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Wednesday, May 11, 2022
Essex candidates debate the issues Miracle League to return in the fall By Ron Giofu
RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU The Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce held debates featuring candidates from three local ridings last Thursday. The Essex debate featured Ontario Party candidate Frank Causarano, Progressive Conservative candidate Anthony Leardi and NDP candidate Ron Le Clair. Liberal candidate Manpreet Brar missed the debate due to illness.
By Ron Giofu
Three of the candidates in the Essex riding faced off in an often spirited debate last week. Progressive Conservative (PC) candidate Anthony Leardi, New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate Ron LeClair and Ontario Party candidate Frank Causarano were part of the debate last Thursday morning at the Fogolar Furlan Club in Windsor. LeClair led off and said the NDP will fix issues caused by the current PC government and the previous Liberal government and said the recent Stellantis EV battery plant was more of a result of local officials working at it as well as negotiations of Unifor “The provincial government cut funding (for education) and closed schools,” he said, adding he is “driven by results.” Leardi said the NDP is “all talk and no action” and
the Liberals “didn’t even bother to show up” while the Progressive Conservatives are the party of yes, saying they said yes to a new hospital for Windsor-Essex and yes to new highways. According to Leardi, the NDP voted against a new hospital. Causarano asked the audience “what does freedom mean to you?” and accused Premier Doug Ford as being the “lockdown premier.” He said June 2 is an opportunity to take back fundamental freedoms. On the subject of returning to work after the COVID-19 pandemic, LeClair said the NDP “has a comprehensive plan to get back to work” and that includes 20,000 nurses that were “forced out of work” by the PC’s. He added the NDP has a skilled trades platform, and that as a school board trustee, he has focused on trades including a series of technical shops at the new North Star High School in Amherstburg. Continued on Page 4
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Fears over the future of the Miracle League of Amherstburg were put to rest last Tuesday night as a new board has stepped to the forefront. A new volunteer board of directors was established during a public meeting at the Libro Centre after a presentation from retiring board members. Chuck Bondy, who had been chair for the first 12 years of the league, and Michele Vigneux, vice chair and media relations director, both said it was simply time for outgoing members to step aside and let fresh blood take over running the league. Bondy and Vigneux said they have always received great support from the community and noted Miracle League is a “turnkey operation.” Outgoing board members pledged they will be around to assist the new board members during the transition. The Miracle League of Amherstburg plans to be back on the diamond for a fall season, starting in September. “I feel very optimistic,” said Vigneux. “We’re quite pleased to see people step forward. We’re feeling very, very hopeful that the Miracle League will continue.” Vigneux added they also thanked town council and members of administration for their support as well. “We look forward to working with the new board and helping the new members out,” she said. It is “very hard” to walk away from the board, Vigneux added, as she praised the organization. However, she feels it is time for new faces to step forward and was pleased that many did. “It’s time for new people to take those leadership roles,” she said.
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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 11, 2022
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Public comments on proposed apartment building to be subject of future report
Building proposed for 219 Brock St. subject of planning meeting last Monday evening By Ron Giofu Amherstburg town council received its first official look at the new apartment building being proposed for 219 Brock St. with much of the discussion being about a former graveyard in the vicinity. Neighbours also voiced concerns with the proposal, two in-person and another via letter. Representatives of the Rosati Group and Lassaline Planning Consultants were before a special meeting to town council Monday night to outline plans for the proposed four-storey, 75-unit apartment building at the corner of Brock St. and Richmond St. Planner Jackie Lassaline said it was her professional opinion that the development is “absolutely complementary” of the neighbourhood and even said she would have preferred it be even taller given that Amherstburg and Ontario have a housing crisis. She compared it to neighbouring buildings, including St. John the Baptist Church and the 247 Brock St. project, the latter also being developed by the proponents, and believed it was a good fit, calling it “a sweet development that is going to fit nicely in the neighbourhood.” Lassaline said it promotes walkability as it is a five-minute walk to the downtown core and its design is a “low profile” building with a complementary design. Tom and Roberta Carroll voiced their objection via letter, stating they purchased their neighbouring home for the privacy and seclusion it offered. They questioned how the building would fit in near their heritage home and added they have traffic concerns as well. The Carrolls noted there is a school crossing within feet of the entrance. They also believed a stormwater pond near the nearby day care centre wasn’t the best location, but the proponents have said it will remain dry and only contain water after heavy rains after which it would be drained. The Carrolls also wondered about the location of graves. Jacob Martell, a nearby resident, also had concerns and questioned how it could go forward based what is written in the town’s Official Plan. One of his concerns was that the “indiscriminate mix of different housing types should not be permitted” and believed it would block the view of the church. Martell also had traffic and parking concerns, noting it is used a lot by students. “There’s a lot of children that use Richmond St. to get to school,” he said. “It’s a
busy road.” Parking concerns included where people would park their cars when there was a party or large gathering, as he added some spots were being removed on Brock St. The proponents said only two spots are coming out on Brock St. to accommodate one of the two access points. Martell added he wasn’t against development but wondered if the intensification was right for the neighbourhood. Another neighbour, Gloria Phillips, worried there would be “traffic galore” in the neighbourhood and questioned the developers whether they considered that people “park all down the street.” Phillips said she currently sees kids playing soccer on the land and wondered what her view would be. “Now we get to see a building?” she asked. “I’m going to look out my window and see that?” Lassaline noted a traffic study was done in March 2022 and the development fits within the area. She noted there are 115 parking spots for the proposed 75 units. “It’s the perfect site for this type of medium density development,” she stated. The former graveyard in the area was questioned by Councillor Michael Prue, who read from a 2011 study which indicated numerous graves could be further than the boundaries of the former Ecole St.-Jean Baptiste. He also cited old newspaper reports of a burial site for War of 1812 soldiers and Indian soldiers could be in the neighbourhood. Lassaline countered that a 2014 study, prepared by the Town of Amherstburg, showed the land is clear of any gravesites and that any lands in question are not the subject of redevelopment. She also said the Ministry of Culture gave the all-clear for the site. “Why are we talking about an older study?” asked Mayor Aldo DiCarlo, who further questioned why Prue didn’t ask for the more recent report. Prue also asked if the developers would be interested in a Victorian townhometype of development for the site but Lassaline referenced the housing crisis and the need for more rental units. Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche said he agreed with the need for increased density and believed any graves would have been taken care of. “There are all kinds of methods to move gravesites,” he said. Meloche added: “This is an ideal proposal for the property.”
Jane’s Walk comes to Amherstburg Jane’s Walk, named for urban planner Jane Jacobs, came to Amherstburg with two in-person and another virtual “walk” taking place in town last weekend. It was part of several similar walks in Windsor-Essex County last weekend. Meg Reiner from the Marsh Historical Collection talked about the history of downtown buildings last Saturday while local historian Robert Honor talked about the history of homes on Rankin Ave. last Sunday afternoon. Both walks were free. RTT Photos by Ron Giofu
Wednesday, May 11, 2022 – River Town Times – 3
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New minister takes over at Christ Anglican Church
Rev. Lisa Poultney conducts her first services at the historic Ramsay St. church earlier this month By Ron Giofu There is a new permanent minister at Christ Anglican Church. Rev. Lisa Poultney started her new duties May 1 and preached her first two services, taking over from interim Rev. Colin Pearce. Pearce had filled in for two years at the historic Ramsay St. church after Rev. Bill Strang retired in January 2020. Rev. Poultney had been at St. Andrew Memorial Church in London for the past several years but while she enjoyed her time there, she decided she wanted to do something different. “The job brought me (to Amherstburg),” said Rev. Poultney. “I had been in my last charge for six years. You come to a time when it’s time to try something else. Christ Church came up and I wanted to live in a place by the water.” Rev. Poultney said she grew up in Toronto but near the lake and jumped at a chance to come to a smaller community and also be near the water. Her time at St. Andrew Memorial Church was her first in ministry, having made a career change. “It was a midlife change of career. I left fundraising and went back to school and finished two degrees,” she said. Rev. Poultney’s degrees were in divinity and psychotherapy, and she also plans to set up a small psychotherapy practice in Amherstburg. Being a minister is work she has come to enjoy. “There’s constant change. There’s the opportunity to connect with people at a different phase of their lives but there is always something there that is important to them,” said Rev. Poultney. “It’s meaningful work.” Rev. Poultney stated she has walked the downtown
core, “scoped out” a good coffee shop and likes some of the small businesses she has found thus far. She hasn’t had a chance to venture through the entire town yet “but I will,” noting she is still in the process of moving to Amherstburg. She added she has a great sense of humour and loves Monty Python. The church community did an excellent job renovating the rectory where she will live with her three dogs. “The community renovated the rectory. They have done a spectacular job,” said Rev. Poultney. “They have redone it all from top to bottom. They worked as a team and created a beautiful home.” While she met the bulk of the congregation at her initial services, Rev. Poultney added she had visitors prior to that, some welcoming her to town with soup and flowers. As for her goals, she said that will depend on the people at the church. “The goals will depend on what the community wants to achieve,” she said. “I serve with them. I want to help them with their spiritual lives.” While praising the work of Rev. Pearce during the COVID-19 pandemic, Rev. Poultney hopes to have the church regain presence it may have lost during the pandemic. She said virtual services are good, but is glad to be helping the church transition back to in-person services. “I prefer that to Zoom,” she said. “Zoom is an amazing tool but it’s not the same singing over that.” Rev. Poultney added: “If nothing else, this is an important historical icon in the town’s history but it’s also so much more.” Services at Christ Anglican Church are every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. “I’m genuinely excited about this being a new adventure in my life, not just a job,” said Rev. Poultney. I really want to be a part of Amherstburg.”
Rev. Lisa Poultney is the new minister at Christ Anglican Church. She takes over from interim minister Rev. Colin Pearce, who had been in place for two years since Rev. Bill Strang retired. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 11, 2022
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Three of the Essex riding candidates debate issues Continued from Page 1
Leardi said “nobody has done more” to rebuild Ontario than Ford and the Ontario PC’s and pointed out several recent announcements by Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development to promote skilled trades in the province. He said the average age of a person in the skilled trades is 55-years-old and that previous governments haven’t done enough to bring in a new generation of workers. “Our government is fixing that,” said Leardi. Causarano claimed that 300,000 jobs have left Ontario and said his party would restore jobs to everyone that lost them due to pandemic mandates. He added small businesses were hampered during the pandemic, adding Windsor-Essex was the most impacted area due to mandates. “An Ontario Party government will never lock down small businesses or medium-sized businesses while large businesses are allowed to stay open and make money,” he said. Leardi refuted Causarano’s job losses figure, stating they came under the previous Liberal government but Causarano replied that “you can’t trust anything Doug Ford says anymore.” On the subject of climate change, Leardi touted the province’s efforts to help Dofasco convert its coal-fired ovens to electric by 2028 at its Hamilton plant. That will have a “positive effect” on the environment, he added, and praised Ford and his government for undertaking that as a project. “We’re already getting this done,” said Leardi. Causarano said his party believes in reinvesting in renewable energy and generate jobs in green energy. He said they also want to gain energy
independence and reduce the reliance on foreign production. LeClair said he was “shocked” Leardi made a reference to the PC’s work on the environment. “They haven’t gotten it done on the environment,” said LeClair, adding a highway near Toronto will go through the Greenbelt and numerous EV charging stations were ripped out. He said the NDP will promote the Greenbelt, institute a cap and trade system and promote green energy. Leardi said the NDP “votes against everything” and that a pledge by Causarano to use a pipeline from Alberta is not in the province’s jurisdiction. The question on a green economy and society re-opening saw Causarano throw his support behind small businesses and said “Ontario has to get back to producing products.” He also touted the tourism industry and how businesses can take advantage of it. LeClair said how spinoff jobs are created from the Stellantis announcement has to be considered. “We need to invest in tourism,” LeClair added, and he also wanted to leverage the arts community as well. Leardi highlighted the $5 billion Stellantis announcement and the more recent $3 billion announcement that will restore a third shift at the company’s Windsor Assembly plant as well as bring in research and development jobs. He praised Ford’s efforts on those files. “Doug Ford worked to get it done. It was put together by working across the aisle,” said Leardi. LeClair responded by saying it was the work of Stellantis and Samsung as well as local officials and Unifor, the latter having it included in their most recent collective agreement.
“The election is about rebuilding Ontario and getting the job done,” said Leardi, adding the $8 million investment shows “the proof is in the pudding.” The subject of the “digital divide” saw LeClair say continued investments are needed in broadband internet. LeClair said the province wanted two high school credits to be done online prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and “the pandemic showed it’s not possible.” There are still parents and students with “sketchy dialup” internet and that means additional broadband access is needed. Leardi said the PC’s are continuing to make investments and cited a project in Lakeshore where a portion of the community can now have high-speed internet. He said the agriculture industry is very important to the Essex riding and that their technology is heavily dependent on high-speed internet. Causarano said Chatham-KentLeamington MPP Rick Nicholls, who is now an Ontario Party member, fought for high-speed internet for his riding and the party also wants to bring that success to Essex County. Money used for a highway investment near Toronto should be used to expand broadband access instead. “An Ontario Party government will get this done,” he said. LeClair responded to Leardi that the PC candidate is taking credit for an MNSI investment and that one per cent of the budget is devoted to broadband access. The subject of transparency and decisiveness saw LeClair state the NDP will bring in electoral reform to allow for a more democratic process. Leardi said Ford has shown decisiveness repeatedly while as premier including on the new hospital, something he said was in the 2021 budget that the NDP voted against. “We’re not voting no, we’re voting yes,”
said Leardi. LeClair responded by accusing Leardi of having “a poor relationship with the truth” and using “diversionary tactics,” adding the NDP supports the hospital but the no vote was in relation to Bill 124 that restricted wages for healthcare workers. Leardi said people can vote for the building of critical infrastructure and a party that will get it done, and “you can vote for Doug Ford.” Causarano said the debt was swelled from $295 billion when former premier Kathleen Wynne left office to $400 billion and predicted that will rise to $500 billion if Ford is reelected. “This election, you can ask yourself what kind of future do you want in Ontario?” he said. Leardi concluded by saying Ford is rebuilding Ontario’s economy, keeping costs down and saying yes to getting things done, while LeClair said the NDP will fix problems caused by Liberal and PC governments and invest in people, a new hospital and education. Liberal candidate Manpreet Brar did not attend the debate, but her campaign issued a statement later that afternoon stating she was ill. “Unfortunately, Ms. Brar was unable to attend the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce debate today due to illness,” the statement read. “Ms. Brar became ill the evening before the debate and did not want to put others in attendance at risk of illness, in line with current public health guidance. She has since tested negative for COVID-19 but will continue to take precautions. Ms. Brar was looking forward to the debate and is disappointed she was unable to attend. She looks forward to continuing to connect with voters at the doors and on the phone over the next 28 days.”
Miracle League of Amherstburg planning for a September season
Continued from Page 1
Vigneux didn’t rule out stopping by the diamond some weeks to watch some of the games, and emphasized she and other outgoing board members are happy and grateful other volunteers are allowing the Miracle League of Amherstburg to continue. “I love the players. I love the families,” she said. “The saddest thing would have been not to have it continue.” Details still have to be worked out but the new board plans on heavily publicizing when registration opens for the fall season. The new board of directors will be led by Shawn Dufour, an Amherstburg resident whose day job is an elementary school principal with the Greater Essex County District School Board. Dufour said he’s always enjoyed giving back and “sports is my passion.” He noted
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his two daughters have been heavily involved in sports and now that they are getting older, it is time for him to give back in other ways. “Now it’s time to give back to the community,” said Dufour. After having travelling around Ontario, Michigan and Ohio on weekends for softball tournaments, he reiterated his desire to give back and noted he has a background in helping students with special needs during his career. He read about the need for new Miracle League board members online and immediately wanted to assist. “When I read about it, I said I had to do something,” said Dufour. Even though he hasn’t been to a game yet, Dufour said he knows the efforts to restart the league will be worth it when he sees the smiles on people’s faces “It looks like there is a lot of support from people in town,” he said. Dufour said there are a bit of nerves in taking over as a board member with the Miracle League of Amherstburg, but he added he also has experience as a board member with the Windsor Wildcats baseball program. He said he plans on working with Bondy and other board members to keep things going at the highest level possible. Stating that it is sad there isn’t enough time to get the spring season going this year, they are planning for the fall season to occur and to keep Canada’s first Miracle League active after that. “It’s something that I want to keep going,” said Dufour.
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Another alleged stunt driver caught in Amherstburg Another alleged stunt driver has been stopped in Amherstburg. An officer from the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg detachment was monitoring the speed of traffic by conducting radar in the area of the 1400 block of Front Road North April 30 at approximately 12:30 p.m. At that time, police say a red Dodge Ram pickup truck was observed travelling at what appeared to be well above the posted speed limit of 70 km/hr. The officer activated the radar, and the driver was found to be allegedly driving in excess of 40 km/hr above the limit in a posted 70 km/hr zone. According to police, the vehicle was stopped and a 51-year-old Windsor male was charged with stunt driving, contrary to the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario. The vehicle was towed for an automatic 14day impoundment. The driver also faces a 30-day automatic license suspension. Stunt driving is a newly amended offence under the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario. Drivers caught travelling 40 km/h or more above the speed limit on a road where the posted limit is less than 80 km/h can be charged with stunt driving. If there is a conviction, the driver could face penalties of six demerit points, fines of $2000 to $10,000, a six-month jail sentence, or license suspension.
Noise enforcement
The Windsor Police Service (WPS) has announced an anti-noise campaign that began and will run through Sept. 5. WPS also revealed a new on-line option for noise complaints. The Windsor Police Service states it has noticed increased public concerns surrounding noise pollution in its communities over the years, especially related to unnecessary vehicle noise. The focus of the campaign will be on noise created from vehicles, however, police add is not limited to vehicle noise and all unnecessary noise may be subject to investigation. Police say they will be out in their communities enforcing legislation available to target noise in an effort to increase the quality of living for the residents of Windsor and Amherstburg. Both communities have bylaws with respect to emission of sounds. Police say officers also have the ability to lay charges under the Highway Traffic Act in respect to noise and may use discretion as to which legislation to use when laying charges. Unnecessary motor vehicle noise is not allowed nor acceptable with the City of Windsor or the Town of Amherstburg. Examples include but are not limited to revving engines, squealing tires; loud stereos; repair, build, modify or test vehicle during prohibited hours and/or general loud noise caused by vehicle (ex. no muffler). The Town of Amherstburg bylaw is Bylaw 2002143 and is found at https://www.amherstburg.ca/ en/town-hall/resources/2001-43---Noise-By-law. pdf As per the Amherstburg bylaw, noise is defined as, “unwanted sound.” WPS has also implemented a new on-line reporting system that provides complainants with a case number and a copy of the report immediately via e-mail. For more information on the new Noise Complaint Online Reporting System, please visit: https://windsorpolice.ca/services/reporting/ Pages/Noise.aspx Acting Chief Jason Bellaire stated: “With the arrival of nicer weather, the Windsor Police Service expects to receive an increase in complaints related to noise. We ask that everyone consider others and be respectful to everyone in our communities by complying with all legislation pertaining to unnecessary noise.” —All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment
Wednesday, May 11, 2022 – River Town Times – 5
Deputy Mayor bowing out of municipal politics at end of term By Ron Giofu
When Mayor Aldo DiCarlo announced he wouldn’t seek re-election, many in Amherstburg thought it was a natural progression to see Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche try for the role. Not so, says Meloche, who announced Monday he is leaving municipal politics as well at the end of the current term. “It’s been a great run,” said Meloche. “Never in my wildest imagination did I think I’d be in politics.” Meloche was elected as a councillor in 2014 and after four years in that role, was elected deputy mayor in 2018. He said there were community members and former politicians asking him to run for mayor, but he ultimately decided not to seek election to the next term of council. He said he was “humbled by the number of requests” and noted he spoke with DiCarlo about the matter, but “in the end, I decided against it and will be leaving municipal politics at the end of my term.” Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche has announced he will not run in the A personal tragedy occurred in his life four years 2022 municipal election. He was thought to have been a mayoral ago and pouring himself into the role of deputy may- candidate now that Mayor Aldo DiCarlo is not running, but Meloche or helped him deal with his loss. ultimately decided not to seek elected office this year as well. “At the end of the day, I entered my second term RTT Photo by Ron Giofu on the heels of my wife passing away,” he said. “As difficult as it was, I embraced the past four years with challenges of the future, adding he’s had a good repassion. There was still much to be done. Since 2014, lationship with staff and has found them to be supI have been a part of our town’s tremendous trans- portive. Town leadership moving forward will still have formation. Financial stability, in the form of higher to face financial challenges, embrace infrastructure reserves, lower debt and a much improved cash needs and continue to attract investment, Meloche position; improving on conditions that have made believes. Amherstburg attractive for growth and investment; “Amherstburg’s position in 2014 set a course,” said significant investments to address our deteriorating Meloche. “I believed I could be of assistance in turninfrastructure are just some of the things I’m most ing the town around.” proud to have a positive influence on.” Meloche added “I want to thank the residents of this Meloche said the past eight years have been “chalgreat town for their support over the last eight years.” lenging but also rewarding” and “the town has come a long way from the doom and gloom days of 2014.” Noting he will soon turn 70-years-old, Meloche said he has personal interests he wishes to pursue. He also wants to travel more, noting he already has a 21-day trip planned for August. It was a difficult decision not to run in the next election, he said, adding his family helped him make up his mind. “I’ve been toying with this idea for three months,” said Meloche. “I didn’t take this decision lightly. It was a tough decision but I’m comfortable having made it.” th The new council will have its own challenges, he continued, including building up reserves. Reserves has been a big issue for Meloche during his time on council, and he stated reserves should top $22 million at year’s end. “A town of our size and Canned Meats Soups with our assets should have about $40 million Sauces Canned Fruits (in reserves),” he added. Pasta • Rice Juices Meloche also thanked town staff, believing Condiments Canned Vegetables there is “a solid group” that council members draw upon. He said he will miss working with CASH DONATIONS GREATLY APPRECIATED. the staff in taking on the
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Liberal candidate Brar officially opens her campaign office
Essex Liberal candidate Manpreet Brar speaks to supporters at the opening of her campaign office last Saturday morning. Brar is trying to turn the riding Liberal after ten years in NDP hands. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
By Ron Giofu The Liberal candidate for Essex has officially opened her campaign office and had some well-known local party leaders helping her do it. Manpreet Brar hopes to return the riding into Liberal hands, something it hasn’t been since Bruce Crozier passed away in 2011. She was joined by former MPP and deputy premier Dwight Duncan as well as current Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk in promoting her candidacy during the event Saturday morning in Belle River. Brar said she had a lot of help along the way as she went from being “a little girl in India” to the Liberal candidate in the June 2 provincial election. “This is my time to give back to my community that has done so much for me,” said Brar. Brar said the riding has been “very poorly represented” in Queen’s Park by the NDP and asked supporters to come together to turn it red once again. “We can make it,” she said. “I’m not afraid of hard work.” A Liberal government would improve the lives of seniors, Brar added, including investments to allow seniors to age at home. Education is another key issue for the Liberals with
Brar noting she is a career-oriented woman who often has had to worry about who would look after her two children while she and her husband were at work. Brar accused Premier Doug Ford of signing on to a federal $10 per day child care plan “at the last minute,” adding provincial Liberals would offer $2,750 per child for parents. “Education is another strong pillar of our community,” she said, stating that students have “suffered’ for the last two years particularly with online learning. A Liberal government would take the steps necessary to prevent any more lockdowns and said students need the interaction with each other to improve their mental health and social skills. Kusmierczyk said he was happy and excited to support Brar. He said many investments have been made in the Windsor-Essex County area when Liberals are in power locally at the provincial and federal levels. “That’s when Windsor and Essex has thrived,” said Kusmierczyk. “It’s up to all of us here to send Manpreet to Queen’s Park.” Kusmierczyk pointed out Brar has been involved in politics locally for 20 years, working on campaigns both federally and provincially, including his own. He vowed to return the favour. “Manpreet has shown up and stepped up to the plate,” said Kusmierczyk. According to Kusmierczyk, the “crowning achievement” of the Ford government has been the balancing of the budget, but his translation was that it meant cutting hospital services, long-term care and frontline workers. Duncan believed it will be a “challenge” to win back the riding but expressed confidence that Brar is up to it. He said it is a “clean slate” in that incumbent NDP MPP Taras Natyshak is not running. “When you hear Doug Ford take credit for the hospital, don’t believe it,” said Duncan. Duncan said Ford “sat on it” for three years and that if action were taken sooner, he believed the hospital would be closer to being under construction. Estimates have the hospital opening in 2031 and Duncan said “that isn’t good enough,” adding the province gave funding for initial phases for a new hospital in 2012. The choice is between Ford and Liberal leader Steven Del Duca, Duncan added, and that “when a person like Manpreet puts her name on the ballot, it’s a giant step forward.”
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Tenders OK’ed for county road rehab projects By Ron Giofu A total of eight road rehabilitation projects are going forward after Essex County council approved a tender recently. County council approved a tender valued at $1,827,235 plus HST from Coco Paving Inc. for the works. The engineer’s estimate for the projects was $1,850,000. Three of the eight construction projects will occur on county roads within or on the border of the Town of Amherstburg. A 1.9-kilometre stretch of Howard Ave. between County Road 20 and South Side Road is scheduled for this year while a 1.8-kilometre stretch of Walker Road between County Road 18 and County Road 12 near McGregor is also in the county’s construction plans. The third construction project in Amherstburg this year is a 1.4-kilometre stretch of County Road 50 between Concession 7 South to Collison Side Road. A subsequent tender for hot mix asphalt has also been approved with Coco Paving get that as well for just over $3.875 million. Other projects include a 5.2-kilometre stretch of Walker Road from County Road 8 to Highway 3 in Tecumseh, a 1.3-kilometre portion of County Road 50 in Essex from Dunn Road to Dahinda St., a 1.3-kilometre section of County Road 20 from 100m east of Sunset St. to Ferriss Road in Essex, a 1.8-kilometre stretch of County Road 29 from South Talbot Road to County Road 29 in Kingsville and a 3.5-kilometre stretch of County Road 46 from Rochester Townline to County Road 31 in Lakeshore. Director of infrastructure and planning services Allan Botham pointed out in his report to county council the funds for this work are includes as part of the 2022 rehabilitation program and the 2022 paved shoulder program. That tender was approved in late February with the March 2 meeting seeing additional road projects approved for the county, including Amherstburg. Hot mix overlay and asphalt projects valued at over $7.6-million will be done around the county this year, with the Mill-Am Corporation getting that work. Amherstburg projects will include a 1.1-kilometre stretch of Alma St., also known as County Road 16, from Tofflemire Court to County Road 20, County Road 18 from Walker Road to Howard Ave. to Walker Road (2.5 kilometres), as well as County Road 5 – also known as Concession 2 North – from Texas Road to County Road 10 (2.1 kilometres).
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Wednesday, May 11, 2022 – River Town Times – 7
Renovations planned for well-known downtown Amherstburg building
By Ron Giofu The building that the former Amherst Hotel once occupied and now is the home of a real estate office is being transformed once again. Dan and Nicole Gemus have plans to redo their building at 61 Richmond St. and rebrand it the “Richmond Centre.” The building currently houses a number of different offices, including Gemus’ real estate business and the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce, with a total of ten new offices planned for along Richmond St. Plans also call for a new retail shop – known as “The Richmond Popcorn Co.” – to go into one of the units along the west side of the building. A “Dippin’ Dots” outlet is also in the works as part of the business. “We’re very excited,” said Dan. “It’s been in the works for about a year.” Dan said they worked at trying to figure out what to do with the retail space in the building and they also wanted to make improvements in their building in the downtown core. He stated they worked closely with Richard and Colleen Peddie, the latter having Dan and Nicole Gemus are planning to renovate their building at 61 Richmond St. They are planning to renovate the exterior with interior either renovated or constructed a series of buildings improvements including new office space and a gourmet popcorn shop. Screenshot next to them. Amherst Hotel design. The idea behind the “Richmond Centre” is to create “a business hub for “We’ve already started construction inside. We’re anticipating in the next downtown Amherstburg” with Dan adding he signed some leases for some of the month or two to see work start on the exterior,” he stated. “We’re aiming for a ten office spaces after he announced the project via social media last Wednesday mid to late-summer opening.” morning. Dan estimated the investment as being in the $500,000-$750,000 range. They “People are often asking ‘why the popcorn shop?’” he said. “In our brainstorming have owned the building since 2015. sessions about what to bring to the downtown core, we wanted something where There has been an “incredible reaction” to the announcement, he added, with we could give back to the community, which was important to Nik and I.” Dan stating he believes there is a need for more “positive vibes” in town. There There are ways to help fundraise for other organizations in the area and also to are “a lot of changes happening” and that he and Nicole want to be part of it. set up a tent for the popcorn business at various festivals and events. He added “We want to keep the ball rolling,” he said. they plan on offering delivery within Windsor-Essex County. A new website is under development for the Richmond Centre but the “We’re hoping to get some murals in the back of the building as well to brighten Richmond Popcorn Co. has a website launched at www.richmondpopcorn.com. up that area,” he added, noting other plans are in the works for behind the building as well. A large photograph of what Richmond St. used to look like in early 20th Century will be put in one of the front windows “to add a little more of a historic touch to the building,” with that being done in partnership with the Marsh Historical Collection. Dan said new doors and windows are being put along the main floor of the building. Brick veneer is planned for The Richmond Popcorn Co. will be part of a new the front exterior with siding being development being proposed by Dan and Nicole re-done along the sides of the building. Gemus. Their building at 61 Richmond St. will The sign in front will be changed and be renovated this spring and summer, he said. Screenshot the new one will resemble an original
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8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 11, 2022
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Amherstburg woman among St. Clair College’s 2022 “Alumni of Distinction” By Ron Giofu
An Amherstburg resident has been recognized by St. Clair College as one of its 2022 “Alumni of Distinction.” Karen Bolger was one of six honourees at a recent awards ceremony held in the Alumni Skyline room at the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts in downtown Windsor. Bolger graduated in 1985 from the Developmental Services Program at St. Clair College. Her biography notes that as a teenager, she volunteered for a local fitness program for people with disabilities, She would go on to enrol at St. Clair College and made her career at Community Living Essex County. She has gone from a full-time support worker to many management roles, including her appointment as executive director in 2018. Bolger was honoured in the category of community studies. She thanked her nominator Donna Rocheleau, who is also a St. Clair College alumni in the same program. Bolger said she was “shocked and surprised” to receive the award. She thanked her family for their support, including her parents, siblings, husband Norbert and children Kyle, Cody and Brittany. “They have been my rock, support me in every way possible, and when I doubt myself, they are there to give me encouragement,” she said. Bolger said CLEC still has a great partnership with St. Clair College, including accepting student placements and hiring graduates. She said her years working as a support worker was important to her and also helped her career. “I think it really helped me in my leadership roles,” she said. “I think it’s helped me be a better leader. Tim Byrne, Chief Administrative Officer with the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA), was another honouree. Byrne graduated in 1979 from the Civil Engineering Technology program. He was honoured in the category of Technology / Engineering. Byrne worked as an engineer with Lafontaine, Cowie, Buratto and Associates in 1979 and held the position roughly five years. Byrne began his career with ERCA in 1984 and never left. He worked his way up the ranks before achieving the top job as ERCA CAO in 2021. Other honourees included Michael Audet, Chief Executive Officer, E.L.K. Energy (Essex. Lakeshore. Kingsville. Energy), who graduated in 1988 from the
We Celebrate Life.
St. Clair College recognized six “Alumni of Distinction” at a banquet at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts. One of the recipients was Amherstburg resident and Community Living Essex County executive director Karen Bolger. From left: Tomoko Oxenfarth, Kristen Kennedy, Bolger and ERCA CAO Tim Byrne. Not pictured are Michael Audet and Chris Vadori. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
Business Common program. He was honoured in the category of Business & I.T. Kristin Kennedy, President and Chief Executive Officer, Erie Shores Health Care in Leamington, graduated in 1997 from the Nursing program. She was honoured in the category of Nursing/Health Sciences. Tomoko Oxenfarth, Designer/Owner of Maison Louise, graduated in 2020 from the Fashion Design Technician program. She was honoured as a Recent Grad. Chris Vadori, Social Media Manager – Canada, Skip the Dishes, graduated in 2010 from the Advertising program. He was honoured in the category of Creative Arts (Media, Art & Design). This year’s list of honourees brought a total of 125 graduates recognized by St. Clair College since 1992. “There’s a dual purpose of the Alumni of Distinction program,” St. Clair College president Patti France said. “It does exist, most certainly, to pay tribute to the remarkable achievements of the recipients –both professionally, and in recognition of the many beneficial contributions they’ve made to their communities. It also serves as a source of inspiration to current and prospective students: to demonstrate to them, in the form of an individual who has excelled, that a St. Clair education is the basis of tremendous success and fulfillment.” “The Alumni of Distinction awards are a true reflection of the College’s motto ‘Start Here, Go Anywhere,’ said John Feldman, President St. Clair College Alumni Association. “This year, the honourees have made remarkable strides in their journey from St. Clair College. We are looking forward to sharing their unique story with all of our students, alumni, and our community.”
Book Review
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The Teller of Secrets is a coming of age story set in Ghana. Esi, our delightful main character, takes the reader on her journey through childhood, the teen years into adulthood. Esi sees the double standards set on men and women in both her home and society. She questions these standards and is often met with punishment and ridicule, even from other women in her own family. Esi is a curious, intelligent and strong character that even during the rough times will have you laughing out loud. Bisi Adjapon is a wonderful author. Her descriptive way of writing brings the reader to Ghana to smell the food, the flowers: to feel the sand in your eyes and the salt water on your skin. And the cover of the book is gorgeous!. Submitted by River Bookshop Staff
Wednesday, May 11, 2022 – River Town Times – 9
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Quilter Kristy Browning, left; along with Two Krazy Women, Joanna Drury and Pauline McKeown were at the “All About Mom” event at the AMA Sportsmen’s Club last weekend. Photos by Fred Groves
Event organizers Brook, left; and Mary Lippert presented a vendor fair called “All About Mom”. The Lipperts own and operate a business called Sweet Moments.
Special guest stars Ms. Windsor World Universal Kailey Jackson and Minnie Mouse were part of the All About Mom event.
“All about Mom” vendors fair draws large crowd By Fred Groves Spring was definitely in the air on Saturday and so was Mother’s Day. Presented by Sweet Moments, a well-attended vendors fair called All About Mom was held at the Amherstburg Sportsmen’s Club and according to organizer Mary Lippert the event ended up having several goals. “We wanted to do something for people to get them out and interact. Part of our vendor fee goes to the Sportsmen’s Kids Club,” said Lippert. The past two years has limited popular events such as this one and Lippert was pleased, along with her daughter Brook, to bring not only crafty vendors and shoppers together but support local fund-raising initiatives. Proceeds from the raffle went to the local Kids Curing Cancer. “It’s awesome to see, we are really excited,” said Mary of the turnout on Saturday. The fact that Sunday was Mother’s Day and there were a lot of gift ideas available was an added bonus.
One exhibitor was Kristy Browning of Amherstburg who was showing off some of her fine quilting wares and explained how the time-honoured tradition is continuing. “It is getting a little more popular. I get together with a group of women,” said Browning. She was sharing a large table with two ladies who had perhaps the most humorous name amongst the vendors – Two Krazy Ladies. Pauline McKeown of Amherstburg and Joanna Drury have joined forces and had lots of colorful gift ideas for Mother’s Day. And when asked how they came up with the name of their joint venture, Drury with a grin said, “we wanted to think of a name that people would remember.” Saturday’s event, the first hosted by Sweet Moments had a couple of special guests in attendance, Ms. Windsor World Universal Kailey Jackson and Minnie Mouse.
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10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 11, 2022
Amherstburg resident Alanna Taylor won $1 million in a March 30 Lotto 6/49 draw. She claimed her prize recently in Toronto and the announcement of her win came last week. OLG photo
Amherstburg resident wins $1 million in recent Lotto 6/49 draw Special to the RTT
Alanna Taylor of Amherstburg has that “6/49 feeling” after winning a guaranteed $1 Million in the March 30 Lotto 6/49 draw. Taylor, a 64-year-old mother and grandmother, said this isn’t her first big win. “I won $50,000 on LOTTO 6/49 12 years ago,” she shared while at the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) Prize Centre in Toronto to pick up her winnings. “I choose my own numbers which are comprised of family birthdays.” While getting ready for work at 6 a.m., Alanna checked her ticket using the OLG App. “I was barely awake and completely shocked!” she told the OLG. Taylor said she plans to share her win with family, complete some home renovations and drop her work schedule to part-time. “This feeling is hard to describe – it’s such a great experience,” she concluded. OLG is booking in-person prize claim appointments at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto. They strongly encourage those with claims between $1,000 and $49,999.90 to submit them online or mail them, as appointment availability at this prize level is limited. Submitting claims online is fast and secure, the OLG added. Customers with prizes over $50,000 are asked to call 1-800-387-0098 to discuss available prize claim options. The OLG added that Lotto 6/49 players in Ontario have won over $13.6 billion in prizes since 1982, including 1,417 jackpot wins and 411 guaranteed $1 Million Prize draws. Lotto 6/49 is $3 per play and draws take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The winning ticket was purchased at Lynn’s Variety Inc. on Richmond St. in Amherstburg.
Book Review Root Magic By Eden Royce Middle Grade Fiction
This engaging story follows twins Jezebel and Jay, a pair of precocious tweens growing up in the in 1960s South Carolina. Royce discusses the legacy of slavery from a new and rarely explored perspective. Root Magic centers around Gullah culture, a mix of African American and West African cultural practices and linguistic traditions. Throughout the book, Jezebel and Jay learn about rootwork, an ancient practice for healing and protection that is passed down from their ancestors. If you enjoyed the popular Netflix show Outer Banks, you will love Root Magic’s Carolinian lore and mystery. Furthermore, Royce’s novel is an ode to the beautiful bond between grandchild and grandparent. She explores topics like the importance of ancestral connection and processing grief after the loss of a loved one. If you are interested in learning more about Black culture and history, this book is a must-read. Submitted by River Bookshop Staff
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The Gibson Gallery has welcomed its new office administrator, Tracy Atkinson, who will be taking over from the retiring Bonnie Deslippe. Deslippe (left) and Atkinson stand with the first and last pieces ever made by Gloria Gellner, with the works of Gellner being subject of the gallery’s current exhibit. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
New office administrator hired at Gibson Gallery By Ron Giofu For over a dozen years, Bonnie Deslippe has been the face that most often greets people as they enter the Gibson Gallery. Now, that person will be Tracy Atkinson. Atkinson has been hired as the new office administrator at the gallery, and she will replace Deslippe, who is retiring. Atkinson began her new role March 24 and Deslippe has been training her two days per week. Atkinson said the job is a good fit for her, as it is a seasonal part-time position. “I can’t work full-time because of my three kids and I help my husband with his business (Atkinson Plumbing),” she said. After being a stay-at-home mom and bookkeeper for her husband, she re-enters the workforce. Her past experience includes working at Scotiabank and Rexall Pharma Plus. “My youngest is eleven and I am looking forward to getting back out into the world,” said Atkinson. Atkinson added she is a sewer and quilter, and noted the first quilting class she ever took was at the Gibson Gallery. She hopes people will continue to come in to see exhibits and take classes, noting she has already introduced herself to the many guilds that use the gallery. She has also attended her first board meeting, as the gallery is run by the Fort Malden Guild of Arts and Crafts. “Bonnie is going to stay on and help with Art by the River,” Atkinson added. “She’s been doing this for a long time. She’s good at what she does.” Atkinson is learning about how the Gibson Gallery operates and Deslippe will step away once Atkinson is fully up to speed. “The art gallery will miss Bonnie when she’s gone,” said Deslippe “Hopefully she doesn’t go very far. I’ve enjoyed working with her these last few weeks. She’s a very nice lady.” “I’m happy Tracy is here,” added Deslippe. “I think she’s going to do a phenomenal job.” The current exhibit at the Gibson Gallery is “Afterglow – A Gloria Gellner Retrospective.” The exhibits celebrates Gellner’s career, including when she graduated from the University of Windsor in 1975, through ownership of Capricorn Pottery in Kingsville, and until her death in 2018. “This exhibit is something we wanted to do back in April 2020,” Deslippe said. “She was well-known by potters across Ontario.” Deslippe added Gellner exhibited works at various shows including at Art by the River and Art in the Park. Gellner’s first piece and her last piece are included as part of the exhibit, which runs through May 22. That is also the date of a reception, with that running from 1-3 p.m. “It’s a very interesting collection of work,” she said. “It shows what an amazing artist she was.” The Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Their current hours are Thursday-Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, call 519-736-2826 or visit www.gibsonartgallery.com.
Wednesday, May 11, 2022 – River Town Times – 11
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Villanova baseball team steps up to help local charity as part of tournament
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By Ron Giofu The St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School baseball team not only participated in a recent baseball tournament, but they did so with a charitable twist. The Wildcats were part of the Julien Gaudet Memorial Tournament and hosted some of the games at their diamond next to the school. One of the games was the afternoon of May 2 against Toronto Northern and saw s large crowd of students buy their way out of class with a $2 donation and come over to watch the game. Villanova coach Tom Beale, also a co-operative education and OYAP teacher at the school, said Toronto Northern usually comes down yearly. Half of the proceeds raised at last Monday afternoon’s game went to Julien’s House, established in memory of Gaudet. In all, the school raised $300 through the baseball game. “His parents started a house in Windsor where parents who lost a child can go to in order to meet grief counsellors,” Beale explained. Beale added he was pleased to see the number of students that participated in the day. Other games in the tournament were played in Tecumseh, he noted. Another benefit to the Villanova team was that their players got to compete in front of a crowd, something they haven’t been able to do in a while. “To have our kids be able to play in front of a crowd is pretty special,” said Beale. “It’s the first time since 2019 we’ve been able to play in front of a crowd.” The Wildcats beat Toronto Northern and Sandwich in the tournament. They were only able to play two games as action scheduled for last Tuesday was rained out. More information about Julien’s House can be found at www.julienshouse.ca. In a message posted to the website from his parents Christine and Germain
Lucas Chartrand takes a rip at a pitch during last Monday’s game against Toronto Northern. The game was also a fundraiser for Julien’s House, with Villanova raising $300. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
Gaudet, it said “In May 2011, our son Julien Gaudet died as a result of a traumatic brain injury suffered in an automobile related accident. Julien was 18 years old. In the weeks and months that followed, we sought out counselling through the bereavement program at the Canadian Mental Health Association – Windsor Essex County Branch. There, we found companionship, support and invaluable coping mechanisms to help get us through the daily challenges while mourning Julien’s death.” The message continued: “In wanting to become more involved in assisting other bereaved parents, we created a variety of peer support initiatives designed to help all parents and families keep their deceased
children part of their daily lives. We attended a series of seminars at The Coping Centre in Cambridge, Ontario presented by the world renowned grief specialist Dr. Alan Wolfelt. We were very impressed by the facility and what it stood for; we began to ponder whether we could transform Julien’s first home, which sits on an acre of land to become a similar centre for the citizens of Windsor and its surrounding communities. As a result, we reached out to professionals in this field to discuss the merits of such a facility in our community. As fate would have it, the bereavement professionals recognized this need and envisioned a similar facility. Together we approached like-minded individuals who have embraced the philosophy of Julien Gaudet’s House.”
Lady Gens start off girls slo-pitch season with a loss By Ron Giofu The result of their first game wasn’t what they wanted but the General Amherst High School girls slo-pitch team is hoping to progress as the season goes on. The Lady Gens welcomed the St. Thomas of Villanova Wildcats to Wigle Park last Thursday afternoon with the Wildcats coming away with a 22-10 win. The game ended early due to the mercy rule. “It was a hard fought game,” said General Amherst player Kayla Renaud. “We played as hard as we could. (Villanova) is a very good team.” Renaud said it was the first game in two years for many of the Lady Gens. She said they have to “fight through it and do what we need to do.” Many of the players were together in their Grade 9 year but haven’t played together since. “Most of our team is a brand-new team,” Renaud stated. “A lot of girls haven’t played in two years because of
COVID. We’re happy to get back on the diamond, that’s for sure.” Like most sports this year, the COVID-19 pandemic and the health restrictions that had surrounded it have resulted in a shortened season. The Lady Gens will only have six games to show what they can do and Renaud stated they want to have fun first and foremost, but also want to improve as the season goes on. “We need to get right back into it,” she said. The Lady Gens only had about two weeks worth of practice, and had to do so on grass as the game last Thursday was the first time they were allowed on the diamond due to wet conditions. They were supposed to open the season last Tuesday afternoon in Leamington against Cardinal Carter, but that game was rained out and rescheduled for May 16. Renaud believes they are good at fielding and also have good team speed, but they have to get their bats going and
General Amherst’s Mya Foreman stretches for the ball during girls slo-pitch action last Thursday at Wigle Park in Amherstburg. Villanova defeated the Lady Gens 22-10. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
get more hits. “That can definitely be worked on,” she said of their hitting. The Lady Gens were scheduled to be in action at home Tuesday afternoon – after this issue of the River Town Times went to press – against the visiting
Sandwich Sabres. They are also scheduled to host the Belle River Nobles today (May 11) at Wigle Park starting at 3:30 p.m. It is their final home game of the season as, after they travel to Cardinal Carter May 16, they go to Essex May 17 and Kingsville May 19.
12 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 11, 2022
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CABINETS
Advertise here for only $25.99*per week, plus tax. (Must run min. 4 weeks*) Call 519-736-4175 or Email sales@rivertowntimes.com AUDIOLOGY
Bernice A.
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McKenzie
Accounting Specialist
DOCTOR OF AUDIOLOGY, AUDIOLOGIST
Specializing in Canadian and US Taxes
Call to book an appointment.
519 713-9199
503 Sandwich St. S.
519-730-1030
www.YouHear.ca
REAL ESTATE
BOOKKEEPING AND TAXES
Laurie Cavanaugh
Amherstburg, ON cavanaugh_laurie@yahoo.com
Owner
PREFERRED REALTY LTD 80 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 1Z6 Each office independently owned and operated
JOHN HALL SALES REPRESENTATIVE CELL OFFICE
226.347.8956 519.736.1766
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INSURANCE
COMPUTERS
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Computer Data Products
“Service You Can Trust” Auto • Home Boat • Farm
80 Richmond St., Heritage Plaza
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JOHN COYLE
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Wednesday, May 11, 2022 – River Town Times – 13
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$
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00
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At this time, classifieds are only being accepted by emailing sales@rivertowntimes.com and payment is only being accepted by VISA/MASTERCARD
In Loving Memory of a Dear Husband, Father and Grandfather
It’s hard to believe it’s been a year already as of May 12, 2021. Sadly missed by
Lois, Christine (Christopher), Jeffrey, William and loving granddaughter Brittany.
~ May 10tt, 1952 ~
Leo & Dorothy Lucier
August 17, 1956 - May 11, 1999
Our hearts still ache with sadness, Our secret tears still fall. What it meant to lose you, No one will ever know. So those of you who have a brother, Love him while you may. Because we wish with all our hearts That we had our brother today.
Please join Janice, Kevin, David and Michelle as they celebrate the life of
TERRY McDONALD Sunday, May 15 1:00 - 4:00 pm at AMA Sportsmans Club, 468 Lowe Side Road, Amherstburg
Always in our hearts and thoughts, Anna, Linda, Vince and families.
NOTICES
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND OTHERS All claims against the estate of Freda May Bennett, late of the Town of Amherstburg, in the County of Essex, who died on or about the 7th day of February, 2021, must be filed with the undersigned personal representatives on or before the 29th day of May, 2022. Thereafter, the undersigned will distribute the assets of the said estate having regard only to the claims then filed. DATED this 20th day of April, 2022. Barbara Lynn Bondy Estate Trustee By her Solicitors, Baker Busch 41 Sandwich St. S. Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 1Z5
SUDOKU ANSWERS
Deadline for Classified Advertising in the River Town Times is Monday at 12 noon. SCRAMBLE ANSWER
DIRT
Congratulations Mom & Dad! Enjoy your day as we reflect on the life you built and shared with family and friends.
Pop in or stay a while. Snacks on hand. WANTED TO BUY
WANTED TO BUY
LOOKING TO BUY Older Gibson or Fender guitar. Call or text 519-567-4446. ______________________
FREE ESTIMATES - CASH for all Unwanted** Gold JEWELRY (even Broken), **Sterling flatware, **ALL GOLD + SILVER HELP WANTED COINS*, All MINT SETS, HERITAGE COMMUNITY *ALL ROLEX WATCHES RESIDENCE Assisted **+ windup watches + Living and Care Home. Sterling JEWELRY, some Flatware, We are looking to hire COSTUME, GUITARS. 9:00 am - 4:00 both full-time and parttime employees. If you pm, Friday, May 27 at K enjoy helping and working of C Hall, 190 Richmond St., Amherstburg. with people come join our Sunday, May 29, wonderful and friendly Essex Legion, 103 Talbot team. Located at 184 St. N., Essex. June 3 & 4 Victoria Street South, this Essex Railway Station, 87 is a beautiful home that is Station St., Essex. Dan very intimate, quaint and Jones B.A.B.Ed.54 years family oriented. Please Exp. House calls available contact usSCRAMBLE at 519-997- - ANSWER 519-818-1805. ______________________ 2081 if you would like further details. ______________________
DIRT
APT FOR RENT
CASA BLANCA & BELLA Vista 365-369 Dalhousie. Large, clean, quiet with security entrance. Laundry, patio or balcony, stainless steel appliances, parking. Centrally located to all amenities. Starting at $1395 utilities included. Call to view 519-9951565. ______________________
RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS WITH OVER 30 YEARS of renovation and construction experience I can ensure your project is completed professionally, correctly and with pride. Locally owned & operated. Steve 519-300-0961. ______________________
HOUSEKEEPER/DOG SITTER Must absolutely love dogs (2 small dogs) Household Duties: laundry, occasional cooking, cleaning, shopping, errands. Dog Duties: walking, bath, feed, take to vet, clean up and give meds. Hours: Monday - Friday 12-4 p.m., occasional evenings and weekends, occasional house sitting 1 to 2 weeks at a time. Ideal Candidate - Mature person in Amherstburg area. Must have a car (mileage paid). Send resume to: lhea.exec@gmail.com
SUDOKU ANSWERS
February 20, 1941 - May 12, 2021
Frank Ventura
Happy Celebration of Life 70thAnniversary
SUDOKU ANSWERS
John Stewart
In Loving Memory of our brother and uncle who passed away 23 years ago.
14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 11, 2022
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Kicks & Giggles ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Avoid going down the rabbit hole that can be social media, Aries. Put your phone or tablet to the side for a little bit and focus your attention elsewhere. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Try to stay calm and grounded right now, Taurus. Others can learn from your example at work, as you likely will be the voice of reason among your colleagues.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, if you are having trouble figuring out a path this week, try to meditate on a solution. Find a quiet spot and visualize your goals and how you can achieve them. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Be mindful of whom you confide in this week, Cancer. Not everyone has your best interests at heart and may use the information you share to his or her advantage instead of yours. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 A partner or close friend may seem to pull away from you this week, Leo. Don’t take it personally as it won’t be a permanent break. Soon things will be back to normal. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Sticking to your normal routine this week simply will not be possible, Virgo. Start brainstorming ways you can get things done more quickly. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, your ego may take a temporary hit as someone in your sphere gets a promotion or a recognition before you. Don’t take this to heart as it is only time before you get to shine. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Try not to trigger any people in your home who seem to be more tense than usual, Scorpio. It may be tricky, but keep the calm and maintain the status quo for now. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Well-meaning advice can backfire if it is offered unsolicited, Sagittarius. Unless someone comes to you seeking help, it’s best to stay silent for now. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Try to avoid any impulsive spending for the next several days, Capricorn. The temptation will be high, so this will be a bit of a challenge for you. Stick to the essentials. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, stay calm and keep your nose to the grindstone during a potentially hectic week. This may mean taking a day off or at least a step back. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Some truths are difficult to hear and swallow, Pisces. Only through learning all sides of the story can you grow as a person. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS MAY 8 - Melissa Gilbert, Actress (58) MAY 9 - Billy Joel, Singer (73) MAY 10 - Kenan Thompson, Comic (44) MAY 11 - Sabrina Carpenter, Singer (23) MAY 12 - Tony Hawk, Skateboarder (54) MAY 13 - Robert Pattinson, Actor (36) MAY 14 - Cate Blanchett, Actress (53)
WORD SCRAMBLE Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to gardening. ANSWERS ON PAGE 13
The Riverside Special Rangers organized the “Spring Spectacular” hockey tournament and it had three Amherstburg players. Two of them – only identified as Aidan and Naythan – are seen here with the third being identified as Josh. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
Hockey tournament for special needs players features three from Amherstburg By Ron Giofu
A hockey tournament featuring players with intellectual disabilities proved popular this year and also featured Amherstburg talent. The Riverside Special Rangers hosted a tournament recently at the WFCU Centre in Windsor. It featured 13 teams from across the province including teams from as far at the GTA, Grey-Bruce, Kitchener-Waterloo, Durham, Mississauga and Brampton. “This is called the Spring Spectacular, put on by the Riverside Special Rangers,” explained Cindy LaBrecque, team manager and also an Amherstburg resident. “It’s a special needs team. We take anyone from ages six and up.” LaBrecque said the three Amherstburg players – identified as Aidan, Naythan and Josh – enjoy playing on the team. The team did not disclose their last names due to them being in a vulnerable sector. “The three boys from Amherstburg have been involved since 2019,” said LaBrecque. “They love it.” The team usually participates in a large tournament in Kitchener over the Family Day weekend but that was cancelled again this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “Our coach (Doug Rivard) had the vision of putting on a tournament in April with the hopes that it wouldn’t be cancelled,” said LaBrecque. “We put it together in five weeks. It’s our first tournament in three years.” The pandemic still impacted attendance as between concerns over the virus and teams uneasy about the relaxing of public health restrictions caused some players and teams to drop out, but organizers were pleased overall. “There’s such a need for this,” said Rivard. Rivard credited LaBrecque and others with the team for helping to organize it, adding that other teams quickly snapped up the opportunity to participate. “They jumped on it,” he said. “They are having a great time. They wanted to come back.” There is no league locally for special needs players, Rivard added, as they usually try to schedule home-and-home series with teams from out-of-town, such as London. “We set it up,” he said of those games. “COVID shut it down.” There is hope to have a league of about two to three teams in the region in the near future. The Rangers play under the umbrella of the Canadian National Special Hockey association as well as the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA). “When they come out here, they leave all of their problems behind,” said Rivard. “They are so grateful. That part blows my mind. It doesn’t matter if they are 12 or 62.” Josh lost 35 pounds simply by walking around his Amherstburg neighbourhood, Rivard added. The goal was that he would be better on the ice. “It’s fun,” added Aidan, of playing, with his coaches adding he learned how to skate through his involvement with the team.
Wednesday, May 11, 2022 – River Town Times – 15
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Bulldogs finish out of the playoffs in WECSSAA boys soccer season By Ron Giofu The General Amherst Bulldogs’ boys soccer season is finished after a tie on their home field last week. The Bulldogs hosted the Cardinal Carter Cougars last Wednesday afternoon at the Libro Centre and the game ended in a 2-2 tie. Ethan Trocchi and Declan Veldhuis scored for the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs finished the season 1-2-2 with only two home games in Amherstburg. After losing at home to Essex and in Tecumseh in mid-April, they ended up in a 3-3 tie in Leamington April 25 after the Lions scored a last second goal. They also lost 2-1 in Kingsville May 2. A late goal in the game last week gave the Cougars the tie and General Amherst head coach Gavin Blunt said that was symbolic of the 2022 regular season. “It’s kind of how our season went,” said Blunt. Their goal differential was close, he added, noting they were in every game. “We didn’t lose a game by more than one goal,” he said. A bounce here and a bounce there made a difference in many games, Blunt added. Assistant coach Adam Robinson stated the tying goal against Cardinal Carter deflected into the net off of a General Amherst player. “Everyone played well,” said Blunt. “We had a couple of unlucky bounces. It was little things like that which prevented us from going to the playoffs. It’s tough because we had such a good team.” Blunt further stated the coaches believe the Bulldogs were “catching our stride at the right time.” He added they gave Cardinal Carter credits as they are a good team. “Unfortunately, I think we had one of the top teams
Carter Prieur of General Amherst jumps for the ball during a game against Cardinal Carter last Wednesday afternoon at the Libro Centre. The Bulldogs tied Cardinal Carter 2-2. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
(in the division) but the bounces didn’t go our way,” said Blunt. The coaches are proud of the way the players competed this season, he added, noting the compact, fivegame schedule was tough but they did get a chance to
return to the soccer pitch. The team will travel to Tilbury for a tournament this Friday and will close out their run as General Amherst Bulldogs. Next season, the returning players will help form the North Star Wolves soccer team.
Community Calendar
SATURDAY, MAY 14 GENERAL AMHERST 100TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION - Held at the school, 130 Sandwich St. S., from 12-7 p.m. Free to attend. Decade rooms, live & local music, food truck refreshments, school tours and more to enjoy. Donations accepted on site to enhance programming at North Star High School. For info, visit www.facebook.com/ GAHS100YearCelebration. ONGOING MISSION RE-OPENING FOR IN-PERSON MEALS The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., will return to serving meals on an in-person basis Monday, May 9. The mission will be open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with lunch served between 12-1 p.m. Mission’s food bank will be open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For more information, call 519-736-9140 or visit www.aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome.
FREE COMMUNITY MEAL - Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to join them Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free meal. Everyone welcome. Come meet others in the community and enjoy some good food. No registration required. Bring a friend! Lighthouse Church is located at 266 King St., with the entrance off of Gore St. RAPID TEST KITS - Free COVID-19 Rapid Antigen test kit distribution program being supported locally by the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce and Amherstburg Community Services. Since the inception of the program in May 2021, they have distributed over 13,000 free rapid antigen tests to 179 local businesses. More information can be found at https://amherstburgchamber.com/covid-19-rapidscreening-program/. Small and medium sized businesses with under 150 employees complete the Program Agreement form found at the above link and bring the completed form to Amherstburg Community Services between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to pick up test kits. They are currently distributing boxes of 25 test kits/per box. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED - Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@bryerswood. com. Thank you.
RIVER CANARD K OF C EVENTS - Join the River Canard K of C for bingo. Barbecues the first Friday of every month, take-out only. For information, call 519-734-8575. BOTTLE DONATIONS - The AMA Sportsmen Association continues to accept donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate their empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, located at 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For information, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706. ACS FOOD BANK - Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Tuesdays and Thursdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance. MISSION NEEDS DONATIONS - The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, located at 298 Victoria St. S., is in need of items. Among the items being requested are bleach, Lysol wipes, face masks, canned tuna, canned peas, canned cut green beans, canned peas & carrots, ketchup, egg noodles, sugar, powdered juice, canned fruit, honey, macaroni & cheese, Sidekicks, ranch dressing, kidney beans, peanut butter, jam, cookies and baggies. Monetary donations always welcome. For info or to donate, visit www.aburgmission.ca or call 519736-9140. FOUNDERS CLUB - Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to join the “Founders Club” to help them purchase the camp on Texas Road. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiples of squares are available for sponsorship. Tax receipts provided. For information, visit www.bryerswoodyouthcamp.com, call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com. AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES - Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-736-5471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Food Bank, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy Support Program & much more. Please call to see how we can help! GOLDEN AGE CLUB - The Fort Malden Golden Age Centre has returned to its usual schedule at the Libro Centre. Monday pepper, Tuesday euchre; Wednesday bridge, Thursday line dancing and cribbage and Friday pepper and bingo. Starts daily at 12:30 p.m. All welcome. For info, call 519-736-6188.
To place your event in the Community Calendar please email: mail@rivertowntimes.com
OHL draftee speaks at former elementary school Josh Lepain, who was a recent draftee of the Ontario Hockey League’s London Knights, returned to his former elementary school to encourage students not to give up and follow their dreams. Lepain spoke last Thursday afternoon to students at St. Joseph School, where his mother Michelle is also a teacher. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 11, 2022
MAY
www.rivertowntimes.com
Town facilities remain open pre-scheduled appointments are encouraged.
Renew your Fire Permit ONLINE! Amherstburgfire.com/burnpermit
Town Hall 519-736-0012 Building and Planning 519-736-5408 Infrastructure Services 519-736-3664 Recreation 519-736-5712
Are you on the Voters List? Voterlookup.ca
Watch Recorded Candidate Info Session Amherstburg.ca/ 2022candidate
Amherstburg Farmers Market 8728 Howard Ave, Amherstburg, ON Saturdays 8:30-1:30
WED
11 THURS
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Meeting 6:00 p.m. Council Chambers FREE Drop-in Indoor Pickleball 6-8 pm @ Libro Sponsored by:
TUE
Heritage Committee Meeting 5:30 p.m. Council Chambers Proclaimed Fibromyalgia Awareness Day
17 WED
Turf Tots @ Libro 9-11 am $3.50/child Ages 0-5 Let’s have FUN
Register for a Recreation Program today. 519-736-5712 amhertburg.ca/ recreation
12 FRI
13 SAT
Turf Tots @ Libro 9-11 am $3.50/child Ages 0-5
General Amherst FREE FUN-DAY Sunday Turf Tots @ Libro High School 100th 9-11 am Year Celebration $3.50/child Ages 0-5 Sponsored By
Proclaimed Fala Dafa Day
18 Thurs
FREE Drop-in Indoor Pickleball 6-8 pm @ Libro Sponsored by:
15 MON
14 SUN
Nomination Packages are NOW available for pick up at Town Hall. Filing begins May 2nd at 9 am. The process takes 30 minutes and must be done in person. Yard Waste South Zone
19 FRI
Thinking about running for Council in the 2022 Election? For information Amherstburg.ca/ Election
16
20
SAT
21
AMHERSTBURG OPEN AIR WEEKEND
Music Off The Back Porch Turf Tots @ Libro 9-11 am $3.50/child Ages 0-5
SUN
The Liverpool 4 Beatles Tribute Band FREE Concert in KNYP 7pm Yard Waste North Zone
Recycle
22
Yoga in the Park 10am Music in the Park 3pm NO TURF TOTS TODAY @ LIBRO CENTRE
PUBLIC NOTICE – PESTICIDE USE WITHIN THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG The Town of Amherstburg intends to control noxious weeds along the following rural roadsides: North of Alma Street – 2nd Concession N, 3rd Concession N, 4th Concession N, 5th Concession N, 6th Concession N, 8th Concession N, Alma Street, Texas Road, North Sideroad; South of Alma Street – 2nd Concession S, 4th Concession S, 5th Concession S, 6th Concession S, 7th Concession S, 9th Concession S, Lowes Sideroad, Creek Road, Malden Colchester South Townline Road, CKLW Townline Road, South Side Road, Collison Side Road, The Town of Amherstburg intends to control noxious weeds along the rural roadsides under their jurisdiction using the following pesticides registered under the Pest Control Products Act (Canada): Clearview Herbicide, which contains the active ingredients Aminopyralid, present as potassium salt and Metsulfuron - methyl (Registration Number 29752) in combination with Gateway Adjuvant, which contains active ingredients Paraffinic Oil, and Alkoxylated alcohol non-ionic surficants (Registration Number 31470). Navius FLEX Herbicide, which contains the active ingredients Metsulfuron – methyl and Aminocyclopyrachlor (Registration number 30922) in combination with Hasten NT Ultra Spray Adjuvant, which contains active ingredients Methyl and ethyl oleate (Registration Number 31760). We are controlling Noxious Weeds under Public Works Exception of the Cosmetic Pesticides Ban for the promotion of public health and safety. Please visit the www.amherstburg.ca for more information. Commencing on May 17, 2022 weather permitting and ending June 22, 2022. For more information, call collect: Green Stream 1-905-510-1229 Eric Chamberlain-Public Works, Town of Amherstburg 1-519-736-3664
519-736-0012 • www.amherstburg.ca 271 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2A5