River Town Times - February 21, 2024

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Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Arson investigation launched after fire burns townhouse

By Ron Giofu The Windsor Police Service states it is investigating a suspected arson that caused approximately $1 million in damages to two new Amherstburg homes.

Police say that shortly before 6 a.m. last Friday, officers responded to an active fire in the 700 block of Elliot Point Road, which is within the Kingsbridge subdivision. A newly built home was engulfed in flames when emergency crews arrived.

The home was fully destroyed in the blaze, and the roof of a neighbouring residence sustained significant damage.

The home is part of a townhouse development, with four homes part of the same structure. The unit on the north end of the structure nearest the intersection at McLellan Ave. sustained the bulk of the damage.

The fire is being treated as suspicious, say police.

The structure was vacant at the time of the incident, and police add no one was physically injured in the blaze.

Amherstburg deputy fire chief Ron Meloche said the call came in at 5:42 a.m. and it was a threestation response.

“The rest (of the homes are) still standing so that’s good from our view,” said Meloche.

Meloche said he was of the understanding the owner was just starting to move into the townhouse and had moved appliances in, but confirmed the home was not occupied at the time of the fire.

The cause of the fire is unclear at this point and the matter remains under investigation.

“We arrived to a fully involved structure fire,” said Meloche. “Crews did an amazing job.”

Continued on Page 2

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU The Baillargeon family and friends perform at the Kids Curing Cancer pasta dinner Sunday night at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery.

KCC raises cash for new MRI suite

By Ron Giofu

The biggest event on Kids Curing Cancer’s calendar was held over the weekend.

Kids Curing Cancer (KCC) presented its annual pasta dinner fundraiser Sunday night at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery. The kids of KCC are Lauren, Kierstyn and Ty Baillargeon and they present the annual event with the aid of their family and friends.

Its roots date back 11 years ago when Lauren wanted to raise $50 when her grandfather Dan Gerard was battling cancer. After her grandfather passed away, the event carried on.

“This is the biggest event Kids Curing Cancer runs every year,” said Lauren.

The pasta dinner concludes KCC’s fundraising year and they plan a cheque presentation near their grandfather’s birthday, which is March 8. Proceeds this year will go to Erie Shores Health Care and its drive to develop a new MRI suite.

“This is how we go out with a bang,” Lauren said, of the fundraising year. A total from Sunday was unavailable as of press time.

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Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery is undergoing renovations but allowed the KCC fundraiser this year, though it had to be scaled back from 250 people to 150 people.

“They worked closely with us,” said Lauren. “They have bent over backwards to help us out with this.”

Volunteers included friends and family and saw food donated, including the pasta and the desserts. The Baillargeon family credited Dan and Brad Sweet for their help as well as DJ Sav Asta, Mary Lippert from Sweet Moments Cookie Co. and Chef Don from 3D Catering.

Staff at the winery donated their time to be there, Lauren added.

Lauren added they have shifted their focus to “get ahead” of cancer by donating to the purchase of the MRI machine. That will allow for earlier diagnoses and an earlier jump on potential cancer treatments.

The South County Predators girls hockey program were part of this year’s KCC fundraising program and raised $10,000 in a two-week period. Lippert presented other fundraising events including vendor markets and selling cookie kits while a major fundraiser turned out to be in local schools.

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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 21, 2024

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Town council accepts cash in lieu for parking requirements

By Ron Giofu What began as a request for a payment in lieu of providing parking spots required under the zoning bylaw turned into the praising of a local developer for his work on a downtown building.

Town council agreed unanimously to receive a $9,700 payment from developer Adam Rossetto. One of the commercial units opened on the Ramsay St. side of the building and is Beauty by Bretton & Co. The other unit nearest the intersection is expected to be a restaurant/coffee shop.

In a letter sent to the town, Rossetto proposed that seven spots be “grandfathered in,” have two spots on the property, the two spots already approved last summer for the “cash in lieu of parking” program and the additional two “cash in lieu” spots that were eventually approved at the most recent meeting. That would satisfy the 13 total parking spot requirement.

Councillor Diane Pouget was the first to congratulate Rossetto on “a beautifully renovated building.” She wished Rossetto luck on his future enterprise, but asked administration what will be done with the money.

“Parking is at a minimum in the downtown core area. What do we plan on doing with that money and do we plan on providing parking in another area?” said Pouget.

Deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne stated the $9,700 will go into the town’s parking reserve for future projects. She said initiatives from the transportation master plan that is under development could eventually be funded from the reserve.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb thanked Rossetto “for becoming a steward of one of our historic buildings.”

Gibb noted the building dates back to 1835. He said as a member of the heritage committee, “it is always refreshing to see people who get what we’re trying to do to restore our heritage.”

The deputy mayor asked what the

Town council has praised the owner of 79 Murray St. for the work that was done on the building.

investment was in the building but Rossetto said he would rather keep that information private.

“Thank you very much for choosing Amherstburg and for choosing to save history in Amherstburg,” Gibb told Rossetto.

Gibb added “we have to be flexible” with such requests, adding the town’s strategic plan calls for “preserving our past and forging our future.”

Councillor Peter Courtney agreed that the restoration was welcome and he appreciated Rossetto’s investment, but added when business is done in Amherstburg “you look at the landscape” and what the obligations are.

“We’ve waived two spots already.”

Courtney said when the scope of the commercial business is changed to a restaurant, the demand for parking spots increases. He said that it is great for the downtown but “can be compromising for other businesses.” Accessible parking for residents was also an issue cited by Courtney, noting some people aren’t able to walk far distances.

“I’m apprehensive to keep cutting parking spots especially when we gave a two spot reprieve already for this development,” said Courtney.

A focus on “strategic parking spots” has to be done, Courtney added, and the overall landscape of all retailers and the

Fire in Kingsbridge being treated as suspicious

proximity to them. He did support the request after debate.

Osborne said there are zero parking requirements in the CG4 zoning across the street.

“I do love your building and it’s beautiful,” said Councillor Molly Allaire.

Allaire did question whether this issue sets a precedent for other building owners who want to pay in lieu. Osborne said it is site specific, noting when a development on the former Maria’s Restaurant was originally proposed, proponents were granted a cash in lieu of parking request.

Osborne added when the town tries to encourage economic development, there are tools for council to allow businesses to be economically viable.

Planner Sarah French added the planning department evaluates every proposal on its own merits. She added she did not believe the request at 79 Murray St. was precedent setting, noting it is a commercial heritage building near an area with relief from parking requirements.

Requests for cash in lieu of parking has to come to town council, French stated.

Councillor Linden Crain said “it’s a great spot for mixed use” that creates jobs and rental units. He said he was not willing to delay growth while the town waits for parking and traffic studies.

Councillor Don McArthur called it “a fantastic initiative” and was pleased to see what was done with the property.

McArthur said the town will gain property taxes and have a “stickier” downtown where people will stay longer in the area.

He said people come downtown for businesses and events and he also thanked Rossetto for his investment.

Mayor Michael Prue noted it is a historical property.

“I am very impressed,” said Prue.

“What you have done to restore that building, I didn’t think it was restorable.”

Prue called it “one of the most beautiful heritage buildings I could possibly imagine rising from what was there.” He said he is a fan of heritage and pushes that every chance he gets.

“If you need two parking spots to do that, I don’t have any problem with that,” Prue told Rossetto.

Prue added a tree on the property was saved and a residence is going upstairs.

“He has done everything else, in my view, so perfectly that I don’t have the slightest hesitancy in getting more money off of him,” said Prue.

The money will go into a fund and he said some day there will be a chance to put in parking elsewhere, he added, using the parking lot at Richmond St. and Ramsay St. as an example.

“I am totally in support of this,” said the mayor.

IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM THE BELLE VUE CONSERVANCY Belle Vue Conservancy Response to the Talk the Burg Survey Currently, Belle Vue is owned by the Town of Amherstburg.

Under the Amico/Loop proposal, they would take ownership of the manor and property. This would mean NO public access, other than what the business would allow. For the past 7 years, generous public donations have already been used in repairs to the house.

Two different angles show the damage a Friday morning fire caused to a townhouse on Elliot Point Road. One unit of the four-plex was gutted by fire while one other suffered damage.

Continued from Page 1

Because the neighbouring townhouse was also unoccupied, Meloche said firefighters were able to get inside of that and knock down the fire in the attic.

Fire suppression between the units also helped prevent its spread, he added.

Twenty-eight firefighters were on scene and none were injured, said Meloche. Firefighters were on scene roughly five hours.

Meloche said units were selling for between $650,000-$750,000 so between that and the damage to the other unit, he also issued a damage estimate of about $1 million.

Police investigators urge residents in the immediate area of the incident to check their surveillance or dashcam footage for possible evidence. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Windsor Police Arson Unit at 519-2556700, ext. 4330. They can also contact Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers anonymously at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.

If someone is an affected person in need of support, they can call Victim Services Windsor Essex County at 519-723-2711 or the Victim Assistance Unit at Windsor Police at 519-255-6700, ext. 4879.

The Conservancy supports the concept of a business utilizing the property as a hotel, spa, restaurant, etc. with the provision of guaranteed public ownership.

Belle Vue Conservancy encourages you, the public, to fill out the survey on the Town of Amherstburg web page “Talk the Burg” keeping this in mind. You will have to create an account with them to do so. We hope that you will take the time to review all the information provided before completing the survey. https://www.talktheburg.ca/bellevue If you have any questions, please contact the Conservancy at info@bellevueconservancy.com

Wednesday, February 21, 2024 – River Town Times – 3

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Grandparents Day a huge success at École St.-Jean Baptiste

By Donna Tuckwell

Grade 4 student Ayenna and her grandmother Tamara enjoyed their day together.

A different kind of line formed Feb. 12 at the front doors of École St.-Jean Baptiste in Amherstburg.

Rather than children lining up to start classes, it was grandparents lining up to start the afternoon with their grandchildren.

“Grandparents are so important in a child’s life; we need them and we need the values that they share. I am really impressed by the number of people that came today,” said principal Diana Bala.

The afternoon started off with arts and crafts to celebrate St. Valentine’s Day followed by a luncheon for all

to enjoy.

“Each grandparent and child do a painting or a craft so they both get to take one home,” said teacher Julie Laundenbach. “We usually do this around Christmas but we haven’t been able to do this event since COVID, so this year we are celebrating St. Valentines Day.” Lots of fun and laughter could be heard as both the children and grandparents showed off their artistic talents.

Grade 4 student Ayenna and her grandmother Tamara are enjoying their day together.

“I never got to do this with my children because I was always working so this time I’m taking the day off, I’m

not missing my grandchildren’s things too,” said Tamara.

“The children love it, the grandparents love it, so we are going to make it a tradition to celebrate St. Valentines, love week,” said Bala. “It’s about celebrating the contribution in the child’s life.”

Lucas is in Grade 7 at the school, and says he’s not really an artist but on good days maybe a little bit. He was sharing the day with his grandmother Alexis.

“Being kind to each other, sharing love with each other, keeping everyone together, those things are very important. Those are our values and we are teaching those values,” said Bala.

Essex-Windsor EMS aggressively recruiting

By Fred Groves Warden Hilda MacDonald said that the Essex-Windsor EMS has launched a campaign to get more paramedics.

Recent graduates and even those who live out of the area are being encouraged to join the ranks of Essex-Windsor EMS. MacDonald said during the Feb. 7 meeting of Essex County council that the campaign is geared towards the region being a great place to live and work.

“This council is putting more paramedic resources on the road

this year. We need to replenish the ranks,” stated MacDonald.

Black History Month recognized February is Black History Month in Canada and MacDonald encourages everyone to participate in the many local activities including those being put on at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum.

“Our region certainly has a history of Black Excellence stretching back 200 years,” she said.

MacDonald acknowledged during her remarks the contributions made by publisher and activist Mary Ann Shadd.

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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 21, 2024

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Draft of Transportation Master Plan increases walkability, cycling plan falls “quite short” I was quite excited for the town’s open house last Tuesday for the “Transportation Master Plan.” I spend a lot of time biking, walking, and running for sport, and would like to have the infrastructure in town to let me do more of this every day, for everyday activities.

Additionally, I’d like to live in a community where a 15-year-old can safely bike to both school and their job at McDonald’s, or where a retiree can walk/bike to a coffee shop, without fear of getting smoked by a car. Currently, a bike ride through town to the store, feels more like a game of real life Frogger; the

stakes of which are usually too high for me and I opt just to drive. And that’s me, a 25-year-old former cycling enthusiast who has literally biked across multiple countries; I imagine the decision is even more unattractive for less eager people.

Attending the open house, I was genuinely impressed by the plan for the downtown core. They’ve defined a plan, which, if implemented, would probably give Amherstburg the most walkable downtown in the region.

Traffic calming, curb bump-outs, raised intersections, and much more; they did an excellent job here!

However, when it comes to cycling, the transportation method I hold dear to my heart and is arguably the most viable alternative to driving, in my opinion, the proposals came quite short.

Yes, they did a decent job making lines on a map to fill in the many missing sections of Amherstburg’s cycling network, but they largely do not define what actual infrastructure those lines on the map should consist of. Are they on-street protected bike lanes? A painted shoulder? Is it just a driving lane shared with a car?

It leaves me to only wonder. An

effective cycling network requires detailed planning and holistic implementation. The plan being the prerequisite. In the coming months, I hope the plan matures and the missing aspects are clarified.

All the open house information and a survey is available at www.talktheburg. ca/transportation. I implore readers to review the open house slides and share their opinions. It’s your town too!

Thanks,

In response to “Town council unanimously supports street sign poppy plan.”

How appropriate is it to honour veterans but not ensure signs are large enough for them or other people with vision disabilities to read?

I e-mailed members of council in

advance of the Feb. 12 meeting and stated there is no mention in the report of accessible sign design or design standards.

I urged members to consider the fact that Highway Gothic typeface is mainly used throughout Canada and Ontario, including on provincial highways and

in cities including Windsor; it makes reading signs easier.

Mayor Prue did ask council to consider making the signs larger and mentioned that it didn’t cost any more money, but he could have made the motion himself especially since he passed the gavel.

Amid the claims that we are an inclusive community, possibly striving to become a designated “age friendly” community, it was deplorable to hear a question about the cost of bigger signs and an answer that there is an assumption there will be some additional costs.

Given the budget approval, how does anyone justify limiting funds for this expenditure? Besides, if the signs will slowly be replaced council could have directed administration to bring back a report on the cost with actual figures for larger and more readable signs.

When the town applied for a $100,000 grant for wayfinding signs, one of the project priorities it listed was “accessible, diverse, equitable and inclusive: The sign

design will take into consideration AODA requirements, MTO roadway recommendations and eligibility standards.”

Why were those priorities not incorporated for the poppy street sign designs? I have asked that the town’s procurement policy be updated to include more than the consideration of AODA training. The AODA Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulation states designated public sector organizations shall incorporate accessibility design, criteria and features when procuring or acquiring goods, services or facilities.

Council needs to make a stronger and more consistent commitment to removing barriers in our community.

Still, council’s motion will result in a celebration that will be a great photo op and a reminder to pay tribute to veterans even if the signs are too small for some to read.

—Dane Weaver Amherstburg

Street signs should be large enough for people to read easier

Memories of Yesterday...

Photos courtesy of the Marsh Historical Collection 80 Richmond Street Amherstburg 519-736-9191 • www.marshcollection.org

—Linda Saxon Amherstburg

Advocate pleased with recognition of veterans Celebrations on Richmond Street after the wedding of Orville R. Fondren and Miss Gladys Burns, 1922. The couple were married in Brantford and upon returning from their honeymoon were given a warm reception by the town. In this photograph the parade is in front of the Kemp Garage on the south side of Richmond Street just east of Oddfellows Hall. The west side of Wesley United Church is partially visible.

A carriage at the centre of the crowd has a sign that reads: “Look Who Just Got Married.”

Laura D’Alessandro SALES / CO-PUBLISHER

Ron Giofu

Congratulations to Amherstburg town council for consideration of reviewing the decision to include a poppy place card on town street name signs.

In realizing how our lives are shaped by the sacrifice made by our veterans, an opportunity of this calibre belongs to the community for all the right reasons.

This investment speaks to the town’s commitment to imparting the legacy of remembrance of Amherstburg’s fallen of all stripes who, steeled by conviction, gave up a piece of individuality to become a part of something larger than themselves!

Our veterans knew that they were doing the right thing when they filled

the ranks. In theatres of conflict and during peacekeeping missions, our veterans carried the day with courage, loyalty, and patriotism to distinguish themselves on the world stage!

Owing the privilege of remembrance stands to preserving the integrity of our Canadian democracy and to safeguarding those civil liberties that are often denied to so many the world over!

Remembrance is not only a tradition that has remained steadfast as a fabric of our Canadian history; it grows a community!

—Andrea Grimes Civilian Veterans Advocate Windsor

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Wednesday, February 21, 2024 – River Town Times – 5

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Transportation Master Plan subject of another public open house

By Ron Giofu Work is ongoing on the town’s Transportation Master Plan (TMP) and a public open house was held to gather opinions and community needs.

Representatives from the Town of Amherstburg and its consultants TYLin were on hand at the Libro Centre last Tuesday night to hear from residents on short-term and long-term ideas contained in the plan. The focus was primarily the downtown core and surrounding neighbourhoods, up to and including the areas surrounding the Libro Centre.

The objectives of the TMP were described as being to improve connectivity and travel choices by providing reliable and accessible options, improving the safety of transportation systems for all users, planning a transportation infrastructure to support season tourism fluctuations, encouraging use of active transportation and transit, planning transportation infrastructure that assists in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with the town’s transportation vision and goals, improving regional transportation and transit connectivity and supporting the movement of goods and services in the region.

“This is the second public open house for the Transportation Master Plan,” said Todd Hewitt, the town’s manager of engineering.

Hewitt said the most recent public open house was a chance for the consultants to present feedback heard at the first open house. That involved slowing vehicles down in the downtown core, making the town more pedestrian friendly and promoting active transportation and transit.

“This is really about public input,” said Hewitt, of the ideas currently in the plan. “It’s a chance for people to give opinions on what they like or don’t like.”

Among the ideas presented in the draft TMP are “slow zones” including raised intersections, speed “gateways” and mini-roundabouts. “Gateways”

The town held a public open house last Tuesday regading its upcoming Transportation Master

involve such items as centre medians, signage and speed bumps. Miniroundabouts are currently proposed along Gore St. at the intersections at King St. and Brock St. and Murray St., also at King St. and Brock St. Curb “bump outs” are also suggested to enhance public safety and walkability, which would see several intersections west of Sandwich St. S. extended into the street to reduce crossing distances.

Road improvements would vary depending on what type of road – local roads, collector roads or arterial roads – with local roads possibly enhanced with wider sidewalks and planting strips. Collector roads could see the wider sidewalks and planting strips with bike lanes as well with the arterial roads possibly enhanced with hedges, bike lanes, and buffer space separating bikes and travel lanes.

Three options were listed for Murray St. between Dalhousie St. and Ramsay St., including doing nothing, removing parking but keeping the driving lane and closing it to vehicles altogether.

Public transit improvements over the life of the plan could include extending service to other facilities and parks such as the Libro Centre and Jack Purdie Park and even creating a transit service fully owned and operated by the town as opposed to the current Transit Windsor project. Another longterm possibility proposed in the draft plan could even be a transit hub near

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Bill Wigle Park.

Improvements at the Simcoe St. and Meloche Road intersections could see the narrowing of travel lanes, marked crosswalks and implementing an all-way stop. Over the long-term should traffic volumes increase, the plan states that would trigger the need for eventual signalization.

Traffic operations by 2028 contain possibilities such as traffic signalization at Sandwich St. S. and Fort St., and optimized signal timing at Sandwich St. S. and Richmond St. and a possible closure on Murray St. between Dalhousie and Ramsay Sts. By 2023, the plan recommends traffic signals at Meloche Road and Simcoe St. and optimized signal timing along Sandwich St. S. at Alma St. and Simcoe St. By 2040, traffic signals are possible at Sandwich St. S. and North St., optimized signal timing and Sandwich St. S. and Simcoe St. as well as Front Road North and Middle Side Road, traffic signalization at Meloche Road and Alma St., and traffic signals at Alma St. and Fryer St./Tofflemire St. Hewitt acknowledged that everything proposed in the plans costs money and that future budgets would have to reflect items the town would wish to implement.

Amar Lad, team lead with TYLin,

said people are wanting safety improvements in such locations as the downtown core.

“What we’re hearing is a lot of excitement,” he said.

There is a need to slow speeds and help people get across the road more safely, he said, and much of that is the reason for the proposed “slow zone.”

Lad acknowledged a “handful of parking spaces” are proposed to be removed from the downtown core.

“They are adjacent to a lot of existing parking spaces that are under-utilized,” he believed.

Feedback from the second open house and the ongoing survey on the town’s Talk the Burg website (www. talktheburg.ca) will help shape the final plan that will be presented to town council. That could be presented to council later in the spring, with Lad stating there is a chance council could implement some short-term goals if they wish.

“We want to give council and staff an opportunity to test out some recommendations,” he said.

The TMP has been developed in conjunction with other plans the town is working on, said Lad, including an update of the Official Plan.

“This is not one plan standing in isolation,” he said.

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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 21, 2024

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Amherstburg Freedom Museum hosts panel discussion on empowering women

By Fred Groves “I can’t separate being a woman and being black. They are tied together.”

A powerful statement, but one that resonated in the atmosphere last Saturday afternoon at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum.

In conjunction with Black History Month, the museum hosted an open panel discussion with four professional and highly accomplished women in an event billed as Women’s Empowerment and Community Engagement.

The youngest of the four, Kaitlyn Ellsworth who made the comment, is a sixth generation of those who escaped slavery through the Underground Railroad.

Ellsworth has four university degrees and is currently the Black Student Co-ordinator at the University of Windsor.

“It’s very important for me to know who came before me and paved the way,” she said during the event that was held in the Nazrey A.M.E. Church which is a national historical site and a stop on the underground railroad.

The four-women panel also included author Irene Moore Davis, chair of the Black Council of Windsor-Essex, Leslie McCurdy and Rose Anguiano Hurst who is the executive director of the Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of

Leslie McCurdy, left; Irene Moore Davis, Kaitlyn Ellsworth, and Rose Anguiano Hurst participated in a panel discussion at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum last Saturday afternoon.

Special to the RTT

Windsor Inc. (WEST).

Prepared questions were asked by moderator Cari-Lynn Ristic who is a director with the Amherstburg Freedom Museum.

One query she had for the panel was – “what makes community engagement necessary?”

Addressing the large crowd in the church, Anguiano Hurst responded by saying: “We as women of colour can see injustice in our community. We have to build upon what women who came before us did.”

Ristic asked what institutional changes have to be made to empower women. Moore Davis said that more listening to what women actually want

Amherstburg Freedom Museum director Cari-Lynn Ristic was the panel’s moderator.

RTT Photo by Fred Groves

is the key.

“We have to move past that thin layer of politeness and give people a chance to be heard and understood.”

McCurdy’s father, the late Dr. Howard McCurdy was a social activist, politician and a university professor.

He was also a founder of the Canadian Civil Liberties Association.

Leslie McCurdy is a performance artist and is well known for writing and portraying Harriet Tubman.

McCurdy’s response to the query, what steps does someone take to be a community leader, she said, “things just fell into place for me. I wanted to

make a living as a performance artist.”

McCurdy was a dancer but after fracturing her hip, she became a playwright and actor and noted that there is little support for black theatre in the area.

“There is no support here for what I do. My strategy was to work independently,” she said.

Saturday’s event was one of several that are being hosted by the museum during Black History Month and was co-hosted by the River Bookshop. The museum is located at 277 King Street in Amherstburg.

As moderator, Ristic had three trivia questions for the audience.

They revealed three well known Black women.

The first was Yolande James a former Member of the National Assembly of Quebec, journalist, publisher and activist Carrie Best and activist and actor Kay Livingstone.

There were several questions for the audience and Moore Davis gave the advice of getting more accomplished if everyone works together and McCurdy, whose great-greatgrandfather helped build the Nazrey Church said, “don’t let fear stop you from doing the things you want to do.”

Concluding the panel discussion, Ristic thanked the women for being, “frank, transparent and honest.”

Jeremy Warnock (blue shirt) reads the annual report during the Friends of Fort Malden’s recent annual general meeting.

Friends of Fort Malden holds AGM

By Ron Giofu The Friends of Fort Malden took a look back at its most recent year.

The organization held its annual general meeting (AGM) earlier this month in the Commissariat. They reviewed their 2023 with Jeremy Warnock leading the review.

Warnock was president last year but Mark Feltoe became president later in the meeting. Warnock remains as treasurer.

“Last year was a bit of a different year,” said Warnock.

The Friends of Fort Malden’s largest annual fundraiser is the barbecue at Art by the River, but last year saw other events such as candlelight tours at Fort Malden National Historic Site with 50 per cent of the proceeds benefitting the Friends of Fort Malden.

Membership in the organization is still a priority, he indicated, and while happy with current membership, “we are looking for new blood and new ideas.”

The group wants to maintain the town’s historic value and promote it as well. He said they would like to put on new activities for people.

Alex Dale, interpretive officer with Fort Malden National Historic Site, updated the organization on what is happening there. He said a major flood recently took place where the dry ditches were filled with water thanks to a watermain blowout that had to be repaired.

A sewer line to the museum still needs replacing, Dale added.

Dale said they received about 99 applications for post-secondary student positions. They are “swamped” in terms of getting ready for the season, which begins May 18. He said they are looking to bring back events like the murder mystery and expand the Military Heritage Days back to two days.

Wednesday, February 21, 2024 – River Town Times – 7

www.rivertowntimes.com

Town council asks for report on swimming pool costs

By Ron Giofu Town council has asked for a report on what it would cost to build and maintain a new swimming pool in Amherstburg.

Councillor Molly Allaire asked for a report on a potential new swimming pool including the maintenance of a pool “so residents can be informed of it and council can make a decision on it.”

“It was a hot topic while campaigning and I think it’s very important to see how much it would cost our municipality especially with taxes increasing and everything going up,” said Allaire.

Councillor Don McArthur wanted clarity in the report, as he pointed out there is an indoor pool, a four-season pool, an outdoor pool and other factors to consider.

“The costs are going to depend on the location,” said McArthur. “It’s going to be a lot cheaper to put a pool at the Libro Centre, for example, because we could lower operating costs at the Libro as well as lower heating costs at the pool by doing smart stuff with energy. If you put it in Jack Purdie Park or in Centennial, you might not have the same benefits.”

The answer to the question of a pool is “many, many millions of dollars” particularly if the pool is indoors and “significant losses” on an annual basis, he added.

“Information is power but it’s an expensive proposition capital wise and

operating wise,” said McArthur.

Director of recreation, parks and facilities Heidi Baillargeon agreed it is an expensive project, noting the town could achieve savings if it were put at the Libro Centre due to the geothermal system there that could be accessed along with other energy saving measures.

Councillor Peter Courtney said there was a plan to put a pool next to the arena with an overhang, combination with the geothermal system and a possible tie-in with locker rooms in the building.

Courtney said that was part of the $50 million “Great Spaces, Great Places” plan that included the Libro Centre.

“I’d be interested in supporting it if they can leapfrog off of what homework was already done in putting it out there and using the geothermal heat to heat it in the cooler months,” said Courtney.

Allaire said she loved the idea of putting an outdoor pool at the Libro Centre due to the geothermal heating factors and wanted a high-level costing for such a project. She also wanted comparitors with other municipalities on maintenance costs.

The last outdoor pool Amherstburg had was the Lions Pool that was in the south end of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park. That was removed when 15 acres of land were sold to the Greater Essex County District School Board for the construction of North Star High School.

Ty, Kierstyn and Lauren Baillargeon stand with Mary Lippert and the dessert table Lippert prepared.

About 150 people attend KCC fundraiser

Continued from Page 1

A total of 14 Essex County schools held their own fundraisers or will be holding their own events for KCC and that has raised $14,000 so far with more events to come.

“Word got out there and it exploded,” said Lauren of the school events.

Lauren recalled suggesting a “loonie license day” when she was in Grade 5 but not being able to get that off the ground. Now, things have been reversed and the fundraising is going strong.

“It’s pretty cool to see that vision come to life,” she said.

Kierstyn said there were over 75 door prizes donated for the dinner. She pointed out $168,000 was raised in the first ten years of the event.

Over the first decade of the event, KCC has assisted the patient assistance fund at the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation, the Fight Like Mason Foundation and the Ronald McDonald House.

Ty said the MRI machine is very

much needed and will help many area families.

The Baillargeons say their family and network have grown over the years and they get a lot of help from the community.

“It’s not three kids from Amherstburg anymore,” said Ty. “It’s everyone.”

Kierstyn added the fundraisers have allowed them to meet new people and make many new friends.

Penny Bellhouse, executive director with the Erie Shores Health Foundation, said it is a $5 million project with the government funding helping to pay for staff and electricity while the rest has to be raised.

“This is incredibly special,” she said of the KCC fundraiser. “All of the endeavors they have taken on this year have been so impactful.”

Bellhouse said health care is a community effort.

“Anytime you can have events like this are reasons we can have health care in our community,” she said.

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8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 21, 2024

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Leardi hosts “coffee house” events to meet with constituents

By Ron Giofu

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi is making his way around the riding and has been sharing coffee with residents.

Leardi has been conducting a series of “coffee house” events around the riding with events last week being in Amherstburg, Essex and Kingsville. Future events include LaSalle and Lakeshore.

The Amherstburg “coffee house” was last Friday evening at Downtown Espresso where the Member of Provincial Parliament chatted with constituents and supporters, fielded questions and met one-on-one with them.

“On the supportive side, people think the government is doing a great job of attracting investment to Ontario,” said Leardi. “People are very pleased with the government’s initiative to attract people into the skilled trades.”

According to Leardi, people are pleased with the widening of Highway 3.

On the “to do” list, this issue of creating enough housing remains a priority.

“People want the government to expand the housing supply because there is not enough housing,” said Leardi. “I got the same message in Essex. I got the same message in Kingsville.”

Measures are being taken to help resolve the housing

A group of Amherstburg residents met with Essex MPP Anthony Leardi during a “coffee house” event at Downtown Espresso.

crisis, the Essex MPP stated.

“One of the positive things is the provincial government and the federal government agreed to remove HST on new builds,” said Leardi.

The provincial government has now allowed residents to make a part of their homes an apartment, with Leardi using an example of people who wish to convert their basements into an apartment or a mother-in-law suite.

He said municipalities used to have the authority to refuse such developments, but now they are not able to do that.

“Now, you can do it as a right, which means the municipality cannot stop you,” said Leardi. “Now, people can create homes for their kids. Before, the municipality could prevent you from doing that. Now you have the right to do this because the provincial government gave you the right to do it.”

Leardi said if a couple is downsizing and sells their house to move into such a unit, it could free up another home and allow it to go on the market.

“Is this going to solve everyone’s problem? No,” said Leardi. “But it will help a lot of people.”

Other accomplishments Leardi highlighted were the removal of license plate sticker fees, which he said will save people $240 per year. He added they have also lopped ten cents off of the price of gas. While there are no toll roads in this area, Leardi added there are now no tolls anywhere in Ontario.

“These are all measures to help people with affordability,” said Leardi. “We’re the only government that has reduced taxes. We believe in putting money in people’s pockets.”

There were over 25 people at Downtown Espresso, the highest number Leardi reported for any of the first three “coffee house” events. He said they had roughly half that number in Essex or Kingsville.

“Amherstburg is always the biggest turnout,” he said.

“Ford City Funnies” event to fundraise for Amherstburg Freedom Museum Special to the RTT A special night of comedy is happening Feb. 24 in Windsor with a portion of the proceeds from the show being donated to the Amherstburg Freedom Museum.

The February edition of the Ford City Funnies comedy show taking place at Club 9 Banquet Hall at 1457 Drouillard Road is one of the many Black History events taking place

across the region this month.

The live stand-up comedy show will feature talented comedians with ties to the Detroit area. Host Shawn Townsend grew up in Detroit, but currently calls Windsor his home.

Feature comedian Bella Hugley is originally from Detroit and is looking forward to a homecoming for fans and friends, as she flies in from Georgia.

Hugley is known for a quick wit, infectious energy, and a knack for finding

humor in everyday situations.

Headliner T.Barb is a fast rising comedian, author of two books, a motivational speaker and philanthropist.

“One of the great things about living in a border city is being able to have great nights of entertainment in two different cities and countries that appeal to people from both sides of the water that separates us,” T.Barb explained.

“I am looking forward to headlining a show for my Canadian fans and giving

them a night of laughs to remember.”

Tiffany “T.Barb” Barber is a comedian and actress who quit her 14-year social work career to pursue her dreams. She has headlined The Motor City Comedy Festival, The Detroit Women of Comedy festival twice and also participated in the Traverse City Comedy Festival.

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Wednesday, February 21, 2024 – River Town Times – 9

www.rivertowntimes.com

Report to come to council in March on Open Air Weekends status

By Ron Giofu Let the 2024 debate on Open Air Weekends begin!

Town council was contacted by a Dalhousie St. business owner, and it sparked the first round of debate on this year’s Open Air program.

Dave Doherty from Flow Café & Bikes sent council an e-mail with that sparking the discussion on Open Air Weekends and associated street closures. Doherty’s e-mail centred more on the TRUE Festival, but the festival uses the same footprint as Open Air Weekends.

Doherty said they were a new business in 2023 and planning was done for Open Air Weekends when they opened.

He said they were at least visible from the footprint.

Doherty stated at the TRUE Festival, there were giant igloos were added to the street “and completely blocked all traffic or even a view of our business and we were left no choice but to close our doors and not take part in an event we wanted to be a part of.”

Doherty added: “Of all the weekends we have been open, only during the car show have we been included in the footprint,

our revenue on that day was 4.3-times any other weekend.”

Doherty’s told the RTT he is supportive of Open Air Weekends but wants to be included in the footprint. His e-mail was used with his permission.

Councillor Molly Allaire brought the issue forward at town council with deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne stating a challenge with moving the barriers is that the entrance to the Queen Charlotte Condominiums is roughly at that location.

“I have actually reached out to one of the owners of that business and advised that we are looking at various options and means to address this,” said Osborne. “For right now, that is one of the challenges.”

Allaire said she has had several businesses reach out regarding to the footprint.

“I was under the impression a report would be coming forward because if we are approving events, we have to approve that event as well,” said Allaire.

Allaire added she is trying to help the business be able to speak to the matter. She said she assumed the funding alone was voted on during budget deliberations.

Councillor Don McArthur said the business wants the footprint to grow.

“Just to be clear, they want to make it bigger,” said McArthur. “They love Open Air. They were very disillusioned that they weren’t included in the footprint for the TRUE Festival.”

McArthur added: “They want to be part of Open Air. They feel that energy. They feel that buzz,” he said.

Council settled the issue before budget, McArthur said, and had “a big knockdown, drag-out debate. We didn’t talk about it at budget time. We’ve already discussed this.”

Councillor Diane Pouget disagreed, stating council didn’t discuss Open Air. Pouget said it’s “not just a festival” but a “shutdown” of streets for three days per week over the summer month.

“This has to come back to council. Not once did council agree that it would be for another year, 16 weeks of shutdown for all streets. This definitely has to come back to council. We can’t allow this to happen.”

Councillor Peter Courtney said another “prominent” business person e-mailed council and questioned the frequency.

“I think it’s an evolution of poking, prodding and trying to see what the best scenario is,” said Courtney. “I think it should be revisited – not to get rid of

Open Air but to talk about the frequency again. It’s frustrating and tiring but it’s very important.”

Courtney added: “Open Air will continue on. It’s in what fashion.”

Mayor Michael Prue suggested a report come back in March. Prue said he didn’t recall putting parameters on Open Air but did recall giving money towards the event.

“Let’s have staff look through the budget, look at what was said and what motions were made, and bring it back two cycles from now on March 25,” said Prue.

Clerk Kevin Fox said last year, town council authorized CAO Valerie Critchley to approve exemptions and permits for Open Air Weekends including noise bylaw exemptions and road closures.

Critchley said she will bring back a report for the March 25 meeting.

“We’ll have a very good discussion on that day on what we can do,” said Prue.

Councillor Linden Crain wondered if Critchley can authorize the barriers could be moved.

“I want to go back and look at all of the resolutions so that we are clear on what was decided and what remains outstanding,” said Critchley.

Family Day celebrated at Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Museum Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Museum president Gary Struhar conducts a tour.

By Ron Giofu Agriculture from the past was celebrated on Monday in McGregor.

The Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Museum was open on Family Day and welcomed large crowds of people to the point where the amount of people surprised

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museum president Gary Struhar.

“It’s actually busy,” said Struhar. “A lot of people.”

Struhar said he sponsored much of the event with board member Brenda Allen also being among the other sponsors. They hoped for a nice crowd but ended up getting approximately 80 people.

Continued on Page 15

10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 21, 2024

www.rivertowntimes.com

GREATER ESSEX COUNTY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT CHARGES TO APPLY IN THE COUNTY OF ESSEX AND TOWNSHIP OF PELEE NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETINGS To be held at Greater Essex County District School Board Board Room, Second Floor 451 Park Street West, Windsor, Ontario FIRST MEETING – POLICY REVIEW PUBLIC MEETING – TUESDAY MARCH 19, 2024 @ 7:00 P.M. TAKE NOTICE that on March 19, 2024, the Greater Essex County District School Board will hold a public meeting pursuant to Section 257.60 of the Education Act. The purpose of the meeting will be to review the current education development charge policies of the Board and to solicit public input. Information concerning the policy review for the Board’s current education development charge by-law will be available on or before March 4, 2024, at the Board’s administrative offices during regular office hours and on the Board’s website at www. publicboard.ca.

IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWED BY SECOND MEETING – SUCCESSOR BY-LAW PUBLIC MEETING – TUESDAY MARCH 19, 2024 @ 7:15 P.M. TAKE NOTICE that on March 19, 2024, the Greater Essex County District School Board will hold a second public meeting pursuant to Section 257.63 of the Education Act. The purpose of the second public meeting is to consider the continued imposition of education development charges in the County of Essex and the Township of Pelee and a successor by-law, and to inform the public generally about the Board’s education development charge proposal. The education development charge background study required under Section 257.61 of the Education Act (including the proposed EDC by-law) setting out the Board’s education development charge proposal will be available on or before March 4, 2024, at the Board’s administrative offices during regular office hours and on the Board’s website at www. publicboard.ca.

THIRD PUBLIC MEETING – IN CONSIDERATION OF BY-LAW ADOPTION – APRIL 2, 2024 @ 7:00 PM TAKE NOTICE that on April 2, 2024, the Greater Essex County District School Board will hold a third public meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to consider the enactment of a successor education development charges by-law that will apply in the County of Essex and the Township of Pelee.

All interested parties are invited to attend the public meetings. Details on how to observe the meetings virtually will be available on the Board’s website, www.publicboard.ca.

Any person who attends the meeting(s) may make a representation to the Board in respect of these matters. The Board will also consider any written submissions. All submissions received in writing and those expressed at the public meetings will be considered prior to the enactment of an education development charge by-law.

The Board would appreciate receiving written submissions one week prior to the public meetings, so that they may be distributed to Trustees prior to the meetings. Submissions and requests to address the Board as a delegation should be submitted to: Melissa LeBeouf Office of the Director of Education Greater Essex County District School Board 451 Park Street West, Windsor, Ontario Telephone: (519) 255-3200, Ext. 10259 Email: Melissa.LeBeouf@publicboard.ca Please contact Shelley Armstrong, Superintendent of Business and Treasurer, Greater Essex County District School Board, at (519) 2553200, Ext. 1020 or Shelley.Armstrong@publicboard.ca, with any comments, requests for further information, or if you wish to address the Board at any of the meetings.

Vicki Houston Director of Education

Wednesday, February 21, 2024 – River Town Times – 11

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Wolves repeat as WECSSAA “AA” girls volleyball champs

By Ron Giofu The North Star Wolves have once again captured the WECSSAA “AA” senior girls volleyball championship.

The Wolves defeated the Belle River Nobles 25-15, 25-10 and 25-11 last Thursday evening in the finals at St. Clair College to win the title. That is the second in as many years under the North Star banner, and fifth overall dating back to the program’s roots at General Amherst High School.

The Wolves overcame a slow start and pulled away in the first set and took command of the match in the next two to complete the sweep. The Wolves were 8-0 in WECSSAA Tier 1 regular season play while Belle River was 8-1 in Tier 2.

“It was a challenge for Belle River to come up from Tier 2,” believed North Star head coach Jeff Miller.

Miller said the speed of the match was a factor, even for the Wolves, but once North Star got used to it, they were able to take over.

“It took us a while to adapt to the game but when we got used to the different speed level, we got more comfortable as the match went on,” said Miller.

Miller was pleased the team won another WECSSAA title, noting the roster turnover from year-to-year but this year’s players able to get another win. The Wolves are missing two of their

North Star co-captains Lauren Essenpreis (left) and Emily Beauregard show the WECSSAA “AA” championship plaque.

The North Star Wolves captured the WECSSAA “AA” senior girls volleyball championship last Friday night at St. Clair College. Top row (from left): coach Jeff Miller, Addison Prieur, Lily Mulder, Audrey Dib, Abby Beaudoin, Jerzie Rego, Peyton Meloche, Lillian Mereszak, coaches Mary Ewer and Mya Foreman.

Front row: Morgan Hadfield, Lauren Essenpreis, Emily Beauregard and Briana Renaud.

best players – Addison Prieur and Lillian Mereszak with season-ending knee injuries – but the remaining players have adapted to new roles.

“Other than our outside hitters, our players are playing out of position,” said Miller.

Assistant coach Mary Ewer pointed out not only was it the fifth straight WECSSAA title, but 14th since she and Miller started coaching the program.

“I’m so proud of them,” said Ewer.

“They did an amazing job.”

Co-captains Lauren Essenpreis and

Emily Beauregard accepted the championship plaque.

“We never played Belle River before,” said Essenpreis, adding they were prepared nonetheless.

Beauregard said it felt “amazing, so good” to win the championship. She said the team has had its challenges this season due to injuries.

“We had so many players step up,” added Essenpreis. “Everyone worked together and we reached our goal.”

The Wolves fought off the Riverside Rebels last Tuesday night in the

semi-finals. North Star needed four sets, winning 25-14, 25-15, 16-25 and 25-17.

“I thought we played fantastic in the first two sets,” said Miller. “Our level of play dropped considerably in the third set and Riverside played really well.”

The Wolves played to their personnel, he added, and finished the match the way they are capable of playing.

North Star now sets their sights on another goal, and that is the SWOSSAA “AA” championship. The regional volleyball championship will take place on the road against Lambton Central Collegiate & Vocational Institute (LCCVI). LCCVI won their league title with a 25-18, 25-23, 23-25 and 25-17 win over Wallaceburg last Friday.

Hockey season concludes at North Star High School

By Ron Giofu Hockey season at North Star High School has come to a close.

Both the boys and girls team lost their playoff games last week in very similar fashion. The two teams travelled to Tecumseh on back-to-back days and lost one goal games to L’Essor. The boys were first, as they headed on the road last Wednesday.

The boys WECSSAA quarterfinal game went to overtime but the Wolves lost to L’Essor 5-4. L’Essor moved onto the semi-finals this week against the Belle River Nobles while North Star saw their 2023-24 boys hockey season conclude.

Coach Glen Holden said it was “an outstanding effort” but the Wolves season came to an end. Steven Desantis started the scoring after a great pass from Ryken Atherton.

Kyle Jones would add another goal in the first period to put the Wolves up 2-0. Playing with a short bench, Holden said the Wolves appeared fatigued in the second period and L’Essor would tie things up heading into the third period. The action was back and forth for the rest of the

North Star’s Tyler Lamarche (18, white jersey) looks for a scoring chance in front of the L’Essor goal during last Thursday’s WECSSAA playoff game. L’Essor won 2-1.

game and each time North Star scored, L’Essor would tie it up before they eventually won in overtime. Rounding out the scoring in the third was Ryken Atherton and Ryan Reid. Adding assists were Wyatt Jackson, Desantis and Ryan Grondin. Holden gave a special shout out to student manager, Jack Schmidtgall. Holden and assistant

coach Chris Bastien recognized seniors Atherton, Cole McGrath, Jones, Desantis, Grondin, Austyn Deschamps, Tiago Goncalves, and Tyler Gignac.

The next day, the girls team made the trip to Tecumseh Arena and they ended up falling by a 2-1 final score.

L’Essor scored a goal in each of the first two periods of the hockey game with Ashley Mongeau scoring late in the third period to keep her team in the game.

The Wolves couldn’t get the tying goal despite their net empty for the extra attacker.

“I think it was a good thing to see everyone playing so hard,” said Madison Drouillard. “No one on our team gave up.”

Drouillard and Hannah Coulson are the two seniors who will be graduating later this year.

“We’re so proud of the girls,” said Stephanie Mongeau, who was one of the teacher advisors along with Courtney Bondy. “They did not take a shift off. We’re extremely proud of how hard they fought.”

Four players and two coaches were unable to attend last Thursday afternoon’s girls hockey game.

Wednesday, February 21, 2024 – River Town Times – 12

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Wednesday, February 21, 2024 – River Town Times – 13

Community Calendar

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 NATIONAL CHILI DAY; Amherstburg Community Services’ “Feast with Friends” luncheon celebrates National Chili Day at the Amherstburg Community Hub, 320 Richmond St. Meal and program costs $9. Runs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 519-736-5471 to reserve your seat.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 PASTA FUNDRAISER; Held at Wolfhead distillery, 7781 Howard Ave., holding a “Give Back” pasta fundraiser from 4-8 p.m. Bring $20 or a bag of non-perishable food items and receive a pasta dinner. All donations go to the Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) food bank. Reservations required.

open at 5 p.m. Appetizers include European pickerel soup, water buffalo chili and salad/ buns. Dinner features elk stew, venison sausage, kangaroo stir fry, spicy water buffalo curry, bison stroganoff, wild boar meatballs and spaghetti, ostrich casserole, rabbit cacciatore, ocean perch, crocodile bites, broasted chicken, vegetable medley and broasted potatoes. For tickets or info, visit www.catchcrooks.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13 ESSEX COUNTY FIELD NATURALISTS CLUB MEETING; Club meets every second Wednesday of the month. Next month meeting is at Point Pelee Visitor Center at 7:30 p.m. at Point Pelee National Park. Topic is “Soar into the Canopy: The Southern Flying Squirrel Monitoring Program at Point Pelee National Park.” Join us for a hands-on presentation, as we unveil the captivating world of Southern Flying Squirrels and the ways that Point Pelee National Park has monitored their population since their re-introduction to the park in 1993 and 1994. All are welcome. Free to public.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23 TIM’S FAMOUS CHILI DINNER; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission invites the community to come and enjoy Tim’s Famous Chili Dinner with the fundraiser being held from 5-8 p.m. Chili comes with coleslaw, rolls, coffee/tea & dessert. Adults $15, children under 12 $8. For tickets, stop by the mission and SATURDAY, MARCH 23 see Violet or Kim, or call 519-736-9140. The YARD/BAKE SALE; First yard and bake Sale mission is located at 298 Victoria St. S. of 2024 for Erie Wildlife Rescue! One day only.

10 a.m.-3 p.m. All indoors at 11168 Tecumseh FRIDAY, MARCH 1 Rd E, Windsor. Erie Wildlife Rescue (EWR) is a WILD GAME DINNER; Held as a fundraiser registered charity. EWR receives no operating for Crime Stoppers Windsor-Essex County. funds from the government. Your support of this Held at Colasanti’s Tropical Garden, 1550 event will contribute to the purchase of food, Road 3 East, in Ruthven. Buffet style, cash bar, caging, medical supplies and services for local raffles, silent auction. Tickets $75 each, doors wildlife in need of care.

CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING (Revised Meeting Date): TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting on Monday, March 25, 2024 commencing at 5:00 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 1999-52, under Section 34 of the Planning Act. ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than Thursday, March 21, 2024. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca. Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.

ANY PERSON who wishes watch the meeting proceedings only, please visit http://video.islive.ca/amherstburg/live.html THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT: This rezoning application affects the definition of supportive community home. This use is listed as a permitted use in the Residential Second Density (R2) Zone and was added to the Zoning By-law in 1990 for a development at 184 Victoria Street South.

ONGOING ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month in the community room at ACS at 6 p.m. New members welcome.

For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@ gmail.com or call Susanne at 519-990-2775.

www.goldenagecentre.ca to see how to join and participate.

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. Senior dance, 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month ($12 donation).

Serving burgers and fries for purchase Mondays12-2 p.m., Bingo Thursdays at 7 p.m., YARN DONATIONS WANTED; Resident Fish Fry on Friday (includes chicken) from 4:30looking for yarn donations as she knits beds for 6:30 p.m., eat-in/take out. All welcome. the Windsor-Essex County Humane Society.

Drop-off yarn at Royal Canadian Legion Br. FREE COMMUNITY MEAL; Lighthouse 157 or call Pinky (Deborah Barnett) at 519- Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, 995-4057 for pick up. invites the public to come Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. All welcome. Come meet MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg others in the community and enjoy some good Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels food. No registration required. Lighthouse assists those unable to shop for food and cook Church is located at 266 King St. (entrance off meals. Also available to those recovering from Gore St.). illness or surgery. Healthy, affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING McGregor and LaSalle residents. ACS caters to SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presenting dietary needs. Cost $7.50 per meal. Call 519- mental health and counselling services at The 736-5471 for details.

House Youth Centre. Runs every Wednesday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people between the GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, ages of 12-25. The House is located at 320 Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at 179 Richmond St. For details, call 519-800-8640.

Victoria St. S., offers social activities five days a week, $10 a year to join. There are over BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen 160 members who have fun playing euchre, Association accepts empty beer/wine bottles. pepper, bingo, cribbage, and bridge and People who donate their empties can drop them doing line dancing. We also have three special off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road luncheons and a Christmas party. You pick in Amherstburg. For information, visit www. which activities you want to participate in. Visit amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.

This rezoning, if approved, will amend the existing definition of supportive community home from “means a residential building with central kitchen, administrative, and possibly medical, facilities and a number of housekeeping units or rooms where not more than 20 senior citizens reside and receive care consistent with their needs, either by on-site staff or through the visitation of various health care professionals” TO “means a residential building with central kitchen, administrative, and possibly medical, facilities and a number of housekeeping units or rooms where the number of residents are limited to the number permitted by all applicable law, including but not limited to Ontario Building Code and Ontario Fire Code, for the existing structure as of the date of this by-law, for occupants to reside and receive care consistent with their needs, either by on-site staff or through the visitation of various health care and support professionals.”

The effect of the amendment will bring the definition up to current standards in that the Town can regulate land and property but not the tenancy of a parcel. The amendment will also allow for the capacity of existing structures in the building as regulated by all applicable law.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment by email to the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for drop-off at the Libro Centre located at 3295 Meloche Road. Comments must be submitted by Thursday, March 21, 2024 before the meeting and will be read aloud prior to the application being heard by Council.

NO PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY shall be added as a party to the hearing of the appeal unless, before the bylaw was passed, the person or public body made oral submissions at a public meeting or written submissions to the Council or, in the opinion of the Ontario Land Tribunal, there are

reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party.

IF A PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Town of Amherstburg before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there is reasonable grounds to do so.

Further information relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/04/24) Amendment is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is also available for review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca. If you wish to be notified of the passage of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make a written request to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca.

For Council and Committee Agendas and Meetings, visit amherstburg. ca/calendar. To subscribe to Council & Committee Agendas, visit Amherstburg.ca/calendar and click SUBSCRIBE. DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 21st day of February, 2024.

Christopher Aspila, Manager, Planning Services Town of Amherstburg, Libro Centre 3295 Meloche Road, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8 Telephone: 519-736-5408, Fax No. 519-736-9859 Website: www.amherstburg.ca Information will be gathered in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). All comments and communications received will become part of the public record unless you expressly request the Town to remove it. If you want to learn more about why and how the Town collects your information, write to the Town Clerk’s Office, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A5 or call 519-736-0012.

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He tried so hard to stay with us, but his fight was not in vain, God took him to His loving home and freed him from the pain.

Lovingly Remembered by

Mom, Dad & Family

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Wednesday, February 21, 2024 – River Town Times – 15

www.rivertowntimes.com

Back-to-back wins for Admirals over the Walpole Island Wild

By Fred Groves For the first time this season, the Amherstburg Admirals have back-to-back wins.

Saturday night at the Libro Centre, the hosts doubled the Walpole Island Wild 6-3. That comes on the heels of a 7-4 come-from-behind victory against the same team Thursday night at Walpole Island.

“It’s nice, definitely we’ve come a long way since the beginning of the year. It’s something we should be doing,” said Admirals head coach Beau Hunter.

The Admirals improved to 10-31-0-0 and will probably finish sixth in the eight team PJHL West Stobbs Division.

The Admirals wrap up their 42-game regular season schedule at home Saturday against the Essex 73’s beginning at 7:30 p.m.

At home Saturday, the Wild scored first and held a slim 1-0 lead after 20 minutes on Aaron Highfield’s power play goal. Amherstburg was assessed four minor penalties in the first period, one of those coming when they had the man advantage.

“We took a couple of bad penalties that took away our powerplays. There is no need for that. Going into the playoffs we can’t have that happen,” said Hunter.

Amherstburg came out quick in the second period and

Admirals’ forward Layne Crispin, left; moves the puck against the Wild in Saturday night’s PJHL game. RTT Photo by Fred Groves

scored back-to-back tallies just 49 seconds apart to put the hosts up ahead; they would not relinquish the lead the rest of the game. Finnigan Russett tied it up and then veteran Connor Demelo made it 2-1.

It was 3-1 on the nicest goal of the night. Russett hit Owen Papulkas with a stretch pass up the middle and he made no mistake, going in alone and backhanding it past Wild goalie Mitch Rawlings.

Conner DeBoot scored for the Wild just 13 seconds into the third which certainly caught the Admirals off guard.

“It was a lack of awareness on defence and a couple of bad plays caused turnovers,” noted Hunter.

The Admirals responded quickly and 40 seconds later Papulkas got his second of the night. Layne Crispin scored back-to-back including an empty netter to clinch the win.

The line of Russett, Papulkas and Crispin accounted for five of the Admirals six goals.

“It’s awesome,” said Hunter of seeing another line step up. “We rolled four lines tonight and it shows we can trust anyone on the team. It’s nice to see.

It was a big game on the blueline for rookie Travis Knight who had three assists and goalie Josh Courtney, getting his first start after an injury, turned away 25 shots.

Thursday night in Walpole Island, the host Wild were up 2-0 after 20 minutes but the Admirals came back.

Scoring for Amherstburg were Russett and Jacob Archer each with a pair and a helper, blueliners Braeden Armstrong and Jaxon Boucher and Stefan Jacobs. Russett has seven points in his last three games.

Goalie Joe Costea got his fifth win of the season in last Thursday night’s game as he made 31 saves.

Amherstburg were hit with four unsportsmanlike penalties on the night.

Approximately 80 people attend Family Day event in McGregor

Continued from Page 9

“This is the first year,” Struhar said of holding a Family Day event. “I just wanted to do something.”

In addition to free tours of the museum, there were free hot dogs, chips, crafts and small rides for children.

“Keep the kids happy,” said Struhar.

Struhar said the intent was help market the museum, located on Concession 11 just east of Walker Road, as the president said many people still didn’t know they exist. Some even thought the big green barns on the Co-An Park property were to store park equipment.

Local municipalities and their representatives helped out as well, with Struhar saying the Town of

Essex stepped up as did Amherstburg town councillor Molly Allaire, the latter helping to market the event on her social media.

“We had a very good turnout,” he said.

The Essex County Steam & Gas Museum presents its annual show Aug. 9-11 and Struhar said they are already preparing for it.

“We’’re just getting things ready,” he said.

The show’s theme in 2024 is “rare collectibles,” meaning “whatever you’ve got, bring it.”

The museum is planning a Mother’s Day eve ham and turkey dinner and a Father’s Day steak dinner as well. They also hope to construct an expansion to one of their buildings to house their growing collection of antique farm equipment.

For more information on the museum visit www. essexsteamandgasengine.com or call 519-726-0606.

Intro to Pilates Join us for a transformative experience of body and mind!

FREE! Ages 18+

Date: Saturday, March 16 Time: 10:00 am - 10:45 am Location: Libro Centre Community Room This 45 minute class walks you through the foundation of a strong Pilates practice. Learn to focus on the key principles, along with a few fundamental poses and cool down. Modifications, variations and progressions will be provided to allow space for people with all fitness backgrounds. No equipment required.

Lead by Certified Pilates Instructor, Simmie Sereg

amherstburg.ca/recreation recreation@amherstburg.ca (519) 736-5712

16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 21, 2024

www.rivertowntimes.com

Join us on social!

AmherstburgTownHall Aburg_TownHall

FEBRUARY

Wed 21 Thurs 22 Fri 23 Sat 24 Parks and Last Day to Call CANCELLED: Recreation Amherstburg White Goods Pickup Recycle will Committee 519-736-3664 be picked Accessibility up today, Meeting Advisory Saturday LAST DAY 5PM - Town Hall Committee Feb 24th Malden Park Meeting Malden Park Survey 5PM -Town Hall Survey talktheburg.ca talktheburg.ca Test your smoke NO Public alarm!

Skating Recycle 12:30-2:20PM

Is Black History Month

Sun

25

Mon 26 Special InEvery Sunday Camera Council Meeting 4PM amherstburg.ca/ Regular Council Meeting 6pm beactive Town Hall Walking Track @ Sunday The Libro Centre “Fun-day” Closed Turf Tots on 3-4:30pmToday The Indoor Turf 9-11AM FREE Mon 4 Senior Public Skating 6-6:50PM $4/person

Walking Track @ The Libro Centre

29 27 Wed 28 Thurs Business Licence Amherstburg Belle Vue DUE TODAY Environmental Resident Survey Advisory for Hospitality talktheburg.ca Committee Food/Liquor Meeting Service, Food 5PM -Town Hall Store, Last day for Tabacconist & Tranportation Vape Retail Master Plan surveys talktheburg.ca

Fri

Tues

9 8 Sat Beginner Skating 11:30-12:20PM 2024 Dog Tags Tag gs Youth Skating available online 4-4:50PM $4/person or LEARN MORE $12/family(max 5) about New Adult Drop-In Rens Pets Promo Hockey amherstburg.ca/ 8-9:50PM doglicensing $5/person NO Public Skating 12:30-2:20PM

Tues

Drainage Board Meeting 6PM - Town Hall

Wed 6 Thurs 7 Committee of Walking Track @ Adjustment The Libro Centre Meeting 8am - Town Hall Walking Track @ The Libro Centre Closed 3:30-4:30pmToday

Closed 3-4:30pmToday

Sun

5

Closed 3-4:30pmToday

3

AMHERSTBURG

BIZ DISCOVERY

1

Sat

Do you have your NO SKATING FOR business licence? Beginner, Youth, amherstburg.ca/ Public or Adult bizlicence Hockey TODAY

Fri

Attention Amherstburg businesses!

The town is committed to supporting ALL Amherstburg businesses in our community, whether commercial, industrial or agriculture, small or large.

Your voice matters! As part of our Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) project, we invite your organization to participate in our Biz Discovery Program Survey. The results from the survey will assist us in shaping the future of our business landscape.

All businesses who complete the survey have the option to be included on the Town’s business directory, receive future program initiatives, and will be showcased on the Town’s Facebook page.

To show our appreciation for your time, Amherstburg businesses that complete the survey will be entered into a draw and have the chance to win: 1/2 page ad in the River Town Times, or On air advertising with Amherstburg’s CKBG radio station.

2

Complete the Biz Discovery Survey TODAY!

talktheburg.ca/biz Deadline: March 31, 2024

For assistance or more information 519-736-0012 x2142 inquiries@amherstburg.ca

519-736-0012 • www.amherstburg.ca 271 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2A5