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Thursday, May 12, 2022
Vol. 142
A LOOK INSIDE Council passes amendment to regulate STRs, provisionally adopts By-Law to licence and regulate PAGE 3 ______________
Issue No. 18
Many pitched-in to support Essex-wide community clean-up
County of Essex Council notes for April 4 PAGE 7 _______________ St. Paul’s Meet the Candidates event introduces those running in Provincial Election
PAGE 10 _______________ OPP Top Call for Service in March was for property checks PAGE 13 _______________ Greater Amherstburg Tennis League serving an opportunity to try tennis
PAGE 19 ______________
Looking For A Good Home
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by Sylene Argent Plenty of support piled in to help spruce up the municipality as the Town of Essex hosted its annual Green Team Community Clean-Up on Saturday morning. Residents from all four wards were encouraged to roll up their sleeves to pick-up trash and debris in public areas during the event, which urged citizens to do their part to help maintain the aesthetics of the area.
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Residents gathered at the Heritage Gardens Park in Essex Centre, the Harrow & Colchester South Community Centre, the McGregor Community Centre, and at Colchester Park to pitchin. There, Town staff provided garbage bags and gloves, and further provided participants with maps to help cover as much area as possible. Councillor Morley Bowman greeted residents who took part in
about how the Town appreciated the support of those who got involved. In Essex Centre, members of the 3rd Essex Scouts participated, as the youths in this group are taught the importance of getting involved in the community. After the clean-up, participants could head back to their starting locations to enjoy a thank-you lunch, provided by the Town of Essex.
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the clean-up in Essex Centre. He said the town-wide spruce-up has been taking place since the late ‘90s, and it is always encouraging to see a great turnout of support. He said it is important for residents to take pride in their area, and for everyone to do their part to keep the community clean. Essex Director of Community Services, Jake Morassut, was pleased to see the turnout in Essex Centre, and commented
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2 I News Essex Free Press
I Thursday, May 12, 2022
Liberal candidate Manpreet Brar gets boost from Windsor-Tecumseh MP, and Dwight Duncan by Sylene Argent “This is such an exciting time. We have such a fantastic candidate here for Essex,” Edy Haddad, Chairperson of the Southwest Liberal Party Association, said of the party’s local provincial candidate during a campaign kick-off and motivational drive on Saturday afternoon. “We are so lucky to have Manpreet Brar represent us as the provincial candidate for the Riding of Essex.” During the event, held at her campaign office in Belle River, Brar got the nod of approval from fellow Liberals, current Windsor-Tecumseh MP, Irek Kusmierczyk, and former Deputy Premier of Ontario, Dwight Duncan. “This is a very challenging election, and we know we have our work cut out for us. But what we have to do is come together and support candidates like Manpreet,” Duncan said. “When you hear Doug Ford take credit for the [acute care] hospital [being designed for Windsor-Essex] don’t you believe it,” Duncan said to supporters. “He sat on that hospital for three-years; three long painful years.” In his opinion, had Ford did what needed to be done, the hospital would be under construction. A completion date of 2031, as it was recently suggested, is not good enough. “When someone like Manpreet puts their name on the ballot, it’s a giant step forward for them,” Duncan said, adding it is hard to be out there knocking on doors. “I am confident that with candidates like Manpreet – even in places like Essex – there’s going to be a lot of surprises on Election Night. There’s going to be a lot of unexpected
and they have under invested in frontline workers, and families in this community, and seniors.” Brar thanked everyone for their support to date, and gave them credit for helping to get her name on the ballot. She said after moving to the area with her husband several years ago, she began to get engaged with the community and started to get comfortable there. “Where I am…it is all because of my community here. This is my time to give back to this community, [the] Essex community – Essex area – who has done so much for me.” She said the last three terms under NDP leadership, the area has been “poorly represented at the Queen’s Park. Absolutely no funding, no job opportunities,” Brar said, speaking of opportunities recently announced for Windsor-Tecumseh. “We want the same thing to happen in Essex.” She said the Liberal Party did not have its platform fully rolled out, but she provided a few highlights, such as providing facilities – such as personal care services – for seniors who want to remain at home instead of going to a long-term care home, creating rehab centres, personal care places for seniors who have no one to care for them. The policy, outlined in a press release, includes helping 400,000 more seniors get home care by 2026; increasing funding for home care by 10 percent annually, prioritizing non-profit care, fund assisted living alternatives and “hub and spoke” community care; creating a dementia care network; and fully funding the clinical costs for hospices. To learn more about the Provincial Liberal Party platform, visit: ontarioliberal.ca
victories. And I am hoping, and I believe, it can happen, right here in Essex.” Kusmierczyk noted Brar has been involved with the Liberal Party for many years, but always supported other candidates as they attempted to earn a political seat. “You have shown up for all of us, now we are going to show up for you. We’ve got your back,” Kusmierczyk said to Brar. The past two-and-half years, Kusmierczyk said, there was a serious economic and health crisis. He challenged anyone to name a program, policy, or support the Progressive Conservative government in Queen’s Park has offered to residents of Windsor-Essex, “where that government stepped up and said ‘we will support you.’ You can’t, because they were absent. “Their crowning achievement…they announced they balanced the budget,” Kusmierczyk said. “Let me interpret that for you, what that means for a community that has gone through the largest economic and health crisis in the last century. When a government says that ‘we have balanced the budget’ that means they have under invested in hospitals, they have under invested in longterm care homes, they have under invested in workers,
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Thursday, May 12, 2022
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Essex Free Press
Council passes amendment to regulate STRs, provisionally adopts By-Law to licence and regulate Robert Auger, Director of Legislative Services/ Clerk, noted formal license applications will be accepted, if the property conforms to the Zoning ByLaw, on September 1. All STRs in Essex must be licensed by December 1. Getting a license (valid for three-years) includes full compliance with the Zoning By-Law, complete application form with supporting documents, payment of the fee, proof of insurance, a sketched floor plan and site plan, and getting a fire inspection. There is a demerit point system for enforcement. Mayor Richard Meloche wondered if there was a standard the Town could look at when noting the units have to be clean and sanitary, as he thought that wording was arbitrary. Chadwick noted the Property Standard By-Law still applies. Councillor Joe Garon believed the licensing fee was too low. He said this is a business, and perhaps there should be an adjustment in taxes as they are making money. Director of Corporate Services, Kate Giurissevich, said the licensing program will allow the Town to work with MPAC to ensure properties are properly zoned and taxed appropriately. Councillor Chris Vander Doelen said he believes this By-Law will go a long way in reducing and controlling the few problems experienced. He hoped it is not too onerous and scares off too many owners of the rental cottages and stamp out the tourism industry the Town has been trying to develop. He said it is a good start. Councillor Morley Bowman noted by-laws are never perfect when they first come out and are always a work in progress. Councillor Jason Matyi said he would still like to see a provision included that would require the owner/ operator live in their STU or within 100m. Chadwick said it would be impossible for Administration to enforce that for existing STRs, but could be for new ones that forward. Council did hear from a delegation, who noted they bought the house next door to their own to be an STR and experienced setbacks with the renovation because of COVID. They wanted to be included in the licensing program, and asked for an extension as they continue preparing their site. Vander Doelen made the motion that the delegates should be granted an exemption, so they can proceed as planned, with an extension date to June 30. Motion carried. Several Councillors spoke about directing administration to investigate a hotline or report a problem, so residents can report issues. Chadwick said Administration will investigate that to suggest best practice.
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by Sylene Argent On Monday evening, a special Council meeting was held to continue the discussion on Short Term Rental Units (STRs). Lori Chadwick, Director of Development Services, said the purpose of the meeting was to provide Council with a proposed Zoning By-Law Amendment and a stand-alone licensing By-Law for STRs. Staff recommended officially passing By-Law 2150, Being a By-Law to amend the Comprehensive Zoning By-Law 1037 to regulate Short Term Rentals (STRs) in the Town of Essex. In a recorded vote, after around two-hours of discussion, Council passed the motion unanimously, with Deputy Mayor Steve Bjorkman not participating in the conversation or vote as he declared a conflict of interest. In addition, Council provided provisional adoption of By-Law 2025, to licence and regulate STRs in the Town of Essex, with final adoption to take place at the May 16 regular meeting. The Zoning Amendment would permit a STR in a residential zoning district only if it has been established and in operation in an existing dwelling on or before the adoption of the By-Law on May 9, and that an STR will not be permitted in a Residential Zoning District if established after the adoption of By-Law 2150, except by approval of a site-specific rezoning through Council. This would trigger public notice and a public meeting to explain the proposal and seek public feedback from the neighbourhood. In addition, through By-Law 2150, new or existing STRs would be permitted in a single-detached dwelling in an agricultural district, or in dwelling or dwelling unit in a commercial district. New STRs would be permitted in a cabin within a campground in a green district. Council hosted public meetings on the topic earlier this year. At the May 2 meeting, members discussed Councillor Jason Matyi’s Notice of Motion, which asked Council to direct Administration to provide that all licence applications to operate STR properties established after a specified date in May require the owner of the STR to either be living in or on the property as their primary residence or be within 100metres of the property in their primary residence in order to be considered for a licence to operate a short term rental unit in a residential zoned property. As a result of the discussions on May 2, Chadwick suggested preparing a new zoning by-law amendment that would only recognize existing short term rentals, and would allow staff to license the ones that are existing. On Monday, discussions continued. “We truly feel that we have come forward with a solution that incorporates much of the concerns we have heard from members of the public, but also provides us with opportunities to offer accommodations, opportunities as part of our growing tourism sector,” Chadwick said. “Following what we hope is Council’s passing of these by-laws, there will be a team of professionals tasked with overseeing the licensing and enforcement of STRs.” Rita Jabbour, Manager of Planning, explained through the course of the year – through public open houses, meetings, and via correspondence from members of the public, business owners, and STR operators – staff members for the Town of Essex have been able to narrow down the common issues.
Lucas Martin, Owner Tecumseh-Essex-Leamington
4 I Opinion Essex Free Press
Editorial &Opinion Serving Essex and the surrounding communities since 1896.
Published Thursdays as an independent weekly newspaper, owned and operated by The Essex Voice Limited. A London Publishing Corporation Publication LIMITED OFFICE HOURS: Our office is closed to the public, currently. If you need to schedule an appointment, please call the office. COVID protocols in place. OUR STAFF Sandy Kennedy - Office Jessica Azar - Graphic Design / Social Media / Production Lana Warwick - Graphic Design Greg Belchuk - Advertising Sales Sylene Argent - Editor/News Reporter Shelley Beaudoin - Graphic Design / Production / Distribution
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I Thursday, May 12, 2022
Howling at the Moon ••• Comment by Sylene Argent ••• Those little things that remind us of others who matter
We all have things that remind us of the people we care about: whether it be a song, a movie, a place, or something as specific as a pepper shaker. Some of those reminders bring about good memories, while others remind us of the struggles we have gone through in the past. Yes, even a pepper shaker can trigger a thought of someone. And in my case, it’s a story that always makes me smile, reminding me of an uncle who passed away several years ago. I know I have mentioned it in this column before, but when I was little, my immediate and extended family spent a lot of time up north, both in the Sauble Beach area and Kirkland Lake. Many, many years ago, several members of my extended family pitched-in to buy property in the bush in the Kirkland Lake area. Despite it being a lengthy ten-hour or more ride to the new property, we enjoyed going up to the simple camp the family built
in just a few days as a place to stay and enjoy, while those who wanted to hunt did so. While building that camp, several of us, and there must have been like at least 15 people, squeezed ourselves into what we called a little red shack that we rented to stay. It was cramped, it was uncomfortable, and the mosquitos were so bad, we couldn’t barbecue in the dark because the flame would attract an extra layer of unwanted protein. Just the thought of it still grossed me out. One night, someone prepared steaks for dinner, likely before it got too dark to attract any of those bugs. Everyone was making a plate, including one of my uncles; a quiet man, who never really got riled up about much. And I guess that is probably why I remember this story so clearly. He was making a plate and reached for a disposable pepper shaker that someone had bought for the trip.
It was one of those ones that was basically made out of cardboard and a plastic lid. He gave it a few shakes to put some pepper on his steak, and to the amazement of everyone in view, the top of the shaker came off, and the entire contents of the shaker ended up on his dinner, leaving a mountain of pepper. Unfazed, he laughed, saying he would just wash it off. It ended up being one of those moments we teased him about the remainder of the trip. To this day, I think of him every time I pick up a pepper shaker or accidentally put too much spice on whatever it is I am preparing. It may be a little thing, but it has always been something that stuck with me over all these years.
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Opinion
Driving Me Crazy! by Shelley Beaudoin
Without fail, every morning on my drive into work and every afternoon on my drive home, there is a driver (or two) who speeds, darts in and out of traffic, passes multiple vehicles, and takes unnecessary risks to be a car ahead in the line. I admit that I travel a few kilometres over the speed limit on the county roads. And knowing that, I can testify that the vehicles that run up on my rear end and dart around me are travelling in excess of 110 kms an hour in an 80 km an hour zone. There is a twisted satisfaction I feel when I pull up to the red light on the corner of Arner and the #3 Bypass and I see the risk-taking speedster who felt the need to put me and others in danger, sitting there waiting at the light with the rest of us. Where are you going in such a hurry? I have been tempted to follow a few of these morning commuters to see exactly what the emergency is… okay, I have a couple of times. There is nothing special about their destinations nor do I suspect there were any emergencies at hand.
And what about the yahoos who think Jack’s Auto is an alternative route if the light on Talbot and Gosfield Townline is red? Not to mention the dipsticks who don’t realize you have to use a turning signal for the exit lane in the roundabout? And then there are the knuckle heads who still enter the Canadian Tire parking lot at the revamped entrance that is clearly marked with several ‘Do Not Enter’ signs. And the bird brains who continue to make illegal left turns on both sides of Talbot Street between Arthur and Gordon into the Southland Plaza and Schinkel’s parking lot. Slow down, follow the simple rules of the road, and be a bit more aware that you are not the only one on the road. There are also people out there who value their lives a bit more than you seem to value yours. Your regular morning commuter, Shelley Beaudoin
May is Lupus Awareness Month submitted to EFP May is Lupus Awareness Month, with May 10th being both World Lupus Day (internationally) and Lupus Awareness Day in Ontario. Lupus is a complex autoimmune disease that can impact virtually any organ of the body – skin, kidneys, brain, heart, eyes, and others – with profound life altering and life limiting consequences. Little is known about the disease as each patient presents with a differing array of symptoms. Ninety percent of patients are female, in the prime years of their life. Lupus Ontario is the largest provincial organization
in Canada geared toward providing support, awareness, and education of lupus to patients, caregivers, and health practitioners alike. Since its inception in 1978 Lupus Ontario has been instrumental in development of dedicated Lupus Clinics in Ontario and an ardent supporter of innovative research. In 1987, armed with determination to improve the lives’ of those living with lupus, the founders of Lupus Ontario, including Honey Agar and devoted volunteers, set out to raise $1M to create and launch a program that
Continued on Page 5
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OPP - At-fault Data linked to motorcycle fatalities submitted to EFP The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has released data that points to who was at fault in the collisions that cost close to 350 motorcyclists their lives over the past 10 years. Between 2012 and 2021, the OPP investigated 326 fatal motorcycle incidents that claimed the lives of 342 motorcyclists. Over the 10-year period, the motorcyclists who died were reportedly the at-fault driver in 60.7 per cent of the crashes, with 39.3 per cent of those who were at fault being drivers of other vehicles. One hundred and twenty (120) of the fatalities were
collisions that involved a single motorcycle, with at least one other vehicle being implicated in the other 222 deaths. The data is a stark reminder that there can be zero risks and errors on the part of motorcyclists and that even the safest, most defensive riders must rely on nearby motorists exercising the same degree of safety in order to avoid causing a deadly crash. Excessive speed, failing to yield right of way and driver inattention remain lead contributing factors in OPP-investigated motorcycle fatalities every year. With Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month marking
May is Lupus Awareness Month... Continued from Page 4 a world first – the Lupus Databank Research Program at Toronto Western Hospital. The Lupus Databank forms the foundation of lupus research through to the present day and was spearheaded by the globally renowned Dr. Murray Urowitz who continues to practice and conduct research. The Lupus Ontario commitment to ground-breaking research thrives today in exciting areas including the newly formed Lupus Ontario Anne Matheson Biobank, headed by Dr. Konstantinos Tselios. A true volunteer-based organization, Lupus Ontario continues to support research and novel approaches to foster discoveries and hope for lupus treatments. A vital component of this initiative is the support Lupus Ontario provides to the physician community. Through the years, Lupus Ontario has established six accredited Lupus Clinics in the Province of Ontario where those
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living with lupus and their caregivers can seek treatment and support. Crucial to understanding any disease is the commitment of dedicated physicians and researchers, the same is true in the quest to demystify the intricacies of lupus. This is the motivation behind the Geoff Carr Lupus Ontario Fellowship. Since its creation in 1990, the Geoff Carr Fellowship provided by Lupus Ontario – in honour of the late President of the Association of Commercial Travelers, instrumental in funding the fellowship program – has trained more than 30 Rheumatologists worldwide to specialize in lupus and has motivated each recipient to delve into lupus-based research. The program has funded specialized training through grants totalling more than $2M. As the Databank, Biobank and Geoff Carr Fellows continue to form the bedrock of lupus research initiatives, Lupus Ontario has become involved in advocacy efforts to bring light to an insidious, complicated disease. These efforts helped support the 2021 proclamation by the Government of Ontario proclaiming May 10th as Lupus Awareness Day in the province – the same date recognized globally as World Lupus Day. With awareness dedicated to this single day, and to the month of May as a whole, Lupus Ontario and their partners strive to continue to bring hope to those living with, caring for and treating the disease; shedding light on the causes of lupus and ultimately finding a cure. The astonishing impacts Lupus Ontario has been able to catalyze are direct results of dedicated partners, volunteers, and physicians. A true volunteer-patientbased organization, the goal has remained constant since 1978: Life Without Lupus. To learn more about Lupus Ontario, visit online: LupusOntario.org
the start of peak riding season, motorcyclists and other drivers need to watch out for each other at all times and be mindful that motorcycle safety is the responsibility of every driver. The OPP is reminding motorcyclists and drivers that sharing the road responsibly, observing posted speed limits and keeping alcohol, drugs and distractions off our roads are vital to reducing the number of motorcycle collisions, injuries and deaths. The OPP encourages motorcyclists to follow them on social media throughout the month to view some helpful motorcycle safety videos aimed at both new and experienced riders. QUICK FACTS: Riders between 45-54 years of age accounted for the highest number of motorcycle deaths on OPP-patrolled roads in the last 10 years. The OPP responded to 34 fatal motorcycle collisions in 2021, which claimed the lives of 35 motorcyclists. Learn more about motorcycle safety at: www.mmic.ca
Pet Of The Week: Brenna Brenna is 4-years old. She came in with some friends and now they are all looking for their fur-ever homes. Could your home be the one for her? She is a bit sassy and snappy, but with patience, she may just come around to love you the most! If you’re interested in adopting Brenna, submit an online application today! She looks forward to meeting you, even if she’s a little shy. All available animals are listed on our website. Our adoption centre is only open for walk ins on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1:30pm to 6pm, during these times WECHS staff will be available to assist you in the adoption process. The Windsor-Essex County Humane Society shelter is at 1375 Provincial Rd., Windsor. Ph: 519-966-5751. To start the adoption process online, please go to: windsorhumane.org/adoptable-animals
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6 I Opinion Essex Free Press
I Thursday, May 12, 2022
Supporting the agri-food sector means economic growth and prosperity for Ontario by Steve Brackenridge, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture Throughout the last two years, farmers and farm businesses have worked hard to adapt to the challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic. That included ensuring Ontarians continued to have access to locally grown food and keeping farm workers and rural communities healthy and safe. As an industry that contributes $47 billion a year to the provincial economy, agriculture is a key economic engine for Ontario. Agriculture will also be a key driver of the province’s post-pandemic economic recovery – and as candidates of all parties roll out their election campaigns, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is busy making sure the issues that matter to farmers and their communities are front and centre. We’ve already been
meeting with candidates over the last few months leading up to the provincial campaign to help build awareness of food and farming and what we need to thrive and support economic growth for all Ontarians. I’ve participated in a few of those meetings myself to share our provincial election priorities and provide more information about how supporting farms and rural communities will provide benefit to the entire province. Investing in rural infrastructure We believe the key to producing prosperity for Ontario is ensuring that economic development opportunities are spread more evenly across the province than they are now. The pandemic has shown clearly how inconsistent infrastructure and services can unfairly disadvantage the nonurban regions of our
province. Now, more than ever, all levels of government need to engage with the agricultural community to capitalize on the economic opportunities that the farming and food sector could additionally provide for the economy and its citizens. Ontario’s rural economy relies on properly constructed and maintained roads, bridges, and drainage to support the growth and transportation of goods and services. Simply put, when we can’t get trucks on the road, local food doesn’t make it to Ontario stores. Rural Ontarians pay anywhere from 30 to 100 percent more for energy than people in urban areas because many parts of the province still don’t have access to natural gas. If natural gas was available across Ontario, farmers, local businesses, and rural residents could save more than $1 billion in annual energy costs – money that could instead be used to create jobs and grow businesses. Fast, reliable and affordable internet has become an indispensable necessity of life in our modern world. Pandemicrelated restrictions that sent everything from school to social activities online certainly
highlighted that need – yet also illustrated how this piece of critical infrastructure is still not yet available to everyone in Ontario, putting rural Ontario at a competitive disadvantage to the rest of the province. That’s why we’re urging a newly elected government to make longterm investments in rural roads and bridges, reliable broadband internet, and affordable access to natural gas. But it’s not just about physical infrastructure. To attract and keep families in rural communities, our social infrastructure needs support as well. This means schools, healthcare, recreation, businesses, community hubs and programs, and mental health and wellness resources that can meet the unique needs of rural Ontario and the agri-food sector. Supporting responsible land use planning As a farmer, I believe strongly in the need for preserving farmland and protecting high quality agricultural land that is vital to our food production through responsible landuse planning – and we’ve been hearing that this is an
issue that matters to many candidates too. In Ontario, we grow and raise more than 200 hundred commodities, from grains, fruits and vegetables to milk, meat and eggs. Farmland is vital to our ability to grow food for Ontario, Canada and the world – after all, they’re not making any more of it, so it’s essential that we carefully look after this valuable resource that we have. Through responsible land-use practices, we know that farmland preservation can go handin-hand with addressing the province’s housing needs. The solution is two-fold: intensification of the residential development in our existing urban footprint to create complete and
liveable communities, along with the distribution of economic development province-wide. New investments in rural communities and distribution of economic development beyond just the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area will grow existing businesses and attract new ones and make those areas appealing for new residents to raise their families and build their lives. When you support local farmers, you are supporting the jobs and employment opportunities the agri-food sector creates, as well as the economic growth and prosperity it contributes to the province.
Voice Of Inspiration “We must never laugh at the struggle of another, even when it is something that we find to be easy and that we have not struggled with. Because we all have our own individual battles that we all need to work as hard at. Another’s struggle might be easy for you; but stop to think about yours. Is your battle easy? Or was it? No, it wasn’t, it isn’t. Well the other person’s isn’t easy, either. And I think this alone means we all need to give one another a beautiful kind of respect.” ~ C. JoyBell C.
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Essex Free Press
County of Essex Council notes for Wednesday, April 4 by Sylene Argent Enbridge asks for letter of support for Panhandle Regional Expansion Project County Council was asked to provide a letter of support for Enbridge’s Panhandle Regional Expansion Project, which will be included in its application filing to the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) in mid-June. With increased demand for energy, Brian Chauvin, Enbridge’s Manager of Operations for Windsor-EssexChatham, said Enbridge Gas is proposing the project to increase the capacity of its existing Panhandle transmission system, which serves residential, commercial, industrial, greenhouse, and power generation customers in WindsorEssex and Chatham-Kent. “To be very clear, this is a growth project,” Chauvin said. “We are seeing a significant demand for energy across all sectors of the economy.” This project, he added, will meet that current demand, and the future demand of the local area, with enough new energy to provide the equivalent of connecting 215,000 residential homes to the system in one year. The estimated cost of the project is close to $300M and would create hundreds of temporary local construction jobs. There are two main components to the project. The Panhandle Reinforcement component of the project will take part primarily in Chatham-Kent and Lakeshore. It would follow the existing Panhandle Transmission System. Construction would include 19kms of new pipeline, 36-inches in diameter. It would also include a new transmission station near Richardson Side Road and Middle Line in Lakeshore. It will be constructed in private easement, with some road crossings being required. If approved, construction would begin in 2023 and be completed later that year. The Leamington Interconnect component of the project would include new, 16-inch-in-diameter pipeline to connect several existing pipelines together, Chauvin explained. This will be around 12km in length. It will also be constructed in primarily private easements, with road crossings where needed, following County Road 8 and County Road 31. If approved, construction will take place in 2024. Based on the feedback garnered through the Expression of Interest process, over 11,500 jobs could be created through the business growth that are enabled through the increased energy capacity created through the project. Those interested in the project indicated total direct capital investment of nearly $6.4B, Chauvin added.
Due to the scope of the project, OEB approval is required prior to construction. A letter of support from County Council will help demonstrate the need for the project. Windsor, Chatham-Kent, Windsor-Essex Chamber, the ChathamKent Chamber, Leamington District Chamber, Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers, and Invest Windsor Essex have all supported the project. County Council supported the request. More presentations are set to take place at local Council meetings in the coming weeks. WECHU asks for support for school charter The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), along with the Windsor-Essex County Active School Travel Regional Committee, sought Essex County Council’s endorsement for the implementation of an Active School Travel Charter. Eric Nadalin, Director of Public Health Programs for the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, explained the charter was part of a successful grant application awarded through Green Communities Canada in November 2020 through the Ontario Active School Travel (OAST) fund. This fund supports the development, promotion, and implementation of active school travel across communities in Ontario. Kevin Morris, Health Promotion Specialist with the chronic disease and injury prevention department at the WECHU, said active student travel is defined as humanpowered modes of transportation to and from school. Most commonly, this includes, biking, scootering, walking, skateboarding, and rollerblading. “Active School Travel has many benefits,” Morris said. “It increases children’s activity levels, enhances academic performance, and reduces the amount of air pollution and amount of traffic in and around school zones to make it safer for students to be active.” The WECHU, and partners, applied for the grant in the fall of 2020. In December, they were notified they would receive $60,000 in funding through the OAST. The funds were to be used for active transportation initiatives for schools throughout Windsor-Essex County. To implement the initiatives, an Active School Regional Committee was formed, including reps from local school boards and other partners. The partners are matching in the form of monetary or in-kind contributions. Morris noted to date, an active school travel planner has been hired, who oversees the coordination of the activities, a term of reference was created for the regional committee, and an after school travel charter was made. Pilot schools were also established, which oversee some of the larger active school travel initiatives; three schools from the county (including Holy Name Catholic Elementary School in Essex) and three from the city. Some of the things planned next include installing recently purchased bike racks at the pilot schools, delivering bike safety seminars, implementing AST activities, such as crosswalk painting, and promoting universal AST initiatives, such as walking school bus
programs. One of the key initiatives was to establish an AST Charter, which helps strengthen regional coordination and collaboration, leverages collective resources and capacity to support program sustainability, and serves as a set of principles to encourage more active transportation in local communities, Morris said. He explained endorsing the AST charter demonstrates a commitment to active transportation, in alignment with other municipal mandates, and becomes an avenue for municipalities, community operations, and local school boards to collectively pursue opportunities to ensure longterm program stability. The AST Charter will provide guidance and direction for future active transportation initiatives in and around schools. County Council voted to endorse the initiative. Cross Border Land Ambulance Mutual Aid agreement endorsed Essex County Council endorsed the recommendation to adopt a by-law, authorizing the Warden and Clerk to execute a Cross Border Land Ambulance Mutual Aid Agreement between the County of Essex and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. It also voted to rescind Bylaw 35-2013 immediately following the execution of the Cross Border Land Ambulance Mutual Aid Agreement. Essex-Windsor EMS Chief, Bruce Krauter, prepared the report on the matter, and CAO Mike Galloway presented the information. He explained the County of Essex and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent share a border and have historically utilized each other’s EMS resources for areas within the coverage zones of the EMS stations along that border. This arrangement has been in place since the province downloaded Land Ambulance services to the County and is outlined in the deployment plans of each of the services. Essex-Windsor EMS and Chatham-Kent Emergency Services have had an excellent working relationship since 2017, the Report to County Council notes. Galloway said in recent years, the way in which the billing is completed has become somewhat cumbersome from an administrative perspective. In 2017, a study began to see how many cross-border instances there were, and see if there was a need to complete hundreds of transactions back-and-forth when each provided service to each municipality. Pointing to the research in 2022 and 2021, Galloway
Continued on Page 8
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8 I Communnity / News Essex Free Press
Lakeshore Fire goes vertical with training exercise Firefighters take on midrise building rescue scenario
I Thursday, May 12, 2022
County of Essex Council notes for Wednesday, April 4... Continued from Page 7
Pictured are members of the Lakeshore Fire Department during a training exercise held last week. Photos by Tyler Phaneuf-Reeves (Municipality of Lakeshore)
submitted to EFP On International Firefighters’ Day (May 4, 2022), members of the Lakeshore Fire Department tackled an elevated training exercise at a local six-storey building. The training exercise included a rescue from the top floor, extinguishment of a simulated fire, and smoke removal from the building. “The growth of Lakeshore’s population and increase in the number of multi-unit residential buildings creates the potential for new scenarios which we need to be
prepared for,” said Lakeshore Fire Chief Don Williamson. “This exercise was an opportunity to practice how we respond to emergencies in a multi-storey building. A real scenario provides hands on training and an opportunity to modify our processes.” As a reminder, Lakeshore Fire is asking all residents and property owners to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, including checking contacts and replacing old batteries, removing manufacturer packaging, and testing units to ensure functionality.
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said even though there have been a few hundred calls between the municipalities, the outcome is negligible. “There have been recent discussions between the two EMS services to revive the mutual aid agreement, and that billing would not occur, unless an emergency response in the other municipality’s jurisdiction would require an upstaffing of any additional ambulance for a prolonged period of time,” Galloway said. County Council approved the recommendation. Safety measures to be added to CR 20/CR 23 intersection, speed review to come County Council directed Administration to implement pavement markings stating “STOP AHEAD” and “STOP,” and to install side-mounted flashing beacons above the stop signs at the intersection of County Road 20 and County Road 23 (Arner Townline). The intersection borders Essex and Kingsville. In addition, Administration will undertake a pilot project adding colour and/ or texture to the road surface in advance of the stop sign. Administration made the recommendation after being directed to review the intersection at past County Council meetings. Jerry Behl, Manager of Transportation Planning and Development, said the flashing beacons bring drivers’ attention to the presence of the stop. They “are particularly useful where visibility is reduced,” such as where there are hills or bends in the road. These are countermeasures that are quick to do and are supplementary ways to emphasize the stop control. At the February 16 regular County Council meeting,
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Kingsville Deputy Mayor Gord Queen, put forward a Notice of Motion that at the March 2 meeting County Council consider the best options moving forward for this particular intersection, including the option of a controlled intersection or other best possibilities. At the March 2 meeting, County Council directed Administration to review the request from the Town of Kingsville, seeking a controlled intersection at the County Road 20 and County Road 23 intersection, and to report back to County Council with recommendations. The Town of Essex and the Town of Kingsville each passed resolutions, urging the County to investigate safety measures for the intersection. Behl said he will come back to County Council with a review of the speeds coming up to the intersection. Essex Mayor Richard Meloche said he believes the beacons will be more important to the intersection than the speed, and would not want to see them removed if a recommendation to lower the speed does come forward in the future. He also asked about approaching County Road 23, when on County Road 20, in perhaps drawing attention to drivers that they are approaching a possibly dangerous intersection. County admin will provide update on County Road 27/Highway 3 intersection Kingsville Mayor Nelson Santos asked if a review was being conducted for the County Road 27/Highway 3 intersection. CAO Mike Galloway said County Administration will update County Council on the intersection for the next Council meeting in regards to the Highway 3 widening and any updates and changes in regards to that project.
Thursday, May 12, 2022
I
Community I 9
Essex Free Press
Busy time for Essex Kent Junior Farmers
submitted to EFP April was been a busy month for the Essex Kent Junior Farmers. The group started the month hosting a SMV (Slow Moving Vehicle) sign exchange to allow farmers to bring their old beat-up signs and get a new shiny one for only $5. Thanks to the support from the Essex County Federation of Agriculture, the group replaced 38 signs. The second event was a joint event, in London, on April 9. Members from Essex Kent Junior Farmers, Huron-Perth and Middlesex clubs enjoyed an afternoon of bowling and socializing. To close the month of April the group held its monthly meeting, followed by some axe throwing and dinner. The Junior Farmers’ Association of Ontario (JFAO) provides opportunities for young people, aged 15-29, of all backgrounds, but especially those in rural Ontario, to take on the challenge of exploring their individual talents and potential to develop personally while being involved in bettering their communities, networking,
OPP report - School Bus Safety Reminder submitted to EFP The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reminding residents of Essex County that passing a stopped school bus with its upper red lights and extended arm flashing is not only against the law but extremely dangerous. Interesting Facts: • Each school day in Ontario, approximately 800,000 students are transported in 18,000 school vehicles traveling nearly 2 million kilometres. • There are approximately 700 companies operating school vehicles in Ontario. • Ontario has approximately 54,000 school bus driver licence holders. • School vehicle injuries represent less than one percent of total road injuries to youth in Ontario. • School vehicle fatalities represent less than one-half of one percent of total road fatalities affecting youth in Ontario. • When a school bus fatality does occur, it is most likely to happen outside the school bus when students are entering or exiting the bus. Vehicle owners need to be aware that if the driver can’t be identified, the owner can be charged for the offence provided the licence plate number is obtained by any witness. Essex County OPP is reminding motorists that drivers or vehicle owners will be charged if their vehicle illegally passes a stopped school bus. Fines range from $400 to $2,000 plus 6 demerit points. Our children are our future and each of us has a role to play in keeping them safe.
and having fun. Members across the province have the opportunity to participate in exchanges with several countries, as well
as provincial sport, cultural, and skills competitions. For more info on JFAO, email us at Essexkentjf@gmail. com, find us on social media or visit online at: jfao.on.ca
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10 I News Essex Free Press
I Thursday, May 12, 2022
St. Paul’s Meet the Candidates event introduces those running in Provincial Election - LeClair only one who attends -
by Sylene Argent On Thursday evening, candidates running in the Provincial Election had the opportunity to participate in a Meet the Candidates night at St. Paul’s Anglican Church. Each of the candidates were given 15 questions highlighting issues of concern leading up to the event, with five questions to be selected at random. Ron LeClair for the NDP attended the event, while Liberal candidate Manpreet Brar and PC candidate Anthony Leardi both sent lastminute regrets, due to unforeseen circumstances. Reverend Chris
Brouillard-Coyle emceed the event. She said St. Paul’s is a church that is connected to the community and representatives from the church have connected to those who are in need and are vulnerable. After having a meeting with the Church’s Board of Directors, it was noted policy making has to do with those in politics, who vote to make rules. So, they set up an opportunity to ask those running in this Provincial Election questions they thought were important. LeClair said he spent 30-years in policing in Windsor and watched
successive Liberal and Conservative governments continue to do the same things, including making cuts to healthcare and mental health supports. He said he saw these parties fail to address addiction and homelessness, which he said has become a crisis in the province and country. “I thought, there has got to be a better way. We are spending all of this money and resources to have police attend calls, ambulance attend calls to bring people to the hospital, but there is no solution, there is no follow-up, and it is just a cycle and the cycle is out of control,” LeClair said. The NDP, he said, offers a solution to that, including investing in healthcare and making mental health supports fall under OHIP. “By bringing mental health supports under OHIP, if we build the proper supports, we can stop spending money on the policing, and focus on healthcare for people,” he said. When asked about homelessness services primarily being available in the city, he spoke of how he worked behind the scenes to urge Essex to purchase Harrow High School property. He said the former high school could be a hub that could provide some of those services, but a partnership with the government needs to be established.
“If I become your MPP, I will work to leverage what could be provided at that community hub,” he said. During the event, LeClair was asked where he would take policy or direct spending to break the cycle of crime being a revolving door for policing, courts, social services, addictions, and mental health. LeClair spoke about reallocating funding within the policing envelope. Police, he said, need to develop a larger mobile crisis unit response. “We need to make sure we start directing, internally, funds to [mobile crisis units] – which means a police officer and a social worker – who handle nonpolice related social crisis issues,” LeClair said, adding those officers and
social workers need to be available 24-hours a day, seven days a week, 365days a year. Proper supports also need to be made available to those who need them, he said, adding once at the hospital, those in crisis should not need to wait multiple hours in a hallway before seeing a doctor. When asked about housing, LeClair said the NDP intends to put restrictions on rent increases and in terms of homebuying, the NDP is suggesting a government supported program for firsttime buyers (equivalent to 10 percent of the purchase price), repayable once they sell their house. The NDP is also looking at building thousands of units through its policies. He was also asked about the infrastructure needed to
support electric vehicles, and their disposal. LeClair said the NDP has the Green New Deal, with a focus on how to transition the economy from the industrial age to the electrified, and what he hopes will include hydrogen vehicles. Appropriate infrastructure, like charging stations down the 401, need to be available to support that. “We also need to look at developing the technology on how we recycle the elements that are in batteries,” he said, adding the process of extracting elements for the batteries is a challenge in itself for the environment. The event was open to the public and streamed online via St. Paul’s social media.
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Thursday, May 12, 2022
I
Community I 11
Essex Free Press
Skills Sweep! - High school students clean up at Ontario trades competition
Pictured is CNC Woodworking Bronze Medal winner Michael Edgar.
submitted to EFP (Windsor, Ontario, Thursday May 5, 2022) – Students from two of the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB) high schools recently swept two categories of a provincial competition which showcases their abilities in the skilled trades. “This is like the student Olympics of skilled trades in Ontario, and we are absolutely thrilled with the way our students performed,” said
Pictured is CNC Woodworking Gold Medal winner David Hanratty.
Pictured is CNC Woodworking Silver Medal winner Nate Rodzik
Cory McAiney, the board’s Teacher Consultant for Pathways, the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, and Technological Studies. “They put a tremendous amount of preparation into this competition, and we couldn’t be more proud of them.” The Skills Ontario virtual competition was held over a two week period, with WECDSB students competing on April 25. Depending on their trade, students were required to complete a task to demonstrate their level of capability. Here’s how they performed:
CNC Woodworking Competition: Teacher – Michael Costello Gold Medal - David Hanratty (St. Anne Catholic High School) Silver Medal - Nate Rodzik (St. Anne Catholic High School) Bronze Medal - Michael Edgar (St. Anne Catholic High School)
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Brick and Stone Masonry: Teacher – Marko Senjanin Gold Medal – Matthieu Bernard (F.J. Brennan Catholic High School/ Construction Academy) Silver Medal – Lauren Bayn (F.J. Brennan Catholic High School/ Construction Academy) Bronze Medal – Madison Vasile (F.J. Brennan Catholic High School/
Pictured is the Brick and Stone Masonary winners: Matthieu Bernard, Lauren Bayn, and Madison Vasile.
Construction Academy) “Over the last several years we have placed a great deal of emphasis on encouraging our students to explore more of the exciting careers that exist in the skilled trades sector, so it’s very rewarding to see students taking advantage of the opportunities we provide them and performing so well at the provincial level,” said Emelda Byrne, Director of Education. “Whether it’s our extremely popular Construction Academies, our Specialist High Skills Majors programs, or co-op education programs, students are getting handson experience in a wide-variety of trades before they even leave high school. Judging by the way they performed in this competition, I’m sure these students have very bright futures ahead of them.”
12 I Classifieds
Essex Free Press
Classifi Classi fieds _____________________
FARMING
_____________________ WANTED Farm Land to Rent Cash or Share Crop Call Jeff Siefker (cell) 519-796-1240 or (home) 519-776-9501. 1-t
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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 _____________________ KENNETH YARDWORKS Spring CleanUp. 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
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INCOME TAX _____________________ INCOME TAX PREPARATION: Good rates on personal, rental, and business returns. E-file or paper file. Call Jeannette Grass (519) 890-9111 6-10* _____________________ INCOME TAX Confidential preparation of Personal, Farm, and Senior Returns. Contact-free pick-up and delivery in Windsor and Essex County. E-file or regular filing. Over 35-years experience. Call Tim Mousseau 519-975-2414 or toll free 1-855-975-2414. 5-12* _____________________
FOR RENT
_____________________ FOR RENT - 2 bedroom luxury Condo with balcony in Lakeshore. Close to all amenities. Call: 519-776-4557. 15-4t*
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_____________________ TWO SIDEBYSIDE BURIAL PLOTS FOR SALE - Victoria Memorial Gardens, Hwy.3, Windsor. Save hundreds off the current pricing. Asking $4200. Seller will split cost of transfer-fee. Contact: 226280-7056 . 17-3t* _____________________ FOR SALE - Old crystal, music boxes, decorative spoons, dishes, records, bells. 551 W. County Rd. 34, 8am - 5pm Monday - Saturday. 18-1t*
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
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HELP WANTED Looking for mature IN-HOME WORKER for two young adults. Duties include respite, personal care, and community outings. Reliable transportation and ability to drive a wheelchair van a must. 15-35 hours/ week. Day, afternoon, and Saturday shifts. Please email resume to clarksonhouse@wavedirect.net or call 15-1t 519-776-4597. _____________________
FREE ESTIMATES - Cash for all Unwanted Gold JEWELRY (even Broken) ALL GOLD + SILVER COINS, All MINT SETS, ALL ROLEX WATCHES + windup watches +Sterling JEWELRY, some COSTUME Flatware GUITARS 9am-4pm. Friday, May 27 at K of C Hall, 190 Richmond St Amherstburg. Sunday, May 29 at the Essex Legion, 103 Talbot St North, Essex. June 3 & 4 at the Essex Railway Station, 87 Station St Essex. Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 54 yrs Exp. House calls available - 51917-4t 818-1805 _____________________
3 FAMILY YARD SALE! - Saturday, May 14th, 8am - 4pm. 10046 Walker Rd. Look for JUMP! Realty sign. 18-1t _____________________ YARD SALE! - Friday & Saturday, May 13 & 14, 9am - 5pm. Fishing equipment, tools, rods & reels, tackle boxes, and 18-1t more! 111 Kimball Dr., Essex.
_____________________ FOR SALE - Pride XL Mobility 4-wheel mid-size Scooter. 5-years old. Asking $1000.00 as is. Call: 519-776-9873. 15-2t*
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HELP WANTED
_____________________ HELP WANTED Local truss assembly plant is hiring full-time truss builders. Monday to Friday and occasional Saturdays during busy season. Benefits after 3 months along with a boot allowance. Experience an asset but not required. Call 519-839-4301 or email resume to cindyh@rivardtruss.com. _____________________ HELP WANTED: Greenhouse and Packing line Labour. General greenhouse labour, duties include pruning, picking, planting and cleaning of greenhouse. Packing line labour, duties include inspecting, weighing and packing produce on assembly line. Lifting, bending and standing is required. Must be able to work all shifts. Rural area. No public transportation available. No specific education required. Experience is an asset. Rate of pay- $15.00. To apply please email: Lindsay@policellafarms. com Or Mail to Domric International, PO Box 218, Ruthven ON N0P 2G0. 1-tfn _____________________
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 $15.00/hour. Full time hours - Monday through Friday with occasional Saturdays. Please apply at careers@tilray.com or mail resume to P.O. Box 20009 269 Erie St. S. Leamington, ON N8H 3C4. _____________________ HIRING A VISUAL ART STUDENT For 9-weeks starting May 30, 2022. $15 per hour, portfolio for interviews. apply Maidstone Museum, 1093 Puce Rd. Essex, On N8M 2X7. 17-1t _____________________ HIRING! LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE and LANDSCAPE LABOURERS, $18/hour. Experience necessary. Fax your resume to (519) 723-2336 or email to quinlaninc@ kelcom.igs.net 1-1tfn
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I Thursday, May 12, 2022
Email your classified info to:
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519 776 426 519-776-4268
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 _____________________
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
YARD SALE
YARD SALE
_____________________ 2 FAMILY YARD SALE - Saturday, May 14th, 9am-? Novels, toys, décor... a little bit of everything! 247 Maidstone Ave East, Essex 18-1t _____________________ MOVING SALE! - 3225 McCormick Rd. (off 4th conc. - 3rd house from corner). Friday, May 13, 1:30 - 5pm & Saturday, May 14, 10am - 4pm. Old dresser, singer sewing machine in table, furniture, antique chairs, lots of classical music CDs & more. 18-1t
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Thursday, May 12, 2022
I
News I 13
Essex Free Press
OPP Top Call for Service in March was for property checks - Essex Police Services Board to host contest to distribute $500 of Good Samaritan funds by Sylene Argent During its meeting last Thursday afternoon, members of the Essex Police Services Board learned the Top Call for Service into local OPP during the month of March was for property checks, with 31 requests. Other Top Calls for Service included 27 for traffic enforcement, 25 for alarms, 23 for bylaw complaints, 20 for community service, 18 traffic complaints, 18 mental health calls, 18 property-related requests, 17 motor vehicle collisions, and 15 regarding suspicious vehicles. In total, 481 calls were put into the OPP from within the Town of Essex, which was comparable to the 525 put in during the same month is 2021 and 393 in 2020. In all local OPP policed communities, this accounted for a 5.1 percent decrease in Calls for Service in March 2022, compared to March 2021, excluding E-tickets. There was a 17.2 percent increase in violent crime in March 2022, compared to March 2021 in all four local
OPP communities. Essex had seven of these calls, which was comparable to the seven it experienced in the same month in 2021 and eight in 2020. Looking at adjacent communities, Kingsville had six, while Tecumseh had 10, and Lakeshore 11. Property crime was down in Essex during the month of March, with 18 calls. In the same month in 2021, there were 19, and 25 in 2020. Kingsville had 19 property crime instances, while Tecumseh had 27 and Lakeshore had 42. Looking at all four communities, there was a 13.1 percent decrease in property crime in March 2022 compared to March 2021. In March, Essex had 17 motor vehicle collisions, which was comparable to the 13 experienced during the same month in 2021 and 24 in 2020. Kingsville had 18, while Tecumseh had 32 and Lakeshore had 39. In March, there was one impaired and exceed offence in Essex, with one also going through the Provincial Unit, and two each in Kingsville, Lakeshore,
Voice Of Inspiration “Building a bridge requires the help of other people. It is an active process involving connections, bonding, and collaboration; working together, we build a newer and richer mutual understanding.” ~
Lisa Fain
and Tecumseh. Essex had the lowest driver’s license suspensions at one, while the Provincial Unit and Kingsville had three each, and Tecumseh and Lakeshore had five each. In looking at Criminal Code/YCJA Charges in March, Essex had 16, which was comparable to the 26 experienced in the same month last year and 10 in 2020. Tecumseh had 22, the Provincial Unit had 23, and Kingsville and Lakeshore each had 28. Totalling all local OPP policed municipalities, there was a 14.7 percent
increase in Criminal Code charges in March 2022 compared to March 2021. In all local OPP policed communities, there were 22 drug offences in March, none of which took place in Essex. There were ten federal cannabis-related charges in Kingsville and six in Lakeshore, and two provincial cannabis charges in each Tecumseh, Lakeshore, and through the Provincial Unit. This accounts for a 10 percent increase in drug offences in March 2022 compared to March 2021 In March, there
were 21 POA charges in Essex, while there were 26 in Kingsville, 39 in Tecumseh, and 74 in Lakeshore. Overall, this accounts for a 23.8 percent decrease in provincial offences in March 2022 compared to March 2021. In March in Essex, 51 traffic stops were conducted, with 21 tickets and 15 warnings. There were 18 mental health calls in Essex in March, two through the Provincial Unit, 12 in Tecumseh, 21 in Lakeshore, and 24 in Kingsville. Looking at
all local OPP policed communities, this accounts for a 16.7 percent increase in Mental Health Response Unit calls in March 2022 compared to March 2021. Chairperson of the Essex Police Services Board, Essex Councillor Kim Verbeek, was excited the Board approved her Good Samaritan idea. She explained the
Continued on Page 14
14 I Personals / News /Opinion
Essex Free Press
I Thursday, May 12, 2022
FromThe Heart OPP Top Call for Service in March was for
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. _________________________________________________________
IN LOVING MEMORY
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property checks... Essex OPP had over $700 of unclaimed money that good Samaritans found and surrendered to the police over the last several years. Verbeek noted that after so long, if those dollars are unclaimed, it is supposed to be forwarded to the Police Services Board. Her idea was that because the money was returned by good Samaritans, Verbeek wanted a way
Continued from Page 13
to honour that. So, she came up with an idea to have a contest in Essex, where people can submit a name, accompanied with a short essay outlining the good deeds that person has done. The submissions will be compiled and five winners will be drawn, each taking home $100. The remaining funds will be sent back to the police services. Officers often lend a hand, when they see
people in need in the community. Those funds can be used to help those officers with helping various needs within the community they come across, at their discretion. “I’m really excited about it,” she said. More information about the Good Samaritan contest will be released as details are finalized.
OFA sees protection of farmland as key to long-term food security
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IN LOVING MEMORY
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OBITUARIES
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DEWAAL, Louis - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Louis on May 3, 2022, at 77 years of age. He is survived by his loving long-time companion of 40 years, Janet McLean; his dear sister, Elisabeth; his niece, Alyssa and many relatives in Holland. Louis was predeceased by his parents, Louis and Elisabeth. Louis enjoyed gatherings with friends, fishing, boating, and growing tomatoes. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. As per his wishes, he will be cremated. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Donations in his name may be made to your favourite charity and would be appreciated. Kennedy Funeral Home Ltd. (519-776-7378) 128 Talbot St. North, Essex entrusted with the arrangements. You may send your condolences online at www.kennedyfh.com
by Drew Spoelstra, Vice President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture For decades, farmers have been losing prime farmland to urban sprawl. I have seen several productive farms turned into housing developments, soccer fields, shopping malls, movie theatres and highway extensions. Our Home Grown campaign paints a very concerning picture using a time-lapse to illustrate the far-reaching impacts urban development has had on specific regions across the province. As we continue the trend of losing acreage every day, I think it’s time we ask ourselves, “How do we plan on producing safe, sustainable food for a growing population if our farmers are losing the finite resources needed to grow and produce these commodities?” On March 30, 2022, the Ontario government introduced legislation that will help support plans to increase the province’s housing supply. The government committed to completing a housing supply action plan every year for the next four years, beginning 2022-23. These legislative changes came shortly after the Ontario Housing Affordability Task Force released their recommendations report. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) supports the goal of building more homes to accommodate a growing population. We recognize the challenges Ontarians face with soaring housing costs, so we believe the answer for farmers and nonfarmers alike lies with smart land-use planning policy. For Ontario to continue to grow and prosper, we must have a long-term plan to preserve productive land for the purpose of food production. With the global population projected to rise to 9.8 billion by 2050, an increase in affordable housing supply will need to be accommodated, but so too will the demand for food production. To put this into perspective, less than 5% of Ontario’s land base can support agricultural production for human consumption. In fact, we’ve lost 1.5 million acres of farmland to development between 1996 and 2016 alone – which is the equivalent of 175 acres per day. New research also shows that southwestern Ontario lost more than 72,000 acres of prime agricultural land to urban development from 2000 to 2017. Ontario cannot sustain these continuing losses while still maintaining our ability to produce food, fibre and fuel from a limited and declining agricultural land base. OFA has been addressing the issue of farmland preservation and local food production in recent meetings with provincial election candidates. As farmers, we’re happy to meet the demand for more
local food, but that means our province needs to make preserving farmland and containing urban sprawl a priority. Long-term land-use planning must balance responsible urban growth with protecting agricultural land to ensure that future generations have the resources necessary to continue to grow food for Ontarians and Canadians right here at home. Within my community, I have seen constant urbanization of farmland. I have known many farmers who have been forced to relocate due to urban
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What’s Going On... MAY 15 4TH WALL MUSIC PRESENTS ‘THE BIRDSONG INSIDE US’ - Live music at Hillman Marsh 2pm and Live at the Capitol, Windsor 7pm. For tickets & Info: 4thwallmusic.com MAY 21 PLATINUM JUBILEE OF HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II - at 3p.m. in Kings Navy Yard Park, Amherstburg. A free concert in the park with Beatles tribute. MAY 28 INDOOR YARD SALE at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 92 St Paul Street, Essex, 9am-2pm. 519-776-7711. JUNE 5 St. Mary’s Parish 175th Anniversary - 12:30pm with singing, Mass, bbq, baseball game, and historical displays. For more info contact Judy at 519-737-6628. JUNE 9 12 LASALLE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL at the Vollmer Recreation Complex. Info at: lasalle.ca/en/things-to-do/strawberry-festival.aspx JUNE 25 KINGSVILLE HIGHLAND GAMES At Lakeside Park, Kingsville with gates opening 8:30am. Tickets and information available at: kingsville.ca/highlandgames HIATUS HOUSE: offers counselling services in Essex County. Women’s Fresh Start group therapy is once a week. For info or to schedule an intake appointment, call the 24-hour Hiatus House helpline at 519-252-7781. WINDSOR AND DISTRICT OSTOMY SUPPORT GROUP meeting on April 24, May 29, & June 26 at 1p.m. at Cottam United Church, 137 Talbot Rd. W. Cottam. Our support group is for those who have had or will have ostomy surgery. Family members and/ or friends welcomed.
Thursday, May 12, 2022 I
Community Hub / Community
Essex Free Press
sponsorship by:
available at the back of the church. Deadline is May 31st. Essex K of C Fish Fry takes place on May 27th from 4:30 - 7pm. at Holy Name of Jesus parish hall. Eat in or take out available. Save the date for St. Mary’s 175th Anniversary on Sunday, June 5th. For up-to-date news, please visit our website: centralessexcatholic.dol or social media.
Trinity Anglican Church
Fresh food. Friendly neighbours 191 Talbot St. S., Essex
519-776-4255 Essex Christian Reformed Church submitted by Beverley Van Huizen
Our Sunday morning worship service begins at 10am. All safety protocols are in place or you may join us online. Visit www.essexcrc.ca for a link to our social media page for upcoming services, information, and updates. At this time, we cannot offer nursery supervision or Sunday school. Enjoy our ‘Take-a-book-Leave-a-book’ library located in front of the church.
Salvation Army Essex Church
Orders are being taken for frozen pies. Please call the church at 519-839-5303 to place your order. We will hold a bake sale and craft sale on Saturday, June 4th during the Cottam yard sales. You’re welcome to visit our little library in front of the gazebo; leave a book, take a book. This week, we welcome Rev.’d Tom Anderson, his wife Tara and their son Talon. We welcome everyone to our Sunday morning services at 9:30 am. Masks are required.
Brooker News submitted by Ruth Newman
On Sunday, May 15, Doug Baert from Faithville will be with us at 10am service. Bible study & Prayer is every Wednesday at 11am. Everyone is welcome. Please remember in prayer, the many people in our community with health needs and to those impacted by the war in Ukraine.
submitted by Carolyn Barnett
Major Jim Hann leads Family Worship Sundays at 10:30a.m. Join us on May 15, as his sermon topic is “Joy.” If you are looking for a church family, you will receive a warm welcome at 26 Talbot Street South! The Book of Luke is our Bible Study focus. Join us Tuesdays at 1p.m. as Major Hann leads an interesting discussion of this well known Gospel. Cookies and cereal are always in demand at our Food Bank. If you wish to make a donation of any non perishable food, you can drop it off at the church between the hours of 9a.m. and 2 p.m. Tues., Wed., or Fri. Donations are always appreciated. For food Bank info, call the church at 519-7764628. Please continue to pray for the sick and shut- ins in our community and for the people in the Ukraine.
Central Essex County Catholic Family of Parishes Essex, Maidstone, McGregor, and Woodslee news Our Family Pasta Dinner & Bingo is on Saturday, May 14th at 5pm. at Holy Name of Jesus parish hall. Proceeds to support the youth attending the Steubenville Conference in Toronto. Tickets available at the door or in advance from Nick. Quest youth group for Grades 2-4 is on May 18 and Rooted youth group for Grades 5-7 is on May 25. Thrive for teens take place on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month. These all takes place at Holy Name of Jesus parish hall. All children are welcome. Euchre night Is on May 16th at 7pm at Holy Name of Jesus parish hall. Sponsored by the Essex K of C. St. John’s CWL bursary applications for post secondary are
Bethel-Maidstone United We are pleased to welcome Susan Anderson as our Guest Speaker on Sunday, May 15th. Please join us Sunday morning at 10am to hear her message, “A New Vision”. All are welcome. Our building is wheelchair accessible. There is no Sunday School offered at this time. The Children’s Drop-In Centre also continues to be paused at this time until further notice. The secretary can be reached Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9am - 1pm. Our number is (519) 723-2284 and our email is bethelmaidstone@gmail.com. We are located at 933 Talbot Road, Maidstone, near the corner of Manning Road and Talbot. You can find us on the web at www.bethelmaidstone.com
Woodslee United Church submitted by Sue Holman
Come join us for Sunday Service and Sunday School at 10:45 am. Rev. Carl will lead the service. The Bulletins and services are available at: woodsleepastoralcharge.ca . Come in for a cup of coffee or tea and get in on the conversation. Every Thursdays at 10am. Everyone is welcomed. The Woodslee Friendship Club plays Euchre on Mondays at 1pm and Pepper on Wednesdays at 1pm at Woodslee United Church Hall. We welcome all players but we require proof of double vax. Join us for fun afternoon.
Essex Baptist Church Our congregation is open and welcomes you to join us for Sunday worship at 10:30 am. Recorded messages are on our website at: www.essexbaptist.com
I 15
We contiue to pray for God’s blessing on all of Essex County. Let us know how we can, more specifically, pray for you. (email: pastor@essexbaptist.com). 71 Maidstone Ave East.
Essex United Church
Join us for worship on Sunday, May 15th at 10:30am. Everyone is welcome. Keep up to date on our website www.essexunitedchurch. ca. Also, you can join us on social media. Go to our website www.essexunitedchurch.ca and look for the buttons at the top left of the page. The Essex Food Bank is open - Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30am – 11:45pm. The Food Bank phone number is: 519776-4070.
Essex Retirees’ Club News
Card winners for Monday afternoon Pepper were: Mavis Law with high score, Terry duance with the most Peppers, and Tom Dewhurst with low score. Winners at the Wednesday Night Pepper were: High was Gary West, Most Peppers was Wayne Rawson, and low was Katie Starzacker.
St. Paul’s Anglican Church submitted by Sandra Lypps
Our weekly Service is Sunday at 11am, all are welcome! Thank you to all who came out to the Provincial candidates meeting last week, if you missed it, read about it in this edition of the Essex Free Press. We are having an indoor yard sale on Saturday, May 28th from 9am - 2pm. The next Vendors Market will take place on Saturday, June 11, from 10am til 2pm. For more information about what is happening at St Paul’s, visit www.stpaulstrinity.org or St. Paul’s social media pages. Messages are checked regularly at the church office, at 519-776-7711.
Antioch Christian Ministries Submitted by Karen Chaulk
Antioch Church, located at 455 County Rd. 34 W. Essex, invites you to join them for their Sunday Services at 10am Children’s Ministry Classes are available during service for ages 18 month - Grade 6, beginning at 10:30am. Youth meet Friday’s at 7:30pm (doors open at 7pm). Young Adults meet every other Saturday at 7:30pm. For more information about other meetings and service times, please go to: antiochcanada.ca
Paquette News
As we celebrate the Fifth Sunday of Easter, we praise God for the resurrection of His Son and that we can continue to worship together in-person. St. Stephen’s wants to thank all those who helped with the yard and bake sale and everyone who came. Mark your calendar for June 10 & 11 for the next Redeemer’s sale. If you are interested or would like to know more about Pastoral Care, there is an Essex Deanery Lay Leadership Training session on Saturday, May 14. For info: 519-969-7808. Homecoming Sunday at St. Stephen’s is on June 12 with guest speaker, the daughter of the late Rev. Ed Healey, Elaine Healey-Burnside.
Essex & District Horticultural Society’s hosts a plant sale by Sylene Argent Members of the Essex & District Horticultural Society were overwhelmed with the support received for their annual plant sale on Saturday morning, at the Essex Railway Station. This was the first time the club hosted the event in the past two-years, due to COVID, and the members were pleased to get out and about, sell their plants, and offer gardening tips to anyone with any questions. The plants offered for sale during the show came from the gardens of the
club’s members, or from friends of the club, who donate the greenery for the fundraiser. Any funds raised at the event help the club pay for its operations. Members of the Essex & District Horticultural Society are back to attending their monthly
meetings, which take place at the Essex Retirees’ Social Club. To learn more about the Essex & District Horticultural Society search social media or visit online: gardenontario.org
16 I Business Directory Essex Free Press
I Thursday, May 12, 2022
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Opinion / Business Directory I 17
Essex Free Press
OFA sees protection of farmland as key to long-term food security... Continued from Page 14 sprawl, and only a few decades later, they are finding themselves in the same situation. Several factors outside of a farmer’s control, such as rapidly changing housing markets, planning processes, and political decisions, force them to work without the security and stability necessary to maintain a modern farm business and land base. Many farmers are also seeing development arise in close proximity to their land, which also puts our operation at risk. Farming near urban development creates heavy traffic pressures when moving equipment around or trespass issues when our fields become mistaken for walking trails or dirt bike paths, endangering our livestock or crops. Normal farm practices, like noise, dust, odour, or flies, can also become an issue for nearby residents when urban and rural communities intersect. Privacy also becomes a concern when urban development begins to encroach into agricultural areas resulting in farmers having to work next to residential developments. Although our day-to-day work on
the farm may seem normal to us, spraying against someone’s fence or working in the late hours of the day may become an uncomfortable task when being observed. Another concern we are facing is the unprecedented use of Minister’s Zoning Orders (MZOs) in municipalities that have robust land-use planning systems. MZOs have been used to quickly advance sprawl-induced housing developments, leading to further loss of farmland in Ontario. Since 2019, 2,000 acres of farmland have been lost to MZOs. Once land has been developed and paved over, it is lost forever. OFA believes fixed, permanent urban boundaries will help limit the loss of agricultural land. By redeveloping vacant or underused space, utilizing areas with poor soils or drainage, reinventing existing infrastructure, or building higher density development, we would be able to preserve Ontario’s productive land for food production. Urban intensification can also be utilized to protect agricultural land, by boosting economic
growth, creating new jobs, providing affordable housing options, supporting municipal infrastructure systems, ensuring food security, and contributing to environmental stewardship. We will continue to advocate for the protection of productive farmland and keep this message at the forefront of political party platforms.
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18 I Opinion / ESports Essex Free Press
I Thursday, May 12, 2022
St. Clair College Rocket League team to represent Canada at Commonwealth Esports Championships “DeSoto” Don and his cool car While attending church on Easter Sunday, I saw Don Loewen. We are both in our 80s but I can still recall Don in the late 1950s driving around town in a beautiful gleaming black 1938 DeSoto 4-door sedan with snap-on whitewalls. Under Don’s hood was a flathead 1938 DeSoto internet photo. six with 228 cubic inches cranking out 93 hp at 3600 rpm. His car had 4-wheel hydraulic brakes when Ford still had mechanical brakes. And Don’s DeSoto had independent front suspension many years ahead of Ford. Don’s 119-inch wheelbase guaranteed a comfortable ride, his barrelshaped grille was Art Deco styling at its best, and this car when new had a Windsor factory list price of $1233.00. How do I know so much about Don’s car? When he was driving it around, I was washing cars on Ray Young’s used car lot, my first summer job. One day it rained so I sat inside the little white shack we used as an office (now at Heritage Village). I opened a drawer in the old wooden desk and saw a book with an interesting title: “1942 Used Car Sales Handbook of Features.” I was born in 1942 and just had to open it up. All cars from Auburn to Willys filled its 324 pages, and page 68 was devoted to contact@essexfreepress.com the 1938 DeSoto. No cars on Ray Young’s issuu.com/essexfreepress lot were that old and this book would get thrown out. I took it home and I still have it. I’m always looking for stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca
READ US ONLINE & IN PRINT
16 CENTRE ST., ESSEX
519.776.4268 www.essexfreepress.com
Pictured above from left, Assistant Coach Ajay Singh, Ben “Spoods” Talbot, Josh “Jay” Podruzny, Josh “Comp” Byrne, Bailey “Nitryx” Lamont, Head Coach Mike LePine. (Photo by Chris Funston).
submitted to EFP St. Clair College’s Rocket League team is going International as members will head to Birmingham, England to represent Canada in the first-ever Commonwealth Esports Championships, as part of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, this August. The team qualified for the Commonwealth Esports Championships after finishing as the top Canadian team in The Gaming Stadium’s Rocket League Open event held at the end of April. “The opportunity to be representing Canada at the Commonwealth Games is amazing and is something I never thought I would be able to do. To play for Canada is a dream I’ve always had,” said Josh “Comp” Byrne. “We’ve put in a lot of hard work as a team and individually. I’ve been determined and constantly working towards improvement, for both my life and career, over the past seven years and I’m glad to finally to see it pay off.” Before crossing the Atlantic, the Saints
Rocket League squad will head to Dallas, Texas in June for the first-ever Collegiate Rocket League World Championship, as part of Dreamhack Dallas. St. Clair College is the only Canadian program to qualify for the World Championship, which will feature 10 schools from North America and six from Europe. “I’m proud of my players. Seeing all of our hard work produce results like this is incredible,” said Saints Rocket League Head Coach Mike LePine. “Representing Canada is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for us and we’re going to continue to put the work in, that’s for sure.” “The effort and hard work that the team has put into the game is truly commendable,” added Assistant Coach Ajay Singh. “I am grateful to be coaching such a talented set of individuals. These opportunities only happen once in a lifetime and we are all happy to be experiencing it.”
Thursday, May 12, 2022 I
Sports I 19
Essex Free Press
Greater Amherstburg Tennis League serving an opportunity to try tennis
Following instruction, a participant at the GATL tennis lesson on Friday practices with a tennis ball.
by Garrett Fodor With temperatures rising, residents are jumping at the opportunity to get outside and hit the new tennis courts, located adjacent to the Essex Centre Sports Complex. For many, the warm weather serves as an opportunity and calling
to get outside and become more active. For the Greater Amherstburg Tennis League (GATL), however, the warm weather means the season is approaching. On Friday, the GATL hosted the second of five tennis clinics it scheduled at the new Essex Centre
tennis courts. The learning session featured instructors teaching the basics, while helping people learn and grow within the sport, with like-minded individuals. The clinic was provided at no cost. Those who benefited from the clinic were, however, urged to forward a donation to the Harrow Community Pantry. “Interest has been huge lately. Nationally, we’ve seen Canadians winning tournaments and locally we’ve seen new facilities with many wanting to try the sport or pick it up again,” Bill Seagris said, who helps to oversee the league. “Since COVID, I think a lot of people have wanted to become more active and have been becoming interested in sports like tennis. The clinic serves as an opportunity to learn the sport, but also meet new people within the community and from across the county.” Interest was so good; the clinics were booked solid. While the league is referred to as the GATL, Seagris noted Continued on Page 20
Ismael Oozeer leads the group of participants, demonstrating the proper form for a serve at the GATL’s tennis clinic on Friday at the new courts located adjacent to the Essex Centre Sports Complex. JUST MINUTES AWAY FROM ESSEX!
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20 I Sports Essex Free Press
I Thursday, May 12, 2022
Greater Amherstburg Tennis League serving an opportunity to try tennis... Continued from Page 19
Pictured left: Bill Seagris demonstrated how to throw the ball up in the air for a serve without rotation to help for a better and more accurate serve during the GATL’s tennis clinic on Friday evening.
it is more for historic purposes, with the league operating all over Essex County. Starting in 2003, the GATL has grown from 18 members to over 200 players in their summer league. Players are split up into various divisions based on skill, and have an opportunity to play in singles, doubles, and mixed leagues. Seagris noted the
league is unique. Spanning across the county, he said they will develop the divisions, but scheduling and playing the matches are completely up to the players. He said with how busy everyone is, this format allows everyone to plan mutually convenient times and destinations. “We are looking to promote the sport and physical activity within the community,” Ismael Oozeer said, who leads the clinic and helps Seagris with the league. “People want to learn and try something new. So many people make new friends from the league
and the clinics we host. The feedback has always been great and we love seeing the league and sport grow.” Seagris and Oozeer both thanked everyone for their interest in the league and the clinics they are hosting. Both encourage anyone with questions to reach out. Outside of the league,
the GATL also hosts various tournaments throughout the summer, with the tournaments being open to the public, with membership not being required. Seagris said details for the tournaments will be provided as they are planned and released on www.GATL.ca.
It’s BALL Season!
Submit your local minor baseball articles to us by Monday mornings to get them in for publication! EMAIL: contact@essexfreepress.com Please submit a maximum of 300 words, and you have the option to include a photo. *Please note, we ask all photos are submitted with parental/guardian permission to publish.