by Sylene Argent The staff members at Iler Lodge had their spirits lifted again last Thursday afternoon as they received specially made gift baskets in recognition of their efforts during the COVID-19 emergency. The baskets included a variety of items, such as a bottle of wine, lip balm, and treats. Mayor Larry Snively organized the gift basket arrangement, which had support from many area businesses. In addition, many local Councillors and volunteers offered to help deliver the baskets and show appreciation to the frontline healthcare and other essential workers. Snively said providing the gift baskets was an important gesture to show local healthcare workers that their efforts are appreciated. In addition to the gift baskets, Snively and Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche provided the staff members with $100 worth of coffee. Krystal LaBonte, Executive Director of Iler Lodge, said the generous gifts, “Mean the world to the staff. We will never forget this.” The majority of the staff members who work at Iler Lodge, LaBonte said, live within the Town of Essex, so it was nice for them to know their community supports them. Additional gift baskets were later dropped off at Harrowood in Harrow to support staff there. Last Tuesday morning, Councillor Kim Verbeek organized a drive-by that had a long motorcade of vehicles pass by Iler Lodge, with horns honking and signs with words of inspiration in view, to show the staff members their efforts are appreciated. LaBonte said the staff members spoke highly of the effort and read every comment made on social media pages about the event.
