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Staff removed from town properties, questions remain
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
By Ron Giofu Some questions have been answered, yet others are still outstanding after three staff members were asked to leave town properties last week. There may be more answers coming later this week, but Mayor Aldo DiCarlo said Tuesday morning he couldn’t release much more than he did last week. However, he added more news may be coming in the coming days. “As of now, I don’t have anything I can say,” he said Tuesday morning. The mayor added “at this point, there is no further information I can give” but indicated there could be more news coming “shortly.” An in-camera meeting was held Monday night but DiCarlo did not confirm whether the item was discussed, stating it was against the Municipal Act if he had done so. DiCarlo released a statement last Wednesday afternoon regarding the situation. The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment attended town properties Aug. 9 and DiCarlo confirmed those properties were Amherstburg town hall and the Libro Centre but there was more information he indicated he still could not release. “As most people are aware, the Police Service attended some Town properties on Monday,” DiCarlo’s
The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment attended Amherstburg town hall (pictured) and the Libro Centre due to three staff members leaving the properties. Susan Hirota, the recently hired town solicitor, has been temporarily assigned the duties of the chief administrative officer. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
Aug. 11 press release read. “I want to be very clear that their attendance had nothing to do with any criminal activities on the part of any Town employees. Any affected staff remain employed with the Town. We are presently doing our due diligence in reviewing some issues that were brought to our attention. The Town continues all operations under the leadership of Susan Hirota, in-house legal counsel for the Town, who has been temporarily assigned the CAO’s duties. The remaining management team is assisting with any other duties as needed with Council’s full support.” Beyond that, DiCarlo said he could not outright name the employees involved. He did not mention the name of CAO John Miceli directly though did say Hirota is acting CAO.
“Obviously, we can’t discuss HR issues publicly. Naming people would cross the line,” said DiCarlo. The mayor added he could not provide additional details on what the issues in question are at this time. “I can’t get into what the issues are,” DiCarlo said last Wednesday, noting that could lead to other human resources matters. Police were called to the town properties to assist, he added, believing there are times when police can manage a situation “a little better.” The mayor also stated he could not say who brought the issues forward or how long the issues have been of concern. He said no member of council was involved. Continued on Page 2
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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
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More answers possible this week
Singers in the park
Continued from Page 1 Const. Darius Goze, a media relations officer with the Windsor Police Service, confirmed there was a police presence Aug. 9 but referred all other questions to the town. “It is not a police matter,” DiCarlo stated last Wednesday. He didn’t confirm whether the review of the issues is being done internally or by a third-party. “No one was arrested,” he said. “No handcuffs, nothing like that.” DiCarlo added the timing of the matter didn’t have anything to do with the cancellation of the Aug. 9 council meeting. A report on the fire stations and the potential locations thereof was added to that agenda and DiCarlo indicated council members had last minute questions and he believed that report would likely have been deferred. Bob Rozankovic, head of the Amherstburg Taxpayers Association and a former Amherstburg Police Services Board chair, noted he didn’t have any information on what exactly was happening, but said there have been council observers who have raised concerns for various reasons in recent years. “None of us have the information we’d like to have at this time and probably for very good reasons,” he said. “It’s very unfortunate for Amherstburg that we are finding ourselves in this position.” Rozankovic said he hopes the matter gets cleared up and acknowledged the three people involved have a right to privacy. He believed it would be “foolish” to judge things too quickly and awaits what happens and what the end result will be. DiCarlo added while he appreciates people wanting to know more details, “we all have a fiduciary responsibility to the town. I am acting under legal advice and if I didn’t follow it, it could impact the taxpayers.”
The music in the King’s Navy Yard Park that takes place every Saturday and Sunday afternoon at 4 p.m. (weather permitting) has included a variety of performers in recent weeks. Those performers have included the Leave Those Kids Alone band (below), Alexa Carrochia (top right) and Allison Brown (top left). This weekend’s performers are scheduled to be Musica (2-3:30 p.m. & 5:30-7 p.m.) and Rachel Cribbey (4 p.m.) on Saturday and Fresh Breath on Sunday at 4 p.m. Kevin Jarvis performs Aug. 28 while Michael Karloff is scheduled for Aug. 29. For a schedule of performers, visit www.visitamherstburg.ca. RTT Photos by Ron Giofu
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Wednesday, August 18, 2021 – River Town Times – 3
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Essex County to press for review of regional social housing costing formulas
By Ron Giofu Essex County council has not only approved moving ahead with eight affordable housing units in Leamington, but they also want a review of social housing funding formulas for the entire region. County council approved the pre-commitment of $48,000 in its operating budget for the next 20 years support what is known as the Round 2 Rapid Housing Initiative project for The Bridge, which would help fund the creation of four units supported through the Bridge’s youth case management services and another four units to serve priority populations as rental housing. However, while county officials were supportive of the creation of the units in Leamington, they also want much more done across the entire region. “In the 22 years since the funding formulas for Ontario Works, Child Care and Social Housing were arbitrated, the need for new affordable housing units has increased within the region, however, there Essex County council discusses the issue of affordable housing and the desire to work with the City of Windsor on the matter. The issue has not been any concerted discussions proposing was discussed during county council’s Aug. 11 meeting, which was held virtually. Screenshot a regional strategy to address affordable housing initiatives and no discussion on how both capital and operating costs of new have to take care of their residents. affordable housing units would be funded,” said director of council of council and “It’s not an easy solution,” added LaSalle Mayor Marc Bondy. “We don’t have community services/clerk Mary Birch. “It is the hope that more capital funding enough money in the county (to deal with the issue) and we don’t have enough opportunities, such as the RHI, will make it possible to develop more affordable money in the city.” housing projects within the region, however, in order to meet tight funding Doing anything they can to enhance the message and show data on the matter application deadlines in the future and to be financially prepared to fund future was promoted by Kingsville Mayor Nelson Santos, noting there is an immediate affordable housing operating costs, it is the opinion of County Administration need. that regional discussions need to commence to develop a long-term strategy to Jelena Payne, commissioner of community development and health services build and fund capital and operational costs of additional affordable housing with the City of Windsor, said “the way the system is designed is for the masses.” units throughout the region. It is also the opinion of County Administration She noted that many times, the pathway to housing can be through shelters but that, after twenty-two years, it would be appropriate to review the existing that is a temporary solution until housing is found. funding agreement for regional social housing costs and develop a new cost Debbie Cercone, executive of housing and children’s services with the City of sharing agreement or addendum to the existing agreement that addresses cost Windsor, said the county’s stock of housing units has risen by 330 in recent years sharing principles for new regional units and regional housing and homelessness and there is a recognition in Windsor that Essex County is growing. initiatives.” OPEN In addition to supporting TUES-FRI 8:30-5 the Leamington development, SAT 8:30-4 county council’s motion further requested Windsor city council SUN 9-3 to support the commencement of CLOSED MONDAYS discussions of the development Serving the Community Since 1970 of a regional affordable housing strategy, including funding responsibilities, and that county council also request the city to support the start of discussions on the review of the 1999 social housing cost sharing arbitrated agreement “with a view to addressing cost sharing provisions for new regional units and regional housing and homelessness Prices in effect Thursday, August 19th to Wednesday, August 25th, 2021 initiatives.” Fresh Store Made Large Essex Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche said he tried to work with people facing housing difficulties in his municipality and while they worked in Essex, many ea Hot or Mild had to live in Windsor. Others had to scramble to find a couch to sleep on. “It was heart-wrenching to see what they were going through,” he said. Meloche added “there’s no accommodation for smaller communities out in the county.” lb Warden Gary McNamara stated more housing stock in the county is “overdue” and that he is disappointed that higher levels of government direct funding to Seasoned urban areas. He pointed out the county’s population is close to that of Windsor but “the county gets left out” with regards to funding sometimes. lb “It’s almost us versus them,” he said, as he called on Ottawa and Queen’s Park “to look at the bigger picture.” Marinated Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald believed the solution may have to “be ea driven by us” where local municipalities will have to do the work and then go to the city looking for funding. “We’re going to have to bang the table,” said MacDonald. 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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Golf cart operator faces series of charges A local man faces charges after allegedly travelling on a golf cart on a roadway. The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment say an officer was on routine patrol Aug. 6 around 3:05 p.m. when a person was observed travelling on a golf cart in the 9500 block of Malden Road. According to police, the 36-year-old was charged with not having an odometer, driving a motor vehicle with no permit and operating a motor vehicle with no insurance. The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment has asked that residents stay off the road if they are using a golf cart. Police say they have received complaints of people driving golf carts along roadways and in subdivisions and are asking people refrain from doing that. According to police, there are many Highway Traffic Act (HTA) offenses that a person could be charged with if found operating a golf cart on a roadway.
Climate change is a reason to keep local green space In response to Larry and Kathy Foley’s statements in the August 4th RTT edition; yes, keep our park spaces. Why? The answer - climate change. Keeping and expanding the number of trees and green spaces in our town will demonstrate our duty to mitigate climate change. The more our town concretes over green spaces, the more fuel we add to the damage from climate change like extreme heat, raging fires, and deadly floods. If we traded places with the residents of Lytton BC, I’m sure we’d think and act differently about our natural resources. I say, keep our green spaces for now and increase their numbers as we move forward. —Judy Palesh Amherstburg
Knife complaint
The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment are investigating a report of a male approaching a group of youth brandishing a knife. The alleged incident was reported at the temporary site of the Amherstburg Skateboard Park, located behind the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St. It reportedly occurred Aug. 10 around 7:47 p.m. The matter is still under investigation so anyone with information can contact police at 519-736-2252.
Proud General Amherst graduate responds to last week’s letter
Attempted B&E
RE: Changing the Name of General Amherst
Police are investigating an attempted break-and-enter at a property in the 400 block of Front Road North. According to police, someone tried to break into a gate at the site but no entry was gained. Video footage of the alleged suspect was gained, police add, and that the vehicle involved was a burgundy Ford Edge. The matter remains under investigation. It was reported to police Aug. 7 around 9:42 p.m.
Minor accidents
A single-vehicle motor vehicle accident occurred in the area of County Road 9 (Howard Ave.) and Alma St. the morning of Aug. 10. Around 3:43 a.m., police say the driver lost control of the vehicle due to wet conditions and sustained minor injuries. There were no charges. •Motorists are encouraged to watch for deer on area roadways as another vehicle versus deer accident occurred last week. It was reported Aug. 7 around 6:30 a.m. in the area of Concession 4 North and North Side Road. —All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment
I am a graduate student from General Amherst High School and was one of the last to take the grade 13 (OAC) program back in the 1990’s. I live in Amherstburg, and have a deep love both local and western history. We must make a distinction between “General Amherst High School” and “General Amherst.” The history of General Amherst was much more complex than some believe. General Amherst was fighting a war with the British, in a time where war rules were different than our own. Tecumseh himself even fought for the British in the War of 1812. Adding to the complexities includes the facts that history has taught us that no one party is guilty and no one party is innocent of atrocities, and the natives and the British both were involved in tragic history in the past. The recent trend of “cancel culture” only seeks to damage the name of Amherstburg and General Amherst and erase them from history. I was taught when I was a boy from my experiences at Amherstburg Public School and General Amherst High that the history of this town was founded with the grand heritage of being part of the Underground Railroad. Simply put, the name Amherstburg was part of the emancipation of slaves decades before the Civil War in the United States. In the 1990s, I was taught the full history of General Amherst and the War of 1812, both good and bad and his relations to the natives. This allows discussions for what history does-to learn from the past. I am honoured to be called a graduate of General Amherst. I had a great high school experience with the staff and principal. The teachers and staff may have changed since I went to school in the 90s, but they were teachers who cared about students, who cared about teaching, and who focused on the best in a student’s education. General Amherst High has been around for 100 years, and is known as the town’s mascot and for the many youth who have excelled at the school. All the schools in Amherstburg have a reputation for being great learning centres, not places of conflict, violence, poverty and low educational standards. In conclusion, the majority of Amherstburg residents who are proud of their role at General Amherst High School deserves to be recognized as saying, “Proud to call myself a student at General Amherst.” —Jason Nicholas Major Amherstburg
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Wednesday, August 18, 2021 – River Town Times – 5
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Federal election called for September 20
By Ron Giofu Canada will head to the polls Sept. 20 with the federal Liberal Party hoping to retain power while a good race is anticipated locally. Liberal leader Justin Trudeau, the incumbent prime minister, was given approval by Governor General Mary Simon to dissolve parliament and that has triggered the next federal election. Not all parties in the riding of Essex have a candidate as of yet, including Trudeau's Liberals. The main battle in Essex is a rematch of the 2019 election between Conservative candidate Chris Lewis and NDP candidate Tracey Ramsey. Ramsey had held the riding from 2015-19 before being upended by Lewis two years ago. Now, Ramsey is trying to return the favour and get her old job back. Beth Charron will represent the People's Party of Canada in the Essex riding. The Green Party has also yet to publicly announce a candidate in Essex and there are also no known candidates for other parties. The campaign machines were busy Sunday cranking out press releases and speeches of their leaders. “When Canadians needed our support during the global COVID-19 pandemic, we had their backs. We ensured they could continue to pay their bills, keep food on the table, and stay on their company’s payroll,” said Trudeau. “Now it’s time to hear their voices. Because the decisions that the government makes right now will define the future our kids grow up in – and Canadians deserve to have their say in shaping it. Together, we need to choose how we finish the fight against COVID-19, get the job done on vaccines, and build back a better tomorrow. That’s why we need this election.” The Liberals pledge to “do everything it takes – for however long it takes – to keep Canadians safe, healthy, and supported” as well as help Canadians find safe and affordable places to call home. They also promise a $10 a day child care plan and a “bold climate action that cuts pollution and builds a cleaner future for our kids and grandkids.” Trudeau's Liberals also state they want to “create a fairer and more equal Canada for everyone, and continue to walk the shared path of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.” They also state they want to build a “green recovery” from the COVID-19 pandemic that strengthens the middle class. “Canadians need a plan that will benefit everyone, but Erin O’Toole’s Conservatives only want to cut taxes for the wealthy and cut services for everyone else,” said Mr. Trudeau. The Conservative Party of Canada state they want
Liberal leader Justin Trudeau, seen here in a 2019 campaign stop in Windsor, was given approval by Governor General Mary Simon to dissolve parliament and that has triggered the Sept. 20 federal election. RTT File Photo
to recover one million jobs lost during the pandemic, enact new anti-corruption laws, secure mental health through a mental health action plan, secure Canadianmade medical supplies and balance the budget over the next decade. “This election is about who Canadians trust to secure their economic future, and secure the future for all Canadians,” said O’Toole. “We need a strong economy to support high wages for workers and get infrastructure built. We need a strong economy so that today’s Canadians can have confidence that tomorrow will be brighter for the next generation.” O'Toole stated Conservatives have “a detailed plan to get the economy surging in the right direction” for all Canadians. “There are five parties, but two choices. Canada’s Conservatives or more of the same,” said O’Toole. “The question for voters is, ‘who do you trust to secure your economic future?’” NDP leader Jagmeet Singh said Canadians are facing “bigger challenges than before.” “Justin Trudeau doesn’t want a majority so he can do more for people. He wants it so he can do even less,” said Singh. “I’m ready to fight for working people, to make the ultra-rich and big corporations pay their fair share, and to build a recovery that works for everyone.” Singh added: “After six years, we know a lot about Mr. Trudeau. He wants to look like he cares. He says the right thing but has no intention of doing it.
Calling an election two years early – in a pandemic – shows that he doesn’t want to follow through on his promises. And you will pay the price.” Singh believes the NDP fought to deliver more for people across Canada. New Democrats say Liberals cut pandemic supports for families and seniors who are struggling, failed to deliver on Trudeau's commitment to get clean drinking water to First Nations, and under Trudeau's leadership, Canada became the only G7 country whose carbon emissions went up. “We’re all looking forward to brighter days, but we’re also worried about the future.” said Singh. “After six years of Mr. Trudeau, life isn’t any easier for most of us. The only people who seem to be getting ahead are the billionaires who got richer in the pandemic. We need to build a recovery that works for all of us, not just those at the top.” Green Party of Canada Leader Annamie Paul calls for Canadians to “Be Daring!” “In order to confront the biggest challenges, and seize the greatest opportunities of our time, Canadians must embrace the possibility of cooperation and common ground,” said Paul. “Greatness is within reach, and greatness is what we will need as we tackle the climate crisis, and build back from the pandemic. Paul added: “This is a pivotal moment in history. Now, we have a chance to revitalize the economy with a robust green recovery plan that will transition Canadian workers to the clean economy of the future while forging a just society in which all Canadians can live with dignity.” The Green Party leader said wildfires, drought, heat and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic are reasons the election should not have been called. “Unfortunately public health has lost out to partisan ambition and common sense has lost to the quest for power. But here’s where I think those backroom operators are mistaken: Canadians have expressed a desire for change and a new direction. The climate crisis and the pandemic are top of mind, and the calculations and polling of the Liberals may well be their undoing,” she said. “This is an unwarranted and unwanted election and we shouldn’t be surprised if that doesn’t result in voter apathy. So while the backroom jockeying may have informed the Liberals’ decision making as they seek to secure a majority Paul believes the green economy of the future “is the greatest economic opportunity since the industrial revolution and is estimated to generate $3 trillion U.S dollars a year by 2030.” Continued on page 6
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County projected to be in surplus position at year’s end of just over $1 million By Ron Giofu
Essex County council is projected to have a seven-figure surplus at year’s end, according to its treasurer. Sandra Zwiers, the director of financial services/treasurer with the County of Essex, said they have actual results until the end of June and a projection until the end of 2021 forecasts a surplus of approximately $1,015,020. Zwiers stated in her report that her projections are predicated on “a number of significant assumptions” such as favourable resolutions to various outstanding wage-related matters within collective bargaining groups, winter control activities remaining within the five-year average, social services caseloads and social housing remaining favourable, no significant tax write-offs, stable returns regarding the county’s investment portfolio, and the impacts of COVID-19 remaining at projected levels for the rest of 2021. The county’s community services department is projected to have a $8,030 surplus but the Sun Parlour Home in Leamington is projected to have a deficit of $91,420, according to Zwiers’ report. “The operational cost pressures from COVID-19 remain significant. Staffing costs for co-horting, additional PPE, screening/swabbing and enhanced cleaning protocols are projected to continue through to the end of the year,” stated Zwiers. “The Ministry of Long-Term Care (MLTC) flowed support funds through a number of specific programs to offset pandemic related costs however funding announcements have only been confirmed to June. The projection assumes these costs will be funded to the end of the year by either additional MLTC grants or the use of the Corporation’s allocation of Safe Restart dollars.” EMS operations continue to be impacted by the response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, she added, with that department projected to have a $344,710 surplus. “Certain capital projects planned in the 2021 Budget will need to be deferred to 2022 due to ongoing pandemic related resource and vendor constraints. The deferral of these projects is anticipated to generate a net surplus of $241,410,” she noted. Zwiers added regarding EMS: “The Ministry of Health has confirmed pandemic related funding only to March 2021. The projection assumes all pandemic related operating costs to year end will be offset by provincial and/or federal funding either directly from the Ministry of Health or through the application of the Corporation’s Safe Restart funds.” There is neither a surplus or deficit projected for library services while general government is projected to have a $256,120 surplus. Zwiers reported the largest driver of the projected surplus for general government relates to the return on in-
Essex County council is projected to have a surplus, according to its director of financial services/ treasurer. Sandra Zwiers projects the surplus to be approximately $1,015,020 at year’s end. Pictured is the Essex County Civic Centre, where county operations are based. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
vestment within the county’s investment portfolio. There is a minor surplus for external commitments of $780, she reported. “The Corporation’s projected financial position is based on six months of activity with significant uncertainty regarding budget performance for Social Services, Social Housing, Emergency Medical Services, Sun Parlor Home, Infrastructure Services and outstanding contract/wage settlements and pay/internal equity adjustments. Variance from projection in any one of these operations could have a significant impact on the Corporation’s financial position for 2021,” Zwiers’ report added. “Additionally, COVID-19 levels in our region will continue to influence our operations and it is unknown how long these impacts will last. Financial Services, with the assistance of departments, continue to look for opportunities for reductions/cost savings and will carefully monitor operations and report accordingly.”
Lewis, Ramsey, Charron the local candidates so far Continued from Page 5 People's Party of Canada leader Maxime Bernier said “the past year and a half has been one of the most disastrous periods in recent Canadian history.” Bernier said “lockdowns will have killed a lot more people than they presumably saved. Because of job and business losses, anxiety and depression, postponed surgeries, domestic violence, drug overdoses. These lockdowns have destroyed large parts of our economy, especially small businesses.” He added “Trudeau used these lockdowns as a justification to launch a whole series of spending programs that we cannot afford, pushing our national debt to unprecedented levels.” Bernier added: “Under this government, we are
witnessing the most sustained, unprecedented series of frontal attacks against our prosperity, our rights and our freedoms in our lifetime. And it has all happened in less than 18 months. What will happen in another 18 months if this government is re-elected? We went from “two weeks to flatten the curve” to a segregated society in the blink of an eye.” The PPC leader called Erin O’Toole “wholly ineffective and cowardly,” adding “O’Toole was elected leader by pretending to be a true blue conservative. But his mask quickly fell. He’s just another lying, pandering, fake conservative who agrees with Trudeau on almost everything.” Bernier added “The Conservative Party of Canada is conservative in name only. Under O’Toole, it has
become just another left of centre party and betrayed its principled conservative supporters.” He called the NDP “a far left socialist party that promises to destroy our economy even faster than the Liberals” while the Green Party is torn between factions that “wants to destroy the modern industrial world” and and another “that’s obsessed with Israel.” Bernier believed people should vote PPC because “all the other options suck.” “If the PPC did not exist, nobody would talk about lockdowns and vaccine passports, mass immigration, censorship, climate alarmism, carbon taxes, unfair equalization, debt and inflation, identity politics, globalism, or respect for our Constitution,” he said.
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Wednesday, August 18, 2021 – River Town Times – 7
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Purdie family gathers at park named in their father’s honour, hope for its full preservation
By Ron Giofu Members of the Purdie family gathered at the park named in honour of their father and grandfather with the hope that it stays a park in its entirety. Jack Purdie’s seven children Sharon Schopf, Pat Levack, Kay Potter, Colleen Purdie, Dennis Purdie, Sue Gibbons and John Purdie were at Jack Purdie Park last Saturday taking photos near the park’s sign and hoping the entire piece of parkland is developed as such. They were of the belief that affordable housing can be developed elsewhere and they wanted the park to have recreational amenities, something they said should have been there from the beginning. “We’re trying to get as much information as we can about the park,” said John. “We’re learning something new every day.” Early plans for Jack Purdie Park included baseball diamonds, soccer fields and washrooms. John said he has spoken with neighbours who told him they had to pay towards the park’s development. The park was originally dedicated in 1998, complete with a parade, but little happened since. “It’s not that the town didn’t have the money,” said John. “It was ignored. Our trust was kind of broken.” The Purdie family lives in different areas, with Sharon and Kay now living in Alberta, and they wanted to come together at the park. Kay Potter, who is from Calgary, said there was a case there
where residents fought against a change to a park and hoped that her father’s park will be saved in its entirety here due to “all of the stuff he did for this town.” “How can you take away a place that’s dedicated to a person?” she asked. Jack Purdie was a World War II veteran who was shot in the line of duty. When he came back home to Amherstburg, he was a town councillor, chair of the parks committee, president of Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157, president of the Amherstburg Minor Baseball Association and president of what is now Unifor Local 89. John said many of those organizations as well as former town officials such as retired administrator Tom Kilgallin have sent in letters of support to keep the park in full and develop it recreationally. John said Essex County planning documents recommend all different types of housing, but he added it doesn’t say anything about taking away parks. He added that it was upsetting to the family that some in today’s administration didn’t know who their father was. “I think our history is more about the people,” said John. John added urban parks would be difficult to replace and hopes residents will put pressure on town council members “to do the right thing” and keep and develop the park as a recreational site. “We have other options for housing projects,” he said. “Don’t take away our parks.” The Purdie family has tried to be community minded “just like our dad,” John continued, noting he has coached
Jack Purdie’s children – Sharon Schopf, Pat Levack, Dennis Purdie, Sue Gibbons, Kay Potter, Colleen Purdie and John Purdie – joined their own children at Jack Purdie Park last Saturday afternoon. They want to see the park developed with recreational amenities, something they said wasn’t followed through upon after the park’s dedication in the 1990’s. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
while his brother Dennis went on to serve as Legion president. “It saddens me to see nothing being done here,” said Schopf, who now lives in St. Albert, Alberta. Schopf believes recreational amenities need to be placed at the park to boost usage. “I come here and look at this place every time I’m here,” she said. “It looks like it’s being ignored.” Gibbons recalled town council of the day passing the bylaw to dedicate the park in three readings in the same night when it was dedicated over 20 years ago. Since, she believed nothing that was ever promised was ever done. “Where’s the integrity of the town?” asked Potter. Levack, who lives in St. Joachim, recalled the sign being cleaned once and not much else happening. She added she
has been approached by people who told her how much their father meant to them based on his coaching. “We hope this stays a full park, not half of a park,” she said. Jack Purdie passed away in April 1988. The Town of Amherstburg presented nine concepts – five for H. Murray Smith Centennial Park and four for Jack Purdie Park – at an online public session in July. Some options were all parkland while others contained various levels of affordable housing. Regarding Jack Purdie Park, there were two all parkland options and two options where much of the southern portion of the park contained affordable housing developments. An online public survey wrapped up in early August. A second public meeting is planned for the fall. Recommendations would then go before town council after that.
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8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
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A total of 38,992 vaccinations were administered at the mass vaccination centre at the Libro Centre. The clinic closed to the public Aug. 7. For information on how to book and where to go for a COVID-19 shot, visit www.wevax.ca. Special to the RTT
Mass vaccination centre closes after almost 39,000 COVID-19 doses distributed By Ron Giofu The mass vaccination centre at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg has closed and the facility is being turned back into a recreation complex. The Libro Centre site administered almost 39,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines and had its last day of operations Aug. 7. The mass vaccination centre opened March 31, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) noted via press release, and the Libro Credit Union Centre Mass Vaccination Clinic first began offering vaccines to residents of Windsor and Essex County 70 years of age and older and continued to offer vaccinations to all eligible residents until they closed the site. WECHU chief executive officer, Nicole Dupuis acknowledged the town in a note of appreciation. “A sincere thank you to Mayor DiCarlo, the Town of Amherstburg’s administration, and the staff who provided a safe and welcoming space for residents to receive their vaccination. We have heard on numerous occasions about how organized and efficient the operations were at the Libro Credit Union Centre and recognize how much effort and skill it takes to organize something of this magnitude,” she stated. Amherstburg fire chief and the town’s community emergency management coordinator CEMC Bruce Montone said he is proud of the work that was done at the mass vaccination centre. “It was a sad day but a happy day,” said Montone, noting the clinic was open for 101 days. Montone said they were very pleased to help “save the lives” of people of across Essex County, as he said for every vaccine administered, it impacted many others as well and not just the person getting the shots. “The impact was historic, in my view,” said Montone. “Amherstburg is a community that stepped up once again and did their part at no cost to the local taxpayer.”
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Funds that the Town of Amherstburg outlaid are expected to be returned by the County of Essex or higher levels of government. For those looking to receive the vaccine, available sites and other information are provided at http:// www.wevax.ca. The mass vaccination at the Devonshire Mall location – within the former Sears store – is still open to the public. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit added that comprehensive information about COVID-19 vaccines including facts, FAQs, vaccination statistics, and more, can be viewed by visiting wechu.org. Members of the public can also subscribe to receive e-mail updates from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit about COVID-19 vaccines.
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A group of Seasons Amherstburg staff members and residents not only helped collect canned goods at the retirement home, they also board one of their buses and travelled down Richmond St. collecting goods for the June 27th Miracle as well. Submitted photo
Seasons Amherstburg gives back to local community through donations of canned goods By Ron Giofu
A local retirement community is highlighting its recent achievements with regards to helping others. Seasons Amherstburg took part in the “One Can Challenge,” a friendly companywide competition to see who can collect the most canned goods and non-perishable food items. Seasons Retirement Communities, through a press release sent by spokesperson Lara Banlaoi, said its retirement homes “across Ontario and Alberta are unwavering in their commitment to support the communities in which they operate year after year.” Seasons Amherstburg took part in the two-week challenge to collect the most cans of food for food banks within the area. Tamasin Dineen, general manager of Seasons Amherstburg, said they tied it in with the June 27th Miracle locally. “We raised 1,000 cans with the residents, families and staff,” she said. In addition to what was collected at Seasons Amherstburg itself, which was 378 cans and non-perishable food items, staff and residents loaded up their vehicles by going up and down Richmond St. the day of the June 27th Miracle. This year’s haul was donated to the June 27th Miracle with a $2,000 having been given to the Amherstburg Food Bank earlier this year. “Our staff, families and residents are amazing,” said Dineen. “Every time we have a fundraiser, everyone is on board.” Dineen added they had a lot of fun with it, noting music was playing, signs were posted and staff and residents enjoyed themselves. The top Seasons Retirement Communities donors were Seasons Stoney Creek with 1,462 cans, Seasons Brantford with 580 cans, and Seasons Milton with 475 cans. The results were announced about one week ago. “It’s always a competition of some sort,” said Dineen. “We are a very competitive group at Seasons. If it’s going to a good cause, we’re even more competitive.” The Seniorosity group, a collection of Seasons Amherstburg residents, was heavily involved. They do some philanthropy work in the retirement home and in the community, Dineen added. “They are always up for a challenge,” she said. Dineen added she was proud of the 60-plus staff members and the over 100 residents. “Amherstburg as a whole is an amazing community,” she stated. Since 2016, Seasons Retirement Communities has focused its corporate giving efforts on local food banks in the towns that residents and team members call home. To date, Seasons has donated more than $180,000 in funds and food to local food banks. Seasons is proud to do its part to support local communities, especially during this time of great need. “If it’s one can, it’s one can more,” said Dineen. “One can could make the difference.”
Wednesday, August 18, 2021 – River Town Times – 9
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Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy Show to return Oct. 3 By Ron Giofu Amherstburg will go “car crazy” once again in 2021. The Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show is scheduled to return to the downtown streets Oct. 3 after having to cancel last year’s event due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Scott Elliott - who is part of a five-person organizing committee with Steve Maluske, Richard Martin, Dino Gobbo and former chair Eleanor Renaud – said they realized it couldn’t be in July this year due to timing around public health restrictions but they now can plan for early October. Elliott said their date this year was chosen because they don’t want to compete with car shows in Belle River and Bothwell around that time and the fact they also can’t go too late into October. Elliott said they met with Mayor Aldo DiCarlo and tourism co-ordinator Kelly O’Rourke and, under the current guidelines, planned to proceed with the event. “We’re going to block off even more area so can spread it out a bit more,” said Elliott. The intention is to have the closure on Dalhousie St. extend southbound to Gore St. while the committee also hopes to use Bill Wigle Park in addition to Toddy Jones Park. Elliott said the spaces blocked off for vehicles will be wider in Toddy Jones in order to allow for more room to move. Organizers also hope to use more of Murray St. as a way of utilizing more space. Whether people have to wear masks at the event will depend on what the public health guidelines are at that point in the year, he added. “There’s still going to be guidelines we have to follow,” said Elliott. Depending on the direction of the pandemic and how the Delta variant is impacting the region and the province, there is a chance the show could be delayed or cancelled again. However, organizers are hopeful they will have a successful event and continue to plan
The Amherstburg Gone Car Crazy show is scheduled to return to the downtown streets of the town Oct. 3 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Pictured is a view of Dalhousie St. during the 2019 show. RTT File Photo
for a major car show. Ashley Lynn and the Spurs are slated to perform on stage at Toddy Jones Park while the local business Lights, Sound Action will be providing DJ services at the intersection of Richmond St. and Dalhousie St. A food truck is still not confirmed for the event, but Elliott said a number of local restaurants plan to be involved with some offering special breakfast and lunch menus for the event. The platinum sponsors for this year’s Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show is the Remax real estate team of John D’Alimonte, Kim Wheeler and Jayci Wigle. “We figure we’re going to get quite a few cars,” said Elliott. “It’s the first major car show in two years other than the Ouellette Cruise (in Windsor). A lot of people want to get out and show off their cars.” The organizing committee believe over 700 vehicles
could attend this year’s show, if all goes according to plan. The awards will be presented at the end of the event, as usual, Elliott stated. There will also be spaces for area car dealerships, he added. “It’ll be a normal-looking car show,” he stated. Vehicle owners will have to pay $10 to display their vehicles and pre-registration forms can be printed off at www.amhertburgsgonecarcrazyshow.com. Entry points will start on North St. then shift to Richmond St. as the streets fill up. The car show will be open to the general public between 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and there is no cost for spectators. “It will be good for Amherstburg,” said Elliott. “It will be good for downtown businesses. It will bring a lot of spectators to the downtown core.”
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10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
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Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission helped through “veggie box” By Mark Ribble & Ron Giofu Dozens of guests gathered at the new Leamington Regional Food Hub on Talbot Street West for the grand opening of the facility. It is a place that benefits the WindsorEssex County Food Bank Association (WEFBA), meaning members like the Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission stand to benefit also. Although they’ve been producing the “Leamington Veggie Box” since May, the Aug. 12 event gave local dignitaries and donors a glimpse into how things are done. A short tour of the facility showed the volunteers working at packing fresh vegetables into boxes for shipment to food banks across Ontario. After the tour, June Muir, CEO of the Unemployed Help Centre (UHC) Hub of Opportunities, took to the stage with several dignitaries to explain what the new hub will mean to hungry people throughout the province. She was quick to credit Vern Toews, who came up with the idea of the food hub and was there to see it through. ‘Papa Vern’ has been instrumental in getting the hub up and running, according to Muir. Vern Toews’ vision of a local hub that rescues produce from local farms and turns it into food for those in need has now come to fruition as the Leamington Regional Food Hub. Toews told about going on a trip out west where the hub had sent 1,300 veggie boxes just days before. The boxes impacted about 9,000 Indigenous people in need. His reception there was emotional and grateful and he says he met a lot of people who were happy to receive the fresh Leamington vegetables. “We can play a small part in reconciliation with our brothers and sister up north,” he said.
The site was offered to the group by Sterling Group. They offered the 16,000 square foot warehouse on a 12-year lease for $1. Toews said they were able to refurbish the warehouse space to their needs and install the necessary machinery to get them up and running. The site is currently able to produce about 13 semi-loads of vegetables per month and they’ve recently been able to speed up production by three days. The UHC Hub of Opportunities is no stranger to distributing food to those in need in this area. They are the hub for the Windsor Essex Food Bank Association, of which there are 15 members. Food donated by over 80 local farms is taken in, graded, sorted and packaged up at the new facility. They also have a dicing line and freezer to produce packaged frozen vegetables in the very near future. Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk said it best when he said, “It really does take a village.” Kusmierczyk was quick to acknowledge Muir and her staff for the great work they do on a daily basis and he was amazed at how the Leamington Food Hub came together. “We are simply blown away by the scale and quality of work carried out by the Unemployed Help Centre,” he said.” He then made a funding announcement, bringing more good news to the hub. “Unemployed Help Centre will be the recipient of $162,240 from the federal government to retrofit and purchase new pieces of equipment,” he said. Chatham-Kent-Leamington MP Dave Epp told an emotional story of
Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald, Hub of Opportunities Treasurer Dave Croswell, Essex County Warden Gary McNamara, Vern Toews and Chatham-Kent-Leamington MP Dave Epp examine the production line at Leamington Regional Food Hub. Photo by Mark Ribble/Southpoint Sun
his grandparents, who fled southern Ukraine to Canada and started a farm on Mersea Rd. 1 so many years ago. Unfortunately, his great-grandparents were to join them, but did not escape and starved to death in the Ukraine. “This is personal for me,” he said. “No one should go hungry in this country, this region or this town.” Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald was also among the speakers and she was happy to be a part of the process. “This is about knowing that when you have an abundance, you need to share with others less fortunate,” she said. “To be a part of this is truly heartwarming.” About 91 volunteers were gathered in a very short three months and Dave Coswell, treasurer of Hub of Opportu-
“This is about knowing that when you have an abundance, you need to share with others less fortunate"
Book Review
Who is Greta Thunberg By Ann Leonard Middle Grade Non-Fiction
The inspiring story of climate activist, Greta Thunberg, told in an easy to digest, interesting format. The book details the defining moments of Greta’s life as well as her motivations for taking on the climate crisis. This book is part of a series called Who Is/What Is series of nonfiction books that tackle people, places and things in a direct, simplified way that is easy for middle graders to understand even if the topic itself is big and complicated. Some of the people and events covered include world changers like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Jackie Robinson to seminal events like Stonewall and Woodstock and fun things like Scooby Doo and Hello Kitty - kids will love it and parents will love the teaching moments inspired by the topics. Submitted by Lori Wightman, of River Bookshop, Amherstburg
nities, gave lots of credit to Vern Toews. “Vern proved that dreams to come true,” he said. According to Muir, the Leamington Regional Food Hub will recover four million pounds of food each year. “It takes a team,” she added. “Our staff — Vern — everyone has contributed to this.” Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission president Tim McAllister said he was thrilled to be part of what is happening in his own way. “This makes me excited,” he said. “My clients get carrots, peppers and tomatoes for free.” McAllister said the mission makes regular trips to the UHC, where the WEFBA is based, to pick up food and said getting additional healthy options is ideal. “Everybody’s excited,” said McAllister. “No one in Canada should have to go hungry. This is a dream come true that we will be able to get vegetables at no cost to give to our clientele. They get healthier food to serve to their families.”
Book Review
Velvet Was the Night By Silvia Moreno-Garcia Adult Fiction
A mild mannered secretary finds herself in the midst of the mystery of her neighbours disappearance. When Maite starts to investigate she meets Elvis who also has a tenuous connection to the missing neighbour. As they uncover secret after secret the pair are thrown into a world of political dissidents, Russian spies and international hitmen. An historical crime noir which is a bit of a departure from Moreno-Garcia’s previous book, Mexican Gothic, which was a horror/paranormal/ gothic tour de force, Velvet Was the Night is full of intrigue and suspense with lush descriptions, multidimensional characters and a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat right to the very last page. Submitted by Lori Wightman, of River Bookshop, Amherstburg
Wednesday, August 18, 2021 – River Town Times – 11
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The House’s “Community Cup” golf classic breaks records Tournament attracts record of 36 teams By Ron Giofu A record number of golfers from around the area “hit the greens to help teens” last weekend. The House Youth Centre marked the return of its Community Cup golf tournament last Saturday at Sutton Creek Golf Club in McGregor. This was the 19th event with staff and volunteers with The House happy to be able to offer it again and even happier with the results. “I’m excited,” said program director Natalyn Brouillard. “This is our most successful year. This is a record-breaking year.” Brouillard said that she figured out that the average number of teams that participated in the golf tournament was usually 12-16 teams. They far exceeded it in 2021. “We tripled that amount this year,” she said. “We had 36 teams. The turnout surprised us. We didn’t expect to have this amount out on the course.” Brouillard believed a lot of people wanted to get out and support a worthy cause that was negatively impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “With COVID, we wanted to stay hopeful but stay realistic at the same time,” she stated. The estimated profit to The House Youth Centre is $10,000, Brouillard added. She said the money will go into their operations and their programming. The ability to present fundraisers such as the Community Cup golf tournament comes as welcome news to The House, she added, as the non-profit organization’s ability to fundraise has been stunted by the pandemic. They couldn’t have the tournament last year and have had to deal with a loss of fundraising revenue as they are getting ready to move from their former Brock St. location into the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St. The House will occupy roughly half of the former St. Bernard School’s gymnasium. Plans for the Community Cup golf event have been ongoing since April, Brouillard added “All of our raffle prizes and gift bags have been generously donated by the community,” said Brouillard. “Our team worked tirelessly to make this a successful event.” Not only did the first, second and third place teams get recognized, The House Youth Centre also recognized the team with the lowest score as to encourage golfers of all abilities to come out.
The foursome of Patrick Frias, Kevin Jarvis, Al Jarvis and Mike Kosikar were one of 36 teams that participated in the Aug. 14 golf tournament for The House Youth Centre. The event raised an estimated profit of $10,000 for The House. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
Sponsors for this year’s golf tournament included Cynthia A. Thrasher – Barrister & Solicitor, Burger 67, Remax Preferred Realty Ltd., Remax Team Brad Bondy, the Zekelman Foundation, Aalbers Tool and Mold, Heaton Sanitation Ltd. (Hurricane Hydrovac Services Inc.), Lucier Glove and Safety, Amherstburg Pharmacy Compounding & Wellness, the Thirsty Butler, Joe Schmoe’s Eats N Drinks, Verge Real Estate Team – Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty, D&R Apparel, Wolfhead Distillery, D’Agnillo Pharmacies Ltd., Dwayne’s Auto, Romano’s Specialty Meats and Italian Deli, Super Mortgage Team, Guthrie Optometry, and Costante Law. Donations were also received from Frank’s Brewery, the Village Shoppe and the Dominion House. Brouillard added the youth centre is expected to be into their new home in September, as the “final touches” are being applied to their new space. She said they are hoping to have an open house at their new location Sept. 3.
Admirals to host Wheatley Sharks in season opener Special to the RTT The Integrity Amherstburg Admirals will open their much anticipated 2021-22 Provincial Junior Hockey League (PJHL) Stobbs Division season at home on Oct. 3 when they will host the Wheatley Sharks at 7 p.m. “We are really looking forward to this year and we’ve been recruiting to make sure we put the best possible team on the ice,” says Admirals GM Greg Crain. While the ice has not gone in at the Libro Centre, the Admirals are working out informally and will be ready to face the host Lakeshore Canadiens Sept. 17 in a pre-season game and will host the Canadiens Sept. 26. Amherstburg will host the Essex 73’s in pre-season action Sept. 19 and travel to Essex Sept. 28. A couple of Admirals have the potential of climbing up the team’s all-time most games played category. Defenceman Reid Stieler, this year’s captain, comes in with 114 regular season games, which is 16th overall, just ahead of fellow blueliner Cole Welsh with 112. “These two guys have been a huge part of our
success in the past and we expect them to be leaders again this season,” says Crain. Incidentally, Michael Hatch holds the record for most games played by an Amherstburg Admiral when he suited up for 175 games between 2015 and 2020. Other interesting all-time stats compiled by team videographer and stats specialist Ryan Groves include Cory Burns, who has scored the most goals in franchise history with 77. Austin Jennings compiled the most assists with 114 while Burns compiled 175 points during his time with the Jr. C hockey franchise. Steve Spada, who played for both the former Kingsville Comets and the Admirals, has the most penalty minutes at 498. In goal, Ben Larder, who put on the pads between 2017 and 2019 leads all other puck stoppers in most games played with 58, most minutes with 3,339.03, wins with 40 and shutouts with five. Last year’s tandem have some impressive numbers as well as Aiden Pitre leads all Admirals goalies with a 1.92 goals against average (GAA) and a .931 save percentage. Nick Bolton has a .911 save percentage and a GAA of 2.72.
The Amherstburg Admirals, seen here celebrating after a 2020 victory, return to the ice in PJHL Stobbs Division action Oct. 3 when they host the Wheatley Sharks at the Libro Centre. Their first home pre-season game is against Lakeshore Sept. 17 and they host Essex in pre-season action Sept. 19. RTT File Photo
12 – River Town Times – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
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Placemaking session held online By Ron Giofu A local lobbying collective recently held a virtual presentation trying to educate its members and the public on the concept of placemaking. THRIVE Amherstburg’s most recent virtual presentation entitled “Places & Placemaking” featured guest speaker Jim Tischler, Centre for Cities Visiting Fellow and Senior Planner, Development Director of the Michigan Land Bank. Placemaking was described as something that can capitalize on Amherstburg’s existing assets and its potential and can inspire residents. Tischler said he was aware of nine of THRIVE’s initiatives and tried to give the technical science of what the group is trying to do. He said placemaking is the process of creating, maintaining and preserving quality places where people want to live, work, play and learn. In showing slides of how to convert a busy thoroughfare into something that becomes more of a place, Tischler noted streetscaping and landscaping can play a role, but so can making streets and corridors more pedestrian friendly. With a slide with more buildings and shops closer to the road, he said how a person feels and a sense of place being addressed can improve how an area is viewed. Placemaking’s intention is to enhance one’s sense of place and that can improve the economy of that area, he stated. “There is a science behind place and a science behind placemaking. It’s not well-known because the science is cross-disciplined,” he said. Tischler said good physical form plus good social activity equals a positive psychological or emotional response, such as a sense of place. Form is defined as buildings, structures, monuments or other built structures “framing good space.” “Good form contains natural features at an appropriate, regional scale,” he noted. Tischler said good form leads to good activity and that could include social activity, leisure activity, sports activity or spontaneous activities. “Spontaneous activities can generate but it can generate because the setting is ready for it to generate spontaneously,” he said, with a slide of a public park with tables and chairs filled with people. “If this was a large parking lot at a shopping centre, I want you to imagine if spontaneously activity would occur.” Form also takes place in rural environments as natural places and human activity combine to create good form. Positive emotional response leads “to your sense of place,” he stated. Good form naturally sustains activity, yields positive emotion and economic prosperity, he added. Tischler told the online audience there are various types of placemaking, including standard, strategic, creative and tactical placemaking. Standard placemaking projects can include downtown street and façade improvements, residential rehabs and infill, and park improvements while strategic placemaking can include such aspects as mixed-use developments in key centres, along key corridors and at key nodes. Creative placemaking projects could include development built around and inclusive of arts, cultural and creative thinking such as museums, public art displays, live-work structures for creative people and more. Tactical placemaking was defined as where two different approaches come together. The placemaking presentation was tied to the Libro Centre master plan, which THRIVE Amherstburg was encouraged to follow up on as the plan has yet to be approved by town council. Tischler said communities who do “single use activities” such as a sporting venue or an entertainment venue are more successful when there are more types of use adjacent to them. Other ideas floated by those in attendance were plans in the historic core of Amherstburg to link various sites and finding new uses and plans for the former General Chemical site. Utilizing real estate professionals better and further marketing of the Libro Centre were also entertained.
14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
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Kicks & Giggles 1919
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AARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Try to dig a little deeper and not take things at face value this week, Aries. Some surprising elements that you may not initially recognize are just waiting to be discovered. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 It’s good to have a rich fantasy life to envision plans for the future, Taurus. Some of these ideas may come to fruition this week as you dig down deep into your creative side.
Note: answers may use American spelling
ANSWERS ON PAGE 13
you get to the heart of the matter and think things through, you can work it out. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, your desire to socialize will be stronger than ever, so get out there and make a new friend or two. You will enjoy sharing ideas with others and trying some new things.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Appreciate all of the good things you have going in your life now, GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Sagittarius. Pay homage to those who Avoid jumping to the conclusion that have lent a hand or offered support a romantic partner is looking to move that went above and beyond. on, Gemini. There may be another underlying factor at play that will CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 soon come to light. You may be on the brink of making a major move Capricorn. Try not to CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 focus too much on all of the small Some major news is the catalyst that details; look at the bigger picture. ignites the flame for your motivation to change, Cancer. You may find AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 you’re interested in volunteerism or A short trip out of town might another worthy project. be necessary to clear your head, Aquarius. Schedule some time to LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 get away so you can rest, relax and Enjoy time spent connecting with recharge free of distraction. some new people this week, Leo. It is a fine time to branch out of your PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 typical social circles and embrace new Take some time alone this week to friendships with confidence. reorder your priorities, Pisces. You may have made commitments that no VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 longer are vital. You gravitate toward people who prefer to see life through rose-colored FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS glasses this week, Virgo. Enjoy this AUGUST 8 - Shawn Mendes, Singer (23) optimistic outlook and make the most AUGUST 9 - Anna Kendrick, Actress (36) of it. AUGUST 10 - Asia Ray, Dancer (16) AUGUST 11 - Chris Hemsworth, Actor (38) LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 AUGUST 12 - Cara Delevingne, Model (29) An intense phone call may put you on AUGUST 13 - Sebastian Stan, Actor (39) edge for a little while, Libra. But once AUGUST 14 - Tim Tebow, Athlete (34)
ANSWERS ON PAGE 13
Wednesday, August 18, 2021 – River Town Times – 15
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Financial numbers reviewed by council, audit & finance committee By Ron Giofu Town council got further details on its 2020 year-end reporting, including its audited financial statements. The report, discussed at a special meeting of council July 25, also included the building services annual statement, development charges reserve funds statement and the parkland dedication reserve fund statement. Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche said tax receivables were up and wanted to know how often they are reviewed and was told by administration they are reviewed monthly. Meloche said he wanted to ensure receivables don’t “drag on” as it impacts cash flow and could cause problems down the road. Councillor Michael Prue said the audit and finance committee “asked every conceivable question and, in the end, they were very happy with not only the auditor but with the staff and the statistics coming out of it.” Prue said the committee was also happy to see the town has $10.2 million of cash in hand. Statements were made that “this has not been the history of this town for the last 20 years,” said Prue. He wondered how it would work for the town in terms of such things as interest and short-term deposit. The committee recommended budgeting funds for council training to read financial statements as indicated in the 2016 Deloitte Report be entertained. The committee also recommended that council direct administration to include in future iterations of the Year End Financial Ratios and Indicators report benchmarking data in the financial leverage ratios section, as recommended by the Audit and Finance Advisory Committee. The committee also asked council to consider a different timeline for the 2023 budget to provide additional time for council, the audit and finance advisory committee and the public to weigh in. Council received the minutes and requested updates on what was asked for. Councillor Don McArthur wanted clarification on the debt, stating he read “we’ve lopped off $2.3 million” and the town now has a debt of $32.63 million ut was told there is still a substantial amound of “legacy debt.” Mayor Aldo DiCarlo wanted it clarified that the accumulated cash reserve was about $15 million, which confirmed to be accurate.
Construction vehicles speeding
The speed of construction vehicles along Texas Road has been a concern for residents and it was a topic at a recent special meeting of town council. Councillor Don McArthur said there was a query from a resident on Texas Road about the issue and wanted to get the word out that the town did receive a response on it from the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment. “We got a lengthy reply from Staff Sgt. (Lisa) Cheney that the police are aware of it and administration are aware of it,” said McArthur. “They are personally contacting the construction companies and the contractors and they are increasing their presence there.” Mayor Aldo DiCarlo said he has family on Texas Road and “I’ve witness it myself – everything from rolling stops from Knobb Hill Dr. onto Texas Road to the speed. The police are out there. They are doing both fines and warnings. The frustrating thing is it doesn’t seem to be penetrating.” Police are continuing to do traffic enforcement in the area, the mayor continued. He said has also been contacted about speeding on other streets in Amherstburg as well. “Speeding seems to be a systemic issue everywhere,” said DiCarlo. “We’re trying to cover all the main roads as much as possible and hopefully they can get the people who are doing it to stop before an incident happens.”
Flooding issues
Councillor Michael Prue said he received a complaint about flooded basements in the Kingsbridge subdivision. He asked if administration was aware of the issue and clerk Paula Parker said it is being investigated. “We don’t have any answers at this point in time but we are investigating,” said Parker. “We are aware of it.” Public works staff and the building department are conducting the investigation and Parker said she is handling the claims. Prue wanted to know when council would be getting an update and Parker said elected officials will be informed when administration has information.
One-year anniversary The River Bookshop celebrated its one-year anniversary last Saturday with cake and store-wide discounts that day. Richard Peddie, who owns the bookshop with wife Colleen, welcomed the public to the anniversary celebration and thanked them for the support over the past year. Lead bookseller Lori Wightman cut the cake during the celebrations. The bookshop is promising a surprise for this Sunday at 3 p.m. along Richmond St. as part of Open Air Weekends.
Community Calendar
SATURDAYS, AUGUST 21, 28 OPIOID AWARENESS CAMPAIGN - Being held by Optimist International in partnership with Pozitive Pathways, Brentwood and CMHA. A $25 donation is suggested to plant crosses in memory of ones that we have lost. The “You Are Not Alone!” campaign runs every Saturday in August (Aug. 14, 21, 28) from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at All Saints Church, 330 City Hall Square, in Windsor. An opioid awareness vigil is August 31 at that location. To reserve your spot or for more information, visit reachingforthestarsoptimist@ gmail.com or call 519-996-9365. COVID-19 rules and regulations will be enforced. SUNDAY, AUGUST 22 RICHMOND ST. SURPRISE - A surprise is being presented by the River Bookshop as part of Open Air Weekends. Free for the public to attend. The event starts at 3:00 p.m. along Richmond St. SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 EMANCIPATION CELEBRATION - The Amherstburg Freedom Museum presents “Celebrating Progress: A Celebration of Emancipation Day” at the museum, 277 King St. Tickets $65, includes chicken dinner catered by Car Barn. Music performance by Black Orchid. Tickets available at emancipation21.givesmart.com. Runs from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 PET MEMORIAL SERVICE - Marcotte Funeral Home (12105 Tecumseh Rd E., Tecumseh) with Celebrant Becky Ewen is hosting a service in memory of our pets that have crossed the rainbow bridge at 1:30 p.m. Spots are limited. Please RSVP by August 25. 519735-2830. Please bring a framed picture of your pet for display during the Memorial Service. SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 - SUNDAY, AUGUST 29 ART BY THE RIVER - Presented by the Gibson Gallery at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada, 100 Laird Ave. Runs 10 a.m.-4 p.m. both days. Admission $5, children under 12 free with adult supervision. Proceeds benefit the Gibson Gallery. No pets, service animals only. For information, call 519-736-2826 or visit www.gibsonartgallery.com. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 MUSIC OFF THE BACK PORCH - Held behind the Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St., weather permitting. Free admission, donations appreciated. Bring your own chairs. Please follow social distancing guidelines. Artists are Bluegrass Buffet and Linda Girard. Starts at 6 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 DINNER & BENEFIT CONCERT - Saturday, September 25. The AMA Sportsmen’s Association presents “The Blues Side.” Tickets are $15. A portion of the proceeds go to the old Malden Fire Hall restoration project next to the Little White Church at the end of Howard Ave. “Back to Back” will be playing 3-5 p.m. The Amherstburg Firefighters from the Malden Restoration project will be cooking burgers, hot dogs and fries to help raise funds. No one under 19 and no outside alcohol. Bring your lawn chair. Tickets available at the AMA Sportsmen’s Club. 468 Lowes Side Road, Amherstburg. Call 519-300-7438 for details, only 450 tickets available. ONGOING Wellness Together Canada offers FREE, 24/7 MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE USE SUPPORT WITH NO WAIT TIMES for Canadians of all ages, in every province and territory and in both official languages. Funded by the Government of Canada. More info at https://wellnesstogether. ca/en-CA. Phone counselling available 24/7 at 1-866-5850445. ACS FOOD BANK - Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance. SOLAR TABLE LIGHTS - Limited edition glass solar table lights available to purchase as fundraiser for Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club. Each is $25 and $5 from each sale goes to the club. Each lights runs on 3 AA rechargeable batteries. For info or to purchase, contact cathy.sales.freelight@gmail.com. COMMUNITY-RUN PHOTO AUCTION - Photos taken by Windsor’s own, very talented, Caitlin Gonneau are posted on the Facebook page Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club Photo Auction, https://www.facebook.com/groups/824183344878984. Photo details and minimum bids are listed. Caitlin will be donating all funds received over the minimum bids, to the Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club. All are welcome to bid on Caitlin’s work. 60-FOR-60 ANNIVERSARY RAFFLE - Presented by Community Living Essex County as part of their 60th anniversary celebrations. All proceeds help to provide supports and services to over 700 children, youth and adults in Essex County with an intellectual disability and their families. Only 4,000 tickets available. Prizes include a grand prize of $10,000 cash, sixty $60 dollar gift cards from a variety of local restaurants, retailers and services from across Essex County and a travel gift package valued at $1,400. The draws will be held Sept. 9, the night of the 60th Anniversary virtual celebrations! Tickets are $25 each or three tickets for $60 and available online at www.communitylivingessex.org.
To place your event in the Community Calendar please email: mail@rivertowntimes.com
16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, August 18, 2021
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