Essex Free Press - March 26, 2020

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Vol. 140

A LOOK INSIDE

Holy Name student places third in Harrow Fair book cover contest

Essex County Council notes for March 18 PAGE 2 _______________ Essex continued Council notes - Monday, March 16 PAGE 3 _______________ WECHU public health updates related to Coronavirus (COVID-19) PAGE 8 _______________ Abode Respite Service secures new home in Essex Centre PAGE 9 _______________ Food Bank in need of financial donations as needs rise during Coronavirus pandemic PAGE 20 _______________

Looking For A Good Home

“PRINCESS” See Page 5 for adoption info.

by Sylene Argent When 12-year-old Connor Latour, a student at Holy Name Catholic Elementary School, was called down to the office recently, his initial reaction was that he thought he was in trouble.

His fears were quelled, however, once he received the news his art piece earned third place in the 2020 Harrow Fair book cover contest. In fact, the news was exciting to the young artist.

Last Friday morning, Brad Anger, a member of the Harrow Fair Board of Directors, stopped over at the local catholic elementary school to congratulate Latour on his accomplishment, thank him for participating in the annual contest, and present him with his earnings, a $10 cheque.

Latour was pleased with how his artwork turned out before he submitted it into the competition.

His submission included

Thursday, March 26, 2020

a horse, pig, and pumpkin patch in the foreground, with a Ferris wheel and other fair necessities in the background. He drew his pictured to be in line with the Harrow Fair’s 2020 theme, “Bushels, Bales, and Tails.”

The picture Latour drew will be showcased within the 2020 Harrow Fair book, which will highlight all its events and activities that will take place over the Labour Day weekend.

Latour was thinking he would spend his earnings on a special dinner for himself to celebrate a job well done.

Anger was told the selection committee had a hard time choosing the top three winners as there were a lot of submissions, many of which were very well done.

“It’s encouraging,” Anger said of the Harrow Fair Board receiving so many entries this year. The Board has an aim to keep youth engaged with the

Issue No. 12

Brad Anger, a member of the Harrow Fair Board (pictured right), presents 12-year-old Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Elementary School student, Connor Latour, with a $10 cheque for earning third place in the 2020 Harrow Fair book cover contest.

annual four-day event, so it is nice to see continued interest.

Latour said he went to the Harrow Fair last year

and especially enjoyed sitting on the hay bales, while listening to the live music entertainment. He said the food onsite was

also very good.

The top two winners in the Harrow Fair book cover contest were from Harrow Public School.

State of Emergency declared for Essex County, Town of Essex

by Sylene Argent “Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures,” Warden Gary McNamara said, as he declared a State of Emergency for the County of Essex during a special presentation held at the Essex Civic and Education Centre on Sunday afternoon.

Later that afternoon, the Town of Essex also Declared a State of Emergency.

“This will enable us to marshal all of our resources in the battle against COVID-19. And, it will ensure collective and coordinated regional response to protect the residents and business of Essex County,” McNamara said.

“This declaration is a proactive and precautionary measure that aligns our chain of command and our resources to most effectively

Continued on Page 2

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I Thursday, March 26, 2020

Essex Free Press

State of Emergency declared... Continued from Front Page Essex County Council notes confront this rapidly evolving health crisis,” McNamara said. He added it also provides the County with tools to protect the health and wellbeing of residents, and places everyone in a constant state of preparedness, focused on essential services and ready to react to COVID-19 and issues relating to flooding and rising lake levels.

“The County has made this declaration with the full support of our mayors of our seven local municipalities,” he added, thanking the local councils and municipal staff for their diligent response to the pandemic.

He noted the County needs to keep essential services going, such as keeping water flowing and sewers going.

“There is no doubt, we are stronger together, than we are apart,” McNamara said. “A coordinated regional response is the optimal way to respond to an indiscriminate and deadly virus that knows no boarders. We will work together, all of us here in Essex County, to flatten the curve to keep our frontline workers safe.”

McNamara thanked area residents for staying home, avoiding crowds, and doing what they can to avoid the spread of the virus. “Your social distancing efforts, particularly over the next two-weeks, as Canadians return home from vacation, will make a difference. I cannot stress enough the importance for those coming back home to self-isolate [for 14-days].

This is critical. It is in our best interest to do that. I know it is frustrating, maybe a little unnerving, but make no mistakes, your efforts will save lives.”

He also urged those coming back from abroad not to go to work or go to the store during their self-isolation period. “Get in your house, get your groceries delivered, and stay there for 14-days. Stay at home when you are sick, everyone,” he said.

McNamara thanked CAO Rob Maisonville and County staff for their work under stressful circumstances. He also expressed gratitude to paramedics with Essex-Windsor EMS, and nurses, PSWs, and support staff at Sun Parlour Home. “You are doing heroic work on the frontlines of the crisis, and our community thanks you for it.”

He also recognized the essential workers who are keeping shelves at grocery stores stocked, and who are preparing takeout and delivery food for residents across the County.

“Above all, be kind, be compassionate to one another,” he urged.

The Town of Essex Declared a State of Emergency later Sunday afternoon.

“The state of emergency declaration is the next step in what is truly a regional response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mayor Larry Snively stated in a news release. “The declaration ensures we can act quickly together and deploy resources where they’re needed most.”

The declaration opens the Town’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), made up of Town administration and Essex Fire & Rescue Services, which will continue to monitor the situation with information from the Windsor Essex County Health Unit, as well as the federal and provincial ministries of health.

for Wednesday, March 18

by Sylene Argent Civic Centre lease agreement with the Essex County Library County Council adopted a bylaw to authorize the execution of a lease agreement with the Essex County Library Board.

The Report to County Council notes that in 2017, County Council was notified of negotiations to purchase the facility with then Civic Centre property owners, the Greater Essex County District School Board, the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board, and the Essex Region Conservation Authority.

With the County of Essex being owner of the Civic Centre, it was able to collect rent from tenants.

The rate agreed upon was $15.60 per square foot, through to December 31, 2019, while maintaining an annual increase of 2.5 percent thereafter for five years, then a two-percent annual increases for the

next three years. In 2027, a review of the facility expenses and charges will be conducted to review the rental rates.

In 2019/2020, Infrastructure Services initiated the process of developing a lease agreement for the Essex County Library for 5,000 square feet.

The Report to County Council notes the Library Board actually leases 12, 683 square feet, but was only being charged for 5,000 square feet due to a discrepancy. The decision was made to continue to charge the County of Essex Library for only 5,000 square feet of space.

The monthly rental rates, not including HST, for the next five years are: $6,662.50 for 2020; $6,829.06; $6,999.79 for 2022; $7,174.78 for 2023; $7,354.15 for 2024. The total net revenue for the related rental spaces for the five-year period is $420,243.36, plus HST.

County CAO, Robert Maisonville, said this matter was a bit of housekeeping. By implementing this bylaw, he said, the matter is now finalized. The rates, he said, are consistent with others who lease space in the building.

Delegation of Authority in Emergencies – Procurement Policy County Council approved the delegation of authority for procurements exceeding $300,000 to the CAO and Clerk during periods when County Council suspends its regular meetings for emergency reasons.

Administration was also directed to bring forward a formal report of procurements approved under these delegation of authority provisions, along with any mitigation decisions made during the period.

The Report to County

Continued on Page 7

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Thursday, March 26, 2020 I

by Sylene Argent Council to consider waiving Development Charges for infill residential development Lori Chadwick, Director of Development Services, provided a presentation for Council to consider regarding residential infill development.

Council will have to decide, in the future, whether or not Development Charges should be waived, or if other incentive programs should be implemented, to encourage more residential development.

At a meeting in December, Council asked the Planning Department to create a report on Infill Residential Development opportunities within the Town of Essex, and the potential cost to ratepayers if Development Charges were eliminated on such lots.

Development Charges recover the capital costs associated with residential and nonresidential growth within a municipality. These costs are in addition to construction, and include items like internal roads

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Essex Free Press

- Continued from Monday, March 16 of a subdivision, sewers, watermains, sidewalks, and streetlights. The idea of having Development Charges is to service new growth in the municipality, so taxpayers are not on the hook.

Municipalities can make these charges through the Development Charges Act. Reduction in Development Charges, however, must be funded from other sources.

During the presentation to Council, Chadwick explained an infill lot is an existing vacant lot of record on an available piece of land, located between existing homes on a street with suitable municipal services for residential purposes.

“We feel that it helps to meet housing targets by providing another option for builders to develop residential dwellings.

It also provides an optimum use of municipal services,” Chadwick said of advantages associated with Council offering incentives for infill lot opportunities.

Other opportunities, she said, include the

reduction of land conversion for largescale development, it rejuvenates older neighbourhoods, and provides for more attainable housing options, which are modestly priced, new for sale homes.

During her presentation, Chadwick went through the inventory of lots that are ready to build, lots that are constrained by zoning, and lots that are constrained by services within the Town of Essex.

“Ready to build lots,” Chadwick said, are independent of abutting lots, and have proper zoning and municipal services in place. They are also an appropriate size for single-detached dwellings.

Chadwick used a GIS map during her presentation to show were the three types of lots were located within Essex Centre, Harrow Centre, McGregor Centre, Colchester Centre, and on County Road 50 West.

Through the Planning Department’s review, Chadwick said, there are

132 potential development infill dwelling units within the Town of Essex.

She said there is quite a bit of opportunity in Colchester Centre and along County Road 50 West, as there are 112 units that could be ready for development.

“So, we have plans to boost commercial d e v e l o p m e n t opportunities in Colchester. We have a Colchester Secondary Plan that we are going to re-open up and take a look at. We have an opportunity to bring in more development opportunities in that district, so could we tie incentives to promote residential growth in line with our mission for commercial growth as well,” Chadwick said.

The potential to incentivize through the waiving of Development Charges requires an amendment to the Development Charges Bylaw. In order to make any changes to the Development Charges Bylaw, the Town would have to hold a public meeting two weeks after an official report is Continued on Page 6

4 I Opinion Essex Free Press

I Thursday, March 26, 2020

Editorial &Opinion Howling at the Moon Serving Essex and the surrounding communities since 1896.

••• Comment by Sylene Argent •••

Published Thursdays as an independent weekly newspaper, owned and operated by The Essex Voice Limited.

So, my cat now enjoys watching TV

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OPINION & COMMENT The opinions expressed on these pages are those of their original authors and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Essex Free Press, its Editor or Publisher.

My cat, Dexter, has had some trouble walking the last little while, so I have tried my best to carrying him around the house to ensure he is feed and watered as needed, while we figure out what is causing this issue.

I love my cat very much, and have no issue giving him the extra care, as he is bright eyed and bushy tailed. And to date, he seems pretty content, despite his situation.

Dexter is the most loveable cat and is pretty happy with getting all the affection he can, so when I am home, I try to keep him near me, and when I am not, I have tried to put him near the back sliding door so he can look out the window and watch the birds if he gets bored.

The last little while, I have caught my little furball watching TV. Recently, I have been hooked on old episodes of “Unsolved Mysteries” – even though I still have to basically cover my ears when the theme music comes on as I did as a kid because it freaks me out for some unexplained reason.

And, I have noticed Dexter staring up at the screen, his little head moving side-to-side to follow any motion as he watched.

The other night, I again noticed him watching TV, so I thought I’d try something different, I turned off my show and found a long clip of birds of Youtube. Dexter was instantly hooked. He watched if for hours, and it one of the cutest things

I have ever was seen. I didn’t have the heart to change the channel until he eventually fell asleep.

Though I can make sure he is watered, fed, and gets plenty of love while I am around, I have worried about his boredom when I am not around. Now, I have something that will keep him entertained, and that makes me feel amazing.

It is those little things that really get me excited, when we pay close attention to a situation and come up with something cool that can provide a little bit of happiness for others.

LETTER POLICY The Essex Free Press welcomes letters to the editor on topics of interest to our readers. Letters should be typed or neatly handwritten and present the issues as clearly as possible in 300 words or less. We reserve the right to edit for length, grammar, and legal considerations. All letters must contain the name, address, and daytime phone number of the writer for verification purposes. Anonymous letters will not be considered for publication. If you have a legitimate concern and cannot sign your name to a letter, please contact the editor to discuss alternative means of handling the issue.

ADVERTISING Advertising is accepted on the condition that, in the event of an error, the portion of the ad occupied by the error, will not be charged for, but the balance will be paid at the usual rate. It is the responsibility of the advertiser to check an ad on first publication, and the publisher accepts no responsibility for errors in multiple insertions. The Essex Free Press reserves the right to reject or edit any advertisement likely to offend community standards.

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Commentary - OFA

Ag Safety Week promotes safe and strong farms in 2020

by Debra Pretty-Straathof, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Safety on the farm is important every day of the year.

The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association designates one week in March each year to celebrate ag safety week and raise awareness of the importance of working safely on farms.

This year, Ag Safety Week was March 15-21. The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association is focusing on safe and strong farms in 2020 by promoting messaging and tips to help everyone be stronger and promote resilience.

Specific themes this year include growing safety on the farm, growing wellness on the farm, and growing resilience on the farm.

Farm safety is everyone’s responsibility. To learn more about safety tips for your farm, watch videos, or download helpful safety discussion tools, visit agsafetyweek.ca.

The website is designed to help farmers talk about safety concerns on farms, assess on-farm hazards, and tips for developing an emergency preparedness plan. The online resource is full of practical hands-on and discussion guidelines for raising awareness and making farm safety a top priority.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) encourages all our members to use these online resources to talk about safe farm practices and help make every week about farm safety. Host a farm safety discussion with family and employees, make everyone a part of your farm’s safety by assigning responsibilities like safety assessments, and make the time to talk about how everyone is feeling and

handling the day-to-day stresses or challenges of the farm.

Keeping everyone safe on the farm also means checking in on the emotional and mental well-being of family members and employees.

The added pressure of the current COVID-19 pandemic – and with planting season already underway in parts of the province – means it has never been more important to make safety a priority. We know farmers across the province and across all commodities are working hard to continue delivering a safe and consistent food supply. Let’s be sure to always keep farm safety at the top of our list.

Farm and road safety is a top priority for OFA and we continue to develop resources and campaigns to promote safety and awareness as we head into the busy spring season. OFA has also launched a farm safety photo contest as another way to encourage farm safety. We’re asking members and their families to submit photos that demonstrate farm and road safety at work on their farms.

For more information about the photo contest, visit ofa. on.ca/photocontest.

Farming and rural lifestyles have their own unique safety and health challenges. Marking this week is an opportunity for the broader agricultural industry to promote and champion farm safety, too.

Here’s to safe and strong farms this week and every week in Ontario, and across Canada.

Thursday, March 26, 2020 I

Opinion I 5

Essex Free Press

Food security in Ontario remains strong during COVID-19 pandemic submitted by Ontario Federation of Agriculture In the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is reassuring Ontarians about the strength and safety of the local food supply system. Despite consumer concerns with availability, Canadian and Ontario products continue to be produced, processed, and distributed through our food distribution networks across the province. However, to help ease immediate short-term supply pressures, OFA is urging consumers to practice normal grocery buying habits with the assurance that fresh and processed products will continue to be made available.

Last week’s announcement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the provincial statement on March 14 by Ministers Ernie Hardeman and Christine Elliott, provide additional reassurances of public health protection measures and business continuity support.

The food supply system in Ontario, and across Canada, is well equipped – even in times of crisis – to continue providing healthy, safe, and affordable food. Ontario’s food distribution system will continue stocking grocery store shelves and our food supply chain can handle the additional pressures put on it as a result of the current health crisis.

“Our food system has never been stronger, and we want to assure all Ontarians that they will not run out of fresh, affordable food during these challenging times,” OFA President Keith Currie said. “Consumers are understandably anxious about the uncertainty we are

all facing, but one thing we want to do is quell their fears about food running out. There is no reason to hoard food.

There is enough to feed us all.”

Ontario’s diverse and innovative agri-food sector provides a powerhouse of safe, affordable food. There are 49,600 farms across the province growing more than 200 different farm and food products, and many of those commodities are further enhanced by the thriving and innovative food processing sector in the Greater Golden Horseshoe Area. Ontario consumers can be assured of the consistent, reliable, and secure food supply that Ontarians have access to every single day, even during uncertain times.

Everyone in Ontario is facing an unprecedented situation where we are seeing the effects of a global pandemic in our own homes and communities. During this time of uncertainty, it’s more important than ever to look out for our families, friends, and neighbours. As Prime Minister Trudeau stated yesterday, “That is what Canadians do in difficult times. We pull together and we look after each other.”

Ontario Federation of Agriculture The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is the largest general farm organization in Ontario, representing 38,000 farm families across the province.

As a dynamic farmer-led organization based in Guelph, the OFA works to represent and champion the interests of Ontario farmers through government relations, farm policy recommendations, research, lobby efforts, community representation, media relations, and more.

OFA is the leading advocate for Ontario’s farmers and is Ontario’s voice of the farmer.

Pet Of The Week: Princess Princess is a very timid cat and has a hard time seeking out comfort, companionhip, and a sense of security. She is not a very social cat, and even though she enjoys being pet, she isn’t the type to seek your attention. Gentle encouragement and patience are needed to gain her trust, so Princess will do best in a calm quiet, adult home with no animals.

Effective March 18, the Humane Society will be closed to the public until at least March 29, except by appointment.

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.

Visit the Windsor-Essex County Humane Society shelter to visit at 1375 Provincial Rd., Windsor. Ph: 519-966-5751. The adoption center is open everyday at 11am.

390 Talbot St. N. Essex, Ontario, N8M 2W4

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458 TALBOT RD. N., ESSEX, ON www.kenknappford.com 5197765287 www.countrysidechrysler.com

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519-776-4222 www.countychevroletessex.com

6 I News Essex Free Press

Continued Essex Council notes... released, and then hold a Council meeting 60 days after the report was made public to make a decision.

The Planning Department, Chadwick said, took into account there are different Development Charges for different centres in Essex. With that in mind, if all 132 potential infill dwelling units were developed, she said this could potentially be $1.3M in full Development Charges that, if Council decides to waive, would have to be funded somehow. This would be the worst-case scenario as there would be no way to know if all these potential lots will be developed or when they could be developed.

Council could put a timeframe on an incentivization through the Development Charges, she said.

Other potential incentivization opportunities, she added, could include waiving the rezoning application fees, which are $7,740. Educating and communicating with the individuals who own these lots could also help get the lots developed.

Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche said one of the things he looks at when considering the information provided in Chadwick’s report is that each one of these potential new homes would be

worth a minimum of $200,000. So, he was looking at the potential of property tax. On 132 homes, if the Town was able to collect around $2000 a year each for property taxes, the Town could potentially reclaim the Development Charges, if waived, in around seven years.

Meloche suggested the Town not necessarily waive the Development Charges for these 132 potential units, but create a loan program that would collect those taxes over that seven-year period, which would go back to pay the Development Charges. He also suggested that water and sewage not be included in such an incentivising program. A time limit could also be implemented on the offering of such a program.

Councillor Chris Vander Doelen said $1.3M is a lot for the Town to giveaway, and he was not sure the Town would have to. He said the Town just had a fabulous development month. He suggested the Town hold off on incentivizing construction along County Road 50 West and Colchester Centre, because he believes there is a lack of building there due to a lack of good internet. He believes that will changes over the next few years.

I Thursday, March 26, 2020

Continued from Page 3

Another way the Town could incentivize, Vander Dolen said, is to not give up the Development Charges, but to allow the opportunity, for appropriate units, to add duplexes or fourplexes to create more density.

Mayor Larry Snively said he agreed with both Meloche and Vander Doelen, but he believes the first step is to get Colchester Centre re-zoned commercial, then residential growth will come.

Councillor Sherry Bondy suggested the Town could look into offering developers one set of development fees for a duplex.

If Council decides to wave the Development Charges for the 132 potential dwellings, Council needs to keep in mind the money has to come from somewhere, CAO Chris Nepszy, said. This is money that is not in the current or future budgets. Before hosting a public meeting to get public feedback, he suggested Council host a special meeting to talk about these costs and where the money could come from.

Deputy Mayor Meloche put a motion forward that Essex’s Director of Corporate Service/Treasurer, Jeff Morrison, take a look at how the Town could finance covering the Development Charges for this potential program, not including for waste water and water.

Motion carried.

Morrison said the payback period Meloche mentioned has been used for other Development Charges programs, such as for commercial, multi-residential, and affordable housing programs, in Essex.

Results of Request for Tender – 2020 Essex Watermain Improvements Essex Council received the Department of Capital Works and Infrastructure’s report “Results of Request for Tender – 2020 Essex Watermain Improvements,” and further awarded the Request for Tender for this file to Nevan Construction Inc. in the amount of $1,888,055.04, including nonrefundable Harmonized Sales Tax. The Report to Council on the matter notes during the 2020 Capital Budget deliberations, Council approved funding for the Essex watermain improvements, which will include the replacement of

existing watermain, services, storm sewer, storm connection, sidewalk pavement milling, and resurfacing of existing roadway.

The areas to be included are: the Gordon, Wilson, and Station Street area; Queen Street improvements; Queen Street Storm; Gordon, Wilson, Fox, and Station Street Main Replacement; and Queen Street (Phillip Ferris to Concession 3), Queen Watermain (Ward 4).

A total of $2,556,005.00 was allocated in the budget for this work.

According to the report, ten companies submitted applications, and Nevan Construction Inc. came in with the lowest bid.

Essex Splashpad Washroom/ Changeroom RFT results Essex Council received the report “Splashpad Washroom/Changeroom Upgrade,” and further awarded the Request for Tender to 2519181 Ontario Inc., operating as Preston Construction, in the amount of $151,902.56, including non-refundable HST. According to the Report to Council, of the four bids, the lowest tender received was from Preston Construction Inc. As per the Town of Essex’s 2020 approved Capital Budget, $234,556 was allocated towards this project.

Councillor Sherry Bondy said she supports this project, but would like to have a washroom/changeroom installed near the Harrow Splashpad as well. She said it is challenging to bring young children to the arena bathrooms. She hoped any leftover funds could be used to build a similar washroom/changeroom facility for the Harrow Splashpad.

It was noted at the meeting that a washroom/changeroom for the Harrow Splashpad is in the forecast for next year’s budget.

Director of Community Services/ Deputy CAO, Doug Sweet, said the project was tendered last year. Once it is awarded, he would expect construction to start as soon as possible, keeping in mind that the Essex Fun Fest date would need to be avoided.

The $234,556 budget for the

Continued on Page 7

Thursday, March 26, 2020 I

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Essex Free Press

Continued Essex Council notes... Continued from Page 6 Essex County Council notes for project, Sweet continued, includes three components; the washrooms, to repair the flat roof, and demolish two of the sides of the existing building. The tenders for the later two components are out to tender currently.

Municipal Modernization Program Intake 1: Consulting Services Essex Council received the report, “Municipal Modernization Program Intake 1: Consulting Services,” and further appointed StrategyCorp to provide consulting services to create an Internal and Shared Service Delivery Review for the Town of Essex. Council also waived requirements under the Procurement Bylaw.

In the report CAO Chris Nepszy prepared, it notes that on November 1, 2019, the Honourable Steven Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, advised that Intake 1 of the Municipal Modernization Program would be available to municipalities.

The Province made $125 million available through 2022- 2023 to help small municipalities conduct new service delivery reviews.

Through the Province’s Municipal Modernization Program, the Town of Essex has an opportunity to conduct a service delivery review by an independent, third-party to identify opportunities for savings and efficiencies.

“The outcome from such a review would benefit the taxpayers and may assist in reducing or containing cost pressures faced by the municipality.

Furthermore, it is acknowledged that with current trends and announcements from

the Provincial Government is to reduce grants and funding (OMPF, Gas Tax, etc.) the Town will be forced to address levels of service and look to other solutions to remain sustainable, such as regional or shared services,” Nepszy noted in his report.

Administration is recommending to utilize StrategyCorp, the same consultant as Amherstburg, in order to deliver a regionally-minded, joint service delivery review within the tight timelines the province provided, it notes in the report.

StrategyCorp’s proposal of fees for consulting services for the Essex Internal and Shared Delivery Review is $140,786.75, which is within the successful grant awarded of $200,000, the report notes.

Councillor Sherry Bondy wondered, since there was a tight timeline, and with the COVID-19 virus keeping people in self-isolation, if the Province would give any leeway with the timeframe in which this file needed to be completed. She also wondered if the Town of Essex would have any role, with high-level meetings, to have Council weight in.

CAO Chris Nepszy said he assumes there could be some flexibility in the timelines, however, the consultant took on the project, knowing of the deadlines.

As far as Council involvement on the file, he said he thinks there will be opportunity for interjection.

He added the intent was to always look at regional partnerships, which will include exploring shared services with the County of Essex and neighbouring municipalities.

Wednesday, March 18...

Council notes that procurements in excess of $300,000 require approval from County Council, with contracts executed by the Warden and Clerk.

The report continues that due to unforeseen impacts of COVID-19, there may be a need to temporarily suspend regular County Council meetings. The approval of the delegation authority is meant to ensure business continuity.

The Report to County Council also notes the CAO and Department Heads will communicate with the Treasurer to identify budget mitigation measures and limit negative financial impacts due to emergency spending.

CAO Robert Maisonville said during a time of uncertainty, this measure may or may not be necessary. In the case it is needed, it will allow the County of Essex to continue to operate. He added, in the case the County needs to utilize this method, staff will keep members of its Council informed.

The Report adds that the County’s accounting system will track costs associated with its COVID-19 response.

Should provincial or federal programs be announced that allow for cost recovery or funding of these associated costs, the Financial Services Department will be in a position to report and claim.

Replacement of Stryker Power Pro Stretchers County Council approved allowing EssexWindsor EMS to purchase

forty Stryker Power Pro XT Stretchers for $909,920, plus HST, from Physio Control, a division of Stryker. It also voted in favour of purchasing the Stryker Preventative Maintenance program for forty stretchers, at a cost of $58,548 annually, plus HST, from Physio Control, and to dispose 33 used Stryker Power Pro XT stretchers to EMS Surplus Canada at a revenue of $132,000.

The Report to County Council notes in 2014, the County of Essex replaced all manually operated stretchers with the Stryker Power Pro XT stretcher. At that time, the EMS service also started using Stryker Power Load lifting devices.

Continued from Page 2

The original stretchers have come to the end of their life cycle, EssexWindsor EMS Chief, Bruce Krauter, said. He added the purpose of switching to these stretchers was to reduce the rate of neck, back, and shoulder injuries in paramedics, as a result of stretcher use. Since using these stretchers, he said there has been a reduction in those types of injuries by around 90 percent.

Krauter said EssexWindsor EMS appreciates the investment the County puts in, and the support of County Council, which ensure needed equipment can be obtained.

8 I News Essex Free Press

I Thursday, March 26, 2020

WECHU public health updates related to Coronavirus (COVID-19) - as of Tuesday, March 24,10a.m. submitted to EFP The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit continues to work with the Ministry of Health, local health care providers, and municipal partners to monitor and coordinate the response to COVID-19 as the situation evolves in the province and the community. Protecting the health and wellbeing of the residents of Windsor and Essex County remains our top priority.

- To date, we have 3 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Windsor-Essex.

- Overall, 500 individuals have been tested for COVID-19; and 329 tests are pending.

- There are 2,091 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Canada and 503 cases in Ontario, with 6 deaths What is happening locally?

In a memo to the healthcare system, Dr. Williams, Chief Medical Officer of Health, identified the need in high-risk circumstances for healthcare workers that work in multiple settings to “coordinate arrangements for staff to only work in one institution.” Health risks related to COVID-19 are most severe among individuals over the age of 60 and individuals with compromised immune system due to underlying medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, cardiovascular disease. The risk of severe illness due to COVID-19 and the

mortality rate is highest among these groups. Patients in Acute care and Long Term Care facilities are among the most vulnerable to COVID-19 due to the age of the populations they serve, existing and underlying medical conditions of patients and the difficulty in completely isolating from others. In light of the vulnerability of patients in these settings and the risk of spread of COVID-19, Dr. Wajid Ahmed is strongly recommending that all healthcare workers especially those who work in Long Term care homes and are employed in multiple settings restrict to their work to one institution during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Current Provincial Guidance & Restrictions The province is providing guidance, recommendations and restrictions on a regular basis to public health. As of March 18th, 2020, under the provincial Emergency Act, the following orders are in place until March 31st: • Anyone traveling outside of Canada should self-isolate for 14 days upon return.

If symptoms develop during self-isolation, including fever and/or cough call public health at 519-258-2146 ext. 1420.

• Closure of all Ontario Parks to visitors • Closure of all licenced child care centres • Closure of all public schools (Until

April 6th) • Closure of all public libraries • Closure of all facilities providing indoor recreational programs • Closure of all private schools as defined in the Education Act • Closure of all Theatres and movie theatres • Closure of all concert venues • Closure of all Casinos (until further notice) • Closure of all bars and restaurants, except to the extent that such facilities provide takeout food and delivery • Closure of all non-essential workplaces • Long Term Care, Retirement Facilities, Hospice, and residential care facilities only permit essential visitors and actively screen visitors for symptoms and travel history, excluding entry if failed screening • Suspension of all non-essential travel outside of Canada**details to be announced • Social distancing (2 Metres) Additionally, all organized public events of over 50 people are prohibited.

These orders will remain in place until March 31, 2020, when the province will reassess for an extension or end the closures. Orders are being actively enforced.

If you think you are sick Symptoms of COVID-19 Those who are infected with COVID-19 may have little to no symptoms. You may not know you have symptoms of COVID-19 because they are similar to a cold or flu.

Symptoms may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to COVID-19.

Symptoms have included: • fever • cough • difficulty breathing • pneumonia in both lungs Self-Assessment If you are having difficulty breathing or experiencing other severe symptoms, call 911 immediately. Advise them of your symptoms and travel history.

The WECHU encourages the public to follow credible sources for information about COVID-19. The WECHU monitors and updates our website daily. For up to date facts visit www.wechu.org Visit Ontario’s website: www.ontario. ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19 or contact your primary care provider or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 if you’re experiencing symptoms.

Please do not visit an assessment centre unless you have been referred by a health care professional.

Thursday, March 26, 2020 I

Community I 9

Essex Free Press

Abode Respite Service secures new home in Essex Centre - this transition will allow for overnight respite options hear from you. This is brand new to us and our members and we want to make sure it is the best service it can be.”

Currently, the local organization can only offer daytime and evening respite services from Brooker Baptist

Woodslee home in April of 2017. She founded the businesses in memory of her little sister, Hannah, who had cerebral palsy and passed away at the age of ten.

“The whole idea for Abode was for Hannah,”

Continued on Page 19

Photo submitted: Heather McCann, Founder and Executive Director of Abode Respite Services, celebrates the lease of a new home in Essex Centre that will eventually allow this service to offer 24/7 respite care to its clients.

by Sylene Argent Abode Respite Services, a non profit organization dedicated to providing out-of-home respite services to adults and inclusive community programming to people of all abilities, has secured a residential home to rent, located in the heart of Essex Centre.

The new space will allow this service to offer its current daytime and evening respite services and allow for the addition of overnight and 24/7 temporary respite options.

Overnight respite is an option that has limited availability

Church in Cottam. Its space there has been set up to be like home.

“Abode’s mission has always been to create a home-away-fromhome for our members,” McCann said.

The service began from McCann’s

in the community, but there is a high demand for this service, Heather McCann said, who is the Executive Director.

Abode will receive the keys to the new rental unit at the end of the month and it is hoped the service will be moved into the new space by mid-April.

From there, the service expansion will be rolled out in phases, including evenings, weekends, and overnight. “Then, we will be open 24/7,” she said.

McCann said that typically, respite services are done in the home,

but this is redefining the traditional care model.

Adobe, McCann said, has been looking for an appropriate home since last summer. “We had to make sure the house was right for us. We want to include members and be active in the community.

Being able to walk to amenities offers independence,” she said.

“The house is wonderful and has all we need.”

If anyone has any suggestions on how the service should be delivered, McCann encourages them to reach out. “We would love to

10 I Activity Page Essex Free Press

I Thursday, March 26, 2020

Exercise The Mind!

With a few puzzles and activities for readers of all ages!

Kids! Colour The World

Solutions on page 13

Enjoy this simple colouring activity using your own colour choices and imagination or colour match by number for a different kind of challenge. ENJOY! SUGGESTED COLOURS 1 = GREEN 2 = BROWN 3 = SKIN 4 = BLUE 5 = YELLOW 6 = PINK 7 = RED 8 = ORANGE

Thursday, March 26, 2020 I

Notice I 11

Essex Free Press

Notice to Readers Please Bear With Us - We’re Doing Our Best We are living in trying times, facing unique challenges.

Necessary measures have been put in place to help slow the current pandemic.

These necessary measures have put stress on our lives – socially and economically.

We are living during a time of social isolation, feeling cut off from our community, our neighbours, and even our own families.

Here, at the Essex Free Press, we are doing our best to keep our community connected by sharing our community’s news. And we are coping with the unique challenges of doing so at this current time. We are constantly looking at ways to protect our workers, our advertisers, and all our readers as we continue to do our job.

As a result, we are seriously limiting our office hours. The office is currently closed to foot traffic. Business will be conducted by telephone and email.

We are reviewing our delivery methods, thinking of ways to deliver the Free Press to your door, while protecting our delivery personnel and you. Schedules and methods may be unique. We urge you to go online and read the newspaper there, if one was not delivered to your business or residence.

We know it’s important to keep our readers informed, and we will continue to do so as long as it is possible.

We’re all in this together, doing our best to get through this current crisis.

It seems gloomy now, but soon we hope to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

P: 519-776-4268 | F: 519-776-4014 contact@essexfreepress.com | essexfreepress.com | issuu.com/essexfreepress

12 I Classifieds Essex Free Press

Classifieds

Fax: 519.776.4014

www.essexfreepress.com

_____________________

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FARMING _____________________ WANTED Farm Land to Rent Cash or Share Crop Call Jeff Siefker (cell) 519-796-1240 or (home) 519-776-9501.

SERVICES _____________________

SERVICES _____________________

MARTY’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIRS  Tune-ups, repairs, & service on snowblowers, riding lawn mowers, chainsaws, & more! 519-733-0986, (c) 519-965-5918.

4-tfn

KENNETH YARDWORKS  Spring Clean Up. Sod, mulch, eavestrough cleaning and repairs, power washing. Trees & bushes trimmed or removed. Loads to the dump. Fully licensed & insured. Free estimates. Call Kenneth: 519-982-0362.

SERVICES _____________________ INCOME TAX – Confidential preparation of Personal, Farm, and Senior Returns.

Free pick-up and delivery in Essex County. E-file or regular filing. Over 35 years’ experience. Call Tim Mousseau 519-975-2414 or toll free 1-855-9752414.

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CLASSIFIED RATES

PLACING A CLASSIFIED AD: Classified ads can be submitted in person, by phone or fax or email from Mon. to Thurs. 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. All classified and personal ads require payment, prior to print. We accept Visa | MasterCard | Debit | Cash | Cheque.

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS TUESDAY BY 10:00 AM

Phone 519.776.4268

11-tfn

_____________________ INCOME TAX PREPARATION: Good rates on personal, rental, and business returns.

E-file or paper file. Call Jeannette Grass (519) 776-7090.

5-12* _____________________

Word Ads - 25 words or less ........................ $6.00 + HST Extra words .................................................... 20¢/word Display Classifieds ....................................... Call for rates

Email: contact@essexfreepress.com

_____________________

STORAGE

_____________________ STORAGE FOR LEASE - in Essex. Approx.

1 acre outdoor, fenced-in storage. Call: 519-776-4875 for details.

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HELP WANTED

_____________________ HIRING! GENERAL LABOURERS WANTED  Please fax your resume to 519-723-2336.

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Continued on Page 13 _____________________

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HELP WANTED

I Thursday, March 26, 2020

HELP WANTED _____________________

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KARMA GARDENER  Providing raised beds, rain barrels, and gardening services to Essex & area. Booking 1 week out. Grow foods at home. Visit KarmaGardener.ca.

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AUCTIONS WARD'S & BUD HAYNES Spring Firearms Auction Saturday Apr. 18th at 10 A.M. 11802-145 Street NW, Edmonton, AB. Hundreds of Lots, Online Bidding, Antique & Modern Firearms, w w w. W a r d s A u c t i o n s . c o m . To Consign Call Brad Ward 780-940-8378, Linda Baggaley 403597-1095.

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Thursday, March 26, 2020 I

Community I 13

Essex Free Press

Classifieds...

Continued from Page 16 _____________________

HELP WANTED

_____________________ HELP WANTED: Aphria Inc. is looking for Greenhouse Production Associates to join their team. Duties include daily crop maintenance, harvesting, crop rotation, inventory counts, and cleaning of greenhouse. No public transportation available. Located in Leamington, ON. Compensation starts at $14.00/hour.

Full time hours Monday through Friday.

Please apply at careers@aphria.com or mail resume to P.O. Box 20009 269 Erie St. S. Leamington, ON N8H 3C4.

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REAL ESTATE

_____________________ Buying or selling a farm? Do you know the right questions and answers? Farm Experienced Realtor Carl Idzinski, Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty - Brokerage.

519-817-8891.

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WANTED

_____________________ 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 _____________________ WANTED  HOUSE CLEANING: Lady wanted for occasional house cleaning.

Please leave name and number at: 519818-4118.

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Sell It! Find it!

Rent It! Buy It! in The Classifieds

519-776-4268

Read us online & in print

www.essexfreepress.com issuu.com/essexfreepress 16 Centre St., Essex contact@essexfreepress.com

Kids can start planning now… A spring craft combining fantasy and fun

519.776.4268

Spring is a season of rebirth marked by flowers pushing through the soil and tender green leaf buds appearing on trees.

As adults begin tinkering in their gardens and clearing away the vestiges of another winter, children also can get into the spring gardening spirit - with a touch of whimsy mixed in. A fairy garden is the perfect project.

Fairies are mythical

beings of romance and folklore that appear in ancient stories passed down by various cultures. Diminutive in size, fairies are often depicted as spiritual or supernatural beings in possession of magical powers who live in close proximity to mortals.

Fairies tap into the imaginations of children, who may be enticed by fairies’ mischievous and/ or magical attributes. A

desire to capture fairies can inspire a great spring crafting project.

Fairy gardens can be constructed in just about any container and make an enchanting addition to a home landscape, patio or child’s bedroom.

It’s easy to get started today.

Begin by collecting the materials needed.

Materials will vary depending on each individual project, but some good suggestions include: • a container, such as a flowerpot, basket, wine barrel, or another vessel that will hold soil • potting soil • stones, pebbles and glass baubles • pea gravel • small plants, such as clover, moss and succulents • twigs • miniature garden accessories and figures Begin by filling the

container with the soil.

Then arrange the plants as desired while still in their individual potting containers to get an idea of the layout. When the design is established, use a spoon or small trowel to plant the greenery.

Now is the time when the whimsy can set in. The child can create a fairy home, a garden, walkways, and much more with natural materials. Many craft stores even sell ceramic and plastic fairy furnishings. Gravel and stones can add colour and extra appeal. Some peat moss or trailing Spanish moss can serve as the finishing touches.

Once completed, it’s time to wait to see if the fairies will come for a visit.

metro creative connection

Solutions... Continued from our Page 11 Activity Page Small Crossword Answers: Across 1. Everyone 5. Sag 6. Ache 7. Lean 8. Sky 9. Holy 10. Day Down 1. Easter 2. Eggs 3. Yearly 4. Eternity 8. Sol

14 I Personals / News Essex Free Press

I Thursday, March 26, 2020

Special Council meeting notes for Monday, March 23 t r a e H e h T m o Fr

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. _______________________________________________

IN LOVING MEMORY

_______________________________________________

Memorial verses available _______________________________________________

IN LOVING MEMORY

_______________________________________________

by Sylene Argent Delegation of Authority to the CAO during the COVID-19 emergency Essex Council voted to delegate authority to the CAO during the COVID-19 emergency. According to the associated Bylaw, this will help protect the health and safety of residents during this pandemic.

“Council considers it to be in the Town’s best interest to delegate its authority during a period when conducting Council meetings may not be feasible, subject to restrictions prescribed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and by this Bylaw,” the Bylaw notes.

The Chief Administrative Officer shall report to the Council all acts taken under the authority of this Bylaw at a Council meeting following the conclusion of the emergency.

Councillor Steve Bjorkman said, in relation to this Bylaw, people may think Council members are putting up their hands and are letting administration run things. That’s not what this delegation is about, he noted.

What is important, he explained, is that in the motion, it states when Council is unable to get together due to an emergency, the CAO is given power to make some decisions for Council that need to be made. There will still be Council meetings, whether that be online or in person. “We are not going to stop making decisions and meeting,” he said.

Councillor Joe Garon added those decisions the CAO could make would be on behalf of Council in an extreme case.

The Clerk has to be aware, and the decision has to brought to the attention of the Finance Department if costs are involved, he said.

A for instance Garon provided, included something along the lines of something dropped down on the CAO’s desk and there was not enough time to get Council together for a meeting or quorum could not be met due to sickness or the internet going down due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This Bylaw will continue to keep business of Town moving forward, he said, adding, it would not include non-emergency issues.

“It’s an unordinary situation. We don’t know how long it will be,” Garon said.

Councillor Sherry Bondy said residents elect Councillors to be their voice. She still wants to be active in decisionmaking. When residents understand what is going on, they feel better. People are looking for leadership right now, she added.

Amendment to Permit Electronic Participation for Council Meetings Council received Legal and Legislative Services’ Report, “Procedural Bylaw 1681 Amendment to Permit Electronic

Participation for Council Meetings,” and adopted a Bylaw to amend Procedural Bylaw 1681, so that electronic participation in a meeting can be permitted.

As part of this, Council also voted that public participation in Council Meetings be limited to livestream or other available electronic avenues, until the Provincial State of Emergency has expired, and also adopted Bylaw 1902, to amend Procedural Bylaw 1681, to permit electronic participation in a meeting.

The Report to Council notes members of Council, local Boards, and Committees may have the ability to participate electronically in meetings, subject to the provisions and requirements of the Procedural Bylaw.

Virtual meetings are a good positive step, Councillor Joe Garon said. They are safer if everyone is required to stay home.

Councillor Steve Bjorkman added that part of this Bylaw looks beyond the current Coronavirus emergency. In the future, if, for some reason, a Councillor can’t be present because of a personal emergency, that individual will be able to vote via electronic means and will count as part of quorum.

Property tax relief during COVID-19 pandemic Essex Council received correspondence from Laurie Brett, a local commercial property owner. She asked that Council consider property tax relief.

Council approved waiving penalties and interest through to, and including, April 30. And will review the situation in and around 20-days. At that time, Jeff Morrison, Director of Corporate Services/Treasurer, said Council will see if anything else needs to be done moving forward. This measure is consistent with the other lower-tier municipalities in the region and will account for everyone, including residential, commercial, industrial, agriculatural, etc., he said Council to send letter to support elimination of time of use hydro rates during pandemic Councillor Sherry Bondy asked that Council support sending a letter to the Minister of Energy, Greg Rickford, to suspend time of use billing during the quarantine period as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The motion passed with a majority Council vote. In a recorded vote, Mayor Larry Snively, Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche, and Councillors Kim Verbeek, Joe Garon, Bondy, and Steve Bjorkman were in favour. Councillors Morley Bowman and Chris Vander Doelen were opposed Garon said he believes sending the letter is a good idea.

He hopes the message is heard at the provincial level and that it helps those staying home.

The letter will be sent to the Ontario Energy Board, the Premier, Essex MP Taras Natyshak, and all Ontario municipalities.

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OBITUARIES

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Voice Of Inspiration “Life is ten percent what you experience and ninety percent how you respond to it.” ~ Dorothy M. Neddermeyer

2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER!

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37 Main St East, Kingsville • 519-733-6554 ORDER ONLINE AT… queensauto.ca

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MAEDEL, Edna Amelia (nee Hines) - passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospice, London on Friday, March 20, 2020 at the age of 93. Beloved wife of the late Donald Arthur Maedel (2017). Edna is survived by her children, Nancy Bol of London, and Susan (Jack) Huber of Komoka; daughter-in-law Darlene (late Donald, 2017), Maedel of St. Thomas; by her grandchildren, Leslie Bol (Ben) of Vancouver, Ian Maedel (Tara) of Toronto, Jess Huber, Andrew Huber (Jennifer) all of St. Thomas; by her great -grandchildren Layka, Ethan, Avery of St. Thomas and baby Quinn of Vancouver; by her sister-in-law Audrey Morgan of Whitehorse, YK; her brotherin-law Keith Paul of Nashville TN; and by her many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her brothers Elmer (Helen), Howard (Iris), Edward (Dorothy), William (Violet), Kenneth (Marie), Don (Wilma); and sister Barbara (George).

Edna was born in Essex, Ontario, daughter of the late Edward Hines and Emma Ebbinghaus. She was a registered nurse, graduate of Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay, Ontario, a loved and loving wife, devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was an active member of St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Essex, Ontario for many years. Edna worked alongside her husband supporting his work in the soft drink industry and in land development. Cremation has taken place. Interment will take place in Greenhill Cemetery, Kingsville on a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to the Shawn Jackson Funeral Home, 31 Elgin Street, St. Thomas (519-631-0570). If desired, donations in memory of Edna can be made to St. Joseph’s Hospice. Personal condolences to the family can be made at www.sjfh.ca .

Thank you to the present and past staff at Manor Village for their genuine and compassionate care of Edna during the past three years. Thanks also to Dr. Malu and staff, LHIN, Saint Elizabeth RNs, Medical Priorities, Voyago, and the outstanding staff at St. Joseph’s Hospice who cared for Edna and her family making her final days peaceful.

What’s Going On...

APRIL 14 - ESSEX BLOOD DONOR CLINIC - Essex Centre Sports Complex, 60 Fairview Ave. W. From 2-7pm. For info: 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. Meetings held the last Wednesday of every month (no July & August) @ 6:30p.m. at Colasanti’s. Look us up on Facebook for updates.

Thursday, March 26, 2020 I

Community Hub I 15

Essex Free Press

Brooker News submitted by Ruth Newman

Our anniversary dinner has been postponed until a later date.

Please remember in prayer the many shut-ins, and those in nursing homes.

sponsorship by:

Holy Name of Jesus Church

Fresh food. Friendly neighbours 191 Talbot St. S., Essex

519-776-4255 Salvation Army Essex Church submitted by Carolyn Barnett

All Salvation Army public services across Canada have been cancelled until April 30th. This means there will be no Sunday Family Worship Services, no SA Connections and Bible Study and no Messy Church.

The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program on Thursdays has also been cancelled.

Our Food Bank will operate by appointment only. Please call Vicki at:

Please Recycle this paper

519-776-4628 to make arrangements.

Please keep in your prayers, all who are affected, in any way by COVID-19.

Woodslee United Church submitted by Sue Holman

There will be no Sunday Services until further notice.

Stay safe and remember God Loves You.

Bethel-Maidstone United At this time, all church services and activities will be suspended until further notice.

You can find us on the web at www. bethelmaidstone.com.

Our email address is bmuc@xplornet.ca and the office number is (519) 723-2284. Our address is 933 Talbot Road, Maidstone (just off Manning Road at Cosy Corners).

Essex United Church Because of concerns from the COVID-19 Virus, our Weekly Sunday Services, as well as all activities, have been cancelled at Essex United.

All weekend Masses are cancelled until further notice. The Church is open during the day for quiet prayer.

Daily Masses continue as well as Adoration on Tuesdays.

All youth programs (QUEST, EDGE, Life Teen and COR) are cancelled until further notice. All K of C and CWL meetings are cancelled. For up to date news check out our website at www.hnj.dol.ca.

The CWL is collecting toiletries for the homeless during Lent.

Choir members are needed for funeral Masses. No experience necessary. Please contact Lauretta at 519-776-6236.

If you have moved or got rid of your landline, please let the parish office know in order to keep an up to date parishioner list. Please remember to drop off your Foodland grocery tapes, cancelled stamps, and leftover eyeglasses at the designated file drawers at the Info table.

Paquette News submitted by Amy Hartley

We have unfortunately made the decision to temporarily suspend public Worship Services until Wednesday, April 8 when a decision will be made about the possibility of a change.

Cancellation will include Redeemer Soup Day on March 22nd and the Redeemer Pasta Dinner on Saturday, April 4th.

St. Stephen has meat pies still available. Contact Marion at: 519-2571945.

Redeemer’s Sweetie Pies -frozen fruit

pies are available - Contact Amy: 519919-0094.

St. Paul’s Church

Anglican

At the instruction of the Bishop of Huron, all public services and gatherings at the church have been suspended until further notice, please call 519-776-7711 for more detail or follow our facebook page for prayer and worship resources/ videos. Stay safe and God Bless.

Please visit our website at www. stpaulstrinity.org or our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/stpaulsessex.

You can also reach us at 519-776-7711 or by email at office@stpaulstrinity.org.

We’re located at 92 St Paul Street in Essex (corner of St Paul and Brien, behind Essex Appliance.

Essex Christian Reformed Church submitted by Beverley Van Huizen

Churches are a place where people gather. During this time, we are following what the government is asking all of us to do and cancel church services and activities for the next few weeks.

This will include our monthly Free Movie Night Event, GEMS & Cadets nights. We do encourage all to keep in contact with each other through telephone calls or texting.

If you would like to live stream a worship service see: www. chathamgrace.com. The service will begin at 10:00 am. During these

uncertain times, let us keep calm and focus our eyes looking to our Risen King!

Visit Essex CRC online to listen to a past sermon or two. www.essexcrc.ca.

Maidstone Cross submitted by Wendy Cunningham

All weekend Masses have been cancelled but daily Masses continue.

Please stay home if you are not well.

The Lenten Card Parties are done for the year. Please remember to remove all winter decorations from your loved one’s grave at St. Mary’s Cemetery by March 31st.

Please keep in your prayers and all the people who are sick, shut in and in Hospice.

Harrow United Church submitted by Larry Anderson

We warmly welcome you to Harrow United Church! Please note that due to concerns over the current Virus, there will not be a service on Sunday, March, 29th.

Please visit our website for updated

messages.

Our Minister, Rev. Darrow Woods along with our HUC faith community, sincerely welcome you to join us!

Please find information about Harrow United Church on our website at www. harrowunited.org.

Golden Year’s Golf Report

As you know the Federal and Provincial governments have been busy trying to get the economy, Health Care, etc in place to deal with the COVID 19 Pandemic.

Given that our members are considered ‘seniors’ and meeting as a group, there would be an increased threat of one or more of us contracting the disease.

Our next possible date for golf will be April 16. We will communicate any changes to that schedule with you.

Meanwhile, we can all do what we can to assist by practicing ‘social distancing’.

Voice Of Inspiration “We discover our greatness when we find ourselves in a situation bigger than we are and we manage to grow and become bigger than the situation.” ~ Luigina Sgarro

16 I Business Directory Essex Free Press

I Thursday, March 26, 2020

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Thursday, March 26, 2020 I

News / Business Directory I 17

Essex Free Press

Tentative agreement reached between Province and ETFO, OECTA

by Sylene Argent On Friday, Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education for the Province of Ontario, stated on Ontario Newsroom, “Our Government is pleased to announce a tentative agreement has been reached between the Crown, ETFO [Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario] teachers and education workers, and the school boards trustees’ associations.

“This tentative ETFO agreement builds further momentum for deals and progress that students deserve, following last week’s tentative agreement signed with the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association [OECTA],” Lecce continued.

“This has been a very prolonged and difficult bargaining process,” ETFO President, Sam Hammond, stated in a news release posted on etfo.ca. “We are very grateful for the support and unwavering solidarity of our members, and the public who have continued to stand up for public education and the supports that our students and educators need now and in the future.”

Hammond added that, “While ETFO’s Provincial Executive has endorsed the terms of these tentative central agreements, the decision to accept them ultimately rests with ETFO’s 83,000 members.”

The details of the agreement remain confidential until ratified. In the meantime, ETFO has agreed to

suspend all job action while awaiting ratification of the deal.

On March 12, Liz Stuart, President of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association stated on catholicteachers.ca that, “OECTA has reached a tentative agreement with the Ontario Catholic School

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18 I Opinion / News Essex Free Press

I Thursday, March 26, 2020

Tentative agreement reached between Province and ETFO, OECTA...

Continued from Page 17

1959 Monarch at All-Ford Car Show

File photo of educators while on strike earlier this month.

1959 Monarch hardtop at the Essex Railway Station last June.

Recently featured in this column was the 1960 Monarch 2-door hardtop owned

by Joe Romanowski of Windsor, Ontario. It was on display at the third annual AllFord Car Show at the historic Essex Railway Station last June.

Parked beside Joe’s 1960 Monarch was a 1959 Monarch 2-door hardtop, also owned by Joe. The last time I saw a ’59 and ’60 Monarch side-by-side was sixty years ago at the Donway Ford dealership in Toronto. It was the fall of ’59 and a ’59 Monarch was being removed from the showroom to make way for a brand new 1960 model.

No Monarchs were built for 1958 to help the sales of Edsel in its first year of production. But Edsel sales were a disappointment and the Monarch was brought back for 1959 to give Ford dealers a car to sell in the medium-priced field.

The revived Monarch was named Monarch Mark II, proudly displayed on the grille frame with ads describing the revived Monarch as “the Mark of distinction on Canadian roads.”

Three series were available, including the new top-of-the-line Sceptre, the biggest Monarch ever. It was also the most powerful of all Monarchs with a 430 cubic inch V8 producing 345 horsepower. The other two series were Lucerne and Richelieu. The Monarch was built only in Canada and was based on the Mercury.

The Monarch outsold the Edsel by two-to-one in 1959, but Monarch sales were still down compared to pre-Edsel sales. The one-year absence of the Monarch may have prompted potential buyers to wonder how long it would be available.

As it turned out, the last Monarch was built in 1961 because the price of the Ford Galaxie was entering the medium-price field and it made no sense to have two cars in the same price range in the same showroom.

Joe Romanowski found his 1959 Monarch near Niagara Falls in 1993 and brought it home. It was sold new in Tillsonburg, Ontario.

The Fourth Annual AllFord Car Show will be held at the historic Essex Railway Station on Friday, June 5.

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

Trustees’ Association and the Government of Ontario on central terms for a new collective agreement. Details of the agreement remain confidential pending ratification.”

Catholic teachers will participate in a provincewide vote on April 7 and 8. Effective immediately, all OECTA strike action

is suspended during the ratification process.

Also on March 12, Lecce stated, on Newsroom Ontario, that “Our Government achieved our foremost priority - landing a good deal with a teachers’ union that advances the priorities of students and parents.

“We are pleased to

announce a tentative agreement has been reached between the Crown, OECTA, and the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association, the first agreement with a teachers’ union in this round of collective bargaining, that will ensure stability for our kids and their parents,” Lecce stated.

Thursday, March 26, 2020 I

Community I 19

Essex Free Press

Food Bank in need of financial donations as needs rise during Coronavirus pandemic to help these individuals and hopefully have enough for our regular clients,” Gerry Belanger said, who is on the volunteer Board of Directors of the Essex Area Food Bank. “We could use financial help in order to purchase meat for everyone.”

Currently, the Essex Area Food Bank is working on reduced hours from, what was

8:30-1:00 pm to 8:3011:45 am, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Anyone in need of help, or in a position to provide some financial assistance, can call the Essex Area Food Bank’s volunteers

at 519-800-2340 during those hours to make arrangements.

“We will continue as long as my volunteers feel that it is safe,” Belanger added.

Abode Respite Service secures new home in Essex Centre...

Continued from Page 9

File photo of some of the many volunteers associated with the Essex Area Food Bank.

by Sylene Argent Volunteers with the Essex Area Food Bank have barely had time to catch their breath as they just finished settling into their new facility, in the basement of Essex

United Church, and are already faced with a new challenge.

As some area employers have temporarily stopped production to held minimize the spread of the

Coronavirus, Essex Area Food Bank volunteers are seeing those employees, within a couple of weeks of their jobs being put on hiatus, and they are asking for help.

“We are going to have

McCann said, adding her family knew that as Hannah got older, she would require a home that could provide her with the supports she would need.

It is hoped the 24/7 service Abode is reaching to offer, McCann said, will help families in need of overnight respite services as there is still around a 20-year waiting list for people with special needs to find permanent housing with supports.

Everything Abode has done to date has been with an aim to offer the 24/7 respite service. “We thought this would be way in the future,” she said.

On February 1, 2019, Abode was incorporated as a Non-Profit organization. McCann is now working on obtaining charitable status.

For more information about Abode Respite Services, log onto www. aboderespite.ca

20 I News Essex Free Press

I Thursday, March 26, 2020

Government investing in Ontario’s Greenhouse Industry Ontario Supporting a more competitive business environment by helping the sector to innovate submitted to EFP The Ontario government recently announced an investment of up to $4.5 million towards new and innovative projects that will help the province’s greenhouse sector be even more competitive, better market its safe, top-quality produce and further protect our environment.

Funding will be provided through a new program intake under the streamlined Greenhouse Competitiveness and Innovation Initiative (GCII). The new intake will focus on key areas identified by the sector where government support will help drive greater industry innovation and economic growth. The program will target projects in three categories: • Sector biosecurity • Environmental stewardship • Production and market development.

“Ontario’s greenhouse sector is an important and growing part of our province’s agri-food industry, providing us with high-quality produce

year-round and supporting thousands of jobs in our province,” said Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “By investing in innovative greenhouse projects, we are helping the sector to meet increasing consumer demand and ensure the industry’s success well into the future.”

“I would like to thank the Minister and the government on behalf of the greenhouse sector.

This is an important announcement that offers new tools and support,” said Jan VanderHout, President of the Ontario Greenhouse Alliance. “We look forward to working with the provincial government to ensure the Ontario greenhouse vegetable and floriculture sectors remain competitive into the future by strengthening investment in Ontario, creating local jobs, and continuing to provide fresh, healthy product for Ontarians yearround.”

“The Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable

Growers very much appreciate the ongoing support of the Minister and the government for our sector,” said George Gilvesy, Chairperson of Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers. “This program will support Ontario’s greenhouse growers continuing to invest in innovation to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and inputs while maintaining a productive and competitive crop.”

“Ontario’s flower farmers continue to support the growth of the province’s economy by creating jobs and increasing exports. The GCII presents a significant opportunity to increase the ability for Ontario’s greenhouse community to thrive, and further enhance Ontario’s economy,” said Jan Van Zanten, President of Flowers Canada Ontario.

“Flowers Canada Ontario is very pleased with today’s announcement. We believe that this is another great example of Ontario’s strong commitment to agricultural growth.”

The application intake

for the Greenhouse Competitiveness and Innovation Initiative is now open to eligible greenhouse organizations and partnerships. The initiative will continue to be administered by the Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC).

Quick Facts • The Greenhouse Competitiveness and Innovation Initiative is a cost-share program delivered by the Agricultural Adaptation

Council and funded by the Ontario government.

• Ontario’s greenhouse sector continues to expand at an annual rate of four to five percent, with greenhouses making up a total of 5,147 acres across the province.

• In 2018, Ontario greenhouse vegetable and flower growers combined had farm sales of $1.5 billion.

• The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs estimates

that approximately 65,000 direct jobs and $2.9 billion direct GDP can be attributed to Ontario’s greenhouse vegetable and floriculture industry value chain, including farm, processing, and retail in 2018.

• Greenhouses are located across the province, but the majority are in Essex and Chatham Kent counties and in the Niagara region.