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Vol. 140
A LOOK INSIDE Essex Council meeting notes - Monday, September 21 PAGE 3 ______________ Belle River residents got to Stroll the Street PAGE 8 ______________ 2020 Fall Home Improvement PAGES 9 - 13 _______________ Sunflowers 4 Smiles field raises over $12K for Ronald McDonald House PAGE 15 _______________ Mini Steam & Gas Engine Show returns to McGregor PAGE 22 _______________
Thursday, September 24, 2020
Issue No. 37
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Legion Week demonstrates all the local branch does for the community, veterans - Poppy Campaign, Remembrance Day ceremony, and vigil planned -
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by Sylene Argent On Sunday afternoon, residents gathered around the Essex Centre Cenotaph to celebrate the traditional Legion Week kick
off, with the annual wreath laying ceremony. Every year, the Essex Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 201) joins branches from across the nation to celebrate Legion Week, which is designed as a multiple-day awareness campaign that demonstrates all the local organization does to not only support the community, but veterans’ needs as well. In addition to engaging the community,
it is hoped through Legion Week, the local Branch could attract a few new members. Legion Week always kicks off with a wreath laying ceremony. Fun, community engaging activities are then held throughout the week. This year’s festivities include a special trivia matchup tonight (Thursday) and a perch dinner on Friday evening. Saturday’s festivities include the Big Daddy Meat Draw and the always anticipated Kinger’s Crazy Golf event. During the wreath-laying ceremony, Essex Legion President Erroll Caza took a moment to recognize all of the Legion’s comrades and veterans who have passed away over the last year. “We who are left will continue the traditions in comradeship as the start of another Legion Week commences,” he said, adding with the Essex Legion, like many other businesses and organizations that
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2 I Community / News Essex Free Press
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
Legion Week demonstrates all the Essex Council updated on local branch does... Climate Change Adaptation Plan Continued from Front Page
that have recently reopened, there have been many challenges to face, understand, and comprehend. Adjustments also had to be made to adhere to the new norm. “This will, however, not detour us, and indeed we are slowly getting back to holding events such as this.” The Legion’s first indoor event since the start of the pandemic took place Sunday afternoon, after the wreath-laying event. Caza added the Ladies’ Auxiliary is a strong and viable support to the Branch, and its membership is ready and willing to once again support functions in the banquet room. Caza thanked all of the volunteers who ensured the Legion was well maintained while it was closed to the public. “Despite the changes, which have affected our ways, we shall overcome and remain a strong and viable entity,” Caza said,
while addressing those in attendance. He added the local Legion’s continued success is attributed to the organization’s outstanding, and secondto-none, volunteer membership. Caza noted the main focus of the Legion is supporting veterans and their needs. He said the annual poppy campaign and Remembrance Day celebrations will
definitely occur. He urged everyone to keep an eye on the Essex Legion’s bulletins and social media for more info as details are finalized. In addition, the Essex Legion also plans to host a vigil, like the one hosted in 2018, again this year, leading up to Remembrance Day. More details will be released in the coming weeks.
by Adam Gault Essex Municipal Council received a report outlining updates on the development of the Town’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan during a special meeting held on Monday evening. Prepared by the Town’s Climate Change Analyst, Niharika Bandaru, the report outlined how the Climate Change Adaptation Plan has been progressing since beginning development in November 2019. This municipal Climate Action Plan is being designed to address how to best address climate change on the municipal level, allowing for a sustainable community that will benefit residents, businesses, and visitors. Over the course of the last year, the Town has completed several risk prioritization studies through the plan to determine what climate change impacts are identified as priorities for the Town of Essex. These priorities include heat stress to residents, services, and agricultural production, infrastructure damage from flooding, shoreline infrastructure damage, and emergency resilience to extreme weather events. The Town also completed a Climate Impacts Vulnerability Exercise, which sought feedback from residents online as to how they felt various facets of climate change would impact the lifestyles of several fictitious citizens from different
areas of Essex. Currently, the Climate Change Committee is in the process of setting specific goals to help accomplish these objectives, including assigning tools to address potential mitigation actions, as well as the creation of corresponding programs to package risks, action items, and corresponding mitigation tools. “We are expecting to present Council with a draft Climate Change Adaptation Plan in January,” Bandaru explained. “We would receive any comments, questions, clarifications, to edit. Following that, we would expect to present the final Climate Change Adaptation Plan to Council by February.” Some on Council were hoping for more detail surrounding potential action items of the plan, and how their potential implementation would impact the town’s budget, financially. “There’s all this jargon and gobbledygook about what we’re going to do, but no actual details about what we’re going to do,” Councillor Chris Vander Doelen said. “We need to know in advance some of the major efforts that we will be tasked with, so we can think about it for a while.” Essex Council will be presented with a draft Climate Change Adaptation Plan at a meeting this coming January, before having the opportunity to vote on the final version the following month.
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Thursday, September 24, 2020
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Essex Free Press
by Sylene Argent and Adam Gault Council will host hybrid meetings in the future Essex Council voted to move to a hybrid system to host meetings in the future, selecting option three of the possibilities administration presented. This will include continuing to use the Zoom method of hosting meetings online with some staff and Council members in the Council Chambers, with the idea of bringing everyone in gradually. Delegates and viewership would be conducted from home. Special meetings will continue to be held using Zoom. Option three include obtaining 360-degree cameras, integrated mic and speaker that works with Zoom, and active speaker view. The Town Clerk will utilize Zoom for delegates, publish the agenda online, and will stream to YouTube. It is estimated this will cost around $3000. Jack Barron, Manager of Information Technology, noted the goal is to produce productive, live meetings to ensure transparency to the public. Before Council voted, Barron gave an overview of findings and options. He noted he and a handful of fellow staff members brainstormed as a team to come up with ideas. Before the pandemic, he said all staff and Council members convened at the Essex County Civic and Education building to host regular meetings. Council meetings were filmed and were posted online around 48hours after the meeting. This method was minimal work for staff and was easy to manage and maintain, he said. After the pandemic began, meetings were switched online. Zoom, he said, is easy to maintain and manage for staff. The con, he added, is there is no in-person component. He recommended the hybrid form of regular meetings to commence on October 5. Chris Nepszy, CAO, said it has been a long road to solve this issue. It was not a “plug and play” solution, especially when trying to keep meetings live. A few trial tests have been done, which he said the last one was successful. Nepszy said this option could be permanent if Council chooses. Before the pandemic, it cost around $250, plus HST, per meeting to rent the Council Chambers, plus $635, plus HST, for the video streaming. The Town budgets for this, based on 21 meetings per year. Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche does not want to put anyone under more stress or increase their chances of catching COVID, he wanted an option for Councillors who do not want to meet in person yet. Councillor Chris Vander Doelen liked Option 3, and noted the Council Chambers is large, which would work well for social distancing. He doesn’t think the Town can be run virtually forever. The hybrid model could be considered for some wanting to stay home. During the meeting, Nepszy said he would no longer be providing a verbal update about Town business and COVID, but operations would come through regular reports as needed. Councillor Sherry Bondy said she does like the verbal updates, and was sad to see that go.
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- Monday, September 21, 2020 Council approves two new billboards Essex Council has approved the construction of two new fixed billboards on agricultural lands on busy thoroughfares within the municipality. By-law 1946 will allow for the construction of the two billboards by third party company DB Media, with one at County Road 8, near Malden Road, as well as County Road 20, near McCormick Road. These signs will be of a traditional, non-electronic format, and must not exceed 2.5-metres in height, fivemetres in width, with a maximum height of five-metres above the ground. The signs must also advertise a single business, organization, event, or activity within the Town of Essex, or serving the local community. To date, 12 locations have been approved for billboard placement, and 10 such signs have been constructed along county roads and highways within the Town of Essex. Policy for Vulnerable Children Warning Signage passed, with revisions At the July 6 meeting, Council directed Kevin Girard, Director of Infrastructure, to draft a policy regarding vulnerable children and children at play signage. At that meeting, administration had recommended Council authorize and direct the Infrastructure Services Department to no longer install signage indicating vulnerable children or children at play in the Town of Essex. It was also suggested that Council authorizes the removal of the existing signs when the existing signs fall into disrepair or when the child it serves reaches the age of majority or moves from the area. Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche was one of the Council members who was not in favour of administration’s recommendation, as he believed there is a value in having these signs up. At Monday’s meeting, Girard presented the drafted policy and application for initiating the signs. He added the Town will try its best to track signs. In the draft policy, it was recommended applicants complete an application form, provide a physician’s statement identifying the extent of the disability, and concurrence would be needed from the parents to note their understanding that the sign will only remain in place for five-years. In the draft policy, it was recommended the sign be removed when the child reaches the age of 13-years. Continues on Page 5
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4 I Opinion Essex Free Press
Editorial &Opinion Serving Essex and the surrounding communities since 1896.
Published Thursdays as an independent weekly newspaper, owned and operated by The Essex Voice Limited. A London Publishing Corporation Publication LIMITED OFFICE HOURS: Limited staff working from the office. Email or Call with submission inquiries. OUR STAFF Sandy Kennedy / Andrew Beaudoin - Office Jessica Azar - Graphic Design / Social Media / Production Lana Warwick - Graphic Design Greg Belchuk - Advertising Sales Manager Sylene Argent - Editor/News Reporter Shelley Beaudoin - Graphic Design / Production
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Howling at the Moon ••• Comment by Sylene Argent ••• Turning regret into a strength
We all have those things we regret, whether they were bad decisions, terrible outcomes to a tough situation, or even things we did not take the risk to try. Most of us are weighed down, in the aftermath of a tough scenario, with the “would have, should have, could have” syndrome. Out of shame, some of us try to bury those regrets, while others perhaps have a hard time keeping those past mistakes from interrupting the present. And, we all know those people who keep making the same mistakes, over-and-over, because they just can’t seem to learn their lesson. I have been thinking about regrets lately, and though there are certainly those things I wish I could go back and change, I have been thinking about what I learned because of those happenstances. I am sure I am better off to have lived through those moments that were less than great, than to not have lived through those moments of stress at all. There are certainly things I do not look back upon fondly from my
past, whether they are things I did or happened to me. But, I don’t think I regret them, now. Because, those instances taught me things. They either showed me what to do, or what not to do in a situation. They also helped me look at my weaknesses, and work at them, so they may not be soft areas anymore. You often hear, and perhaps often think or say, life is not fair. Well, it certainly is not. But, I think the purpose of life is to not be fair. If life was fair, none of us would challenge ourselves. And, because of that simplification, I doubt there would be a whole lot of passion behind our actions. We would put in the effort to get the desired outcome, and that would be it. If things were fair or easy, we would not know the stuff we are truly made of, at the core of our being. We would not build up our strength while enduring instances of duress, we would not know just how kind we truly are in our nature, if we never had to suffer, yet felt the need to help someone else who is in a tougher spot
OPINION & COMMENT The opinions expressed on these pages are those of their original authors and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Essex Free Press, its Editor or Publisher.
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I Thursday, September 24, 2020
Commentary - OFA
than we are ourselves. And, when our situation improves, because we have developed incredible work ethic to improve our own circumstances, we could never know the feeling of pride for doing so. I have learned that the best thing we can all do is keep focus on our own lives. Don’t worry about how easy life appears to be for others. Don’t compare notes of your own successes or failures to someone else’s. We all have a unique journey, and nothing is linear. We don’t level-up at our birthdays like we do when we play video games. We don’t get a token for making it through another year, and then get a new task ahead and another big boss to beat. Life can be tough. No one can argue that. It is up to us on how we will maneuver through those difficulties and what we bring with us into the future that can help us do it better next time.
Survey shows Great Lakes water quality top of mind with Ontario farmers by Mark Reusser, Vice President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
In its second annual survey of farmers in southwestern Ontario, the Thames River Phosphorus Reduction Collaborative (PRC) set out to gauge awareness of the organization’s efforts to reduce agricultural phosphorus losses and improve water quality in the Great Lakes. The survey was conducted in early 2020 by farmers in the Thames River basin and surrounding areas. Survey results showed the awareness level is high among farmers, with 77% indicating they were familiar with the PRC’s research and water quality projects in the Lake Erie area. Lake Erie provides an important source of water for drinking, crop irrigation, fishing, recreation, and tourism. The PRC is focused on developing and testing practical technologies to help farmers reduce phosphorus runoff from their fields and address phosphorus entering waterways from local municipalities. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is a key partner in the Collaborative supporting the PRC to manage water quality trials in southwestern Ontario Thames River waterway to find effective tools that could be deployed by farmers to improve waters leaving their farms. The PRC is managing seven test sites again this year, testing a variety of products and materials that could allow for the recovery of phosphorus in drainage systems and reduce phosphorus loses from fields. The results of these testing sites could be used in developing an overall strategy for managing surface and tile waters leaving our farms, and in turn, help prevent toxic algal blooms in the western basin of Lake Erie and surrounding waterbodies. Many of these test sites are located on Ontario farms and operate on one-year cycles. Sorbent materials are collected each spring for analysis. Earlier this month, the PRC hosted a webinar to update farmers and industry stakeholders on
best practices and lessons learned from the 2019-2020 test sites. These on-the-ground projects were aimed at reducing phosphorus from municipal and agricultural water systems. Presentations of the day are also posted to the PRC website. Checking in with farmers about this important issue and raising awareness of the Thames River PRC was a focus of the 2020 survey. Most nutrients are lost from fields in the winter and spring, and 90% of survey participants answered that they were aware of the seasonality in runoff and nutrient loss. More than three quarters also indicated they understood that it didn’t matter how far away from the Thames River they were located, agricultural runoff from their fields could enter the watershed. Survey respondents also demonstrated an understanding of the correlation between phosphorus loss from field runoff and algae blooms in Lake Erie. Farms are not the only source of excess phosphorus in our waterways, and survey participants showed they understood cities and municipalities to be contributors as well. The Thames River PRC was encouraged to see more than 80% of respondents understood PRC’s role and ongoing work to reduce phosphorus and focus on water quality in the Great Lakes. Survey responses noted their work with farmers and municipalities to develop and test technologies to intercept and extract phosphorus from agricultural runoff and to give farmers, governments, and industry a better understanding of the practicality of these new technologies. The PRC is encouraged by farmer survey results, but work continues to monitor test sites, research new technologies, educate and raise awareness about nutrient and phosphorus loss into Ontario’s waterways. To learn more about the Thames River PRC and their ongoing projects, please visit www.thamesriverprc.com.
Thursday, September 24, 2020
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Essex Free Press
Essex Council meeting notes... Parents will also have to acknowledge in writing their understanding that the sign is no guarantee of their child’s safety and that they remain responsible for the monitoring of their child’s activities. Parents will also have to notify the Town in a timely manner of any positive changes in their child’s impairments. Meloche said there will be a number of residents happy to see this report. Councillor Sherry Bondy said she understands the needs of the doctor’s note to install the sign, but really didn’t think the Town needs to know details of the extent of any disability. She said that made her a little uncomfortable. She said she thinks the age of 13 is a little low. Once, they turn 14, vulnerabilities do not magically go away. She wanted to see the age raised to 16. Councillor Chris Vander Doelen feared the program could be abused if specifics are not required. Verbeek agreed with Bondy there are some that need these signs, and there is not a magic age when they are no longer needed. She believes an age limit should not be included as signs will be addressed every five-years, anyway. Councillor Steve Bjorkman made a motion to receive the report and adopt the policy, with the amendment that the doctor’s note would only be to confirm the disability and the nature of the sign to be accommodated. The stated age was also moved to the age of 16, subject to extensions when required, with discretion given to Director of Infrastructure. Motion carried. Part of this noted that “Children at Play’ signs will only be installed within community areas, such as parks, schools, and other institutions that have a main purpose to provide services for children, as recommended in the Ontario Traffic Manual. Councillor Bondy believes some residents will be sad they can not get “Caution Children at Play signs,” but she agrees with the recommendation. Fire Station #2 project awarded, budget increased Council awarded the Request for Tender for Construction of the new Fire Station 2 to Bear Construction and Engineering Inc., in the total amount of $3,003,446.40, and also approved a total budget amount of $3,399,031. Bear Construction submitted the lowest bid on the project. The project was previously approved Capital Budget amount of $2,689,849, and the remaining unfunded balance of $709,182 will be funded through long term debt. Fire Chief Rick Arnel said a bunch of items were removed to try and get the new fire hall into budget. For the new site, Essex Fire & Rescue was required to grade and build a swale and raise the property over 1.3m as it has to be accessible in case of a disaster, across the whole three acres. “We want to make sure we can get in there if there is a one in one-hundred-year storm,” he said. Prevention of erosion had to be considered and roof anchors needed to be added. Wood, asphalt, and steel prices have gone up. All these factors contributed to the higher cost. He said it will take seven months to complete the building. Councillor Chris Vander Doelen hopes the project can get the fill at no cost. Arnel said once the contract is signed, soil has to be tested and they will use free fill if they can find some.
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In the Report to Council, it notes in 2016, Stephenson Engineering Ltd. completed a facility review and identified that the existing Fire Station #2 in Gesto, with its current size and layout, does not meet the current needs of fire and rescue services for a variety of reasons. The following year, Town Council approved the purchase of property at the intersection of County Road 15 and North Malden for the new fire hall, as another report highlighted a better location was needed to improve response times. Additional funding approved for bridge rehabilitation Council awarded municipal engineering services to RC Spencer Associates Inc. for bridge rehabilitation projects at several sites within the Town of Essex in the amount of $50,371.20. Since this is in excess of $10,000 over the approved 2020 Capital Budget of $40,000 for Various Bridges and Culverts from the Town’s Asset Management Lifecycle Reserve, authorization from Council was required for the approval. This will have site rehabilitation at three structures within the Town of Essex, including a concrete rigid frame structure at South Malden Road and Mole Side Road, a concrete culvert at Walker Side Road and North Malden Road, and bridge rehabilitation at the 3rd Concession Road. Site zoning amendment approved in Colchester Council approved a site zoning amendment on Poplar Bluff Drive in Colchester, allowing for the construction of a second dwelling unit on an existing property on the street. A site zoning amendment is required for the project, as within current R1.1 residential zoning, an accessory building is only permitted if limited to one storey with a total gross floor area of 750 square feet, and a second dwelling unit only being permitted within an existing single attached dwelling. This approval comes after a special meeting on the matter on September 8, where the discussion of allowing for similar zoning amendments in the future would go a long way in the creation of additional affordable housing
options for individuals and families across Essex. With this approval, the construction of a 1120 square foot accessory building with a secondary storey will be permitted to accommodate the property’s existing single dwelling unit. State of broadband in Essex Essex Council received a report regarding the state of current broadband internet service across the municipality, and the challenges in developing new internet infrastructure across Essex. In the presentation, it was noted that Essex’s large geographic area and various population centres and densities make it difficult to provide consistent internet service for all residents of the municipality. While most residents in the town’s urban centres of Essex, Harrow, Colchester, and McGregor have access to broadband internet in the range of 25 to 50 megabits a second, residents in the large rural section of the municipality have much less reliable internet speeds, sometime in the range of
Continued on Page 6
Pet Of The Week: Spaghetti Spaghetti came here as a stray. He is a very laid back feline, who loves to be loved. He’s always purring and there isn’t a second where he doesn’t want to be pet (P.S his sweet spot is scratches on his neck). Spaghetti doesn’t care too much about toys and during the day you’ll most likely find him lounging in bed. He is not a lap cat, but certainly loves to be around you and sit as close to you as possible to wait to be pet. Meet Spaghetti today! Only a limited number of animals will be made available at a time. They will be posted on the adoptable animal pages at www.windsorhumane. org. To apply to adopt an available animal, please click the “Interested in this Animal? Click here” link. All applications will be reviewed. For more info, contact us today. This pet comes with 6 weeks of pre-paid pet health insurance. For more information, visit www.ospcainsurance.ca or call 1-866-600-2445. The Windsor-Essex County Humane Society shelter is at 1375 Provincial Rd., Windsor. Ph: 519-966-5751.
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Essex Council meeting notes... 1 to 5 megabits a second. “The issue really lies with outside of the urban centres, those rural pockets, where there can be a distance of more than one kilometre between neighbours,” Essex’s Economic Development Officer, Nelson Silveira, explained. To assist in bridging this urban to rural digital divide, current internet infrastructure in the Town of Essex would require upgrades with new infrastructure being required to be built in some areas. This would require time and financial resources and a collective effort from all levels of government, the internet industry, stakeholders, and partners. In July, Administration met with several local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to gather more information on these challenges, and how to address some technical solutions to address internet issues with more rural residents. These included the municipality leveraging existing assets (municipal property, roads, and facilities) to support the deployment of broadband infrastructure by ISPs in these rural areas, as well as the town and ISPs making a more concentrated effort to improve connectivity in underserved areas, as opposed to further investment in areas that are already served and meet the CRTC target. Essex will continue to work with local ISPs on potential broadband expansion projects, as well as seek additional funding from the provincial and federal government in seeking cost-effective internet access for residents. Winter salt awarded to K + S Windsor Salt Council awarded a request for tender to K + S Windsor Salt Limited in the amount of $424,850 to provide salt for the 2020-21 winter season. This is based on an estimated quantity of 5000 tonnes of salt required for winter road de-icing. In general, winter control budgets are based on a three to five year rolling average in attempts to predict upcoming expenditures. The 2020 operating budget for Winter Control Materials is $260,000. Due to the uncontrollable nature of winter storm events, in any given year, the Town may fall below or exceed this average, which will be funded from contingency reserves earmarked for Winter Control. NoM: Councillors feel five year roads plan would not work At the September 8 meeting, Councillor Bondy put forward a Notice of Motion that Council give direction to Administration to prepare a five-year roads plan for Council discussions, public transparency, and the budgeting process. It was brought forward for discussion on Monday evening. As the leadership of Town, Council needs to follow through with that she said. Roads are a big deal, and
Continued from Page 5
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
Councillor Steve Bjorkman said Emancipation Day is recognized by the Country and Province of Ontario, and the first Emancipation Day parade was held in Windsor. He was in favour of the motion. Motion carried. Town to explore school bus cameras Brought forward as a Notice of Motion by Councillor Kim Verbeek during the September 8 meeting, town Administration will now explore the feasibility of installing cameras on select school bus stop signs, in an attempt to penalize drivers who pass the buses while their stop arms are engaged. “I can see that there’s a lot of pieces to be put in place,” Verbeek said. “However, there’ll be long term benefits if we do look at this. Every step we take to lessen any risk to our children, is a good step.” This comes as the Province will indroduce a new regulatory framework, which sets out evidentiary rules to govern school bus stop arm camera programs. Municipalities who choose to implement school bus stop arm camera programs will be able to use evidence from camera systems in court without requiring a witness to introduce that evidence. Verbeek explained one municipality that started this project with just two bus cameras, paid for the project entirely with fines collected from their use. Mayor Larry Snively agreed that the cameras should be installed on the buses for safety, but that the potential costs shouldn’t be on the Town. “If they want cameras on their buses, I believe that’s the way it should be,” Snively said. “I do agree on safety, but I don’t think it should be downloaded to our municipality.” Council voted to direct Administration to undertake a feasibility study on the matter, and return with the findings to Council at a later date. NoM: to be discussed at the October 5 meeting • Councillor Bjorkman will ask Council to consider directing administration to review the Town’s noise bylaw, specifically to the use of bird bangers in agricultural zoned areas, and to use Best Management Practices outlined in the Farming and Food Production Protection Act (FFPPA)1998 for reference. • Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche will ask Council to consider directing administration to investigate the feasibility of potentially partnering with Amherstburg with the respect of operations and ownership of the McGregor sanitary system. Council tabled decision to pass sign bylaw When passing bylaws, a majority Council vote tabled the decision on By-law Number 1950, being a By-law regulating the erection of signs in the Town of Essex. This issue was spoken about extensively at the previous Council meeting as it relates to CREW winery and its sign.
residents want clarity. Kevin Girard, Director of Infrastructure, said many factors come into play when scheduling road work and other infrastructure in the ground. The Town has to work with the County to ensure there are no conflicts, and ensure each Ward in the municipality is awarded road work. Traffic and vehicle use are also taken into consideration. There is not a lot of room for flexibility when financing roads. The roads budget is quite limited. He said a road’s plan demands a lot of Council. One hiccup can change the entire plan, he added. Girard said what really needs to be done is focus on the priority, which is done on a daily basis. Administration considers things like constructions and rehabilitation to protect assets. When Council and the public receive a road plan, because there is not much flexibility, it gives the perception a road may be done, but it may get bump several years into the future. Councillor Joe Garon said maybe a five-year plan could be difficult to achieve, but if Council has knowledge of roads, which ones need infrastructure or have different needs, it would be beneficial. When talking to residents, Council may not know the road needs. He said he would definitely like to have an idea of what roads need to be done and what their needs are. Councillor Morley Bowman said the plan sounds great in theory, but it does not work. He said Fairview Avenue started eight-years later than it was suppose to, for example. Council takes flack from residents when those projects do not get done. Funding from upper tiers of government also can dictate which roads are selected. Councillor Steve Bjorkman said there use to be maps of roads in Essex, and the colour code offered a good descriptor to allow Council to explain to residents why certain roads were done over another. He asked if that map was still at Town Hall and if it has been updated. Girard said he has not seen the map he is talking about, he said it does provide Council some kind of idea of conditions and it can be located down at the municipal building. Councillor Chris Vander Doelen added future Councils can not be bound to a plan created by past Councils. He does not think a roads plan should be tried. He said the current wish list works perfectly. Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche said there are pros and cons to having a plan. Budgets give a general direction as to where you are going. He tries to push to get gravel roads tar and chipped. He said at one point he wanted a ten-year plan to tar and ship those gravel roads. Though that timeframe has passed, there are still roads that need to be done. And, there were residents who Continued on Page 7 were upset because their road had not been treated as planned. Bondy wanted to know if in 2021 it would be a lump summary for roads in the budget. Waiver of late fees and NSF charges ends September 30 It was noted that If you own property in the Town of Essex you received your final tax notice in imminent roads would mid-July. The final installment of property tax payments is due October 30. be included, but moving To ease the financial pressure caused by COVID-19, the Town has waived late beyond that, it becomes a payment charges (including penalties and interest) and non-sufficient fund charges lump sum. The details of on all property tax accounts through the period ending September 30, 2020. the lump sum, there is one Please note all pre-authorized payment withdrawals will continue to be taken on for surface treatment, there the scheduled dates unless otherwise cancelled by the property owner. is lump sum for shave and Pay Your Property Tax Bills Online pave. Happy with having the Residents can now check their Property Tax account and pay their bills online using Virtual City Hall system. Register online at www.essex.ca/VCH discussion, Bondy removed To activate your account, you will need your Tax Roll and Account Numbers, both her Notice of Motion. of which are on your tax notice. Please note, Virtual City Hall fees have also been NoM: Emancipation Day waived until December 31, 2020. in Essex At the September 8 Changes to Credit Card Payments Council meting, Councillor Credit card payments will no longer be accepted in person or over the phone. Fees Sherry Bondy put forward associated with the processing of credit card payments represent a significant annual a Notice of Motion to cost to the Town. ask Council to consider Credit card payments can still be made using Virtual City Hall. Learn more about recognizing August 1 as alternative payment options by calling 519-776-7336 ext 3050 or visiting: Emancipation Day in the Town of Essex.
Property Tax Notice
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Thursday, September 24, 2020
I
News I 7
Essex Free Press
Ontario announces rural funding efforts in Leamington
Reopening schools safely matters to everyone Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ernie Hardeman, is joined by Mayor of Leamington, Hilda MacDonald, and Chatham-Kent-Leamington MPP, Rick Nicholls, as he announces funding under the Rural Economic Development program
by Adam Gault Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ernie Hardeman, announced funding for the Municipality of Leamington as part of the Rural Economic Development (RED) program during a stop in the tomato capital on Friday, September 18. Joined by ChathamKent-Leamington MPP Rick Nicholls and Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald, Hardeman announced Leamington would be eligible for up to $250,000 for a series of capital projects, based on urban beautification, such as murals, decorative lighting, and public art. “This funding will help strengthen Leamington’s uptown as an arts and cultural hub and will help draw greater tourism to the area,” Hardeman explained. “This project is one of 65 projects and organizations from across the province that are receiving more than $3 million in cost-shared funding through the latest intake of the program. This announcement
was made from the newly renovated Shotton Parkette on Talbot Street West, which was expanded as part of the RED program, that will also implement additional new and accessible streetscaping to develop a more inviting downtown, as well as more waterfront development to expand and revitalize local trails. “The John Street Centennial Park and Shotton Parkette upgrades are just two projects in a series of initiatives we are undertaking to reinvent public spaces and attract renewed interest and investment into Leamington’s uptown core,” Mayor MacDonald said. “We are very thankful to the Province of Ontario for support through the RED program to help complete these key infrastructure projects. Under this program, the Town of Essex has previously been approved for up to $242,400 to complete similar streetscaping programs and seasonal decorative lighting in Essex Centre and Harrow.
Essex Council notes... Councillor Sherry Bondy had concerns with the sign being illuminated for the duration of events, which could be up to 11pm at the winery. The By-law, she said, indicated the sign could be left on during business hours. She wondered if Council would consider amending that. She also had concerns with controlling the brightness of the sign. Lori Chadwick, Director of Development, said it is hard to measure brightness, but, through the By-law, she tried to limit the impact to surrounding properties by not allowing the sign to be operated during the middle of the night. Bondy also questioned how the sign height was being measured. As the Bylaw applies to everyone with a sign in the municipality, Councillor Joe Garon wondered if it was measured starting from
Along with this announcement, Minister Hardeman also announced the opening of a new intake under the RED program, targeted at notfor-profit organizations, with a mandate of regional economic development. “It focuses on diversifying regional economies and improving the competitiveness of rural businesses in communities like Leamington and others across the province,” Hardeman said. “Investments through the RED program are helping to shape a strong future for our rural and Indigenous communities, by helping to boost the economic growth and ensuring they are great places to live and do business.” Applications for the new RED intake are being accepted until October 9. To meet eligibility, projects must benefit rural Ontario, have tangible outcomes, and reach beyond one county, region, or district. Applications and additional information can be found at ontario.ca
That’s why the government of Ontario has worked with health officials, school boards and educators to develop a comprehensive plan to keep kids and staff safe. • Physical distancing measures will be implemented such as desk separation, signs, floor markings and one-way hallways. • Face coverings will be required for staff and students in Grades 4-12. • Hand hygiene will be enabled with hand sanitizer and hand washing. • More nurses will be in schools. • School cleaning will be enhanced.
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the grade or if a berm could be used to prop it up higher. Garon said he had concerns with the By-law as it was written because some of the language did not seem to jive with what he believed the intent of the motion was at the previous Council meeting. One of the concerns he has was he thought the intent was to allow one line of illuminated letters, but the By-law seemed to allow more. CREW owner Bernard Gorski was allowed to speak at the meeting and noted he planned to use up to two or three lines. He said he has a way to control the illumination, and found the brightness “offensive” when it was at full power. He does not want to offend neighbours with the brightness. Tabling the By-law will allow for the wording to be looked at again.
Visit ontario.ca/ReopeningSchools Paid for by the Government of Ontario
8 I Community Essex Free Press
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
Belle River residents got to Stroll the Street
Breanna, Abby, and Griffin hosted a booth to promote and fundraise for Skate Lakeshore at the Belle River on the Lake BIA Stroll the Street event last Friday evening.
by Sylene Argent The COVID-19 pandemic may have prevented the Belle River on the Lake BIA from hosting its annual Stroll the Street events earlier this spring, but the Business Improvement Association was able to shutdown eight blocks of Notre Dame Street to vehicular traffic last Friday evening to host a fall-themed, outdoor shopping extravaganza for the whole community to enjoy. The fall-themed Stroll the Street event was hosted as a way to get residents outdoors to shop and enjoy all the Belle
River business area has to offer, while having fun. Janel Gagnier, Belle River on the Lake BIA’s Special Events Coordinator, was pleased with the event turn out. The event attracted the maximum number of vendors the BIA was allowed to host. She was pleased to solicit the help of around 50 volunteers to ensure the event ran as smoothly as possible. Some of those volunteers were high school students, who were able to earn a few of the community service hours that they are required to obtain in order to
The Klokman family enjoys exploring the Stroll the Street event.
graduate. “It was good. A little bit windy, a little cool, but we had a good turnout,” she said, noting there was a steady flow of foot traffic onsite. Eventgoers were encouraged to wear masks at the event and were to follow directional foot traffic signage, to help prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. In addition, along the event route, the Belle River on the Lake BIA offered six sanitizer stations, equipped with free masks and hand sanitizer for those in need.
Along Notre Dame Street, three acoustic acts performed an array of tunes for the outdoor shoppers to enjoy, while they searched for unique items and gift ideas. In addition, the local youth, classic rock band, “Leave Those Kids Alone,” offered their sound to the event. Typically, the Belle River on the Lake BIA hosts a Stroll in the Streets towards the end of November, as a kick off for holiday shopping. It is not known, however, if this tradition will get the greenlight, which will be dependent on governmental protocols at that time.
Volunteers Delaney, Cassidy, and Elizabeth show off a fall-themed display set up during the Stroll the Streets event hosted in Belle River last Friday evening.
Thursday, September 24, 2020
I
2020 Fall Home Improvement I 9
Essex Free Press
Get ahead of chimney repair this season
Woodburning fireplaces or fuel stoves can add warmth and ambiance to a home. These appliances are particularly coveted in
the cooler months when people spend more time indoors. Maintenance is necessary in order for fireplaces and stoves to function safely, and that
upkeep must include paying close attention to the functionality of the chimney. Chimneys are designed to last for decades. Cracks and spalling in brick chimneys are common concerns that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Chimney maintenance involves more than cleaning the flue. Rather than running the risk of costly repairs, which can cost several thousand dollars, homeowners can take some simple steps to keep their chimneys in tip-top shape. Certain components of chimney maintenance are do-ityourself tasks, while others may be better left to the professionals. • Start from the inside and ensure that dampers are working properly. When using fireplaces and other appliances, dampers need to be open to allow smoke to vent outside; otherwise, smoke will be trapped in the
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home and could lead to carbon monoxide buildup. Dampers need to be fixed or replaced if they are not operational. Replacement fireplace dampers should be snug and not have any gaps, states Vertical Chimney Care. • Conduct a visual inspection of the chimney to check for any cracks or spalling. Spalling is the wearing away of masonry due to water, weather and time. If enough of the material erodes, that erosion can adversely affect the structural integrity of the chimney. Some repairs can be made by patching up cracks or replacing missing bricks. Chimney tuckpointing is the process of repairing
mortar. • Think about waterproofing the chimney to prevent damage. A water sealant applied to the outside of the chimney can prevent moisture from breaking down the masonry. • Inspect and replace the chimney cap if it is worn out. A chimney cap is a contraption that sits atop the chimney to allow the smoke to vent while also preventing critters and water from going inside the flue, helping to extend the flue life. The chimney cap attaches to the flue liner, so outside dimensions should be taken to ensure the cap is the right size for the chimney.
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• Have the chimney swept. Sweeping helps remove the soot and debris that clings to the inside of the flue, known as creosote. The amount of time the fireplace is used will determine how often the chimney must be cleaned. Generally speaking, the chimney liner needs to be cleaned if it has 1/8-inch or more of soot. Regular inspection and maintenance can help keep a chimney working safely for decades. For those who do not like working at such an elevation, leave exterior chimney repair to a certified professional.
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10 I 2020 Fall Home Improvement Essex Free Press
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
Potential indicators of roof trouble With regard to home repairs, homeowners may be able to delay some projects until the weather permits or they find room in their budgets. But other areas, including the roof,
may demand immediate action. Few homeowners give the roofs of their homes much thought until a problem arises. But learning to recognize
potential indicators of roof trouble can help homeowners prevent potentially drastic situations down the road. • Light: Homeowners with attics in their homes
can inspect the ceilings inside the attic for signs of holes or leaks. Light peering through the top of the house indicates a hole or leak, as does stains or streaks on the ceiling. • Worn shingles: Shingles should lie flat against the roof, so any that appear to be buckling or turning up are damaged and in need of repair. A single damaged shingle does not require a full roof replacement, but inspect all the shingles nonetheless. Another indicator of shingle problems can be found when cleaning downspouts or gutters. If the gutters and downspouts contain lots of shingle granules, the roof may soon need to be replaced. • Moss: Moss on a rooftop may give a home character, but that added character is costly. Shady areas of a roof can be susceptible to the growth of moss and fungi because moisture can be trapped in such areas. If possible, remove moss or fungi from a roof with a stiff brush or hire a professional to do the job instead. Moss may come
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back even after brushing it off, so homeowners should keep an eye on areas of their roofs that get little sunlight. In addition, trapped moisture can be very harmful to a roof, so it may be wise to exercise caution and have roofs with mold or fungi growths inspected. • Age: Another indicator of roof trouble may be the age of the roof. Even if there are no visible signs of damage, homeowners whose roofs have some years
under their belt may want to consider replacing them. Asphalt shingle roofs typically have life expectancies of 20 to 25 years, while roofs installed over existing layers of shingles may need to be replaced after 20 years. Recognizing minor roof damage before it escalates into a larger problem can save homeowners substantial amounts of money.
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Thursday, September 24, 2020
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2020 Fall Home Improvement I 11
Essex Free Press
What to do to prepare your garden for winter
Gardens provide an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In fact, many gardening enthusiasts typically cannot wait for the spring thaw so they can spend the next several
months tending to their plants under the warm sun. But a gardener’s work is never truly done, and the work to make gardens stun in the spring actually begins during the preceding fall. Preparing gardens for
winter is an important step that can help homeowners ensure their gardens return to full strength in the spring. The tasks necessary to prepare gardens for winter may depend on what homeowners are planting, but the following are some general maintenance suggestions that can keep gardens safe this winter. • Remove weeds and debris. Weeds and debris are unsightly and detrimental to plant life in spring, but they also can be harmful in the winter. Weeds and debris left to linger in gardens through the winter provide overwintering spots for insects and can contribute to disease. So it’s imperative that weeds and debris are removed before the ground hardens in winter. Don’t wait until the ground hardens, as that can make it hard to remove the
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roots of weeds, adversely affecting the garden as a result. • Prepare the soil. The Farmer’s Almanac advises homeowners to gently till the soil in their gardens so they can expose any insects before they settle in for the winter. Once garden soil is exposed, add a layer of compost, leaves, aged manure, and, if necessary, lime, gently tilling it into the soil. According to the North Carolina Cooperative Extension, the only accurate way to determine if lawn or garden soil needs lime is to test it. Lime makes soil less acidic and reduces soil pH. Low soil pH makes it hard for certain plants to grow, but acidic soil is ideal when growing blueberries. Test the soil for lime and amend it depending on what you hope to grow in the spring so it’s ready to thrive when winter ends. • Remove dead or diseased plants. Dead or diseased plants should not be left in the garden through the winter. These plants can attract insects and are vulnerable to disease, which can make it hard for the garden to thrive in the spring.
• Protect fruit trees. If you have fruit trees, install mouse guards around the base to prevent mice and voles from killing the trees over the winter. If left to their own devices over the winter, mice and voles may eat the bark of fruit trees, killing the trees as a result. The Farmer’s
Almanac notes that mouse guards made of fine mesh hardware cloth can effectively protect fruit trees from hungry mice and voles over the winter. A gardener’s work is never done, and the work to create beautiful spring gardens begins in the fall.
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The value of mulched leaves Homeowners who don’t look forward to dusting off their rakes each fall might be happy to learn that mulching fallen leaves with a mower may be a healthier and less labor intensive way to confront a yard covered in leaves. For 20 years, turfgrass specialists at Michigan State University studied how lawns reacted to having ground up leaves left on the lawn and the results were overwhelmingly positive. Researchers found that tiny pieces of mulched leaves eventually sifted down through the turf and provided the lawn with essential nutrients. Mulched leaves also served to control future weed growth by covering up bare spots between turf plants. Such spots typically provided openings for weed seeds to germinate and ultimately infect lawns. In fact, researchers found that mulching leaves for just three years could produce a nearly 100 percent decrease in dandelion and crabgrass growth. Homeowners with mulching mowers that also have bags can even help their gardens by alternating using the mower with and without the bag on once leaves begin to fall. When mowing with the bag on, mulched leaves can then be used as mulch in landscape beds and vegetable gardens. metrocreativeconnection.com
12 I 2020 Fall Home Improvement Essex Free Press
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
Simple ways to improve a kitchen pantry People have been spending more time at home in 2020 than in years past, and certain projects around the house have become a priority. One home improvement idea that serves the double benefit of creating organization and making cooking at home more efficient is to reimagine the kitchen pantry. A pantry is a room or closet where food, beverages and linens or dishes are stored. Pantries can be highly useful spaces that provide ancillary storage in kitchens. Many modern homes are equipped with pantries, but older homes may require some modification to create more useful pantries. Whether starting from scratch or modifying an existing pantry, these tips can help projects go more smoothly. • Maximize vertical storage. Utilizing vertical areas can help increase storage capacity. Build in extra nooks by investing in undershelf storage baskets. These baskets can instantly create designated areas for different types of ingredients. Homeowners also can look for ways to use the inside of cabinet doors or add extra shelves on walls or in eaves.
• Consider your needs. Figure out which items you would like to store in the pantry and then shop for corresponding storage systems. For example, storage solutions may feature wine bottle racks, baskets for potatoes and other produce, shelving for small appliances, and even pull out racks for baking pans or cutting boards. • Use clear storage. Put ingredients in clear, airtight containers of similar dimensions so that you can easily find items you need. Transfer bulky items, like cereals and baking supplies, to storage containers for uniformity. • Store bulk items elsewhere. Bulk shopping can be cost-efficient, but bulk items can quickly eat up real estate in the pantry. Designate another area for non-perishable bulk products, like paper goods or canned items, such as in a garage or utility room. • Pull out drawers are convenient. Pull-out drawers can reduce the need to seek and reach for items. These drawers conveniently roll out so items in the back can be accessed without disturbing foods in the front. Drawers can be custom built for any pantry space. • Make it accessible. Think about who will be taking
items from the pantry. Put children’s snacks on the bottom pantry shelf where they can reach them, and then organize other shelves for adults in the home. A pantry remodel can add valuable storage space and make one of the busiest rooms in the house operate more efficiently.
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Home buying during the COVID-19 outbreak
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Homeowners know that the process of buying a home can be both exciting and nervewracking. The anxiety associated with buying a home has hit new heights during the outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19. Historically low interest rates and limited inventory has made 2020 an especially
unique time to buy a home. It’s also a competitive and potentially expensive time to buy a home. While the economic consequences of COVID-19 have been severe, the Federal National Mortgage Association, also known as Fannie Mae, forecasted a significant increase in median home prices in March 2020. City dwellers have scrambled to buy homes outside of cities, where social distancing is more difficult and the risk of getting COVID-19 appears greater than it is in suburban or rural settings. That’s led to a lot of competition among prospective buyers. Prospective home buyers willing to enter the hectic fray and shop for a home during the
COVID-19 outbreak may benefit from knowing what to expect as they search for their next home. • Get ready for virtual tours. Buyers might once have scoffed at the notion of buying a home they’d only seen in videos, but virtual tours have become the new normal in the wake of the pandemic. An April survey from the National Association of Realtors® found that home tours had declined sharply. While 98 percent of realtors reported taking clients on home tours as recently as February, that number had declined to 63 percent by April. As many regions pause their reopening plans, prospective home buyers should ready themselves
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Thursday, September 24, 2020
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2020 Fall Home Improvement I 13
Essex Free Press
Save time and money with material alternatives Home renovations are big business. The home renovation resource Home Advisor states that the national average cost of remodeling multiple rooms in a home was $41,784 in 2018. While homeowners cannot change the size of rooms to save money, they can manipulate the materials used to keep expenses down. Many products on the market today are designed to replicate the look of more costly materials without the higher price tags. User-friendly DIY products
also can help corral costs by cutting down on labor expenses. Resilient flooring - Resilient flooring is manufacturered to mimic the look of hardwood, tile, stone, and other materials. According to Armstrong Flooring, specialized manufacturing processes and coatings create a product that resists stains, dents, moisture, and scratches. Most resilient products are made up of several layers to create stability and absorb sound. These products tend to be less
Home buying during the COVID-19 outbreak...
for virtual tours as opposed to inperson home tours. • Expect limited inventory. While home prices are up, many people are holding onto their homes. The NAR reports that total housing
inventory at the end of May 2020 was down nearly 19 percent from the end of May 2019. Buyers will have less inventory to choose from, so those intent on buying may need to prioritize what they need in a home and focus on finding properties that can fulfill those needs. • Expect to move quickly. Realtors have seen homes sell within days of being listed, and that has put pressure on buyers to move quickly. It also highlights the importance of finding a home inspector before your search begins as well as a lender who can handle quick closings. Ask around for recommendations, but make sure you have these two
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important professionals lined up before beginning your search. Doing so will give you a better chance of buying in an unusual time. • Make the best down payment you can afford. A high down payment makes buyers look better no matter the state of the economy. An offer with a high down payment looks like a stronger offer, and that can make the difference between winning and losing a potential bidding war. Buying a home during the COVID-19 outbreak presents some unique challenges to prospective buyers. metrocreativeconnection.com
expensive than the materials they replicate. Laminate countertops - Much like resilient flooring, laminate countertops are inexpensive, low-maintenance and durable alternatives to stone and solid-surface countertops. They come in many different styles that can look like granite or marble. Homeowners also can consider solid surface materials, tile, concrete, and wood block when looking for cost-efficient countertop materials. Shower kits - Bathroom renovations can increase the overall value of a home. But some homeowners do not have the time or money to do a complete bathroom remodel. Replacing an old vanity with a newer one and replacing an outdated tub/shower combination can improve the functionality of a space without breaking the bank. Shower kits and stalls enable homeowners to renovate bathrooms with less hassle than creating a tileor stone-based shower enclosure. Kit pieces drop in place and may only require minor plumbing work. Certain kits can be installed directly over dated showers for a quick remodel turnaround. Cabinet refacing - Homeowners who want to keep the layout of a kitchen intact but simply update its look can turn to cabinet refacing. The Kitchen Magic renovation company says refacing or resurfacing uses quality wood or laminate veneer to change the color and appearance of the exterior of cabinets without having to remove the existing cabinet frames. New doors, drawers and hardware will complete the transformation at a fraction of the cost of a new cabinet build. Low-cost materials can keep renovation budgets in check and still produce beautiful results.
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14 I News Essex Free Press
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
County Council discusses Regional Energy Plan by Adam Gault Essex County Council met virtually once again last Wednesday, September 16, where members received a presentation from reps of the Essex County Regional Energy Plan (ECREP) Community Task Force. This presentation provided
an update on the countylevel Regional Energy Plan, highlighting further steps before its proposed implementation. Assembled in the wake of the City of Windsor and Essex County declaring a state of “climate emergency” in 2019, the task force is seeking the development
of a regional energy plan with the goal of making the region at the forefront of sustainable energy initiatives by 2050. Initiated a little over a month ago, the task force hopes to have a plan ready for implementation in around six-months from now, as it works alongside a team of
experts and consultants, in conjunction with ongoing public feedback, which can be provided online at countyofessex. ca “Nearly all respondents believe we should be doing more to address energy usage and the climate,” ECREP Chairperson and Essex
County Warden, Gary McNamara, said of the ongoing public survey. “I think it’s critical to continue to get the input from our local communities.” It was determined that Essex County’s household energy usage accounts for around 15 percent of the region’s
greenhouse emissions, higher than the national average, with regional transportation accounting for 30 percent of area greenhouse emissions. While addressing these issues are at the forefront of any potential plan, McNamara stressed that it was equally important to develop a plan that was economically advantageous, that would also allow for the creation of thousands of sustainably green jobs. “Most importantly, create at least one thousand jobs by 2025,” McNamara said of what the planners would like to see as part of the plan’s local economic impact. The core framework of the plan follows several key steps, which seeks to ensure reliable, cost-competitive energy services are provided to the people of Essex County as the transition to a cleaner energy model is made. The strategic framework for the ECREP is as follows: 1. Establish a baseline for energy use, energy related emissions and energy costs for 2019. 2. Establish goals for energy use, energy related emissions and energy costs for 2041. 3. Model energy use, energy related emissions and energy costs in 2041 with no action. 4. Undertake efficiency simulations that consider global best practice and local opportunities. 5. Recommend a preferred strategy to achieve the 2041 goals. 6. Identify priority projects for the first fiveyears. At this time, the task force is currently developing the simulations to determine what is needed to reach the energy sustainability goals over the course of the next 20 to 30-years. A final report and recommended action should be ready for presentation to County Council around the summer of 2021.
Thursday, September 24, 2020
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Community I 15
Essex Free Press
Sunflowers 4 Smiles field raises over $12K for Ronald McDonald House - The organizers were thrilled with the community support shown by Sylene Argent For around a month, organizers welcomed individuals and families to the one-acre Sunflowers 4 Smiles field, located just outside of Cottam, where they were able to enjoy outdoor space and host professional photo sessions during the pandemic, all while raising funds for Windsor’s Ronald McDonald House. Thanks to community support, organizers were able to raise a whopping $12,608.14, which far exceeded their original goal of $5,000. Because of the massive success of the event, the organizers will forward around $9000 of the funds to the Windsor Ronald McDonald location and will forward the remaining funds to the London facility. “The donations just kept pouring in,” Cindy Vander Veen said, who was one of the organizers for the fundraiser. She was thrilled with the support shown to the Sunflowers 4 Smiles event. “It was unbelievable, the support. It was just amazing.” The field of around 31,000 sunflowers was open between August 15 and September 12, with individuals allowed to enter the
field on September 13 to cut bouquets and take flowerheads to make birdseed. One fortunate happenstance took place when her dad, Gary Anger, tried to cutdown the field, but had trouble with his mower. A few hours later, a group showed up from Toronto, wanting to enjoy the field, and because the field was still standing, they were able to do so, Vander Veen said. A few nice surprises that took place in the sunflower field during the monthlong fundraiser included three wedding proposals, a couple birth announcements, and a few gender reveal parties. Hopefully the pandemic will be over next year, Vander Veen said, noting many individuals offered to volunteer for the fundraiser’s second installment. “Which is really nice.” The organizers, were very appreciative of those who supported the event, and to the Anger family for allowing the use of their field to host the month-long fundraiser. Organizers are already planning on hosting the event again next year, but have ideas to get the fundraiser to really blossom. There have been talks with a few
Photo submitted. Sunflowers 4 Smiles organizers Gary and Betty Anger, Ashley Rocheleau and Jamieson, and Cindy Vander Veen, pose with the $12,608.14 cheque they were able to forward to the Windsor Ronald McDonald House, as a result of a successful, month-long fundraiser.
couples who would like to host wedding ceremonies on the farm. Another idea may include hosting an orchestral performance from within the field. Organizers are also thinking about planting wildflowers to complement the sunflowers in the field next year. Catherine Nolan, the Volunteer and Community Engagement Specialist with the Windsor Ronald McDonald House, said her organization was thrilled with the outcome of the fundraiser and to have been chosen as the beneficiary. “I was incredibly surprised. I could not believe how much they raised,” she said. A portion of the funds the Windsor Ronald McDonald House received from the Sunflowers 4 Smiles fundraiser will go towards sponsoring the Lanai Room, which provides guests a place to grab fresh
air. Providing funding for this space of tranquility, she said, was suiting as that is what the event offered its own guests. The other portion will go towards meals and room stays for families needing to use the facility. Over the course of the pandemic, the local children’s organization had great donations of pre-packages meals forwarded to support families using the facility. Staff also used many of the momentary donations for groceries for home cooked meals for the guests, Nolan said. Currently, the Windsor Ronald McDonald House is back to full capacity. This week, a modified day pass program will begin, which is starting to get into a new normal, Nolan added. Also this week, a handful of volunteers will start back to tackle specific tasks around the facility.
16 I Classifieds Essex Free Press
Classifi Classi fieds
Fax: 519.776.4014
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FARMING _____________________ WANTED Farm Land to Rent Cash or Share Crop Call Jeff Siefker (cell) 519-796-1240 or (home) 519-776-9501. 1-t _____________________
HELP WANTED _____________________ HIRING! LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE and LANDSCAPE LABOURERS, $18/hour, Experience necessary. Fax your resume to (519) 723-2336. 1-tf _____________________ HELP WANTED: Aphria Inc. is looking for Greenhouse Production Associates to join their team. Duties include daily crop maintenance, harvesting, crop rotation, inventory counts, and cleaning of greenhouse. No public transportation available. Located in Leamington, ON. Compensation starts at $14.00/hour. Full time hours Monday through Friday. Please apply at careers@aphria.com or mail resume to P.O. Box 20009 269 Erie St. S. Leamington, ON N8H 3C4. 9-t
HELP WANTED _____________________ HELP WANTED: Hairdresser required. Country Village Homes, Woodslee, On. Approximately 12 hours or 2 days per week. Must have a valid license and liability insurance. Experience with seniors a definite asset. Please email resume to: jacarriere@southbridgecare. ca or fax 519-839-4813. 36-2t* _____________________
SERVICES _____________________
MARTY’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIRS Tune-ups, repairs, & service on snowblowers, riding lawn mowers, chainsaws, & more! 519-733-0986, (c) 519-965-5918. 4-tf _____________________ KENNETH YARDWORKS Fall Clean Up. Sod, mulch, eavestrough cleaning and repairs, power washing. Trees & bushes trimmed or removed. Loads to the dump. Fully licensed & insured. Free estimates. Call Kenneth: 519-982-0362. 11-tfn
Sell It! Find it! Rent It! Buy It! in The Classifieds
519-776-4268
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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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_____________________ Buying or selling a farm? Do you know the right questions and answers? Farm Experienced Realtor Carl Idzinski, Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty - Brokerage. 519-817-8891. 22-tt _____________________
FOR RENT
_____________________ FOR RENT: SECURE OUTDOOR STORAGE in Essex available any time. Ideal for boats, cars, trailers. Call 519-776-4875 for details. 36-tfn
with a LIBERTY WATER BACKUP Sump Pump NO HYDRO required!
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
Word Ads - 25 words or less ........................ $6.00 + HST Extra words .................................................... 20¢/word Display Classifieds ....................................... Call for rates
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_____________________ FOR RENT: House for rent: spacious, three bedrooms, large treed yard, close to all conveniences. Phone: 519-7389779. 36-tfn _____________________
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_____________________ CASH PAID for scrap cars and trucks. Free removal. Please phone: 519-776-1361 or 519-791-5046. 46-t _____________________ 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 _____________________ PET DOG WANTED - Labrador or Retriever, or Spaniel. Water dog. Young male or female. Will provide excellent home. Call: 519-984-5716 37-tfn
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Earn up to 800k in advertising by sponsoring the Ontario Junior Citizen Awards. This inspiring and extremely worthwhile program recognizes youth between the ages of 6 and 17 who are involved in community service, contribute to their community while overcoming a physical or psychological limitation, have performed an act of heroism, and/or are a "good kid" who goes above and beyond what is expected of someone their age. Nominations are received from across the province and a panel of judges selects 12 final recipients who are honoured during a special ceremony. For more information or to express interest in this unique sponsorship opportunity, please contact Kelly Gorven at k.gorven@ocna.org
Thursday, September 24, 2020
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Community I 17
Essex Free Press
2020 Kingsville Terry Fox run raised over $9660 Submitted by Marilyn Farnworth, Kingsville Terry Fox Run Site Organizer Terry Fox’s 40th anniversary virtual
run in Kingsville was hosted on Sunday, September 20, and it was another successful fundraiser. Thanks to all the
participants and donors, $9660 was raised for cancer research. This is an example of what can be done when a community rallies together for
41st annual Ruthven Apple Festival to be held virtually submitted to EFP Due to safety concerns with COVID-19, the 2020 Ruthven Apple Festival will shift to a virtual format this year, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, September 26-27. All the proceeds raised through this new format will continue to go towards purchasing or maintaining Community Living Essex County’s accessible vehicles, to help people with intellectual disabilities more fully participate in the community. Many of the festival’s popular elements will continue, and will appeal to all age groups. Children’s attractions have been incorporated to encourage traffic to the website throughout the course of the weekend, along with a combination of pre-recorded and live-streamed events, including entertainment, a virtual classic car show, cooking classes, and art and pie auctions. As well, a variety of pies from local bakeries will be available to purchase
online. “We have aimed to try and recreate the popular festival experience with virtual vendors and the creation of the Apple Fest in a Basket fundraiser,” Tony DeSantis, Manager of Community Relations with Community Living Essex County, stated, adding a limited number of baskets will be available for purchase at the Apple Fest shop on the festivals website www.ruthvenapplefestival.com. The baskets are filled with local items representing the flavour of the festival and Essex County, including apple butter, maple syrup, honey, jams, soups, candy and caramel apples, apple cider vinegar, locally grown apples, and much more. Typically, the annual Ruthven Apple Festival attracts thousands of individuals every fall, and in its 40-year history, has raised over one million dollars in support of Community Living Essex County. Visit the festival website for further details on this year’s event.
a common cause— ”Kingsville Strong.” Kudos to the MFit team of Adrian and Marilyn Farnworth, Michelle Kraus, Beth Ann Meloche, and Marie Taylor, who raised a whopping $6290 in pledges this year. Also, congrats to Emily Bezaire for collecting $700 in support of her father, who is undergoing radiation treatments. Those who would like to donate to this total can do so at www.terryfox.ca/ terryfoxrun/kingsville. It’s ironic that due to a pandemic, we were forced, like Terry, to set out on our own, or in a small group of family and friends, to walk, run, bike, or do an activity of our choice. Hence, the theme “One Day. Your Way.” This is my 40th year of participating, and I still get emotional thinking of Terry and his legacy. The characteristics that Terry displayed in his Marathon of Hope, including determination, day-to-day commitments, focus, tolerance to pain,
Pictured is MFit team. (Left to right) Adrian Farnworth, Beth Ann Meloche, Marie Taylor, Michelle Kraus, and Marilyn Farnworth.
and loneliness, are similar to what we endure in our daily struggles to fight COVID-19. By September 1980, Terry had travelled halfway across Canada, running 5373km with a prosthetic leg, and averaging a grueling 42km per day before he was forced to stop in Thunder Bay, Ontario. He received the sad news that his metastatic sarcoma cancer was back and had spread to his lungs. Canadians have never forgotten Terry, and, around the world, he is the face of cancer research. To date, an incredible $800 million has been raised with tremendous
results. The five-year cancer survival rate has increased from 25 percent to 63 percent, and a decrease in mortality rates of 17 percent for women and 35 percent for men. In 2019 alone, 437 researchers and 47 research projects were funded. This is proof that your annual donations have made an enormous difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families! Let’s remember to stay positive and “Try like Terry” as we continue to make Terry’s dream of finding a cure for cancer a reality. Terry has shown the world that one person can definitely make a difference!
“Grateful for the people at Revera Iler Lodge who care for us in every way. Every day.” Julie & Zoe
Residents of Revera
From the friendly and dedicated staff to the residents who brighten up your day, our people are the ones who make retirement living so rewarding. Learn more about Revera Iler Lodge and everything it has to offer. Call 519-776-9482 today or visit ReveraLiving.com
Iler Lodge
111 Iler Ave, Essex
18 I Personals / Community Essex Free Press
FromThe Heart
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
ERCA’s Virtual Bike Tour gets a lot of attention
To place a personal notice, email your photo and content to contact@essexfreepress.com or drop by our office at 16 Centre St., Essex. Personal notices must be received by Monday at 12:00 noon to appear in the Thursday edition. _______________________________________________
BIRTHDAY ANNOUNCEMENT
_______________________________________________
EARS TO
YOUR
TH
70
BIRTHDAY Bruce “Merel” Heil
_______________________________________________
IN LOVING MEMORY
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Happy 100th Birthday in heaven Dad September 17, 2020
Wilfred Joseph O’Neil
Mom’s with you now. We miss you both so much. Love your family. _______________________________________________
IN LOVING MEMORY
_______________________________________________
In loving memory
Stanley J. Shura Sept. 21, 1915 - Nov. 16, 1980
Helen M. Shura Dec. 7, 1918 - Sept. 12, 2001
When tomorrow starts witout us, please try to understand, That an angel came and called our names, and took us by the hand; The angel said our place was ready, in heaven far above, And that we have to leave behind, all those we dearly love. But when we walked through heaven’s gates, we felt so much at home. For God looked down, smiled at us, and told us “Welcome Home.” So, when tomorrow starts without us; don’t think we’re far apart. For everytime you think of us. We’ll be right there in your hearts.
~ Lovingly remembered by Carol and Wayne, grandsons Randy & Julie, Dale, great-grandchildren Keith, Laura, Jonathan, & Randy. Korey and Janelle, great-great grandchildren Olivia, Haley, Brayden, Jenson, Chloe, Landon, & Harlee. _________________________________________________________
OBITUARIES
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ALLAN, James R.- With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved James on September 19, 2020 at the young age of 76. Dear husband of Cheryl (nee Brown) with whom he celebrated 55 years as of September 11, 2020. Loving father of Scott Allan (Lisa Edlington). Treasured grandpa of Greg Allan and Abby. Brother of Margaret Swan (Veikko Autio) and the late Dawn Allan. Brother-in-law of Bonnie Townsend (Tom) and Judy Iocco. Also survived by three nieces and one nephew as well as 7 great nieces and nephews. James retired from General Motors Trim Plant after 32 years of service. He was a board member of the Ontario Society (Coalition) of Senior Citizens Organizations; United Way Windsor; Local 1973 Retirees; Essex Retirees; and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 201 – Essex. Cremation has taken place. On Friday family and friends are invited to gather at the Kennedy Funeral Home Limited (519-776-7378) 128 Talbot St. N, Essex for a celebration of life from 2-5 p.m. MASKS ARE REQUIRED AND ATTENDANCE LEVELS WILL BE MONITORED PRIOR TO ENTRY BEING GRANTED. NO RESERVATION REQUIRED. Donations may be made to Ontario Lung Association. You may send your condolence online at www.kennedyfh.com
Photo submitted: Connor and Meredith participate in ERCA’s Virtual Bike Tour in Essex.
by Sylene Argent Even though the Essex Region Conservation Authority’s (ERCA) 2020 Bike Tour was held virtually this year, the event still received a lot of attention from cyclists and community members interested in active transportation. From September 18-28, residents throughout the region were urged to take to local greenways and trials to cycle in support of ERCA’s 2020 Virtual Bike Tour. Participants were asked to post their ride online, in addition to sharing where their favourite routes are and promote active transportation. Danielle Breault Stuebing, ERCA’s Director of Communications and Education, said the registration fee to participate this year was waived to maximize participation, but participants were encouraged to provide a minimum donation of $25. Funds raised will support trails. Some donators went above and beyond, she added. ERCA set a fundraising goal of $20,000, and Breault Stuebing said, which is currently around the halfway mark. The annual Bike Tour, she said, has been taking place for at least eight years. “It is strange not to greet everyone in person, but it is nice to see the continuation of the event,” she said. “We were happy to do the bike tour virtually,” Breault Stubing added, noting the annual event, since it was moved to an online format, was extended to a tenday period for maximum flexibility for participants. She said there have been a lot of social media posts made about the tour and talking about ERCA. “It has been exciting to see everyone enjoying the trails.”
What was neat about the transition to hosting the event virtually, she added, is that ERCA reached out to cyclists to ask what their favourite routes are, and those routes were posted on the event page. This information allowed participants to ride their own route or explore the areas others enjoy to see new things. “The really remarkable thing we saw through COVID, is how necessary trails are for mental and physical wellbeing,” she said, adding residents have been forwarding words of thanks to the local conservation authority for keeping conservation areas and trails open during the pandemic. “We can live with out a lot of things, but connection to nature is paramount to our health.” The event will take place until Tuesday, September 28. More information can be found at: essexregionconservation.ca/education-and-events/ essex-region-conservation-bike-tour-2/
What’s Going On... SEPT. 26 & 27 - Ruthven Virtual Apple Festival - Free Admission. Proceeds benefit Community Living Essex County. For Info: communitylivingessex.org/events/ruthvenapple-festival SEPT. 29 HARROW BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - Camoes Portuguese Club of Harrow, 390 Sinasac Street West. From 1-7pm. For all info, visit: www.blood.ca OCT. 13 ESSEX BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - Essex Centre Sports Complex, 60 Fairview Ave W. From 1-7pm. For all info, visit: www.blood.ca HIATUS HOUSE: offers counselling services in Essex County. Women’s Fresh Start group therapy is once a week. For info or to schedule an intake appointment, call the 24-hour Hiatus House helpline at 519-252-7781. SUN COUNTY LYME AWARENESS SUPPORT GROUP offers monthly support for Lyme disease patients, family, & friends. Look us up on Facebook for updates.
Thursday, September 24, 2020
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Essex Free Press
Cadets, Youth programs and Monthly Movie Night are still postponed. Visit Essex CRC online to listen to a past sermon or two. www.essexcrc.ca. sponsorship by:
St. Stephen’s - Church of the Redemer submitted by Reverend Kimberly Myer
Fresh food. Friendly neighbours 191 Talbot St. S., Essex
519-776-4255 Salvation Army Essex Church submitted by Carolyn Barnett
The Salvation Army Food Bank is operated by appointment only. Please call Vicki at 519-776-4628 to make arrangements. All other programs and Sunday services are still on hold due to the pandemic. Please continue to pray for all those affected by COVID-19.
Essex Christian Reformed Church submitted by Beverley Van Huizen
We are so excited to be back to in-person worship services and to welcome Pastor Steve Vandyk as our new pastor. During this time, we need to make changes to our services and ask everyone who would like to attend, call the church office to reserve a spot. Unfortunately, we cannot offer nursery supervision or Sunday school. Our GEMS &
Voice Of Inspiration “When you are in the midst of your old friends, you look back at your life through a rear view mirror and rekindle some of your finest and forgotten memories.” ~ Syed Badiuzzaman
Both St. Stephen’s and Church of the Redeemer have returned to Sunday morning services. Church of the Redeemer 9am and St. Stephen’s 10:30am. Please wear a mask. Health Unit precautions have been put in place to keep everyone as safe as humanly possible. All are welcome to worship our Lord and Saviour with us.
Woodslee United Church submitted by Sue Holman
We are working hard to get Sunday Services again. We hope to have Services open sometime in October. Missing Services? You can get them on our website at: woodsleepastoralcharge.ca. Click on the sermon box and watch the video of Rev. Carl delivering his message. Click on the bulletin box and receive this week’s bulletin. Stay save until we all can meet again. Brooker News submitted by Ruth Newman
Weather permitting, we will gather at the home of Ruth Newman, this Sunday, at 10am for worship. Please bring a lawn chair and respect social distancing. Rob Cornies will bring the message. In case of stormy weather, we will meet inside our Christian Education Auditorium. Social distancing and a mask are both required. Please pray for our country, the many who are ill, and those in nursing homes.
St. Paul’s Anglican Church So glad to be back in our building and offering Sunday worship! Please join us for 11am service, this Sunday! There are safety protocols in place. Please bring your own mask. Things will look a little different from what they did when we last worshipped together, so please be patient as we adapt to our new situation. As we continue to navigate through this difficult time, know that we are still hard at work to provide you with the spiritual resources that you need. Visit our website (www. stpaulstrinity.org), social media, or contact us by phone at: 519-776-7711. Messages are checked regularly at the church office.
Harrow United Church submitted by Larry Anderson
We warmly welcome you to Harrow United Church and invite you to join us for worship in our sanctuary this Sunday at 10:30am. We will observe social distancing protocols and ask everyone to wear a face-mask. We truly appreciate the patience and understanding of everyone as we adapt our ways to ensure the health and safety of all. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact our Minister, Rev. Darrow Woods who would be pleased to speak with you: 519-738-4223. Please find information about Harrow United Church on our website at www.harrowunited.org.
Bethel-Maidstone United
We’re looking forward to gathering in the sanctuary to worship God this Sunday! We are following protocols to keep everyone safe. Screening questions will be posted - we ask that you consider them carefully. Mask, sanitation methods, and govenment guidelines will be put in place. See us for info. Congregating inside the church will be discouraged. We appreciate your patience and kindness as we adapt to ensure everyone’s safety! The secretary can be reached in the office on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9am - 1pm. Our contact info is: bmuc@xplornet. ca or (519) 723-2284. 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.
Essex United Church
Join us for worship on Sunday, September 27th at 11:00 am. **PLEASE note time change! This week ONLY. We look forward to seeing you. Rev. Lexie Chamberlain will lead our worship. The Essex Area Food Bank is available to anyone who needs assistance at this time in the gym, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Hours open 8:30 - 11:45am.
Maidstone Cross submitted by Wendy Cunningham
Our family of parishes, Central Essex County Catholic Family of Parishes, is up and running. Daily Mass is on Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. and weekend Mass is on Sundays at 8:30 a.m. You need reservations for weekend Mass, by contacting the parish office at: 519-776-8483. Thank you to all the wonderful volunteers for helping to welcome back our parishioners to church. Our prayers and sympathies go to the Turton and Sykes family on the passing of their son, Robert. Please keep in
Continued on Page 21
20 I Business Directory Essex Free Press
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
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Thursday, September 24, 2020
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Community Hub / Business Directory I 21
Essex Free Press
Comber Poultry Club is back in business…at a distance! We met at leader Dave & Julie’s house on Sunday, September 13, 2020. We started the meeting with the 4-H pledge. Most of us forgot it, but came back to us quickly. After that, we figured out who was going to auction their
birds at our mini show with social distancing practices in place. Of course, the most important thing is that we need to learn how to show our birds and get them ready for their big day. We were taught how to wash, blow dry on a low cool setting, and then how to handle our birds for the show. The meeting ended and we had snacks of chips, granola bars, and juice. Fun fact: Did you know that Americana chickens lay blue eggs?
TREE & STUMP REMOVAL
FURNITURE RESTORATION
LANDSCAPING
WINDOWS & DOORS
INSURANCE
FINANCIAL
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Continued from Page 19 your prayers and all the people who are sick, shut in, and in Hospice. Please stay healthy and safe!
Holy Name of Jesus Parish Church submitted by Wendy Cunningham
God bless Louise Lapain as she starts her NET Ministry in Calgary, Alberta. Our family of parishes, Central Essex County Catholic Family of Parishes, is up and running. For more information and for bulletins, please visit the new website at: centralessexcatholic. dol.ca.
HANDYMAN SERVICE
New weekend Mass times are Saturday at 6p.m. and Sunday at 11a.m. on a first come, first serve basis. Weekday Mass times are Friday and Saturday at 8:30a.m. Life Chain takes place on Sunday, October 4th at 2:30 p.m. at the corner of Talbot and Arthur. One hour of a silent vigil. If you have moved, gotten rid of your landline, or if you have an e-mail, please let the parish office know in order to keep an up to date parishioner list. Please stay healthy and stay safe!
4-H Comber Poultry Club Meeting Submitted by: Ember Parks
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BAKER TILLY TRILLIUM LLP 39 MAIDSTONE AVE. E., ESSEX, ON N8M 2J3
VANESSA MULLINS, CPA, CA T 519.776.6262 X304 E vmmullins@bakertilly.ca W www.bakertilly.ca
ACCOUNTING
HICKS, MACPHERSON, IATONNA & DRIEDGER LLP. Chartered Professional Accountants Tyler Hicks Heather MacPherson Lindsay Iatonna Tim Driedger Ashley Meyer P.O. Box 189, 49 Erie St. N., Leamington, Ontario N8H 3W2 Phone 519-326-2681 • Fax 519-326-8044 • www.hmid.ca
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22 I Opinion / Community Essex Free Press
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
Mini Steam & Gas Engine Show returns to McGregor 1939 Plymouth 4-door convertible
Machines and tractors, dating back more than 100 years in age, were displayed in perfect working order during the Mini Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Show.
Keith Boardman took this photo in 1991 of the same car I saw in Toronto in 1961.
In my last year of high school in Toronto in 1961, I often hitch-hiked home from school instead of taking the subway because it gave me the chance to ride in a variety of different cars. The car I remember best didn’t even offer me a ride. A man drove by in a 1939 Plymouth 4-door convertible. It was black with a faded tan top and it was the first one I had ever seen. I knew right away it was a 1939 Plymouth because a friend of ours in Leamington named Bob Carder owned a dark blue 1939 Plymouth 4-door sedan in high school. He bought it for $95. But until I saw the one going by when I was hitch-hiking in Toronto, I never knew that Chrysler made a Plymouth 4-door convertible in 1939. I later learned only 387 of these cars were built. And in 1991, thirty years after I graduated from high school, I attended a classic car show in Milton, Ontario, and saw a dark blue 1939 Plymouth 4-door convertible. It was a hot day and the top was up. The owner was sitting in the back seat. Someone would climb in for a chat and then leave. I waited for my turn and climbed in and introduced myself. That’s when I met “Porky” Schneider and asked if his blue car had ever been black. “Young man, it was black when I pulled it out of a wrecking yard in St. Catharines in 1965. How did you know?” I told him about the black one I had seen in Toronto in 1961. He was convinced the one I saw while hitchhiking home from school was the same car I was now sitting in thirty years later! Now knowing Porky had passed away, I recently contacted his son Kurt to see if the car was still in the family. “Yes, Bill. I still own Dad’s 1939 Plymouth. We are now into the fourth generation of Schneiders who are enjoying the car that Dad restored in the 1970s. We affectionately call her ‘Blue Beauty.’” I’m always looking for stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca.
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by Adam Gault For more than 35-years, enthusiasts have convened for the Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum’s annual weekend show at the museum’s McGregor grounds, and this year was no exception. With earlier pandemic restrictions looking like the long-running show might be cancelled this year, the show did go on this past weekend, amid, now familiar, COVID-era restrictions. The event highlighted the critical role steam and gas engines have played in the progression and development of modern agricultural practices, and more than a century of mechanical development. While a stripped-down affair
compared to previous years, the event still featured a number of vendors, equipment demonstrations, and tractor pulls. Several attendees did express some disappointment, however, as with this year’s smaller turnout, there were no threshing or saw-mill demonstration. “Some people are not as happy, but it’s better than nothing,” Gary Struhar, President of the Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Museum, explained of the smaller than normal event. “We’re trying to put on a half-decent show with what we’re limited with.” The show is also a critical fundraising activity for the local museum, and the successful weekend event could not have
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Thursday, September 24, 2020
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Community I 23
Essex Free Press
Mini Steam & Gas Engine Show returns to McGregor...
Marcel Rivest oils his more-than-a-century old engine on Saturday morning, during the Mini Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Show.
come at a better time, as many cultural institutions have been struggling with fundraising for the better part of 2020. “Right now, the long-term, I’m seeing that we will be around with no problems,” Struhar said of the museum’s financial status. Part of that success can be attributed to museum members, like Marcel Rivest, a member of more than 30-years, whose passion for historical engines came through in the care of his pristine 1918 machine. “I look at these [machines] and I see the transformations of where we are today,” Rivest said of his love of their historical aspect. “This one would have probably been under a windmill, and they would use it to get water on days with no wind.” The museum is still seeking new members at this time. For additional membership info, contact President Gary Struhar at (519) 817-5712.
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24 I Community Essex Free Press
I Thursday, September 24, 2020
CTMHV hosts return of popular flea market
by Adam Gault The Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village (CTMHV) returned with its popular two-day fall flea market this past weekend, September 19 and 20. Despite COVID-19 rules and restrictions in place, the community’s appetite for social events could not be denied as the lineup to enter the event snaked around the parking lot, as guests waited for their turn to enter with the capacity limits in place. Representatives of the Windsor Essex County Health Unit made rounds of the property in the week before the event, to ensure all proper health and safety protocols would be followed, which included a limited number of vendors and guests, a one-directional walkway throughout the event, and the wearing of masks while in the market. “We’re limited to the number we can have in [the market], and we’re keeping track, and we’re taking names,” Lisa Wacheski, Education Manager and Curator of the CTMHV, said of the precautions and contact tracing efforts. “There’s a couple of vendors that are upset because they wanted to let more people in, but there’s nothing we can do.” Manning the front of the line was Vice-Chairperson of the CTMHV Board, Mickey Moulder, who said he wasn’t surprised by the turnout amid a backdrop of
beautiful early fall weather. The great attendance, he added, indicates that people are ready to return to normal. “These people have been waiting in line for over an hour. That tells you how starved they are to go somewhere,” Moulder said. “Everybody understands that we’re in it together, but over an hour in line, it’s amazing to me. I don’t think I could do an hour.” The CTMHV has now been open for more than three weeks. Its doors were reopened during the later portion of the summer, which included the return of the museum tours as well as the reopening of its ‘50s style diner. Normally, busloads of students would be brought to the property this time of year, so the students could take part in the Heritage Village’s educational programs, but with ongoing restrictions in place, that seem unlikely for the foreseeable future. In the interim, the museum has hired an education assistant through the government funded Canada Summer Jobs Program, with the hopes of developing some online educational programs for students to learn from in place of conventional field trips. Those interested in museum tours are asked to call ahead at (519) 7766909 to ensure proper museum staffing as a result of current restrictions.