I was sure I would awake to everything being back to normal Thursday morning, other than knowing we would have a fairly large mess to clean outside.

Our power came back on Thursday evening, but I know some were without through to Friday, and some still on Saturday.

The number one thought on my mind – as the hours ticked by with many still without power – were the elderly and young families, who rely on hydro.

I was grateful we experienced warmer weather the following day as the higher temperatures not only helped melt the ice on branches

that were struggling to support that additional weight, I am sure it helped keep homes a little less cold than if the temperature had remained lower.

During the storm on Wednesday, I could not help but feel sorry for all those who had to be out in that weather, including our paramedics, police, and firefighters, in addition to healthcare workers who were determined to get to their shifts.

Then, when the power went out, I felt for the hydro workers who, I am sure, would have much rather been at home, warm and safe.

It must have been a gnarly experience for our hydro workers and firefighters to be out there, combating the wind and ice, doing their part to keep others safe, all while risking their own safety. Being out in those conditions, and having to work in them, is not an easy thing and their efforts – and quite honestly their bravery – have not gone unnoticed. The appreciation level we all have for their efforts cannot be over-expressed.

With every single challenge we face, we can learn how to do better in the future. The truth is, no matter how much any one of us tries, we will never be fully prepared for everything.

I think a few things we can take away from last week’s winter storm is that we do need better communication. Mayor Bondy mentioned the need for a generator for E.L.K. so its phone

Earlier this month, the Ontario government touted a win when it announced that recipients of the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) could now earn more money from working, without their ODSP support being affected. But for Ontarians with the most severe disabilities, including amputees, it’s status quo amidst the skyrocketing cost of living.

What the government misses completely is that amputees receiving ODSP simply cannot work – let alone work more – without the artificial arms or legs needed for basic tasks, such as walking, dressing, or holding objects. Thanks to outdated funding models from the Ontario government, these crucial artificial limbs are often impossible to afford for ODSP recipients, leaving amputees literally without a leg to stand on.

While Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program (ADP) states “75 per cent coverage” for artificial limbs, this

lines can operate and I think that will go a long way to assist with a future event.

I have to wonder if a special deployment plan would work for hydro workers that would keep some of them home the day of a pending storm –when the probability of it happening is great – so they are rested to head out that night, and not working all day and then that night, as well.

We saw partnerships last week help alleviate the situation. Perhaps, if it does not exist yet, an emergency plan can be put together that - when activated - will call on contractors quickly to help out.

Getting portable generators for the Essex Centre Sports Complex and the Harrow Arena would also be beneficial to ensure there is an emergency shelter or warming station for those who go long periods of time without hydro, due to a weather crisis.

Just a few thoughts for the future. Being without power certainly makes us appreciate having it when it comes back on. I can’t tell you how many times I tried to flip on a light switch out of habit, even though I knew the power was out.

coverage is based on outdated prosthetic costs. In reality, ADP covers only about 20 per cent of the cost of an artificial limb for the average Ontarian.

As a first step to alleviate this double whammy against amputees, ODSP must be increased to be on par with other provinces. At a maximum of $1,228 per month, Ontario lags behind Quebec ($1,463), BC ($1,358), and Alberta ($1,685). Better still, the government must recognize that this amount is well below the poverty line and provide a living wage to all persons with disabilities and increased coverage for artificial limbs – it’s the least we owe to Ontario’s most vulnerable and in need.

Annelise Petlock Director of Advocacy for The War Amps Ontario

Essex Council meeting notes - Tuesday, February 21...

follow up interviews. That could include an expiring lease and helping them find a new space, if needed.

Councillor Joe Garon asked if the businesses surveyed offered services or sold products. Webb noted if the businesses proved permission to provide their contact, it can be identified which industry. He said they wanted to talk to varying types of industries.

He also asked how the businesses are selected. Webb said the directory is used and they are randomized for equal opportunity to be selected.

Council received the information. Performance Securities for Pollard Harrow Development reduced

Council approved the performance securities on file for the Pollard Harrow Development in Harrow be reduced to $100,000.

The Report to Council notes the Pollard Harrow Development is a 34-unit residential development located in the Harrow Primary Settlement area. The development was approved in 2019. All proposed dwellings have now been constructed and services have been installed. The development has not yet been assumed by the Town of Essex.

It adds performance securities in the amount of 50 percent of the value of the development are held to ensure due and proper performance of the works set out in the executed Development Agreement. The developer had provided cash in the amount of $269,625.25 prior to the construction of the required services.

Accordingly, securities in the amount of $169,625.25 will be returned to the developer. The Town will continue to hold back $100,000 to ensure all deficiencies are rectified. The remaining securities will be refunded when all outstanding works are completed and the Town

completes its final inspection. Release of Securities, assumption of Jakana Subdivision approved

Council approved reducing the performance securities on file for the Jakana Residential Subdivision to $51,957. 60, and adopted By-Law Number 2226, to acquire and assume lands for the purpose of dedication as a public highway.

The Jakana Subdivision is a 61-unit residential development located in the Essex Centre Primary Settlement Area. The development was approved in 2006. All proposed dwellings have now been constructed and services have been installed. The development has not yet been assumed by the Town of Essex.

Performance securities in the amount of 50 percent of the value of the development are held to ensure due and proper performance of the works set out in the executed Development Agreement, the Report to Council notes. The developer had provided cash in the amount of $197,087.47 prior to the construction of the required services.

It adds the performance securities may be reduced to the extent of the value of the work remaining as certified by the municipal engineer. Accordingly, securities in the amount of $145,124.87 will be returned to the developer. The Town will continue to hold back $51,957.60 for the surface asphalt and sidewalks. The remaining securities will be refunded to the developer following the completion of the one-year maintenance period for the surface asphalt and sidewalks on October 6, 2023.

All roads, underground infrastructure, curbs and base asphalt may now be assumed by the Town through adoption of By-law 2226, it adds.

Development in January down 65% compared to same month in 2022

Council received the Development Overview for the month of January. Total construction value for January 2023 – including all new and expanding commercial, industrial, institutional, and residential developments that required a building permit – was $5,092,100. This was down 65.5 percent compared to January 2022.

The average home sale price in January of 2023 in Wards 1 and 2 was $639,458, which was higher than the $521,020 recorded in January of 2022. The average home sale price in January of 2023 in Wards 3 and 4 was $486,000, which was significantly lower than the $769,500 recorded in January of 2022.

101 of 135 By-Law complaints from July to December fell under Property Standards Council received the Bi-Annual By-law Enforcement

Report, which Mike Diemer, By-Law Enforcement Officer, prepared.

By-law Enforcement conducted investigations on residential, agricultural, and commercial properties, from the beginning of July to the end of December. There were 135 issues; of which 122 were based on complaints received from members of the public and/or Council members, and 13 issues were investigated proactively.

Of those 135 issues, 122 have been resolved and 13 remain actively investigated.

101 of the complaints fell under Property Standards By-law 936. Property Standards issues have a widerange. The main offences consist of tall grass/weeds and debris on the exterior of properties, the Report to Council notes.

By-Laws for Kennel Licencing, and to regulate, license, and control animals adopted provisionally with changes

Council provisionally adopted By-Law Number 1966, to regulate, license, and control animals; in addition to By-Law Number 2221, to regulate and license dog kennels within the municipal boundaries of the Town of Essex.

Continued on Page 6

Pet Of The Week: Marbles

Marbles can report that she still has all her marbles and prefers the name ‘Boss Lady.’ She is in charge and expects total loyalty. Anything besides her head is strictly off-limits for scratches, and even then, that contact will be only on her terms. And another rule, no little kids. Fill out an application and she will determine if you’re to be hired.

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

Essex Council meeting notes - Tuesday, February 21...

Acting Clerk, Shelley Brown, explained the changes to both By-Laws.

Regarding the Animal Control By-Law, staff consolidated changes made over the last few years, including reducing the tethering limit from 10-hours to four-hours per day, and that one tag is issued for the lifetime of

updated standards of care for outdoor dogs, which came into force as an amendment to Ontario Regulation 444/19 under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act, 2019 (“PAWS”), on July 1, 2022. This Act sets the minimum standards for animal welfare in Ontario. Brown said the province

and herding dogs. The province wanted these two types of dogs exempt from the requirements to have the dog tag affixed to the dog’s collar at all times, due to safety concerns of the dog. In addition, the province wanted police working dogs and livestock guardian dogs exempt from the provisions relating to dangerous dog declarations, as they may be required to attack predatory animals, and in the case of police working dogs, humans, as part of their duties. There are provisions for excessive instances, she noted.

It also defined what “kept outdoors refers to,” and addresses standards of care for dogs kept outdoors. It also adds a definition for the Appeals

Committee. In addition, it gives owners 30-days to appeal after a Notice to Muzzle is issued. It allows owners of a dangerous dog to make an appeal for the suspension of a Notice to Muzzle one-year after its issuance, if proof has been provided that the dog has been rehabilitated.

The provision relating to persistent barking will stay with the Noise ByLaw.

Set fines have also been updated.

Kenneling Licensing is now a standalone ByLaw. This new By-Law addresses four types of kennel licenses: boarding kennels, breeding kennels, recreational kennels, and dog daycares.

This By-Law lays out general requirements for the premises and standards of care, and the grounds for refusing to issue or renew a kennel. It also defines what is required to obtain each type of kennel licence.

She said there are currently 15 registered kennels in Essex. They will be grandfathered in, but will need to comply with the By-Law by the end of year.

Both By-Laws will return for final adoption at a future Council meeting.

Second opposition letter to be sent to Kingsville re: proposed location of cell tower on County Road 23

Council voted to send a second opposition letter to

Kingsville regarding the proposed location of a cell tower on County Road 23.

CAO Doug Sweet noted in 2021, the previous Term of Essex Council sent a letter to Kingsville, opposing the location of a proposed telecommunications facility/cell tower on vacant land at the at the east-end of County Road 23. He said the location has since been moved a bit.

With Kingsville and Essex having new Councils, the recommendation is to send a similar letter.

Youth Council member appointed

After turning to the community in search of new, non-voting Youth Council members, Council appointed Lauryn Smith and Colin Pyne as Youth Council Members for the 2022-2026 Term of Council.

CAO Doug Sweet said this is a great way to get youths involved. They will undergo training in the near future.

Notice of Motion: requesting taxation bodies reinstate legislation allowing a municipality to apply for and retain the surplus proceeds from a tax sale postponed

At the February 6, 2023 Regular Council Meeting, Mayor Sherry Bondy presented a Notice of Motion

Continued from Page 5

for the February 21 meeting, asking Council to consider directing Administration to send a letter to all relevant taxation bodies, including the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and the Ministry of Finance, urging them to reinstate previous legislation (Municipal Act s. 388.2) that permitted a Municipality to apply for and retain the surplus proceeds from a tax sale in their jurisdiction. This matter was forwarded to the March 6 meeting.

Notices of Motion to be considered at the March 6 meeting:

Councillor Joe Garon will ask Council to direct Administration to provide a report on safety measures for the corner of South Talbot Road and Victoria Avenue, which may include lighting and adding a four-Way Stop. Councillor Rodney Hammond will ask Council to direct Administration to send a letter to MPAC, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, and any other relevant bodies, urging for them to investigate the tax classification of ShortTerm Rental Units, and consider taxing them as commercially instead of residentially.

Longwood to Lakeshore Project

Notice of Commencement of Terms of Reference and Invitation to Community Open Houses

Hydro One is initiating a Comprehensive Environmental Assessment (EA)1 for the Longwood to Lakeshore Project for two new single-circuit 500 kilovolt (kV) transmission lines between the Longwood Transformer Station (TS) located in the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc and the Lakeshore TS in the Municipality of Lakeshore. With energy demand in the region anticipated to quadruple by 2035, the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has identified the need for the first transmission line to be in-service by 2030 through their long-term planning. With such significant growth, the government of Ontario has advised Hydro One to concurrently conduct early development work on the second transmission line while the IESO further assesses the future energy needs of the region. This will allow for more efficient planning, as well as more meaningful and transparent consultation with Indigenous communities, residents, municipalities, and stakeholders.

Hydro One is committed to energizing life for communities, residents, and businesses in southwestern Ontario. For over 100 years, we’ve been powering the region and we will continue to provide safe and reliable power where and when it’s needed. This proposed project is part of a comprehensive network of electricity infrastructure in the southwest that will provide many regional benefits including: improved resiliency and reliability, economic growth and investments, and support for local food supply and security. For more information on all projects taking place in the region, you can visit HydroOne.com/Projects.

The Comprehensive EA Process

This Comprehensive EA1 will be carried out in accordance with the requirements of the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. The EA process ensures that potential natural, economic, social, and cultural effects are thoroughly considered before a project begins.

The first step of the Comprehensive EA1 process is the preparation of a Terms of Reference (ToR), which sets out the framework and workplan for addressing the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act requirements when preparing the EA. This includes outlining the studies and consultation activities to be completed, along with identifying alternative routes for the new lines within the study area, shown on the included map. Important aspects of the EA process include assessing potential effects of the new transmission lines, determining measures to avoid or mitigate these effects, and evaluating the alternative routes to select the preferred route for each line.

The anticipated submission date for the ToR is early 2024. A draft ToR will be made available for review prior to its final submission to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks for review and decision. If approved by the Minister, the ToR will provide the framework and requirements for the preparation of the EA.

We Want to Hear From You

Early, meaningful and open engagement is a top priority for Hydro One. We are hosting several engagement opportunities for Indigenous communities, residents, businesses, stakeholder groups, government agencies and other interested parties to speak with the project team, to learn more and share feedback. We encourage you to attend the upcoming open houses to get involved.

For more information, please visit HydroOne.com/Longwood-to-Lakeshore

Si vous souhaitez une copie de cette notification en français, veuillez visiter le site Internet du projet ou envoyer un courriel au projet pour en demander une copie.

2023 Community Heritage Preservation Awards presented to historically-minded individuals

component of Heritage Week in Essex is recognizing individuals and organizations who are dedicated to researching and protecting local history with a Community Heritage Preservation Award.

During the Council meeting on Tuesday, February 21, four recipients were awarded for the 2023 edition of the award.

Sebastian Schmoranz

by Sylene Argent

In recognition of the importance of preserving and promoting the

area’s rich history, the Town of Essex and its Municipal Heritage Committee present

Heritage Conservation Awards every year during Heritage Week.

An important

and Rena Rabheru, owners of 15 King Street West in Harrow, were recognized for redeveloping the historic site.

This was the location of the former Harrow Antique Shop building, which was listed on the Heritage Register, because of its architectural and historical significance, Rita Jabbour said, who is the Manager of Planning for the Town of Essex

and staff liaison for the Essex Municipal Heritage Committee.

“Built in 1883, it was one of the oldest building blocks in downtown Harrow, Jabbour said, noting when Schmoranz and Rabheru bought the property in 2021 to open their law firm and dental office, the building was, “in a dire state of disrepair and required a

Continued on Page 10

Photo submitted by the Town of Essex. Members of Town of Essex staff and its Municipal Heritage Committee present a 2023 Community Heritage Preservation Award to Laurie Brett and Pauline Baldwin. Sebastian Schmoranz and Rena Rabheru were also awarded.

2023 Community Heritage Preservation Awards presented to historically-minded individuals...

controlled demolition of the building to facilitate the renovations.”

The plan was to protect the original brick façade, because the building is often used as a landmark for individuals arriving to Harrow from out-oftown. Due to the state of the building, this was not possible. Schmoranz and Rabheru instead recreated the façade at their own expense as a promise to the community.

“Although a historical building cannot be replaced, and although we recognize this is not the original, Sabastian and Rena’s voluntary

contribution ensures that residents and visitors to Harrow have a new building that is sympathetic in defining the historical character of the downtown of Harrow,” Jabbour said. Receiving the award was unexpected, Schmoranz said. “We did our best to try and make sure we put something back up that looked very similar to what was there before. And we have to say, we have received a lot of positive feedback from the residents of Harrow. I think we have been somewhat successful in trying to honour the

legacy of what was there before.”

Former Editor of the Essex Free Press, Laurie Brett, was recognized for the recent publishing of her book, “The Rising Village: An Early History of Essex, Ontario.”

Brett, Jabbour said, was selected for a Community Heritage Preservation Award for her efforts in chronicling the early history of Essex, before it was a town or village, and prior to the railway becoming the defining landmark.

“The Rising Village,” Jabbour said, “Fills a crucial gap in the

Continued from Page 9

understanding of our local history.”

Brett thanked the Town and the Essex Municipal Committee for the award, and noted its staff liaisons do a wonderful job in going above and beyond to ensure committee members and the broader community are aware of local history initiatives.

“Today, we tend to think Essex Centre is defined by two catastrophic events… the 1907 railcar explosion and 1980 natural gas explosion. But, our settlement history goes back to the 19th century; a time of deplorable dirt roads and toll gates, unsanitary conditions and dangerous drinking water, limited policing and fire service, and fly-by-night business ventures.”

She said she hopes her book fills the void in the knowledge of early Essex, and helps readers develop appreciation of all modern municipal services taken for granted.

“I also hope my book

inspired others to dig into our past, because I’m fascinated by it,” Brett said.

Pauline Baldwin was awarded a Community Heritage Preservation Award for her many years of dedicated research and service as a volunteer board member of the Harrow Early Immigrant Research Society (HEIRS) for over 23-years.

“Her passion for genealogy and local history stem from her childhood days, beginning with her own research of her grandparents and great-grandparents,” Jabbour said, noting this led her to researching her 83 first cousins and their families.

Baldwin has spent countless hours researching, crossreferencing, and reading through genealogical files confirming dates of births, deaths, and marriages for many Harrow and Colchester

South families, Jabbour explained, and enjoyed the challenge of looking for the information.

Ever since she retired, Baldwin said it has been a mandate of her life to dig into genealogy, which she loves to do.

“It has been wonderful,” she said.

In addition to presenting Community Heritage Preservation Awards, the Town of Essex’s Heritage Week activities includes events, such as a heritage talk and book signing with Brett, which was postponed to Saturday, March 4 at the Essex Railway Station, due to the freezing rain last week. Reservations are required.

“This year, we celebrate two significant milestones,” Jabbour said. Essex Centre was settled 150-years ago, in 1873. In addition, 125-years ago, Harrow became a Police Village, in 1898.

Donate Blood

Essex

Essex Centre Sports Complex - 60 Fairview Ave. W.

Wednesday, March 8, 2023

Kingsville

Grovedale Arts & Culture Centre - 103 Park St

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

Belle River

St Simon & St Jude Parish Hall – 267 Meunier Street

Tuesday, March 28, 2023

Amherstburg

Knights of Columbus Hall – 190 Richmond St.

Tuesday, April 18, 2023

Visit online for other clinic dates and times.

How to protect long-term cognitive health

whether that involves taking vacations, meditating, laughing with friends and family, or engaging in relaxing activities that relieve stress.

Get enough vitamin D

Vitamin D is linked to a host health benefits, including its potential to promote a healthy brain. Individuals can get more time outdoors to get vitamin D naturally from the sun and eat foods rich in vitamin D. If doctors find that vitamin D levels are exceptionally low, supplementation can help. Pay attention to hearing loss to cognitive decline, says Healthline.

Cognitive health is not something to take for granted. Although a certain level of memory loss can be expected as people age, when the ability to clearly think, learn and remember is compromised, those changes can affect an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and should serve as a cause for concern.

Brain health should be a priority for everyone. The National Institute on Aging says brain health is an umbrella term that encompasses a host of factors, including:

• cognitive health, which is how well you think, learn and remember

• motor function, or how you make and control movements

• tactile function, which is how you feel sensations; and

• emotional function, or how emotions are interpreted and responded to. Individuals can safeguard brain health - particularly cognitive health - by taking these steps.

Be more health-conscious

Working with doctors, individuals

can put their health first. This includes getting routine screenings, managing chronic health problems, limiting or avoiding alcohol and nicotine products, and getting the recommended amount of sleep each night.

Manage high blood pressure

All chronic conditions cause longterm repercussions, but the NIA indicates that observational studies show having high blood pressure in mid-life increases the risk of cognitive decline later in life. Lowering blood pressure lowers the risk for mild cognitive impairment and possibly dementia.

Challenge your brain

Harvard Medical School says nurturing social contacts, engaging in stimulating mental activities like reading and doing puzzles, seeing new places, and learning new things can help keep the brain in top form.

Manage stress

Stress can take its toll on the body, and there is reason to believe that it may adversely affect cognitive health as well. Make every stride to reduce stress,

Researchers in Italy concluded that people with central hearing loss had a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment than those with no hearing loss or peripheral hearing loss. Individuals with central hearing loss are urged to speak to their physicians to determine if they can take preventive action to stave off further decline.

Cognitive health should be a priority Adults can employ various strategies to reduce their risk of cognitive decline as they age.

Fun ways for seniors to stay active

Physical activity is an important component of overall health. Health experts advise that exercise can increase lean body mass, prevent conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, improve balance, and positively affect mental health/cognition. Exercise also can foster socialization with others, helping people overcome boredom and isolation.

As individuals get older, they may not be able to participate in all of the activities they enjoyed as youths, but that doesn’t mean older adults must resign themselves to sedentary lifestyles. There are plenty of entertaining ways to remain physically active that can accommodate any limitations a person may have. Explore these methods for staying active.

Explore senior centre offerings

Community senior centres often fill calendars with a vast array of activities, some of which can include

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physical activities. Hikes, walking tours, dances, and other activities all serve as entertaining ways to get out and about while meeting some fitness goals.

Garden or do yard work

The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotions says adults should get 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Raking leaves, mowing the lawn, digging in flower beds, trimming bushes, and other outdoor tasks could help a person meet this quota in a way that doesn’t seem like exercise at all.

Play games with grandchildren

Little kids may inspire older adults to be more active, as it can be difficult to keep up with those youngsters. Take infants or toddlers for walks or push them in strollers. Attach a child seat or towing carriage to a bicycle and ride around the neighbourhood. Play games that require movement, such as hide-and-seek or Marco Polo in the

pool. If it’s snowing, have a snowball fight or make a snowman in the yard.

Take up a new hobby

Find hobbies that incorporate physical activity. Perhaps learning to salsa dance or taking Zumba® will be fun?

Pickleball has caught on across the nation. The sport is a mix of tennis, racquetball and badminton that caters to all ages. Joining a bowling team is another way to get active and meet new people.

Physical activity is important at any age. Seniors can explore fun ways to stay in shape and be active to reap all the benefits of exercise.

metrocreativeconnection.com

Not all kids can be fit into the “box” of team sports or social popularity. Our curriculum includes powerful Life Skills programs that will build confidence and leadership abilities in your child. Our program is ideal for independent children and will lay the foundation for a lifetime of success.

3 easy tips to stay on top of your nutritional goals

Ontario pharmacists can now treat many minor illnesses

(NC) You may have heard that pharmacists can now write prescriptions for common conditions like allergies, pink eye and heartburn. This sounds quick and convenient, but what does it mean? Can you just show up at the pharmacy counter with a problem? Here are the answers to these and some other top questions:

Continued on Page 14

(NC) The benefits of a healthy diet go beyond physical appearance. A nutritious diet, supported by a healthy lifestyle, helps us thrive both mentally and physically. Whether you’re trying to hit a certain physical goal or are seeking to manage a medical condition, below are three easy tips to stay on top of your nutrition.

Read your labels

Food labels are more than just a tool to count calories. They also allow us to track ingredients and macronutrients. That’s especially important if you have allergies or food restrictions because of a medical condition such as kidney disease, diabetes or high blood pressure. Read labels carefully and count your macronutrients so you don’t go over your nutritional limits.

Cook for the week ahead

Busy lives make it hard for us to cook daily. Luckily, many recipes are easy to make ahead of time and store in the fridge or freezer. One evening a week try batch cooking a couple of recipes, cutting up veggies for your salads and making an easy snack to grab on the go like eggplant

and chickpea bites. Having a few of your meals ready for the week ahead will cut down cooking time and help keep your nutrition on track.

Make a plan and stick to it

When we’re at a loss for what to eat, we tend to grab the first thing we see or cave into cravings. In both cases, we tend to stray from nutritional goals. To prevent that, consider creating a structured meal plan to help you avoid impulse eating and make cooking time less stressful. If you struggle to plan ahead, look for online tools that can make it simpler, like the Kidney Community Kitchen meal planner. It has a variety of recipes that take the stress out of planning a kidneyhealthy diet. It’s also a solid tool to track macronutrients and ensure you’re staying within your nutritional limits.

However you plan your food, remember that physical activity should always accompany a healthy diet for an overall healthy lifestyle.

Find out more about the meal planner at kidneycommunitykitchen.ca.

www.newscanada.com

Set your sights on glaucoma

Eyesight often isn’t fully appreciated until it begins to diminish. Starting in one’s thirties, if not earlier, a person’s vision may start to be less sharp. Items at a distance or up close may be more difficult to discern, and if prescription glasses or contacts are worn, that prescription may need to be adjusted more regularly. However, there are some eye conditions that are not entirely a result of aging. Glaucoma is one of them.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, glaucoma is a chronic, progressive eye disease that occurs when the optic nerve is damaged. Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness and usually occurs when an abnormality in

the eye’s drainage system causes the aqueous humor fluid in the eye to build up, sometimes leading to excessive pressure that impacts the optic nerve. The optic nerve connects the retina with the brain, sending vision signals. Damage to the nerve can cause loss of eyesight. While pressure is largely to blame for glaucoma, glaucoma can occur even if eye pressure is normal.

Glaucoma is often a silent condition. The Mayo Clinic advises that many forms of glaucoma have no warning signs. With effects so gradual, no changes in vision may be noticed until the condition is in its later stages.

This underscores the importance of

getting regular eye examinations that will include measurements of the pressure in both eyes, says the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Glaucoma caught early can be slowed down or even prevented before it becomes severe. Lifelong treatment and monitoring will be needed after diagnosis.

There are different types of glaucoma. The most common is open-angle glaucoma, which occurs after the clogged fluid does not drain properly. Angle-closure glaucoma, also called closed-angle glaucoma, happens when the iris is very close to the drainage angle in the eye and the iris blocks the drainage angle. This results in an acute glaucoma attack. Some people have normal tension glaucoma, in which eye pressure is in normal range but there are

signs of glaucoma. These individuals’ optic nerves may be more sensitive to pressure than others’ and will have to be monitored.

Certain people are at a greater risk for developing glaucoma than others. Individuals over 40; those with a family history of glaucoma; people of African, Hispanic or Asian heritage; people with high eye pressure; those who have had an eye injury; and individuals who use longterm steroid medications are at increased risk. Other factors also affect glaucoma risk.

Glaucoma should be discussed at routine eye wellness visits to prevent lasting vision damage.

Ontario pharmacists can now treat many minor illnesses

What is a minor illness?

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A minor illness is a health condition that can be managed with minimal treatment or self-care strategies. It’s usually a short-term problem that doesn’t raise any red flags for a more serious condition or require a blood test or lab work to diagnose.

Which minor illnesses can I see a pharmacist for?

Your local pharmacist can now assess and treat 13 common ailments: allergies, oral thrush, pink eye, eczema and skin rashes, painful periods, heartburn, hemorrhoids, cold sores, bug bites and hives, tick bites, sprains and strains, urinary tract infections (UTIs) and impetigo.

Do I need to book an appointment?

No, you can simply walk in and speak with a highly trained pharmacist without

having to call ahead. Is there a fee?

Assessing and prescribing medication for minor illnesses is covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan, so all you need to do is show your valid OHIP card. You may still pay the normal dispensing fee if they fill a prescription. What happens during the pharmacist visit?

Your pharmacist will ask questions to assess your condition and decide on the best course of action. This could be a prescription or a recommendation for an over-the-counter medication. If the pharmacist feels your illness is serious or requires a follow up, they will refer you to a doctor.

Learn more about this new service at rexall.ca/prescribing. www.newscanada.com

WHI

A trusted partner in your heart health journey. Diagnostics and care you can rely on! Offering, by walk-in or appointment:

• EKG

• Holter/Loop Monitors

• 24 Hour Blood Pressure Monitors

• Rest/Stress Echo

• Cardiology Consults

Monday-Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm

FARMING

WANTED

Farm Land to Rent

Cash or Share Crop

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

SERVICES

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

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

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

SERVICES

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

INCOME TAX PREPARATION: Good rates on personal, rental, and business returns. E-file or paper file. Call Jeannette Grass (519) 890-9111. 8-10t*

FOR RENT

SMALL ONE-FLOOR HOME FOR RENT at Paquette Corners - Available March 4, ‘23. Rent: $1300/m + Hydro, Natural Gas. One large bedroom, kitchen + appliances, bathroom, laundry room + appliances, 2 large closets. Natural Gas heated. Call for View Appointment 519737-6848. 1-tt

HELP WANTED

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

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

HELP WANTED

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

FOR SALE

FOR SALE - John Deere pull-type sprayer with 100 gallon tank, 28 ft. boom,plus pump like new. $500.00 OBO. Call 519776-6930. 07-1t

WANTED

CASH PAID for antiques, costume jewellery, furniture, gold, sterling, coins, tools, complete estates. We take it all! Free appraisals. Call 519-727-8894. 1-tfn

CASH PAID for scrap cars and trucks. Free removal. Please phone: 519-776-1361 or 519-791-5046. 1-tfn

WANTED

SELLING YOUR GOLD JEWELRY + COINS? PLEASE READ!! I did not recently send a colour brochure to your home. Before you sell take the time to get a second opinion (My offer is often double) - We have SATIFIED CUSTOMERS. FREE ESTIMATES, NO OBLIGATION. PAYING TOP DOLLAR, GOLD, SILVER, Jewelry, All COINS - Canada, USA, World. PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE - All windup pocket and wrist watches Old Paper Money, Stamp Collections. EVENT

DATE: Thursday, March 2, at Unico Centre, 37 Beech St, Kingsville House Calls also available Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 55-years Exp. 519-818-1805 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*

Essex Southpoint U13 hockey report

submitted to EFP

The Essex Southpoint U13 Hockey Team travelled to Harrow this past weekend to face-off against a potential playoff team in the Erie North Shore Storm.

In the first period, both teams exchanged chances, but as the game went on ESP slowly took over the play and began capitalizing on chances.

Midway through the second period, while shorthanded, Derek Dunn pounced on a loose puck in his own end and skated straight up the middle and buried his wrist shot low-glove to open the scoring. Two minutes later, Austin Goudie stole the puck and fed it to AJ Youssef, who then slid the puck to Nash Feurth and he one-timed it past the Storm goalie.

Early the third period, Brayden Foster

chipped the puck to Lucas O’Neil, who passed it back to Kayden Cook, who fired a slap shot top corner to increase the lead by three. With 8:41 left, Youssef circled back into the zone and took a shot on net. Goudie banged at the rebound, with it coming back out to Youssef, and he slapped it home. Only a few minutes later, while short handed, Tyler Thomas blocked a shot at his own blue line and and skated down the ice, and fired a wrist shot top shelf for a goal.

With 1:46 left, Feurth stole the puck in the offensive zone and ripped a wrist shot low glove. Finally, with 30 seconds remaining, the puck bounced out to Cook, who cut in hard to the net, before jamming it in to complete the 7-1 victory. Trent Chevalier made some timely saves to secure the win for his squad.

Local musicians give back to their community

submitted to EFP

The Harrow Legion Branch 338 had a packed house on Saturday, February 18th with the “Timmy Mac Band,” playing a sold out charity show for Project HOPE Windsor Essex.

The ’Timmy Mac Band’ formed in 2022 after local musician and Harrow native, Tim McDonald, began playing music with his son, Mike, and fellow musicians Andy, Jeff, Marshall, and Tyler. After a couple of years of not playing live music, due to the pandemic, the band said it was fun to just get together, play some music, and have some laughs.

After several weeks of practicing together, the members decided to plan their first live show together. All members of the band live in Harrow and thought it would be a great opportunity to show community pride by hosting it locally, with proceeds going to a local charity.

The band presented Project HOPE with a cheque for $550.00 and thanked the community for attending the show and making it an overall great success and experience.

“We chose Project HOPE collectively, as a band because it is an amazing charity that helps people in need, directly in our community. The dedicated volunteers work hard and they need all the donations they can get,” guitarist and vocalist, Mike McDonald, explained.

Project HOPE Director of Operations, Teri Gorick, gratefully accepted the cheque this past Friday. She stated that the community has been amazing to work with and people are very generous. Teri is a local, retired elementary teacher and knew most of the band members.

Project HOPE Windsor Essex is a non-profit organization and was founded in 2019 by Taylor Gorick and Steve Pomerleau to inspire positive change within their community. In 2020, it opened its permanent Harrow location.

The Harrow location is at 243 McAffee St.,

Harrow (just outside Harrow Arena) It is operational to the public 365 days a year, for one hour each day.

Monday - Friday 7-8pm and Saturday & Sunday 1-2pm. Donations of non-perishables can be made during these hours. Goods they are always in need of are: condiments, peanut butter, eggs, milk, bread,

yogurt.

Monetary donations can be sent to: info@ projecthopewindsoressex.com. For more information visit: projecthopewindsoressex.com

Plans for another “Timmy Mac Band” show are in the works. See social media for updates.

FromThe Heart

Happy Birthday

Larry MiLLs

March 2, 1943

Love, Sharon, and the whole family

Voice Of Inspiration

“Remember diamonds are created under pressure so hold on, it will be your time to shine soon.”

~ Sope Agbelusi

OBITUARIES

BICKFORD, Colleen

October 11, 1959 - February 24, 2023 - Loving wife of Lennard for 43 years. Proud mother of David (Kait) and Red Barron. Loving grandma to grand-dog Winnie. Survived by her mother, Dianne, uncle Don, and aunt Monika. Predeceased by her father Ed (2010). Colleen will be missed by many nieces, nephews, friends, extended family, and colleagues. As per Colleen’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at Colasanti’s on April 15, 2023 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made online or by cheque to Erie Shores Hospice.

Say I Love You With A Personal

Winter ice storm leaves hydro wires down, tree branches scattered throughout Essex...

24-hours of the storm, she said her phone was blowing up with calls and messages from residents who were upset they still had no power to cook or keep their homes warm.

“The scale of this storm was really big,” Bondy said. She noted at that time, she had visited all four wards in the municipality and there was, “a lot of damage.”

E.L.K. Energy, which the Town of Essex owns, had its crew members on a mandatory sleep time until 4pm on Thursday. Its frontline staff members worked all day Wednesday for their regular shift, then worked from 7pm until 7am Thursday morning, trying to restore power,

Continued from Page 2

Bondy explained. E.L.K brought in a private contractor to help fill the gap of that mandatory sleep time for its crews.

Firefighters with Essex Fire & Rescue, primarily from Stations 1 and 3, were busy Wednesday evening.

“Harrow and Essex Centre were the hardest hit in our community,” Essex Fire Chief Rick Arnel said. He said fire crews responded to a lot of calls related to the ice storm, including fires, sparks, and troubles with transformers

“Crews from Harrow and Essex worked most of the night on Wednesday into Thursday morning,” Arnel explained, noting they responded to lingering issues even on Thursday evening when the power came back on.

Essex Fire & Rescue’s crews did a great job. “They worked through the night. They worked hard for the community to make sure they went out there and checked everything out,” Arnel said. “They did a fantastic job!”

By Thursday afternoon, most of Harrow had power, with some homes still needing to be addressed, Bondy said.

In Essex Centre, Bondy explained, the issue was with the Hydro One service, which sent crews in from Woodstock to help alleviate issues contributing to the power outage.

Employees with Essex’s Public Works department began cleaning when it was safe to do so on Thursday, as well.

Phones were out at E.L.K., so residents were asked to either email Bondy or use Twitter to reach out to E.L.K. to notify of remaining power outages.

Bondy said communication with E.L.K. needs to be secured for the future by looking into acquiring a generator to ensure its phoneline remains operable.

At this time, the Essex Centre Sports Complex could not be used as a warming station as it had no power. It was used, in addition to the Harrow Arena, for that purpose when it received power on Friday.

Bondy wants to investigate a way to ensure a warming station is available for such emergencies in the future, in

OBITUARIES

LOGAN , Donald - passed away peacefully at Erie Shores Healthcare at 96 years of age, He left to join his beloved wife, Betty on Saturday, February 18, 2023 to see her on their 51st wedding anniversary on February 19. Loving Dad of Heather Logan and Drew Logan. Adored Grandad of Cas. He will also be missed by his fur baby, Buddy. Predeceased by his parents, Charles and Janet Logan, and siblings, Isabelle Fraser and Roddy Logan. Dearest brother-in-law of Bruce Tait and wife, Gayle. He was also loved and will be remembered by many nieces and nephews. Don served with the U.S. Army for 26 years, retiring as Master Sergeant in 1970. He then went on to work and retire from General Motors after 26 years of service. In following Don’s wishes, there will be no funeral service, cremation has taken place. If desired, memorial donations may be made to Windsor Regional Cancer Centre or Hospice of Windsor Essex County by contacting Reid Funeral Home, 87 Maidstone Ave. E., Essex (519-776-4233). Family and friends are invited to share their memories online at www.reidfuneralhome.ca

Voice Of Inspiration

“True character is revealed in the choices a human being makes under pressure - the greater the pressure, the deeper the revelation, the truer the choice to the character’s essential nature.”

~ Robert McKee

What’s Going On...

MAR 3 - PASTA DINNER at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 92 St Paul Street from 5 - 6:30pm entertainment by WECAP. Dine in or take out. For more details call: 519-776-7711.

MAR 4 - HERITAGE TALK & BOOK SIGNING - w/ Laurie Brett & book, The Rising Village at Essex Railway Station, 87 Station St. Email: heritage@essex.ca to reserve your spot.

MAR 4 - BELLE RIVER LIONS CLUB PASTA FUNDRAISER - 41 Lions Club Rd. from 3-4:30pm & 5-6:30pm For info, contact: Debbie (226) 346-5755. Orders by March 1.

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

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

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

MAR 19 - ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETING - RESTREPIA WORKSHOP - St

Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave; Oldcastle. New members always welcome.

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

APRIL 29 - WETRA’S BLUE JEAN BASH - at WETRA: 3323 North Malden Rd., Essex.

5pm - Midnight - Dinner, dancing, entertainment, etc. For all info: www.wetra.ca

HIATUS HOUSE: offers counselling services in Essex County. Women’s Fresh Start group therapy is once a week. For info or to schedule an intake appointment, call the 24-hour Hiatus House helpline at 519-252-7781.

Fresh food. Friendly neighbours

Salvation Army Essex Church

submitted by Carolyn Barnett

Join us for Family Worship Sunday, March 5th at 10:30a.m. “Follow Me. Leave the Past Behind” is Major Jim Hann’s sermon topic. Join us after church for our monthly potluck lunch.

A trip for miniature golf is on our program for SA Connections on Tuesday, March 7th. We will return to the church for lunch at 12noon. This community program runs from 10 -noon and is open to all. Following lunch, Major Hann leads Bible Study at 1 p.m. Join us as we explore First John.

Major Hann will lead the 3rd Ministerial Association Lenten Service at Holy Name Catholic Church on Wednesday, March 8th at noon. A light luncheon will follow.

Canned tuna, chicken, and ham, as well as canned fruit, are always in demand at our Food Bank. If you would like to make a donation we would gratefully accept it on Tues., Wed., or Fri. between 9a.m.2p.m. The Food Bank number is 519-7764628.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church

submitted by Sandra Lypps

Join us for Sunday service each week at 11am. All are welcome to join us!

Our next pasta dinner will take place on Friday, March 3rd. On Friday, March 10th at 7pm join us at St Paul’s for a Piano

Concert for International

Women’s Day with Sydney Brouillard Coyle.

If you are cleaning out closets, please keep our Clothes Cupboard in mind. We are always accepting gently used clothing to give to those in need.

For information about what is happening at St Paul’s, visit our website: www.stpaulstrinity.org) or social media. Messages are checked regularly at the church office, at 519-7767711.

Trinity Anglican Church

Lawyer Colleen Sylvester will be our guest on Sunday, March 19th at 11am. She will discuss the importance of setting up a will and why we should all have a power of attorney. All are invited to join us.

Sunday services with Rev’d Hilton Gomes are at 9:45am.All are welcome to join us.

Essex Christian Reformed Church submitted by Beverley Van Huizen

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

Come be part of the community, our Take-a-book Leave-a-book library is now in front of Essex CRC church.

GEMS and Cadets meet on Monday evenings from 6:30 - 8:00pm. This is a great club for girls and boys from Grade 1-8, where we participate in bible studies, crafts and games. All are welcome to attend.

Bethel-Maidstone United

Our ser vice begins at 10am on Sunday mornings. All are invited to hear Rev. Paul Rodey’s message. Please join us, as we enter the Lenten Season. We enjoy coffee

hour in the hall after the service. All are welcome.

Bethel-Maidstone will host the noonhour lenten service on Wednesday, March 1 with Steve Vandyk as the guest speaker. Rev. Paul will be the guest speaker at the noon-hour Lenten service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church on Wednesday, March 29. A light lunch will follow all services, free will offering gratefully accepted.

Choir practice will begin Sunday, March 5, at 9am to practice for an anthem for Easter. All are welcome.

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

Central Essex County Catholic Family of Parishes

Essex, Maidstone, McGregor, and Woodslee Family of Parishes refugee project, Hope for Maryam, is asking for contributions. Your donation can be dropped off in the collection basket. Cheques are payable to Sisters of Holy Names and include Hope for Refugees on the memo line.

St. Vincent de Paul is having a Lenten food drive at each church. Please donate non-perishable can goods.

Please remove all winter decorations from your loved one’s grave at each of our Family of Parishes cemeteries by the end of March.

I f you have any unused eye glasses, please drop them off at Holy Name of Jesus church and they will be sent to third world countries.

We are accepting gift cards for coffee in the collection basket for the homeless. Drop them off at Holy Name of Jesus church.

St. Mary’s Lenten Euchre card party results are first Dave McMurren, second Don Sylvester, third Judy Dufour, fourth David Sylvester, and consolation Joan Reid. Come out every Sunday during Lent to play cards at 7pm at St. Mary’s

Hall.

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

Woodslee United Church

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

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

Essex United Church

This past Sunday, February 26th, the 3rd Essex Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and Venturers joined our service. This was in celebration of Baden Powel’s birthday. They and their families joined in our service and then we all enjoyed lunch.

This coming Sunday, Rev. Lexie Chamberlain will lead our 10:30am service. Please come and join us!

Rev. Darrow Woods Harrow United Church, has invited us to join in the Lenten Bible Study, being held on Zoom beginning this Wednesday, March 1st, at 7pm. Please let Karen know if you would like to take part.

The Essex Food Bank is open Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Please call 519776-4070 for more information.

Paquette News

Church of the Redeemer and St. Stephen’s continue to support the Essex Food Bank with weekly contributions based on the needs for that week. The congregations also appreciate the volunteers who work the Food Bank so faithfully.

After the 8:30a.m. worship service this Sunday, March 5th at Church of the Redeemer, join us for Coffee Hour. Besides the goodies, the fellowship is wonderful.

Winter ice storm leaves hydro wires down, tree branches scattered throughout Essex...

addition to ensuring a strong Asset Management Plan is in place to ensure that the impact from a storm like the one experienced last week is not as heavy.

By Friday, the E.L.K. Board of Directors decided to bring in Entegrus to assist with restoration efforts in the E.L.K. service area.

At this time, Comber, parts of Belle River, and some homes in Cottam were still without power. In Kingsville, a transformer was switched out, she said. Crews were working to clean up around Holy Name of Jesus School in Essex Centre.

Hydro One, she said, still had 1500 customers without power in Essex County Friday. 359 of its personnel were working on the issue.

Essex Powerlines brought in an Assessment Team to help determine who still needed to be hooked back up.

Bondy thanked Entegrus, Essex Powerlines, and E.L.K. crews for their assistance, and the members of the E.L.K. Energy Board for their work on the matter. She also acknowledged the local businesses that offered their space or services to support residents in need or to show appreciation to E.L.K. staff.

“As Chair of E.L.K. and Mayor of the Town of Essex - I can not be more proud of all our frontline workers during the last five days,” Bondy stated over the weekend, thanking fire personnel, linemen, and the Town’s public works, community services, water department, and clean-

up crews, in addition to, “everyone else who assisted in getting us back up and running.”

The E.L.K. Energy Board, she added, understands the struggles residents faced. Members will debrief on the matter.

Clean-up information

The Town of Essex has noted it will take its staff weeks to clean up public areas after the storm.

The Town of Essex noted downed branches can be dropped off at one of the EWSWA drop-off depots. Size restrictions apply. For further details, visit: pulse.ly/ nq8ozfft1o

Branches/Stumps: (under 18” in diameter, less than 48” long) can be dropped off free of charge.

Branches/Stumps: (over 18” in diameter, but less than 36” long) can be dropped off, but will be charged as garbage.

This is for yard waste only. For inquiries, please contact 1-800-563-3377.

Residents who do not wish to use the landfill depot can leave brush at the side of the road in front of their house. Please ensure that the debris is far enough from the roadway to not interfere with winter control operations.

It will take time for the debris to be cleared across the municipality.

Power outage tips from Essex Fire

When the power goes out, Essex Fire Chief Rick

Continued from Page 18

Arnel said, “You need to go around and shut everything off, including your stove.”

There was an instance where someone had been cooking when the power went out and the stove was not shut off. When the power kicked back on that individual was at work and Essex Fire was called as the house was filling up with smoke.

In addition, those who use generators are urged to ensure they are not placed too closely to vents, windows, or doors (at least 20-feet from the building) to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home.

TAX PREPARATION

Over35years experience.

Flyers drop two of three, clinch first place heading into Western Conference playoffs

faced the Stars for the second time since Family Day, where the Flyers won a 3-2 nail-biter. Unlike Monday, it was the Stars who opened the scoring and controlled the puck early and often. Appearing with a jump, running the Flyers up and down the ice, the Stars stole the game Thursday with a score of 5-1. This was on the night the Flyers honoured its four graduating players.

by Garrett Fodor

Heading into playoffs, the Leamington Flyers will carry home ice advantage, in part thanks to its first-round opponent, the Sarnia Legionnaires.

Entering last week, the Flyers had three games on its schedule, including

a pair of games against the St. Thomas Stars, along with a road trip to St. Mary’s to face the Lincolns in-between. In order to clinch first place, the Flyers needed to win two of its remaining three games, or have London lose one of its remaining

games.

The week started on Thursday as the Flyers

It was a quick turnaround, with Flyers traveling to St. Mary’s Friday. On a mission early looking for its two points, the Flyers opened the scoring just 56-seconds

in. Connor MacPherson doubled the lead in the second period before an offensive explosion in the third period. When the dust settled, despite a final-minutes push, the Flyers – led by goaltender Bryce Walcarius – stood tall, prevailing 4-3.

On an off-night Saturday, the Flyers got the news the Legionnaires had defeated the London Nationals 4-3, giving the Flyers first place.

With first place in hand, the Flyers traveled to St. Thomas to close out the season. Taking an opportunity to list key players, the Flyers called up a pair of APs, including

2007-born forward, Cameron Arquette. Much like Thursday’s contest, the Stars were quick to get an early jump on the Flyers, opening the scoring and later cushioning it by three before the Flyers got on the board in the second period. Despite the Flyers outshooting the Stars 4125, it was the Stars getting the last win, prevailing 5-1.

The Flyers now face the Legionnaires with game one being on Thursday. Full details will be published on the Flyers’ social media.

The Leamington Flyers honoured four graduating players. After inviting their families onto the ice, each of their mothers were given flowers and the four players were presented with a plaque for their dedication.

Introductory pickleball class provides rule rundown

What is this man holding up?

This 1947 Ford 2-door sedan was slowly sinking into the ground in a wrecking yard in eastern Ontario in 1997. The hood and headlights are gone as well as the passenger side parking light.

Someone had installed a chrome-plated air cleaner on the carburetor to dress up the engine compartment. Maybe that was the same person who painted the inside sun visors a bright turquoise. My friend Vern Kipp found one lying on what was left of the front seat and is holding it up for your viewing pleasure. The other sun visor had disappeared.

Seventy-five years ago, this car was brand new when it rolled off the Ford of Canada assembly line in Windsor, Ontario. New cars were in big demand right after the war, and the first owner of this car might have waited a full year before it arrived at the local dealership.

Maybe Henry Ford was still alive when this car reached its first owner. He died April 7, 1947 by the light of a coal oil lamp during a power failure. How ironic the man who put the world on wheels passed away by the same illumination that welcomed him into the world when he was born on a Michigan farm in 1863.

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

by Sylene Argent

With pickleball becoming a widely popular sport, the Town of Essex hosted an introductory class last Friday afternoon at the Maedel Community Centre, inviting those

interested in learning the rules of the game and the tricks to building good technique to participate.

The introductory class helped prepare those unfamiliar with the sport, but a desire to play, to get a

better understanding of the game before participating in a drop-in session.

Drop-in pickleball sessions are held throughout the week, and they are always pretty busy, Zac Martin, a Program Coordinator at the Maedel Community Centre, said as he instructed the introductory class. Typically, at a drop-in session, 18-20 individuals are able to get out onto the court, with 20 being the max able to play.

He said pickleball members of the Maedel Community Centre are invited to show up 15-minutes early for a

Continued on Page 23

1947 Ford in auto graveyard.

73’s secure top spot in the Stobbs Division with playoffs around the corner

McCabe. Just as the Admirals were about to take a sigh of relief heading into the intermission tied, the 73’s responded. With nine-seconds remaining, AP Lazar Dragicevic beat Agostini to make it a 3-2 game.

The Admirals tied the game with seven-minutes remaining in the third period, when Demelo beat McCabe for the second time on the night, forcing overtime.

first and sixth placed teams respectively. On the ice, however, it did not appear as such. The 73’s roster featured three AP call ups on forward.

by Garrett Fodor

With a pair of games on its schedule, it was only a matter of time before the Essex 73’s would punch its ticket to the Stobbs Division playoffs, in addition to securing the top spot and home ice advantage.

The 73’s began its week playing host to the Amherstburg Admirals last Tuesday. The matchup may have been with the

Seven-minutes into the game, the Admirals opened the scoring as Joshua Pedersen beat Cavan McCabe on the power-play. The goal quickly provoked the 73’s offense, which swiftly upped their tempo, looking for an equalizer. With four-minutes to go in the opening frame, Austin Guevremont beat Massimo Agostini. With just twominutes remaining, the 73’s beat Agostini again,

taking a 2-1 lead into the intermission as the shots were tied at 13 apiece.

Coming out of the second intermission, the Admirals continued to push for an equalizer, while the 73’s looked to increase their lead, with it quickly turning to a battle of the goaltenders. Shot-aftershot was fired towards McCabe and Agostini respectively, as the nearly 500 fans waited anxiously to see who would falter first.

Six-minutes into the frame, the Admirals tied the game at two, with Mitchell Demelo beating

In overtime, the 73’s were quick to secure the second point. Just 23-seconds in, Jacob Cruickshank beat Agostini to seal the 4-3 win. Essex outshot Amherstburg 41-

28. Closing out the week, the 73’s had a playoff preview, as they traveled to Walpole Saturday to face the Wallaceburg Thunderhawks.

Unlike their game Tuesday, the 73’s offense was firing at full force, quickly looking to take a commanding and relentless lead. In total, the 73’s skaters fired 19 shots in the opening frame, scoring on five of those, while the Thunderhawks had just five total shots in the frame.

With a commanding lead, the 73’s continued to zip the puck around, finding players in space and providing a chance to

continue to cushion their lead. The 73’s later added three goals in the second period and another three goals in the third period, prevailing 11-0. Adrian McBride was in net posting the shutout as the 73’s outshot the Thunderhawks 50-15. Leading the way offensively was Liam Hall, who had three goals and an assist, while Issac Legood had one goal and four assists.

The 73’s have a lone game on February 28, before they begin the postseason. The playoff schedule is yet to be determined.

Introductory pickleball class provides rule rundown...

chance to get a spot to play in a drop-in session, while non-members are allowed to arrive five-minutes early.

Pickleball, he said, is an interesting sport, adding Essex is hands-on in its approach to the game, which is partly why it is becoming so popular.

More introduction classes are planned for the future for those interested in getting involved.

Continued from Page 22

Curtis Jackson is pictured skating in a game earlier this year.

Flyers’ 16-year-old Reid commits to Colgate University

by Garrett Fodor

When Hayden Reid started this season, it was an uphill battle for the 16-year-old forward. It may have started with adversity, but he also believed in himself.

The Clarington, Ontario native had recently gone unselected in the OHL Draft in April, after being a member of the Don Mills Flyers ‘AAA’ program. With his career at a crossroads, Reid and his family decided his best fit may be to try out for the Leamington Flyers. After earning one of the two coveted 16-year-old spots, and settling into his home-away-from-home, Reid was quick to take

the league by storm and brought the attention and scouts to him.

Beginning the season, Reid registered 13 points in the first 10 games, including eight goals in that span. Quickly becoming one of the rookie leaders, Reid helped the young Flyers team quickly battle atop of the standings, offering complimentary scoring to NCAA commits Ryan and Connor MacPherson.

“It’s just an awesome story,” Flyers’ Head Coach, Dale Mitchell, shared. “Hayden was not drafted into the OHL, but it never affected him. He came in and worked really hard this year to show he

is a great player and is now being rewarded for that. He’s been a pleasure to coach.”

Dressing in 47 games, along with playing a role in the GOJHL’s under-18 team at the MacPherson Tournament in Aurora and the GOJHL’s Future Stars Game, Reid quickly garnered looks from not just OHL teams, but also NCAA teams. The 5’10” forward would go on to put up 40 points in 47 games, including 16 goals.

With the interest now surrounding Reid and his family, the 16-yearold recently made the decision to commit to Colgate University, in

New York. The Division I school plays in the Eastern College Athletic

Conference, located in Hamilton, New York. The Raiders program has made five NCAA Frozen Four appearances, including a runner up finish in 1990.

“I’m very excited to begin my collegiate career at Colgate,” Reid announced. “It feels great to commit to such an amazing school. Not only do they have a great hockey program, but their academic program is excellent, as well. I really want to thank the Flyers organization for everything they have done to help me reach my goals this season.”

With his recent commitment, Reid joins a growing list of players who have committed to NCAA Division I programs from the Flyers, including current players Ryan and Connor MacPherson, along with former players Zach Borgiel, Adam Jeffery, and Nick Beneteau.

The 16-year-old finished fourth on the Flyers in regular season,

helping the team to finish first place in the regular season. Now with his verbal commitment, Reid will now have to wait until next season before officially signing on the dotted line and officially committing to Colgate.

Turning 17 in May, Reid will have at least one more season of junior hockey before being able to make the jump to collegiate ranks. But right now, both Reid and the Flyers are focusing on the Western Conference Playoffs and their ultimate goal of winning the Sutherland Cup, as the first round of playoffs starts this week against the Sarnia Legionnaires. In total, the Flyers have had six players commit in the last three seasons. This is more than any other GOJHL team during that span. As well, the hockey club also has a pair of players receiving interest in the upcoming NHL draft this June.

Voice Of Inspiration

“Keep cool under pressure. Don’t waver from what is right. Stay the course.”

~ Cathy Burnham Martin